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Sprogyte L, Park M, Nureen L, Tedla N, Richardson A, Di Girolamo N. Development and characterization of a preclinical mouse model of alkali-induced limbal stem cell deficiency. Ocul Surf 2024; 34:329-340. [PMID: 39214186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) secondary to ocular surface alkali burn is a blinding condition that features corneal conjunctivalization. Mechanistic insights into its pathophysiology are lacking. Here, we developed a mouse model that recapitulates human disease to comprehensively delineate the clinicopathological features of a conjunctivalized cornea. METHODS LSCD was induced in the right eyes of 6-8-week-old C57BL/6 male and female mice (n = 151) by topical administration of 0.25N sodium hydroxide on the cornea. Uninjured left eyes served as controls. Clinical, histological, phenotypic, molecular, and immunological assessments were performed at multiple time-points over 6-months. RESULTS Clinically, alkali burn caused persistent corneal opacity (p = 0.0014), increased punctate staining (p = 0.0002), and reduced epithelial thickness (p = 0.0082) compared to controls. Total LSCD was confirmed in corneal whole mounts by loss of K12 protein (p < 0.0001) and mRNA expression (p = 0.0090). Instead, K8+, K13+, K15+ and MUC5AC+ conjunctival epithelia prevailed. 20 % of injured corneas developed islands of K12+ epithelia, suggesting epithelial transdifferentiation. Squamous metaplasia was detected in 50 % of injured corneas. Goblet cell density peaked early post-injury but decreased over time (p = 0.0047). Intraepithelial corneal basal nerve density remained reduced even at 6-months post-injury (p = 0.0487). CONCLUSIONS We developed and comprehensively characterized a preclinical mouse model of alkali-induced LSCD. Understanding the pathophysiological processes that transpire on the ocular surface in LSCD is key to discovering, testing, and advancing biological and pharmacological interventions that can be dispensed prior to or in conjunction with stem cell therapy to rehabilitate the cornea and restore vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Sprogyte
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Mijeong Park
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Lamia Nureen
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Nicodemus Tedla
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Alexander Richardson
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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Li Z, Böhringer D, Stachon T, Nastaranpour M, Fries FN, Seitz B, Ulrich M, Munteanu C, Langenbucher A, Szentmáry N. Culturing Limbal Epithelial Cells of Long-term Stored Corneal Donors (Organ Culture) In Vitro - A Stepwise Linear Regression Algorithm. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2024; 241:964-971. [PMID: 37130569 DOI: 10.1055/a-2084-7168] [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: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess various potential factors on human limbal epithelial cell (LEC) outgrowth in vitro using corneal donor tissue following long-term storage (organ culture) and a stepwise linear regression algorithm. METHODS Of 215 donors, 304 corneoscleral rings were used for our experiments. For digestion of the limbal tissue and isolation of the limbal epithelial cells, the tissue pieces were incubated with 4.0 mg/mL collagenase A at 37 °C with 95% relative humidity and a 5% CO2 atmosphere overnight. Thereafter, limbal epithelial cells were separated from limbal keratocytes using a 20-µm CellTricks filter. The separated human LECs were cultured in keratinocyte serum-free medium medium, 1% penicillin/streptomycin (P/S), 0.02% epidermal growth factor (EGF), and 0.3% bovine pituitary extract (BPE). The potential effect of donor age (covariate), postmortem time (covariate), medium time (covariate), size of the used corneoscleral ring (360°, 270°180°, 120°, 90°, less than 90°) (covariate), endothelial cell density (ECD) (covariate), gender (factor), number of culture medium changes during organ culture (factor), and origin of the donor (donating institution and storing institution, factor) on the limbal epithelial cell outgrowth was analyzed with a stepwise linear regression algorithm. RESULTS The rate of successful human LEC outgrowth was 37.5%. From the stepwise linear regression algorithm, we found out that the relevant influencing parameters on the LEC growth were intercept (p < 0.001), donor age (p = 0.002), number of culture medium changes during organ culture (p < 0.001), total medium time (p = 0.181), and size of the used corneoscleral ring (p = 0.007), as well as medium time × size of the corneoscleral ring (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS The success of LEC outgrowth increases with lower donor age, lower number of organ culture medium changes during storage, shorter medium time in organ culture, and smaller corneoscleral ring size. Our stepwise linear regression algorithm may help us in optimizing LEC cultures in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Li
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Böhringer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Tanja Stachon
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Mahsa Nastaranpour
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Norbert Fries
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Myriam Ulrich
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Nóra Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Congenital Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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Crabtree JR, Mulenga C, Tran K, Hussain A, Boente CS, Ali A, Feinberg K, Borschel GH. Corneal Neurotization: Essentials for The Facial Paralysis Surgeon. Facial Plast Surg 2024; 40:424-432. [PMID: 38378042 DOI: 10.1055/a-2272-6077] [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: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Deficits in corneal innervation lead to neurotrophic keratopathy (NK). NK is frequently associated with facial palsy, and corneal damage can be accelerated by facial palsy deficits. Corneal nerves are important regulators of limbal stem cells, which play a critical role in epithelial maintenance and healing. Nonsurgical treatments of NK have undergone recent innovation, and growth factors implicated in corneal epithelial renewal are a promising therapeutic avenue. However, surgical intervention with corneal neurotization (CN) remains the only definitive treatment of NK. CN involves the transfer of unaffected sensory donor nerve branches to the affected cornea, and a variety of donor nerves and approaches have been described. CN can be performed in a direct or indirect manner; employ the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, or great auricular nerves; and utilize autograft, allograft, or nerve transfer alone. Unfortunately, comparative studies of these factors are limited due to the procedure's novelty and varied recovery timelines after CN. Regardless of the chosen approach, CN has been shown to be a safe and effective procedure to restore corneal sensation and improve visual acuity in patients with NK.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Khoa Tran
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
| | - Arif Hussain
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
| | - Charline S Boente
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Gregory H Borschel
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana
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4
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Long Q, Huang C, Zhang L, Jiang H, Zhao S, Zhang L, Zheng X, Ou S, Gu H. A novel tissue-engineered corneal epithelium based on ultra-thin amniotic membrane and mesenchymal stem cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17407. [PMID: 39075142 PMCID: PMC11286932 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68219-8] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, in vitro cultured corneal epithelial transplantation is effective in treating limbal stem cell dysfunction (LSCD). Selecting carriers is crucial for constructing the corneal epithelium through tissue engineering. In this study, the traditional amniotic membrane (AM) was modified, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were inoculated into the ultra-thin amniotic membrane (UAM) stroma to construct a novel UAM-MSC tissue-engineered corneal epithelial carrier, that could effectively simulate the limbal stem cells (LSCs) microenvironment. The structure of different carriers cultured tissue-engineered corneal epithelium and the managed rabbit LSCD model corneas were observed through hematoxylin-eosin staining. Cell phenotypes were evaluated through fluorescence staining, Western blotting, and RT-qPCR. Additionally, cell junction genes and expression markers related to anti-neovascularization were evaluated using RT-qPCR. Corneal epithelium cell junctions were observed via an electron microscope. The tissue-engineered corneal epithelium culture medium was analyzed through mass spectrometry. Tissue-engineered corneal epithelial cells expanded by LSCs on UAM-MSCs had good transparency. Simultaneously, progenitor cell (K14, PNCA, p63) and corneal epithelial (PAX6) gene expression in tissue-engineered corneal epithelium constructed using UAM-MSCs was higher than that in corneal epithelial cells amplified by UAM and de-epithelialized amniotic membrane. Electron microscopy revealed that corneal epithelial cells grafted with UAM-MSCs were closely connected. In conclusion, the UAM-MSCs vector we constructed could better simulate the limbal microenvironment; the cultured tissue-engineered corneal epithelium had better transparency, anti-neovascularization properties, closer intercellular connections, and closer resemblance to the natural corneal epithelial tissue phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiurong Long
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Liying Zhang
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Su Zhao
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xueer Zheng
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Shangkun Ou
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
| | - Hao Gu
- Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
- The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No.9 Beijing Road, Yunyan District, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
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Rice G, Farrelly O, Huang S, Kuri P, Curtis E, Ohman L, Li N, Lengner C, Lee V, Rompolas P. Sox9 marks limbal stem cells and is required for asymmetric cell fate switch in the corneal epithelium. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.08.588195. [PMID: 38645161 PMCID: PMC11030424 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.08.588195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Adult tissues with high cellular turnover require a balance between stem cell renewal and differentiation, yet the mechanisms underlying this equilibrium are unclear. The cornea exhibits a polarized lateral flow of progenitors from the peripheral stem cell niche to the center; attributed to differences in cellular fate. To identify genes that are critical for regulating the asymmetric fates of limbal stem cells and their transient amplified progeny in the central cornea, we utilized an in vivo cell cycle reporter to isolate proliferating basal cells across the anterior ocular surface epithelium and performed single-cell transcriptional analysis. This strategy greatly increased the resolution and revealed distinct basal cell identities with unique expression profiles of structural genes and transcription factors. We focused on Sox9; a transcription factor implicated in stem cell regulation across various organs. Sox9 was found to be differentially expressed between limbal stem cells and their progeny in the central corneal. Lineage tracing analysis confirmed that Sox9 marks long-lived limbal stem cells and conditional deletion led to abnormal differentiation and squamous metaplasia in the central cornea. These data suggest a requirement for Sox9 for the switch to asymmetric fate and commitment toward differentiation, as transient cells exit the limbal niche. By inhibiting terminal differentiation of corneal progenitors and forcing them into perpetual symmetric divisions, we replicated the Sox9 loss-of-function phenotype. Our findings reveal an essential role for Sox9 for the spatial regulation of asymmetric fate in the corneal epithelium that is required to sustain tissue homeostasis.
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Bai X, Yang W, Zhao Y, Cao T, Lin R, Jiao P, Li H, Li H, Min J, Jia X, Zhang H, Fan W, Jia X, Bi Y, Liu W, Sun L. The extracellular cyclophilin A-integrin β2 complex as a therapeutic target of viral pneumonia. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1510-1525. [PMID: 38454605 PMCID: PMC11081868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.008] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The acute respiratory virus infection can induce uncontrolled inflammatory responses, such as cytokine storm and viral pneumonia, which are the major causes of death in clinical cases. Cyclophilin A (CypA) is mainly distributed in the cytoplasm of resting cells and released into the extracellular space in response to inflammatory stimuli. Extracellular CypA (eCypA) is upregulated and promotes inflammatory response in severe COVID-19 patients. However, how eCypA promotes virus-induced inflammatory response remains elusive. Here, we observe that eCypA is induced by influenza A and B viruses and SARS-CoV-2 in cells, mice, or patients. Anti-CypA mAb reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines production, leukocytes infiltration, and lung injury in virus-infected mice. Mechanistically, eCypA binding to integrin β2 triggers integrin activation, thereby facilitating leukocyte trafficking and cytokines production via the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/GTPase and FAK/ERK/P65 pathways, respectively. These functions are suppressed by the anti-CypA mAb that specifically blocks eCypA-integrin β2 interaction. Overall, our findings reveal that eCypA-integrin β2 signaling mediates virus-induced inflammatory response, indicating that eCypA is a potential target for antibody therapy against viral pneumonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Bai
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518107, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wenxian Yang
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518107, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuna Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources & Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Tongtong Cao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing 100045, China
| | - Runshan Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Pengtao Jiao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Heqiao Li
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518107, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Huizi Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Min
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Jia
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - He Zhang
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518107, China
| | - Wenhui Fan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaojuan Jia
- The Biological Safety level-3 (BSL-3) Laboratory of Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuhai Bi
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; The Biological Safety level-3 (BSL-3) Laboratory of Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wenjun Liu
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518107, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources & Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lei Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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Sahay P, Behbehani M, Filippini P, Bruti G, Townsend M, McKean R, Dua HS. A Biosynthetic Alternative to Human Amniotic Membrane for Use in Ocular Surface Surgery. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:3. [PMID: 38696180 PMCID: PMC11077906 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.5.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The biosynthetic Symatix membrane (SM) was developed to replace fresh human amniotic membrane (hAM) in ocular surgical applications. The purpose of this study was to test the biocompatibility of the SM with human limbus-derived epithelial cells with regard to their physical and biological properties. Methods Different physical properties of SM were tested ex vivo by simulation on human corneas. In vitro, primary limbal epithelial cells from limbal explants were used to test biological properties such as cell migration, proliferation, metabolic activity, and limbal epithelial cell markers on the SM, hAM, and freeze-dried amniotic membrane (FDAM). Results The surgical handleability of the SM was equivalent to that of the hAM. Ultrastructural and histological studies demonstrated that epithelial cells on the SM had the typical tightly apposed, polygonal, corneal epithelial cell morphology. The epithelial cells were well stratified on the SM, unlike on the hAM and FDAM. Rapid wound healing occurred on the SM within 3 days. Immunofluorescence studies showed positive expression of CK-19, Col-1, laminin, ZO-1, FN, and p-63 on the SM, plastic, and FDAM compared to positive expression of ZO-1, Col-1, laminin, FN, and p63 and negative expression of CK-19 in the hAM. Conclusions These results indicate that the SM is a better substrate for limbal epithelial cell migration, proliferation, and tight junction formation. Altogether, the SM can provide a suitable alternative to the hAM for surgical application in sight-restoring operations. Translational Relevance The hAM, currently widely used in ocular surface surgery, has numerous variations and limitations. The biocompatibility of corneal epithelial cells with the SM demonstrated in this study suggests that it can be a viable substitute for the hAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prity Sahay
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Perla Filippini
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | - Rob McKean
- The Electrospinning Company, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Harminder S. Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
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8
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Verma S, Lin X, Coulson-Thomas VJ. The Potential Reversible Transition between Stem Cells and Transient-Amplifying Cells: The Limbal Epithelial Stem Cell Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:748. [PMID: 38727284 PMCID: PMC11083486 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Stem cells (SCs) undergo asymmetric division, producing transit-amplifying cells (TACs) with increased proliferative potential that move into tissues and ultimately differentiate into a specialized cell type. Thus, TACs represent an intermediary state between stem cells and differentiated cells. In the cornea, a population of stem cells resides in the limbal region, named the limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs). As LESCs proliferate, they generate TACs that move centripetally into the cornea and differentiate into corneal epithelial cells. Upon limbal injury, research suggests a population of progenitor-like cells that exists within the cornea can move centrifugally into the limbus, where they dedifferentiate into LESCs. Herein, we summarize recent advances made in understanding the mechanism that governs the differentiation of LESCs into TACs, and thereafter, into corneal epithelial cells. We also outline the evidence in support of the existence of progenitor-like cells in the cornea and whether TACs could represent a population of cells with progenitor-like capabilities within the cornea. Furthermore, to gain further insights into the dynamics of TACs in the cornea, we outline the most recent findings in other organ systems that support the hypothesis that TACs can dedifferentiate into SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhir Verma
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110078, India
| | - Xiao Lin
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
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9
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Davidson KC, Sung M, Brown KD, Contet J, Belluschi S, Hamel R, Moreno-Moral A, Dos Santos RL, Gough J, Polo JM, Daniell M, Parfitt GJ. Single nuclei transcriptomics of the in situ human limbal stem cell niche. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6749. [PMID: 38514716 PMCID: PMC10957941 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57242-4] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium acts as a barrier to pathogens entering the eye; corneal epithelial cells are continuously renewed by uni-potent, quiescent limbal stem cells (LSCs) located at the limbus, where the cornea transitions to conjunctiva. There has yet to be a consensus on LSC markers and their transcriptome profile is not fully understood, which may be due to using cadaveric tissue without an intact stem cell niche for transcriptomics. In this study, we addressed this problem by using single nuclei RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) on healthy human limbal tissue that was immediately snap-frozen after excision from patients undergoing cataract surgery. We identified the quiescent LSCs as a sub-population of corneal epithelial cells with a low level of total transcript counts. Moreover, TP63, KRT15, CXCL14, and ITGβ4 were found to be highly expressed in LSCs and transiently amplifying cells (TACs), which constitute the corneal epithelial progenitor populations at the limbus. The surface markers SLC6A6 and ITGβ4 could be used to enrich human corneal epithelial cell progenitors, which were also found to specifically express the putative limbal progenitor cell markers MMP10 and AC093496.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn C Davidson
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Karl D Brown
- Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julian Contet
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Julian Gough
- Mogrify Limited, Cambridge, England, UK
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, England, UK
| | - Jose M Polo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Mogrify Limited, Cambridge, England, UK.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
- Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
- The South Australian Immunogenomics Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Mark Daniell
- Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA), Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Geraint J Parfitt
- Mogrify Limited, Cambridge, England, UK.
- Ophthalmology Discovery Research, AbbVie, Irvine, CA, USA.
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10
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Derakhshani A, Taheri F, Geraminia N, Mohammadipoor-ghasemabad L, Sabzalizadeh M, Vafee F, Afarinesh MR, Sheibani V. Amelioration of behavioral and histological impairments in somatosensory cortex injury rats by limbal mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. Transl Neurosci 2024; 15:20220346. [PMID: 39156044 PMCID: PMC11330157 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2022-0346] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cortical lesions can cause major sensory and motor impairments, representing a significant challenge in neuroscience and clinical medicine. Limbal mesenchymal stem cells (LMSCs), renowned for their remarkable ability to proliferate and distinct characteristics within the corneal epithelium, offer a promising opportunity for regenerative treatments. This study aimed to assess whether the transplantation of LMSCs could improve tactile ability in rats with lesions of the barrel cortex. Methods In this experimental study, we divided 21 rats into three groups: a control group, a lesion group with cortical cold lesion induction but no stem cell treatment, and a group receiving LMSC transplantation following cold lesion induction. We conducted 3-week sensory assessments using a texture discrimination test and an open-field test. We also performed Nissl staining to assess changes on the cellular level. Results Rats in the LMSC transplantation group demonstrated significant improvements in their ability to discrimination textures during the second and third weeks compared to those in the lesion group. The open-field test results showed an increased exploratory behavior of rats in the LMSC transplantation group by the third week compared to the lesion group. Additionally, Nissl staining revealed cellular alterations in the damaged cortex, with a significant distinction observed between rats in the LMSCs and lesion group. Conclusion The findings suggest that LMSC transplantation enhances sensory recovery in rats with cortical lesions, particularly their ability to discriminate textures. LMSC transplantation benefits brain tissue reparation after a cold lesion on the somatosensory cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Derakhshani
- Hydatid Disease Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Farahnaz Taheri
- Neurology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Geraminia
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 76198-13159, Kerman, Iran
| | - Lily Mohammadipoor-ghasemabad
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 76198-13159, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Sabzalizadeh
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 76198-13159, Kerman, Iran
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Vafee
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Afarinesh
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 76198-13159, Kerman, Iran
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Vahid Sheibani
- Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 76198-13159, Kerman, Iran
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmachology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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11
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Zekušić M, Bujić Mihica M, Skoko M, Vukušić K, Risteski P, Martinčić J, Tolić IM, Bendelja K, Ramić S, Dolenec T, Vrgoč Zimić I, Puljić D, Petric Vicković I, Iveković R, Batarilo I, Prosenc Zmrzljak U, Hoffmeister A, Vučemilo T. New characterization and safety evaluation of human limbal stem cells used in clinical application: fidelity of mitotic process and mitotic spindle morphologies. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:368. [PMID: 38093301 PMCID: PMC10720168 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03586-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are crucial for the regeneration of the corneal epithelium in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Thus, LSCs during cultivation in vitro should be in highly homogeneous amounts, while potency and expression of stemness without tumorigenesis would be desirable. Therefore, further characterization and safety evaluation of engineered limbal grafts is required to provide safe and high-quality therapeutic applications. METHODS After in vitro expansion, LSCs undergo laboratory characterization in a single-cell suspension, cell culture, and in limbal grafts before transplantation. Using a clinically applicable protocol, the data collected on LSCs at passage 1 were summarized, including: identity (cell size, morphology); potency (yield, viability, population doubling time, colony-forming efficiency); expression of putative stem cell markers through flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Then, mitotic chromosome stability and normal mitotic outcomes were explored by using live-cell imaging. Finally, impurities, bacterial endotoxins and sterility were determined. RESULTS Expression of the stemness marker p63 in single-cell suspension and in cell culture showed high values by different methods. Limbal grafts showed p63-positive cells (78.7 ± 9.4%), Ki67 proliferation (41.7 ± 15.9%), while CK3 was negative. Impurity with 3T3 feeder cells and endotoxins was minimized. We presented mitotic spindles with a length of 11.40 ± 0.54 m and a spindle width of 8.05 ± 0.55 m as new characterization in LSC culture. Additionally, live-cell imaging of LSCs (n = 873) was performed, and only a small fraction < 2.5% of aberrant interphase cells was observed; 2.12 ± 2.10% of mitotic spindles exhibited a multipolar phenotype during metaphase, and 3.84 ± 3.77% of anaphase cells had a DNA signal present within the spindle midzone, indicating a chromosome bridge or lagging chromosome phenotype. CONCLUSION This manuscript provides, for the first time, detailed characterization of the parameters of fidelity of the mitotic process and mitotic spindle morphologies of LSCs used in a direct clinical application. Our data show that p63-positive CK3-negative LSCs grown in vitro for clinical purposes undergo mitotic processes with extremely high fidelity, suggesting high karyotype stability. This finding confirms LSCs as a high-quality and safe therapy for eye regeneration in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Zekušić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Bujić Mihica
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marija Skoko
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kruno Vukušić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Patrik Risteski
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Martinčić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva M Tolić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Krešo Bendelja
- Center for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, Laboratory of Immunology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Snježana Ramić
- Department of Oncological Pathology and Clinical Cytology 'Ljudevit Jurak', University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tamara Dolenec
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Vrgoč Zimić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dominik Puljić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivanka Petric Vicković
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Iveković
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivanka Batarilo
- Department of Microbiology, Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Uršula Prosenc Zmrzljak
- Molecular Biology Department, BIA Separations CRO, Labena d.O.O, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Labena d.o.o, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Tiha Vučemilo
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
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12
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Lee YF, Yong DWW, Manotosh R. A Review of Contact Lens-Induced Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1490. [PMID: 38132316 PMCID: PMC10740976 DOI: 10.3390/biology12121490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition caused by the dysfunction and destruction of stem cells, stem cell precursors and limbal cell niche in the corneal epithelium, leading to severe conjunctivalization of the cornea. Etiologies for LSCD span from congenital (aniridia), traumatic (chemical or thermal injuries), autoimmune (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) and iatrogenic disease to contact lens (CL) wear. Of these, CL wear is the least understood and is often a subclinical cause of LSCD. Even with recent advances in LSCD research, limitations persist in establishing the pathogenesis and treatment guidelines for CL-induced LSCD. A literature search was conducted to include original articles containing patients with CL-induced LSCD. This review will critically discuss the complex pathophysiology behind CL-induced LSCD, the underlying risk factors and epidemiology of the disease as well as methods to obtain a diagnosis. Various treatment options will be reviewed based on proposed treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yhu Fhei Lee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Dayna Wei Wei Yong
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Ray Manotosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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13
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Polisetti N, Martin G, Ulrich E, Glegola M, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Influence of Organ Culture on the Characteristics of the Human Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16856. [PMID: 38069177 PMCID: PMC10706739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ culture storage techniques for corneoscleral limbal (CSL) tissue have improved the quality of corneas for transplantation and allow for longer storage times. Cultured limbal tissue has been used for stem cell transplantation to treat limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) as well as for research purposes to assess homeostasis mechanisms in the limbal stem cell niche. However, the effects of organ culture storage conditions on the quality of limbal niche components are less well described. Therefore, in this study, the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of organ-cultured limbal tissue are investigated and compared to fresh limbal tissues by means of light and electron microscopy. Organ-cultured limbal tissues showed signs of deterioration, such as edema, less pronounced basement membranes, and loss of the most superficial layers of the epithelium. In comparison to the fresh limbal epithelium, organ-cultured limbal epithelium showed signs of ongoing proliferative activity (more Ki-67+ cells) and exhibited an altered limbal epithelial phenotype with a loss of N-cadherin and desmoglein expression as well as a lack of precise staining patterns for cytokeratin ((CK)14, CK17/19, CK15). The analyzed extracellular matrix composition was mainly intact (collagen IV, fibronectin, laminin chains) except for Tenascin-C, whose expression was increased in organ-cultured limbal tissue. Nonetheless, the expression patterns of cell-matrix adhesion proteins varied in organ-cultured limbal tissue compared to fresh limbal tissue. A decrease in the number of melanocytes (Melan-A+ cells) and Langerhans cells (HLA-DR+, CD1a+, CD18+) was observed in the organ-cultured limbal tissue. The organ culture-induced alterations of the limbal epithelial stem cell niche might hamper its use in the treatment of LSCD as well as in research studies. In contrast, reduced numbers of donor-derived Langerhans cells seem associated with better clinical outcomes. However, there is a need to consider the preferential use of fresh CSL for limbal transplants and to look at ways of improving the limbal stem cell properties of stored CSL tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eva Ulrich
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mateusz Glegola
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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14
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Lin S, Cai M, Zhang L, Mao Y, Wu H, Liu X, Li Y, Liang M, Cheng X, Yu F, He H, Zong R, Wu H, Liu Z, Ou S, Li W. Limbal Stem Cell Dysfunction Induced by Severe Dry Eye via Activation of the p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1863-1878. [PMID: 37634709 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Severe dry eye (SDE) can cause grievous damage to the ocular surface and result in vision impairment and even blindness. To investigate the fate of limbal stem cells in SDE and the underlying mechanism, the current study established an SDE rat model by removing the extraorbital and infraorbital lacrimal glands and maintaining them in a low-humidity environment. One month after the surgery, aqueous tear secretion was reduced dramatically, blood vessels invaded into the central cornea, and inflammatory cells infiltrated into the limbal stroma. The expressions of keratin 12 and paired box gene 6 were down-regulated dramatically, while those of keratin 10, small proline-rich protein 1b, and mucin 5AC were up-regulated in the corneal epithelium of the SDE rats. Cell proliferation in the limbal epithelium was up-regulated, while the stem/progenitor marker adenosine 5'-triphosphate-binding cassette member 2 and the limbal epithelial colony-forming efficiency were decreased in the SDE condition. Furthermore, the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway was activated in the limbal corneal epithelium of SDE rats. The abnormal differentiation and stemness loss in the corneal epithelium could be reversed upon treatment with a p38 inhibitor in a SDE in vivo model and in vitro hyperosmolar corneal epithelial culture conditions. These data suggest that SDE can lead to limbal stem cell dysfunction, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway activation plays an essential role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijie Lin
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Minqing Cai
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Yi Mao
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Han Wu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Yixuan Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Minghui Liang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Xinxuan Cheng
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Hui He
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Rongrong Zong
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China
| | - Huping Wu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Corneal & Ocular Surface Diseases, Xiamen, China
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Corneal & Ocular Surface Diseases, Xiamen, China; Xiang'an Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Shangkun Ou
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Corneal & Ocular Surface Diseases, Xiamen, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University and affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Corneal & Ocular Surface Diseases, Xiamen, China; Xiang'an Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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15
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Kauppila M, Mörö A, Valle-Delgado JJ, Ihalainen T, Sukki L, Puistola P, Kallio P, Ilmarinen T, Österberg M, Skottman H. Toward Corneal Limbus In Vitro Model: Regulation of hPSC-LSC Phenotype by Matrix Stiffness and Topography During Cell Differentiation Process. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301396. [PMID: 37449943 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
A functional limbal epithelial stem cells (LSC) niche is a vital element in the regular renewal of the corneal epithelium by LSCs and maintenance of good vision. However, little is known about its unique structure and mechanical properties on LSC regulation, creating a significant gap in development of LSC-based therapies. Herein, the effect of mechanical and architectural elements of the niche on human pluripotent derived LSCs (hPSC-LSC) phenotype and growth is investigated in vitro. Specifically, three formulations of polyacrylamide gels with different controlled stiffnesses are used for culture and characterization of hPSC-LSCs from different stages of differentiation. In addition, limbal mimicking topography in polydimethylsiloxane is utilized for culturing hPSC-LSCs at early time point of differentiation. For comparison, the expression of selected key proteins of the corneal cells is analyzed in their native environment through whole mount staining of human donor corneas. The results suggest that mechanical response and substrate preference of the cells is highly dependent on their developmental stage. In addition, data indicate that cells may carry possible mechanical memory from previous culture matrix, both highlighting the importance of mechanical design of a functional in vitro limbus model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Kauppila
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Anni Mörö
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Juan José Valle-Delgado
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, 02150, Finland
| | - Teemu Ihalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Lassi Sukki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Paula Puistola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Pasi Kallio
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Monika Österberg
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, 02150, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
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16
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Feinberg K, Tajdaran K, Mirmoeini K, Daeschler SC, Henriquez MA, Stevens KE, Mulenga CM, Hussain A, Hamrah P, Ali A, Gordon T, Borschel GH. The Role of Sensory Innervation in Homeostatic and Injury-Induced Corneal Epithelial Renewal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12615. [PMID: 37628793 PMCID: PMC10454376 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the window through which we see the world. Corneal clarity is required for vision, and blindness occurs when the cornea becomes opaque. The cornea is covered by unique transparent epithelial cells that serve as an outermost cellular barrier bordering between the cornea and the external environment. Corneal sensory nerves protect the cornea from injury by triggering tearing and blink reflexes, and are also thought to regulate corneal epithelial renewal via unknown mechanism(s). When protective corneal sensory innervation is absent due to infection, trauma, intracranial tumors, surgery, or congenital causes, permanent blindness results from repetitive epithelial microtraumas and failure to heal. The condition is termed neurotrophic keratopathy (NK), with an incidence of 5:10,000 people worldwide. In this report, we review the currently available therapeutic solutions for NK and discuss the progress in our understanding of how the sensory nerves induce corneal epithelial renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Feinberg
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kiana Tajdaran
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Kaveh Mirmoeini
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Simeon C. Daeschler
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, BG Trauma Hospital, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Heidelberg, 67071 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Mario A. Henriquez
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Katelyn E. Stevens
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Chilando M. Mulenga
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Arif Hussain
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
| | - Tessa Gordon
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Gregory H. Borschel
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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17
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Sumioka T, Matsumoto KI, Reinach PS, Saika S. Tenascins and osteopontin in biological response in cornea. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:131-149. [PMID: 37209968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The structural composition, integrity and regular curvature of the cornea contribute to the maintenance of its transparency and vision. Disruption of its integrity caused by injury results in scarring, inflammation and neovascularization followed by losses in transparency. These sight compromising effects is caused by dysfunctional corneal resident cell responses induced by the wound healing process. Upregulation of growth factors/cytokines and neuropeptides affect development of aberrant behavior. These factors trigger keratocytes to first transform into activated fibroblasts and then to myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts express extracellular matrix components for tissue repair and contract the tissue to facilitate wound closure. Proper remodeling following primary repair is critical for restoration of transparency and visual function. Extracellular matrix components contributing to the healing process are divided into two groups; a group of classical tissue structural components and matrix macromolecules that modulate cell behaviors/activities besides being integrated into the matrix structure. The latter components are designated as matricellular proteins. Their functionality is elicited through mechanisms which modulate the scaffold integrity, cell behaviors, activation/inactivation of either growth factors or cytoplasmic signaling regulation. We discuss here the functional roles of matricellular proteins in mediating injury-induced corneal tissue repair. The roles are described of major matricellular proteins, which include tenascin C, tenascin X and osteopontin. Focus is directed towards dealing with their roles in modulating individual activities of wound healing-related growth factors, e. g., transforming growth factor β (TGF β). Modulation of matricellular protein functions could encompass a potential novel strategy to improve the outcome of injury-induced corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Sumioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, 811-1 Kimiidera, 641-0012, Japan.
| | - Ken-Ichi Matsumoto
- Department of Biosignaling and Radioisotope Experiment, Interdisciplinary Center for Science Research, Head Office for Research and Academic Information, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, 693-8501, Japan
| | - Peter Sol Reinach
- Department of Biological. Sciences SUNY Optometry, New York, NY, 10036, USA
| | - Shizuya Saika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, 811-1 Kimiidera, 641-0012, Japan
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Bisevac J, Katta K, Petrovski G, Moe MC, Noer A. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Activation Induces Differentiation in Human Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells Cultured Ex Vivo. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1829. [PMID: 37509479 PMCID: PMC10377110 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Human limbal epithelial stem cells (hLESCs) continuously replenish lost or damaged human corneal epithelial cells. The percentage of stem/progenitor cells in autologous ex vivo expanded tissue is essential for the long-term success of transplantation in patients with limbal epithelial stem cell deficiency. However, the molecular processes governing the stemness and differentiation state of hLESCs remain uncertain. Therefore, we sought to explore the impact of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation on hLESCs by treating ex vivo expanded hLESC cultures with GSK-3 inhibitor LY2090314. Real-time qRT-PCR and microarray data reveal the downregulation of stemness (TP63), progenitor (SOX9), quiescence (CEBPD), and proliferation (MKI67, PCNA) genes and the upregulation of genes for differentiation (CX43, KRT3) in treated- compared to non-treated samples. The pathway activation was shown by AXIN2 upregulation and enhanced levels of accumulated β-catenin. Immunocytochemistry and Western blot confirmed the findings for most of the above-mentioned markers. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling profile demonstrated an upregulation of WNT1, WNT3, WNT5A, WNT6, and WNT11 gene expression and a downregulation for WNT7A and DKK1 in the treated samples. No significant differences were found for WNT2, WNT16B, WIF1, and DKK2 gene expression. Overall, our results demonstrate that activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in ex vivo expanded hLESCs governs the cells towards differentiation and reduces proliferation and stem cell maintenance capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovana Bisevac
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4956 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Kirankumar Katta
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, Hf Rikshospitalet, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4956 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Carstens Moe
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4956 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Agate Noer
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4956 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
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19
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Netto ART, Hrusa MD, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Schnichels S, Hurst J. Two Methods for the Isolation and Cultivation of Porcine Primary Corneal Cells. Methods Protoc 2023; 6:mps6030050. [PMID: 37218910 DOI: 10.3390/mps6030050] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In ophthalmic research, there is a strong need for in vitro corneal cell models. Here, we describe different protocols for the cultivation of primary corneal cells that were isolated from porcine eyes. This primary cell culture can be used to test new therapeutic options for corneal diseases, such as dry eye disease, traumatic injuries, or corneal infections, and to study limbal epithelial stem cell (LESC) expansion. Two different isolation methods were performed: the outgrowth and the collagenase method. To perform the outgrowth protocol, small explants of the corneal limbus were generated and incubated in culture flasks in an incubator for 4-5 weeks. Regarding the collagenase method, to extract corneal cells, porcine corneas were removed, cut into small pieces, and incubated with collagenase. After incubation and centrifugation, the cells were seeded in 6- or 12-well plates and incubated in an incubator for 2-3 weeks. The differences between corneal cell cultivation with fetal bovine serum (FBS) and without it are also discussed. Therefore, the main advantages of the outgrowth method are that it requires fewer porcine eyes, and it takes less time to be performed compared to the collagenase method. On the other hand, with the collagenase method, mature cells are obtained earlier, at about 2 to 3 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Rocha Teixeira Netto
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Clinical Research University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marc Dieter Hrusa
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Clinical Research University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Karl-Ulrich Bartz-Schmidt
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Clinical Research University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sven Schnichels
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Clinical Research University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - José Hurst
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Clinical Research University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
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20
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Hsueh YJ, Meir YJJ, Hsiao HY, Cheng CM, Ma HKD, Wu WC, Chen HC. Transcription Factor ATF3 Participates in DeltaNp63-Mediated Proliferation of Corneal Epithelial Cells. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13040700. [PMID: 37109086 PMCID: PMC10142479 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13040700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying corneal epithelial cell (CEC) proliferation in vitro may provide the means to boost CEC production in cell therapy for ocular disorders. The transcription factor ΔNp63 plays a crucial role in the proliferation of CECs, but the underlying mechanisms is yet to be elucidated. TP63 and ΔNp63 are encoded by the TP63 gene via alternative promoters. We previously reported that both ΔNp63 and activating transcription factor (ATF3) are substantially expressed in cultured CECs, but the regulatory relationship between ΔNp63 and ATF3 is unknown. In the present study, we found that ΔNp63 increased ATF3 expression and ATF3 promoter activity in cultured CECs. The deletion of the p63 binding core site reduced ATF3 promoter activity. CECs overexpressing ATF3 exhibited significantly greater proliferation than control CECs. ATF3 knockdown suppressed the ΔNp63-induced increase in cell proliferation. Overexpression of ATF3 in CECs significantly elevated protein and mRNA levels of cyclin D. The protein levels of keratin 3/14, integrin β1, and involucrin did not differ between ATF3-overexpressing CECs, ATF3-downregulated CECs, and control cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that ΔNp63 increases CEC proliferation via the ΔNp63/ATF3/CDK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jen Hsueh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Yaa-Jyuhn James Meir
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Yi Hsiao
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Min Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Kang David Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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21
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Polisetti N, Martin G, Cristina Schmitz HR, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Characterization of Porcine Ocular Surface Epithelial Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087543. [PMID: 37108705 PMCID: PMC10145510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087543] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The porcine ocular surface is used as a model of the human ocular surface; however, a detailed characterization of the porcine ocular surface has not been documented. This is due, in part, to the scarcity of antibodies produced specifically against the porcine ocular surface cell types or structures. We performed a histological and immunohistochemical investigation on frozen and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded ocular surface tissue from domestic pigs using a panel of 41 different antibodies related to epithelial progenitor/differentiation phenotypes, extracellular matrix and associated molecules, and various niche cell types. Our observations suggested that the Bowman's layer is not evident in the cornea; the deep invaginations of the limbal epithelium in the limbal zone are analogous to the limbal interpalisade crypts of human limbal tissue; and the presence of goblet cells in the bulbar conjunctiva. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that the epithelial progenitor markers cytokeratin (CK)15, CK14, p63α, and P-cadherin were expressed in both the limbal and conjunctival basal epithelium, whereas the basal cells of the limbal and conjunctival epithelium did not stain for CK3, CK12, E-cadherin, and CK13. Antibodies detecting marker proteins related to the extracellular matrix (collagen IV, Tenascin-C), cell-matrix adhesion (β-dystroglycan, integrin α3 and α6), mesenchymal cells (vimentin, CD90, CD44), neurons (neurofilament), immune cells (HLA-ABC; HLA-DR, CD1, CD4, CD14), vasculature (von Willebrand factor), and melanocytes (SRY-homeobox-10, human melanoma black-45, Tyrosinase) on the normal human ocular surface demonstrated similar immunoreactivity on the normal porcine ocular surface. Only a few antibodies (directed against N-cadherin, fibronectin, agrin, laminin α3 and α5, melan-A) appeared unreactive on porcine tissues. Our findings characterize the main immunohistochemical properties of the porcine ocular surface and provide a morphological and immunohistochemical basis useful to research using porcine models. Furthermore, the analyzed porcine ocular structures are similar to those of humans, confirming the potential usefulness of pig eyes to study ocular surface physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Heidi R Cristina Schmitz
- CEMT-Freiburg, Experimental Surgery, Hospital-Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Str. 66, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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22
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A Novel Technique of Amniotic Membrane Preparation Mimicking Limbal Epithelial Crypts Enhances the Number of Progenitor Cells upon Expansion. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050738. [PMID: 36899873 PMCID: PMC10001367 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050738] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate whether a novel technique of human amniotic membrane (HAM) preparation that mimics the crypts in the limbus enhances the number of progenitor cells cultured ex vivo. The HAMs were sutured on polyester membrane (1) standardly, to obtain a flat HAM surface, or (2) loosely, achieving the radial folding to mimic crypts in the limbus. Immunohistochemistry was used to demonstrate a higher number of cells positive for progenitor markers p63α (37.56 ± 3.34% vs. 62.53 ± 3.32%, p = 0.01) and SOX9 (35.53 ± 0.96% vs. 43.23 ± 2.32%, p = 0.04), proliferation marker Ki-67 (8.43 ± 0.38 % vs. 22.38 ± 1.95 %, p = 0.002) in the crypt-like HAMs vs. flat HAMs, while no difference was found for the quiescence marker CEBPD (22.99 ± 2.96% vs. 30.49 ± 3.33 %, p = 0.17). Most of the cells stained negative for the corneal epithelial differentiation marker KRT3/12, and some were positive for N-cadherin in the crypt-like structures, but there was no difference in staining for E-cadherin and CX43 in crypt-like HAMs vs. flat HAMs. This novel HAM preparation method enhanced the number of progenitor cells expanded in the crypt-like HAM compared to cultures on the conventional flat HAM.
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23
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Zdraveva E, Bendelja K, Bočkor L, Dolenec T, Mijović B. Detection of Limbal Stem Cells Adhered to Melt Electrospun Silk Fibroin and Gelatin-Modified Polylactic Acid Scaffolds. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15030777. [PMID: 36772078 PMCID: PMC9919663 DOI: 10.3390/polym15030777] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are of paramount importance in corneal epithelial tissue repair. The cornea becomes opaque in case of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), which may cause serious damage to the ocular visual function. There are many techniques to restore damaged epithelium, one of which is the transplantation of healthy cultured LSCs, usually onto a human amniotic membrane or onto bio-based engineered scaffolds in recent years. In this study, melt electrospun polylactic acid (PLA) was modified by silk fibroin or gelatin and further cultured with LSCs originating from three different donors. In terms of physicochemical properties, both modifications slightly increased PLA scaffold porosity (with a significantly larger pore area for the PLA/gelatin) and improved the scaffolds' swelling percentage, as well as their biodegradation rate. In terms of the scaffold application function, the aim was to detect/visualize whether LSCs adhered to the scaffolds and to further determine cell viability (total number), as well as to observe p63 and CK3 expressions in the LSCs. LSCs were attached to the surface of microfibers, showing flattened conformations or 3D spheres in the formation of colonies or agglomerations, respectively. All scaffolds showed the ability to bind the cells onto the surface of individual microfibers (PLA and PLA/gelatin), or in between the microfibers (PLA/silk fibroin), with the latter showing the most intense red fluorescence of the stained cells. All scaffolds proved to be biocompatible, while the PLA/silk fibroin scaffolds showed the highest 98% viability of 2.9 × 106 LSCs, with more than 98% of p63 and less than 20% of CK3 expressions in the LSCs, thus confirming the support of their growth, proliferation and corneal epithelial differentiation. The results show the potential of these bio-engineered scaffolds to be used as an alternative clinical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilija Zdraveva
- Department of Fundamental Natural and Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Krešo Bendelja
- Center for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Luka Bočkor
- Center for Applied Bioanthropology, Institute for Anthropological Research, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tamara Dolenec
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Budimir Mijović
- Department of Fundamental Natural and Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence:
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24
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Tavakkoli F, Eleiwa TK, Elhusseiny AM, Damala M, Rai AK, Cheraqpour K, Ansari MH, Doroudian M, H Keshel S, Soleimani M, Djalilian AR, Sangwan VS, Singh V. Corneal stem cells niche and homeostasis impacts in regenerative medicine; concise review. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023:11206721221150065. [PMID: 36604831 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221150065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The limbal stem cells niche (LSCN) is an optimal microenvironment that provides the limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) and strictly regulates their proliferation and differentiation. Disturbing the LSCN homeostasis can lead to limbal stem cell dysfunction (LSCD) and subsequent ocular surface aberrations, such as corneal stromal inflammation, persistent epithelial defects, corneal neovascularisation, lymphangiogenesis, corneal opacification, and conjunctivalization. As ocular surface disorders are considered the second main cause of blindness, it becomes crucial to explore different therapeutic strategies for restoring the functions of the LSCN. A major limitation of corneal transplantation is the current shortage of donor tissue to meet the requirements worldwide. In this context, it becomes mandatory to find an alternative regenerative medicine, such as using cultured limbal epithelial/stromal stem cells, inducing the production of corneal like cells by using other sources of stem cells, and using tissue engineering methods aiming to produce the three-dimensional (3D) printed cornea. Limbal epithelial stem cells have been considered the magic potion for eye treatment. Epithelial and stromal stem cells in the limbal niche hold the responsibility of replenishing the corneal epithelium. These stem cells are being used for transplantation to maintain corneal epithelial integrity and ultimately sustain optimal vision. In this review, we summarised the characteristics of the LSCN and their current and future roles in restoring corneal homeostasis in eyes with LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tavakkoli
- Department of Community Health, College of Health Technology, Cihan University, Erbil, Iraq.,SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India.,Centre for Genetic Disorders, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Taher K Eleiwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman M Elhusseiny
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Mukesh Damala
- SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India.,School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Amit K Rai
- Centre for Genetic Disorders, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Kasra Cheraqpour
- Translational Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, 48439Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Ansari
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Labbafinejad Medical Center, 556492Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Doroudian
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, 145440Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed H Keshel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, 556492Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soleimani
- Department of Ophthalmology, 159636Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ali R Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology, 159636Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Vivek Singh
- SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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25
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Ying PX, Fu M, Huang C, Li ZH, Mao QY, Fu S, Jia XH, Cao YC, Hong LB, Cai LY, Guo X, Liu RB, Meng FK, Yi GG. Profile of biological characterizations and clinical application of corneal stem/progenitor cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:777-797. [PMID: 36483848 PMCID: PMC9724387 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i11.777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal stem/progenitor cells are typical adult stem/progenitor cells. The human cornea covers the front of the eyeball, which protects the eye from the outside environment while allowing vision. The location and function demand the cornea to maintain its transparency and to continuously renew its epithelial surface by replacing injured or aged cells through a rapid turnover process in which corneal stem/progenitor cells play an important role. Corneal stem/progenitor cells include mainly corneal epithelial stem cells, corneal endothelial cell progenitors and corneal stromal stem cells. Since the discovery of corneal epithelial stem cells (also known as limbal stem cells) in 1971, an increasing number of markers for corneal stem/progenitor cells have been proposed, but there is no consensus regarding the definitive markers for them. Therefore, the identification, isolation and cultivation of these cells remain challenging without a unified approach. In this review, we systematically introduce the profile of biological characterizations, such as anatomy, characteristics, isolation, cultivation and molecular markers, and clinical applications of the three categories of corneal stem/progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Xi Ying
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chang Huang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Li
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Shock and Microcirculation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510550, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qing-Yi Mao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng Fu
- Hengyang Medical School, The University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xu-Hui Jia
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yu-Chen Cao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Bing Hong
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Yang Cai
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xi Guo
- Medical College of Rehabilitation, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ru-Bing Liu
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fan-ke Meng
- Emergency Department, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Guo Yi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, Guangdong Province, China
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26
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Bedos L, Wickham H, Gabriel V, Zdyrski C, Allbaugh RA, Sahoo DK, Sebbag L, Mochel JP, Allenspach K. Culture and characterization of canine and feline corneal epithelial organoids: A new tool for the study and treatment of corneal diseases. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1050467. [PMID: 36406087 PMCID: PMC9672346 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1050467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we isolated and cultured canine and feline 3D corneal organoids. Samples derived from corneal limbal epithelium from one canine and one feline patient were obtained by enucleation after euthanasia. Stem cell isolation and organoid culture were performed by culturing organoids in Matrigel. Organoids were subsequently embedded in paraffin for further characterization. The expression of key corneal epithelial and stromal cell markers in canine and feline organoids was evaluated at the mRNA level by RNA-ISH and at the protein level by immunofluorescence (IF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), while histochemical analysis was performed on both tissues and organoids using periodic-acid Schiff (PAS), Sirius Red, Gomori's Trichrome, and Colloidal Iron stains. IF showed consistent expression of AQP1 within canine and feline organoids and tissues. P63 was present in canine tissues, canine organoids, and feline tissues, but not in feline organoids. Results from IHC staining further confirmed the primarily epithelial origin of the organoids. Canine and feline 3D corneal organoids can successfully be cultured and maintained and express epithelial and stem cell progenitor markers typical of the cornea. This novel in vitro model can be used in veterinary ophthalmology disease modeling, corneal drug testing, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Bedos
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Hannah Wickham
- SMART Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Vojtech Gabriel
- SMART Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Christopher Zdyrski
- SMART Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Rachel A. Allbaugh
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Dipak Kumar Sahoo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Lionel Sebbag
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jonathan P. Mochel
- SMART Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- 3D Health Solutions Inc., Ames, IA, United States
| | - Karin Allenspach
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- SMART Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- 3D Health Solutions Inc., Ames, IA, United States
- *Correspondence: Karin Allenspach
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27
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Sonam S, Bangru S, Perry KJ, Chembazhi UV, Kalsotra A, Henry JJ. Cellular and molecular profiles of larval and adult Xenopus corneal epithelia resolved at the single-cell level. Dev Biol 2022; 491:13-30. [PMID: 36049533 PMCID: PMC10241109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.08.007] [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: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Corneal Epithelial Stem Cells (CESCs) and their proliferative progeny, the Transit Amplifying Cells (TACs), are responsible for homeostasis and maintaining corneal transparency. Owing to our limited knowledge of cell fates and gene activity within the cornea, the search for unique markers to identify and isolate these cells remains crucial for ocular surface reconstruction. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing of corneal cells from larval and adult stages of Xenopus. Our results indicate that as the cornea develops and matures, there is an increase in cellular diversity, which is accompanied by a substantial shift in transcriptional profile, gene regulatory network and cell-cell communication dynamics. Our data also reveals several novel genes expressed in corneal cells and changes in gene expression during corneal differentiation at both developmental time-points. Importantly, we identify specific basal cell clusters in both the larval and adult cornea that comprise a relatively undifferentiated cell type and express distinct stem cell markers, which we propose are the putative larval and adult CESCs, respectively. This study offers a detailed atlas of single-cell transcriptomes in the frog cornea. In the future, this work will be useful to elucidate the function of novel genes in corneal epithelial homeostasis, wound healing and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surabhi Sonam
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Sushant Bangru
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA; Cancer Center@Illinois, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Kimberly J Perry
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Ullas V Chembazhi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Auinash Kalsotra
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA; Cancer Center@Illinois, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA.
| | - Jonathan J Henry
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA.
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Masood F, Chang JH, Akbar A, Song A, Hu WY, Azar DT, Rosenblatt MI. Therapeutic Strategies for Restoring Perturbed Corneal Epithelial Homeostasis in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: Current Trends and Future Directions. Cells 2022; 11:3247. [PMID: 36291115 PMCID: PMC9600167 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells constitute an important cell population required for regeneration of the corneal epithelium. If insults to limbal stem cells or their niche are sufficiently severe, a disease known as limbal stem cell deficiency occurs. In the absence of functioning limbal stem cells, vision-compromising conjunctivalization of the corneal epithelium occurs, leading to opacification, inflammation, neovascularization, and chronic scarring. Limbal stem cell transplantation is the standard treatment for unilateral cases of limbal stem cell deficiency, but bilateral cases require allogeneic transplantation. Herein we review the current therapeutic utilization of limbal stem cells. We also describe several limbal stem cell markers that impact their phenotype and function and discuss the possibility of modulating limbal stem cells and other sources of stem cells to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic interventions. We finally consider several hurdles for widespread adoption of these proposed methodologies and discuss how they can be overcome to realize vision-restoring interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Masood
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Jin-Hong Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Anosh Akbar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Amy Song
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Wen-Yang Hu
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dimitri T. Azar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mark I. Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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29
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Menzel-Severing J, Spaniol K, Groeber-Becker F, Geerling G. [Regenerative medicine for the corneal epithelium : Cell therapy from bench to bedside]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2022; 119:891-901. [PMID: 35925345 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-022-01674-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In the case of thermal or caustic burns of the ocular surface, loss of limbal epithelial stem cells leads to compromised self-renewal of the corneal epithelium. This results in permanent loss of vision. In these situations, transplantation of cultured limbal epithelial cells on an amniotic membrane or fibrin gel as substrate (Holoclar®) can help to regenerate the corneal surface. The required cells are obtained from the healthy partner eye, if available. Adult stem cells from other parts of the body potentially serve as alternative cell sources: hair follicles, oral mucosa, mesenchymal stromal cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells (originally, e.g., skin fibroblasts). The reprogramming of such cells can be achieved with the help of transcription factors. In addition, work is being done on biosynthetic or synthetic matrices, which not only serve as substrate material for the transplantation but also support the functional properties of these cells (self-renewal, corneal epithelial-typical phenotype).
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Menzel-Severing
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
| | - Kristina Spaniol
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - Florian Groeber-Becker
- Translationszentrum Regenerative Therapien | TLZ-RT, Leitung In-vitro-Testsysteme, Fraunhofer-Institut für Silicatforschung ISC, Würzburg, Deutschland
| | - Gerd Geerling
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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Abdellah N, Desoky SMME. Novel detection of stem cell niche within the stroma of limbus in the rabbit during postnatal development. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13711. [PMID: 35962026 PMCID: PMC9374725 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18090-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying and locating stem cell populations in the limbus may lead to developing a cell-based strategy for treating the corneal injury. Therefore, this study was the first to design a follow-up on the microscopical and histomorphometric changes in the rabbit limbus and to localize and demonstrate the limbal stem cell niche during postnatal development. The paraffin sections from the eyes of different postnatal-developmental stages were stained and examined using light microscopy. Furthermore, sections were immunohistologically stained for the epithelial stem cell differentiation marker, cytokeratin-14. Moreover, semithin and ultrathin sections were applied for ultrastructural demonstration of the stem cell niche. This study revealed that the number and thickness of limbal epithelial layers increased with age, whereas the thickness of limbal stroma decreased. Additionally, the immunohistochemical data showed that ck14 staining intensity increased in the limbal region where limbal stem cells reside. The semithin and ultrastructure investigation revealed stem cell clusters within the limbus's underlying stroma close to the blood and nerve supply and surrounded by telocytes. Conclusively, isolated clusters of limbal epithelial stem cells combined with blood vessels, nerve fibers, and telocytes propose a harmonious microenvironment of a stem cell niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Abdellah
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, 82524, Egypt.
| | - Sara M M El- Desoky
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Asyut, 71526, Egypt
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Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Corneal Cells: Current Status and Application. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:2817-2832. [PMID: 35913555 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10435-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Deficiency and dysfunction of corneal cells leads to the blindness observed in corneal diseases such as limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and bullous keratopathy. Regenerative cell therapies and engineered corneal tissue are promising treatments for these diseases [1]. However, these treatments are not yet clinically feasible due to inadequate cell sources. The discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by Shinya Yamanaka has provided a multitude of opportunities in research because iPSCs can be generated from somatic cells, thus providing an autologous and unlimited source for corneal cells. Compared to other stem cell sources such as mesenchymal and embryonic, iPSCs have advantages in differentiation potential and ethical concerns, respectively. Efforts have been made to use iPSCs to model corneal disorders and diseases, drug testing [2], and regenerative medicine [1]. Autologous treatments based on iPSCs can be exorbitantly expensive and time-consuming, but development of stem cell banks with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)- homozygous cell lines can provide cost- and time-efficient allogeneic alternatives. In this review, we discuss the early development of the cornea because protocols differentiating iPSCs toward corneal lineages rely heavily upon recapitulating this development. Differentiation of iPSCs toward corneal cell phenotypes have been analyzed with an emphasis on feeder-free, xeno-free, and well-defined protocols, which have clinical relevance. The application, challenges, and potential of iPSCs in corneal research are also discussed with a focus on hurdles that prevent clinical translation.
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Zhurenkov KE, Alexander-Sinkler EI, Gavrilyik IO, Yartseva NM, Aleksandrova SA, Mashel TV, Khorolskaya JI, Blinova MI, Kulikov AN, Churashov SV, Chernysh VF, Mikhailova NA. Labial Mucosa Stem Cells: Isolation, Characterization, and Their Potential for Corneal Epithelial Reconstruction. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:16. [PMID: 35848889 PMCID: PMC9308017 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.8.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to characterize labial mucosa stem cells (LMSCs) and to investigate their potential for corneal epithelial reconstruction in a rabbit model of total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Methods Rabbit LMSCs (rLMSCs) and human (hLMSCs) LMSCs were derived from labial mucosa and characterized in terms of their proliferation activity by the evaluation of proliferation index (PI) and colony forming efficiency (CFE), cell senescence, and differentiation abilities. The expression of various limbus-specific, stem cell-specific, and epithelial markers was assessed via immunocytochemistry. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate mesenchymal and hematopoietic cell surface markers expression. Chromosomal stability of the derived cells was examined using the conventional GTG-banding technique. To assess the impact of LMSCs on corneal epithelial reconstruction, rLMSCs were seeded onto a decellularized human amniotic membrane (dHAM), thereafter their regeneration potential was examined in the rabbit model of total LSCD. Results Both rLMSCs and hLMSCs showed high proliferation and differentiation abilities, entered senescence at later passages, and expressed different stem cell-specific (ABCB5, ALDH3A1, ABCG2, and p63α), mesenchymal (vimentin), and epithelial (CK3/12, CK15) markers. Cell surface antigen expression was similar to other described mesenchymal stem cells. No clonal structural chromosome abnormalities (CSCAs) and the low percentage of non-clonal structural chromosome abnormalities (NSCAs) were observed. Transplantation of rLMSCs promoted corneal epithelial reconstruction and enhanced corneal transparency. Conclusions LMSCs have significant proliferation and differentiation abilities, display no detrimental chromosome aberrations, and demonstrate considerable potential for corneal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill E Zhurenkov
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Science, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Cytology and Histology, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | | | - Natalia M Yartseva
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Science, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Tatiana V Mashel
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Science, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Miralda I Blinova
- Institute of Cytology Russian Academy of Science, St. Petersburg, Russia
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P-Cadherin Is Expressed by Epithelial Progenitor Cells and Melanocytes in the Human Corneal Limbus. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121975. [PMID: 35741104 PMCID: PMC9221557 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) and surrounding niche cells, which include limbal mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC) and melanocytes (LM), are essential for the maintenance of the limbal stem cell niche required for a transparent corneal surface. P-cadherin (P-cad) is a critical stem cell niche adhesion molecule at various epithelial stem cell niches; however, conflicting observations were reported on the presence of P-cad in the limbal region. To explore this issue, we assessed the location and phenotype of P-cad+ cells by confocal microscopy of human corneoscleral tissue. In subsequent fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) experiments, we used antibodies against P-cad along with CD90 and CD117 for the enrichment of LEPC, LMSC and LM, respectively. The sorted cells were characterized by immunophenotyping and the repopulation of decellularized limbal scaffolds was evaluated. Our findings demonstrate that P-cad is expressed by epithelial progenitor cells as well as melanocytes in the human limbal epithelial stem cell niche. The modified flow sorting addressing P-cad as well as CD90 and CD117 yielded enriched LEPC (CD90−CD117−P-cad+) and pure populations of LMSC (CD90+CD117−P-cad−) and LM (CD90−CD117+P-cad+). The enriched LEPC showed the expression of epithelial progenitor markers and better colony-forming ability than their P-cad− counterparts. The cultured LEPC and LM exhibited P-cad expression at intercellular junctions and successfully repopulated decellularized limbal scaffolds. These data suggest that P-cad is a critical cell–cell adhesion molecule, connecting LEPC and LM, which may play an important role in the long-term maintenance of LEPC at the limbal stem cell niche; moreover, these findings led to further improvement of cell enrichment protocols to enhance the yield of LEPC.
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Li S, Tang L, Zhou J, Anchouche S, Li D, Yang Y, Liu Z, Wu J, Hu J, Zhou Y, Yin J, Liu Z, Li W. Sleep deprivation induces corneal epithelial progenitor cell over-expansion through disruption of redox homeostasis in the tear film. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1105-1119. [PMID: 35487212 PMCID: PMC9133657 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep deficiency, a common public health problem, causes ocular discomfort and affects ocular surface health. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we identified that short-term sleep deprivation (SD) resulted in hyperproliferation of corneal epithelial progenitor cells (CEPCs) in mice. The expression levels of p63 and Keratin 14, the biomarkers of CEPCs, were upregulated in the corneal epithelium after short-term SD. In addition, SD led to elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and subsequent decrease in antioxidant capacity, in the tear film. Exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) could directly stimulate the proliferation of CEPCs in vivo and in vitro. Topical treatment of antioxidant L-glutathione preserved the over-proliferation of CEPCs and attenuated corneal epithelial defects in SD mice. Moreover, the activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway is essential to ROS-stimulated cell proliferation in CEPCs. However, long-term SD ultimately led to early manifestation of limbal stem cell deficiency. Sleep deprivation induces the over-expansion of corneal epithelial progenitor cells (CEPCs) Sleep deprivation disrupts redox homeostasis in the tear film PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation is essential to ROS-stimulated CEPC over-proliferation Topical L-glutathione treatment attenuates CEPC over-proliferation
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanming Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Liying Tang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Sonia Anchouche
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario 027399, Canada
| | - Dian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Yiran Yang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Zhaolin Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Jieli Wu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Jiaoyue Hu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Yueping Zhou
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China
| | - Jia Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Xiamen University Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of University South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421200, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361104, China; Xiamen University Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361004, China.
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Nguyen HT, Theerakittayakorn K, Somredngan S, Ngernsoungnern A, Ngernsoungnern P, Sritangos P, Ketudat-Cairns M, Imsoonthornruksa S, Assawachananont J, Keeratibharat N, Wongsan R, Rungsiwiwut R, Laowtammathron C, Bui NX, Parnpai R. Signaling Pathways Impact on Induction of Corneal Epithelial-like Cells Derived from Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063078. [PMID: 35328499 PMCID: PMC8949174 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal epithelium, the outmost layer of the cornea, comprises corneal epithelial cells (CECs) that are continuously renewed by limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs). Loss or dysfunction of LESCs causes limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) which results in corneal epithelial integrity loss and visual impairment. To regenerate the ocular surface, transplantation of stem cell-derived CECs is necessary. Human Wharton’s jelly derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are a good candidate for cellular therapies in allogeneic transplantation. This study aimed to test the effects of treatments on three signaling pathways involved in CEC differentiation as well as examine the optimal protocol for inducing corneal epithelial differentiation of human WJ-MSCs. All-trans retinoic acid (RA, 5 or 10 µM) inhibited the Wnt signaling pathway via suppressing the translocation of β-catenin from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. SB505124 downregulated the TGF-β signaling pathway via reducing phosphorylation of Smad2. BMP4 did not increase phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 that is involved in BMP signaling. The combination of RA, SB505124, BMP4, and EGF for the first 3 days of differentiation followed by supplementing hormonal epidermal medium for an additional 6 days could generate corneal epithelial-like cells that expressed a CEC specific marker CK12. This study reveals that WJ-MSCs have the potential to transdifferentiate into CECs which would be beneficial for further applications in LSCD treatment therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Thi Nguyen
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (H.T.N.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Laboratory of Embryo Technology, Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Kasem Theerakittayakorn
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (H.T.N.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
| | - Sirilak Somredngan
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (H.T.N.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
| | - Apichart Ngernsoungnern
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (A.N.); (P.N.); (P.S.)
| | - Piyada Ngernsoungnern
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (A.N.); (P.N.); (P.S.)
| | - Pishyaporn Sritangos
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (A.N.); (P.N.); (P.S.)
| | - Mariena Ketudat-Cairns
- School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (M.K.-C.); (S.I.)
| | - Sumeth Imsoonthornruksa
- School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (M.K.-C.); (S.I.)
| | - Juthaporn Assawachananont
- School of Ophthalmology, Institute of Medicine, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand;
| | - Nattawut Keeratibharat
- School of Surgery, Institute of Medicine, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand;
| | - Rangsirat Wongsan
- The Center for Scientific and Technological Equipment, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand;
| | - Ruttachuk Rungsiwiwut
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10000, Thailand;
| | - Chuti Laowtammathron
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10000, Thailand;
| | | | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (H.T.N.); (K.T.); (S.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-442-242-34
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Kesper C, Viestenz A, Wiese-Rischke C, Scheller M, Hammer T. Impact of the transcription factor IRF8 on limbal epithelial progenitor cells in a mouse model. Exp Eye Res 2022; 218:108985. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP)-Derived Peptide (NAP) Counteracts UV-B Radiation-Induced ROS Formation in Corneal Epithelium. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11010128. [PMID: 35052632 PMCID: PMC8773440 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea, acts as a dynamic barrier preventing access to harmful agents into the intraocular space. It is subjected daily to different insults, and ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation represents one of the main causes of injury. In our previous study, we demonstrated the beneficial effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) against UV-B radiation damage in the human corneal endothelium. Some of its effects are mediated through the activation of the intracellular factor, known as the activity-dependent protein (ADNP). In the present paper, we have investigated the role of ADNP and the small peptide derived from ADNP, known as NAP, in the corneal epithelium. Here, we have demonstrated, for the first time, ADNP expression in human and rabbit corneal epithelium as well as its protective effect by treating the corneal epithelial cells exposed to UV-B radiations with NAP. Our results showed that NAP treatment prevents ROS formation by reducing UV-B-irradiation-induced apoptotic cell death and JNK signalling pathway activation. Further investigations are needed to deeply investigate the possible therapeutic use of NAP to counteract corneal UV-B damage.
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Vattulainen M, Ilmarinen T, Viheriälä T, Jokinen V, Skottman H. Corneal epithelial differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells generates ABCB5 + and ∆Np63α + cells with limbal cell characteristics and high wound healing capacity. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:609. [PMID: 34930437 PMCID: PMC8691049 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Differentiation of functional limbal stem cells (LSCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is an important objective which can provide novel treatment solutions for patients suffering from limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Yet, further characterization is needed to better evaluate their immunogenicity and regenerative potential before clinical applications. Methods Human PSCs were differentiated towards corneal fate and cryopreserved using a clinically applicable protocol. Resulting hPSC-LSC populations were examined at days 10–11 and 24–25 during differentiation as well as at passage 1 post-thaw. Expression of cornea-associated markers including PAX6, ABCG2, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14, CK12 and ABCB5 as well as human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) was analyzed using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Wound healing properties of the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs were assessed via calcium imaging and scratch assay. Human and porcine tissue-derived cultured LSCs were used as controls for marker expression analysis and scratch assays at passage 1. Results The day 24–25 and post-thaw hPSC-LSCs displayed a similar marker profile with the tissue-derived LSCs, showing abundant expression of PAX6, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14 and ABCB5 and low expression of ABCG2. In contrast, day 10–11 hPSC-LSCs had lower expression of ABCB5 and ∆Np63α, but high expression of ABCG2. A small portion of the day 10–11 cells coexpressed ABCG2 and ABCB5. The expression of class I HLAs increased during hPSC-LSCs differentiation and was uniform in post-thaw hPSC-LSCs, however the intensity was lower in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. The calcium imaging revealed that the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs generated a robust response towards epithelial wound healing signaling mediator ATP. Further, scratch assay revealed that post-thaw hPSC-LSCs had higher wound healing capacity in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. Conclusions Clinically relevant LSC-like cells can be efficiently differentiated from hPSCs. The post-thaw hPSC-LSCs possess functional potency in calcium responses towards injury associated signals and in wound closure. The developmental trajectory observed during hPSC-LSC differentiation, giving rise to ABCG2+ population and further to ABCB5+ and ∆Np63α+ cells with limbal characteristics, indicates hPSC-derived cells can be utilized as a valuable cell source for the treatment of patients afflicted corneal blindness due to LSCD. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meri Vattulainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Vilma Jokinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
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Master A, Huang W, Huang L, Li W, Saglam S, Honkanen R, Rigas B. Simplified ex-vivo drug evaluation in ocular surface cells: Culture on cellulose filters of cells obtained by impression cytology. Exp Eye Res 2021; 213:108827. [PMID: 34742691 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108827] [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: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Drug development, resource- and time-intensive, extensively employs cell-based assays to assess the efficacy and safety of candidate drugs. The widely used immortalized cell lines, experimentally convenient, have limited predictive value. In contrast, ex-vivo models more faithfully reproduce diseases but are technically challenging to establish. To address this need, we developed a simplified process for ex-vivo cell culture, demonstrating its feasibility in ocular surface cells. Conjunctival cells were harvested by impression cytology and grown on mixed cellulose ester membrane filters (MCFs). Human and rabbit conjunctival cells cultured on MCFs are 100% viable at 24 h, and 43% viable at 72 h. A gene expression study evaluating 84 genes involved in ocular inflammation demonstrated that ex-vivo culturing maintains intact the expression of two thirds of these genes in human cells. That these cells are suitable for the assessment of ocular drugs was demonstrated by studying the effect of phosphosulindac (PS), a small molecule under development for the treatment of dry eye disease, in both human and rabbit conjunctival cells. PS, for example, suppressed the expression of CXCL10, a cytokine participating in the pathogenesis of dry eye disease, in human and in rabbit conjunctival cells cultured ex-vivo by 32% and 70%, respectively. Conjunctival cells cultured ex-vivo can be transfected to evaluate mechanistic questions. We successfully transfected such cells with a plasmid expressing luciferase under the control of an IFN-γ-responsive promoter or its control plasmid. IFN-γ stimulated luciferase expression by 85% in cells with the responsive plasmid but not in controls; PS significantly suppressed this induction by 37% without affecting the control plasmid. These findings demonstrate that human and rabbit conjunctival cells cultured ex-vivo with our method are viable and maintain their biological integrity; respond to biological and pharmacological agents; and are transfectable with informative plasmids. The unique advantage of this method is to potentially accelerate the development of novel drugs for the treatment of ocular surface diseases, and to advance our understanding of ocular surface pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Master
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA; Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqun Huang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA; Medicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Setauket, NY, 11733, USA; Apis Therapeutics LLC, Setauket, NY, 11733, USA
| | - Wenyi Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Sait Saglam
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Robert Honkanen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Basil Rigas
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA; Medicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Setauket, NY, 11733, USA; Apis Therapeutics LLC, Setauket, NY, 11733, USA.
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Català P, Groen N, Dehnen JA, Soares E, van Velthoven AJH, Nuijts RMMA, Dickman MM, LaPointe VLS. Single cell transcriptomics reveals the heterogeneity of the human cornea to identify novel markers of the limbus and stroma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21727. [PMID: 34741068 PMCID: PMC8571304 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01015-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the clear window that lets light into the eye. It is composed of five layers: epithelium, Bowman's layer, stroma, Descemet's membrane and endothelium. The maintenance of its structure and transparency are determined by the functions of the different cell types populating each layer. Attempts to regenerate corneal tissue and understand disease conditions requires knowledge of how cell profiles vary across this heterogeneous tissue. We performed a single cell transcriptomic profiling of 19,472 cells isolated from eight healthy donor corneas. Our analysis delineates the heterogeneity of the corneal layers by identifying cell populations and revealing cell states that contribute in preserving corneal homeostasis. We identified expression of CAV1, HOMER3 and CPVL in the corneal epithelial limbal stem cell niche, CKS2, STMN1 and UBE2C were exclusively expressed in highly proliferative transit amplifying cells, CXCL14 was expressed exclusively in the suprabasal/superficial limbus, and NNMT was exclusively expressed by stromal keratocytes. Overall, this research provides a basis to improve current primary cell expansion protocols, for future profiling of corneal disease states, to help guide pluripotent stem cells into different corneal lineages, and to understand how engineered substrates affect corneal cells to improve regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pere Català
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jasmin A Dehnen
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Eduardo Soares
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arianne J H van Velthoven
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rudy M M A Nuijts
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, PO Box 5800, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Robertson SYT, Roberts JS, Deng SX. Regulation of Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells: Importance of the Niche. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11975. [PMID: 34769405 PMCID: PMC8584795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LSCs) reside in a niche that contains finely tuned balances of various signaling pathways including Wnt, Notch, BMP, Shh, YAP, and TGFβ. The activation or inhibition of these pathways is frequently dependent on the interactions of LSCs with various niche cell types and extracellular substrates. In addition to receiving molecular signals from growth factors, cytokines, and other soluble molecules, LSCs also respond to their surrounding physical structure via mechanotransduction, interaction with the ECM, and interactions with other cell types. Damage to LSCs or their niche leads to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). The field of LSCD treatment would greatly benefit from an understanding of the molecular regulation of LSCs in vitro and in vivo. This review synthesizes current literature around the niche factors and signaling pathways that influence LSC function. Future development of LSCD therapies should consider all these niche factors to achieve improved long-term restoration of the LSC population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sophie X. Deng
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 94143, USA; (S.Y.T.R.); (J.S.R.)
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Bonnet C, González S, Roberts JS, Robertson SYT, Ruiz M, Zheng J, Deng SX. Human limbal epithelial stem cell regulation, bioengineering and function. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 85:100956. [PMID: 33676006 PMCID: PMC8428188 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is continuously renewed by limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs), a cell population harbored in a highly regulated niche located at the limbus. Dysfunction and/or loss of LSCs and their niche cause limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a disease that is marked by invasion of conjunctival epithelium into the cornea and results in failure of epithelial wound healing. Corneal opacity, pain, loss of vision, and blindness are the consequences of LSCD. Successful treatment of LSCD depends on accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease and requires restoration of functional LSCs and their niche. This review highlights the major advances in the identification of potential LSC biomarkers and components of the LSC niche, understanding of LSC regulation, methods and regulatory standards in bioengineering of LSCs, and diagnosis and staging of LSCD. Overall, this review presents key points for researchers and clinicians alike to consider in deepening the understanding of LSC biology and improving LSCD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Bonnet
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA; Cornea Department, Paris University, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, F-75014, Paris, France
| | - Sheyla González
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - JoAnn S Roberts
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sarah Y T Robertson
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Maxime Ruiz
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jie Zheng
- Basic Science Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Wnt6 plays a complex role in maintaining human limbal stem/progenitor cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20948. [PMID: 34686698 PMCID: PMC8536737 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00273-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is consistently regenerated by limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs), a very small population of adult stem cells residing in the limbus. Several Wnt ligands, including Wnt6, are preferentially expressed in the limbus. To investigate the role of Wnt6 in regulating proliferation and maintenance of human LSCs in an in vitro LSC expansion setting, we generated NIH-3T3 feeder cells to overexpress different levels of Wnt6. Characterization of LSCs cultured on Wnt6 expressing 3T3 cells showed that high level of Wnt6 increased proliferation of LSCs. Medium and high levels of Wnt6 also increased the percentage of small cells (diameter ≤ 12 µm), a feature of the stem cell population. Additionally, the percentage of cells expressing the differentiation marker K12 was significantly reduced in the presence of medium and high Wnt6 levels. Although Wnt6 is mostly known as a canonical Wnt ligand, our data showed that canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways were activated in the Wnt6-supplemented LSC cultures, a finding suggesting that interrelationships between both pathways are required for LSC regulation.
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Romo-Valera C, Pérez-Garrastachu M, Hernáez-Moya R, Rodriguez-Astigarraga M, Romano-Ruiz P, Etxebarria J, Arluzea J, Andollo N. Characterisation of corneas following different time and storage methods for their use as a source of stem-like limbal epithelial cells. Exp Eye Res 2021; 211:108720. [PMID: 34389315 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The transplantation of expansions of limbal epithelial stem cells (LESC) remains one of the most efficient therapies for the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) to date. However, the available donor corneas are scarce, and the corneas conserved for long time, under hypothermic conditions (after 7 days) or in culture (more than 28 days), are usually discarded due to poor viability of the endothelial cells. To establish an objective criterion for the utilisation or discarding of corneas as a source of LESC, we characterized, by immunohistochemistry analysis, donor corneas conserved in different conditions and for different periods of time. We also studied the potency of LESCs isolated from these corneas and maintained in culture up to 3 cell passages. We hoped that the study of markers of LESCs present in both the corneoscleral histological sections and the cell cultures would show the adequacy of the methods used for cell isolation and how fit the LESC enrichment of the obtained cell populations to be expanded was. Thus, the expressions of markers of the cells residing in the human limbal and corneal epithelium (cytokeratin CK15 and CK12, vimentin, Collagen VII, p63α, ABCG2, Ki67, Integrin β4, ZO1, and melan A) were analysed in sections of corneoscleral tissues conserved in hypothermic conditions for 2-9 days with post-mortem time (pmt) < 8 h or for 1 day with pmt > 16 h, and in sclerocorneal rims maintained in an organ culture medium for 29 days. Cell populations isolated from donor corneoscleral tissues were also assessed based on these markers to verify the adequacy of isolation methods and the potential of expanding LESCs from these tissues. Positivity for several putative stem cell markers such as CK15 and p63α was detected in all corneoscleral tissues, although a decrease was recorded in the ones conserved for longer times. The barrier function and the ability to adhere to the extracellular matrix were maintained in all the analysed tissues. In limbal epithelial cell cultures, a simultaneous decrease in the melan A melanocyte marker and the putative stem cell markers was detected, suggesting a close relationship between the melanocytes and the limbal stem cells of the niche. Holoclones stained with putative stem cell markers were obtained from long-term, hypothermic, stored sclerocorneal rims. The results showed that the remaining sclerocorneal rims after corneal transplantation, which were conserved under hypothermic conditions for up to 7 days and would have been discarded at a first glance, still maintained their potential as a source of LESC cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Romo-Valera
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Miguel Pérez-Garrastachu
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Raquel Hernáez-Moya
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Maddalen Rodriguez-Astigarraga
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Paula Romano-Ruiz
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Jaime Etxebarria
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cruces, Cruces Plaza S/N, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain; BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Begiker, Cruces Plaza S/N, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Jon Arluzea
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Noelia Andollo
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Sarriena, S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain; BioCruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Begiker, Cruces Plaza S/N, 48903, Barakaldo, Spain.
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Abdul-Al M, Kyeremeh GK, Saeinasab M, Heidari Keshel S, Sefat F. Stem Cell Niche Microenvironment: Review. Bioengineering (Basel) 2021; 8:bioengineering8080108. [PMID: 34436111 PMCID: PMC8389324 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering8080108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea comprises a pool of self-regenerating epithelial cells that are crucial to preserving clarity and visibility. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs), which live in a specialized stem cell niche (SCN), are crucial for the survival of the human corneal epithelium. They live at the bottom of the limbal crypts, in a physically enclosed microenvironment with a number of neighboring niche cells. Scientists also simplified features of these diverse microenvironments for more analysis in situ by designing and recreating features of different SCNs. Recent methods for regenerating the corneal epithelium after serious trauma, including burns and allergic assaults, focus mainly on regenerating the LESCs. Mesenchymal stem cells, which can transform into self-renewing and skeletal tissues, hold immense interest for tissue engineering and innovative medicinal exploration. This review summarizes all types of LESCs, identity and location of the human epithelial stem cells (HESCs), reconstruction of LSCN and artificial stem cells for self-renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdul-Al
- Department of Biomedical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford BD71DP, UK; (M.A.-A.); (G.K.K.)
| | - George Kumi Kyeremeh
- Department of Biomedical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford BD71DP, UK; (M.A.-A.); (G.K.K.)
| | - Morvarid Saeinasab
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 91779 48974, Iran;
| | - Saeed Heidari Keshel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839 69411, Iran;
| | - Farshid Sefat
- Department of Biomedical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford BD71DP, UK; (M.A.-A.); (G.K.K.)
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Polymer Science & Technology (Polymer IRC), University of Bradford, Bradford BD71DP, UK
- Correspondence:
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Guindolet D, Crouzet E, He Z, Herbepin P, Perrache C, Garcin T, Gauthier AS, Forest F, Peoc'h M, Gain P, Gabison E, Thuret G. Epithelial Regeneration in Human Corneas Preserved in an Active Storage Machine. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:31. [PMID: 34003916 PMCID: PMC7900847 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.2.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To characterize the corneal epithelium (CE) and limbal epithelium (LE) of human corneas stored in an innovative active storage machine (ASM) after a period of organ culture (OC). Methods Corneas unsuitable for graft and stored in a standard commercial OC medium for 2 to 5 weeks were transferred into our ASM for 14 days. The ASM actively maintained an overpressure on the endothelial side (20 mm Hg) while ensuring medium renewal. We compared three modalities of storage in the ASM's epithelial chamber: (1) alternating exposure to a supplemental hormonal epithelial medium (SHEM) and air (air-lifting), (2) continuous immersion in SHEM, and (3) continuous immersion in OC medium. Passive immersion of the whole cornea in OC medium or of the CE in SHEM with or without airlifting served as controls. Paired corneas were used for better comparability. Histology, differentiation (by immunolabeling), and ultrastructure were analyzed at the end. Results The ASM with air-lifting was most effective in regenerating a pluristratified and differentiated CE (apical ZO-1 and MUC16 staining and regeneration of the glycocalyx). In addition, the LE was stratified with preserved expression of ABCB5. The ASM with immersion in SHEM or OC medium gave a less stratified and differentiated CE. In the three control groups, the epithelia, when present, were paucistratified and less differentiated. Conclusions In human corneas previously stored in OC, the ASM regenerates a CE with differentiation characteristics close to normal. Translational Relevance Regeneration of the epithelium of human corneas discarded by eye banks will increase tissue availability for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Guindolet
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Cornea and External Disorders Department, Rothschild Foundation Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Crouzet
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Zhiguo He
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Pascal Herbepin
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Chantal Perrache
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Thibaud Garcin
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Gauthier
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Fabien Forest
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Pathology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Michel Peoc'h
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Pathology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Philippe Gain
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Eric Gabison
- Cornea and External Disorders Department, Rothschild Foundation Hospital, Paris, France.,Ophthalmology Department, Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, SFR143, Federative Institute of Research in Sciences and Health Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Etienne, France.,Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France.,Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
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Yu Q, Biswas S, Ma G, Zhao P, Li B, Li J. Canonical NF-κB signaling maintains corneal epithelial integrity and prevents corneal aging via retinoic acid. eLife 2021; 10:e67315. [PMID: 34085926 PMCID: PMC8192125 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of the transparent cornea affect millions of people worldwide. However, how to maintain and/or regenerate this organ remains unclear. Here, we show that Rela (encoding a canonical NF-κB subunit) ablation in K14+ corneal epithelial stem cells not only disrupts corneal regeneration but also results in age-dependent epithelial deterioration, which triggers aberrant wound-healing processes including stromal remodeling, neovascularization, epithelial metaplasia, and plaque formation at the central cornea. These anomalies are largely recapitulated in normal mice that age naturally. Mechanistically, Rela deletion suppresses expression of Aldh1a1, an enzyme required for retinoic acid synthesis from vitamin A. Retinoic acid administration blocks development of ocular anomalies in Krt14-Cre; Relaf/f mice and naturally aged mice. Moreover, epithelial metaplasia and plaque formation are preventable by inhibition of angiogenesis. This study thus uncovers the major mechanisms governing corneal maintenance, regeneration, and aging and identifies the NF-κB-retinoic acid pathway as a therapeutic target for corneal disorders.
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MESH Headings
- Age Factors
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Family/genetics
- Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Family/metabolism
- Animals
- Burns, Chemical/drug therapy
- Burns, Chemical/etiology
- Burns, Chemical/metabolism
- Burns, Chemical/pathology
- Cell Differentiation/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Cellular Senescence/drug effects
- Corneal Neovascularization/metabolism
- Corneal Neovascularization/pathology
- Corneal Neovascularization/prevention & control
- Corneal Stroma/drug effects
- Corneal Stroma/metabolism
- Corneal Stroma/pathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Epithelium, Corneal/drug effects
- Epithelium, Corneal/metabolism
- Epithelium, Corneal/pathology
- Eye Burns/chemically induced
- Eye Burns/drug therapy
- Eye Burns/metabolism
- Eye Burns/pathology
- Mice, Knockout
- Regeneration/drug effects
- Retinal Dehydrogenase/genetics
- Retinal Dehydrogenase/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Stem Cells/drug effects
- Stem Cells/metabolism
- Stem Cells/pathology
- Transcription Factor RelA/genetics
- Transcription Factor RelA/metabolism
- Tretinoin/pharmacology
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Soma Biswas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Gang Ma
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Baojie Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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48
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Promoting limbal stem cells proliferation and maintenance using post-thaw human amniotic membranes fortified by platelet lysate. GENE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Collin J, Queen R, Zerti D, Bojic S, Dorgau B, Moyse N, Molina MM, Yang C, Dey S, Reynolds G, Hussain R, Coxhead JM, Lisgo S, Henderson D, Joseph A, Rooney P, Ghosh S, Clarke L, Connon C, Haniffa M, Figueiredo F, Armstrong L, Lako M. A single cell atlas of human cornea that defines its development, limbal progenitor cells and their interactions with the immune cells. Ocul Surf 2021; 21:279-298. [PMID: 33865984 PMCID: PMC8343164 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Single cell (sc) analyses of key embryonic, fetal and adult stages were performed to generate a comprehensive single cell atlas of all the corneal and adjacent conjunctival cell types from development to adulthood. Methods Four human adult and seventeen embryonic and fetal corneas from 10 to 21 post conception week (PCW) specimens were dissociated to single cells and subjected to scRNA- and/or ATAC-Seq using the 10x Genomics platform. These were embedded using Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) and clustered using Seurat graph-based clustering. Cluster identification was performed based on marker gene expression, bioinformatic data mining and immunofluorescence (IF) analysis. RNA interference, IF, colony forming efficiency and clonal assays were performed on cultured limbal epithelial cells (LECs). Results scRNA-Seq analysis of 21,343 cells from four adult human corneas and adjacent conjunctivas revealed the presence of 21 cell clusters, representing the progenitor and differentiated cells in all layers of cornea and conjunctiva as well as immune cells, melanocytes, fibroblasts, and blood/lymphatic vessels. A small cell cluster with high expression of limbal progenitor cell (LPC) markers was identified and shown via pseudotime analysis to give rise to five other cell types representing all the subtypes of differentiated limbal and corneal epithelial cells. A novel putative LPCs surface marker, GPHA2, expressed on the surface of 0.41% ± 0.21 of the cultured LECs, was identified, based on predominant expression in the limbal crypts of adult and developing cornea and RNAi validation in cultured LECs. Combining scRNA- and ATAC-Seq analyses, we identified multiple upstream regulators for LPCs and demonstrated a close interaction between the immune cells and limbal progenitor cells. RNA-Seq analysis indicated the loss of GPHA2 expression and acquisition of proliferative limbal basal epithelial cell markers during ex vivo LEC expansion, independently of the culture method used. Extending the single cell analyses to keratoconus, we were able to reveal activation of collagenase in the corneal stroma and a reduced pool of limbal suprabasal cells as two key changes underlying the disease phenotype. Single cell RNA-Seq of 89,897 cells obtained from embryonic and fetal cornea indicated that during development, the conjunctival epithelium is the first to be specified from the ocular surface epithelium, followed by the corneal epithelium and the establishment of LPCs, which predate the formation of limbal niche by a few weeks. Conclusions Our scRNA-and ATAC-Seq data of developing and adult cornea in steady state and disease conditions provide a unique resource for defining genes/pathways that can lead to improvement in ex vivo LPCs expansion, stem cell differentiation methods and better understanding and treatment of ocular surface disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Collin
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Rachel Queen
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Darin Zerti
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Sanja Bojic
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Birthe Dorgau
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Nicky Moyse
- Newcastle Cellular Therapies Facility, Newcastle University and Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Marina Moya Molina
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Chunbo Yang
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Sunanda Dey
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Gary Reynolds
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Rafiqul Hussain
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Jonathan M Coxhead
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Steven Lisgo
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Deborah Henderson
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Agatha Joseph
- NHS Blood and Transplant Tissue and Eye Services, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paul Rooney
- NHS Blood and Transplant Tissue and Eye Services, Liverpool, UK
| | - Saurabh Ghosh
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, Sunderland, UK
| | - Lucy Clarke
- UK Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary and Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Che Connon
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Muzlifah Haniffa
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Francisco Figueiredo
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK; UK Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary and Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Lyle Armstrong
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK.
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK.
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50
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Hadrian K, Willenborg S, Bock F, Cursiefen C, Eming SA, Hos D. Macrophage-Mediated Tissue Vascularization: Similarities and Differences Between Cornea and Skin. Front Immunol 2021; 12:667830. [PMID: 33897716 PMCID: PMC8058454 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.667830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are critical mediators of tissue vascularization both in health and disease. In multiple tissues, macrophages have been identified as important regulators of both blood and lymphatic vessel growth, specifically following tissue injury and in pathological inflammatory responses. In development, macrophages have also been implicated in limiting vascular growth. Hence, macrophages provide an important therapeutic target to modulate tissue vascularization in the clinic. However, the molecular mechanisms how macrophages mediate tissue vascularization are still not entirely resolved. Furthermore, mechanisms might also vary among different tissues. Here we review the role of macrophages in tissue vascularization with a focus on their role in blood and lymphatic vessel formation in the barrier tissues cornea and skin. Comparing mechanisms of macrophage-mediated hem- and lymphangiogenesis in the angiogenically privileged cornea and the physiologically vascularized skin provides an opportunity to highlight similarities but also tissue-specific differences, and to understand how macrophage-mediated hem- and lymphangiogenesis can be exploited for the treatment of disease, including corneal wound healing after injury, graft rejection after corneal transplantation or pathological vascularization of the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Hadrian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sabine A Eming
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Developmental Biology Unit, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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