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Arrigo A, Bandello F. Molecular Features of Classic Retinal Drugs, Retinal Therapeutic Targets and Emerging Treatments. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13071102. [PMID: 34371793 PMCID: PMC8309124 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13071102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of exudative retinal diseases underwent a revolution due to the introduction of intravitreal treatments. There are two main classes of intravitreal drugs, namely anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) and corticosteroids molecules. The clinical course and the outcome of retinal diseases radically changed thanks to the efficacy of these molecules in determining the regression of the exudation and the restoration of the macular profile. In this review, we described the molecular features of classic retinal drugs, highlighting the main therapeutic targets, and we provided an overview of new emerging molecules. We performed a systematic review of the current literature available in the MEDLINE library, focusing on current intravitreal molecules and on new emerging therapies. The anti-VEGF molecules include Bevacizumab, Pegaptanib, Ranibizumab, Aflibercept, Conbercept, Brolucizumab, Abicipar-pegol and Faricimab. The corticosteroids approach is mainly based on the employment of triamcinolone acetonide, dexamethasone and fluocinolone acetonide molecules. Many clinical trials and real-life reports demonstrated their efficacy in exudative retinal diseases, highlighting differences in terms of molecular targeting and pharmacologic profiles. Furthermore, several new molecules are currently under investigation. Intravitreal drugs focus their activity on a wide range of therapeutic targets and are safe and efficacy in managing retinal diseases.
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Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Damage in Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration Like NFE2L2/PGC-1α -/- Mouse Model Evoke Complement Component C5a Independent of C3. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070622. [PMID: 34356477 PMCID: PMC8301195 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aging-associated chronic oxidative stress and inflammation are known to be involved in various diseases, e.g., age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Previously, we reported the presence of dry AMD-like signs, such as elevated oxidative stress, dysfunctional mitophagy and the accumulation of detrimental oxidized materials in the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (NFE2L2/PGC1α) double knockout (dKO) mouse model. Here, we investigated the dynamics of inflammatory markers in one-year-old NFE2L2/PGC1α dKO mice. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed an increase in levels of Toll-like receptors 3 and 9, while those of NOD-like receptor 3 were decreased in NFE2L2/PGC1α dKO retinal specimens as compared to wild type animals. Further analysis showed a trend towards an increase in complement component C5a independent of component C3, observed to be tightly regulated by complement factor H. Interestingly, we found that thrombin, a serine protease enzyme, was involved in enhancing the terminal pathway producing C5a, independent of C3. We also detected an increase in primary acute phase C-reactive protein and receptor for advanced glycation end products in NFE2L2/PGC1α dKO retina. Our main data show C5 and thrombin upregulation together with decreased C3 levels in this dry AMD-like model. In general, the retina strives to mount an orchestrated inflammatory response while attempting to maintain tissue homeostasis and resolve inflammation.
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Kim BJ, Mastellos DC, Li Y, Dunaief JL, Lambris JD. Targeting complement components C3 and C5 for the retina: Key concepts and lingering questions. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100936. [PMID: 33321207 PMCID: PMC8197769 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a major cause of legal blindness, and treatment for the geographic atrophy form of AMD is a significant unmet need. Dysregulation of the complement cascade is thought to be instrumental for AMD pathophysiology. In particular, C3 and C5 are pivotal components of the complement cascade and have become leading therapeutic targets for AMD. In this article, we discuss C3 and C5 in detail, including their roles in AMD, biochemical and structural aspects, locations of expression, and the functions of C3 and C5 fragments. Further, the article critically reviews developing therapeutics aimed at C3 and C5, underscoring the potential effects of broad inhibition of complement at the level of C3 versus more specific inhibition at C5. The relationships of complement biology to the inflammasome and microglia/macrophage activity are highlighted. Concepts of C3 and C5 biology will be emphasized, while we point out questions that need to be settled and directions for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Kim
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | | | - Yafeng Li
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua L Dunaief
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John D Lambris
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
The complement cascade is an evolutionary ancient innate immune defense system, playing a major role in the defense against infections. Its function in maintaining host homeostasis on activated cells has been emphasized by the crucial role of its overactivation in ever growing number of diseases, such as atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), autoimmune diseases as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), C3 glomerulopathies (C3GN), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), graft rejection, Alzheimer disease, and cancer, to name just a few. The last decade of research on complement has extended its implication in many pathological processes, offering new insights to potential therapeutic targets and asserting the necessity of reliable, sensitive, specific, accurate, and reproducible biomarkers to decipher complement role in pathology. We need to evaluate accurately which pathway or role should be targeted pharmacologically, and optimize treatment efficacy versus toxicity. This chapter is an introduction to the role of complement in human diseases and the use of complement-related biomarkers in the clinical practice. It is a part of a book intending to give reliable and standardized methods to evaluate complement according to nowadays needs and knowledge.
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Pathogenic mechanisms contributing to the vulnerability of aging human photoreceptor cells. Eye (Lond) 2021; 35:2917-2929. [PMID: 34079093 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01602-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In human retina, photoreceptor cell death (PCD) is a slow but conspicuous event, which continues with aging. Rods die earlier than cones, the latter continue to alter in a subtle manner until advanced aging. This review summarizes the existing information on age-related changes in photoreceptor cells, especially cones and analyses the possible associated factors. Oxidative and nitrosative stress are involved in photoreceptor alterations, which may stem from light and iron toxicity and other sources. Lipid peroxidation in macular photoreceptor outer segments and mitochondrial aberrations are prominent in aging. It is important to understand how those changes ultimately trigger PCD. The redistribution of calbindin D-28K and long/middle-wavelength-sensitive opsin in the parafoveal and perifoveal cones, anomalies in their somata and axons are strong predictors of their increasing vulnerability with aging. Signs of reduced autophagy, with autophagosomes containing organelle remnants are seen in aging photoreceptor cells. Currently, mechanisms that lead to human PCD are unknown; some observations favour apoptosis as a pathway. Since cones appear to change slowly, there is an opportunity to reverse those changes before they die. Therefore, a full understanding of how cones alter and the molecular pathways they utilize for survival must be the future research goal. Recent approaches to prevent PCD in aging and diseases are highlighted.
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Kerr H, Herbert AP, Makou E, Abramczyk D, Malik TH, Lomax-Browne H, Yang Y, Pappworth IY, Denton H, Richards A, Marchbank KJ, Pickering MC, Barlow PN. Murine Factor H Co-Produced in Yeast With Protein Disulfide Isomerase Ameliorated C3 Dysregulation in Factor H-Deficient Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:681098. [PMID: 34054871 PMCID: PMC8149785 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.681098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant human factor H (hFH) has potential for treating diseases linked to aberrant complement regulation including C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) and dry age-related macular degeneration. Murine FH (mFH), produced in the same host, is useful for pre-clinical investigations in mouse models of disease. An abundance of FH in plasma suggests high doses, and hence microbial production, will be needed. Previously, Pichia pastoris produced useful but modest quantities of hFH. Herein, a similar strategy yielded miniscule quantities of mFH. Since FH has 40 disulfide bonds, we created a P. pastoris strain containing a methanol-inducible codon-modified gene for protein-disulfide isomerase (PDI) and transformed this with codon-modified DNA encoding mFH under the same promoter. What had been barely detectable yields of mFH became multiple 10s of mg/L. Our PDI-overexpressing strain also boosted hFH overproduction, by about tenfold. These enhancements exceeded PDI-related production gains reported for other proteins, all of which contain fewer disulfide-stabilized domains. We optimized fermentation conditions, purified recombinant mFH, enzymatically trimmed down its (non-human) N-glycans, characterised its functions in vitro and administered it to mice. In FH-knockout mice, our de-glycosylated recombinant mFH had a shorter half-life and induced more anti-mFH antibodies than mouse serum-derived, natively glycosylated, mFH. Even sequential daily injections of recombinant mFH failed to restore wild-type levels of FH and C3 in mouse plasma beyond 24 hours after the first injection. Nevertheless, mFH functionality appeared to persist in the glomerular basement membrane because C3-fragment deposition here, a hallmark of C3G, remained significantly reduced throughout and beyond the ten-day dosing regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Kerr
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew P. Herbert
- School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Elisavet Makou
- School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Dariusz Abramczyk
- School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Talat H. Malik
- Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Lomax-Browne
- Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Yang
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Center, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Y. Pappworth
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Center, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Harriet Denton
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Center, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Richards
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J. Marchbank
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Center, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew C. Pickering
- Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul N. Barlow
- School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Van Hove I, Van Bergen T, Etienne I, Holgado A, Afonina IS, Beyaert R, Feyen JH, Hu TT. IL-33trap-mediated IL-33 neutralization does not exacerbate choroidal neovascularization, but fails to protect against retinal degeneration in a dry age-related macular degeneration model. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108608. [PMID: 33930400 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
The progressive and sight-threatening disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a growing public health concern due to ageing demographics, with the highest unmet medical need for the advanced stage of dry AMD, geographic atrophy. The pathogenesis underlying AMD is driven by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. There is ample evidence that inflammation is strongly involved in AMD development. Interleukin-33 (IL-33) has been proposed to be critically involved in retinal degeneration, but a protective role in eye pathophysiology was also demonstrated. The current study investigated the therapeutic potential of IL-33trap, a novel IL-33-neutralizing biologic, in dry AMD/geographic atrophy and, based on controversial data regarding the protective versus detrimental functions of IL-33 in neovascularization, evaluated the risk of progression to wet AMD by IL-33 neutralization. Repeated intravitreal (IVT) injections of IL-33trap in the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model did not exacerbate neovascularization or leakage, while it significantly inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration in the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. On the contrary, IVT treatment with IL-33trap significantly induced retinal inflammation and could not prevent retinopathy induction in the mouse sodium iodate (NaIO3) model. Overall, these data suggest a complex and dichotomous role of IL-33 in eye pathology and indicate that IL-33 neutralization is not able to prevent onset and progression of dry AMD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Van Hove
- Oxurion NV, Gaston Geenslaan 1, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium.
| | | | | | - Aurora Holgado
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Inna S Afonina
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean Hm Feyen
- Oxurion NV, Gaston Geenslaan 1, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium
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Garred P, Tenner AJ, Mollnes TE. Therapeutic Targeting of the Complement System: From Rare Diseases to Pandemics. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:792-827. [PMID: 33687995 PMCID: PMC7956994 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The complement system was discovered at the end of the 19th century as a heat-labile plasma component that "complemented" the antibodies in killing microbes, hence the name "complement." Complement is also part of the innate immune system, protecting the host by recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns. However, complement is multifunctional far beyond infectious defense. It contributes to organ development, such as sculpting neuron synapses, promoting tissue regeneration and repair, and rapidly engaging and synergizing with a number of processes, including hemostasis leading to thromboinflammation. Complement is a double-edged sword. Although it usually protects the host, it may cause tissue damage when dysregulated or overactivated, such as in the systemic inflammatory reaction seen in trauma and sepsis and severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Damage-associated molecular patterns generated during ischemia-reperfusion injuries (myocardial infarction, stroke, and transplant dysfunction) and in chronic neurologic and rheumatic disease activate complement, thereby increasing damaging inflammation. Despite the long list of diseases with potential for ameliorating complement modulation, only a few rare diseases are approved for clinical treatment targeting complement. Those currently being efficiently treated include paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Rare diseases, unfortunately, preclude robust clinical trials. The increasing evidence for complement as a pathogenetic driver in many more common diseases suggests an opportunity for future complement therapy, which, however, requires robust clinical trials; one ongoing example is COVID-19 disease. The current review aims to discuss complement in disease pathogenesis and discuss future pharmacological strategies to treat these diseases with complement-targeted therapies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The complement system is the host's defense friend by protecting it from invading pathogens, promoting tissue repair, and maintaining homeostasis. Complement is a double-edged sword, since when dysregulated or overactivated it becomes the host's enemy, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and, in worst case, death. A number of acute and chronic diseases are candidates for pharmacological treatment to avoid complement-dependent damage, ranging from the well established treatment for rare diseases to possible future treatment of large patient groups like the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Garred
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark (P.G.); Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Neurobiology and Behavior, and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California (A.J.T.); and Research Laboratory, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway, Faculty of Health Sciences, K.G. Jebsen TREC, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway (T.E.M.); Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway (T.E.M.); and Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway (T.E.M.)
| | - Andrea J Tenner
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark (P.G.); Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Neurobiology and Behavior, and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California (A.J.T.); and Research Laboratory, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway, Faculty of Health Sciences, K.G. Jebsen TREC, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway (T.E.M.); Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway (T.E.M.); and Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway (T.E.M.)
| | - Tom E Mollnes
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark (P.G.); Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Neurobiology and Behavior, and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California (A.J.T.); and Research Laboratory, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway, Faculty of Health Sciences, K.G. Jebsen TREC, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway (T.E.M.); Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway (T.E.M.); and Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway (T.E.M.)
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Infectious Risks Associated with Biologics Targeting Janus Kinase-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription Signaling and Complement Pathway for Inflammatory Diseases. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2021; 34:271-310. [PMID: 32444011 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2020.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The recognition of the role of complement and Janus kinase (JAK)-dependent cytokines in the pathogenesis of inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders has revolutionized the treatment of a myriad of rheumatological and inflammatory diseases. C5 inhibitors and Janus kinase inhibitors have emerged as attractive therapeutic options. Because of the blockage of immune pathways, these targeted therapies carry an increased risk of infection. This article reviews the mechanism of action and the approved and off-label indications of the agents with most clinical experience within this drug classes. It discusses the associated risks of infection, proposing screening, prevention, and risk mitigation strategies.
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Invasive Bacterial Infections in Subjects with Genetic and Acquired Susceptibility and Impacts on Recommendations for Vaccination: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030467. [PMID: 33668334 PMCID: PMC7996259 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The WHO recently endorsed an ambitious plan, “Defeating Meningitis by 2030”, that aims to control/eradicate invasive bacterial infection epidemics by 2030. Vaccination is one of the pillars of this road map, with the goal to reduce the number of cases and deaths due to Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus agalactiae. The risk of developing invasive bacterial infections (IBI) due to these bacterial species includes genetic and acquired factors that favor repeated and/or severe invasive infections. We searched the PubMed database to identify host risk factors that increase the susceptibility to these bacterial species. Here, we describe a number of inherited and acquired risk factors associated with increased susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections. The burden of these factors is expected to increase due to the anticipated decrease in cases in the general population upon the implementation of vaccination strategies. Therefore, detection and exploration of these patients are important as vaccination may differ among subjects with these risk factors and specific strategies for vaccination are required. The aim of this narrative review is to provide information about these factors as well as their impact on vaccination against the four bacterial species. Awareness of risk factors for IBI may facilitate early recognition and treatment of the disease. Preventive measures including vaccination, when available, in individuals with increased risk for IBI may prevent and reduce the number of cases.
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Complement-mediated release of fibroblast growth factor 2 from human RPE cells. Exp Eye Res 2021; 204:108471. [PMID: 33516764 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Complement activation is associated with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and membrane attack complex (MAC) are present in eyes of patients with CNV. Herein, we investigated the effect of complement activation on FGF2 release in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. METHODS Cultured human RPE cells were primed with an anti-RPE antibody and then treated with C1q-depleted human serum in the presence or absence of Tec kinases inhibitor (LFM-A13). 38 cytokines/chemokines levels were measured by Luminex technology. Secretion of FGF2 and interleukin (IL)-6 was assessed by ELISA. Tec protein was measured by Western blot. mRNA expression of FGF2, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL-1), and family members of Tec kinases was evaluated by qPCR. Cell viability and MAC deposition were determined by WST-1 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. RESULTS Complement activation caused increased FGF2 and IL-6 release. FGF2 was released when C6-depleted human serum was reconstituted with C6. Anti-C5 antibody significantly attenuated complement-mediated FGF2 release, but not IL-6. FGF2 mRNA levels were not affected, while CXCL-1 mRNA levels were increased by complement activation. FGF2-containing extracellular vesicles were detected in response to complement challenge. Tec mRNA and protein were expressed in RPE cells. In the presence of LFM-A13, secretion of FGF2, but not IL-6, and MAC deposition were significantly decreased and cell viability was significantly increased in complement-treated cells when compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS Complement plays an important role to release FGF2 from RPE cells. Tec kinase is involved in MAC formation and complement-mediated FGF2 release. This information suggests a role for complement activation to mediate neovascularization in conditions such as AMD, and may elucidate potential therapeutic targets.
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Associations between the Complement System and Choroidal Neovascularization in Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249752. [PMID: 33371261 PMCID: PMC7765894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness affecting the elderly in the Western world. The most severe form of AMD, wet AMD (wAMD), is characterized by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and acute vision loss. The current treatment for these patients comprises monthly intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies, but this treatment is expensive, uncomfortable for the patient, and only effective in some individuals. AMD is a complex disease that has strong associations with the complement system. All three initiating complement pathways may be relevant in CNV formation, but most evidence indicates a major role for the alternative pathway (AP) and for the terminal complement complex, as well as certain complement peptides generated upon complement activation. Since the complement system is associated with AMD and CNV, a complement inhibitor may be a therapeutic option for patients with wAMD. The aim of this review is to (i) reflect on the possible complement targets in the context of wAMD pathology, (ii) investigate the results of prior clinical trials with complement inhibitors for wAMD patients, and (iii) outline important considerations when developing a future strategy for the treatment of wAMD.
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63
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The Role of Complement in Angiogenesis. Antibodies (Basel) 2020; 9:antib9040067. [PMID: 33271774 PMCID: PMC7709120 DOI: 10.3390/antib9040067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The link of the complement system to angiogenesis has remained circumstantial and speculative for several years. Perhaps the most clinically relevant example of possible involvement of complement in pathological neovascularization is age-related macular degeneration. Recent studies, however, provide more direct and experimental evidence that indeed the complement system regulates physiological and pathological angiogenesis in models of wound healing, retinal regeneration, age-related macular degeneration, and cancer. Interestingly, complement-dependent mechanisms involved in angiogenesis are very much context dependent, including anti- and proangiogenic functions. Here, we discuss these new developments that place complement among other important regulators of homeostatic and pathological angiogenesis, and we provide the perspective on how these newly discovered complement functions can be targeted for therapy.
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64
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Cerniauskas E, Kurzawa‐Akanbi M, Xie L, Hallam D, Moya‐Molina M, White K, Steel D, Doherty M, Whitfield P, Al‐Aama J, Armstrong L, Kavanagh D, Lambris JD, Korolchuk VI, Harris C, Lako M. Complement modulation reverses pathology in Y402H-retinal pigment epithelium cell model of age-related macular degeneration by restoring lysosomal function. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:1585-1603. [PMID: 32815311 PMCID: PMC7695639 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease, which is characterized by loss of central vision, affecting one in three people by the age of 75. The Y402H polymorphism in the complement factor H (CFH) gene significantly increases the risk of AMD. We show that Y402H-AMD-patient-specific retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells are characterized by a significant reduction in the number of melanosomes, an increased number of swollen lysosome-like-vesicles with fragile membranes, Cathepsin D leakage into drusen-like deposits and reduced lysosomal function. The turnover of C3 is increased significantly in high-risk RPE cells, resulting in higher internalization and deposition of the terminal complement complex C5b-9 at the lysosomes. Inhibition of C3 processing via the compstatin analogue Cp40 reverses the disease phenotypes by relieving the lysosomes of their overburden and restoring their function. These findings suggest that modulation of the complement system represents a useful therapeutic approach for AMD patients associated with complement dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edvinas Cerniauskas
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Marzena Kurzawa‐Akanbi
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Long Xie
- Clinical & Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Dean Hallam
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Marina Moya‐Molina
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Kathryn White
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - David Steel
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Mary Doherty
- University of the Highlands and IslandsInvernessUK
| | | | - Jumana Al‐Aama
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Princess Al‐Jawhara Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, Faculty of MedicineKing Abdulaziz UniversityJeddahSaudi Arabia
| | - Lyle Armstrong
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - David Kavanagh
- Clinical & Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria InfirmaryNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - John D. Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineUniversity of Pennsylvania School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Viktor I. Korolchuk
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Claire Harris
- Clinical & Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria InfirmaryNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
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65
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Ohtani K. Complement-Related Proteins and Their Measurements: The Current Status of Clinical Investigation. Nephron Clin Pract 2020; 144 Suppl 1:7-12. [PMID: 33232963 DOI: 10.1159/000512494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Complement has been considered to be a factor that protects the host against invading microorganisms during infection. However, in recent years, complement-related protein deficiency has been found to be involved in the onset of various diseases, such as autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. In Japan, C3, C4, and CH50 tests were generally performed only when a complement system examination was necessary and there were not enough examinations for other complement factors. Since the complement system has a very complicated activation pathway, at present, it is not well known which molecule must be measured to understand the pathological condition or pathogenesis in complement-related diseases. Furthermore, since the frequency of complement factor gene alleles also differs depending on race, data from foreign countries cannot be directly applied to Japanese populations. Under these circumstances, the Japanese Association for Complement Research (JACR) has prepared approximately 20 items for complement-related examinations, including the 5 categories of functional analysis, complement factors, complement regulators, activation products, and autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuki Ohtani
- Department of Food Science and Human Wellness, Rakuno Gakuen University, Ebetsu, Japan,
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66
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Blasiak J, Pawlowska E, Sobczuk A, Szczepanska J, Kaarniranta K. The Aging Stress Response and Its Implication for AMD Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228840. [PMID: 33266495 PMCID: PMC7700335 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging induces several stress response pathways to counterbalance detrimental changes associated with this process. These pathways include nutrient signaling, proteostasis, mitochondrial quality control and DNA damage response. At the cellular level, these pathways are controlled by evolutionarily conserved signaling molecules, such as 5’AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and sirtuins, including SIRT1. Peroxisome proliferation-activated receptor coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α), encoded by the PPARGC1A gene, playing an important role in antioxidant defense and mitochondrial biogenesis, may interact with these molecules influencing lifespan and general fitness. Perturbation in the aging stress response may lead to aging-related disorders, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the main reason for vision loss in the elderly. This is supported by studies showing an important role of disturbances in mitochondrial metabolism, DDR and autophagy in AMD pathogenesis. In addition, disturbed expression of PGC-1α was shown to associate with AMD. Therefore, the aging stress response may be critical for AMD pathogenesis, and further studies are needed to precisely determine mechanisms underlying its role in AMD. These studies can include research on retinal cells produced from pluripotent stem cells obtained from AMD donors with the mutations, either native or engineered, in the critical genes for the aging stress response, including AMPK, IGF1, MTOR, SIRT1 and PPARGC1A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz Blasiak
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-426354334
| | - Elzbieta Pawlowska
- Department of Orthodontics, Medical University of Lodz, 92-216 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Anna Sobczuk
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Joanna Szczepanska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-216 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
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67
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Strayer EC, Lu S, Ribeiro J, Andersen JF. Salivary complement inhibitors from mosquitoes: Structure and mechanism of action. J Biol Chem 2020; 296:100083. [PMID: 33199367 PMCID: PMC7948415 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.015230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the alternative pathway (AP) of complement by saliva from Anopheles mosquitoes facilitates feeding by blocking production of the anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a, which activate mast cells leading to plasma extravasation, pain, and itching. We have previously shown that albicin, a member of the SG7 protein family from An. Albimanus, blocks the AP by binding to and inhibiting the function of the C3 convertase, C3bBb. Here we show that SG7.AF, the albicin homolog from An. freeborni, has a similar potency to albicin but is more active in the presence of properdin, a plasma protein that acts to stabilize C3bBb. Conversely, albicin is highly active in the absence or presence of properdin. Albicin and SG7.AF stabilize the C3bBb complex in a form that accumulates on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) surfaces coated with properdin, but SG7.AF binds with lower affinity than albicin. Albicin induces oligomerization of the complex in solution, suggesting that it is oligomerization that leads to stabilization on SPR surfaces. Anophensin, the albicin ortholog from An. stephensi, is only weakly active as an inhibitor of the AP, suggesting that the SG7 family may play a different functional role in this species and other species of the subgenus Cellia, containing the major malaria vectors in Africa and Asia. Crystal structures of albicin and SG7.AF reveal a novel four-helix bundle arrangement that is stabilized by an N-terminal hydrogen bonding network. These structures provide insight into the SG7 family and related mosquito salivary proteins including the platelet-inhibitory 30 kDa family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan C Strayer
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Stephen Lu
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Jose Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - John F Andersen
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH-NIAID, Rockville, Maryland, USA.
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68
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Cell-Type-Specific Complement Profiling in the ABCA4 -/- Mouse Model of Stargardt Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228468. [PMID: 33187113 PMCID: PMC7697683 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stargardt macular degeneration is an inherited retinal disease caused by mutations in the ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 4 (ABCA4) gene. Here, we characterized the complement expression profile in ABCA4−/− retinae and aligned these findings with morphological markers of retinal degeneration. We found an enhanced retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) autofluorescence, cell loss in the inner retina of ABCA4−/− mice and demonstrated age-related differences in complement expression in various retinal cell types irrespective of the genotype. However, 24-week-old ABCA4−/− mice expressed more c3 in the RPE and fewer cfi transcripts in the microglia compared to controls. At the protein level, the decrease of complement inhibitors (complement factor I, CFI) in retinae, as well as an increased C3b/C3 ratio in the RPE/choroid and retinae of ABCA4−/−, mice was confirmed. We showed a corresponding increase of the C3d/C3 ratio in the serum of ABCA4−/− mice, while no changes were observed for CFI. Our findings suggest an overactive complement cascade in the ABCA4−/− retinae that possibly contributes to pathological alterations, including microglial activation and neurodegeneration. Overall, this underpins the importance of well-balanced complement homeostasis to maintain retinal integrity.
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69
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Liisborg C, Nielsen MK, Hasselbalch HC, Sørensen TL. Patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms and high levels of systemic inflammation develop age-related macular degeneration. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 26:100526. [PMID: 33089124 PMCID: PMC7565257 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological data show that myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are associated with increased risk of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, knowledge about the retinal findings in these patients is lacking. This study was conducted to examine retinal ageing and the prevalence of a hallmark of AMD; drusen, in patients with MPNs. Further, we examine the role of chronic systemic inflammation, considered central in both AMD and MPNs. METHODS In this single-centre cross-sectional study, we consecutively enrolled 200 patients with MPNs. The study was divided into three substudies. Firstly, we obtained colour fundus photographs from all patients to evaluate and compare the prevalence of drusen with the published estimates from three large population-based studies. Secondly, to evaluate age-related changes in the various retinal layers, optical coherence tomography images were obtained from 150 of the patients and compared to a healthy control group, from a previous study. Thirdly, venous blood was sampled from 63 patients to determine the JAK2V617F allele burden and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a marker of systemic inflammation, in MPN patients with and without drusen. FINDINGS Patients with MPNs had an increased risk of having large drusen compared to the three population-based studies OR 5·7 (95%CI, 4·1-8·0), OR 6·0 (95%CI, 4·2-8·4) and OR 7·0 (95%CI, 5·0-9·7). Also, we found that the retinal site of drusen accumulation - the Bruch's-membrane-retinal-pigment-epithelium-complex was thicker compared to healthy controls, 0·43μm (95%CI 0·17-0·71, p = 0·0014), but there was no sign of accelerated retinal ageing in terms of thinning of the neuroretina. Further, we found that MPN patients with drusen had a higher level of systemic inflammation than MPN patients with no drusen (p = 0·0383). INTERPRETATION Patients with MPNs suffer from accelerated accumulation of subretinal drusen and therefore AMD from an earlier age than healthy individuals. We find that the retinal changes are located only between the neuroretina and the choroidal bloodstream. Further, we find that the drusen accumulation is associated with a higher JAK2V617F allele burden and a higher NLR, suggesting that low-grade chronic inflammation is a part of the pathogenesis of drusen formation and AMD. FUNDING Fight for Sight, Denmark and Region Zealand's research promotion fund.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Liisborg
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 23, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Corresponding author at: Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 23, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Marie Krogh Nielsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 23, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Hans Carl Hasselbalch
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Haematology, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 15-17, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Torben Lykke Sørensen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 23, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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70
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Somasundaran S, Constable IJ, Mellough CB, Carvalho LS. Retinal pigment epithelium and age-related macular degeneration: A review of major disease mechanisms. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 48:1043-1056. [PMID: 32710488 PMCID: PMC7754492 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the elderly population. Degeneration/dysregulation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a supportive monolayer of cells underlying the photoreceptors, is commonly seen in patients with AMD. While treatment exists for the neovascular/wet form of AMD, there is currently no cure for the non‐exudative/dry form of AMD, making it imperative to understand the pathogenesis of this disease. Although our understanding of the aetiology of AMD has increased over the years, the underlying disease mechanism has not yet been identified, mainly due to the multifactorial nature of this disease. Herein, we review some of the commonly proposed degeneration pathways of RPE cells and their role in the pathogenesis of AMD; including activation of the complement cascade, oxidative stress‐induced cell death mechanisms, dysfunctional mitochondria and the role of crystallins in AMD disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Somasundaran
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ian J Constable
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Carla B Mellough
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science/Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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71
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Mackey D. "Eye genetics at the fork in the road" 2017 Franceschetti Lecture, Leeds UK. Ophthalmic Genet 2020; 41:201-207. [PMID: 32363976 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2020.1755988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases - a disparate group of eye disorders with over 200 known genetic causes - are now the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults in developed countries. Until recently there was no cure for genetic eye diseases. After over a century of defining inherited retinal diseases with their phenotypes, and then several decades of discovering associated genes and their mutations, we now have gene therapy, stem cell therapy, predictive DNA testing and a revolution in adaptive computer technology. With the explosion of expensive treatment options, we need to consider whether finite resources should go towards treatment, prevention or rehabilitation or an amalgamation of all three. In addition, although evidence-based medicine is the goal, how do we direct our desperate patients towards genuine clinical trials and away from quackery? How do we provide scientifically valid treatments for eye diseases too rare to run proper trials and then capture the results of "off label treatments"?
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mackey
- The University of Western Australia , Perth, Australia.,Lions Eye Institute , Nedlands, Australia
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72
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Hughes S, Gumas J, Lee R, Rumano M, Berger N, Gautam AK, Sfyroera G, Chan AL, Gnanaguru G, Connor KM, Kim BJ, Dunaief JL, Ricklin D, Hajishengallis G, Yancopoulou D, Reis ES, Mastellos DC, Lambris JD. Prolonged intraocular residence and retinal tissue distribution of a fourth-generation compstatin-based C3 inhibitor in non-human primates. Clin Immunol 2020; 214:108391. [PMID: 32229292 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2020.108391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss among the elderly population. Genetic studies in susceptible individuals have linked this ocular disease to deregulated complement activity that culminates in increased C3 turnover, retinal inflammation and photoreceptor loss. Therapeutic targeting of C3 has therefore emerged as a promising strategy for broadly intercepting the detrimental proinflammatory consequences of complement activation in the retinal tissue. In this regard, a PEGylated second-generation derivative of the compstatin family of C3-targeted inhibitors is currently in late-stage clinical development as a treatment option for geographic atrophy, an advanced form of AMD which lacks approved therapy. While efficacy has been strongly suggested in phase 2 clinical trials, crucial aspects still remain to be defined with regard to the ocular bioavailability, tissue distribution and residence, and dosing frequency of such inhibitors in AMD patients. Here we report the intraocular distribution and pharmacokinetic profile of the fourth-generation compstatin analog, Cp40-KKK in cynomolgus monkeys following a single intravitreal injection. Using a sensitive surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based competition assay and ELISA, we have quantified both the amount of inhibitor and the concentration of C3 retained in the vitreous of Cp40-KKK-injected animals. Cp40-KKK displays prolonged intraocular residence, being detected at C3-saturating levels for over 3 months after a single intravitreal injection. Moreover, we have probed the distribution of Cp40-KKK within the ocular tissue by means of immunohistochemistry and highly specific anti-Cp40-KKK antibodies. Both C3 and Cp40-KKK were detected in the retinal tissue of inhibitor-injected animals, with prominent co-localization in the choroid one-month post intravitreal injection. These results attest to the high retinal tissue penetrance and target-driven distribution of Cp40-KKK. Given its subnanomolar binding affinity and prolonged ocular residence, Cp40-KKK constitutes a promising drug candidate for ocular pathologies underpinned by deregulated C3 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hughes
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Justin Gumas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Merita Rumano
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nadja Berger
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Avneesh Kumar Gautam
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Georgia Sfyroera
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Gopalan Gnanaguru
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kip M Connor
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Benjamin J Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua L Dunaief
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel Ricklin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - George Hajishengallis
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, Penn Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Edimara S Reis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - John D Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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73
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Makou E, Bailey RG, Johnston H, Parkin JD, Hulme AN, Hähner G, Barlow PN. Combining SPR with atomic-force microscopy enables single-molecule insights into activation and suppression of the complement cascade. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:20148-20163. [PMID: 31719147 PMCID: PMC6937562 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.010913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation and suppression of the complement system compete on every serum-exposed surface, host or foreign. Potentially harmful outcomes of this competition depend on surface molecules through mechanisms that remain incompletely understood. Combining surface plasmon resonance (SPR) with atomic force microscopy (AFM), here we studied two complement system proteins at the single-molecule level: C3b, the proteolytically activated form of C3, and factor H (FH), the surface-sensing C3b-binding complement regulator. We used SPR to monitor complement initiation occurring through a positive-feedback loop wherein surface-deposited C3b participates in convertases that cleave C3, thereby depositing more C3b. Over multiple cycles of flowing factor B, factor D, and C3 over the SPR chip, we amplified C3b from ∼20 to ∼220 molecules·μm−2. AFM revealed C3b clusters of up to 20 molecules and solitary C3b molecules deposited up to 200 nm away from the clusters. A force of 0.17 ± 0.02 nanonewtons was needed to pull a single FH molecule, anchored to the AFM probe, from its complex with surface-attached C3b. The extent to which FH molecules stretched before detachment varied widely among complexes. Performing force-distance measurements with FH(D1119G), a variant lacking one of the C3b-binding sites and causing atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, we found that it detached more uniformly and easily. In further SPR experiments, KD values between FH and C3b on a custom-made chip surface were 5-fold tighter than on commercial chips and similar to those on erythrocytes. These results suggest that the chemistry at the surface on which FH acts drives conformational adjustments that are functionally critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisavet Makou
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Joseph Black Chemistry Building, Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 3FJ, United Kingdom
| | - Richard G Bailey
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of St. Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland KY16 9ST, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Johnston
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Joseph Black Chemistry Building, Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 3FJ, United Kingdom
| | - John D Parkin
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of St. Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland KY16 9ST, United Kingdom
| | - Alison N Hulme
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Joseph Black Chemistry Building, Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 3FJ, United Kingdom
| | - Georg Hähner
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of St. Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland KY16 9ST, United Kingdom
| | - Paul N Barlow
- EaStChem School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Joseph Black Chemistry Building, Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 3FJ, United Kingdom .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 3JY, United Kingdom
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74
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Ricklin D, Mastellos DC, Lambris JD. Therapeutic targeting of the complement system. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019:10.1038/s41573-019-0055-y. [PMID: 31819218 PMCID: PMC7346643 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0055-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The human complement system constitutes a Janus-faced part of our immune machinery, which confers rapid protection against microbial intruders but can quickly turn against the host and contribute to inflammatory, immune-, age- and foreign body-related clinical complications1 The defence–offence profile often tilts unfavourably during ageing, traumatic insults or genetic dysregulation of the cascade. The list of disorders with known complement contribution is growing constantly, and with it the incentive to control complement activation therapeutically1 –3 . Since the introduction of complement-specific drugs in 2007, and the generally positive experience in the clinic, the interest in developing new therapeutic inhibitors has been growing constantly and has led to a cornucopious pipeline2 –3 . While the clinically available arsenal is currently limited to a few targets and mostly orphan and rare indications, it is expected that the recently sparked confidence and commercial interest will soon lead to a significant broadening of treatment options and, consequently, clinical conditions in which complement-targeted drugs will be applied2 . New frontiers, such as applications in the therapy of cancer or neurological diseases are already on the horizon4 ,5 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ricklin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - John D Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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75
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Patriquin CJ, Kuo KHM. Eculizumab and Beyond: The Past, Present, and Future of Complement Therapeutics. Transfus Med Rev 2019; 33:256-265. [PMID: 31703946 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the complement system underlies the pathophysiology of many diseases. Renewed interest in complement occurred with the recognition that its therapeutic inhibition was possible. Terminal complement blockade with the anti-C5 monoclonal antibody eculizumab significantly changed management and clinical outcomes of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and served as a proof of concept for other complement-mediated diseases. Eculizumab is also approved for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and myasthenia gravis. Multiple new disease indications have been identified, and novel complement inhibitors are in various stages of development, with several currently in human trials. Beyond C5, these new drugs block proximal complement, pathway-specific targets, convertase activity, and anaphylatoxin function. Though monoclonal antibodies are still common, peptides, RNAi, and small molecule inhibitors provide the opportunity for different administration routes and schedules. Several challenges still exist or will soon present themselves, including mitigation of infection risk, effective monitoring strategies, and how to choose between therapeutics when more than one is available. In this review, we will describe the lessons learned from the "eculizumab era," present many of the novel therapeutics currently or soon to be in trials, and highlight some of the challenges that will require attention as the field progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Patriquin
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Divison of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Kevin H M Kuo
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Divison of Medical Oncology & Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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76
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Li N, Zhao L, Wei Y, Ea VL, Nian H, Wei R. Recent advances of exosomes in immune-mediated eye diseases. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:278. [PMID: 31470892 PMCID: PMC6716826 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1372-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes, nanosized extracellular vesicles of 30-150 nm, are shed by almost all cell types. Bearing proteins, lipids, RNAs, and DNAs, exosomes have emerged as vital biological mediators in cell-to-cell communication, affecting a plethora of physiological and pathological processes. Particularly, mounting evidence indicates that immunologically active exosomes can regulate both innate and adaptive immune responses. Herein, we review recent advances in the research of exosomes in several immune-mediated eye diseases, including Sjögren's syndrome (SS) dry eye, corneal allograft rejection, autoimmune uveitis, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Additionally, we discuss the potential of exosomes as novel biomarkers and drug delivery vesicles for the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China
| | - Yankai Wei
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China
| | - Vicki L Ea
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Nian
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ruihua Wei
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No.251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300384, People's Republic of China.
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Schröder-Braunstein J, Kirschfink M. Complement deficiencies and dysregulation: Pathophysiological consequences, modern analysis, and clinical management. Mol Immunol 2019; 114:299-311. [PMID: 31421540 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Complement defects are associated with an enhanced risk of a broad spectrum of infectious as well as systemic or local inflammatory and thrombotic disorders. Inherited complement deficiencies have been described for virtually all complement components but can be mimicked by autoantibodies, interfering with the activity of specific complement components, convertases or regulators. While being rare, diseases related to complement deficiencies are often severe with a frequent but not exclusive manifestation during childhood. Whereas defects of early components of the classical pathway significantly increase the risk of autoimmune disorders, lack of components of the terminal pathway as well as of properdin are associated with an enhanced susceptibility to meningococcal infections. The impaired synthesis or function of C1 inhibitor results in the development of hereditary angioedema (HAE). Furthermore, complement dysregulation causes renal disorders such as atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) or C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) but also age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) results from the combined deficiency of the regulatory complement proteins CD55 and CD59, which is caused by somatic mutation of a common membrane anchor, isolated CD55 or CD59 deficiency is associated with the CHAPLE syndrome and polyneuropathy, respectively. Here, we provide an overview on clinical disorders related to complement deficiencies or dysregulation and describe diagnostic strategies required for their comprehensive molecular characterization - a prerequisite for informed decisions on the therapeutic management of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jutta Schröder-Braunstein
- University of Heidelberg, Institute of Immunology, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Kirschfink
- University of Heidelberg, Institute of Immunology, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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