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Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Development in the Ophthalmologic Field. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:2361763. [PMID: 27594887 PMCID: PMC4995319 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2361763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a type of stem cells that can be derived from human somatic cells by introducing certain transcription factors. Induced pluripotent stem cells can divide indefinitely and are able to differentiate into every cell type, which make them viable for transplantation and individual disease modeling. Recently, various ocular cells, including corneal epithelial-like cells, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells displaying functions similar to native RPE, photoreceptors, and retinal ganglion cells, have all been successfully derived from iPSCs. Transplantation of these cells in animal models showed great promise for reversing blindness, and the first clinical trial on humans started in 2013. Despite these promising results, more research is in demand for preventing inadvertent tumor growth, developing precise functionality of the cells, and promoting integration into the host tissue.
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Differentiation/Purification Protocol for Retinal Pigment Epithelium from Mouse Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells as a Research Tool. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158282. [PMID: 27385038 PMCID: PMC4934919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To establish a novel protocol for differentiation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) with high purity from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). Methods Retinal progenitor cells were differentiated from mouse iPSC, and RPE differentiation was then enhanced by activation of the Wnt signaling pathway, inhibition of the fibroblast growth factor signaling pathway, and inhibition of the Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase signaling pathway. Expanded pigmented cells were purified by plate adhesion after Accutase® treatment. Enriched cells were cultured until they developed a cobblestone appearance with cuboidal shape. The characteristics of iPS-RPE were confirmed by gene expression, immunocytochemistry, and electron microscopy. Functions and immunologic features of the iPS-RPE were also evaluated. Results We obtained iPS-RPE at high purity (approximately 98%). The iPS-RPE showed apical-basal polarity and cellular structure characteristic of RPE. Expression levels of several RPE markers were lower than those of freshly isolated mouse RPE but comparable to those of primary cultured RPE. The iPS-RPE could form tight junctions, phagocytose photoreceptor outer segments, express immune antigens, and suppress lymphocyte proliferation. Conclusion We successfully developed a differentiation/purification protocol to obtain mouse iPS-RPE. The mouse iPS-RPE can serve as an attractive tool for functional and morphological studies of RPE.
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Sridhar A, Ohlemacher SK, Langer KB, Meyer JS. Robust Differentiation of mRNA-Reprogrammed Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Toward a Retinal Lineage. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 5:417-26. [PMID: 26933039 PMCID: PMC4798730 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability and efficiency of mRNA-reprogrammed human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to yield retinal cell types in a directed, stepwise manner was tested. hiPSCs derived through mRNA-based reprogramming strategies offer numerous advantages owing to the lack of genomic integration or constitutive expression of pluripotency genes. Such methods represent a promising new approach for retinal stem cell research, especially translational applications. The derivation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from patient-specific sources has allowed for the development of novel approaches to studies of human development and disease. However, traditional methods of generating hiPSCs involve the risks of genomic integration and potential constitutive expression of pluripotency factors and often exhibit low reprogramming efficiencies. The recent description of cellular reprogramming using synthetic mRNA molecules might eliminate these shortcomings; however, the ability of mRNA-reprogrammed hiPSCs to effectively give rise to retinal cell lineages has yet to be demonstrated. Thus, efforts were undertaken to test the ability and efficiency of mRNA-reprogrammed hiPSCs to yield retinal cell types in a directed, stepwise manner. hiPSCs were generated from human fibroblasts via mRNA reprogramming, with parallel cultures of isogenic human fibroblasts reprogrammed via retroviral delivery of reprogramming factors. New lines of mRNA-reprogrammed hiPSCs were established and were subsequently differentiated into a retinal fate using established protocols in a directed, stepwise fashion. The efficiency of retinal differentiation from these lines was compared with retroviral-derived cell lines at various stages of development. On differentiation, mRNA-reprogrammed hiPSCs were capable of robust differentiation to a retinal fate, including the derivation of photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells, at efficiencies often equal to or greater than their retroviral-derived hiPSC counterparts. Thus, given that hiPSCs derived through mRNA-based reprogramming strategies offer numerous advantages owing to the lack of genomic integration or constitutive expression of pluripotency genes, such methods likely represent a promising new approach for retinal stem cell research, in particular, those for translational applications. Significance In the current report, the ability to derive mRNA-reprogrammed human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), followed by the differentiation of these cells toward a retinal lineage, including photoreceptors, retinal ganglion cells, and retinal pigment epithelium, has been demonstrated. The use of mRNA reprogramming to yield pluripotency represents a unique ability to derive pluripotent stem cells without the use of DNA vectors, ensuring the lack of genomic integration and constitutive expression. The studies reported in the present article serve to establish a more reproducible system with which to derive retinal cell types from hiPSCs through the prevention of genomic integration of delivered genes and should also eliminate the risk of constitutive expression of these genes. Such ability has important implications for the study of, and development of potential treatments for, retinal degenerative disorders and the development of novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshayalakshmi Sridhar
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sarah K Ohlemacher
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kirstin B Langer
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jason S Meyer
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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The Application of Human iPSCs in Neurological Diseases: From Bench to Bedside. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:6484713. [PMID: 26880979 PMCID: PMC4736583 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6484713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In principle, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are generated from somatic cells by reprogramming and gaining the capacity to self-renew indefinitely as well as the ability to differentiate into cells of different lineages. Human iPSCs have absolute advantages over human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and animal models in disease modeling, drug screening, and cell replacement therapy. Since Takahashi and Yamanaka first described in 2007 that iPSCs can be generated from human adult somatic cells by retroviral transduction of the four transcription factors, Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, disease specific iPSC lines have sprung up worldwide like bamboo shoots after a spring rain, making iPSC one of the hottest and fastest moving topics in modern science. The craze for iPSCs has spread throughout main branches of clinical medicine, covering neurology, hematology, cardiology, endocrinology, hepatology, ophthalmology, and so on. Here in this paper, we will focus on the clinical application of human iPSCs in disease modeling, drug screening, and cell replacement therapy for neurological diseases.
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Zhu J, Lamba DA. Restoring Vision: Where are We with Stem Cells? CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-015-0078-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Maekawa Y, Onishi A, Matsushita K, Koide N, Mandai M, Suzuma K, Kitaoka T, Kuwahara A, Ozone C, Nakano T, Eiraku M, Takahashi M. Optimized Culture System to Induce Neurite Outgrowth From Retinal Ganglion Cells in Three-Dimensional Retinal Aggregates Differentiated From Mouse and Human Embryonic Stem Cells. Curr Eye Res 2015; 41:558-68. [PMID: 25880804 DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2015.1038359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To establish a practical research tool for studying the pathogenesis of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) diseases, we optimized culture procedures to induce neurite outgrowth from three-dimensional self-organizing optic vesicles (3D-retinas) differentiated in vitro from mouse and human embryonic stem cells (ESCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS The developing 3D-retinas isolated at various time points were placed on Matrigel-coated plates and cultured in media on the basis of the 3D-retinal culture or the retinal organotypic culture protocol. The number, length, and morphology of the neurites in each culture condition were compared. RESULTS First, we confirmed that Venus-positive cells were double-labeled with a RGC marker, Brn3a, in the 3D-retina differentiated from Fstl4::Venus mouse ESCs, indicating specific RGC-subtype differentiation. Second, Venus-positive neurites grown from these RGC subsets were positive for beta-III tubulin and SMI312 by immunohistochemistry. Enhanced neurite outgrowth was observed in the B27-supplemented Neurobasal-A medium on Matrigel-coated plates from the optic vesicles isolated after 14 days of differentiation from mouse ESCs. For the differentiated RGCs from human ESCs, we obtained neurite extension of >4 mm by modifying Matrigel coating and the culture medium from the mouse RGC culture. CONCLUSION We successfully optimized the culture conditions to enhance lengthy and high-frequency neurite outgrowth in mouse and human models. The procedure would be useful for not only developmental studies of RGCs, including maintenance and projection, but also clinical, pathological, and pharmacological studies of human RGC diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Maekawa
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan .,b Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science , Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki University , Kobe , Japan
| | - Akishi Onishi
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
| | - Keizo Matsushita
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan .,c Regenerative and Cellular Medicine Office, Sumitomo Dainippon Phama Co., Ltd , Kobe , Japan
| | - Naoshi Koide
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Suzuma
- b Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science , Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki University , Kobe , Japan
| | - Takashi Kitaoka
- b Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science , Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Nagasaki University , Kobe , Japan
| | - Atsushi Kuwahara
- d Laboratory for Organogenesis and Neurogenesis , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan .,e Environmental Health Science Laboratory , Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. , Osaka , Japan , and
| | - Chikafumi Ozone
- d Laboratory for Organogenesis and Neurogenesis , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
| | - Tokushige Nakano
- d Laboratory for Organogenesis and Neurogenesis , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan .,e Environmental Health Science Laboratory , Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. , Osaka , Japan , and
| | - Mototsugu Eiraku
- f Laboratory for in vitro Histogenesis , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- a Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration , RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology , Kobe , Japan
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Jayakody SA, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Ali RR, Pearson RA. Cellular strategies for retinal repair by photoreceptor replacement. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 46:31-66. [PMID: 25660226 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Loss of photoreceptors due to retinal degeneration is a major cause of blindness in the developed world. While no effective treatment is currently available, cell replacement therapy, using pluripotent stem cell-derived photoreceptor precursor cells, may be a feasible future treatment. Recent reports have demonstrated rescue of visual function following the transplantation of immature photoreceptors and we have seen major advances in our ability to generate transplantation-competent donor cells from stem cell sources. Moreover, we are beginning to realise the possibilities of using endogenous populations of cells from within the retina itself to mediate retinal repair. Here, we present a review of our current understanding of endogenous repair mechanisms together with recent progress in the use of both ocular and pluripotent stem cells for the treatment of photoreceptor loss. We consider how our understanding of retinal development has underpinned many of the recent major advances in translation and moved us closer to the goal of restoring vision by cellular means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujatha A Jayakody
- Gene and Cell Therapy Group, Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath St, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- Gene and Cell Therapy Group, Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath St, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- Gene and Cell Therapy Group, Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath St, London EC1V 9EL, UK; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, City Road, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- Gene and Cell Therapy Group, Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath St, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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Osakada F, Takahashi M. Challenges in retinal circuit regeneration: linking neuronal connectivity to circuit function. Biol Pharm Bull 2015; 38:341-57. [PMID: 25757915 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b14-00771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Tremendous progress has been made in retinal regeneration, as exemplified by successful transplantation of retinal pigment epithelia and photoreceptor cells in the adult retina, as well as by generation of retinal tissue from embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent cells. However, it remains unknown how new photoreceptors integrate within retinal circuits and contribute to vision restoration. There is a large gap in our understanding, at both the cellular and behavioral levels, of the functional roles of new neurons in the adult retina. This gap largely arises from the lack of appropriate methods for analyzing the organization and function of new neurons at the circuit level. To bridge this gap and understand the functional roles of new neurons in living animals, it will be necessary to identify newly formed connections, correlate them with function, manipulate their activity, and assess the behavioral outcome of these manipulations. Recombinant viral vectors are powerful tools not only for controlling gene expression and reprogramming cells, but also for tracing cell fates and neuronal connectivity, monitoring biological functions, and manipulating the physiological state of a specific cell population. These virus-based approaches, combined with electrophysiology and optical imaging, will provide circuit-level insight into neural regeneration and facilitate new strategies for achieving vision restoration in the adult retina. Herein, we discuss challenges and future directions in retinal regeneration research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumitaka Osakada
- Laboratory of Cellular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University; Systems Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, California 92037, USA; PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama 332-0012, Japan.
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Yu DX, Marchetto MC, Gage FH. Therapeutic translation of iPSCs for treating neurological disease. Cell Stem Cell 2014; 12:678-88. [PMID: 23746977 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Somatic cellular reprogramming is a fast-paced and evolving field that is changing the way scientists approach neurological diseases. For the first time in the history of neuroscience, it is feasible to study the behavior of live neurons from patients with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and neuropsychiatric diseases, such as autism and schizophrenia. In this Perspective, we will discuss reprogramming technology in the context of its potential use for modeling and treating neurological and psychiatric diseases and will highlight areas of caution and opportunities for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana X Yu
- The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Santos-Ferreira T, Postel K, Stutzki H, Kurth T, Zeck G, Ader M. Daylight Vision Repair by Cell Transplantation. Stem Cells 2014; 33:79-90. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.1824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Santos-Ferreira
- CRTD/DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
| | - Kai Postel
- CRTD/DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
| | - Henrike Stutzki
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen; Reutlingen Germany
- Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience; Tübingen Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- CRTD/DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
| | - Günther Zeck
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen; Reutlingen Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden; Technische Universität Dresden; Dresden Germany
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Chapter 8 - Restoring Vision to the Blind: Evaluating Visual Function, Endpoints. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2014; 3:10. [PMID: 25653894 PMCID: PMC4314989 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.3.7.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Burnight ER, Wiley LA, Mullins RF, Stone EM, Tucker BA. Gene therapy using stem cells. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2014; 5:cshperspect.a017434. [PMID: 25395375 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a017434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Viral-mediated gene augmentation therapy has recently shown success in restoring vision to patients with retinal degenerative disorders. Key to this success was the availability of animal models that accurately presented the human phenotype to test preclinical efficacy and safety. These exciting studies support the use of gene therapy in the treatment of devastating retinal degenerative diseases. In some cases, however, in vivo gene therapy for retinal degeneration would not be effective because the cell types targeted are no longer present. The development of somatic cell reprogramming methods provides an attractive source of autologous cells for transplantation and treatment of retinal degenerative disease. This article explores the development of gene therapy and patient-derived stem cells for the purpose of restoring vision to individuals suffering from inherited retinal degenerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin R Burnight
- The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Luke A Wiley
- The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Robert F Mullins
- The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Edwin M Stone
- The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242 Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Budd A Tucker
- The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
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Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells: A new source for cell-based therapeutics? J Control Release 2014; 185:37-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Tran NM, Chen S. Mechanisms of blindness: animal models provide insight into distinct CRX-associated retinopathies. Dev Dyn 2014; 243:1153-66. [PMID: 24888636 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The homeodomain transcription factor CRX is a crucial regulator of mammalian photoreceptor gene expression. Mutations in the human CRX gene are associated with dominant inherited retinopathies Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), Cone-Rod Dystrophy (CoRD), and Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), of varying severity. In vitro and in vivo assessment of mutant CRX proteins have revealed pathogenic mechanisms for several mutations, but no comprehensive mutation-disease correlation has yet been reported. RESULTS Here we describe four different classes of disease-causing CRX mutations, characterized by mutation type, pathogenetic mechanism, and the molecular activity of the mutant protein: (1) hypomorphic missense mutations with reduced DNA binding, (2) antimorphic missense mutations with variable DNA binding, (3) antimorphic frameshift/nonsense mutations with intact DNA binding, and (4) antimorphic frameshift mutations with reduced DNA binding. Mammalian models representing three of these classes have been characterized. CONCLUSIONS Models carrying Class I mutations display a mild dominant retinal phenotype and recessive LCA, while models carrying Class III and IV mutations display characteristically distinct dominant LCA phenotypes. These animal models also reveal unexpected pathogenic mechanisms underlying CRX-associated retinopathies. The complexity of genotype-phenotype correlation for CRX-associated diseases highlights the value of developing comprehensive "true-to-disease" animal models for understanding pathologic mechanisms and testing novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Tran
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
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Jang J, Quan Z, Yum YJ, Song HS, Paek S, Kang HC. Induced pluripotent stem cells for modeling of pediatric neurological disorders. Biotechnol J 2014; 9:871-81. [PMID: 24838856 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201400010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 03/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying childhood neurological disorders have remained obscure due to a lack of suitable disease models reflecting human pathogenesis. Using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, various neurological disorders can now be extensively modeled. Specifically, iPSC technology has aided the study and treatment of early-onset pediatric neurodegenerative diseases such as Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, Angelman syndrome. Prader-Willi syndrome, Friedreich's ataxia, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), fragile X syndrome, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), and SCN1A gene-related epilepsies. In this paper, we provide an overview of various gene delivery systems for generating iPSCs, the current state of modeling early-onset neurological disorders and the ultimate application of these in vitro models in cell therapy through the correction of disease-specific mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiho Jang
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Wright LS, Phillips MJ, Pinilla I, Hei D, Gamm DM. Induced pluripotent stem cells as custom therapeutics for retinal repair: progress and rationale. Exp Eye Res 2014; 123:161-72. [PMID: 24534198 PMCID: PMC4047146 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells have made a remarkable impact on science, technology and medicine by providing a potentially unlimited source of human cells for basic research and clinical applications. In recent years, knowledge gained from the study of human embryonic stem cells and mammalian somatic cell reprogramming has led to the routine production of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in laboratories worldwide. hiPSCs show promise for use in transplantation, high throughput drug screening, "disease-in-a-dish" modeling, disease gene discovery, and gene therapy testing. This review will focus on the first application, beginning with a discussion of methods for producing retinal lineage cells that are lost in inherited and acquired forms of retinal degenerative disease. The selection of appropriate hiPSC-derived donor cell type(s) for transplantation will be discussed, as will the caveats and prerequisite steps to formulating a clinical Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) product for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda S Wright
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - M Joseph Phillips
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Isabel Pinilla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lozano Blesa Hospital and Aragones Health Sciences Institute, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Derek Hei
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David M Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
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Roosing S, Thiadens AAHJ, Hoyng CB, Klaver CCW, den Hollander AI, Cremers FPM. Causes and consequences of inherited cone disorders. Prog Retin Eye Res 2014; 42:1-26. [PMID: 24857951 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2014.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary cone disorders (CDs) are characterized by defects of the cone photoreceptors or retinal pigment epithelium underlying the macula, and include achromatopsia (ACHM), cone dystrophy (COD), cone-rod dystrophy (CRD), color vision impairment, Stargardt disease (STGD) and other maculopathies. Forty-two genes have been implicated in non-syndromic inherited CDs. Mutations in the 5 genes implicated in ACHM explain ∼93% of the cases. On the contrary, only 21% of CRDs (17 genes) and 25% of CODs (8 genes) have been elucidated. The fact that the large majority of COD and CRD-associated genes are yet to be discovered hints towards the existence of unknown cone-specific or cone-sensitive processes. The ACHM-associated genes encode proteins that fulfill crucial roles in the cone phototransduction cascade, which is the most frequently compromised (10 genes) process in CDs. Another 7 CD-associated proteins are required for transport processes towards or through the connecting cilium. The remaining CD-associated proteins are involved in cell membrane morphogenesis and maintenance, synaptic transduction, and the retinoid cycle. Further novel genes are likely to be identified in the near future by combining large-scale DNA sequencing and transcriptomics technologies. For 31 of 42 CD-associated genes, mammalian models are available, 14 of which have successfully been used for gene augmentation studies. However, gene augmentation for CDs should ideally be developed in large mammalian models with cone-rich areas, which are currently available for only 11 CD genes. Future research will aim to elucidate the remaining causative genes, identify the molecular mechanisms of CD, and develop novel therapies aimed at preventing vision loss in individuals with CD in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Roosing
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Carel B Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline C W Klaver
- Department of Ophthalmology Erasmus Medical Centre, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke I den Hollander
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frans P M Cremers
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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70
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Assawachananont J, Mandai M, Okamoto S, Yamada C, Eiraku M, Yonemura S, Sasai Y, Takahashi M. Transplantation of embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived 3D retinal sheets into retinal degenerative mice. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 2:662-74. [PMID: 24936453 PMCID: PMC4050483 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In this article, we show that mouse embryonic stem cell- or induced pluripotent stem cell-derived 3D retinal tissue developed a structured outer nuclear layer (ONL) with complete inner and outer segments even in an advanced retinal degeneration model (rd1) that lacked ONL. We also observed host-graft synaptic connections by immunohistochemistry. This study provides a "proof of concept" for retinal sheet transplantation therapy for advanced retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juthaporn Assawachananont
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan ; Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okamoto
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan ; Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Chikako Yamada
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Mototsugu Eiraku
- Organogenesis and Neurogenesis Group, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Shigenobu Yonemura
- Electron Microscope Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Sasai
- Organogenesis and Neurogenesis Group, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
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71
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Abstract
Replacement or repair of a dysfunctional gene combined with promoting cell survival is a two-pronged approach that addresses an unmet need in the therapy of retinal degenerative diseases. In this chapter, we discuss various strategies toward achieving both goals: transplantation of wild-type cells to replace degenerating cells and to rescue gene function, sequential gene and cell therapy, and in vivo reprogramming of rods to cones. These approaches highlight cutting-edge advances in cell and gene therapy, and cellular lineage conversion in order to devise new therapies for various retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh C Rao
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Mich., USA
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72
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Yu H, Vu THK, Cho KS, Guo C, Chen DF. Mobilizing endogenous stem cells for retinal repair. Transl Res 2014; 163:387-98. [PMID: 24333552 PMCID: PMC3976683 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2013.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Irreversible vision loss is most often caused by the loss of function and subsequent death of retinal neurons, such as photoreceptor cells-the cells that initiate vision by capturing and transducing signals of light. One reason why retinal degenerative diseases are devastating is that, once retinal neurons are lost, they don't grow back. Stem cell-based cell replacement strategy for retinal degenerative diseases are leading the way in clinical trials of transplantation therapy, and the exciting findings in both human and animal models point to the possibility of restoring vision through a cell replacement regenerative approach. A less invasive method of retinal regeneration by mobilizing endogenous stem cells is, thus, highly desirable and promising for restoring vision. Although many obstacles remain to be overcome, the field of endogenous retinal repair is progressing at a rapid pace, with encouraging results in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghua Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Liuhuaqiao Hospital, Guangzhou, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Thi Hong Khanh Vu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Chenying Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass; VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Mass.
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73
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Roger JE, Hiriyanna A, Gotoh N, Hao H, Cheng DF, Ratnapriya R, Kautzmann MAI, Chang B, Swaroop A. OTX2 loss causes rod differentiation defect in CRX-associated congenital blindness. J Clin Invest 2014; 124:631-43. [PMID: 24382353 DOI: 10.1172/jci72722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) encompasses a set of early-onset blinding diseases that are characterized by vision loss, involuntary eye movement, and nonrecordable electroretinogram (ERG). At least 19 genes are associated with LCA, which is typically recessive; however, mutations in homeodomain transcription factor CRX lead to an autosomal dominant form of LCA. The mechanism of CRX-associated LCA is not understood. Here, we identified a spontaneous mouse mutant with a frameshift mutation in Crx (CrxRip). We determined that CrxRip is a dominant mutation that results in congenital blindness with nonrecordable response by ERG and arrested photoreceptor differentiation with no associated degeneration. Expression of LCA-associated dominant CRX frameshift mutations in mouse retina mimicked the CrxRip phenotype, which was rescued by overexpression of WT CRX. Whole-transcriptome profiling using deep RNA sequencing revealed progressive and complete loss of rod differentiation factor NRL in CrxRip retinas. Expression of NRL partially restored rod development in CrxRip/+ mice. We show that the binding of homeobox transcription factor OTX2 at the Nrl promoter was obliterated in CrxRip mice and ectopic expression of OTX2 rescued the rod differentiation defect. Together, our data indicate that OTX2 maintains Nrl expression in developing rods to consolidate rod fate. Our studies provide insights into CRX mutation-associated congenital blindness and should assist in therapeutic design.
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74
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Marchetto MC, Gage FH. Your brain under the microscope: the promise of stem cells. CEREBRUM : THE DANA FORUM ON BRAIN SCIENCE 2014; 2014:1. [PMID: 25009691 PMCID: PMC4087191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, scientists primarily worked with two kinds of stem cells from animals and humans: embryonic stem cells and non-embryonic "somatic" or "adult" stem cells. Scientists are just now beginning to improve their understanding of a third kind: induced pluripotent stem cells. Our authors describe how they were discovered, what they are, and why a growing number of researchers and clinicians believe that they may be one of the keys in helping address various brain disorders.
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75
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76
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Tucker BA, Mullins RF, Streb LM, Anfinson K, Eyestone ME, Kaalberg E, Riker MJ, Drack AV, Braun TA, Stone EM. Patient-specific iPSC-derived photoreceptor precursor cells as a means to investigate retinitis pigmentosa. eLife 2013; 2:e00824. [PMID: 23991284 PMCID: PMC3755341 DOI: 10.7554/elife.00824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-generation and Sanger sequencing were combined to identify disease-causing USH2A mutations in an adult patient with autosomal recessive RP. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), generated from the patient's keratinocytes, were differentiated into multi-layer eyecup-like structures with features of human retinal precursor cells. The inner layer of the eyecups contained photoreceptor precursor cells that expressed photoreceptor markers and exhibited axonemes and basal bodies characteristic of outer segments. Analysis of the USH2A transcripts of these cells revealed that one of the patient's mutations causes exonification of intron 40, a translation frameshift and a premature stop codon. Western blotting revealed upregulation of GRP78 and GRP94, suggesting that the patient's other USH2A variant (Arg4192His) causes disease through protein misfolding and ER stress. Transplantation into 4-day-old immunodeficient Crb1 (-/-) mice resulted in the formation of morphologically and immunohistochemically recognizable photoreceptor cells, suggesting that the mutations in this patient act via post-developmental photoreceptor degeneration. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00824.001.
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Affiliation(s)
- Budd A Tucker
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Luan M Streb
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Kristin Anfinson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Mari E Eyestone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Emily Kaalberg
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Megan J Riker
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Arlene V Drack
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Terry A Braun
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
| | - Edwin M Stone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, United States
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77
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Leung E, Landa G. Update on current and future novel therapies for dry age-related macular degeneration. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2013; 6:565-79. [PMID: 23971874 DOI: 10.1586/17512433.2013.829645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in developed countries. There are currently no cures, but there are promising potential therapies that target the underlying disease mechanisms of dry ARMD. Stem cells, ciliary neurotrophic factor, rheopheresis, ozonated autohemotherapy and prostaglandins show promise in stabilizing or improving visual acuity. Age-Related Eye Disease Study vitamins may reduce progression to severe ARMD. Adjuvant therapy like low vision rehabilitation and implantable miniature telescopes may help patients adjust to the sequelae of their disease, and herbal supplementation with saffron, zinc monocysteine and phototrop may be helpful. Therapies that are currently in clinical trials include brimonidine, doxycycline, anti-amyloid antibodies (GSK933776 and RN6G), RPE65 inhibitor (ACU-4429), complement inhibitors (ARC1905, FCFD4514S), hydroxychloroquine, intravitreal fluocinolone acetate and vasodilators like sildenafil, moxaverine and MC-1101. Therapies that have not been shown to be effective include POT-4, eculizumab, tandospirone, anecortave acetate, the antioxidant OT-551, sirolimus and vitamin E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Leung
- Department of Ophthalmology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NY, USA
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