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Cai W, Guo X, Wang W, Xiong K, Han X, Gong X, Yuan M, Li Y, Liang X, Liu Y, Huang W. Two-Year Choroidal Thickness Attenuation and Its Associations in Healthy Chinese Adults. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:21. [PMID: 35737377 PMCID: PMC9233293 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.6.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Identifying clinical associations causing attenuation in choroidal thickness (CT) among healthy Chinese adults. Methods A 2-year longitudinal study was conducted in volunteers aged over 30 years from China. All participants had no history of eye disease or surgery. All subjects underwent swept-source optical coherence tomography to measure the CT in the macular region at baseline and at 2-year follow-up. The regression models were based on the generalized estimating equation. Results A total of 603 eyes of 336 healthy participants were included in the final analysis (mean [SD] age, 58.88 [8.82] years; 74.70% female). Mean (SD) choroidal thickness (MCT) was reduced significantly from 206.62 (72.42) to 194.02 (72.08) µm (difference, −12.60 µm; 95% confidence interval [CI], −13.62 to −11.57). Among the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) grid, CT at the subfoveal sector showed the greatest 2-year reduction (difference, −14.55 µm; 95% CI, −15.87 to −13.22). The largest 2-year change was observed in the 50 to 59 years group (difference, −14.51 µm; 95% CI, −16.71 to −12.32). Multivariate regression showed female gender (β = −2.85; 95% CI, −5.65 to −0.56) and baseline MCT (β = −0.040; 95% CI, −0.056 to −0.024) were significantly and independently associated with greater 2-year CT decrease. Conclusions These results indicated that CT among Chinese healthy adults decreased during the 2-year follow-up, and the greater choroidal thinning rate was significantly associated with female gender and larger baseline MCT. Translational Relevance Longitudinal CT data of healthy adults provide a reference range when evaluating pathologic variations, especially for the age-related retinal-choroidal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Cai
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Guo
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Xiong
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaotong Han
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Gong
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Yuan
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuting Li
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoling Liang
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yizhi Liu
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyong Huang
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Mcharg S, Booth L, Perveen R, Riba Garcia I, Brace N, Bayatti N, Sergouniotis PI, Phillips AM, Day AJ, Black GCM, Clark SJ, Dowsey AW, Unwin RD, Bishop PN. Mast cell infiltration of the choroid and protease release are early events in age-related macular degeneration associated with genetic risk at both chromosomes 1q32 and 10q26. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2118510119. [PMID: 35561216 PMCID: PMC9171765 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2118510119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of visual loss. It has a strong genetic basis, and common haplotypes on chromosome (Chr) 1 (CFH Y402H variant) and on Chr10 (near HTRA1/ARMS2) contribute the most risk. Little is known about the early molecular and cellular processes in AMD, and we hypothesized that analyzing submacular tissue from older donors with genetic risk but without clinical features of AMD would provide biological insights. Therefore, we used mass spectrometry–based quantitative proteomics to compare the proteins in human submacular stromal tissue punches from donors who were homozygous for high-risk alleles at either Chr1 or Chr10 with those from donors who had protective haplotypes at these loci, all without clinical features of AMD. Additional comparisons were made with tissue from donors who were homozygous for high-risk Chr1 alleles and had early AMD. The Chr1 and Chr10 risk groups shared common changes compared with the low-risk group, particularly increased levels of mast cell–specific proteases, including tryptase, chymase, and carboxypeptidase A3. Histological analyses of submacular tissue from donors with genetic risk of AMD but without clinical features of AMD and from donors with Chr1 risk and AMD demonstrated increased mast cells, particularly the tryptase-positive/chymase-negative cells variety, along with increased levels of denatured collagen compared with tissue from low–genetic risk donors. We conclude that increased mast cell infiltration of the inner choroid, degranulation, and subsequent extracellular matrix remodeling are early events in AMD pathogenesis and represent a unifying mechanistic link between Chr1- and Chr10-mediated AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Mcharg
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Booth
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Rahat Perveen
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Riba Garcia
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NY, United Kingdom
| | - Nicole Brace
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Nadhim Bayatti
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Panagiotis I. Sergouniotis
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander M. Phillips
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GJ, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony J. Day
- Division of Cell-Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme C. M. Black
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J. Clark
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- University Eye Clinic, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen 72076, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen 72076, Germany
| | - Andrew W. Dowsey
- Department of Population Health Sciences and Bristol Veterinary School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Richard D. Unwin
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NY, United Kingdom
- Stoller Biomarker Discovery Centre and Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NQ, United Kingdom
| | - Paul N. Bishop
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
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Genetic Variants of Complement Factor H Y402H (rs1061170), C2 R102G (rs2230199), and C3 E318D (rs9332739) and Response to Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Treatment in Patients with Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58050658. [PMID: 35630075 PMCID: PMC9145696 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58050658] [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: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To assess the association between the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding complement factors CFH, C2, and C3 (Y402H rs1061170, R102G rs2230199, and E318D rs9332739, respectively) and response to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Materials and Methods: The study included 111 patients with exudative AMD treated with intravitreal bevacizumab or ranibizumab injections. Response to therapy was assessed on the basis of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) measured every 4 weeks for 12 months. The control group included 58 individuals without AMD. The SNPs were genotyped by a real-time polymerase chain reaction in genomic DNA isolated from peripheral blood samples. Results: The CC genotype in SNP rs1061170 of the CFH gene was more frequent in patients with AMD than in controls (p = 0.0058). It was also more common among the 28 patients (25.2%) with poor response to therapy compared with good responders (p = 0.0002). Poor responders, especially those without this genotype, benefited from switching to another anti-VEGF drug. At the last follow-up assessment, carriers of this genotype had significantly worse BCVA (p = 0.0350) and greater CRT (p = 0.0168) than noncarriers. TT genotype carriers showed improved BCVA (p = 0.0467) and reduced CRT compared with CC and CT genotype carriers (p = 0.0194). No associations with AMD or anti-VEGF therapy outcomes for SNP rs9332739 in the C2 gene and SNP rs2230199 in the C3 gene were found. Conclusions: The CC genotype for SNP rs1061170 in the CFH gene was associated with AMD in our population. Additionally, it promoted a poor response to anti-VEGF therapy. On the other hand, TT genotype carriers showed better functional and anatomical response to anti-VEGF therapy at 12 months than carriers of the other genotypes for this SNP.
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Mulfaul K, Mullin NK, Giacalone JC, Voigt AP, DeVore M, Stone EM, Tucker BA, Mullins RF. Local factor H production by human choroidal endothelial cells mitigates complement deposition: implications for macular degeneration. J Pathol 2022; 257:29-38. [PMID: 35038170 PMCID: PMC9007903 DOI: 10.1002/path.5867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the alternative complement pathway is an initiating event in the pathology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Unchecked complement activation leads to the formation of a pro-lytic pore, the membrane attack complex (MAC). MAC deposition is observed on the choriocapillaris of AMD patients and likely causes lysis of choroidal endothelial cells (CECs). Complement factor H (FH, encoded by the gene CFH) is an inhibitor of complement. Both loss of function of FH and reduced choroidal levels of FH have been reported in AMD. It is plausible that reduced local FH availability promotes MAC deposition on CECs. FH is produced primarily in the liver; however, cells including the retinal pigment epithelium can produce FH locally. We hypothesized that CECs produce FH locally to protect against MAC deposition. We aimed to investigate the effect of reduced FH levels in the choroid to determine whether increasing local FH could protect CECs from MAC deposition. We demonstrated that siRNA knockdown of FH (CFH) in human immortalized CECs results in increased MAC deposition. We generated AMD iPSC-derived CECs and found that overexpression of FH protects against MAC deposition. These results suggest that local CEC-produced FH protects against MAC deposition, and that increasing local FH protein may be beneficial in limiting MAC deposition in AMD. © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Mulfaul
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nathaniel K. Mullin
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Joseph C. Giacalone
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Andrew P. Voigt
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Melette DeVore
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Edwin M. Stone
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Budd A. Tucker
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Robert F. Mullins
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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55
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Papp A, Papp K, Uzonyi B, Cserhalmi M, Csincsi ÁI, Szabó Z, Bánlaki Z, Ermert D, Prohászka Z, Erdei A, Ferreira VP, Blom AM, Józsi M. Complement Factor H-Related Proteins FHR1 and FHR5 Interact With Extracellular Matrix Ligands, Reduce Factor H Regulatory Activity and Enhance Complement Activation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:845953. [PMID: 35392081 PMCID: PMC8980529 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.845953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), when exposed to body fluids may promote local complement activation and inflammation. Pathologic complement activation at the glomerular basement membrane and at the Bruch's membrane is implicated in renal and eye diseases, respectively. Binding of soluble complement inhibitors to the ECM, including factor H (FH), is important to prevent excessive complement activation. Since the FH-related (FHR) proteins FHR1 and FHR5 are also implicated in these diseases, our aim was to study whether these FHRs can also bind to ECM components and affect local FH activity and complement activation. Both FH and the FHRs showed variable binding to ECM components. We identified laminin, fibromodulin, osteoadherin and PRELP as ligands of FHR1 and FHR5, and found that FHR1 bound to these ECM components through its C-terminal complement control protein (CCP) domains 4-5, whereas FHR5 bound via its middle region, CCPs 3-7. Aggrecan, biglycan and decorin did not bind FH, FHR1 and FHR5. FHR5 also bound to immobilized C3b, a model of surface-deposited C3b, via CCPs 3-7. By contrast, soluble C3, C3(H2O), and the C3 fragments C3b, iC3b and C3d bound to CCPs 8-9 of FHR5. Properdin, which was previously described to bind via CCPs 1-2 to FHR5, did not bind in its physiologically occurring serum forms in our assays. FHR1 and FHR5 inhibited the binding of FH to the identified ECM proteins in a dose-dependent manner, which resulted in reduced FH cofactor activity. Moreover, both FHR1 and FHR5 enhanced alternative complement pathway activation on immobilized ECM proteins when exposed to human serum, resulting in the increased deposition of C3-fragments, factor B and C5b-9. Thus, our results identify novel ECM ligands of FH family proteins and indicate that FHR1 and FHR5 are competitive inhibitors of FH on ECM and, when bound to these ligands, they may enhance local complement activation and promote inflammation under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Papp
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Papp
- MTA-ELTE Immunology Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Uzonyi
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,MTA-ELTE Immunology Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marcell Cserhalmi
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám I Csincsi
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsóka Szabó
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Bánlaki
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - David Ermert
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmo, Sweden
| | - Zoltán Prohászka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Research Group for Immunology and Haematology, Semmelweis University-Eötvös Loránd Research Network (Office for Supported Research Groups), Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Erdei
- MTA-ELTE Immunology Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viviana P Ferreira
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Anna M Blom
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmo, Sweden
| | - Mihály Józsi
- MTA-ELTE Complement Research Group, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Immunology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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Le HM, Souied EH, Halouani S, Borrelli E, Chapron T, Querques G, Miere A. Quantitative Analysis of Choriocapillaris Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Eyes with Angioid Streaks. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082134. [PMID: 35456229 PMCID: PMC9026537 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: to quantitatively analyze choriocapillaris perfusion using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) in eyes presenting with angioid streaks in comparison with control eyes. Methods: Macular 6 × 6 mm SS-OCTA scans were retrospectively analyzed in eyes with angioid streaks and in control eyes. En face choriocapillaris flow images were compensated with en face choriocapillaris structure images, followed by the Phansalkar local thresholding method (with a window radius of four and eight pixels). Quantitative analysis was performed in the four peripheral 1 × 1 mm corners of the 6 × 6 mm SS-OCTA image to include equidistant and comparable regions. The percentage of flow deficits (FD%), the number and size of the flow deficits (FDs) and the total area of FDs were then calculated. Results: 54 eyes of 31 patients were included in the study: 27 eyes diagnosed with angioid streaks and 27 controls. Analysis of the four 1 × 1 mm peripheral corners of the 6 × 6 mm SS-OCTA image showed that eyes with angioid streaks had a higher FD% compared to the control group (47.62 ± 8.06 versus 38.90 ± 6.38 using a radius of four pixels (p < 0.001); 48.37 ± 7.65 versus 39.66 ± 6.51 using a radius of eight pixels (p < 0.001). The average size of FDs as well as the total area size of the FDs were significantly higher in eyes with angioid streaks compared to control eyes (p < 0.001). Eyes with angioid streaks present reduced choriocapillaris flow compared to control eyes. Decreased choriocapillaris perfusion may contribute, among other factors, to the development of neovascularization and atrophy in patients with angioid streaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Mai Le
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, 94000 Créteil, France; (H.M.L.); (E.H.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Eric H. Souied
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, 94000 Créteil, France; (H.M.L.); (E.H.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Safa Halouani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, 94000 Créteil, France; (H.M.L.); (E.H.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Enrico Borrelli
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.B.); (G.Q.)
| | - Thibaut Chapron
- Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, 75019 Paris, France;
| | - Giuseppe Querques
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy; (E.B.); (G.Q.)
| | - Alexandra Miere
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, 94000 Créteil, France; (H.M.L.); (E.H.S.); (S.H.)
- Correspondence:
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57
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Wagner BD, Patnaik JL, Palestine AG, Frazer-Abel AA, Baldermann R, Holers VM, Mathias MT, Mandava N, Lynch AM. Association of Systemic Inflammatory Factors with Progression to Advanced Age-related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2022; 29:139-148. [PMID: 33827374 PMCID: PMC8497647 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2021.1910314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly. The role of systemic inflammation in AMD remains unclear specifically in patients with intermediate AMD (iAMD). We sought to determine whether systemic inflammation was associated with future iAMD progression. METHODS Combinations of 27 circulating inflammatory markers including complement factors, cytokines, chemokines, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were evaluated in iAMD patients recruited into a Colorado AMD registry. Systemic inflammatory markers were combined using principal component analysis. Risk factors for AMD progression were evaluated using Cox regression models. RESULTS This study included 99 subjects with iAMD, 21 of which progressed to advanced AMD. Two principal components (PCs) were identified that contributed to the risk of progression to advanced AMD, after adjusting for age and bilateral reticular pseudodrusen. The strongest associated PC was explained largely by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα and the anti-inflammatory IL1ra antagonist of IL1. The additional PC was largely explained by IL6, IL8, C3 and factor D in the positive direction and CRP, MCP1, factor B and factor I in the negative direction. CONCLUSION When evaluated through multivariate analyses, combinations of biomarkers distinguished patients who did and did not progress to future advanced AMD. Increased risk could result from different combinations of analyte levels indicating a complex relationship rather than a simple increase in a few markers. This suggests that studying systemic inflammation in iAMD can provide insights into early pathologic events and potentially identify patients at highest risk for the development of severe AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandie D. Wagner
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Patnaik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Alan G. Palestine
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Rebecca Baldermann
- Colorado Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - V. Michael Holers
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Marc T. Mathias
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Naresh Mandava
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Anne M. Lynch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Tzoumas N, Kavanagh D, Cordell HJ, Lotery AJ, Patel PJ, Steel DH. Rare complement factor I variants associated with reduced macular thickness and age-related macular degeneration in the UK biobank. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:2678-2692. [PMID: 35285476 PMCID: PMC9402241 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), we identified 8433 UK Biobank participants with rare complement Factor I gene (CFI) variants, 579 with optical coherence tomography-derived macular thickness data. We stratified these variants by predicted gene expression and measured their association with retinal pigment epithelium-Bruch’s membrane (RPE-BM) complex and retinal thicknesses at nine macular subfields, as well as AMD risk, using multivariable regression models adjusted for the common complement Factor H gene (CFH) p.Y402H and age-related maculopathy susceptibility protein 2 gene (ARMS2) p.A69S risk genotypes. CFI variants associated with low Factor I levels predicted a thinner mean RPE-BM (95% confidence interval [CI] −1.66 to −0.37 μm, P = 0.002) and retina (95% CI −5.88 to −0.13 μm, P = 0.04) and a higher AMD risk (odds ratio [OR] = 2.26, 95% CI 1.56 to 3.27, P < 0.001). CFI variants associated with normal Factor I levels did not impact mean RPE-BM/retinal thickness (P = 0.28; P = 0.99) or AMD risk (P = 0.97). CFH p.Y402H was associated with a thinner RPE-BM (95% CI −0.31 to −0.18 μm, P < 0.001 heterozygous; 95% CI −0.62 to −0.42 μm, P < 0.001 homozygous) and retina (95% CI −0.73 to −0.12 μm, P = 0.007 heterozygous; 95% CI −1.08 to −0.21 μm, P = 0.004 homozygous). ARMS2 p.A69S did not influence RPE-BM (P = 0.80 heterozygous; P = 0.12 homozygous) or retinal thickness (P = 0.75 heterozygous; P = 0.07 homozygous). p.Y402H and p.A69S exhibited a significant allele–dose response with AMD risk. Thus, CFI rare variants associated with low Factor I levels are robust predictors of reduced macular thickness and AMD. The observed association between macular thickness and CFH p.Y402H, but not ARMS2 p.A69S, highlights the importance of complement dysregulation in early pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Tzoumas
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David Kavanagh
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Heather J Cordell
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Lotery
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Praveen J Patel
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - David H Steel
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom
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59
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Cabrera AP, Stoddard J, Santiago Tierno I, Matisioudis N, Agarwal M, Renner L, Palegar N, Neuringer M, McGill T, Ghosh K. Increased cell stiffness contributes to complement-mediated injury of choroidal endothelial cells in a monkey model of early age-related macular degeneration. J Pathol 2022; 257:314-326. [PMID: 35239183 DOI: 10.1002/path.5892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the aging population. Yet, no therapies exist for approximately 85% of all AMD patients who have the dry form that is marked by degeneration of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) and underlying choroidal vasculature. As the choroidal vessels are crucial for RPE development and maintenance, understanding how they degenerate may lead to effective therapies for dry AMD. One likely causative factor for choroidal vascular loss is the cytolytic membrane attack complex (MAC) of the complement pathway that is abundant on choroidal vessels of humans with early dry AMD. To examine this possibility, we studied the effect of complement activation on choroidal endothelial cells (ECs) isolated from a rhesus monkey model of early AMD that, we report, exhibits MAC deposition and choriocapillaris endothelial loss similar to that seen in human early AMD. Treatment of choroidal ECs from AMD eyes with complement-competent normal human serum caused extensive actin cytoskeletal injury that was significantly less pronounced in choroidal ECs from young normal monkey eyes. We further show that ECs from AMD eyes are significantly stiffer than their younger counterparts and exhibit peripheral actin organization that is distinct from the longitudinal stress fibers in young ECs. Finally, these differences in complement susceptibility and mechanostructural properties were found to be regulated by the differential activity of the small GTPases Rac and Rho, because Rac inhibition in AMD cells led to simultaneous reduction in stiffness and complement susceptibility while Rho inhibition in young cells exacerbated complement injury. Thus, by identifying cell stiffness and cytoskeletal regulators Rac and Rho as important determinants of complement susceptibility, the current findings offer a new mechanistic insight into choroidal vascular loss in early AMD that warrants further investigation for assessment of translational potential. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea P Cabrera
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Stoddard
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Irene Santiago Tierno
- Department of Ophthalmology and Integrated Physiology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Molecular, Cellular, and Integrated Physiology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | | | - Mahesh Agarwal
- Department of Ophthalmology and Integrated Physiology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Renner
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Neha Palegar
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Martha Neuringer
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, OR, USA.,Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Trevor McGill
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, OR, USA.,Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kaustabh Ghosh
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology and Integrated Physiology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Molecular, Cellular, and Integrated Physiology Interdepartmental PhD Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA
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60
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Zhao TT, Wen-Fei W, Kun G, Si-Ming L, Ye J, Yang ZF, Jian-Nan L, Yan-Li W, Shao-Min P. Fibroblast growth factor-21 alleviates phenotypic characteristics of dry age-related macular degeneration in mice. Exp Eye Res 2022; 218:109014. [PMID: 35245515 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109014] [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: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the main cause of blindness in elderly individuals. As a metabolic regulator, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) has been proven indicated to have an effect on wet AMD, but whether this cytokine has a therapeutic effect on dry AMD is unclear. The current study aimed to evaluate the preventive effects of FGF-21 against retinal degeneration in mice and provide mechanistic insights. FGF-21-/- mice were raised to 10 months of age. Then, the morphological changes in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid of the mice were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and iTRAQ was used to detect the variations in the protein profile. Next, FGF-21-/- and wild-type mice of the same age were fed hydroquinone to generate a dry AMD mouse model to examine whether exogenous FGF-21 can interfere with the occurrence and development of dry AMD. In vivo studies revealed that following FGF-21 knockout, there was an increase in the expression of complement in the RPE/choroid concomitant with the occurrence of dry AMD-like pathological changes. Furthermore, exogenous FGF-21 administration effectively reversed this phenomenon. FGF-21 also demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory effects in the RPE/choroid by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that FGF-21 treatment presents a novel therapeutic approach for the prevention and development of dry AMD by reducing complement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Zhao
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410015, China; Harbin Aier Eye Hospital, Harbin, 150016, China.
| | - Wang Wen-Fei
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Gao Kun
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Li Si-Ming
- Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China.
| | - Jiang Ye
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Zhi-Feng Yang
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Liu Jian-Nan
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410015, China; Harbin Aier Eye Hospital, Harbin, 150016, China.
| | - Wang Yan-Li
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Peng Shao-Min
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410015, China; Harbin Aier Eye Hospital, Harbin, 150016, China; Aier Retina Institute, Changsha, 410015, China.
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61
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Mukhopadhyay C, Boyce TM, Gehrs KM, Folk JC, Mullins RF, Luo Y, Kreder K, Sohn EH. Age-Related Macular Degeneration Masquerade: A Review of Pentosan Polysulfate Maculopathy and Implications for Clinical Practice. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2022; 11:100-110. [PMID: 35533330 PMCID: PMC9096915 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pentosan polysulfate (PPS) sodium (Elmiron) is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved oral medication to treat interstitial cystitis, also known as bladder pain syndrome. A symptomatic pigmentary maculopathy associated with PPS was reported in 2018. Since then, recognition of this unique drug toxicity has increased rapidly. This potentially sight-threatening side effect prompted the FDA in June 2020 to update the label for PPS to warn about "retinal pigmentary changes." A challenging feature of pentosan maculopathy is its ability to mimic many other retinal conditions, including inherited retinal dystrophies such as pattern dystrophy, mitochondrially inherited diabetes and deafness, and Stargardt disease, and age-related macular degeneration. In this review, we discuss the history of PPS maculopathy and its implications for thousands of at-risk interstitial cystitis patients. We use published literature and an illustrative case from our institution to highlight the importance of diagnosing PPS maculopathy. We also compare PPS maculopathy to age-related macular degeneration, explain why differentiating between the 2 is clinically important, and highlight avenues for further research. Finally, we highlight the paucity of data on patients of color and why this lack of understanding may impact patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirantan Mukhopadhyay
- Institute for Vision Research, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Timothy M Boyce
- Institute for Vision Research, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Karen M Gehrs
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - James C Folk
- Institute for Vision Research, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Institute for Vision Research, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Urology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Karl Kreder
- Department of Urology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
| | - Elliott H Sohn
- Institute for Vision Research, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, US
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62
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Samelska K, Kupis M, Izdebska J, Kaminska A, Skopiński P. Novel approach to antiangiogenic factors in age-related macular degeneration therapy. Cent Eur J Immunol 2022; 47:117-123. [PMID: 35600160 PMCID: PMC9115594 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2022.113103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss among the population above 85 worldwide. There are two main types of AMD: neovascular and dry AMD. Neovascular AMD leads to macular changes resulting from abnormal choroidal neovascularization. Untreated neovascular AMD leads to scar formation and irreversible sight deterioration. Dry AMD in consequence leads to atrophic changes of the macula. The last decades brought a breakthrough in the therapy of neovascular age-related macular degeneration by introduction of, firstly, photodynamic therapy and, later, anti-VEGF agents administered intravitreally in order to stop neoangiogenesis. However, the treatment of dry AMD is still challenging. Among the directions in dry AMD treatment, the most promising are complement cascade inhibitors and complement cascade targeted gene therapy. In the article we outline the main directions in up-to-date experimental and practical approaches to wet and dry AMD therapy with the emphasis on antiangiogenic factors and gene therapy focused on the inhibition of pathological angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Samelska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kupis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Izdebska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Kaminska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Skopiński
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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63
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Complement activation by RPE cells preexposed to TNFα and IFNγ. Exp Eye Res 2022; 218:108982. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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64
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Markan A, Neupane S, Agrawal R, Gupta V. Newer therapeutic agents for retinal diseases. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2022.2030709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Markan
- Advanced Eye Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Swechya Neupane
- Advanced Eye Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Rupesh Agrawal
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Sen Hospital, Novena, Singapore
| | - Vishali Gupta
- Advanced Eye Centre, Department of Ophthalmology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
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65
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Nag TC, Gorla S, Kumari C, Roy TS. Aging of the human choriocapillaris: Evidence that early pericyte damage can trigger endothelial changes. Exp Eye Res 2021; 212:108771. [PMID: 34624336 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The choriocapillaris (CC), the capillary bed in the choroid, essentially nourishes the photoreceptor cells. Its damage in aging and age-related diseases significantly influences the survival of the photoreceptor cells. Earlier reports implicated endothelial loss in aged and diseased CC; however, age-related pericyte changes and their contribution in CC death remain unknown. We examined human donor eyes (age: 56-94 years; N = 24), and found that CC pericyte damage preceded endothelial changes. With aging (>70 years), the sub-macular choroid accumulated debris in Bruch's membrane (BM). Of the debris content, the long-spaced collagens had a tendency to settle over the capillary basal lamina (BL), and this often resulted in endothelial projection into capillary lumen. Between 75 and 83 years, pericytes contained dark mitochondria, and their processes facing the BM debris showed partial loss of BL and intermediate filaments (IFs), when the endothelium remained unaltered. The endothelial changes appeared beyond 83 years, the abundance of IFs and autophagy reinforced their survival until late aging. TUNEL+ pericytes, and immunoreactivity to carboxymethyl lysine and 4-hydroxy 2-nonenal, but no nitro-tyrosine, was detected in aged CC walls. Iba-1+ dystrophic microglia were present in the vicinity of the CC. Our data indicate that (1) BM debris exerts pressure on the CC, leading to the damage of the capillary BL and pericyte processes (2) loss of IFs results in early pericyte destabilization (3) capillary wall undergoes lipid peroxidative and glycative damage, and (4) pericyte damage leads to late endothelial changes and ultimately CC loss. Future research should explore the normal ways of pericyte maintenance in the aging nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapas Chandra Nag
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
| | - Shilpa Gorla
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Chiman Kumari
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Tara Sankar Roy
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
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66
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Liu YV, Konar G, Aziz K, Tun SBB, Hua CHE, Tan B, Tian J, Luu CD, Barathi VA, Singh MS. Localized Structural and Functional Deficits in a Nonhuman Primate Model of Outer Retinal Atrophy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:8. [PMID: 34643661 PMCID: PMC8525844 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.13.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cell-based therapy development for geographic atrophy (GA) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is hampered by the paucity of models of localized photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration. We aimed to characterize the structural and functional deficits in a laser-induced nonhuman primate model, including an analysis of the choroid. Methods Macular laser photocoagulation was applied in four macaques. Fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), dye angiography, and OCT-angiography were conducted over 4.5 months, with histological correlation. Longitudinal changes in spatially resolved macular dysfunction were measured using multifocal electroretinography (MFERG). Results Lesion features, depending on laser settings, included photoreceptor layer degeneration, inner retinal sparing, skip lesions, RPE elevation, and neovascularization. The intralesional choroid was degenerated. The normalized mean MFERG amplitude within lesions was consistently lower than control regions (0.94 ± 0.35 vs. 1.10 ± 0.27, P = 0.032 at month 1, 0.67 ± 0.22 vs. 0.83 ± 0.15, P = 0.0002 at month 2, and 0.97 ± 0.31 vs. 1.20 ± 0.21, P < 0.0001 at month 3.5). The intertest variation of mean MFERG amplitudes in rings 1 to 5 ranged from 13.0% to 26.0% in normal eyes. Conclusions Laser application in this model caused localized outer retinal, RPE, and choriocapillaris loss. Localized dysfunction was apparent by MFERG in the first month after lesion induction. Correlative structure-function testing may be useful for research on the functional effects of stem cell-based therapy for GA. MFERG amplitude data should be interpreted in the context of relatively high intertest variability of the rings that correspond to the central macula. Sustained choroidal insufficiency may limit long-term subretinal graft viability in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying V Liu
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Gregory Konar
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Kanza Aziz
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Sai Bo Bo Tun
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Candice Ho Ee Hua
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bingyao Tan
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore, Singapore.,SERI-NTU Advanced Ocular Engineering (STANCE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, United States
| | - Chi D Luu
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Victoria, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Veluchamy A Barathi
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore, Singapore.,Academic Clinical Program in Ophthalmology, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mandeep S Singh
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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67
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Yılmaz M, Polat OA, Karayiğit DZ, Ayyıldız T. Choroidal vascularity index and choroidal thickness changes in patients with allergic asthma. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2021; 36:102494. [PMID: 34450328 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2021.102494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate whether the choroidal vascularity index (CVI), choroidal thickness (ChT), and retinal nerve fiber thickness (RNFL) of patients with allergic asthma change compared to the healthy control group. METHODS This cross-sectional, observational study comprised 59 eyes of 59 patients with allergic asthma (Group 1) and 50 eyes of 50 age and sex-matched healthy volunteers as a control group (Group 2). CVI was measured by binarization of images obtained from choroidal enhanced depth imaging (EDI) mode optic coherence tomography. CVI was defined as the ratio of the choroidal luminal area to the total circumscribed choroidal area. ChT was measured manually at 3 points, subfoveal and 1000 microns nasal and temporal to the fovea (SFCT, N1000, and T1000 respectively). RNFL measurements were subdivided as global, nasal, temporal, superonasal, superotemporal, inferonasal, and inferotemporal quadrants. RESULTS Subfoveal CVI and ChT were significantly lower in asthma patients (p:0,043 and p: 0.034, respectively). N1000 and T1000 ChT and RNFL thicknesses were lower in asthma patients compared to the control group, though no significant difference was found between them (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that asthma patients have choroidal structural changes. In the literature, there are not enough studies regarding the effects of asthma on ocular parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mevlüt Yılmaz
- Ulucanlar Eye Research and Training Hospital, Ophthalmology Department, 06100 Altındag, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Osman Ahmet Polat
- Erciyes University Medical Faculty Ophthalmology Department Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Duygu Zorlu Karayiğit
- Ahi Evran University Medical Faculty, Department of Pulmonary Diseases Kırşehir, Turkey
| | - Taha Ayyıldız
- Bursa City Hospital, Ophthalmology Department, Bursa, Turkey
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68
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Armento A, Schmidt TL, Sonntag I, Merle DA, Jarboui MA, Kilger E, Clark SJ, Ueffing M. CFH Loss in Human RPE Cells Leads to Inflammation and Complement System Dysregulation via the NF-κB Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168727. [PMID: 34445430 PMCID: PMC8396051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly, is a degenerative disease of the macula, where retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells are damaged in the early stages of the disease, and chronic inflammatory processes may be involved. Besides aging and lifestyle factors as drivers of AMD, a strong genetic association to AMD is found in genes of the complement system, with a single polymorphism in the complement factor H gene (CFH), accounting for the majority of AMD risk. However, the exact mechanism of CFH dysregulation confers such a great risk for AMD and its role in RPE cell homeostasis is unclear. To explore the role of endogenous CFH locally in RPE cells, we silenced CFH in human hTERT-RPE1 cells. We demonstrate that endogenously expressed CFH in RPE cells modulates inflammatory cytokine production and complement regulation, independent of external complement sources, or stressors. We show that loss of the factor H protein (FH) results in increased levels of inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF) and altered levels of complement proteins (e.g., C3, CFB upregulation, and C5 downregulation) that are known to play a role in AMD. Moreover, our results identify the NF-κB pathway as the major pathway involved in regulating these inflammatory and complement factors. Our findings suggest that in RPE cells, FH and the NF-κB pathway work in synergy to maintain inflammatory and complement balance, and in case either one of them is dysregulated, the RPE microenvironment changes towards a proinflammatory AMD-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Armento
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (M.U.); Tel.: +49-7071-29-84953 (A.A.)
| | - Tiziana L. Schmidt
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Inga Sonntag
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - David A. Merle
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Mohamed Ali Jarboui
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Ellen Kilger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Simon J. Clark
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (T.L.S.); (I.S.); (D.A.M.); (M.A.J.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (M.U.); Tel.: +49-7071-29-84953 (A.A.)
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Lejoyeux R, Benillouche J, Ong J, Errera MH, Rossi EA, Singh SR, Dansingani KK, da Silva S, Sinha D, Sahel JA, Freund KB, Sadda SR, Lutty GA, Chhablani J. Choriocapillaris: Fundamentals and advancements. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100997. [PMID: 34293477 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The choriocapillaris is the innermost structure of the choroid that directly nourishes the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors. This article provides an overview of its hemovasculogenesis development to achieve its final architecture as a lobular vasculature, and also summarizes the current histological and molecular knowledge about choriocapillaris and its dysfunction. After describing the existing state-of-the-art tools to image the choriocapillaris, we report the findings in the choriocapillaris encountered in the most frequent retinochoroidal diseases including vascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, myopia, pachychoroid disease spectrum disorders, and glaucoma. The final section focuses on the development of imaging technology to optimize visualization of the choriocapillaris as well as current treatments of retinochoroidal disorders that specifically target the choriocapillaris. We conclude the article with pertinent unanswered questions and future directions in research for the choriocapillaris.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joshua Ong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Marie-Hélène Errera
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ethan A Rossi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Sumit R Singh
- Jacobs Retina Center, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kunal K Dansingani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Susana da Silva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Debasish Sinha
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Rothschild Foundation, 75019, Paris, France; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France; CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France
| | - K Bailey Freund
- LuEsther T. Mertz Retinal Research Center, Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, New York University of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - SriniVas R Sadda
- Doheny Image Reading Center, Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gerard A Lutty
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Brinks J, van Dijk EHC, Klaassen I, Schlingemann RO, Kielbasa SM, Emri E, Quax PHA, Bergen AA, Meijer OC, Boon CJF. Exploring the choroidal vascular labyrinth and its molecular and structural roles in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100994. [PMID: 34280556 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The choroid is a key player in maintaining ocular homeostasis and plays a role in a variety of chorioretinal diseases, many of which are poorly understood. Recent advances in the field of single-cell RNA sequencing have yielded valuable insights into the properties of choroidal endothelial cells (CECs). Here, we review the role of the choroid in various physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, focusing on the role of CECs. We also discuss new insights regarding the phenotypic properties of CECs, CEC subpopulations, and the value of measuring transcriptomics in primary CEC cultures derived from post-mortem eyes. In addition, we discuss key phenotypic, structural, and functional differences that distinguish CECs from other endothelial cells such as retinal vascular endothelial cells. Understanding the specific clinical and molecular properties of the choroid will shed new light on the pathogenesis of the broad clinical range of chorioretinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, central serous chorioretinopathy and other diseases within the pachychoroid spectrum, uveitis, and diabetic choroidopathy. Although our knowledge is still relatively limited with respect to the clinical features and molecular pathways that underlie these chorioretinal diseases, we summarise new approaches and discuss future directions for gaining new insights into these sight-threatening diseases and highlight new therapeutic strategies such as pluripotent stem cell‒based technologies and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brinks
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E H C van Dijk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - I Klaassen
- Ocular Angiogenesis Group, Departments of Ophthalmology and Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R O Schlingemann
- Ocular Angiogenesis Group, Departments of Ophthalmology and Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - S M Kielbasa
- Department of Medical Statistics and Bioinformatics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E Emri
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Ophthalmogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - P H A Quax
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - A A Bergen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Ophthalmogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - O C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - C J F Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Choudhury R, Bayatti N, Scharff R, Szula E, Tilakaratna V, Udsen MS, McHarg S, Askari JA, Humphries MJ, Bishop PN, Clark SJ. FHL-1 interacts with human RPE cells through the α5β1 integrin and confers protection against oxidative stress. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14175. [PMID: 34239032 PMCID: PMC8266909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93708-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells that underlie the neurosensory retina are essential for the maintenance of photoreceptor cells and hence vision. Interactions between the RPE and their basement membrane, i.e. the inner layer of Bruch's membrane, are essential for RPE cell health and function, but the signals induced by Bruch's membrane engagement, and their contributions to RPE cell fate determination remain poorly defined. Here, we studied the functional role of the soluble complement regulator and component of Bruch's membrane, Factor H-like protein 1 (FHL-1). Human primary RPE cells adhered to FHL-1 in a manner that was eliminated by either mutagenesis of the integrin-binding RGD motif in FHL-1 or by using competing antibodies directed against the α5 and β1 integrin subunits. These short-term experiments reveal an immediate protein-integrin interaction that were obtained from primary RPE cells and replicated using the hTERT-RPE1 cell line. Separate, longer term experiments utilising RNAseq analysis of hTERT-RPE1 cells bound to FHL-1, showed an increased expression of the heat-shock protein genes HSPA6, CRYAB, HSPA1A and HSPA1B when compared to cells bound to fibronectin (FN) or laminin (LA). Pathway analysis implicated changes in EIF2 signalling, the unfolded protein response, and mineralocorticoid receptor signalling as putative pathways. Subsequent cell survival assays using H2O2 to induce oxidative stress-induced cell death suggest hTERT-RPE1 cells had significantly greater protection when bound to FHL-1 or LA compared to plastic or FN. These data show a non-canonical role of FHL-1 in protecting RPE cells against oxidative stress and identifies a novel interaction that has implications for ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawshan Choudhury
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Nadhim Bayatti
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Scharff
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Ewa Szula
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Viranga Tilakaratna
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Maja Søberg Udsen
- Panum Institute, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Selina McHarg
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Janet A Askari
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Martin J Humphries
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul N Bishop
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Simon J Clark
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK.
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford, UK.
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Straße 7, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
- University Eye Clinic, Department for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To study genetic predispositions and differences between severe chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (cCSC), nonsevere cCSC, and acute central serous chorioretinopathy (aCSC). METHODS One hundred seventy-three severe cCSC patients, 272 nonsevere cCSC patients, 135 aCSC patients, and 1,385 control individuals were included. Eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped in the ARMS2 (rs10490924), CFH (rs800292, rs1061170, rs1065489, rs1329428, rs2284664, rs3753394), and NR3C2 (rs2070951). Additionally, C4B gene copy numbers were analyzed. RESULTS A significant association in 5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the CFH gene could be reproduced among severe cCSC patients, including rs800292 (P = 0.0014; odds ratio [OR] = 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.51-2.47), rs1065489 (P = 2.22 × 10; OR = 0.49; 95% CI = 0.34-0.72), rs1329428 (P = 0.001; OR = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.49-2.40), rs2284664 (P = 1.21× 10; OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.28-2.13), and rs3753394 (P = 6.10× 10; OR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.46-0.81). Carrying three C4B copies was protective for severe cCSC (P = 0.001; OR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.14-0.61). No significant differences in allele frequencies could be found among the CSC phenotypes. CONCLUSION Acute CSC, nonsevere cCSC, and severe cCSC all showed a similar association with the CFH and C4B genes, and the three phenotypes could not be distinguished based on the genetics. This shows that despite the differences in clinical presentation and severity, there is an overlap in the genetic predisposition of different CSC phenotypes. Nongenetic factors may play a more important role in determining the clinical course of CSC.
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73
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Kim BJ, Mastellos DC, Li Y, Dunaief JL, Lambris JD. Targeting complement components C3 and C5 for the retina: Key concepts and lingering questions. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100936. [PMID: 33321207 PMCID: PMC8197769 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a major cause of legal blindness, and treatment for the geographic atrophy form of AMD is a significant unmet need. Dysregulation of the complement cascade is thought to be instrumental for AMD pathophysiology. In particular, C3 and C5 are pivotal components of the complement cascade and have become leading therapeutic targets for AMD. In this article, we discuss C3 and C5 in detail, including their roles in AMD, biochemical and structural aspects, locations of expression, and the functions of C3 and C5 fragments. Further, the article critically reviews developing therapeutics aimed at C3 and C5, underscoring the potential effects of broad inhibition of complement at the level of C3 versus more specific inhibition at C5. The relationships of complement biology to the inflammasome and microglia/macrophage activity are highlighted. Concepts of C3 and C5 biology will be emphasized, while we point out questions that need to be settled and directions for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Kim
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | | | - Yafeng Li
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua L Dunaief
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John D Lambris
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Schworm B, Luft N, Keidel LF, Kreutzer TC, Herold TR, Priglinger SG, Siedlecki J. Vanishing pachy-choroid in pachychoroid neovasculopathy under long-term anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. BMC Ophthalmol 2021; 21:269. [PMID: 34193089 PMCID: PMC8243878 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-021-02022-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the diagnostic value of choroidal thickness in the definition of pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV), especially in eyes treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. METHODS Twenty-two consecutive eyes of 11 patients with uni- or bilateral PNV were analyzed. Anti-VEGF treatment was correlated with changes in choroidal thickness on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. RESULTS There were 14 eyes with PNV and 8 non-neovascular partner eyes. Mean age was 64.2 ± 4.0 (range: 60-72), total follow-up was 1.8 ± 0.4 (1-2) years. In PNV eyes, choroidal thickness at baseline was 400 ± 58 (269-485) μm. After two years and 13 anti-VEGF injections on average, a mean reduction of - 39 ± 10 (- 26 to - 56) % to final 241 ± 52 (162-327) μm was observed (p < 0.0001). Meanwhile, choroidal thickness in the partner eyes remained stable (p > 0.13 for all comparisons). A significant correlation of choroidal thinning and anti-VEGF injection rate was observed at year one (r = - 0.79; R2 = 0.63; p = 0.00073) and two (r = - 0.69; R2 = 0.48; p = 0.019). While 85.7% of PNV eyes exceeded a pachychoroid threshold of ≥350 μm at baseline, this figure dropped to 21.4% at year one and 0% at year two. CONCLUSION In PNV, choroidal thickness significantly decreases with anti-VEGF therapy, resembling a "vanishing pachy-choroid", and thus does not represent a valid long-term diagnostic criterium, especially when differentiating PNV from nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Schworm
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Luft
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Leonie F Keidel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas C Kreutzer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Tina R Herold
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Siegfried G Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Jakob Siedlecki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany.
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Lee K, Warren AK, Abràmoff MD, Wahle A, Whitmore SS, Han IC, Fingert JH, Scheetz TE, Mullins RF, Sonka M, Sohn EH. Automated segmentation of choroidal layers from 3-dimensional macular optical coherence tomography scans. J Neurosci Methods 2021; 360:109267. [PMID: 34157370 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changes in choroidal thickness are associated with various ocular diseases, and the choroid can be imaged using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and enhanced depth imaging OCT (EDI-OCT). NEW METHOD Eighty macular SD-OCT volumes from 80 patients were obtained using the Zeiss Cirrus machine. Eleven additional control subjects had two Cirrus scans done in one visit along with enhanced depth imaging (EDI-OCT) using the Heidelberg Spectralis machine. To automatically segment choroidal layers from the OCT volumes, our graph-theoretic approach was utilized. The segmentation results were compared with reference standards from two independent graders, and the accuracy of automated segmentation was calculated using unsigned/signed border positioning/thickness errors and Dice similarity coefficient (DSC). The repeatability and reproducibility of our choroidal thicknesses were determined by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), and repeatability coefficient (RC). RESULTS The mean unsigned/signed border positioning errors for the choroidal inner and outer surfaces are 3.39 ± 1.26 µm (mean ± standard deviation)/- 1.52 ± 1.63 µm and 16.09 ± 6.21 µm/4.73 ± 9.53 µm, respectively. The mean unsigned/signed choroidal thickness errors are 16.54 ± 6.47 µm/6.25 ± 9.91 µm, and the mean DSC is 0.949 ± 0.025. The ICC (95% confidence interval), CV, RC values are 0.991 (0.977-0.997), 2.48%, 14.25 µm for the repeatability and 0.991 (0.977-0.997), 2.49%, 14.30 µm for the reproducibility studies, respectively. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S) The proposed method outperformed our previous method using choroidal vessel segmentation and inter-grader variability. CONCLUSIONS This automated segmentation method can reliably measure choroidal thickness using different OCT platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungmoo Lee
- Iowa Institute for Biomedical Imaging, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Alexis K Warren
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Michael D Abràmoff
- Iowa Institute for Biomedical Imaging, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, United States; IDx, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Andreas Wahle
- Iowa Institute for Biomedical Imaging, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - S Scott Whitmore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Ian C Han
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - John H Fingert
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Todd E Scheetz
- Iowa Institute for Biomedical Imaging, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Milan Sonka
- Iowa Institute for Biomedical Imaging, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Elliott H Sohn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States; Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States.
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Napoli D, Biagioni M, Billeri F, Di Marco B, Orsini N, Novelli E, Strettoi E. Retinal Pigment Epithelium Remodeling in Mouse Models of Retinitis Pigmentosa. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105381. [PMID: 34065385 PMCID: PMC8161377 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In retinitis pigmentosa (RP), one of many possible genetic mutations causes rod degeneration, followed by cone secondary death leading to blindness. Accumulating evidence indicates that rod death triggers multiple, non-cell-autonomous processes, which include oxidative stress and inflammation/immune responses, all contributing to cone demise. Inflammation relies on local microglia and recruitment of immune cells, reaching the retina through breakdowns of the inner blood retinal barrier (iBRB). Leakage in the inner retina vasculature suggests similarly altered outer BRB, formed by junctions between retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which are crucial for retinal homeostasis, immune response, and privilege. We investigated the RPE structural integrity in three models of RP (rd9, rd10, and Tvrm4 mice) by immunostaining for zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), an essential regulatory component of tight junctions. Quantitative image analysis demonstrated discontinuities in ZO-1 profiles in all mutants, despite different degrees of photoreceptor loss. ZO-1 interruption zones corresponded to leakage of in vivo administered, fluorescent dextran through the choroid-RPE interface, demonstrating barrier dysfunction. Dexamethasone, administered to rd10 mice for rescuing cones, also rescued RPE structure. Thus, previously undetected, stereotyped abnormalities occur in the RPE of RP mice; pharmacological targeting of inflammation supports a feedback loop leading to simultaneous protection of cones and the RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Napoli
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
- Correspondence: (D.N.); (E.S.); Tel.: +39-0503153157 (E.S.)
| | - Martina Biagioni
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
| | - Federico Billeri
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Beatrice Di Marco
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
| | - Noemi Orsini
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
- Regional Doctorate School in Neuroscience, Universities of Florence, Pisa and Siena, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Novelli
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
| | - Enrica Strettoi
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (B.D.M.); (N.O.); (E.N.)
- Correspondence: (D.N.); (E.S.); Tel.: +39-0503153157 (E.S.)
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CHOROIDAL THICKNESS AND VASCULARITY VARY WITH DISEASE SEVERITY AND SUBRETINAL DRUSENOID DEPOSIT PRESENCE IN NONADVANCED AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2021; 40:632-642. [PMID: 30664125 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000002434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate how choroidal features vary with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) severity in early-intermediate disease. METHODS One hundred fifty-one eyes of 151 participants >50 years with no to intermediate AMD were analyzed with enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography. Mean macular choroidal thickness (CT), choroidal vascular thickness (CV), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were determined, and statistical associations were calculated. RESULTS Decreased CT and CV were associated with increased axial length (+30 and +14 µm/mm, respectively; P < 0.0001 each), whereas decreased CVI was associated with increased age (+0.1%/year; P = 0.004). Compared with eyes with no/early AMD (Group 0), eyes with large drusen without late AMD in the fellow eye (Group 1) showed increased CV and CVI (+22 µm, P = 0.03 and +2.2%, P = 0.02, respectively). However, eyes with large drusen and late AMD in the fellow eye (Group 2) resembled Group 0. Eyes with subretinal drusenoid deposits demonstrated lower mean CT/CV/CVI than Group 0 (-57 µm, P = 0.02; -31 µm, P = 0.02; -3.6%, P = 0.007). CONCLUSION Early AMD progression seems associated with biphasic alterations in choroidal dimensions, increasing during early drusen formation but decreasing thereafter. Subretinal drusenoid deposits are independently associated with marked reductions in all choroidal parameters. Changes in choroidal vascular anatomy may drive or reflect the pathobiology of AMD progression.
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Armento A, Ueffing M, Clark SJ. The complement system in age-related macular degeneration. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4487-4505. [PMID: 33751148 PMCID: PMC8195907 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03796-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic and progressive degenerative disease of the retina, which culminates in blindness and affects mainly the elderly population. AMD pathogenesis and pathophysiology are incredibly complex due to the structural and cellular complexity of the retina, and the variety of risk factors and molecular mechanisms that contribute to disease onset and progression. AMD is driven by a combination of genetic predisposition, natural ageing changes and lifestyle factors, such as smoking or nutritional intake. The mechanism by which these risk factors interact and converge towards AMD are not fully understood and therefore drug discovery is challenging, where no therapeutic attempt has been fully effective thus far. Genetic and molecular studies have identified the complement system as an important player in AMD. Indeed, many of the genetic risk variants cluster in genes of the alternative pathway of the complement system and complement activation products are elevated in AMD patients. Nevertheless, attempts in treating AMD via complement regulators have not yet been successful, suggesting a level of complexity that could not be predicted only from a genetic point of view. In this review, we will explore the role of complement system in AMD development and in the main molecular and cellular features of AMD, including complement activation itself, inflammation, ECM stability, energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Armento
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Simon J Clark
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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Pouw AE, Greiner MA, Coussa RG, Jiao C, Han IC, Skeie JM, Fingert JH, Mullins RF, Sohn EH. Cell-Matrix Interactions in the Eye: From Cornea to Choroid. Cells 2021; 10:687. [PMID: 33804633 PMCID: PMC8003714 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in all parts of the eye, from maintaining clarity and hydration of the cornea and vitreous to regulating angiogenesis, intraocular pressure maintenance, and vascular signaling. This review focuses on the interactions of the ECM for homeostasis of normal physiologic functions of the cornea, vitreous, retina, retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch's membrane, and choroid as well as trabecular meshwork, optic nerve, conjunctiva and tenon's layer as it relates to glaucoma. A variety of pathways and key factors related to ECM in the eye are discussed, including but not limited to those related to transforming growth factor-β, vascular endothelial growth factor, basic-fibroblastic growth factor, connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinases (including MMP-2 and MMP-9, and MMP-14), collagen IV, fibronectin, elastin, canonical signaling, integrins, and endothelial morphogenesis consistent of cellular activation-tubulogenesis and cellular differentiation-stabilization. Alterations contributing to disease states such as wound healing, diabetes-related complications, Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, angiogenesis, fibrosis, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and posteriorly inserted vitreous base are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew E. Pouw
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Mark A. Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Razek G. Coussa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Chunhua Jiao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Ian C. Han
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jessica M. Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
| | - John H. Fingert
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Robert F. Mullins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Elliott H. Sohn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (A.E.P.); (M.A.G.); (R.G.C.); (C.J.); (I.C.H.); (J.M.S.); (J.H.F.); (R.F.M.)
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Cabral de Guimaraes TA, Daich Varela M, Georgiou M, Michaelides M. Treatments for dry age-related macular degeneration: therapeutic avenues, clinical trials and future directions. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:297-304. [PMID: 33741584 PMCID: PMC8867261 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-318452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the developed world. The identification of the central role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of neovascular AMD and the introduction of anti-VEGF agents as gold-standard treatment, have drastically changed its prognosis-something yet to be seen in dry AMD. Several therapeutic avenues with a wide variability of targets are currently being investigated in dry AMD. The approaches being investigated to reduce the rate of disease progression include, (1) drugs with antioxidative properties, (2) inhibitors of the complement cascade, (3) neuroprotective agents, (4) visual cycle inhibitors, (5) gene therapy and (6) cell-based therapies. A number of early phase clinical trials have provided promising results, with many more ongoing and anticipated in the near future. In this review, we aim to provide an update of the interventional trials to date and future prospects for the treatment of dry AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thales Antonio Cabral de Guimaraes
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Malena Daich Varela
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Michalis Georgiou
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
| | - Michel Michaelides
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, London, UK .,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, London, UK
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81
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Tian Y, Tang W, Yang S, Zhao Y, Chen Y, Zhao X, Liu C, Chen X, Shen C. HTRA1 Variants and the Interaction with Smoking Confer the Genetic Susceptibility to Ischemic Stroke. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:1840-1847. [PMID: 33746601 PMCID: PMC7976583 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.45856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
High temperature requirement protein A1 (HtrA1) was identified as the causative gene of autosomal recessive arteriopathy and associated with lacunar ischemic stroke (IS) in European. This study aimed at evaluating the association of HTRA1 with IS and four tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in a cohort of 4,098 Chinese. The mRNA level of HTRA1 in 72 IS cases and 72 hypertension controls were measured and compared. In whole population, SNP rs2268350 (C>T) was significantly associated with IS incidence (P=0.034). Stratification analysis observed significant association of rs2268350 in male, smoking and drinking populations, rs2672587 (C>G) in smoking and nonsmoking populations and rs3793917 (C>G) in smoking, nonsmoking and nondrinking populations with stroke respectively (P<0.05). The additive interaction and multiplicative interaction between rs2268350 and smoking were both of significant (P<0.05) after adjustment for the covariates. There was a cumulated risk of IS among genotypes of rs3793917 (P=0.009) and rs2672587 (P=0.047) in smoking population. The mRNA level of HTRA1 in non-smokers with rs2268350 CC was significantly higher than smokers with rs2268350 CT/TT (P=0.046) in IS cases. Our findings support that HTRA1 confers the genetic susceptibility to IS and smoking might modify the genetic effect of HTRA1 on IS by suppressing HTRA1 mRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanrui Tian
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wuzhuang Tang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Yixing People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, People's Hospital of Yixing City, Yixing 214200, China
| | - Song Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Yixing People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, People's Hospital of Yixing City, Yixing 214200, China
| | - Yanping Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Yixing People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, People's Hospital of Yixing City, Yixing 214200, China
| | - Yanchun Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Yixing People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, People's Hospital of Yixing City, Yixing 214200, China
| | - Xianghai Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Yixing People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, People's Hospital of Yixing City, Yixing 214200, China
| | - Chunlan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiaotian Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chong Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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de Jong S, Gagliardi G, Garanto A, de Breuk A, Lechanteur YTE, Katti S, van den Heuvel LP, Volokhina EB, den Hollander AI. Implications of genetic variation in the complement system in age-related macular degeneration. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 84:100952. [PMID: 33610747 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the main cause of vision loss among the elderly in the Western world. While AMD is a multifactorial disease, the complement system was identified as one of the main pathways contributing to disease risk. The strong link between the complement system and AMD was demonstrated by genetic associations, and by elevated complement activation in local eye tissue and in the systemic circulation of AMD patients. Several complement inhibitors have been and are being explored in clinical trials, but thus far with limited success, leaving the majority of AMD patients without treatment options to date. This indicates that there is still a gap of knowledge regarding the functional implications of the complement system in AMD pathogenesis and how to bring these towards clinical translation. Many different experimental set-ups and disease models have been used to study complement activation in vivo and in vitro, and recently emerging patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells and genome-editing techniques open new opportunities to study AMD disease mechanisms and test new therapeutic strategies in the future. In this review we provide an extensive overview of methods employed to understand the molecular processes of complement activation in AMD pathogenesis. We discuss the findings, advantages and challenges of each approach and conclude with an outlook on how recent, exciting developments can fill in current knowledge gaps and can aid in the development of effective complement-targeting therapeutic strategies in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah de Jong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Giuliana Gagliardi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Alejandro Garanto
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anita de Breuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Yara T E Lechanteur
- Department of Ophthalmology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Suresh Katti
- Gemini Therapeutics Inc., Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Lambert P van den Heuvel
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Elena B Volokhina
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anneke I den Hollander
- Department of Ophthalmology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Innate Immunity in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1256:121-141. [PMID: 33848000 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-66014-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Multiple lines of investigation have demonstrated that inflammation plays significant roles in etiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although interventional trials in AMD therapy targeting inflammatory pathways have been conducted, they have not yet been successful and a detailed understanding as to why some have failed is still elusive. One limitation is the relative dearth of information on how immune cells interact with retinal cells to generate AMD phenotypes at each disease stage. Here, we summarize current research evidence and hypotheses regarding potential pathogenic roles of innate immune cells in the eye, which include resident retinal microglia, macrophages derived from infiltrating systemic monocytes, and macrophages resident in the choroid. We relate recent findings regarding the physiology, function, and cellular interactions involving innate immune cells in the retina and choroid to AMD-related processes, including: (1) drusen formation and regression, (2) the onset and spread of degeneration in late atrophic AMD, and (3) the initiation, growth, and exudation of neovascular vessels in late "wet" AMD. Understanding how innate immune cells contribute to specific AMD phenotypes can assist in generating a comprehensive view on the inflammatory etiology of AMD and aid in identifying anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies and selecting appropriate clinical outcomes for the planned interventions.
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84
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Single-cell RNA sequencing in vision research: Insights into human retinal health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 83:100934. [PMID: 33383180 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Gene expression provides valuable insight into cell function. As such, vision researchers have frequently employed gene expression studies to better understand retinal physiology and disease. With the advent of single-cell RNA sequencing, expression experiments provide an unparalleled resolution of information. Instead of studying aggregated gene expression across all cells in a heterogenous tissue, single-cell technology maps RNA to an individual cell, which facilitates grouping of retinal and choroidal cell types for further study. Single-cell RNA sequencing has been quickly adopted by both basic and translational vision researchers, and single-cell level gene expression has been studied in the visual systems of animal models, retinal organoids, and primary human retina, RPE, and choroid. These experiments have generated detailed atlases of gene expression and identified new retinal cell types. Likewise, single-cell RNA sequencing investigations have characterized how gene expression changes in the setting of many retinal diseases, including how choroidal endothelial cells are altered in age-related macular degeneration. In addition, this technology has allowed vision researchers to discover drivers of retinal development and model rare retinal diseases with induced pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we will overview the growing number of single-cell RNA sequencing studies in the field of vision research. We will summarize experimental considerations for designing single-cell RNA sequencing experiments and highlight important advancements in retinal, RPE, choroidal, and retinal organoid biology driven by this technology. Finally, we generalize these findings to genes involved in retinal degeneration and outline the future of single-cell expression experiments in studying retinal disease.
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Ghareeb AE, Lako M, Steel DH. Coculture techniques for modeling retinal development and disease, and enabling regenerative medicine. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:1531-1548. [PMID: 32767661 PMCID: PMC7695644 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-derived retinal organoids offer the opportunity to cure retinal degeneration of wide-ranging etiology either through the study of in vitro models or the generation of tissue for transplantation. However, despite much work in animals and several human pilot studies, satisfactory therapies have not been developed. Two major challenges for retinal regenerative medicine are (a) physical cell-cell interactions, which are critical to graft function, are not formed and (b) the host environment does not provide suitable queues for development. Several strategies offer to improve the delivery, integration, maturation, and functionality of cell transplantation. These include minimally invasive delivery, biocompatible material vehicles, retinal cell sheets, and optogenetics. Optimizing several variables in animal models is practically difficult, limited by anatomical and disease pathology which is often different to humans, and faces regulatory and ethical challenges. High-throughput methods are needed to experimentally optimize these variables. Retinal organoids will be important to the success of these models. In their current state, they do not incorporate a representative retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-photoreceptor interface nor vascular elements, which influence the neural retina phenotype directly and are known to be dysfunctional in common retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. Advanced coculture techniques, which emulate the RPE-photoreceptor and RPE-Bruch's-choriocapillaris interactions, can incorporate disease-specific, human retinal organoids and overcome these drawbacks. Herein, we review retinal coculture models of the neural retina, RPE, and choriocapillaris. We delineate the scientific need for such systems in the study of retinal organogenesis, disease modeling, and the optimization of regenerative cell therapies for retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali E. Ghareeb
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation TrustSunderlandUK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle UniversityNewcastle‐upon‐TyneUK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle UniversityNewcastle‐upon‐TyneUK
| | - David H. Steel
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation TrustSunderlandUK
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle UniversityNewcastle‐upon‐TyneUK
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Chen M, Yang N, Lechner J, Toth L, Hogg R, Silvestri G, Chakravarthy U, Xu H. Plasma level of lipocalin 2 is increased in neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients, particularly those with macular fibrosis. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2020; 17:35. [PMID: 33292361 PMCID: PMC7666483 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-020-00205-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Previously, we and others have reported higher populations of circulating neutrophils in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL, also known as lipocalin-2, LCN2), an important innate immune mediator, is known to be critically involved in sterile inflammation-mediated organ failure, fibrosis, cancer progression and retinal degeneration. This study investigated the plasma levels of LCN2, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and LCN2/MMP9 complex in different types of nAMD and examined whether the levels were related to patients’ responsiveness to anti-VEGF therapy. Results One hundred and seventy-four nAMD patients, including 108 with choroidal neovascularisation (CNV), 32 with retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP), 23 with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and 11 unclassified patients, and 43 healthy controls were recruited to this case-control study. Fifty-eight nAMD patients had macular fibrosis and 110 patients did not. Out of the 174 nAMD patients, 80 patients responded completely, 90 responded partially, and 4 did not respond to the anti-VEGF therapy. The plasma levels of LCN2 in nAMD patients (181.46 ± 73.62 ng/ml) was significantly higher than that in healthy controls (152.24 ± 49.55 ng/ml, P = 0.047). However, the difference disappeared after adjusting for age. A positive correlation between plasma level of LCN2 and age was observed in nAMD patients (r = 0.29, P = 0.0002) but not in healthy controls. The plasma level of LCN2 was also positively correlated with circulating neutrophils in nAMD patients (r = 0.34, p = 0.0007) but not in healthy controls (r = 0.057, p = 0.77). No correlation was observed between age and circulating neutrophils. Further analysis of nAMD subtypes uncovered a significantly higher level of LCN2 in patients with macular fibrosis even after adjusting for age. No relationship was observed between plasma levels of LCN2 and patients’ responsiveness to anti-VEGF therapy. The plasma levels of MMP9 and LCN2/MMP9 complex were comparable between nAMD and controls. Conclusions Our results suggest that higher plasma levels of LCN2 in nAMD are related to ageing and increased population of circulating neutrophils. Our results also suggest that higher levels of LCN2 may increase the risk of macular fibrosis in nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Nan Yang
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Judith Lechner
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Levente Toth
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ruth Hogg
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Heping Xu
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
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87
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Tzoumas N, Hallam D, Harris CL, Lako M, Kavanagh D, Steel DHW. Revisiting the role of factor H in age-related macular degeneration: Insights from complement-mediated renal disease and rare genetic variants. Surv Ophthalmol 2020; 66:378-401. [PMID: 33157112 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ophthalmologists are long familiar with the eye showing signs of systemic disease, but the association between age-related macular degeneration and abnormal complement activation, common to several renal disorders, has only recently been elucidated. Although complement activation products were identified in drusen almost three decades ago, it was not until the early 21st century that a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the complement factor H gene was identified as a major heritable determinant of age-related macular degeneration, galvanizing global efforts to unravel the pathogenesis of this common disease. Advances in proteomic analyses and familial aggregation studies have revealed distinctive clinical phenotypes segregated by the functional effects of common and rare genetic variants on the mature protein and its splice variant, factor H-like protein 1. The predominance of loss-of-function, N-terminal mutations implicate age-related macular degeneration as a disease of general complement dysregulation, offering several therapeutic avenues for its modulation. Here, we explore the molecular impact of these mutations/polymorphisms on the ability of variant factor H/factor H-like protein 1 to localize to polyanions, pentraxins, proinflammatory triggers, and cell surfaces across ocular and renal tissues and exert its multimodal regulatory functions and their clinical implications. Finally, we critically evaluate key therapeutic and diagnostic efforts in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Tzoumas
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
| | - Dean Hallam
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L Harris
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David Kavanagh
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David H W Steel
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom
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88
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Lynch AM, Wagner BD, Palestine AG, Janjic N, Patnaik JL, Mathias MT, Siringo FS, Mandava N. Plasma Biomarkers of Reticular Pseudodrusen and the Risk of Progression to Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:12. [PMID: 32974084 PMCID: PMC7488626 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.10.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine, using an aptamer-based technology in patients with intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD), (1) if there is a difference in plasma levels of 4979 proteins in patients with and without reticular pseudodrusen (RPD), and (2) if plasma levels of proteins are related to time to conversion to advanced AMD. Methods Patients with intermediate AMD and RPD were identified from an AMD registry. Relative concentrations of each protein were log (base 2) transformed and compared between patients with and without RPD using linear regression. A Cox proportional hazards survival model was fit to each aptamer to quantify associations with time to conversion. A pathway analysis was conducted in converters versus non-converters using the Reactome database. Results Of the 109 intermediate AMD patients, 39 had bilateral RPD (36%). Two proteins, TCL1A and CNDP1, were lower in patients in the intermediate AMD group with RPD. Twenty-one patients converted to advanced AMD with a median time to conversion of 25.2 months (range, 2.3-48.5 months) and median follow-up time in non-converters of 26.4 months (range, 0.03-49.7 months). Several proteins (lysozyme C, TFF3, RNAS6, and SAP3) distinguished patients who converted from those who did not convert to advanced AMD. The top conversion pathways included tumor necrosis factors bind their physiological receptors, digestion and absorption, signaling by activin, and signaling by TGF-β family members. Conclusions We identified a protein signature related to RPD, as well as to conversion to advanced AMD. The pathway analysis suggests that dysfunction of critical systemic pathways may have links to conversion to advanced AMD. Translational Relevance Biomarkers identified in plasma likely reflect systemic alterations in protein expression in patients with intermediate AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Lynch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brandie D Wagner
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Alan G Palestine
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Jennifer L Patnaik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Marc T Mathias
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Frank S Siringo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Naresh Mandava
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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89
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Schäfer N, Wolf HN, Enzbrenner A, Schikora J, Reichenthaler M, Enzmann V, Pauly D. Properdin Modulates Complement Component Production in Stressed Human Primary Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E793. [PMID: 32859013 PMCID: PMC7555107 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9090793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) maintains visual function and preserves structural integrity of the retina. Chronic dysfunction of the RPE is associated with retinal degeneration, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The AMD pathogenesis includes both increased oxidative stress and complement dysregulation. Physiological sources of oxidative stress in the retina are well known, while complement sources and regulation are still under debate. Using human primary RPE (hpRPE) cells, we have established a model to investigate complement component expression on transcript and protein level in AMD-risk and non-risk hpRPE cells. We evaluated the effect of properdin, a complement stabilizer, on the hpRPE cell-dependent complement profile exposed to oxidative stress. hpRPE cells expressed complement components, receptors and regulators. Complement proteins were also stored and secreted by hpRPE cells. We associated AMD-risk single nucleotide polymorphisms with an increased secretion of complement factors D (CFD) and I (CFI). Furthermore, we detected hpRPE cell-associated complement activation products (C3a, C5a) independent of any extracellularly added complement system. Exogenous properdin increased the mRNA expression of CFI and CFD, but decreased levels of complement components (C1Q, C3), receptors (C3AR, C5AR1, CD11B) and inflammation-associated transcripts (NLRP3, IL1B) in hpRPE cells exposed to oxidative stress. This properdin effect was time-dependently counter regulated. In conclusion, our data unveiled a local, genotype-associated complement component production in hpRPE cells, regulated by exogenous properdin. The local complement production and activation via blood-independent mechanisms can be a new therapeutic target for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schäfer
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Hannah N. Wolf
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Anne Enzbrenner
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Juliane Schikora
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Maria Reichenthaler
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Volker Enzmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Diana Pauly
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Eye clinic, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (N.S.); (H.N.W.); (A.E.); (J.S.); (M.R.)
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90
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Dhirachaikulpanich D, Li X, Porter LF, Paraoan L. Integrated Microarray and RNAseq Transcriptomic Analysis of Retinal Pigment Epithelium/Choroid in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:808. [PMID: 32984320 PMCID: PMC7480186 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We report for the first time an integrated transcriptomic analysis of RPE/choroid dysfunction in AMD (mixed stages) based on combining data from publicly available microarray (GSE29801) and RNAseq (GSE135092) datasets aimed at increasing the ability and power of detection of differentially expressed genes and AMD-associated pathways. The analysis approach employed an integrating quantitative method designed to eliminate bias among different transcriptomic studies. The analysis highlighted 764 meta-genes (366 downregulated and 398 upregulated) in macular AMD RPE/choroid and 445 meta-genes (244 downregulated and 201 upregulated) in non-macular AMD RPE/choroid. Of these, 731 genes were newly detected as differentially expressed (DE) genes in macular AMD RPE/choroid and 434 genes in non-macular AMD RPE/choroid compared with controls. Over-representation analysis of KEGG pathways associated with these DE genes mapped revealed two most significantly associated biological processes in macular RPE/choroid in AMD, namely the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway (represented by 30 DE genes) and the extracellular matrix-receptor interaction signaling pathway (represented by 12 DE genes). Furthermore, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network identified two central hub genes involved in the control of cell proliferation/differentiation processes, HDAC1 and CDK1. Overall, the analysis provided novel insights for broadening the exploration of AMD pathogenesis by extending the number of molecular determinants and functional pathways that underpin AMD-associated RPE/choroid dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanach Dhirachaikulpanich
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Louise F Porter
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Luminita Paraoan
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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91
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Somasundaran S, Constable IJ, Mellough CB, Carvalho LS. Retinal pigment epithelium and age-related macular degeneration: A review of major disease mechanisms. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 48:1043-1056. [PMID: 32710488 PMCID: PMC7754492 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly population. Degeneration/dysregulation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a supportive monolayer of cells underlying the photoreceptors, is commonly seen in patients with AMD. While treatment exists for the neovascular/wet form of AMD, there is currently no cure for the non‐exudative/dry form of AMD, making it imperative to understand the pathogenesis of this disease. Although our understanding of the aetiology of AMD has increased over the years, the underlying disease mechanism has not yet been identified, mainly due to the multifactorial nature of this disease. Herein, we review some of the commonly proposed degeneration pathways of RPE cells and their role in the pathogenesis of AMD; including activation of the complement cascade, oxidative stress‐induced cell death mechanisms, dysfunctional mitochondria and the role of crystallins in AMD disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Somasundaran
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ian J Constable
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Carla B Mellough
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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92
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Chen Y, Yan Q, Xu Y, Ye F, Sun X, Zhu H, Wang H. BNIP3-mediated Autophagy Induced Inflammatory Response and Inhibited VEGF Expression in Cultured Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells Under Hypoxia. Curr Mol Med 2020; 19:395-404. [PMID: 31072291 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190509105502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bcl-2/adenovirus E1B-19kDa-interacting protein (BNIP3), an important target of hypoxia-inducible factors-1 alpha (HIF-1α), was reported to be overexpressed under hypoxic condition. Our previous study demonstrated the protective effect on detached retina by BNIP3-mediated autophagy. The study investigated the role of BNIP3-mediated autophagy in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells under hypoxia, and observed the relationship between BNIP3, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inflammatory response in hypoxic RPE cells. METHODS BNIP3 knock down in retinal pigment epithelial cells was performed by small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology in ARPE-19 cells, a human RPE cell line. Both control and BNIP3-knockdown ARPE-19 cells were then subjected to a hypoxic challenge using cobalt (II) chloride (CoCl2). The expression of autophagy-related genes, VEGF and inflammatory factors (IL-18, IL-8, MMP-2, MMP-9, NLRP3, TNF-α) in RPE cells was examined using quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). The protein levels of HIF-1α, BNIP3, the maker proteins (ATG5, LC3,p62, Beclin-1) of autophagy and the component proteins (p-p70S6K, p70S6K, mTOR, p-mTOR) of the mTORC1 pathway were analyzed by Western blot. BNIP3 subcellualr localization was detected by immunofluorescence. Cell viability was measured with Cell Counting kit-8. Cell apoptosis was examined by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity assay. RESULTS The expression levels of BNIP3, HIF-1α and marker genes of autophagy were upregulated in ARPE-19 cells in response to hypoxia. Importantly, hypoxia-induced autophagy was mediated by the mTORC1 pathway, and was blocked upon BNIP3 knockdown. Additionally, hypoxia reduced cell viability, which was relieved by an mTORC1 inhibitor. Also, autophagy protected ARPE-19 cells from CoCl2-induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, inhibition of autophagy upregulated the expression of VEGF and IL-18, and downregulated the expression of other inflammatory factors in the hypoxic ARPE-19 cells. CONCLUSION BNIP3-mediated autophagy under hypoxia is involved in regulating inflammatory response and VEGF expression, which consequently affects the cell viability of RPE cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Quan Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihua Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuxiang Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
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93
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Farrah TE, Dhillon B, Keane PA, Webb DJ, Dhaun N. The eye, the kidney, and cardiovascular disease: old concepts, better tools, and new horizons. Kidney Int 2020; 98:323-342. [PMID: 32471642 PMCID: PMC7397518 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2020.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, with hypertension and diabetes mellitus acting as major risk factors for its development. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and the most frequent end point of CKD. There is an urgent need for more precise methods to identify patients at risk of CKD and cardiovascular disease. Alterations in microvascular structure and function contribute to the development of hypertension, diabetes, CKD, and their associated cardiovascular disease. Homology between the eye and the kidney suggests that noninvasive imaging of the retinal vessels can detect these microvascular alterations to improve targeting of at-risk patients. Retinal vessel-derived metrics predict incident hypertension, diabetes, CKD, and cardiovascular disease and add to the current renal and cardiovascular risk stratification tools. The advent of optical coherence tomography (OCT) has transformed retinal imaging by capturing the chorioretinal microcirculation and its dependent tissue with near-histological resolution. In hypertension, diabetes, and CKD, OCT has revealed vessel remodeling and chorioretinal thinning. Clinical and preclinical OCT has linked retinal microvascular pathology to circulating and histological markers of injury in the kidney. The advent of OCT angiography allows contrast-free visualization of intraretinal capillary networks to potentially detect early incipient microvascular disease. Combining OCT's deep imaging with the analytical power of deep learning represents the next frontier in defining what the eye can reveal about the kidney and broader cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq E Farrah
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Baljean Dhillon
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Pearse A Keane
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - David J Webb
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neeraj Dhaun
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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94
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Schnichels S, Paquet-Durand F, Löscher M, Tsai T, Hurst J, Joachim SC, Klettner A. Retina in a dish: Cell cultures, retinal explants and animal models for common diseases of the retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 81:100880. [PMID: 32721458 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
For many retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy (DR), the exact pathogenesis is still unclear. Moreover, the currently available therapeutic options are often unsatisfactory. Research designed to remedy this situation heavily relies on experimental animals. However, animal models often do not faithfully reproduce human disease and, currently, there is strong pressure from society to reduce animal research. Overall, this creates a need for improved disease models to understand pathologies and develop treatment options that, at the same time, require fewer or no experimental animals. Here, we review recent advances in the field of in vitro and ex vivo models for AMD, glaucoma, and DR. We highlight the difficulties associated with studies on complex diseases, in which both the initial trigger and the ensuing pathomechanisms are unclear, and then delineate which model systems are optimal for disease modelling. To this end, we present a variety of model systems, ranging from primary cell cultures, over organotypic cultures and whole eye cultures, to animal models. Specific advantages and disadvantages of such models are discussed, with a special focus on their relevance to putative in vivo disease mechanisms. In many cases, a replacement of in vivo research will mean that several different in vitro models are used in conjunction, for instance to analyze and validate causative molecular pathways. Finally, we argue that the analytical decomposition into appropriate cell and tissue model systems will allow making significant progress in our understanding of complex retinal diseases and may furthermore advance the treatment testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Schnichels
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany.
| | - François Paquet-Durand
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marina Löscher
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Teresa Tsai
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - José Hurst
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephanie C Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Alexa Klettner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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95
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Wright C, Mazzucco AE, Becker SM, Sieving PA, Tumminia SJ. NEI-Supported Age-Related Macular Degeneration Research: Past, Present, and Future. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:49. [PMID: 32832254 PMCID: PMC7414643 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To review past and current National Eye Institute (NEI)–supported age-related macular degeneration (AMD) activities and initiatives and preview upcoming coordinated efforts for studying AMD. Methods We conducted and summarized a portfolio analysis and literature review of NEI intramural and extramural AMD activities. Results The NEI supports a broad range of AMD research, both by individual independent investigators as well as through networks and consortia. The International AMD Genomics Consortium, Age-Related Eye Disease Study, Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), and Comparison of AMD Treatments Trial legacy work probed the complex genetics, clinical presentation, and standards of patient care, respectively. The NEI AMD Pathobiology Working Group identified gaps and opportunities for future research efforts. The AMD Ryan Initiative Study and clinical trials testing the efficacies of minocycline to modulate retinal microglia activity and induced pluripotent stem cells–derived retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) patch implants to rescue photoreceptor cell death are among the future directions for NEI-supported AMD research. Finally, NEI commissioned the creation of AREDS2 participant-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines linked to their associated genomic and phenotypic datasets. These datasets will also be linked to the data obtained using their associated iPSC-derived cells (RPE, retina, choroid) and made publicly available. Conclusions Investments by NEI for AMD research will continue to provide invaluable resources to investigators committed to addressing this complex blinding disease and other retinal degenerative diseases. Translational Relevance NEI now stands poised to expand the resources available to clinical investigators to uncover disease mechanisms and move experimental therapies into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Wright
- Division of Extramural Science Programs, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anna E Mazzucco
- Immediate Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Steven M Becker
- Office of the Director, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paul A Sieving
- Previous Director, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Santa J Tumminia
- Office of the Director, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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96
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Voigt AP, Whitmore SS, Mulfaul K, Chirco KR, Giacalone JC, Flamme-Wiese MJ, Stockman A, Stone EM, Tucker BA, Scheetz TE, Mullins RF. Bulk and single-cell gene expression analyses reveal aging human choriocapillaris has pro-inflammatory phenotype. Microvasc Res 2020; 131:104031. [PMID: 32531351 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.104031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The human choroidal vasculature is subject to age-related structural and gene expression changes implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this study, we performed both bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing on infant (n = 4 for bulk experiments, n = 2 for single-cell experiments) and adult (n = 13 for bulk experiments, n = 6 for single-cell experiments) human donors to characterize how choroidal gene expression changes with age. Differential expression analysis revealed that aged choroidal samples were enriched in genes encoding pro-inflammatory transcription factors and leukocyte transendothelial cell migration adhesion proteins. Such genes were observed to be differentially expressed specifically within choroidal endothelial cells at the single-cell level. Immunohistochemistry experiments support transcriptional findings that CD34 is elevated in infant choriocapillaris endothelial cells while ICAM-1 is enriched in adults. These results suggest several potential drivers of the pro-inflammatory vascular phenotype observed with advancing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Voigt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - S Scott Whitmore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Kelly Mulfaul
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Kathleen R Chirco
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Joseph C Giacalone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Miles J Flamme-Wiese
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Adam Stockman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA 52241, United States of America
| | - Edwin M Stone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Todd E Scheetz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America; Institute for Vision Research, the University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States of America.
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97
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Lehmann GL, Hanke-Gogokhia C, Hu Y, Bareja R, Salfati Z, Ginsberg M, Nolan DJ, Mendez-Huergo SP, Dalotto-Moreno T, Wojcinski A, Ochoa F, Zeng S, Cerliani JP, Panagis L, Zager PJ, Mullins RF, Ogura S, Lutty GA, Bang J, Zippin JH, Romano C, Rabinovich GA, Elemento O, Joyner AL, Rafii S, Rodriguez-Boulan E, Benedicto I. Single-cell profiling reveals an endothelium-mediated immunomodulatory pathway in the eye choroid. J Exp Med 2020; 217:e20190730. [PMID: 32196081 PMCID: PMC7971135 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20190730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity and survival of retinal photoreceptors depend on support functions performed by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and on oxygen and nutrients delivered by blood vessels in the underlying choroid. By combining single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing, we categorized mouse RPE/choroid cell types and characterized the tissue-specific transcriptomic features of choroidal endothelial cells. We found that choroidal endothelium adjacent to the RPE expresses high levels of Indian Hedgehog and identified its downstream target as stromal GLI1+ mesenchymal stem cell-like cells. In vivo genetic impairment of Hedgehog signaling induced significant loss of choroidal mast cells, as well as an altered inflammatory response and exacerbated visual function defects after retinal damage. Our studies reveal the cellular and molecular landscape of adult RPE/choroid and uncover a Hedgehog-regulated choroidal immunomodulatory signaling circuit. These results open new avenues for the study and treatment of retinal vascular diseases and choroid-related inflammatory blinding disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo L. Lehmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY
| | - Christin Hanke-Gogokhia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Yang Hu
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Rohan Bareja
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Zelda Salfati
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Santiago P. Mendez-Huergo
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tomas Dalotto-Moreno
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alexandre Wojcinski
- Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Shemin Zeng
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Juan P. Cerliani
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Patrick J. Zager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Robert F. Mullins
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Shuntaro Ogura
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | - Gerard A. Lutty
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jakyung Bang
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Jonathan H. Zippin
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | | | - Gabriel A. Rabinovich
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Olivier Elemento
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Alexandra L. Joyner
- Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Shahin Rafii
- Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Department of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Enrique Rodriguez-Boulan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Ignacio Benedicto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Margaret Dyson Vision Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain
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98
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Huang J, Gharib M. Thermal Effects on Fluid Mixing in the Eye. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 49:251-261. [PMID: 32458221 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02534-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of central vision loss in the developed world. Wet AMD can be managed through serial intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. However, sometimes the treatment is ineffective. Given that the half-life of the drug is limited, inefficient mixing of the injected drug in the vitreous chamber of the eye may contribute to the ineffectiveness. Here, we introduce thermal heating as a means of enhancing the mixing-process in the vitreous chamber and investigate parameters that potentially influence its effectiveness. Our in vitro studies reveal the importance of the heating location on the eye. A significant increase in the mixing and delivery of drugs to the targeted area (the macula) could be achieved by placing heating pads to induce a current, against gravity, in the vitreous. The presented results can potentially help in the development of a better strategy for intravitreal injection, subsequently improving the quality of patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Huang
- Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, MC 105-50, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA.
| | - Morteza Gharib
- Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, MC 105-50, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
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99
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Chu Z, Cheng Y, Zhang Q, Zhou H, Dai Y, Shi Y, Gregori G, Rosenfeld PJ, Wang RK. Quantification of Choriocapillaris with Phansalkar Local Thresholding: Pitfalls to Avoid. Am J Ophthalmol 2020; 213:161-176. [PMID: 32059979 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To demonstrate the proper use of the Phansalkar local thresholding method (Phansalkar method) in choriocapillaris (CC) quantification with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). DESIGN Retrospective, observational case series. METHODS Swept source OCTA imaging was performed using 3×3 mm and 6×6 mm scanning patterns. The CC slab was extracted after semiautomatic segmentation of the retinal pigment epithelium/Bruch membrane complex. Retinal projection artifacts were removed before further analysis, and CC OCTA images from drusen eyes were compensated using a previously published strategy. CC flow deficits (FDs) were segmented with 2 previously published algorithms: the fuzzy C-means approach (FCM method) and the Phansalkar method. With the Phansalkar method, different parameters were tested and a local window radius of 1 to 15 pixels was used. FD density, mean FD size, and FD number were calculated for comparison. RESULTS Six normal eyes from 6 subjects and 6 eyes with drusen secondary to age-related macular degeneration from 6 subjects were analyzed. With both 3×3 mm and 6×6 mm scans from all eyes, the FD metrics were highly dependent on the selection of the local window radius when using the Phansalkar method. Larger window radii resulted in higher FD density values. FD number increased with the increase in the window radius but then decreased, with an inflection point at about 1 to 2 intercapillary distances. Mean FD size decreased then increased with increasing window radii. CONCLUSIONS Multiple parameters, especially the local window radius, should be optimized before using the Phansalkar method for the quantification of CC FDs with OCTA imaging. It is recommended that the proper use of the Phansalkar method should include the selection of the window radius that is related to the expected intercapillary distance in normal eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongdi Chu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yuxuan Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Qinqin Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yining Dai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yingying Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Giovanni Gregori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Philip J Rosenfeld
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Ruikang K Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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100
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Matsubara JA, Tian Y, Cui JZ, Zeglinski MR, Hiroyasu S, Turner CT, Granville DJ. Retinal Distribution and Extracellular Activity of Granzyme B: A Serine Protease That Degrades Retinal Pigment Epithelial Tight Junctions and Extracellular Matrix Proteins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:574. [PMID: 32318066 PMCID: PMC7155911 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Granzymes are a family of serine proteases first shown to be intracellular initiators of immune-mediated cell death in target pathogenic cells. In addition to its intracellular role, Granzyme B (GzmB) has important extracellular functions in immune regulation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Verified substrates of extracellular GzmB activity include tight junctional and ECM proteins. Interestingly, little is known about the activity of GzmB in the outer human retina, a tissue in which the degradation of the tight junctional contacts of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and within the external limiting membrane, as well as remodeling of the ECM in Bruch's membrane, cause the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and slowing of metabolite transport between neuroretina and choroidal blood supply. Such pathological changes in outer retina signal early events in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a multifactorial, chronic inflammatory eye disease. This study is the first to focus on the distribution of GzmB in the outer retina of the healthy and diseased post-mortem human eye. Our results revealed that GzmB is present in RPE and choroidal mast cells. More immunoreactive cells are present in older (>65 years) compared to younger (<55 years) donor eyes, and choroidal immunoreactive cells are more numerous in eyes with choroidal neovascularization (CNV), while RPE immunoreactive cells are more numerous in eyes with soft drusen, an early AMD event. In vitro studies demonstrated that RPE-derived tight junctional and ECM proteins are cleaved by exogenous GzmB stimulation. These results suggest that the increased presence of GzmB immunoreactive cells in outer retina of older (healthy) eyes as well as in diseased eyes with CNV (from AMD) and eyes with soft drusen exacerbate ECM remodeling in the Bruch's membrane and degradation of the blood-retinal barrier. Currently there are no treatments that prevent remodeling of the Bruch's membrane and/or the loss of function of the outer blood-retinal barrier, known to promote early AMD changes, such as drusen deposition, RPE dysfunction and pro-inflammation. Specific inhibitors of GzmB, already in preclinical studies for non-ocular diseases, may provide new strategies to stop these early events associated with the development of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne A Matsubara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jing Z Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Matthew R Zeglinski
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sho Hiroyasu
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher T Turner
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David J Granville
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
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