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Burguera-Giménez N, Díez-Ajenjo MA, Burguera N, Briceno-Lopez C, Peris-Martínez C. Subfoveal and Parafoveal Choroidal Thickening in Patients with Keratoconus Using the ETDRS Grid on Swept-Source OCT. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:509-527. [PMID: 38113025 PMCID: PMC10787729 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00858-y] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is growing evidence that confirms morphological changes in the posterior structures in patients with keratoconus (KC); however, isolated alterations could have been missed. This study assesses choroidal thickness (CT) in the fovea and beyond in KC eyes. METHODS This prospective case-control and non-randomized study enrolled 107 eyes, 62 eyes of 62 patients with KC, and 45 age-matched eyes of 45 control subjects with axial length in the range of 22-26 mm. Swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) was performed to manually measure the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SCT) using a single-line scan. CT was obtained automatically from the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) grid using the 12-lines radial scan pattern. A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to evaluate CT variations among macular eccentricity, parafoveal area, and the interaction between both factors. CT was compared in all parafoveal areas between groups and subgroups of KC. RESULTS SCT was significantly thicker in KC eyes (357 ± 57 µm) than in healthy eyes (325 ± 63 µm) (p < 0.001). Significant choroidal thickening was observed in the central ring and outer and inner rings of the temporal, superior, and inferior parafoveal macular areas (p < 0.001), except in the outer ring of the nasal macular zone (p > 0.05) of KC compared to healthy eyes. The CT significantly decreased from the center to the outer ring regardless of the presence of KC (p < 0.001). The choroid in the nasal macular zone was significantly thinner than that in the temporal, superior, and inferior parafoveal areas (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The choroidal structure increased its thickness not only in the subfoveal area, but also in eight parafoveal areas of the ETDRS grid encompassing a wider area of macular examination. These findings demonstrate and corroborate that keratoconus is not a purely corneal disease. Furthermore, it confirms the role that the choroidal structure has in the pathophysiology of keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neus Burguera-Giménez
- Anterior Segment and Cornea and External Eye Diseases Unit, Fundación de Oftalmología Médica (FOM), Avda. Pío Baroja, 12, 46015, Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Optics and Optometry and Vision Sciences, Physics School, University of Valencia, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Mª Amparo Díez-Ajenjo
- Anterior Segment and Cornea and External Eye Diseases Unit, Fundación de Oftalmología Médica (FOM), Avda. Pío Baroja, 12, 46015, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Optics and Optometry and Vision Sciences, Physics School, University of Valencia, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Valencia, Spain
| | - Noemí Burguera
- Ophthalmology Department, Q Vision, Vithas Virgen del Mar Hospital, Ctra. el Mami a Viator, Km.1, 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - Celeste Briceno-Lopez
- Anterior Segment and Cornea and External Eye Diseases Unit, Fundación de Oftalmología Médica (FOM), Avda. Pío Baroja, 12, 46015, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Optics and Optometry and Vision Sciences, Physics School, University of Valencia, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Peris-Martínez
- Anterior Segment and Cornea and External Eye Diseases Unit, Fundación de Oftalmología Médica (FOM), Avda. Pío Baroja, 12, 46015, Valencia, Spain
- Surgery Department, Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010, Valencia, Spain
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Raymond-Hayling H, Lu Y, Shearer T, Kadler K. A preliminary study into the emergence of tendon microstructure during postnatal development. Matrix Biol Plus 2024; 21:100142. [PMID: 38328801 PMCID: PMC10847156 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2024.100142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tendons maintain mechanical function throughout postnatal development whilst undergoing significant microstructural changes. We present a study of postnatal tendon growth and characterise the major changes in collagen fibril architecture in mouse tail tendon from birth to eight weeks by analysing the geometries of cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy images. This study finds that a bimodal distribution of fibril diameters emerges from a unimodal distribution of narrow fibrils as early as the eighth day postnatal, and three distinct fibril populations are visible at around 14 days. The tendons in this study do not show evidence of precise hexagonal packing, even at birth, and the spaces between the fibrils remain constant throughout development. The fibril number in the tissue stabilises around day 28, and the fibril area fraction stabilises around day 26. This study gives coarse-grained insight into the transition periods in early tendon development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Raymond-Hayling
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Shearer
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Materials, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Karl Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
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53
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Nguyen Q, Lejeune E. Segmenting mechanically heterogeneous domains via unsupervised learning. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2024; 23:349-372. [PMID: 38217746 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-023-01779-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
From biological organs to soft robotics, highly deformable materials are essential components of natural and engineered systems. These highly deformable materials can have heterogeneous material properties, and can experience heterogeneous deformations with or without underlying material heterogeneity. Many recent works have established that computational modeling approaches are well suited for understanding and predicting the consequences of material heterogeneity and for interpreting observed heterogeneous strain fields. In particular, there has been significant work toward developing inverse analysis approaches that can convert observed kinematic quantities (e.g., displacement, strain) to material properties and mechanical state. Despite the success of these approaches, they are not necessarily generalizable and often rely on tight control and knowledge of boundary conditions. Here, we will build on the recent advances (and ubiquity) of machine learning approaches to explore alternative approaches to detect patterns in heterogeneous material properties and mechanical behavior. Specifically, we will explore unsupervised learning approaches to clustering and ensemble clustering to identify heterogeneous regions. Overall, we find that these approaches are effective, yet limited in their abilities. Through this initial exploration (where all data and code are published alongside this manuscript), we set the stage for future studies that more specifically adapt these methods to mechanical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Nguyen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Emma Lejeune
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Chai N, Stachon T, Berger T, Li Z, Seitz B, Langenbucher A, Szentmáry N. Short-Term Effect of Rose Bengal Photodynamic Therapy (RB-PDT) on Collagen I, Collagen V, NF-κB, LOX, TGF-β and IL-6 Expression of Human Corneal Fibroblasts, In Vitro. Curr Eye Res 2024; 49:150-157. [PMID: 37921272 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2276057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate collagen I, collagen V, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), lysyl oxidase (LOX), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression in healthy and keratoconus human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs and KC-HCFs), 24 h after Rose Bengal photodynamic therapy (RB-PDT). METHODS HCFs were isolated from healthy human corneal donors (n = 5) and KC-HCFs from elective penetrating keratoplasties (n = 5). Both cell cultures underwent RB-PDT (0.001% RB concentration, 0.17 J/cm2 fluence) and 24 h later collagen I, collagen V, NF-κB, LOX, TGF-β1 and IL-6 mRNA and protein expression have been determined using qPCR and Western blot, IL-6 concentration in the cell culture supernatant by ELISA. RESULTS TGF-β1 mRNA expression was significantly lower (p = 0.02) and IL-6 mRNA expression was significantly higher in RB-PDT treated HCFs (p = 0.01), than in HCF controls. COL1A1, COL5A1 and TGF-β1 mRNA expression was significantly lower (p = 0.04; p = 0.02 and p = 0.003) and IL-6 mRNA expression was significantly higher (p = 0.02) in treated KC-HCFs, than in KC-HCF controls. TGF-β1 protein expression in treated HCFs was significantly higher than in HCF controls (p = 0.04). IL-6 protein concentration in the HCF and KC-HCF culture supernatant after RB-PDT was significantly higher than in controls (p = 0.02; p = 0.01). No other analyzed mRNA and protein expression differed significantly between the RB-PDT treated and untreated groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that RB-PDT reduces collagen I, collagen V and TGF-β1 mRNA expression, while increasing IL-6 mRNA and protein expression in KC-HCFs. In HCFs, RB-PDT increases TGF-β1 and IL-6 protein level after 24 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Chai
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Tanja Stachon
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Tim Berger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Zhen Li
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | | | - Nóra Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Huang J, Jiang T, Li J, Qie J, Cheng X, Wang Y, Zhou T, Liu J, Han H, Yao K, Yu L. Biomimetic Corneal Stroma for Scarless Corneal Wound Healing via Structural Restoration and Microenvironment Modulation. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302889. [PMID: 37988231 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Corneal injury-induced stromal scarring causes the most common subtype of corneal blindness, and there is an unmet need to promote scarless corneal wound healing. Herein, a biomimetic corneal stroma with immunomodulatory properties is bioengineered for scarless corneal defect repair. First, a fully defined serum-free system is established to derive stromal keratocytes (hAESC-SKs) from a current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP)-grade human amniotic epithelial stem cells (hAESCs), and RNA-seq is used to validate the phenotypic transition. Moreover, hAESC-SKs are shown to possess robust immunomodulatory properties in addition to the keratocyte phenotype. Inspired by the corneal stromal extracellular matrix (ECM), a photocurable gelatin-based hydrogel is fabricated to serve as a scaffold for hAESC-SKs for bioengineering of a biomimetic corneal stroma. The rabbit corneal defect model is used to confirm that this biomimetic corneal stroma rapidly restores the corneal structure, and effectively reshapes the tissue microenvironment via proteoglycan secretion to promote transparency and inhibition of the inflammatory cascade to alleviate fibrosis, which synergistically reduces scar formation by ≈75% in addition to promoting wound healing. Overall, the strategy proposed here provides a promising solution for scarless corneal defect repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianan Huang
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection & College of Life Sciences-iCell Biotechnology Regenerative Biomedicine Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Tuoying Jiang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection & College of Life Sciences-iCell Biotechnology Regenerative Biomedicine Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Jinying Li
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection & College of Life Sciences-iCell Biotechnology Regenerative Biomedicine Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Health Industry, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, P. R. China
| | - Jiqiao Qie
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Cheng
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Yiyao Wang
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Tinglian Zhou
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Jia Liu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection & College of Life Sciences-iCell Biotechnology Regenerative Biomedicine Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
| | - Haijie Han
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Ke Yao
- Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Luyang Yu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection & College of Life Sciences-iCell Biotechnology Regenerative Biomedicine Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, P. R. China
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Lee PY, Fryc G, Gnalian J, Wang B, Hua Y, Waxman S, Zhong F, Yang B, Sigal IA. Direct measurements of collagen fiber recruitment in the posterior pole of the eye. Acta Biomater 2024; 173:135-147. [PMID: 37967694 PMCID: PMC10843755 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Collagen is the main load-bearing component of the peripapillary sclera (PPS) and lamina cribrosa (LC) in the eye. Whilst it has been shown that uncrimping and recruitment of the PPS and LC collagen fibers underlies the macro-scale nonlinear stiffening of both tissues with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), the uncrimping and recruitment as a function of local stretch have not been directly measured. This knowledge is crucial to understanding their functions in bearing loads and maintaining tissue integrity. In this project we measured local stretch-induced collagen fiber bundle uncrimping and recruitment curves of the PPS and LC. Thin coronal samples of PPS and LC of sheep eyes were mounted and stretched biaxially quasi-statically using a custom system. At each step, we imaged the PPS and LC with instant polarized light microscopy and quantified pixel-level (1.5 μm/pixel) collagen fiber orientations. We used digital image correlation to measure the local stretch and quantified collagen crimp by the circular standard deviation of fiber orientations, or waviness. Local stretch-recruitment curves of PPS and LC approximated sigmoid functions. PPS recruited more fibers than the LC at the low levels of stretch. At 10% stretch the curves crossed with 75% bundles recruited. The PPS had higher uncrimping rate and waviness remaining after recruitment than the LC: 0.9º vs. 0.6º and 3.1º vs. 2.7º. Altogether our findings support describing fiber recruitment of both PPS and LC with sigmoid curves, with the PPS recruiting faster and at lower stretch than the LC, consistent with a stiffer tissue. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Peripapillary sclera (PPS) and lamina cribrosa (LC) collagen recruitment behaviors are central to the nonlinear mechanical behavior of the posterior pole of the eye. How PPS and LC collagen fibers recruit under stretch is crucial to develop constitutive models of the tissues but remains unclear. We used image-based stretch testing to characterize PPS and LC collagen fiber bundle recruitment under local stretch. We found that fiber-level stretch-recruitment curves of PPS and LC approximated sigmoid functions. PPS recruited more fibers at a low stretch, but at 10% bundle stretch the two curves crossed with 75% bundles recruited. We also found that PPS and LC fibers had different uncrimping rates and non-zero waviness's when recruited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Yi Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gosia Fryc
- Department of Chemistry, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John Gnalian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bingrui Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yi Hua
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Susannah Waxman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Fuqiang Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Engineering, Rangos School of Health Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ian A Sigal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Zhang F, Zhang J, Zhang W. Recent advances in nanotechnology for the treatment of fungal keratitis. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:18-29. [PMID: 37198915 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231174653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a serious pathogenic disease usually associated with serious ocular complications. The current mainstay of treatment for FK is topical eye drops; however, poor corneal penetration, low bioavailability of the drug and the need to administer high and frequent doses due to the presence of an effective clearance mechanism in the eye result in poor patient compliance. Nanocarriers can extend the duration of drug action through sustained and controlled release of the drug, protect the drug from ocular enzymes and help overcome ocular barriers. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms of action of antifungal drugs, the theoretical basis for the treatment of FK, and recent advances in the clinical treatment of FK. We have summarized the results of research into the most promising nanocarriers for ocular drug delivery and highlight their efficacy and safety in the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, PR China
- Shandong Engineering Researh Center for Smart Materials and Regenerative Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, PR China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- College of Basic Medical, Qingdao Binhai University, Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Weifen Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, PR China
- Shandong Engineering Researh Center for Smart Materials and Regenerative Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, PR China
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58
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Song D, Yang Q, Li X, Chen K, Tong J, Shen Y. The role of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in acquired corneal diseases. Exp Eye Res 2024; 238:109748. [PMID: 38081573 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
Acquired corneal diseases such as dry eye disease (DED), keratitis and corneal alkali burns are significant contributors to vision impairment worldwide, and more effective and innovative therapies are urgently needed. The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway plays an indispensable role in cell metabolism, inflammation and the immune response. Studies have shown that regulators of this pathway are extensively expressed in the cornea, inducing significant activation of JAK/STAT3 signaling in specific acquired corneal diseases. The activation of JAK/STAT3 signaling contributes to various pathophysiological processes in the cornea, including inflammation, neovascularization, fibrosis, and wound healing. In the context of DED, the hypertonic environment activates JAK/STAT3 signaling to stimulate corneal inflammation. Inflammation and injury progression in infectious keratitis can also be modulated by JAK/STAT3 signaling. Furthermore, JAK/STAT3 signaling is involved in every stage of corneal repair after alkali burns, including acute inflammation, angiogenesis and fibrosis. Treatments modulating JAK/STAT3 signaling have shown promising results in attenuating corneal damage, indicating its potential as a novel therapeutic target. Thus, this review emphasizes the multiple roles of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in common acquired corneal disorders and summarizes the current achievements of JAK/STAT3-targeting therapy to provide new insights into future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjie Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Qianjie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kuangqi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Liu JX, Chiang TL, Hung KF, Sun YC. Therapeutic future of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy: An ongoing way to explore. Taiwan J Ophthalmol 2024; 14:15-26. [PMID: 38654984 PMCID: PMC11034696 DOI: 10.4103/tjo.tjo-d-23-00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is one of the most common corneal diseases that causes loss of visual acuity in the world. FECD is a genetically and pathogenetically heterogeneous disease that results in the failure of corneal endothelial cells to maintain fluid balance and functional homeostasis of the cornea. Corneal edema, central guttae formation, and bullae development are common corneal pathologies. Currently, the mainstay of FECD treatment is surgery. However, limited sources of corneal graft and postsurgical complications remain problematic. In recent years, with advances in medical science and technology, there have been a few promising trials of new treatment modalities for FECD. In addition to new surgical methods, novel modalities can be classified into pharmacological-associated treatment, cell therapy-associated treatment, and gene therapy-associated treatment. In this article, our primary focus is on the most recent clinical trials related to FECD, and we present a stepwise approach to enhance FECD management and ultimately improve patient outcomes. We thoroughly searched for FECD clinical trials and reviewed the study designs, methodologies, and outcomes of each trial conducted within the past decade. It is imperative for physicians to stay up-to-date with these cutting-edge treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Xin Liu
- College of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Lin Chiang
- College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kai-Feng Hung
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Sun
- College of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taipei, Taiwan
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Chi J, Lu M, Wang S, Xu T, Ju R, Liu C, Zhang Z, Jiang Z, Han B. Injectable hydrogels derived from marine polysaccharides as cell carriers for large corneal epithelial defects. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127084. [PMID: 37769782 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Injectable hydrogels have been employed for sutureless repair of corneal epithelial defects, which can perfectly fit the defect sites and minimize the associated discomfort. However, numerous hydrogels are ineffective in treating large corneal epithelial defects and still suffer from poor biocompatibility or weak applicability when used as cell carriers. Herein, hydroxypropyl chitin/carboxymethyl chitosan (HPCT/CMCS) temperature-sensitive hydrogels are fabricated, and their physicochemical properties and suitability for corneal epithelial repair are investigated. The results demonstrate that HPCT/CMCS hydrogels have excellent temperature sensitivity between 20 and 25 °C and a transparency of over 80 %. Besides, HPCT/CMCS hydrogels can promote cell proliferation and facilitate cell migration of primary rabbit corneal epithelial cells (CEpCs). A rabbit large corneal epithelial defect model (6 mm) is established, and CEpCs are transplanted into defect sites by HPCT/CMCS hydrogels. The results suggest that HPCT/CMCS/CEpCs significantly enhance the repair of large corneal epithelial defects with a healing rate of 99.6 % on day 8, while reducing inflammatory responses and scarring formation. Furthermore, HPCT/CMCS/CEpCs can contribute to the reconstruction of damaged tissues and the recovery of functional capacities. Overall, HPCT/CMCS hydrogels may be a feasible corneal cell carrier material and can provide an alternative approach to large corneal epithelial defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Chi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Minxin Lu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Tianjiao Xu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Ruibao Ju
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Chenqi Liu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Zhenguo Zhang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Zhen Jiang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Baoqin Han
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biomedical Materials, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts of Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266235, PR China.
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Yan D, Ouyang W, Lin J, Liu Z. Smart coating by thermo-sensitive Pluronic F-127 for enhanced corneal healing via delivery of biological macromolecule progranulin. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127586. [PMID: 37866564 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
As a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness, corneal alkali burns lead to long-term visual deterioration or even permanent visual impairment while effective treatment strategies remain a challenge. Herein, a thermo-sensitive hydrogel with the combination of multi-functional protein progranulin (PGRN), a biological macromolecule consisting of several hundred amino acids and possessing a high molecular weight, is efficiently prepared through a convenient stirring and mixing at the low temperature. The hydrogel can be easily administrated to the ocular surface contacting with the cornea, which can be immediately transformed into gel-like state due to the thermo-responsive behavior, realizing a site-specific coating to isolate further external stimulation. The smart coating not only exhibits excellent transparency and biocompatibility, but also presents a constant delivery of PGRN, creating a nutritious and supportive micro-environment for the ocular surface. The results show that the prepared functional hydrogel can efficiently suppress inflammation, accelerate re-epithelization, and intriguingly enhance axonal regeneration via modulation of multiple signaling pathways, indicating the novel designed HydrogelPGRN is a promising therapy option for serious corneal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yan
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Weijie Ouyang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Jinyou Lin
- Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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Liu Q, Nan Y, Yang Y, Li X, Jiang W, Jiao T, Li J, Jia X, Ye M, Niu Y, Yuan L. Exploring the Role of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide in Corneal Injury Repair and Investigating the Relevant Mechanisms through In Vivo and In Vitro Experiments. Molecules 2023; 29:49. [PMID: 38202631 PMCID: PMC10779902 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) is the main active component of Fructus Lycii, exhibiting various biological activities. This study aims to explore the protective effects of LBP on human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC) and a rat corneal injury model. Potential target points for LBP improving corneal injury repair were screened from public databases, and functional and pathway enrichment analyses of core targets were conducted using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Rat corneal alkali burns and HCEC oxidative stress injury models were established, and the results were validated through slit lamp examination, HE staining, TUNEL assay, immunofluorescence, CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, scratch assay, and qRT-PCR methods. In the context of database retrieval, identification of 10 LBP monosaccharide components and 50 corneal injury repair-related targets was achieved. KEGG pathway analysis suggested that LBP might regulate the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways through targets such as JUN, CASP3, and MMP9, thereby improving corneal damage. In vivo and in vitro experimental results indicated that LBP could reduce the increase of inflammation index scores (p < 0.05), inflammatory cell density (p < 0.01), TUNEL-positive cells (p < 0.01), corneal opacity scores (p < 0.01), and expression of corneal stromal fibrosis-related proteins α-SMA, FN, and COL (p < 0.01) caused by chemical damage to rat corneas. LBP inhibited oxidative stress-induced decreases in cell viability (p < 0.001) and migration healing ability (p < 0.01) in HCECs, reducing apoptosis rates (p < 0.001), ROS levels (p < 0.001), and the expression of inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-6 (p < 0.01). qRT-PCR results demonstrated that LBP intervention decreased the mRNA levels of JUN, CASP3, and MMP9 in H2O2-induced alkaline-burned corneas and HCECs (p < 0.01).The integrated results from network pharmacology and validation experiments suggest that the inhibitory effects of LBP on apoptosis, inflammation, and fibrosis after corneal injury may be achieved through the suppression of the TNF and IL-17 signaling pathways mediated by JUN, CASP3, and MMP9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Yi Nan
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Yifan Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.Y.); (M.Y.)
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Wenjie Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Taiqiang Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Jiaqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Xusheng Jia
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Mengyi Ye
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Y.Y.); (M.Y.)
| | - Yang Niu
- Key Laboratory of Ningxia Ethnomedicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China; (Q.L.); (Y.N.); (X.L.); (W.J.); (T.J.); (J.L.); (X.J.)
| | - Ling Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
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Tapia Lishner SE, Marquez-Curtis LA, Elliott JAW. Permeation kinetics of dimethyl sulfoxide in porcine corneoscleral discs. Cryobiology 2023; 113:104566. [PMID: 37572874 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
The cornea is the transparent tissue in front of the eye that bends light to help the eye focus. More than five million people's vision can be restored by a corneal transplant (keratoplasty), but there is a scarcity of suitable donor tissue. Cryopreservation could potentially increase the on-demand availability of corneas by reducing expiration and contamination during hypothermic storage, and allow equitable distribution. Understanding the transport of water and cryoprotectants across the tissue is important in developing effective cryopreservation protocols. Here, we first measured the shrinking and swelling kinetics at 22 °C and 0 °C of porcine corneoscleral discs when exposed to phosphate-buffered saline and to a cryoprotectant vehicle solution containing 2.5% chondroitin sulfate and 1% dextran. Other valuable measurements were made including the density and osmolality of the vehicle solution at 0 °C, and the water fraction of porcine cornea and sclera. Using the knowledge gained from this first part to minimize background swelling, we then examined permeation kinetics of dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO) in porcine corneoscleral discs at 0 °C, the temperature at which cryoprotectant loading typically occurs. The concentration data obtained as a function of time were fitted to a Fick's law model of one-dimensional diffusion to measure an effective diffusion coefficient of Me2SO, which was found to be 5.306×10-11 m2/s. We further quantified permeation kinetics of Me2SO in sclera alone at 0 °C to support our hypothesis that our measurements for corneoscleral discs will not be affected by the presence of the sclera. The obtained effective diffusion coefficient can be used in modelling aimed at developing cryopreservation protocols that minimize the exposure time of the corneas during the cryoprotectant loading step.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leah A Marquez-Curtis
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Janet A W Elliott
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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64
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Vrehen AF, Rutten MGTA, Dankers PYW. Development of a Fully Synthetic Corneal Stromal Construct via Supramolecular Hydrogel Engineering. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301392. [PMID: 37747759 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in the field of ophthalmology show great potential in the design of bioengineered constructs to mimic the corneal stroma. Hydrogels based on synthetic supramolecular polymers, are attractive synthetic mimics of the natural highly hydrated corneal stroma. Here, a fully synthetic corneal stromal construct is developed via engineering of an injectable supramolecular hydrogel based on ureido-pyrimidinone (UPy) moieties. The hydrogel displays a dynamic and tunable behavior, which allows for control of biochemical and mechanical cues. Two hydrogels are developed, a fully synthetic hydrogel functionalized with a bioactive cyclic arginine-glycine-aspartate UPy (UPy-cRGD) additive, and a hybrid hydrogel based on UPy-moieties mixed with collagen type I fibers. Both hydrogels supported cell encapsulation and associated cellular deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins after 21 days. Excitingly, the hydrogels support the activation of isolated primary keratocytes into stromal fibroblasts as well as the differentiation toward more quiescent corneal stromal keratocytes, demonstrated by their characteristic long dendritic protrusions and a substantially diminished cytokine secretion. Furthermore, cells survive shear stresses during an injectability test. Together, these findings highlight the development of an injectable supramolecular hydrogel as a synthetic corneal stromal microenvironment able to host primary keratocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika F Vrehen
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 7, Eindhoven, 5612 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Martin G T A Rutten
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 7, Eindhoven, 5612 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Patricia Y W Dankers
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 7, Eindhoven, 5612 AZ, The Netherlands
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Bhattacharjee P, Madden PW, Patriarca E, Ahearne M. Optimization and evaluation of oxygen-plasma-modified, aligned, poly (Є-caprolactone) and silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. BIOMATERIALS AND BIOSYSTEMS 2023; 12:100083. [PMID: 37731910 PMCID: PMC10507194 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbiosy.2023.100083] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The shortage of human donor corneas for transplantation necessitates the exploration of tissue engineering approaches to develop corneal substitutes. However, these substitutes must possess the necessary strength, transparency, and ability to regulate cell behaviour before they can be used in patients. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of an oxygen plasma surface-modified poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) combined with silk fibroin (SF) nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. To fabricate the electrospun scaffolds, PCL and SF blends were used on a rotating mandrel. The optimization of the blend aimed to replicate the structural and functional properties of the human cornea, focusing on nanofibre alignment, mechanical characteristics, and in vitro cytocompatibility with human corneal stromal keratocytes. Surface modification of the scaffold resulted in improved transparency and enhanced cell interaction. Based on the evaluation, a composite nanofibrous scaffold with a 1:1 blend of PCL and SF was selected for a more comprehensive analysis. The biological response of keratocytes to the scaffold was assessed through cellular adhesion, proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, gene expression, and immunocytochemical staining. The scaffold facilitated the adhesion of corneal stromal cells, supporting cell proliferation, maintaining normal cytoskeletal organization, and promoting increased expression of genes associated with healthy corneal stromal keratocytes. These findings highlight the potential of a surface-modified PCL/SF blend (1:1) as a promising scaffolding material for corneal stromal regeneration. The developed scaffold not only demonstrated favourable biological interactions with corneal stromal cells but also exhibited characteristics aligned with the requirements for successful corneal tissue engineering. Further research and refinement of these constructs could lead to significant advancements in addressing the shortage of corneas for transplantation, ultimately improving the treatment outcomes for patients in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Promita Bhattacharjee
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter W. Madden
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Enzo Patriarca
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ahearne
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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66
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Gingras AA, Jansen PA, Smith C, Zhang X, Niu Y, Zhao Y, Roberts CJ, Herderick ED, Swindle-Reilly KE. 3D Bioprinting of Acellular Corneal Stromal Scaffolds with a Low Cost Modified 3D Printer: A Feasibility Study. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:1112-1121. [PMID: 37669915 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2251172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Loss of corneal transparency is one of the major causes of visual loss, generating a considerable health and economic burden globally. Corneal transplantation is the leading treatment procedure, where the diseased cornea is replaced by donated corneal tissue. Despite the rise of cornea donations in the past decade, there is still a huge gap between cornea supply and demand worldwide. 3D bioprinting is an emerging technology that can be used to fabricate tissue equivalents that resemble the native tissue, which holds great potential for corneal tissue engineering application. This study evaluates the manufacturability of 3D bioprinted acellular corneal grafts using low-cost equipment and software, not necessarily designed for bioprinting applications. This approach allows access to 3D printed structures where commercial 3D bioprinters are cost prohibitive and not readily accessible to researchers and clinicians. METHODS Two extrusion-based methods were used to 3D print acellular corneal stromal scaffolds with collagen, alginate, and alginate-gelatin composite bioinks from a digital corneal model. Compression testing was used to determine moduli. RESULTS The printed model was visually transparent with tunable mechanical properties. The model had central radius of curvature of 7.4 mm, diameter of 13.2 mm, and central thickness of 0.4 mm. The compressive secant modulus of the material was 23.7 ± 1.7 kPa at 20% strain. 3D printing into a concave mold had reliability advantages over printing into a convex mold. CONCLUSIONS The printed corneal models exhibited visible transparency and a dome shape, demonstrating the potential of this process for the preparation of acellular partial thickness corneal replacements. The modified printing process presented a low-cost option for corneal bioprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia A Gingras
- Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Peter A Jansen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Caroline Smith
- Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xu Zhang
- Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ye Niu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Cynthia J Roberts
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Edward D Herderick
- Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Katelyn E Swindle-Reilly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Li Q, Sun Y, Zhao H, Gao Z, Zhai D. Structure and properties of the acellular porcine cornea irradiated with electron beam and its in-situ implantation. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2023; 111:2013-2024. [PMID: 37477184 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Different sterilization doses of the electron beam (E-beam) will change the properties of biomaterials and affect their clinical application. Acellular porcine cornea (APC) is a promising corneal substitute to alleviate the shortage of corneal resources. The residual DNA was significantly reduced to 18.50 ± 3.19 ng/mg, and the clearance rate of α-Gal was close to 100% after the treatment with freezing-thawing combined enzyme, indicating that the decellularization was effective. The effects of different E-beam doses at 0, 2, 8, 15, and 25 kGy on the APC were studied. With the increase in irradiation dose, the transmittance, tensile strength, and swelling ratio of APC gradually decreased, but the resistance to enzymatic degradation was stronger than that of non-irradiated APC, especially at 8 kGy. The structure of APC was denser after irradiation, but the dose of 25 kGy could cause partial collagen fiber fracture and increase the pore size. The cell viability of the APC irradiated by 15 and 25 kGy were greater than 80%. After the implantation in rabbit corneas, there was no obvious neovascularization and inflammation, but the dose of 25 kGy had a more destructive effect on the chemical bonds of collagen, which made the APC easier to be degraded. The thickness of APC in the 25 kGy group was thinner than that in the 15 kGy group 1 year after surgery, and the epithelium grew more slowly, so the E-beam dose of 15 kGy might be more suitable for the sterilization of APC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Li
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yajun Sun
- Research and Development Center, Qingdao Chunghao Tissue Engineering Co., Ltd., Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Haibin Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiyong Gao
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dongjie Zhai
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Ji F, Quinn M, Hua Y, Lee PY, Sigal IA. 2D or not 2D? Mapping the in-depth inclination of the collagen fibers of the corneoscleral shell. Exp Eye Res 2023; 237:109701. [PMID: 37898229 PMCID: PMC10872428 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
The collagen fibers of the corneoscleral shell play a central role in the eye mechanical behavior. Although it is well-known that these fibers form a complex three-dimensional interwoven structure, biomechanical and microstructural studies often assume that the fibers are aligned in-plane with the tissues. This is convenient as it removes the out-of-plane components and allows focusing on the 2D maps of in-plane fiber organization that are often quite complex. The simplification, however, risks missing potentially important aspects of the tissue architecture and mechanics. In the cornea, for instance, fibers with high in-depth inclination have been shown to be mechanically important. Outside the cornea, the in-depth fiber orientations have not been characterized, preventing a deeper understanding of their potential roles. Our goal was to characterize in-depth collagen fiber organization over the whole corneoscleral shell. Seven sheep whole-globe axial sections from eyes fixed at an IOP of 50 mmHg were imaged using polarized light microscopy to measure collagen fiber orientations and density. In-depth fiber orientation distributions and anisotropy (degree of fiber alignment) accounting for fiber density were quantified over the whole sclera and in 15 regions: central cornea, peripheral cornea, limbus, anterior equator, equator, posterior equator, posterior sclera and peripapillary sclera on both nasal and temporal sides. Orientation distributions were fitted using a combination of a uniform distribution and a sum of π-periodic von Mises distributions, each with three parameters: primary orientation μ, fiber concentration factor k, and weighting factor a. To study the features of fibers that are not in-plane, i.e., fiber inclination, we quantified the percentage of inclined fibers and the range of inclination angles (half width at half maximum of inclination angle distribution). Our measurements showed that the fibers were not uniformly in-plane but exhibited instead a wide range of in-depth orientations, with fibers significantly more aligned in-plane in the anterior parts of the globe. We found that fitting the orientation distributions required between one and three π-periodic von Mises distributions with different primary orientations and fiber concentration factors. Regions of the posterior globe, particularly on the temporal side, had a larger percentage of inclined fibers and a larger range of inclination angles than anterior and equatorial regions. Variations of orientation distributions and anisotropies may imply varying out-of-plane tissue mechanical properties around the eye globe. Out-of-plane fibers could indicate fiber interweaving, not necessarily long, inclined fibers. Effects of small-scale fiber undulations, or crimp, were minimized by using tissues from eyes at high IOPs. These fiber features also play a role in tissue stiffness and stability and are therefore also important experimental information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengting Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marissa Quinn
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yi Hua
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering and Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Po-Yi Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ian A Sigal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Ballesteros-Sánchez A, Peraza-Nieves J, Casablanca-Piñera A, Rodríguez-Calvo-De-Mora M, Catalán-Coronado S, Torras-Sanvicens J, Borroni D, Sánchez-González JM, Rocha-De-Lossada C. Scheimpflug Corneal Densitometry Patterns at the Graft-Host Interface in DMEK and DSAEK: A 12-Month Longitudinal Comparative Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7133. [PMID: 38002744 PMCID: PMC10672394 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To compare corneal densitometry (CD) patterns at the graft-host interface between Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK). Corneal densitometry is a quantitative assessment that objectively evaluates corneal clarity and optical quality by measuring the light backscatter from the cornea. METHODS Fifty-one eyes that received DMEK or DSAEK surgery for corneal endothelium dysfunction were evaluated. The primary endpoint included CD patterns at the graft-host interface, which were assessed by the Pentacam HR device at the center point of the corneal horizontal meridian (CDcentral), and at six points on the central circumference of the cornea (with a total diameter of 4 mm) (CDI,II,III,IV,V,VI). Secondary endpoints included the best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), and graft thickness (GT). All of the evaluations were performed at follow-up appointments one, three, six and twelve months after the procedure. RESULTS DMEK showed a significant overall CD reduction of -7.9 ± 8.5 grayscale unit (GSU) compared to DSAEK (p < 0.001). In addition, the DMEK group showed significantly lower CDCentral,I,II,III,IV,V,VI values at follow-up appointments one, three, six and twelve months after the procedure compared to the DSAEK group (p < 0.001). BCDVA, CCT and GT were in favor of the DMEK group with a mean value of 0.39 ± 0.35 LogMar, 552.2 ± 71.1 µm and 11.03 ± 1.4 µm, respectively (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS CD patterns at the graft-host interface seem to be different depending on the endothelial keratoplasty procedure. This provides specific insight into CD changes in this critical region of surgery, which may provide a better understanding of the postoperative evolution of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ballesteros-Sánchez
- Department of Physics of Condensed Matter, Optics Area, University of Seville, 41004 Seville, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novovision Ophthalmologic Clinic, 30008 Murcia, Spain
| | - Jorge Peraza-Nieves
- Anterior Segment Department, Institut Clinic D’Oftalmologia, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.P.-N.); (A.C.-P.); (S.C.-C.); (J.T.-S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Castellar Clinic, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Casablanca-Piñera
- Anterior Segment Department, Institut Clinic D’Oftalmologia, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.P.-N.); (A.C.-P.); (S.C.-C.); (J.T.-S.)
| | - Marina Rodríguez-Calvo-De-Mora
- Qvision, Ophthalmology Department, VITHAS Almeria Hospital, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (M.R.-C.-D.-M.); (C.R.-D.-L.)
- Ophthalmology Department, VITHAS Malaga, 29016 Malaga, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Regional Universitario, 29011 Malaga, Spain
| | - Saray Catalán-Coronado
- Anterior Segment Department, Institut Clinic D’Oftalmologia, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.P.-N.); (A.C.-P.); (S.C.-C.); (J.T.-S.)
| | - Josep Torras-Sanvicens
- Anterior Segment Department, Institut Clinic D’Oftalmologia, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (J.P.-N.); (A.C.-P.); (S.C.-C.); (J.T.-S.)
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Davide Borroni
- Department of Doctoral Studies, Riga Stradins University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia;
- Advalia Vision, Cornea Research Unit, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Carlos Rocha-De-Lossada
- Qvision, Ophthalmology Department, VITHAS Almeria Hospital, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (M.R.-C.-D.-M.); (C.R.-D.-L.)
- Ophthalmology Department, VITHAS Malaga, 29016 Malaga, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Regional Universitario, 29011 Malaga, Spain
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology Area, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
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70
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Wang C, Shen M, Song Y, Chang L, Yang Y, Li Y, Liu T, Wang Y. Biaxial hyperelastic and anisotropic behaviors of the corneal anterior central stroma along the preferential fibril orientations. Part I: Measurement and calibration of personalized stress-strain curves. Exp Eye Res 2023; 236:109677. [PMID: 37827443 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Lacking specimens is the biggest limitation of studying the mechanical behaviors of human corneal. Extracting stress-strain curves is the crucial step in investigating hyperelastic and anisotropic properties of human cornea. 15 human corneal specimens extracted from the small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery were applied in this study. To accurately measure the personalized true stress-strain curve using corneal lenticules, the digital image correlation (DIC) method and finite element method were used to calibrate the stress and the strain of the biaxial extension test. The hyperelastic load-displacement curves obtained from the biaxial extension test were performed in preferential fibril orientations, which are arranged along the nasal-temporal (NT) and the superior-inferior (SI) directions within the anterior central stroma. The displacement and strain fields were accurately calibrated and calculated using the digital image correlation (DIC) method. A conversion equation was given to convert the effective engineering strain to the true strain. The stress field distribution, which was simulated using the finite element method, was verified. Based on this, the effective nominal stress with personalized characteristics was calibrated. The personalized stress-strain curves containing individual characteristic, like diopter and anterior surface curvature, was accurately measured in this study. These results provide an experimental method using biaxial tensile test with corneal lenticules. It is the foundation for investigating the hyperelasticity and anisotropy of the central anterior stroma of human cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congzheng Wang
- Department of Mechanics, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Min Shen
- Department of Mechanics, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Yi Song
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300020, China; Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Le Chang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300020, China; Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yaqing Yang
- Department of Mechanics, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yikuan Li
- Department of Mechanics, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Taiwei Liu
- Department of Mechanics, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China; Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Civil Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dong Chuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300020, China; Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
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71
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Mahler SBC, Adams C, Daas L, Langenbucher A, Seitz B. Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Salzmann's Nodular Degeneration. What Effect Does the Choice of Excimer Laser Have on Treatment Success? Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2023; 240:1262-1268. [PMID: 35584772 DOI: 10.1055/a-1788-3819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess the difference in treatment success after phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for Salzmann's nodular degeneration (SND) using two excimer lasers with different specifications. PATIENTS AND METHODS 272 PTK procedures, which had been performed on 246 eyes with SND from 181 patients, were retrospectively examined in the period from 2007 to 2017. Until 2014 the excimer laser MEL70 (Carl Zeiss Meditec Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH, Oberkochen, Germany) was used for PTK following manual pannectomy, and after 2014 the excimer laser Amaris 750S (Schwind eye-tech-solutions GmbH, Kleinostheim, Germany) was used. Treatment success was assessed on basis of visual acuity, refraction, and astigmatism, as well as pachymetry and endothelial cell count, recorded at the following time points: T1 = preoperative, T2 = 6-week follow-up, T3 = 6-month follow-up. The Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney U test and the chi-square test with a significance level of 5% were used to compare the data. RESULTS A significantly higher improvement of 0.17 ± 0.33 logMAR could be shown for visual acuity in the Schwind group (p < 0.013) after 6 months. In the Zeiss group, visual acuity improved by only 0.11 ± 0.36 (logMAR p < 0.057). Regarding refraction, a significant reduction of the spherical equivalent (SEQ) (p < 0.001) by 3.35 ± 2.76 diopters (D) after 6 months could only be shown for the Schwind group. SEQ did not change significantly in the Zeiss group (p < 0.676). The topographic astigmatism was significantly improved after 6 months in both study groups, by 1.73 ± 1.99 D in the Schwind group (p < 0.001) and by 1.99 ± 2.21 D in the Zeiss group (p < 0.0001). Haze had to be treated in 12.7% of the cases in the Schwind group and in 16.2% of the cases in the Zeiss group. No endothelial cell damage was found in either group. CONCLUSIONS In both study groups, the patients with SND clearly benefited from PTK. However, a significantly higher advantage for visual acuity and refraction was shown for the Schwind group compared with the Zeiss group. In contrast to the usual hyperopic effect of PTK in other diagnoses, PTK in SND showed a "myopic shift", which can be explained by the often midperipheral SND nodes and the associated asymmetric tear film pooling prior to surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christian Adams
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Loay Daas
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Achim Langenbucher
- Institut für Experimentelle Ophthalmologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland
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72
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Maiti G, Ashworth S, Choi T, Chakravarti S. Molecular cues for immune cells from small leucine-rich repeat proteoglycans in their extracellular matrix-associated and free forms. Matrix Biol 2023; 123:48-58. [PMID: 37793508 PMCID: PMC10841460 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
In this review we highlight emerging immune regulatory functions of lumican, keratocan, fibromodulin, biglycan and decorin, which are members of the small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRP) of the extracellular matrix (ECM). These SLRPs have been studied extensively as collagen-fibril regulatory structural components of the skin, cornea, bone and cartilage in homeostasis. However, SLRPs released from a remodeling ECM, or synthesized by activated fibroblasts and immune cells contribute to an ECM-free pool in tissues and circulation, that may have a significant, but poorly understood foot print in inflammation and disease. Their molecular interactions and the signaling networks they influence also require investigations. Here we present studies on the leucine-rich repeat (LRR) motifs of SLRP core proteins, their evolutionary and functional relationships with other LRR pathogen recognition receptors, such as the toll-like receptors (TLRs) to bring some molecular clarity in the immune regulatory functions of SLRPs. We discuss molecular interactions of fragments and intact SLRPs, and how some of these interactions are likely modulated by glycosaminoglycan side chains. We integrate findings on molecular interactions of these SLRPs together with what is known about their presence in circulation and lymph nodes (LN), which are important sites of immune cell regulation. Recent bulk and single cell RNA sequencing studies have identified subsets of stromal reticular cells that express these SLRPs within LNs. An understanding of the cellular source, molecular interactions and signaling consequences will lead to a fundamental understanding of how SLRPs modulate immune responses, and to therapeutic tools based on these SLRPs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Maiti
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sean Ashworth
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tansol Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Shukti Chakravarti
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
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73
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Tang Y, Du E, Wang G, Qin F, Meng Z, Dai L, Wang Y, Ren S. A negative feedback loop centered on SMAD3 expression in transforming growth factor β1-induced corneal myofibroblast differentiation. Exp Eye Res 2023; 236:109654. [PMID: 37734427 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
SMAD3 downregulation is documented in transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)-induced corneal fibroblasts differentiation to myofibroblasts ("fibroTOmyoDiff") or corneal wound healing. However, the exact regulatory mechanism of TGF-β1/SMAD3 pathway in this context remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role and related mechanism of SMAD3 down-regulation in TGF-β1-induced human corneal fibroTOmyoDiff. By detecting expression changes of SMAD family during this process, we demonstrated that SMAD3 protein expression was dramatically decreased in the process and the decrease occurred mainly in SMAD3 gene transcription. Furthermore, SMAD3 overexpression using lentivirus infection and knockdown using sgRNA lentivirus infection or siRNAs revealed that SMAD3 overexpression enhanced TGF-β1-induced corneal fibroTOmyoDiff and vice versa. In addition, specific siRNAs and inhibitors targeting particular signaling pathway were used to figure out the intracellular signaling pathway regulating SMAD3, and the result showed that the decease of SMAD3 induced by TGF-β1 stimulation in human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) was strikingly prevented by SMAD4 knockdown or p38 signaling inhibitor SB203580 treatment. Collectively, these results demonstrate that, in TGF-β1 induced corneal fibroTOmyoDiff, down-regulation of SMAD3 expression regulated by SMAD4 and p38 signaling pathways forms a negative feedback loop of TGFβ signaling to avoid excessive activation of the signaling, which suggest that SMAD3 may be a key target for corneal fibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlan Tang
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Enming Du
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Fangyuan Qin
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Zhihong Meng
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Lijuan Dai
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Yiqiang Wang
- Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Shengwei Ren
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
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74
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Ghosh S, Humera Khathun AH, Athulya GS, Vignesh P, Mathan L, Mudaraddi N, Narendran S, Lalitha P, Venkatesh Prajna N. Host cell-type and pathogen-specific immunomodulatory functions of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in infectious keratitis. Exp Eye Res 2023; 236:109669. [PMID: 37774962 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic management of inflammation in infectious keratitis (IK) requires new strategy and targets for selective immunomodulation. Targeting host cell-type specific inflammatory responses might be a viable strategy to curtail unnecessary inflammation and reduce tissue damage without affecting pathogen clearance. This study explores the possibility of pathogen and host cell-type dependent differences in the inflammatory pathways relevant in the pathogenesis of IK. Human corneal epithelial cell line (HCEC) and phorbol 12-myristate-13 acetate (PMA) differentiated THP-1 macrophage line were infected with either Aspergillus flavus conidia or Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites and the elicited inflammatory responses were studied in terms of gene expression and secretion of proinflammatory factors interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and an upstream inflammatory regulator and mediator protein-the Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF). Given the pleotropic mode of MIF function in diverse cell types relevant in many human diseases, we tested if MIF driven responses to infection is different in HCECs and THP-1 macrophages by studying its expression, secretion and involvement in inflammation by siRNA mediated knockdown. We also examined IK patient tear samples for MIF levels. Infection with A. flavus or A. castellanii induced IL-8 and TNF-α responses in HCECs and THP-1 macrophages but to different levels. Our preliminary human data showed that the level of secreted MIF protein was elevated in IK patient tear, however, MIF secretion by the two cell types were strikingly different in-vitro, under both normal and infected conditions. We found that HCECs released MIF constitutively, which was significantly inhibited with infection, whereas THP-1 macrophages were stimulated to release MIF during infection. MIF gene expression remained largely unaffected by infection in both the cell lines. Although MIF in HCECs appeared to be intracellularly captured during infection, MIF knockdown in HCECs associated with a partial reduction of the IL-8 and TNF-α expression produced by either of the pathogens, suggesting a pro-inflammatory role for MIF in HCECs, independent of its canonical cytokine like function. In contrast, MIF knockdown in THP-1 macrophages accompanied a dramatic increase in IL-8 and TNF-α expression during A. castellanii infection, while the responses to A. flavus infection remained unchanged. These data imply a host cell-type and pathogen specific distinction in the MIF- related inflammatory signaling and MIF as a potential selective immunomodulatory target in infectious keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swagata Ghosh
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India.
| | - A H Humera Khathun
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India
| | - G S Athulya
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India
| | - P Vignesh
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India
| | - L Mathan
- Department of Proteomics, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India
| | - Ninad Mudaraddi
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India
| | - Siddharth Narendran
- Department of Microbiology, Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Madurai, India; Aravind Eye Hospital, Coimbatore, India
| | - Prajna Lalitha
- Department of Ocular Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India
| | - N Venkatesh Prajna
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India
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Chameettachal S, Venuganti A, Parekh Y, Prasad D, Joshi VP, Vashishtha A, Basu S, Singh V, Bokara KK, Pati F. Human cornea-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel for prevention of post-traumatic corneal scarring: A translational approach. Acta Biomater 2023; 171:289-307. [PMID: 37683964 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Corneal scarring and opacification are a significant cause of blindness affecting millions worldwide. The current standard of care for corneal blindness is corneal transplantation, which suffers from several drawbacks. One alternative approach that has shown promise is the use of xenogeneic corneal extracellular matrix (ECM), but its clinical applicability is challenging due to safety concerns. This study reports the innovative use of human cornea-derived ECM to prevent post-traumatic corneal scarring. About 30 - 40% of corneas donated to the eye banks do not meet the standards defined for clinical use and are generally discarded, although they are completely screened for their safety. In this study, human cornea-derived decellularized ECM hydrogel was prepared from the non-transplantation grade human cadaveric corneas obtained from an accredited eye-bank. The prepared hydrogel was screened for its efficacy against corneal opacification following an injury in an animal model. Our in vivo study revealed that, the control collagen-treated group developed corneal opacification, while the prophylactic application of human cornea-derived hydrogel effectively prevented corneal scarring and opacification. The human hydrogel-treated corneas were indistinguishable from healthy corneas and comparable to those treated with the xenogeneic bovine corneal hydrogel. We also demonstrated that the application of the hydrogel retained the biological milieu including cell behavior, protein components, optical properties, curvature, and nerve regeneration by remodeling the corneal wound after injury. The hydrogel application is also sutureless, resulting in faster corneal healing. We envision that this human cornea-derived ECM-based hydrogel has potential clinical application in preventing scarring from corneal wounding. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: There are significant challenges surrounding corneal regeneration after injury due to extensive scarring. Although there is substantial research on corneal regeneration, much of it uses synthetic materials with chemical cross-linking methods or xenogeneic tissue-based material devices which have to undergo exhaustive safety analysis before clinical trials. Herein, we demonstrate the potential application of a human corneal extracellular matrix hydrogel without any additional materials for scarless corneal tissue regeneration, and a method to reduce the wasting of donated allogenic corneal tissue from eye banks. We found no difference in efficacy between the usage of human tissues compared to xenogeneic sources. This may help ease clinical translation and can be used topically without sutures as an outpatient procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibu Chameettachal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | - Animith Venuganti
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Yash Parekh
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Deeksha Prasad
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Vineet P Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India; Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Anviti Vashishtha
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Vivek Singh
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Kiran Kumar Bokara
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Falguni Pati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India.
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76
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Sobczak M, Asejczyk M, Wilczyński M. The effect of pupil size on the measurement of corneal birefringence properties: preliminary study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17439. [PMID: 37838761 PMCID: PMC10576786 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44706-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
We used a partial Mueller matrix polarimeter to measure the corneal anisotropic properties at three pupil sizes (dilated, natural, and constricted). The geometrical parameters of first order isochromes were described by quadrilaterals. These parameters are statistically significantly different between the three pupil sizes. The pupillary size changes do not influence the azimuth angle distribution α. The retardation R and birefringence distributions show asymmetry in the nasal-temporal cross-section. There are differences between pupil sizes for both nasal and temporal parts of the cornea for these distributions. Iridial light scattering and diffraction might be the reason for these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelina Sobczak
- Department of Optics and Photonics, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Stanisława Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland.
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, 800 Atwater, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States.
| | - Magdalena Asejczyk
- Department of Optics and Photonics, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Stanisława Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Maciej Wilczyński
- Faculty of Pure and Applied Mathematics, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Stanisława Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
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77
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Alizadeh M, Habach F, Maciulis M, Kontenis L, Bagdonas S, Krouglov S, Baranauskas V, Bulotiene D, Karabanovas V, Rotomskis R, Akens MK, Barzda V. Polarimetric second harmonic generation microscopy of partially oriented fibers II: Imaging study. Biophys J 2023; 122:3937-3949. [PMID: 37621088 PMCID: PMC10560685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Polarimetric second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy imaging is employed to investigate the ultrastructural organization of biological and biomimetic partially oriented fibrillar structures. The linear polarization-in polarization-out SHG microscopy measurements are conducted with rat tail tendon, rabbit cornea, pig cartilage, and biomimetic meso-tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphine (TPPS4) cylindrical aggregates, which represent different two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) configurations of C6 symmetry fibril structures in the focal volume (voxel) of the microscope. The polarization-in polarization-out imaging of rat tail tendon reveals that SHG intensity is affected by parallel/antiparallel arrangements of the fibers, and achiral (R) and chiral (C) susceptibility component ratio values change by tilting the tendon fibers out of image plane. The R ratio changes for the 2D crossing fibers observed in cornea tissue. The 3D crossing of fibers also affects R ratio in cartilage tissue. The distinctly different dependence of R on crossing and tilting of fibers is demonstrated in collagen and TPPS4 aggregates, due to the achiral molecular susceptibility ratio having values below and above 3, respectively. The polarimetric microscopy results correspond well with the analytical expressions of amplitude and R and C ratios dependence on the crossing angle of the fibers. The experimentally measured SHG intensity and R and C ratio maps are consistent with the computational modeling of various fiber configurations presented in the preceding article. The demonstrated SHG intensity and R and C ratio dependencies on fibril configurations provide the basis for interpreting polarimetric SHG microscopy images in terms of 3D ultrastructural organization of fibers in each voxel of the samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Alizadeh
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Fayez Habach
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mykolas Maciulis
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Lukas Kontenis
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania; Light Conversion, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Saulius Bagdonas
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Serguei Krouglov
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vytautas Baranauskas
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Danute Bulotiene
- Biomedical Physics Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vitalijus Karabanovas
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania; Biomedical Physics Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania; Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ricardas Rotomskis
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania; Biomedical Physics Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Margarete K Akens
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Techna Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Virginijus Barzda
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
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Zhou L, Ho BM, Chan HYE, Tong Y, Du L, He JN, Ng DSC, Tham CC, Pang CP, Chu WK. Emerging Roles of cGAS-STING Signaling in Mediating Ocular Inflammation. J Innate Immun 2023; 15:739-750. [PMID: 37778330 PMCID: PMC10616671 DOI: 10.1159/000533897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS), a sensor of cytosolic DNA, recognizes cytoplasmic nucleic acids to activate the innate immune responses via generation of the second messenger cGAMP and subsequent activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STINGs). The cGAS-STING signaling has multiple immunologic and physiological functions in all human vital organs. It mediates protective innate immune defense against DNA-containing pathogen infection, confers intrinsic antitumor immunity via detecting tumor-derived DNA, and gives rise to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases upon aberrant activation by cytosolic leakage of self-genomic and mitochondrial DNA. Disruptions in these functions are associated with the pathophysiology of various immunologic and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent evidence indicates important roles of the cGAS-STING signaling in mediating inflammatory responses in ocular inflammatory and inflammation-associated diseases, such as keratitis, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and uveitis. In this review, we summarize the recently emerging evidence of cGAS-STING signaling in mediating ocular inflammatory responses and affecting pathogenesis of these complex eye diseases. We attempt to provide insightful perspectives on future directions of investigating cGAS-STING signaling in ocular inflammation. Understanding how cGAS-STING signaling is modulated to mediate ocular inflammatory responses would allow future development of novel therapeutic strategies to treat ocular inflammation and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linbin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Bo Man Ho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Hoi Ying Emily Chan
- Medicine Programme Global Physician-Leadership Stream, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yan Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Jing Na He
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Danny Siu-Chun Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Clement C. Tham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Wai Kit Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
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79
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Bradford S, Luo S, Brown D, Juhasz T, Jester J. A review of the epithelial and stromal effects of corneal collagen crosslinking. Ocul Surf 2023; 30:150-159. [PMID: 37683969 PMCID: PMC10993773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Induced corneal collagen crosslinking and mechanical stiffening via ultraviolet-A photoactivation of riboflavin (UVA CXL) is now a common treatment for corneal ectasia and Keratoconus. Some effects of the procedure such as induced mechanical stiffening, corneal flattening, and cellular toxicity are well-known, but others remain more controversial. Authors report a variety of contradictory effects, and provide evidence based on individual results and observations. A full understanding of the effects of and mechanisms behind this procedure are essential to predicting its outcome. A growing interest in modifications to the standard UVA CXL protocol, such as transepithelial or accelerated UVA CXL, makes analyzing the literature as a whole more urgent. This review presents an analysis of both the agreed-upon and contradictory results reported and the various methods used to obtain them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Bradford
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Shangbang Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Donald Brown
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Tibor Juhasz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - James Jester
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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80
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Daeschler SC, Woo JH, Hussein I, Ali A, Borschel GH. Corneal Neurotization: Preoperative Patient Workup and Surgical Decision-making. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e5334. [PMID: 37829104 PMCID: PMC10566830 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Background The use of sensory nerve transfers to the anesthetic cornea has transformed the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy by restoring ocular surface sensation and activating dysfunctional epithelial repair mechanisms. However, despite numerous reports on surgical techniques, there is a scarcity of information on the interdisciplinary management, preoperative assessment, and surgical decision-making, which are equally critical to treatment success. Methods This Special Topic presents a standardized, interdisciplinary preoperative workup based on our 10-year experience with corneal neurotization in 32 eyes of patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. Results Our assessment includes a medical history review, ophthalmic evaluation, and systematic facial sensory donor nerve mapping for light touch and pain modalities. This approach enables evidence-based patient selection, optimal surgery timing, and suitable donor nerve identification, including backup options. Conclusions Based on a decade-long experience, this special topic highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and provides a practical roadmap for optimizing patient selection and surgical decision-making in patients undergoing corneal neurotization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon C. Daeschler
- From the SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Heidelberg, BG Trauma Hospital, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Jyh Haur Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Isra Hussein
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gregory H. Borschel
- From the SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
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81
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Martínez-Carrasco R, Argüeso P. Characterization of Cell Surface Glycan Profiles in Human and Mouse Corneas Using Lectin Microarrays. Cells 2023; 12:2356. [PMID: 37830569 PMCID: PMC10572028 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies has facilitated the profiling of glycosylation genes at a single-cell level in complex biological systems, but the significance of these gene signatures to the composition of the glycocalyx remains ambiguous. Here, we used lectin microarrays to characterize the composition of cell surface glycans in human and mouse corneas and determine its relationship to single-cell transcriptomic data. Our results identify a series of cell surface glycan signatures that are unique to the different cell types of the human cornea and that correlate, to a certain extent, with the transcriptional expression of glycosylation genes. These include pathways involved in the biosynthesis of O-glycans in epithelial cells and core fucose on stromal and endothelial cell surfaces. Moreover, we show that human and mouse corneas display some structural differences in terms of cell surface glycan composition. These results could provide insights into the specialized function of individual cell types in the cornea and foster the identification of novel cornea-specific biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pablo Argüeso
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Wang X, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Ali ZM, Chan V, Corridon PR. A proposed model of xeno-keratoplasty using 3D printing and decellularization. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1193606. [PMID: 37799970 PMCID: PMC10548234 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1193606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal opacity is a leading cause of vision impairment and suffering worldwide. Transplantation can effectively restore vision and reduce chronic discomfort. However, there is a considerable shortage of viable corneal graft tissues. Tissue engineering may address this issue by advancing xeno-keratoplasty as a viable alternative to conventional keratoplasty. In particular, livestock decellularization strategies offer the potential to generate bioartificial ocular prosthetics in sufficient supply to match existing and projected needs. To this end, we have examined the best practices and characterizations that have supported the current state-of-the-art driving preclinical and clinical applications. Identifying the challenges that delimit activities to supplement the donor corneal pool derived from acellular scaffolds allowed us to hypothesize a model for keratoprosthesis applications derived from livestock combining 3D printing and decellularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wang
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zehara Mohammed Ali
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vincent Chan
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Peter R. Corridon
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Hleathcare, Engineering and Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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83
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Choi AJ, Hefley BS, Nicholas SE, Cunningham RL, Karamichos D. Novel Correlation between TGF-β1/-β3 and Hormone Receptors in the Human Corneal Stroma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13635. [PMID: 37686439 PMCID: PMC10487450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the interplay between transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β1/T1 and TGF-β3/T3), and sex hormone receptors using our 3D in vitro cornea stroma model. Primary human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) from healthy donors were plated in transwells at 106 cells/well and cultured for four weeks. HCFs were supplemented with stable vitamin C (VitC) and stimulated with T1 or T3. 3D construct proteins were analyzed for the androgen receptor (AR), progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ), luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR), KiSS1-derived peptide receptor (KiSS1R/GPR54), and follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSH-B). In female constructs, T1 significantly upregulated AR, PR, ERα, FSHR, GnRHR, and KiSS1R. In male constructs, T1 significantly downregulated FSHR and FSH-B and significantly upregulated ERα, ERβ, and GnRHR. T3 caused significant upregulation in expressions PR, ERα, ERβ, LHR, FSHR, and GNRHR in female constructs, and significant downregulation of AR, ERα, and FSHR in male constructs. Semi-quantitative Western blot findings present the interplay between sex hormone receptors and TGF-β isoforms in the corneal stroma, which is influenced by sex as a biological variable (SABV). Additional studies are warranted to fully delineate their interactions and signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J. Choi
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Brenna S. Hefley
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Sarah E. Nicholas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Rebecca L. Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
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Sanie-Jahromi F, Nowroozzadeh MH, Emadi Z, Eghtedari M, Khajehahmadi Z. Intra-stromal injection of honey-treated keratocytes as a cell-based therapy for experimental corneal laceration. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 20:604-611. [PMID: 37277938 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2023-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the potential of honey-supplemented medium (HSM) for expanding corneal keratocytes and its transplantation in a model of corneal laceration. METHODS Keratocytes were cultured in 1 % HSM- or 10 % fetal bovine serum (FBS)-supplemented medium for 24 h. The effect of HSM on keratocyte proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay. The relative expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1, known markers of native keratocytes, was quantified by real-time PCR. The safety and efficacy of HSM-treated keratocyte intrastromal injection in a rabbit model of corneal laceration were also evaluated. RESULTS The MTT assay showed that HSM treatment did not significantly affect cell viability compared to FBS-supplemented medium (84.71 ± 2.38 vs. 100.08 ± 10.92, respectively; p=0.076). Moreover, HSM-treated keratocytes had significantly increased expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1 compared to cells treated with FBS, while the expression of the proliferation biomarker Thy-1 did not significantly differ between the two treatments. Intrastromal injection of HSM-treated keratocytes in the laceration animal model was safe and uneventful, resulting in less stromal inflammation and neovascularization, and consequently, better final architecture with less residual haze compared to the group injected with FBS-treated keratocytes. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that honey is a suitable supplement for keratocyte treatment and corneal cell therapy. The use of HSM may have potential applications in the treatment of corneal injuries and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - M Hossein Nowroozzadeh
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Emadi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Eghtedari
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Khajehahmadi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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85
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Niemczyk M, Iskander DR. Measuring intraocular pressure with OCT: the first approach. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:4531-4541. [PMID: 37791274 PMCID: PMC10545197 DOI: 10.1364/boe.500546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The variability of corneal OCT speckle statistics is indirectly related to changes in corneal microstructure, which may be induced by intraocular pressure (IOP). A new approach is considered, which attempts to estimate IOP based on corneal speckle statistics in OCT images. An area (A) under trajectories of contrast ratio with respect to stromal depth was calculated. The proposed method was evaluated on OCT images from the ex-vivo study on porcine eyeballs and in-vivo study on human corneas. A statistically significant multivariate linear regression model was obtained from the ex-vivo study: IOP = 0.70 · A - 6.11, in which IOP was precisely controlled in the anterior chamber. The ex-vivo study showed good correlation between A and IOP (R = 0.628, at the least) whereas the in-vivo study showed poor correlation between A and clinical air-puff tonometry based estimates of IOP (R = 0.351, at the most), indicating substantial differences between the two studies. The results of the ex-vivo study show the potential for OCT speckle statistics to be utilized for measuring IOP using static corneal imaging that does not require corneal deformation. Nevertheless, further work is needed to validate this approach in living human corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Niemczyk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - D. Robert Iskander
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
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86
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Yang C, Nguyen DD, Lai J. Poly(l-Histidine)-Mediated On-Demand Therapeutic Delivery of Roughened Ceria Nanocages for Treatment of Chemical Eye Injury. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302174. [PMID: 37430140 PMCID: PMC10502830 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Development of topical bioactive formulations capable of overcoming the low bioavailability of conventional eye drops is critically important for efficient management of ocular chemical burns. Herein, a nanomedicine strategy is presented to harness the surface roughness-controlled ceria nanocages (SRCNs) and poly(l-histidine) surface coatings for triggering multiple bioactive roles of intrinsically therapeutic nanocarriers and promoting transport across corneal epithelial barriers as well as achieving on-demand release of dual drugs [acetylcholine chloride (ACh) and SB431542] at the lesion site. Specifically, the high surface roughness helps improve cellular uptake and therapeutic activity of SRCNs while exerting a negligible impact on good ocular biocompatibility of the nanomaterials. Moreover, the high poly(l-histidine) coating amount can endow the SRCNs with an ≈24-fold enhancement in corneal penetration and an effective smart release of ACh and SB431542 in response to endogenous pH changes caused by tissue injury/inflammation. In a rat model of alkali burn, topical single-dose nanoformulation can efficaciously reduce corneal wound areas (19-fold improvement as compared to a marketed eye drops), attenuate ≈93% abnormal blood vessels, and restore corneal transparency to almost normal at 4 days post-administration, suggesting great promise for designing multifunctional metallic nanotherapeutics for ocular pharmacology and tissue regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia‐Jung Yang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
| | - Duc Dung Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
| | - Jui‐Yang Lai
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
- Department of OphthalmologyChang Gung Memorial Hospital, LinkouTaoyuan33305Taiwan
- Department of Materials EngineeringMing Chi University of TechnologyNew Taipei City24301Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal MedicineCollege of Human EcologyChang Gung University of Science and TechnologyTaoyuan33303Taiwan
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Song X, Liang Y, Zhou S, Xie W, Yang Q, Ma N, Shen X. Glutamine alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-induced corneal epithelial inflammation and oxidative stress in dogs. Exp Eye Res 2023; 234:109607. [PMID: 37517541 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogenic bacteria in canine ophthalmology. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component in the cell wall of gram-negative bacteria, is released following bacterial lysis and causes pathology and inflammation of the cornea. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial keratitis, and the reuse of antibiotics can easily cause bacterial resistance. Research has shown that glutamine (GLN) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biological functions. Herein, we explored the effects and underlying mechanisms of GLN and established an LPS-induced cornea inflammation model. Treatment groups comprised: control check (CK), LPS, LPS + GLN, and Sham groups. Topical GLN treatment alleviated corneal opacity, reduced corneal injury, and accelerated corneal wound healing. Furthermore, GLN treatment altered the uniform distribution of corneal epithelial cells and transformed the healing approach of these cells in the corneal wound from crawling to filling. The expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), IL-6, TNF-α, and p-p65 and the activity of myeloperoxidase and superoxide dismutase decreased while the content of malondialdehyde increased in the LPS + GLN group compared with those in the LPS group. Thus, our study suggests that LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress may be suppressed via the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway by GLN and that GLN could be used as an adjunct therapy to reduce antibiotic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokun Song
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yuxuan Liang
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Shendong Zhou
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wan Xie
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Qifeng Yang
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Nana Ma
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xiangzhen Shen
- Ministry of Education Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Tinasi ALSN, Silveira CPB, Honsho CS, Laus JL, Aldrovani M. Birefringence analysis of collagen supraorganization in cat corneas with tropical keratopathy. Vet Ophthalmol 2023; 26:398-406. [PMID: 37335898 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the birefringent properties of the cornea and examine the supraorganizational aspects of collagen fibers in cats with tropical keratopathy. PROCEDURE In this study, 10-micrometer-thick sections of corneal tissue from cats with tropical keratopathy were examined, both in the opaque and transparent areas of the anterior stroma. Control samples were obtained from healthy cat corneas. Polarized light microscopy was employed to evaluate the birefringent properties using two distinct methods. The first method involved measuring the optical retardation associated with corneal birefringence, while the second method assessed the alignment/waviness of the birefringent collagen fibers. Differences were significant when p < .05. RESULTS Tropical keratopathy resulted in a significant rise (p < .05) in optical retardation in both opaque and transparent regions of the cat cornea. In the anterior stroma, both the opaque zones and transparent tissue exhibited a higher degree of collagen fiber packing than the control corneas. However, no significant differences (p > .05) in alignment were observed between the transparent tissue of the diseased cornea and the healthy corneas. CONCLUSION Supraorganizational changes in collagen fiber packing are not restricted to lesion zones in cat corneas affected by tropical keratopathy. Such alterations also occur in the corneal tissue of the anterior stroma adjoining the lesions. Therefore, it is plausible that the transparent tissue of the anterior stroma in corneas affected by the disease may have functional abnormalities, despite its macroscopic healthy appearance. Additional investigations are required to clarify the implications of these potential defects and their conceivable contribution to tropical keratopathy.
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Regnault G, Kirby MA, Wang RK, Shen TT, O’Donnell M, Pelivanov I. Possible depth-resolved reconstruction of shear moduli in the cornea following collagen crosslinking (CXL) with optical coherence tomography and elastography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:5005-5021. [PMID: 37791258 PMCID: PMC10545180 DOI: 10.1364/boe.497970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) is commonly used to prevent or treat keratoconus. Although changes in corneal stiffness induced by CXL surgery can be monitored with non-contact dynamic optical coherence elastography (OCE) by tracking mechanical wave propagation, depth dependent changes are still unclear if the cornea is not crosslinked through the whole depth. Here, phase-decorrelation measurements on optical coherence tomography (OCT) structural images are combined with acoustic micro-tapping (AµT) OCE to explore possible reconstruction of depth-dependent stiffness within crosslinked corneas in an ex vivo human cornea sample. Experimental OCT images are analyzed to define the penetration depth of CXL into the cornea. In a representative ex vivo human cornea sample, crosslinking depth varied from ∼100 µm in the periphery to ∼150 µm in the cornea center and exhibited a sharp in-depth transition between crosslinked and untreated areas. This information was used in an analytical two-layer guided wave propagation model to quantify the stiffness of the treated layer. We also discuss how the elastic moduli of partially CXL-treated cornea layers reflect the effective engineering stiffness of the entire cornea to properly quantify corneal deformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Regnault
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Mitchell A. Kirby
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ruikang K. Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tueng T. Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Matthew O’Donnell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ivan Pelivanov
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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90
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Joseph R, Boateng A, Srivastava OP, Pfister RR. Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 (FGFR2) in Corneal Stromal Thinning. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:40. [PMID: 37750740 PMCID: PMC10541240 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.12.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the role of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2)-mediated signaling in keratocytes during corneal development, a keratocyte-specific FGFR2-knockout (named FGFR2cKO) mouse model was generated, and its phenotypic characteristics were determined. Methods A FGFR2cKO mouse model was generated by the following method: FGFR2 flox mice were crossed with the inducible keratocyte specific-Cre mice (Kera-rtTA/tet-O-Cre). Both male and female FGFR2cKO- and control mice (1 to 3-months-old) were analyzed for changes in corneal topography and pachymetry maps using the optical coherence tomography (OCT) method. The comparative TUNEL assay and immunohistochemical analyses were performed using corneas of FGFR2cKO and control mice to determine apoptotic cells, and expression of collagen-1 and fibronectin. Transmission electron microscopic analysis was conducted to determine collagen structures and their diameters in corneas of FGFR2cKO and control mice. Results OCT-analyses of corneas of FGFR2cKO mice (n = 24) showed localized central thinning and an increased corneal steepness compared to control mice (n = 23). FGFR2cKO mice further showed a decreased expression in collagen-1, decreased collagen diameters, acute corneal hydrops, an increased fibronectin expression, and an increased number of TUNEL-positive cells suggesting altered collagen structures and keratocytes' apoptosis in the corneas of FGFR2cKO mice compared to control mice. Conclusions The FGFR2cKO mice showed several corneal phenotypes (as described above in the results) that are also exhibited by the human keratoconus corneas. The results suggested that the FGFR2cKO mouse model serves to elucidate not only the yet unknown role of FGFR2-mediated signaling in corneal physiology but also serves as a model to determine molecular mechanism of human keratoconus development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Joseph
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Akosua Boateng
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
| | - Om P. Srivastava
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States
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91
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Pérez-Corral J, Cardona G, Piñero DP, Barroso D, Armadans L. Short- and mid-term changes in CORVIS ST parameters in successful, adult orthokeratology patients. Clin Exp Optom 2023; 106:726-733. [PMID: 36375143 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2022.2140031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE The changes in various biomechanical and tomographic characteristics of the cornea associated with orthokeratology may allow us to identify potential mid- and long-term structural alterations, resulting in a better understanding of the governing mechanisms of this procedure and in its optimisation. BACKGROUND The study aimed at describing short and mid-term changes in CORVIS ST® parameters and indices in orthokeratology (ortho-k), and their diurnal variations. METHODS A prospective observational study was designed in which several CORVIS ST® parameters of 75 new adult participants successfully fitted with overnight ortho-k Seefree® (Conóptica - Hecht Contactlinsen) contact lenses were explored. Measurements were conducted in baseline (BL) conditions and in the morning and evening at the one-night (1 NM/1NT), one-week (1WM/1 WT) and 3-month (3 MM/3MT) follow-up visits. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were found in DARatio_2 mm, IntRad, ARTh, CBI and TBI following overnight ortho-k, when compared with BL values, with most values reaching stability at 1WM or reverting to BL values at 3 MM. The ARTh and CBI parameters showed some of the most significant temporal variations (both p < 0.001), probably reflecting the encountered differences in central corneal thickness between BL and 1WM (p = 0.010) and between BL and 3 MM (p = 0.016). In general, corneal rigidity was higher in the morning at all follow-up visits, and decreased during the day. No statistically significant changes in adjusted intraocular pressure values were found. CONCLUSION Ortho-k in adults may be considered a safe procedure in terms of short and mid-term changes in CORVIS ST® parameters. The observed alterations in most of the parameters provided by the Corvis ST® probably responded to the well-described changes in corneal pachymetry and tomography, rather than to actual alterations in corneal rigidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Pérez-Corral
- School of Optics and Optometry, Department of Optics and Optometry, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Terrassa, Spain
| | - Genis Cardona
- School of Optics and Optometry, Department of Optics and Optometry, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Terrassa, Spain
| | - David P Piñero
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - David Barroso
- School of Optics and Optometry, Department of Optics and Optometry, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Terrassa, Spain
| | - Laura Armadans
- School of Optics and Optometry, Department of Optics and Optometry, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Terrassa, Spain
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92
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Raoux C, Chessel A, Mahou P, Latour G, Schanne-Klein MC. Unveiling the lamellar structure of the human cornea over its full thickness using polarization-resolved SHG microscopy. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2023; 12:190. [PMID: 37528091 PMCID: PMC10394036 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-023-01224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
A key property of the human cornea is to maintain its curvature and consequently its refraction capability despite daily changes in intraocular pressure. This is closely related to the multiscale structure of the corneal stroma, which consists of 1-3 µm-thick stacked lamellae made of thin collagen fibrils. Nevertheless, the distribution, size, and orientation of these lamellae along the depth of the cornea are poorly characterized up to now. In this study, we use second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy to visualize the collagen distribution over the full depth of 10 intact and unstained human corneas (500-600 µm thick). We take advantage of the small coherence length in epi-detection to axially resolve the lamellae while maintaining the corneal physiological curvature. Moreover, as raw epi-detected SHG images are spatially homogenous because of the sub-wavelength size of stromal collagen fibrils, we use a polarimetric approach to measure the collagen orientation in every voxel. After a careful validation of this approach, we show that the collagen lamellae (i) are mostly oriented along the inferior-superior axis in the anterior stroma and along the nasal-temporal axis in the posterior stroma, with a gradual shift in between and (ii) exhibit more disorder in the anterior stroma. These results represent the first quantitative characterization of the lamellar structure of the human cornea continuously along its entire thickness with micrometric resolution. It also shows the unique potential of P-SHG microscopy for imaging of collagen distribution in thick dense tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clothilde Raoux
- Laboratory for Optics and Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
| | - Anatole Chessel
- Laboratory for Optics and Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
| | - Pierre Mahou
- Laboratory for Optics and Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
| | - Gaël Latour
- Laboratory for Optics and Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, 91190, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Marie-Claire Schanne-Klein
- Laboratory for Optics and Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France.
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93
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Rodrigues PF, Moscovici BK, Hoehne JL, Campos MSDQ, Morandim-Giannetti ADA, Bersanetti PA, Nosé W. Spectrophotometric Analysis of Different Polymethyl Methacrylate Filters and their Importance in the Implantation of Corneal Rings. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:731-735. [PMID: 37092541 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2202365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study evaluated the luminous behavior applied to materials used in intraocular surgeries. METHODS Discs of the different products were delivered in 19.00 mm × 3.00 mm. Each sample was fixed on support keeping it perpendicular to the spectrophotometer beam. Later, their analyses were carried out in the air/PMMA ratio. The graphs of individual profiles of the measurements along the length were constructed according to each of the filters from the spectrophotometric analysis. In addition, descriptive statistics of transmittance and absorbance for each wavelength presented were correlated for each filter. RESULTS It is possible to observe that the minimum absorption measure was found in the Red Filter, especially in the blue and green light spectrum. CONCLUSION Using filters in PMMA materials appears to improve visual quality in corneal implants, especially the red filter, due to greater absorbance of light leading to fewer light scattering phenomena through corneal rings. However, further studies comparing the effects of different filters on Intracorneal rings should be carried out to elucidate this field of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Felipe Rodrigues
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bernardo Kaplan Moscovici
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lopes Hoehne
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mauro Silveira de Queiroz Campos
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Walton Nosé
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Gerardo-Nava JL, Jansen J, Günther D, Klasen L, Thiebes AL, Niessing B, Bergerbit C, Meyer AA, Linkhorst J, Barth M, Akhyari P, Stingl J, Nagel S, Stiehl T, Lampert A, Leube R, Wessling M, Santoro F, Ingebrandt S, Jockenhoevel S, Herrmann A, Fischer H, Wagner W, Schmitt RH, Kiessling F, Kramann R, De Laporte L. Transformative Materials to Create 3D Functional Human Tissue Models In Vitro in a Reproducible Manner. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301030. [PMID: 37311209 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Recreating human tissues and organs in the petri dish to establish models as tools in biomedical sciences has gained momentum. These models can provide insight into mechanisms of human physiology, disease onset, and progression, and improve drug target validation, as well as the development of new medical therapeutics. Transformative materials play an important role in this evolution, as they can be programmed to direct cell behavior and fate by controlling the activity of bioactive molecules and material properties. Using nature as an inspiration, scientists are creating materials that incorporate specific biological processes observed during human organogenesis and tissue regeneration. This article presents the reader with state-of-the-art developments in the field of in vitro tissue engineering and the challenges related to the design, production, and translation of these transformative materials. Advances regarding (stem) cell sources, expansion, and differentiation, and how novel responsive materials, automated and large-scale fabrication processes, culture conditions, in situ monitoring systems, and computer simulations are required to create functional human tissue models that are relevant and efficient for drug discovery, are described. This paper illustrates how these different technologies need to converge to generate in vitro life-like human tissue models that provide a platform to answer health-based scientific questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Gerardo-Nava
- Advanced Materials for Biomedicine (AMB), Institute of Applied Medical Engineering (AME), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Center for Biohybrid Medical Systems (CMBS), Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jitske Jansen
- Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology and Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3584CG, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Günther
- Advanced Materials for Biomedicine (AMB), Institute of Applied Medical Engineering (AME), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Center for Biohybrid Medical Systems (CMBS), Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), Advanced Materials for Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Laura Klasen
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), Advanced Materials for Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anja Lena Thiebes
- Department of Biohybrid and Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME - Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD, Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastian Niessing
- Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT, Steinbachstraße 17, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Cédric Bergerbit
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anna A Meyer
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), Advanced Materials for Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - John Linkhorst
- Department of Chemical Process Engineering (AVT.CVT), RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 51, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mareike Barth
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Payam Akhyari
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Stingl
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital of RWTH, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Saskia Nagel
- Applied Ethics Group, RWTH Aachen University, Theaterplatz 14, 52062, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Stiehl
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine - Disease Modeling, RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 55, 52062, Aachen, Germany
| | - Angelika Lampert
- Institute of Neurohysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52057, Aachen, Germany
| | - Matthias Wessling
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Chemical Process Engineering (AVT.CVT), RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 51, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Francesca Santoro
- Neuroelectronic Interfaces Research Group, RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 55, 52062, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sven Ingebrandt
- Institute of Materials in Electrical Engineering 1, RWTH Aachen University, Sommerfeldstraße 18, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid and Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME - Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD, Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Herrmann
- Advanced Materials for Biomedicine (AMB), Institute of Applied Medical Engineering (AME), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Center for Biohybrid Medical Systems (CMBS), Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), Advanced Materials for Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Horst Fischer
- Department of Dental Materials and Biomaterials Research, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wagner
- Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Robert H Schmitt
- Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT, Steinbachstraße 17, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Laboratory for Machine Tools and Production Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Campus-boulevard 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rafael Kramann
- Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology and Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3584CG, The Netherlands
| | - Laura De Laporte
- Advanced Materials for Biomedicine (AMB), Institute of Applied Medical Engineering (AME), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Center for Biohybrid Medical Systems (CMBS), Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstraße 50, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), Advanced Materials for Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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Hsiao CW, Cheng H, Ghafouri R, Ferko NC, Ayres BD. Corneal Outcomes Following Cataract Surgery Using Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Devices Composed of Chondroitin Sulfate-Hyaluronic Acid: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:2083-2096. [PMID: 37521151 PMCID: PMC10378560 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s419863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) are commonly used during cataract surgery to protect the corneal endothelium. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the clinical evidence of OVDs composed of chondroitin sulfate-hyaluronic acid (CS-HA) versus other OVDs in maintaining endothelial cell density (ECD) and corneal thickness (CT). Methods MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched from 2000 to 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs, N ≥ 20 per group) comparing an OVD containing CS-HA (ie, VISCOAT®, DuoVisc® or DisCoVisc®) to any other OVD were included. The identified comparators were limited to the OVDs found in the literature, which included those composed of HA-only or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Outcomes of focus included changes in ECD (baseline to 3 months) and CT (baseline to 24 hours). Meta-analyses were performed using R software, to assess mean differences (MD) in ECD and CT change between CS-HA OVDs and HA-only or HPMC OVDs. Results A total of 966 abstracts were screened, and data were extracted from 12 RCTs. Meta-analyses using a random-effects model revealed significantly lower percent (%) decrease in ECD for CS-HA OVDs compared to both HA-only (MD: -4.10%; 95% CI: -5.81 to -2.40; p < 0.0001; 9 studies) and HPMC (MD: -6.47%; 95% CI: -10.41 to -2.52; p = 0.001; 2 studies) products. Similarly, % CT increase was significantly lower with CS-HA than with HA-only OVDs (MD: -3.22%; 95% CI: -6.24% to -0.20%; p = 0.04; 4 studies). However, there were no significant differences when comparing % CT change between CS-HA and HPMC OVDs (MD: 2.65%; 95% CI: -0.43% to 0.95%; p = 0.4; 2 studies). Conclusion CS-HA OVDs lead to less postoperative loss of endothelial cells and may better protect corneal endothelium during cataract surgery, relative to other OVDs. Future randomized studies may be needed to solidify these findings.
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96
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Boix-Lemonche G, Nagymihaly RM, Niemi EM, Josifovska N, Johansen S, Moe MC, Scholz H, Petrovski G. Intracorneal Implantation of 3D Bioprinted Scaffolds Containing Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Using Femtosecond-Laser-Assisted Intrastromal Keratoplasty. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2200422. [PMID: 36729619 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Injury of the cornea is a complex biological process. Regeneration of the corneal stroma can be facilitated by the presence of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and application of tissue equivalents. A new tissue-engineering strategy for corneal stroma regeneration is presented using cellularized 3D bioprinted hydrogel constructs implanted into organ cultured porcine corneas using femtosecond laser-assisted intrastromal keratoplasty. The ex vivo cultured, MSC-loaded 3D bioprinted structures remain intact, support cell survival, and contain de novo synthesized extracellular matrix components and migrating cells throughout the observation period. At day 14 postimplantation, the cellularized tissue equivalents contain few or no cells, as demonstrated by optical coherence tomography imaging and immunofluorescent staining. This study successfully combines a laboratory-based method with modern, patient-care practice to produce a cell-laden tissue equivalent for corneal implantation. Optimal bioink composition and cellularization of tissue equivalents are essential in fine-tuning a method to promote the current technique as a future treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Boix-Lemonche
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0450, Norway
| | | | - Essi M Niemi
- Vascular Biology and Surgery Group, Institute for Surgical Research and Department of Vascular Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Post Box 4950, Oslo, Nydalen, N-0424, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub, Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0349, Norway
| | - Natasha Josifovska
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0450, Norway
| | | | - Morten C Moe
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0450, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0450, Norway
| | - Hanne Scholz
- Hybrid Technology Hub, Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0349, Norway
- Cell Transplantation and Tissue Engineering Group, Institute for Surgical Research and Section for Transplant Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Post Box 4950, Oslo, Nydalen, N-0424, Norway
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0450, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0450, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
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Sumioka T, Matsumoto KI, Reinach PS, Saika S. Tenascins and osteopontin in biological response in cornea. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:131-149. [PMID: 37209968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The structural composition, integrity and regular curvature of the cornea contribute to the maintenance of its transparency and vision. Disruption of its integrity caused by injury results in scarring, inflammation and neovascularization followed by losses in transparency. These sight compromising effects is caused by dysfunctional corneal resident cell responses induced by the wound healing process. Upregulation of growth factors/cytokines and neuropeptides affect development of aberrant behavior. These factors trigger keratocytes to first transform into activated fibroblasts and then to myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts express extracellular matrix components for tissue repair and contract the tissue to facilitate wound closure. Proper remodeling following primary repair is critical for restoration of transparency and visual function. Extracellular matrix components contributing to the healing process are divided into two groups; a group of classical tissue structural components and matrix macromolecules that modulate cell behaviors/activities besides being integrated into the matrix structure. The latter components are designated as matricellular proteins. Their functionality is elicited through mechanisms which modulate the scaffold integrity, cell behaviors, activation/inactivation of either growth factors or cytoplasmic signaling regulation. We discuss here the functional roles of matricellular proteins in mediating injury-induced corneal tissue repair. The roles are described of major matricellular proteins, which include tenascin C, tenascin X and osteopontin. Focus is directed towards dealing with their roles in modulating individual activities of wound healing-related growth factors, e. g., transforming growth factor β (TGF β). Modulation of matricellular protein functions could encompass a potential novel strategy to improve the outcome of injury-induced corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Sumioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, 811-1 Kimiidera, 641-0012, Japan.
| | - Ken-Ichi Matsumoto
- Department of Biosignaling and Radioisotope Experiment, Interdisciplinary Center for Science Research, Head Office for Research and Academic Information, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo, 693-8501, Japan
| | - Peter Sol Reinach
- Department of Biological. Sciences SUNY Optometry, New York, NY, 10036, USA
| | - Shizuya Saika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, 811-1 Kimiidera, 641-0012, Japan
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98
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Bhujel B, Oh SH, Kim CM, Yoon YJ, Kim YJ, Chung HS, Ye EA, Lee H, Kim JY. Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Exosomes: A Novel Therapeutic Approach for Corneal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10917. [PMID: 37446091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea, with its delicate structure, is vulnerable to damage from physical, chemical, and genetic factors. Corneal transplantation, including penetrating and lamellar keratoplasties, can restore the functions of the cornea in cases of severe damage. However, the process of corneal transplantation presents considerable obstacles, including a shortage of available donors, the risk of severe graft rejection, and potentially life-threatening complications. Over the past few decades, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has become a novel alternative approach to corneal regeneration. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of MSCs to differentiate into different corneal cell types, such as keratocytes, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells. MSCs are considered a suitable candidate for corneal regeneration because of their promising therapeutic perspective and beneficial properties. MSCs compromise unique immunomodulation, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory properties and secrete various growth factors, thus promoting corneal reconstruction. These effects in corneal engineering are mediated by MSCs differentiating into different lineages and paracrine action via exosomes. Early studies have proven the roles of MSC-derived exosomes in corneal regeneration by reducing inflammation, inhibiting neovascularization, and angiogenesis, and by promoting cell proliferation. This review highlights the contribution of MSCs and MSC-derived exosomes, their current usage status to overcome corneal disease, and their potential to restore different corneal layers as novel therapeutic agents. It also discusses feasible future possibilities, applications, challenges, and opportunities for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basanta Bhujel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Heon Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Min Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye-Ji Yoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jae Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Seok Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ah Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Yong Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88, Olympic-Ro, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
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99
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Vottonen L, Koskela A, Felszeghy S, Wylegala A, Kryszan K, Gurubaran IS, Kaarniranta K, Wylegala E. Oxidative Stress and Cellular Protein Accumulation Are Present in Keratoconus, Macular Corneal Dystrophy, and Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4332. [PMID: 37445366 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate oxidative stress as well as cellular protein accumulation in corneal diseases including keratoconus (KC), macular corneal dystrophy (MCD), and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) at their primary affecting sites. Corneal buttons from KC, MCD, and FECD patients, as well as healthy controls, were analyzed immunohistochemically to evaluate the presence of oxidative stress and the function of the proteostasis network. 4-Fydroxynonenal (4-HNE) was used as a marker of oxidative stress, whereas the levels of catalase and heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) were analyzed to evaluate the response of the antioxidant defense system and molecular chaperones, respectively. Sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) levels were determined to assess protein aggregation and the functionality of autophagic degradation. Basal epithelial cells of the KC samples showed increased levels of oxidative stress marker 4-HNE and antioxidant enzyme catalase together with elevated levels of HSP70 and accumulation of SQSTM1. Corneal stromal cells and endothelial cells from MCD and FECD samples, respectively, showed similarly increased levels of these markers. All corneal diseases showed the presence of oxidative stress and activation of the molecular chaperone response to sustain protein homeostasis. However, the accumulation of protein aggregates suggests insufficient function of the protective mechanisms to limit the oxidative damage and removal of protein aggregates via autophagy. These results suggest that oxidative stress has a role in KC, MCD, and FECD at the cellular level as a secondary outcome. Thus, antioxidant- and autophagy-targeted therapies could be included as supporting care when treating KC or corneal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Vottonen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ali Koskela
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Szabolcs Felszeghy
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Adam Wylegala
- Health Promotion and Obesity Management Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
- Ophthalmology Department, Railway Hospital, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
| | | | | | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Edward Wylegala
- Ophthalmology Department, Railway Hospital, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, II School of Medicine with the Division of Dentistry in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
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100
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Zhang C, Xiao J, Fa L, Jiang F, Jiang H, Zhou L, Xu Z. Advances in the applications of mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium in ocular diseases. Exp Eye Res 2023:109560. [PMID: 37385531 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM), also known as secretome, is secreted by MSC and contains a variety of bioactive factors with anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotection, and proliferation effects. Increasing evidence proved that MSC-CM plays an important role in various diseases, including skin, bone, muscle, and dental diseases. However, the role of MSC-CM in ocular diseases is not quite clear, Therefore, this article reviewed the composition, biological functions, preparation, and characterization of MSC-CM and summarized current research advances in different sources of MSC-CM in corneal and retinal diseases, including dry eye, corneal epithelial damage, chemical corneal injury, retinitis pigmentosa (RP), anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and other retinal degenerative changes. For these diseases, MSC-CM can promote cell proliferation, reduce inflammation and vascular leakage, inhibit retinal cell degeneration and apoptosis, protect corneal and retinal structures, and further improves visual function. Hence, we summarize the production, composition and biological functions of MSC-CM and focus on describing its mechanisms in the treatment of ocular diseases. Furthermore, we look at the unexplored mechanisms and further research directions for MSC-CM based therapy in ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Luzhong Fa
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Fanwen Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhuping Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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