101
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Pesce NA, Canovai A, Plastino F, Lardner E, Kvanta A, Cammalleri M, André H, Dal Monte M. An imbalance in autophagy contributes to retinal damage in a rat model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10480-10493. [PMID: 34623024 PMCID: PMC8581343 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), the abnormal retinal neovascularization is often accompanied by retinal neuronal dysfunction. Here, a rat model of oxygen‐induced retinopathy (OIR), which mimics the ROP disease, was used to investigate changes in the expression of key mediators of autophagy and markers of cell death in the rat retina. In addition, rats were treated from birth to postnatal day 14 and 18 with 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA), an inhibitor of autophagy. Immunoblot and immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that autophagic mechanisms are dysregulated in the retina of OIR rats and indicated a possible correlation between autophagy and necroptosis, but not apoptosis. We found that 3‐MA acts predominantly by reducing autophagic and necroptotic markers in the OIR retinas, having no effects on apoptotic markers. However, 3‐MA does not ameliorate retinal function, which results compromised in this model. Taken together, these results revealed the crucial role of autophagy in retinal cells of OIR rats. Thus, inhibiting autophagy may be viewed as a putative strategy to counteract ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Anna Pesce
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | | | - Flavia Plastino
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Emma Lardner
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | | | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
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102
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Huang X, Liao M, Li S, Liu L. The effect of treatment on retinal microvasculature in children with unilateral amblyopia. J AAPOS 2021; 25:287.e1-287.e7. [PMID: 34582954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess whether the abnormal retinal microvasculature in unilateral amblyopia changes following amblyopia treatment. METHODS A total of 70 patients with unilateral amblyopia (4-12 years of age) were initially recruited. Of these, 33 completed follow-up assessments after 6 months of amblyopia treatment. The retinal thickness and microvascular metrics were measured at baseline and after treatment. The interocular differences and longitudinal changes after treatment were analyzed. Partial correlation analysis was performed to explore the associations between best-corrected visual acuity improvements and changes in retinal metrics after treatment. RESULTS The central retinal thickness, thickness of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer, and vessel density index were greater in amblyopic eyes (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, resp.), whereas the area and circularity of the foveal avascular zone were smaller in amblyopic eyes (P = 0.014, P < 0.001, resp.). Better (lower logMAR) visual acuity was associated with greater circularity of the foveal avascular zone in amblyopic eyes (r = -0.326; P = 0.007). The circularity significantly increased after amblyopia treatment in both eyes (P < 0.001, P = 0.027), and the changes in circularity in amblyopic eyes were associated with visual acuity improvements (r = -0.476; P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Patients with unilateral amblyopia showed interocular differences in retinal microstructure. Foveal avascular zone shape was more irregular in amblyopic eyes and associated with the severity of amblyopia, which tended to improve and become more regular with visual acuity improvements after amblyopia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Huang
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meng Liao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shijin Li
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Longqian Liu
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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103
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Akwii RG, Mikelis CM. Targeting the Angiopoietin/Tie Pathway: Prospects for Treatment of Retinal and Respiratory Disorders. Drugs 2021; 81:1731-1749. [PMID: 34586603 PMCID: PMC8479497 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01605-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic approaches have significantly advanced the treatment of vascular-related pathologies. The ephemeral outcome and known side effects of the current vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-based anti-angiogenic treatments have intensified research on other growth factors. The angiopoietin/Tie (Ang/Tie) family has an established role in vascular physiology and regulates angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and inflammatory responses. The Ang/Tie family consists of angiopoietins 1-4, their receptors, tie1 and 2 and the vascular endothelial-protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP). Modulation of Tie2 activation has provided a promising outcome in preclinical models and has led to clinical trials of Ang/Tie-targeting drug candidates for retinal disorders. Although less is known about the role of Ang/Tie in pulmonary disorders, several studies have revealed great potential of the Ang/Tie family members as drug targets for pulmonary vascular disorders as well. In this review, we summarize the functions of the Ang/Tie pathway in retinal and pulmonary vascular physiology and relevant disorders and highlight promising drug candidates targeting this pathway currently being or expected to be under clinical evaluation for retinal and pulmonary vascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Racheal Grace Akwii
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1406 S. Coulter St., Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Constantinos M Mikelis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1406 S. Coulter St., Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.
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104
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Uemura A, Fruttiger M, D'Amore PA, De Falco S, Joussen AM, Sennlaub F, Brunck LR, Johnson KT, Lambrou GN, Rittenhouse KD, Langmann T. VEGFR1 signaling in retinal angiogenesis and microinflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 84:100954. [PMID: 33640465 PMCID: PMC8385046 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Five vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) ligands (VEGF-A, -B, -C, -D, and placental growth factor [PlGF]) constitute the VEGF family. VEGF-A binds VEGF receptors 1 and 2 (VEGFR1/2), whereas VEGF-B and PlGF only bind VEGFR1. Although much research has been conducted on VEGFR2 to elucidate its key role in retinal diseases, recent efforts have shown the importance and involvement of VEGFR1 and its family of ligands in angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and microinflammatory cascades within the retina. Expression of VEGFR1 depends on the microenvironment, is differentially regulated under hypoxic and inflammatory conditions, and it has been detected in retinal and choroidal endothelial cells, pericytes, retinal and choroidal mononuclear phagocytes (including microglia), Müller cells, photoreceptor cells, and the retinal pigment epithelium. Whilst the VEGF-A decoy function of VEGFR1 is well established, consequences of its direct signaling are less clear. VEGFR1 activation can affect vascular permeability and induce macrophage and microglia production of proinflammatory and proangiogenic mediators. However the ability of the VEGFR1 ligands (VEGF-A, PlGF, and VEGF-B) to compete against each other for receptor binding and to heterodimerize complicates our understanding of the relative contribution of VEGFR1 signaling alone toward the pathologic processes seen in diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, retinopathy of prematurity, and age-related macular degeneration. Clinically, anti-VEGF drugs have proven transformational in these pathologies and their impact on modulation of VEGFR1 signaling is still an opportunity-rich field for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyoshi Uemura
- Department of Retinal Vascular Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Marcus Fruttiger
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
| | - Patricia A D'Amore
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Sandro De Falco
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati-Traverso", Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy; ANBITION S.r.l., Via Manzoni 1, 80123, Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonia M Joussen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, and Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Florian Sennlaub
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France.
| | - Lynne R Brunck
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Kristian T Johnson
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - George N Lambrou
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Kay D Rittenhouse
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Langmann
- Laboratory for Experimental Immunology of the Eye, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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105
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Cha S, Seo WI, Woo HN, Kim HJ, Lee SHS, Kim J, Choi JS, Park K, Lee JY, Lee BJ, Lee H. AAV expressing an mTOR-inhibiting siRNA exhibits therapeutic potential in retinal vascular disorders by preserving endothelial integrity. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 12:71-81. [PMID: 34431239 PMCID: PMC8727948 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Expanding on previous demonstrations of the therapeutic effects of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) carrying small‐hairpin RNA (shRNA) in downregulating the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) in in vivo retinal vascular disorders, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated endothelial cells were treated with AAV2‐shmTOR to examine the role of mTOR inhibition in retinal angiogenesis. AAV2‐shmTOR exposure significantly reduced mTOR expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and decreased downstream signaling cascades of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2 under VEGF treatment. Moreover, the angiogenic potential of VEGF was significantly inhibited by AAV2‐shmTOR, which preserved endothelial integrity by maintaining tight junctions between HUVECs. These data thus support previous in vivo studies and provide evidence that AAV2‐shmTOR induces therapeutic effects by inhibiting the neovascularization of endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seho Cha
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea
| | - Won-Il Seo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine: College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Ha-Na Woo
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Korea.,Bio-Medical Institute of Technology, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jong Kim
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea
| | - Steven Hyun Seung Lee
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea.,Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Kim
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea
| | - Jun-Sub Choi
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea
| | - Keerang Park
- CuroGene Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Cheongju, Korea
| | - Joo Yong Lee
- Bio-Medical Institute of Technology, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Jun Lee
- Department of Veterinary Medicine: College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Heuiran Lee
- Bio-Medical Institute of Technology, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Microbiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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106
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Paisley CE, Kay JN. Seeing stars: Development and function of retinal astrocytes. Dev Biol 2021; 478:144-154. [PMID: 34260962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the central nervous system, astrocytes adopt precisely ordered spatial arrangements of their somata and arbors, which facilitate their many important functions. Astrocyte pattern formation is particularly important in the retina, where astrocytes serve as a template that dictates the pattern of developing retinal vasculature. Thus, if astrocyte patterning is disturbed, there are severe consequences for retinal angiogenesis and ultimately for vision - as seen in diseases such as retinopathy of prematurity. Here we discuss key steps in development of the retinal astrocyte population. We describe how fundamental developmental forces - their birth, migration, proliferation, and death - sculpt astrocytes into a template that guides angiogenesis. We further address the radical changes in the cellular and molecular composition of the astrocyte network that occur upon completion of angiogenesis, paving the way for their adult functions in support of retinal ganglion cell axons. Understanding development of retinal astrocytes may elucidate pattern formation mechanisms that are deployed broadly by other axon-associated astrocyte populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Paisley
- Departments of Neurobiology, Ophthalmology, and Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Jeremy N Kay
- Departments of Neurobiology, Ophthalmology, and Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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107
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Brücher VC, Egbring C, Plagemann T, Nedvetsky PI, Höffken V, Pavenstädt H, Eter N, Kremerskothen J, Heiduschka P. Lack of WWC2 Protein Leads to Aberrant Angiogenesis in Postnatal Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5321. [PMID: 34070186 PMCID: PMC8158494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The WWC protein family is an upstream regulator of the Hippo signalling pathway that is involved in many cellular processes. We examined the effect of an endothelium-specific WWC1 and/or WWC2 knock-out on ocular angiogenesis. Knock-outs were induced in C57BL/6 mice at the age of one day (P1) and evaluated at P6 (postnatal mice) or induced at the age of five weeks and evaluated at three months of age (adult mice). We analysed morphology of retinal vasculature in retinal flat mounts. In addition, in vivo imaging and functional testing by electroretinography were performed in adult mice. Adult WWC1/2 double knock-out mice differed neither functionally nor morphologically from the control group. In contrast, the retinas of the postnatal WWC knock-out mice showed a hyperproliferative phenotype with significantly enlarged areas of sprouting angiogenesis and a higher number of tip cells. The branching and end points in the peripheral plexus were significantly increased compared to the control group. The deletion of the WWC2 gene was decisive for these effects; while knocking out WWC1 showed no significant differences. The results hint strongly that WWC2 is an essential regulator of ocular angiogenesis in mice. As an activator of the Hippo signalling pathway, it prevents excessive proliferation during physiological angiogenesis. In adult animals, WWC proteins do not seem to be important for the maintenance of the mature vascular plexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Constanze Brücher
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (V.C.B.); (C.E.); (T.P.); (N.E.)
| | - Charlotte Egbring
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (V.C.B.); (C.E.); (T.P.); (N.E.)
| | - Tanja Plagemann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (V.C.B.); (C.E.); (T.P.); (N.E.)
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine D, Hypertension and Rheumatology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (P.I.N.); (H.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Pavel I. Nedvetsky
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine D, Hypertension and Rheumatology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (P.I.N.); (H.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Verena Höffken
- Medical Cell Biology, Medical Clinic D, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany;
| | - Hermann Pavenstädt
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine D, Hypertension and Rheumatology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (P.I.N.); (H.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Nicole Eter
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (V.C.B.); (C.E.); (T.P.); (N.E.)
| | - Joachim Kremerskothen
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine D, Hypertension and Rheumatology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (P.I.N.); (H.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Peter Heiduschka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Münster Medical School, 48149 Münster, Germany; (V.C.B.); (C.E.); (T.P.); (N.E.)
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108
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Perelli RM, O'Sullivan ML, Zarnick S, Kay JN. Environmental oxygen regulates astrocyte proliferation to guide angiogenesis during retinal development. Development 2021; 148:261802. [PMID: 33960384 PMCID: PMC8126409 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis in the developing mammalian retina requires patterning cues from astrocytes. Developmental disorders of retinal vasculature, such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), involve arrest or mispatterning of angiogenesis. Whether these vascular pathologies involve astrocyte dysfunction remains untested. Here, we demonstrate that the major risk factor for ROP – transient neonatal exposure to excess oxygen – disrupts formation of the angiogenic astrocyte template. Exposing newborn mice to elevated oxygen (75%) suppressed astrocyte proliferation, whereas return to room air (21% oxygen) at postnatal day 4 triggered extensive proliferation, massively increasing astrocyte numbers and disturbing their spatial patterning prior to the arrival of developing vasculature. Proliferation required astrocytic HIF2α and was also stimulated by direct hypoxia (10% oxygen), suggesting that astrocyte oxygen sensing regulates the number of astrocytes produced during development. Along with astrocyte defects, return to room air also caused vascular defects reminiscent of ROP. Strikingly, these vascular phenotypes were more severe in animals that had larger numbers of excess astrocytes. Together, our findings suggest that fluctuations in environmental oxygen dysregulate molecular pathways controlling astrocyte proliferation, thereby generating excess astrocytes that interfere with retinal angiogenesis. Highlighted Article: Oxygen regulates proliferation of immature retinal astrocytes. Perturbing this mechanism inflates astrocyte numbers, disrupts retinal angiogenesis and leads to vascular pathologies resembling retinopathy of prematurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin M Perelli
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew L O'Sullivan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Ophthalmology Residency Program, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Samantha Zarnick
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jeremy N Kay
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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109
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Concurrent Physiological and Pathological Angiogenesis in Retinopathy of Prematurity and Emerging Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094809. [PMID: 34062733 PMCID: PMC8124946 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an ocular vascular disease affecting premature infants, characterized by pathological retinal neovascularization (RNV), dilated and tortuous retinal blood vessels, and retinal or vitreous hemorrhages that may lead to retinal detachment, vision impairment and blindness. Compared with other neovascular diseases, ROP is unique because of ongoing and concurrent physiological and pathological angiogenesis in the developing retina. While the disease is currently treated by laser or cryotherapy, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents have been extensively investigated but are not approved in the U.S. because of safety concerns that they negatively interfere with physiological angiogenesis of the developing retina. An ideal therapeutic strategy would selectively inhibit pathological but not physiological angiogenesis. Our group recently described a novel strategy that selectively and safely alleviates pathological RNV in animal models of ROP by targeting secretogranin III (Scg3), a disease-restricted angiogenic factor. The preclinical profile of anti-Scg3 therapy presents a high potential for next-generation disease-targeted anti-angiogenic therapy for the ROP indication. This review focuses on retinal vessel development in neonates, the pathogenesis of ROP and its underlying molecular mechanisms, including different animal models, and provides a summary of current and emerging therapies.
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110
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Cappelli HC, Guarino BD, Kanugula AK, Adapala RK, Perera V, Smith MA, Paruchuri S, Thodeti CK. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel deletion regulates pathological but not developmental retinal angiogenesis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:3770-3779. [PMID: 33078410 PMCID: PMC7920906 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels are mechanosensitive ion channels that regulate systemic endothelial cell (EC) functions such as vasodilation, permeability, and angiogenesis. TRPV4 is expressed in retinal ganglion cells, Müller glia, pigment epithelium, microvascular ECs, and modulates cell volume regulation, calcium homeostasis, and survival. TRPV4-mediated physiological or pathological retinal angiogenesis remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that TRPV4 is expressed, functional, and mechanosensitive in retinal ECs. The genetic deletion of TRPV4 did not affect postnatal developmental angiogenesis but increased pathological neovascularization in response to oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Retinal vessels from TRPV4 knockout mice subjected to OIR exhibited neovascular tufts that projected into the vitreous humor and displayed reduced pericyte coverage compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that TRPV4 is a regulator of retinal angiogenesis, its deletion augments pathological retinal angiogenesis, and that TRPV4 could be a novel target for the development of therapies against neovascular ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly C. Cappelli
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
| | - Brianna D. Guarino
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Anantha K. Kanugula
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Ravi K. Adapala
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
| | - Vidushani Perera
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Matthew A. Smith
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- Rebbeca D. Considine Research Institute, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron, OH 44302
| | | | - Charles K. Thodeti
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
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111
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Marziano C, Genet G, Hirschi KK. Vascular endothelial cell specification in health and disease. Angiogenesis 2021; 24:213-236. [PMID: 33844116 PMCID: PMC8205897 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-021-09785-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There are two vascular networks in mammals that coordinately function as the main supply and drainage systems of the body. The blood vasculature carries oxygen, nutrients, circulating cells, and soluble factors to and from every tissue. The lymphatic vasculature maintains interstitial fluid homeostasis, transports hematopoietic cells for immune surveillance, and absorbs fat from the gastrointestinal tract. These vascular systems consist of highly organized networks of specialized vessels including arteries, veins, capillaries, and lymphatic vessels that exhibit different structures and cellular composition enabling distinct functions. All vessels are composed of an inner layer of endothelial cells that are in direct contact with the circulating fluid; therefore, they are the first responders to circulating factors. However, endothelial cells are not homogenous; rather, they are a heterogenous population of specialized cells perfectly designed for the physiological demands of the vessel they constitute. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of the specification of arterial, venous, capillary, and lymphatic endothelial cell identities during vascular development. We also discuss how the dysregulation of these processes can lead to vascular malformations, and therapeutic approaches that have been developed for their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Marziano
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.,Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Gael Genet
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.,Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Karen K Hirschi
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA. .,Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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112
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Uemura A, Fukushima Y. Rho GTPases in Retinal Vascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073684. [PMID: 33916163 PMCID: PMC8036301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Rho family of small GTPases (Rho GTPases) act as molecular switches that transduce extrinsic stimuli into cytoskeletal rearrangements. In vascular endothelial cells (ECs), Cdc42, Rac1, and RhoA control cell migration and cell–cell junctions downstream of angiogenic and inflammatory cytokines, thereby regulating vascular formation and permeability. While these Rho GTPases are broadly expressed in various types of cells, RhoJ is enriched in angiogenic ECs. Semaphorin 3E (Sema3E) releases RhoJ from the intracellular domain of PlexinD1, by which RhoJ induces actin depolymerization through competition with Cdc42 for their common effector proteins. RhoJ further mediates the Sema3E-induced association of PlexinD1 with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) 2 and the activation of p38. Upon stimulation with VEGF-A, RhoJ facilitates the formation of a holoreceptor complex comprising VEGFR2, PlexinD1, and neuropilin-1, leading to the prevention of VEGFR2 degradation and the maintenance of intracellular signal transduction. These pleiotropic roles of RhoJ are required for directional EC migration in retinal angiogenesis. This review highlights the latest insights regarding Rho GTPases in the field of vascular biology, as it will be informative to consider their potential as targets for the treatment of aberrant angiogenesis and hyperpermeability in retinal vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyoshi Uemura
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan
- Department of Cell Biology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Osaka 564-8565, Japan
- Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Japan
- Uemura Eye Clinic, Nishinomiya 663-8101, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-798-61-8000
| | - Yoko Fukushima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka 563-0871, Japan;
- Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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113
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Khan HA, Shahzad MA, Iqbal F, Awan MA, Khan QA, Saatci AO, Abbass A, Hussain F, Hussain SA, Ali A, Ali W. Ophthalmological Aspects of von-Hippel-Lindau Syndrome. Semin Ophthalmol 2021; 36:531-540. [PMID: 33780299 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2021.1897851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome is a multisystem neoplastic disorder involving eyes, central nervous system, kidneys, spine, and other tissues. A retinal capillary hemangioma (RCH) is the earliest manifestation of the VHL disease in most cases.Areas covered:This paper aims to provide an up-to-date review of the current literature about von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. Molecular background, systemic and ocular features of the diseases as well as the utility of newer imaging modalities in diagnosis and monitoring of ocular VHL disease have been described. Besides, we have discussed newer treatment modalities and therapeutic targets.Conclusion: Modern imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography are tools of the trade, in making an appropriate diagnosis and monitoring disease activity and response to treatment. Peripheral RCH may be treated using laser photocoagulation in tumors up to 3000 µm. Vascular endothelial growth factor suppression can help in reducing tumor activity and stabilize the tumor size; however, it does not regress the RCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashim Ali Khan
- Ophthalmology department, SEHHAT Foundation Hospital, Danyore, Gilgit, Pakistan.,School of Optometry & Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Fatima Iqbal
- School of Optometry & Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan.,School of Optometry and Vision Science - University of New South Wale, Sydney, Australia
| | - Muhammad Amer Awan
- Ophthalmology department, Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Qaim Ali Khan
- Ophthalmology department, Punch Medical College, AJK, Pakistan
| | | | - Ahmed Abbass
- Ophthalmology department, Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fazil Hussain
- Department of General Medicine PHQ Hospital, Gilgit, Pakistan
| | - Syed Arif Hussain
- Neurosurgery department, Pakistan Institute of Medical Science (PIMS), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Atif Ali
- Department of Acute Medicine, Luton & Dunstable Hospital, Luton, UK
| | - Wajahat Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine, King's Mill Hospital, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, UK
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114
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Guo Z, Mo Z. Regulation of endothelial cell differentiation in embryonic vascular development and its therapeutic potential in cardiovascular diseases. Life Sci 2021; 276:119406. [PMID: 33785330 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119406] [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: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During vertebrate development, the cardiovascular system begins operating earlier than any other organ in the embryo. Endothelial cell (EC) forms the inner lining of blood vessels, and its extensive proliferation and migration are requisite for vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Many aspects of cellular biology are involved in vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, including the tip versus stalk cell specification. Recently, epigenetics has attracted growing attention in regulating embryonic vascular development and controlling EC differentiation. Some proteins that regulate chromatin structure have been shown to be directly implicated in human cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the roles of important EC signaling such as vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors, angiopoietin-1 and tyrosine kinase containing immunoglobulin and epidermal growth factor homology domain-2, and transforming growth factor-β in EC differentiation during embryonic vasculature development are briefly discussed in this review. Recently, the transplantation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-ECs are promising approaches for the treatment of ischemic cardiovascular disease including myocardial infarction. Patient-specific iPSC-derived EC is a potential new target to study differences in gene expression or response to drugs. However, clinical application of the iPSC-ECs in regenerative medicine is often limited by the challenges of maintaining cell viability and function. Therefore, novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying EC differentiation might provide a better understanding of embryonic vascular development and bring out more effective EC-based therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaohui Mo
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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115
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Lu C, Zhang Q, Zhang H, Li X, Jiang Q, Yao J. A small molecular multi-targeting tyrosine kinase inhibitor, anlotinib, inhibits pathological ocular neovascularization. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 138:111493. [PMID: 33740528 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular neovascularization is a devastating pathology observed in numerous ocular diseases and is a major cause of blindness. However, all current treatments have their limitations. Hence, it is important to explore new therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to investigate the role of anlotinib, a small molecular multi-targeting tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in ocular neovascularization. Anlotinib administration did not induce any cytotoxicity and tissue toxicity at the tested concentrations. Cellular functional experiments demonstrated that anlotinib inhibited the viability, proliferation, migration, and tube formation ability of endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes. Western blot analysis demonstrated that anlotinib significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFR-β), as well as their downstream signaling pathways stimulated by VEGF or PDGF-BB, in a concentration-dependent manner in ECs and pericytes. Using an oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model, our results demonstrated that injection of anlotinib reduced avascular areas and pathological neovascular tufts. Furthermore, using a laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model, we observed that the combined treatment of anlotinib and Lucentis reduced the size and thickness of CNV lesions compared to Lucentis monotherapy alone. Taken together, our results suggest that anlotinib could be a promising drug candidate for ocular neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Lu
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Qiuyang Zhang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Huiying Zhang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiumiao Li
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Jin Yao
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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116
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Rezar‐Dreindl S, Eibenberger K, Told R, Neumayer T, Steiner I, Sacu S, Schmidt‐Erfurth U, Stifter E. Retinal vessel architecture in retinopathy of prematurity and healthy controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:e232-e239. [PMID: 32749763 PMCID: PMC7984179 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine microvascular changes in children with a history of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and in a control group of full-term children. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 30 eyes of 15 children aged 6-8 years with a history of ROP were evaluated with swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA). Twenty-eight eyes of 22 age-matched full-term children served as a healthy control group. The foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vessel density (VD) and choroidal vascular flow area (VFA) were evaluated on OCTA and correlated with central retinal thickness (CRT), visual acuity (VA), birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA) and ROP stages. RESULTS Twenty-two eyes of 14 children with a history of ROP (stage 1-3) and 25 eyes of 19 full-term children were available for evaluation. In the ROP group, the gestational age was 27 ± 2 weeks and birth weight was 781 ± 164 g. In the ROP group, CRT was higher in the central ETDRS segment (mean difference [95% CI]: 32.8 µm [18.7; 47.0], p = 0.0002) compared to the controls. Smaller mean FAZ area (-0.12 [-0.19; -0.04], p = 0.004) and perimeter (-662 [-1228; -96], p = 0.03) was found in comparison to the control group. An oval shape of the FAZ was observed among patients with a history of ROP. The mean central VD of the superficial plexus was 28 ± 8/23 ± 8% and of the deep plexus 7 ± 7/3 ± 5% (ROP group/control group; p > 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found regarding the choroidal VFA. Only weak correlation of FAZ and VD with function was observed. CONCLUSIONS Swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography imaging revealed significant microvascular anomalies in children with a history of ROP indicating disturbance of early morphological development of the central retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Rezar‐Dreindl
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | | | - Reinhard Told
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Thomas Neumayer
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Irene Steiner
- Section for Medical StatisticsCenter for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems (CeMSIIS)Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Stefan Sacu
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | | | - Eva Stifter
- Department of Ophthalmology and OptometryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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117
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Jian L, Mei Y, Xing C, Rongdi Y. Haem relieves hyperoxia-mediated inhibition of HMEC-1 cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis by inhibiting BACH1 expression. BMC Ophthalmol 2021; 21:104. [PMID: 33632168 PMCID: PMC7905865 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-021-01866-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hyperoxia-mediated inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the retina is the main cause of impeded angiogenesis during phase I retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Human retinal angiogenesis involves the proliferation, migration and vessel-forming ability of microvascular endothelial cells. Previous studies have confirmed that BTB and CNC homology l (BACH1) can inhibit VEGF and angiogenesis, while haem can specifically degrade BACH1. However, the effect of haem on endothelial cells and ROP remains unknown. Methods In this report, we established a model of the relative hyperoxia of phase I ROP by subjecting human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) to 40% hyperoxia. Haem was added, and its effects on the growth and viability of HMEC-1 cells were evaluated. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) and 5-ethynyl-2′-deox-yuridine (EdU) assays were used to detect proliferation, whereas a wound healing assay and Matrigel cultures were used to detect the migration and vessel-forming ability, respectively. Western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence (IF) assays were used to detect the relative protein levels of BACH1 and VEGF. Results HMEC-1 cells could absorb extracellular haem under normoxic or hyperoxic conditions. The proliferation, migration and angiogenesis abilities of HMEC-1 cells were inhibited under hyperoxia. Moderate levels of haem can promote endothelial cell proliferation, while 20 μM haem could inhibit BACH1 expression, promote VEGF expression, and relieve the inhibition of proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in HMEC-1 cells induced by hyperoxia. Conclusions Haem (20 μM) can relieve hyperoxia-induced inhibition of VEGF activity in HMEC-1 cells by inhibiting BACH1 and may be a potential medicine for overcoming stunted retinal angiogenesis induced by relative hyperoxia in phase I ROP. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12886-021-01866-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Jian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Xinqiao Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400032, China
| | - Yang Mei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Xinqiao Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400032, China
| | - Chen Xing
- Department of Army Occupational Disease, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yuan Rongdi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Xinqiao Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400032, China.
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118
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Anomalous Angiogenesis in Retina. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020224. [PMID: 33671578 PMCID: PMC7927046 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may cause severe loss of vision or blindness, particularly in elderly people. Exudative AMD is characterized by the angiogenesis of blood vessels growing from underneath the macula, crossing the blood–retina barrier (which comprises Bruch’s membrane (BM) and the retinal pigmentation epithelium (RPE)), leaking blood and fluid into the retina and knocking off photoreceptors. Here, we simulate a computational model of angiogenesis from the choroid blood vessels via a cellular Potts model, as well as BM, RPE cells, drusen deposits and photoreceptors. Our results indicate that improving AMD may require fixing the impaired lateral adhesion between RPE cells and with BM, as well as diminishing Vessel Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Jagged proteins that affect the Notch signaling pathway. Our numerical simulations suggest that anti-VEGF and anti-Jagged therapies could temporarily halt exudative AMD while addressing impaired cellular adhesion, which could be more effective over a longer time-span.
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119
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Chen N, Wu J, Wang J, Piri N, Chen F, Xiao T, Zhao Y, Sun D, Kaplan HJ, Shao H. Short chain fatty acids inhibit endotoxin-induced uveitis and inflammatory responses of retinal astrocytes. Exp Eye Res 2021; 206:108520. [PMID: 33617852 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced by gut microbiota as fermentation products of digestion-resistant oligosaccharides and fibers. Their primary roles are functioning as major energy sources for colon cells and assisting in gut homeostasis by immunomodulation. Recent evidence suggests that they affect various organs both at cellular and molecular levels, and regulate functions in distance sites including gene expression, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, apoptosis and inflammation. In this study, we examined whether SCFAs are present in the mouse eye and whether SCFAs affect inflammatory responses of the eye and retinal astrocytes (RACs). We observed that intra-peritoneal injected SCFAs were detected in the eye and reduced intraocular inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Moreover, SCFAs displayed two disparate effects on LPS-stimulated RACs - namely, cytokine and chemokine production was reduced, but the ability to activate T cells was enhanced. Our results support the existence of gut-eye cross talk and suggest that SCFAs can cross the blood-eye-barrier via the systemic circulation. If applied at high concentrations, SCFAs may reduce inflammation and impact cellular functions in the intraocular milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Jingrui Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Niloofar Piri
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Feilan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Tong Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Huntsville, TX, USA
| | - Deming Sun
- Doheny Eye Institute & Department. Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Henry J Kaplan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
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120
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Jiang Q, Liu C, Li CP, Xu SS, Yao MD, Ge HM, Sun YN, Li XM, Zhang SJ, Shan K, Liu BH, Yao J, Zhao C, Yan B. Circular RNA-ZNF532 regulates diabetes-induced retinal pericyte degeneration and vascular dysfunction. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:3833-3847. [PMID: 32343678 DOI: 10.1172/jci123353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Vascular pericyte degeneration is the predominant clinical manifestation of DR, yet the mechanism governing pericyte degeneration is poorly understood. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in multiple biological processes and disease progression. Here, we investigated the role of circRNA in pericyte biology and diabetes-induced retinal vascular dysfunction. cZNF532 expression was upregulated in pericytes under diabetic stress, in the retinal vessels of a diabetic murine model, and in the vitreous humor of diabetic patients. cZNF532 silencing reduced the viability, proliferation, and differentiation of pericytes and suppressed the recruitment of pericytes toward endothelial cells in vitro. cZNF532 regulated pericyte biology by acting as a miR-29a-3p sponge and inducing increased expression of NG2, LOXL2, and CDK2. Knockdown of cZNF532 or overexpression of miR-29a-3p aggravated streptozotocin-induced retinal pericyte degeneration and vascular dysfunction. By contrast, overexpression of cZNF532 or inhibition of miR-29a-3p ameliorated human diabetic vitreous-induced retinal pericyte degeneration and vascular dysfunction. Collectively, these data identify a circRNA-mediated mechanism that coordinates pericyte biology and vascular homeostasis in DR. Induction of cZNF532 or antagonism of miR-29a-3p is an exploitable therapeutic approach for the treatment of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Jiang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital and.,Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao-Peng Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Huai'an First People's Hospital, Huai An, China
| | - Shan-Shan Xu
- Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mu-Di Yao
- Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui-Min Ge
- Affiliated Eye Hospital and.,Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya-Nan Sun
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Shu-Jie Zhang
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Shan
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bai-Hui Liu
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Yao
- Affiliated Eye Hospital and.,Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Biao Yan
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, China.,National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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121
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Grant ZL, Whitehead L, Wong VH, He Z, Yan RY, Miles AR, Benest AV, Bates DO, Prahst C, Bentley K, Bui BV, Symons RC, Coultas L. Blocking endothelial apoptosis revascularizes the retina in a model of ischemic retinopathy. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:4235-4251. [PMID: 32427589 PMCID: PMC7410052 DOI: 10.1172/jci127668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant, neovascular retinal blood vessel growth is a vision-threatening complication in ischemic retinal diseases. It is driven by retinal hypoxia frequently caused by capillary nonperfusion and endothelial cell (EC) loss. We investigated the role of EC apoptosis in this process using a mouse model of ischemic retinopathy, in which vessel closure and EC apoptosis cause capillary regression and retinal ischemia followed by neovascularization. Protecting ECs from apoptosis in this model did not prevent capillary closure or retinal ischemia. Nonetheless, it prevented the clearance of ECs from closed capillaries, delaying vessel regression and allowing ECs to persist in clusters throughout the ischemic zone. In response to hypoxia, these preserved ECs underwent a vessel sprouting response and rapidly reassembled into a functional vascular network. This alleviated retinal hypoxia, preventing subsequent pathogenic neovascularization. Vessel reassembly was not limited by VEGFA neutralization, suggesting it was not dependent on the excess VEGFA produced by the ischemic retina. Neutralization of ANG2 did not prevent vessel reassembly, but did impair subsequent angiogenic expansion of the reassembled vessels. Blockade of EC apoptosis may promote ischemic tissue revascularization by preserving ECs within ischemic tissue that retain the capacity to reassemble a functional network and rapidly restore blood supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe L Grant
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, and
| | - Lachlan Whitehead
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, and
| | - Vickie Hy Wong
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zheng He
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Y Yan
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Abigail R Miles
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew V Benest
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David O Bates
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia Prahst
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katie Bentley
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Beijer Laboratory for Gene and Neuroscience Research, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bang V Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert Ca Symons
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leigh Coultas
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, and
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122
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Yu PK, Mehnert A, Athwal A, Sarunic MV, Yu DY. Use of the Retinal Vascular Histology to Validate an Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Technique. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:29. [PMID: 33520424 PMCID: PMC7817878 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.1.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the fidelity of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) techniques by direct comparison of the retinal capillary network images obtained from the same region as imaged by OCTA and high-resolution confocal microscope. Method Ten porcine eyes were perfused with red blood cells for OCTA image acquisition from the area centralis and then perfusion-fixed, and the vessels were labeled for confocal imaging. Two approaches involving post-processing of two-dimensional projection images and vessel tracking on three dimensional image stacks were used to obtain quantitative measurements. Data collected include vessel density, length of visible vessel track, count of visible branch points, vessel track depth, vessel diameter, angle of vessel descent, and angle of dive for comparison and analysis. Results Comparing vascular images acquired from OCTA and confocal microscopy, we found (1) a good representation of the larger caliber retinal vessels, (2) an underrepresentation of retinal microvessels smaller than 10 µm and branch points in all four retinal vascular plexuses, particularly the intermediate capillary plexus, (3) reduced visibility associated with an increase in the angle of descent, (4) a tendency to loss visibility of vessel track at a branch point or during a sharp dive, and (5) a reduction in visibility with increase in retinal depth on OCTA images. Conclusions Current OCTA techniques can visualize the retinal capillary network, but some types of capillaries cannot be detected by OCTA, particularly in the middle to deeper layers. Translational Relevance The information indicates the limitation in clinical use and scopes for improvement in the current OCTA technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula K Yu
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Mehnert
- Centre for Microscopy Characterisation and Analysis, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,National Imaging Facility, Australia
| | - Arman Athwal
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Marinko V Sarunic
- School of Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Dao-Yi Yu
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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123
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Peripapillary and Macular Flow Changes in Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A). J Ophthalmol 2021; 2020:3010631. [PMID: 33489325 PMCID: PMC7803121 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3010631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To analyze the blood flow changes of radial peripapillary capillaries (RPCs) and macula with time procession in patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A). Methods A total of 21 affected eyes and 19 unaffected eyes from 21 NAION patients were included. Assessments of BCVA, CFP, SD-OCT, and OCT-A were performed on NAION patients at enrollment and at 1-2 weeks, 1-2 months, and 3–6 months after enrollment. Measures of the thickness of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (wRNFL) and macular ganglion cell complex (wGCC) of the whole image in SD-OCT, vessel density of the RPC (wRPC) and superficial and deep vascular complexes (wSVD, wDVD) in the whole image of OCT-A, and their superior- and inferior-hemi values (s/iRNFL, s/iGCC, s/iRPC, and s/iSVD) were assessed. Results Compared to unaffected control eyes, wRPC (p ≤ 0.001) was significantly lower in affected eyes at baseline, and there was no significant difference in wSVD (p > 0.05). The wRPC and wSVD values of affected eyes were significantly decreased at follow-up time points of 1–2 and 3–6 months compared to baseline (p=0.001, p ≤ 0.001; p ≤ 0.001, p ≤ 0.001). The sRPC values were significantly lower than iRPC at 1-2/3–6 months (p=0.016, p=0.013), and sSVD values were lower than iSVD at 1-2 months (p=0.010). Statistically significant correlations were found between wRPC and wRNFL values at 3–6 months (r = 0.626, p=0.022), between wSVD and wGCC at 1-2 weeks and 1-2 months (r = 0.570, r = 0.436; p=0.007, p=0.048). Conclusion OCT-A revealed a sectorial reduction in vessel density in the RPC and macula with the disease progression of NAION from acute to atrophic stages, a classification associated with structural deficits.
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Pesce NA, Canovai A, Lardner E, Cammalleri M, Kvanta A, André H, Dal Monte M. Autophagy Involvement in the Postnatal Development of the Rat Retina. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010177. [PMID: 33477313 PMCID: PMC7830352 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
During retinal development, a physiologic hypoxia stimulates endothelial cell proliferation. The hypoxic milieu warrants retina vascularization and promotes the activation of several mechanisms aimed to ensure homeostasis and energy balance of both endothelial and retinal cells. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic system that contributes to cellular adaptation to a variety of environmental changes and stresses. In association with the physiologic hypoxia, autophagy plays a crucial role during development. Autophagy expression profile was evaluated in the developing retina from birth to post-natal day 18 of rat pups, using qPCR, western blotting and immunostaining methodologies. The rat post-partum developing retina displayed increased active autophagy during the first postnatal days, correlating to the hypoxic phase. In latter stages of development, rat retinal autophagy decreases, reaching a normalization between post-natal days 14-18, when the retina is fully vascularized and mature. Collectively, the present study elaborates on the link between hypoxia and autophagy, and contributes to further elucidate the role of autophagy during retinal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Anna Pesce
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Eugeniavägen 12, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (N.A.P.); (E.L.); (A.K.)
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Alessio Canovai
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Emma Lardner
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Eugeniavägen 12, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (N.A.P.); (E.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Eugeniavägen 12, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (N.A.P.); (E.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Eugeniavägen 12, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (N.A.P.); (E.L.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-700-923-479
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
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125
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YAP promotes ocular neovascularization by modifying PFKFB3-driven endothelial glycolysis. Angiogenesis 2021; 24:489-504. [PMID: 33400016 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-020-09760-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ocular neovascularization is the leading cause of vision impairment in a variety of ocular diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and retinopathy of prematurity. Emerging studies have suggested that the yes-associated protein (YAP), a downstream effector of the Hippo pathway, is involved in the pathological angiogenesis, but the mechanism are largely unknown. Here, we demonstrated that hypoxic treatment triggered YAP expression and nuclear translocation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). YAP acted as a transcriptional co-activator working together with transcriptional enhancer activator domain 1 (TEAD1) to binds the promoter of the key glycolytic regulator 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase3 (PFKFB3), and thereby increases PFKFB3 expression. Moreover, silencing of YAP inhibited glycolysis as well as proliferation, migration, sprouting and tube formation of HUVECs under hypoxia, all of which could be reversed by enforced expression of PFKFB3. Finally, our animal study also showed that intravitreal injection of small interfering RNA of YAP or PFKFB3 dramatically suppressed the neovascular growth in mouse models of choroidal neovascularization and oxygen-induced retinopathy. These findings provide new insights into a previously unrecognized effect of YAP on endothelial glycolysis and highlight the potential of targeting YAP/PFKFB3 axis in the treatment of ocular neovascularization.
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Kassumeh S, Weber GR, Nobl M, Priglinger SG, Ohlmann A. The neuroprotective role of Wnt signaling in the retina. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1524-1528. [PMID: 33433466 PMCID: PMC8323680 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.303010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has been shown to play a major role during embryonic development and maturation of the central nervous system including the retina. It has a significant impact on retinal vessel formation and maturation, as well as on the establishment of synaptic structures and neuronal function in the central nervous system. Mutations in components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascade may lead to severe retinal diseases, while dysregulation of Wnt signaling can contribute to disease progression. Apart from the angiogenic role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, research in the last decades leads to the theory of a protective effect of Wnt/β-catenin signaling on damaged neurons. In this review, we focus on the neuroprotective properties of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway as well as its downstream signaling in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kassumeh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Gregor R Weber
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Nobl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Siegfried G Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Ohlmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336 Munich, Germany
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127
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Ma J, Tang W, Gu R, Hu F, Zhang L, Wu J, Xu G. SHP-2-Induced Activation of c-Myc Is Involved in PDGF-B-Regulated Cell Proliferation and Angiogenesis in RMECs. Front Physiol 2020; 11:555006. [PMID: 33329018 PMCID: PMC7719712 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.555006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Aberrant neovascularization resulting from inappropriate angiogenic signaling is closely related to many diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and proliferative retinopathy. Although some factors involved in regulating pathogenic angiogenesis have been identified, the molecular mechanisms of proliferative retinopathy remain largely unknown. In the present study, we determined the role of platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B), one of the HIF-1-responsive gene products, in cell proliferation and angiogenesis in retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RMECs) and explored its regulatory mechanism. Methods: Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, tube formation, cell migration, and Western blot assays were used in our study. Results: Our results showed that PDGF-B promoted cell proliferation and angiogenesis by increasing the activity of Src homology 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP-2) in RMECs, which was attenuated by the inhibition of PDGF receptor (PDGFR) or SHP-2 knockdown. Moreover, activation of c-Myc was involved in the processes of PDGF-B/SHP-2-driven cell proliferation in RMECs. The promoting effects of PDGF-B/SHP-2 on c-Myc expression were mediated by the Erk pathway. Conclusion: These results indicate that PDGF-B facilitates cell proliferation and angiogenesis, at least in part, via the SHP-2/Erk/c-Myc pathway in RMECs, implying new potential treatment candidates for retinal microangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ma
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenyi Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruiping Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangyuan Hu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Wu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gezhi Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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128
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Vilela MA, Amaral CE, Ferreira MAT. Retinal vascular tortuosity: Mechanisms and measurements. Eur J Ophthalmol 2020; 31:1497-1506. [PMID: 33307777 DOI: 10.1177/1120672120979907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Retinal vessel tortuosity has been used in the diagnosis and management of different clinical situations. Notwithstanding, basic concepts, standards and tools of measurement, reliable normative data and clinical applications have many gaps or points of divergence. In this review we discuss triggering causes of retinal vessel tortuosity and resources used to assess and quantify it, as well as current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ap Vilela
- Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Carlos Ev Amaral
- Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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129
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Markasz L, Olsson KW, Holmström G, Sindelar R. Cluster Analysis of Early Postnatal Biochemical Markers May Predict Development of Retinopathy of Prematurity. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:14. [PMID: 33344058 PMCID: PMC7726592 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.13.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Growth factors and inflammatory and angiogenetic proteins are involved in the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). However, no early biochemical markers are in clinical use to predict ROP. By performing cluster analysis of multiple biomarkers, we aimed to determine patient groups with high and low risk for developing ROP. Methods In total, 202 protein markers in plasma were quantified by proximity extension assay from 35 extremely preterm infants on day 2 of life. Infants were sorted in groups by automated two-dimensional hierarchical clustering of all biomarkers. ROP was classified as stages I to III with or without surgical treatment. Predictive biomarkers were evaluated by analysis of variance and detected differences by two-sided paired t-test with Bonferroni corrections for multiple comparisons. Results Differences in 39 biochemical markers divided infants without ROP into two control groups (control 1, n = 7; control 2, n = 5; P < 0.05). Sixty-six biochemical markers defined differences between the control groups (n = 13) and all ROP infants (n = 23; P < 0.05). PARK7, VIM, MPO, CD69, and NEMO were markedly increased in control 1 compared to all ROP infants (P < 0.001). Lower TNFRSF4 and higher HER2 and GAL appeared in infants with ROP as compared to control 1 and/or 2 (P < 0.05, respectively). Conclusions Our data suggest that early elevated levels of PARK7, VIM, MPO, CD69, and NEMO may be associated with lower risk of developing ROP. Lower levels of TNFRSF4 with higher levels of HER2 and GAL may predict ROP development. Translational Relevance Cluster analysis of early postnatal biomarkers may help to identify infants with low or high risk of developing ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo Markasz
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karl-Wilhelm Olsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gerd Holmström
- Department of Neuroscience/Ophthalmology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Richard Sindelar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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130
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Ni YQ, Xu SS, Zhang T, Huang X. Clinical features and changes of disease spectrum of zone II retinopathy of prematurity: a 10-year review. Int J Ophthalmol 2020; 13:1753-1757. [PMID: 33215006 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2020.11.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To report the clinical features and evolution of zone II retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS RetCam images of preterm infants with zone II ROP at our hospital between January 2009 and January 2019 were reviewed. The location, extent, and severity of ROP were recorded. Eyes were classified as type 1 zone II, type 2 zone II, and mild zone II ROP. The clinical features and evolution of zone II ROP were analyzed. RESULTS In total, 184 infants (302 eyes) were enrolled. Of these, 55 eyes (18%) developed type 1 zone II ROP, 39 eyes (13%) developed type 2 zone II ROP, and 208 eyes (69%) developed mild zone II ROP. The proportion of type 1 zone II ROP significantly decreased over the 10y. The onset of type 2 zone II and mild zone II ROP were 1wk earlier than type 1 zone II, and both regressed at 45wk. Isolated neovascular tuft (popcorn) and double track signs were characteristic manifestations of zone II ROP. Eighty-seven percent of type 1 zone II ROP regressed completely with an unfavorable outcome that emerged in seven eyes after laser treatment. CONCLUSION Zone II is an area with ROP disease at various risk levels. Zone II ROP has unique clinical presentations like popcorn and double track signs. Over time, the proportion of zone II ROP with high risk gradually decrease and respond well to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Qin Ni
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Si-Si Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200031, China
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131
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Zhang J, Zhu M, Ruan L, Jiang C, Yang Q, Chang Q, Huang X. Protective effects of rapamycin on the retinal vascular bed during the vaso-obliteration phase in mouse oxygen-induced retinopathy model. FASEB J 2020; 34:15822-15836. [PMID: 33103304 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001295r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vision-threatening disorder characterized with retinal vaso-obliteration in phase 1 and pathological neovascularization (NV) in phase 2. However, there has been no effective and safe treatment for ROP. Current management is mainly focused on the reduction of abnormal NV in phase 2, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is the first-line treatment, yet, with great risks of late recurrence and systemic side effects. It has been reported that the severity of vaso-obliteration in phase 1 largely influences subsequent NV, suggesting that it may be a promising target to develop novel treatments for ROP. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential and safety of early rapamycin intervention in treating phase 1 ROP and possible underlying mechanisms using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). We found that intravitreal injection of rapamycin at postnatal day 7 (P7) significantly reduced retinal avascular area, increased vascular density, and reversed the suppression of deep capillaries development in phase 1 of OIR mice. Rapamycin treatment not only reduced vascular apoptosis, but also promoted proliferation and tip cell functions. Additionally, rapamycin did not interfere with normal retinal vascular development. Further investigation showed that Ang1/Tie2 pathway might be involved in rapamycin's vascular protection in phase 1 OIR retinas. Moreover, early rapamycin treatment at P7 had long-term protective effects of reducing retinal NV and avascular area, as well as enhancing vascular maturity in phase 2 of OIR mice. Together, our data suggest that rapamycin may be a safe and promising strategy for early intervention of ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Ruan
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Jiang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Chang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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132
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Li R, Wang Y, Chen P, Meng J, Zhang H. Inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress by activation of G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor to protect retinal astrocytes under hyperoxia. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2020; 35:e22641. [PMID: 32996202 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Retinal vascularization is arrested at the early (hyperoxia) stage in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of blindness in children. Estrogen was reported to alleviate ROP by inhibiting reactive oxygen species, the upstream signaling molecules of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Astrocytes have long been proposed to guide angiogenesis, because they form a reticular network that provides a substrate for migrating endothelial cells. However, the factors that control the vascularization of the immature retina and the therapeutic mechanism of estrogen in early ROP remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the role of G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), an estrogen receptor distributed in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), in protecting retinal astrocytes under hyperoxia and the association with ERS. The results showed that GPER was widely expressed in retinal astrocytes. GPER activation increases cell viability, decreases apoptosis, and autophagy of retinal astrocytes, decreases inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate receptor activity, and increases Ca2+ concentration in ER of astrocytes under hyperoxia. GPER blockade reversed all of these changes. Together, our findings indicate that GPER can protect the survival of retinal astrocytes by inhibiting ERS under hyperoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shaanxi Province and Xi'an First Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pei Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shaanxi Province and Xi'an First Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiamin Meng
- Bioengineering Specialty, School of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongbing Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shaanxi Province and Xi'an First Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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133
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Liu QP, Zhang X, Qin YZ, Yi JL, Li JM. Acetylcholinesterase inhibition ameliorates retinal neovascularization and glial activation in oxygen-induced retinopathy. Int J Ophthalmol 2020; 13:1361-1367. [PMID: 32953572 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2020.09.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate whether inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by donepezil ameliorate aberrant retinal neovascularization (RNV) and abnormal glial activation in oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). METHODS A mouse model of RNV was induced in postnatal day 7 (P7) mice by exposure to 75% oxygen. Donepezil was administrated to P12 mice by intraperitoneal injection. Expression and localization of AChE in mouse retinas were determined by immunofluorescence. RNV was evaluated by paraffin sectioning and hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Activation of retinal Müller glial cells were examined by immunoblot of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). rMC-1, a retinal Müller cell line, was used for in vitro study. Expression of hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined by Western-blot analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or immunostaining. RESULTS Aberrant RNV and glial activation was observed after OIR. Of note, retinal AChE was mainly expressed by retinal Müller glial cells and markedly increased in OIR mice. Systemic administration of donepezil significantly reduced RNV and abnormal glial activation in mice with OIR. Moreover, ischemia-induced HIF-1α accumulation and VEGF upregulation in OIR mouse retinas and cultured rMC-1 were significantly inhibited by donepezil intervention. CONCLUSION AchE is implicated in RNV with OIR. Inhibition of AChE by donepeizl is likely to be a potential therapeutic approach for retinal neovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Ping Liu
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ya-Zhou Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jing-Lin Yi
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jing-Ming Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
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134
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Yeh RY, Nischal KK, LeDuc P, Cagan J. Written in Blood: Applying Shape Grammars to Retinal Vasculatures. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:36. [PMID: 32908799 PMCID: PMC7453052 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.9.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Blood vessel networks within the retina are crucial for maintaining tissue perfusion and therefore good vision. Their complexity and unique patterns often require a steep learning curve for humans to identify trends and changes in the shape and topology of the networks, even though there exists much information important to identifying disease within them. Methods Through image processing, the vasculature is isolated from other features of the fundus images, forcing the viewer to focus on the complex vascular feature. This article explores an approach using a grammar based on shape to describe retinal vasculature and to generate realistic and increasingly unrealistic artificial vascular networks that are then reviewed by ophthalmologists via digital survey. The ophthalmologists are asked whether these artificial vascular networks appeared realistic or unrealistic. Results With only three rules (initiate, branch, and curve), the grammar accomplishes these goals. Networks are generated by adding noise to rule parameters present in existing networks. Via the survey of synthetic networks generated with different noise parameters, a correlation between noise in the branch rule and realistic association is revealed. Conclusions By creating a language to describe retinal vasculature, this article allows for the potential of new insight into such an important but less understood feature of the retina, which in the future may play a role in diagnosing or helping to predict types of ocular disease. Translational Relevance Applying shape grammar to describe retinal vasculature permits new understanding, which in turn provides the potential for new diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Y Yeh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ken K Nischal
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus and Adult Motility, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children's Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Philip LeDuc
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan Cagan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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135
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Oxidative Stress and Vascular Dysfunction in the Retina: Therapeutic Strategies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080761. [PMID: 32824523 PMCID: PMC7465265 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular (AMD) degeneration, are associated with elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. ROS are important intracellular signaling molecules that regulate numerous physiological actions, including vascular reactivity and neuron function. However, excessive ROS formation has been linked to vascular endothelial dysfunction, neuron degeneration, and inflammation in the retina. ROS can directly modify cellular molecules and impair their function. Moreover, ROS can stimulate the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) causing inflammation and cell death. However, there are various compounds with direct or indirect antioxidant activity that have been used to reduce ROS accumulation in animal models and humans. In this review, we report on the physiological and pathophysiological role of ROS in the retina with a special focus on the vascular system. Moreover, we present therapeutic approaches for individual retinal diseases targeting retinal signaling pathways involving ROS.
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Preliminary study of ultra-widefield peripheral retinal angiographic patterns in children and its association to the perinatal condition. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13602. [PMID: 32788722 PMCID: PMC7423607 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70677-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This preliminary study analyzed the peripheral retinal vascular pattern in children, using ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography, and its association with perinatal conditions. Retrospective review was conducted examining the fluorescein angiographic findings of children with amblyopia (January 2017 to December 2018). We categorized the peripheral vascular patterns into two groups: loop and branching patterns. We investigated differences in these patterns, according to the perinatal condition. Thirty children (9.27 ± 3.41 years old; 47.67% male) were included. An equal number of children had the loop or branching pattern (15:15). The gestational age (GA) in the loop group was significantly shorter than the branching group (32.92 ± 5.62 vs. 36.67 ± 5.63 weeks, p = 0.04). The birth weight of the loop group was significantly lower than the branching group (2.00 ± 1.03 vs. 2.72 ± 0.93 kg, p = 0.03). Gender, age, delivery-type, and visual acuity, were not different between the groups. Lower birth weight and shorter GA were observed in children with the loop pattern. The difference in peripheral retinal vascular patterns, according to birth weight and GA, might be due to the development of immature retinal vessels at birth.
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137
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Scharf J, Freund KB, Sadda S, Sarraf D. Paracentral acute middle maculopathy and the organization of the retinal capillary plexuses. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 81:100884. [PMID: 32783959 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The retinal capillary vasculature serves the formidable role of supplying the metabolically active inner and middle retina. In the parafoveal region, the retinal capillary plexuses (RCP) are organized in a system of three capillary layers of varying retinal depths: the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), intermediate capillary plexus (ICP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). While the dynamic flow through these plexuses is complex and not completely understood, current research points to a hybrid model that includes both parallel and in series components in which blood flows in a predominantly serial direction between the superficial vascular complex (SVC) and deep vascular complex (DVC). Each capillary plexus autoregulates independently, so that under most conditions the retinal vasculature supplies adequate blood flow and oxygen saturation at varying depths despite diverse environmental stressors. When the flow in the deep vascular complex (i.e. ICP and DCP) fails, an ischemic lesion referred to as Paracentral Acute Middle Maculopathy (PAMM) can be identified. PAMM is an optical coherence tomography (OCT) finding defined by the presence of a hyperreflective band at the level of the inner nuclear layer (INL) that indicates INL infarction caused by globally impaired perfusion through the retinal capillary system leading to hypoperfusion of the DVC or specifically the DCP. Patients present with an acute onset paracentral scotoma and typically experience a permanent visual defect. Lesions can be caused by a diverse set of local retinal vascular diseases and systemic disorders. PAMM is a manifestation of the retinal ischemic cascade in which the mildest forms of ischemia develop at the venular end of the DCP, i.e. perivenular PAMM, while more severe forms progress horizontally to diffusely involve the INL, and the most severe forms progress vertically to infarct the inner retina. Management is targeted toward the identification and treatment of related vasculopathic and systemic risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Scharf
- Retina Disorders and Ophthalmic Genetics, Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - K Bailey Freund
- Retina Department, Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - SriniVas Sadda
- Doheny Image Reading Center, Doheny Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Affiliated, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - David Sarraf
- Retina Disorders and Ophthalmic Genetics, Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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138
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Duggan E, Smith CA, Hooper ML, Chauhan BC. Colocalization of optical coherence tomography angiography with histology in the mouse retina. Microvasc Res 2020; 132:104055. [PMID: 32777249 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.104055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) allows in vivo, non-invasive, functional imaging of retinal perfusion. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of OCT-A in visualizing the complete retinal vasculature by comparing in vivo OCT-A images to matched ex vivo retinal tissue in mice. Adult female C57BL/6 mice were imaged to obtain OCT-A images of the superficial vascular complex, intermediate capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus. Z-stack fluorescence images of whole-mounted retinas, labeled for vascular endothelial cells by anti-isolectin immunohistochemistry and FITC-dextran perfusion, were generated. The OCT-A and fluorescence images were manually colocalized and vessel length measured for each of the techniques. Mean vessel length among all plexuses showed less than 13% difference between OCT-A and lectin immunohistochemistry and less than 4% difference between OCT-A and FITC-dextran perfusion. The strength of the correlation between OCT-A and lectin immunohistochemistry ranged from 0.46-0.95, while that between OCT-A and FITC-perfusion ranged from 0.67-0.88. OCT-A visualized retinal vasculature in vivo to a similar extent in matched ex vivo histology images. Our results show that OCT-A is a reliable method for acquiring in vivo images of retinal perfusion in mice, with the ability to differentiate each vascular plexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyse Duggan
- Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Corey A Smith
- Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Michele L Hooper
- Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Balwantray C Chauhan
- Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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139
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Yazdankhah M, Shang P, Ghosh S, Hose S, Liu H, Weiss J, Fitting CS, Bhutto IA, Zigler JS, Qian J, Sahel JA, Sinha D, Stepicheva NA. Role of glia in optic nerve. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 81:100886. [PMID: 32771538 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glial cells are critically important for maintenance of neuronal activity in the central nervous system (CNS), including the optic nerve (ON). However, the ON has several unique characteristics, such as an extremely high myelination level of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons throughout the length of the nerve (with virtually all fibers myelinated by 7 months of age in humans), lack of synapses and very narrow geometry. Moreover, the optic nerve head (ONH) - a region where the RGC axons exit the eye - represents an interesting area that is morphologically distinct in different species. In many cases of multiple sclerosis (demyelinating disease of the CNS) vision problems are the first manifestation of the disease, suggesting that RGCs and/or glia in the ON are more sensitive to pathological conditions than cells in other parts of the CNS. Here, we summarize current knowledge on glial organization and function in the ON, focusing on glial support of RGCs. We cover both well-established concepts on the important role of glial cells in ON health and new findings, including novel insights into mechanisms of remyelination, microglia/NG2 cell-cell interaction, astrocyte reactivity and the regulation of reactive astrogliosis by mitochondrial fragmentation in microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Yazdankhah
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Peng Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sayan Ghosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stacey Hose
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Haitao Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Weiss
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher S Fitting
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Imran A Bhutto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Samuel Zigler
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jiang Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Debasish Sinha
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Nadezda A Stepicheva
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Yao MD, Jiang Q, Ma Y, Liu C, Zhu CY, Sun YN, Shan K, Ge HM, Zhang QY, Zhang HY, Yao J, Li XM, Yan B. Role of METTL3-Dependent N 6-Methyladenosine mRNA Modification in the Promotion of Angiogenesis. Mol Ther 2020; 28:2191-2202. [PMID: 32755566 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations occur in many physiological and pathological processes. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent modification in eukaryotic mRNAs. However, the role of m6A modification in pathological angiogenesis remains elusive. In this study, we showed that the level of m6A modification was significantly upregulated in endothelial cells and mouse retinas following hypoxic stress, which was caused by increased METTL3 levels. METTL3 silencing or METTL3 overexpression altered endothelial cell viability, proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro. METTL3 knockout in vivo decreased avascular area and pathological neovascular tufts in an oxygen-induced retinopathy model and inhibited alkali burn-induced corneal neovascularization. Mechanistically, METTL3 exerted its angiogenic role by regulating Wnt signaling through the m6A modification of target genes (e.g., LRP6 and dishevelled 1 [DVL1]). METTL3 enhanced the translation of LRP6 and DVL1 in an YTH m6A RNA-binding protein 1 (YTHDF1)-dependent manner. Collectively, this study suggests that METTL3-mediated m6A modification is an important hypoxic stress-response mechanism. The targeting of m6A through its writer enzyme METTL3 is a promising strategy for the treatment of angiogenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Di Yao
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuan-Yan Zhu
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya-Nan Sun
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Kun Shan
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hui-Min Ge
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiu-Yang Zhang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui-Ying Zhang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Yao
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiu-Miao Li
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Biao Yan
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200031, China.
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141
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Gau D, Vignaud L, Allen A, Guo Z, Sahel J, Boone D, Koes D, Guillonneau X, Roy P. Disruption of profilin1 function suppresses developmental and pathological retinal neovascularization. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:9618-9629. [PMID: 32444495 PMCID: PMC7363146 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.012613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis-mediated neovascularization in the eye is usually associated with visual complications. Pathological angiogenesis is particularly prominent in the retina in the settings of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, in which it can lead to permanent loss of vision. In this study, by bioinformatics analyses, we provide evidence for elevated expression of actin-binding protein PFN1 (profilin1) in the retinal vascular endothelial cells (VECs) of individuals with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, findings further supported by gene expression analyses for PFN1 in experimentally induced abnormal retinal neovascularization in an oxygen-induced retinopathy murine model. We observed that in a conditional knockout mouse model, postnatal deletion of the Pfn1 gene in VECs leads to defects in tip cell activity (marked by impaired filopodial protrusions) and reduced vascular sprouting, resulting in hypovascularization during developmental angiogenesis in the retina. Consistent with these findings, an investigative small molecule compound targeting the PFN1-actin interaction reduced random motility, proliferation, and cord morphogenesis of retinal VECs in vitro and experimentally induced abnormal retinal neovascularization in vivo In summary, these findings provide the first direct in vivo evidence that PFN1 is required for formation of actin-based protrusive structures and developmental angiogenesis in the retina. The proof of concept of susceptibility of abnormal angiogenesis to small molecule intervention of PFN1-actin interaction reported here lays a conceptual foundation for targeting PFN1 as a possible strategy in angiogenesis-dependent retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gau
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lucile Vignaud
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Abigail Allen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zhijian Guo
- Department of Nephrology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jose Sahel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris, France,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David Boone
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David Koes
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Partha Roy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA .,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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142
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Deng Y, Li S, Li S, Yu C, Huang D, Chen H, Yin X. CircPDE4B inhibits retinal pathological angiogenesis via promoting degradation of HIF-1α though targeting miR-181c. IUBMB Life 2020; 72:1920-1929. [PMID: 32584521 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity is a major cause of childhood blindness worldwide. Hence, exploring the proper treatment methods is a must in tacking this disease. qRT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the expression of genes and proteins, respectively. The proliferation of human retinal vascular endothelial cells (HRECs) was ensured by MTT assay. The luciferase activity was measured through luciferase assay. The inverted phase-contrast light microscope was used to observe the formation of a vascular tube. In the present study, our data demonstrated that circPDE4B was downregulated, while hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and VEGFA were upregulated in the retinopathy of prematurity model in vitro and in vivo. CircPDE4B increasing remarkably inhibited the expression of HIF-1α and VEGFA in hypoxia-induced HRECs and subsequent repressed cell proliferation and pathological angiogenesis. We further found that miR-181c suppressed the expression of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), while circPDE4B could promote VHL expression via binding to miR-181c. Finally, our results revealed that circPDE4B inhibited the expression of VEGFA and pathological angiogenesis via facilitating VHL-mediated ubiquitin degradation of HIF-1α. In conclusion, circPDE4B suppressed the expression of VEGFA and pathological angiogenesis via promoting VHL-mediated ubiquitin degradation of HIF-1α through binding to miR-181c. Our study indicated that circPDE4B might be an effective therapeutic target of retinopathy of prematurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Deng
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shurong Li
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shuanglian Li
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chunhong Yu
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongping Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaolong Yin
- Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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143
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The role of semaphorins in small vessels of the eye and brain. Pharmacol Res 2020; 160:105044. [PMID: 32590102 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Small vessel diseases, such as ischemic retinopathy and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), are increasingly recognized in patients with diabetes, dementia and cerebrovascular disease. The mechanisms of small vessel diseases are poorly understood, but the latest studies suggest a role for semaphorins. Initially identified as axon guidance cues, semaphorins are mainly studied in neuronal morphogenesis, neural circuit assembly, and synapse assembly and refinement. In recent years, semaphorins have been found to play important roles in regulating vascular growth and development and in many pathophysiological processes, including atherosclerosis, angiogenesis after stroke and retinopathy. Growing evidence indicates that semaphorins affect the occurrence, perfusion and regression of both the macrovasculature and microvasculature by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, barrier function and inflammatory response of endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and pericytes. In this review, we concentrate on the regulatory effects of semaphorins on the cell components of the vessel wall and their potential roles in microvascular diseases, especially in the retina and cerebral small vessel. Finally, we discuss potential molecular approaches in targeting semaphorins as therapies for microvascular disorders in the eye and brain.
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144
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Yazdankhah M, Shang P, Ghosh S, Bhutto IA, Stepicheva N, Grebe R, Hose S, Weiss J, Luo T, Mishra S, Riazuddin SA, Ghosh A, Handa JT, Lutty GA, Zigler JS, Sinha D. Modulating EGFR-MTORC1-autophagy as a potential therapy for persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) disease. Autophagy 2020; 16:1130-1142. [PMID: 31462148 PMCID: PMC7469569 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2019.1660545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) is a human disease that results from failure of the fetal vasculature to regress normally. The regulatory mechanisms responsible for fetal vascular regression remain obscure, as does the underlying cause of regression failure. However, there are a few animal models that mimic the clinical manifestations of human PFV, which can be used to study different aspects of the disease. One such model is the Nuc1 rat model that arose from a spontaneous mutation in the Cryba1 (crystallin, beta 1) gene and exhibits complete failure of the hyaloid vasculature to regress. Our studies with the Nuc1 rat indicate that macroautophagy/autophagy, a process in eukaryotic cells for degrading dysfunctional components to ensure cellular homeostasis, is severely impaired in Nuc1 ocular astrocytes. Further, we show that CRYBA1 interacts with EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and that loss of this interaction in Nuc1 astrocytes increases EGFR levels. Moreover, our data also show a reduction in EGFR degradation in Nuc1 astrocytes compared to control cells that leads to over-activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase complex 1 (MTORC1) pathway. The impaired EGFR-MTORC1-autophagy signaling in Nuc1 astrocytes triggers abnormal proliferation and migration. The abnormally migrating astrocytes ensheath the hyaloid artery, contributing to the pathogenesis of PFV in Nuc1, by adversely affecting the vascular remodeling processes essential to regression of the fetal vasculature. Herein, we demonstrate in vivo that gefitinib (EGFR inhibitor) can rescue the PFV phenotype in Nuc1 and may serve as a novel therapy for PFV disease by modulating the EGFR-MTORC1-autophagy pathway. ABBREVIATIONS ACTB: actin, beta; CCND3: cyclin 3; CDK6: cyclin-dependent kinase 6; CHQ: chloroquine; COL4A1: collagen, type IV, alpha 1; CRYBA1: crystallin, beta A1; DAPI: 4'6-diamino-2-phenylindole; EGFR: epidermal growth factor receptor; GAPDH: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GFAP: glial fibrillary growth factor; KDR: kinase insert domain protein receptor; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; MKI67: antigen identified by monoclonal antibody Ki 67; MTORC1: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase complex 1; PARP: poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase family; PCNA: proliferating cell nuclear antigen; PFV: persistent fetal vasculature; PHPV: persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous; RPE: retinal pigmented epithelium; RPS6: ribosomal protein S6; RPS6KB1: ribosomal protein S6 kinase, polypeptide 1; SQSTM1/p62: sequestome 1; TUBB: tubulin, beta; VCL: vinculin; VEGFA: vascular endothelial growth factor A; WT: wild type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Yazdankhah
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Peng Shang
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sayan Ghosh
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Imran A. Bhutto
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nadezda Stepicheva
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rhonda Grebe
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stacey Hose
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Weiss
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tianqi Luo
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Subrata Mishra
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - S. Amer Riazuddin
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | - James T. Handa
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gerard A. Lutty
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J. Samuel Zigler
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Debasish Sinha
- Glia Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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145
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Alves CH, Fernandes R, Santiago AR, Ambrósio AF. Microglia Contribution to the Regulation of the Retinal and Choroidal Vasculature in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051217. [PMID: 32423062 PMCID: PMC7290930 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is a highly metabolically active tissue with high-level consumption of nutrients and oxygen. This high metabolic demand requires a properly developed and maintained vascular system. The retina is nourished by two systems: the central retinal artery that supplies the inner retina and the choriocapillaris that supplies the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Pathological neovascularization, characterized by endothelial cell proliferation and new vessel formation, is a common hallmark in several retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A limited number of studies have suggested that microglia, the resident immune cells of the retina, have an important role not only in the pathology but also in the formation and physiology of the retinal vascular system. Here, we review the current knowledge on microglial interaction with the retinal vascular system under physiological and pathological conditions. To do so, we first highlight the role of microglial cells in the formation and maintenance of the retinal vasculature system. Thereafter, we discuss the molecular signaling mechanisms through which microglial cells contribute to the alterations in retinal and choroidal vasculatures and to the neovascularization in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Henrique Alves
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Fernandes
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Raquel Santiago
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Francisco Ambrósio
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-239-480093
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146
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Markitantova YV, Simirskii VN. Role of the Redox System in Initiation of a Regenerative Response of Neural Eye Tissues in Vertebrates. Russ J Dev Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s106236042001004x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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147
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Okabe K, Fukada H, Tai-Nagara I, Ando T, Honda T, Nakajima K, Takeda N, Fong GH, Ema M, Kubota Y. Neuron-derived VEGF contributes to cortical and hippocampal development independently of VEGFR1/2-mediated neurotrophism. Dev Biol 2020; 459:65-71. [PMID: 31790655 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent mitogen critical for angiogenesis and organogenesis. Deletion or inhibition of VEGF during development not only profoundly suppresses vascular outgrowth, but significantly affects the development and function of various organs. In the brain, VEGF is thought to not only promote vascular growth, but also directly act on neurons as a neurotrophic factor by activating VEGF receptors. In the present study, we demonstrated that deletion of VEGF using hGfap-Cre line, which recombines genes specifically in cortical and hippocampal neurons, severely impaired brain organization and vascularization of these regions. The mutant mice had motor deficits, with lethality around the time of weaning. Multiple reporter lines indicated that VEGF was highly expressed in neurons, but that its cognate receptors, VEGFR1 and 2 were exclusive to endothelial cells in the brain. In accordance, mice lacking neuronal VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 did not exhibit neuronal deformities or lethality. Taken together, our data suggest that neuron-derived VEGF contributes to cortical and hippocampal development likely through angiogenesis independently of direct neurotrophic effects mediated by VEGFR1 and 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Okabe
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan; Department of Plastic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Hugh Fukada
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Ikue Tai-Nagara
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Ando
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan; Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takao Honda
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazunori Nakajima
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Norihiko Takeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Guo-Hua Fong
- Center for Vascular Biology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Masatsugu Ema
- Department of Stem Cells and Human Disease Models, Research Center for Animal Life Science, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta, Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga, 520-2192, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kubota
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan.
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148
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Guan JT, Li XX, Peng DW, Zhang WM, Qu J, Lu F, D'Amato RJ, Chi ZL. MicroRNA-18a-5p Administration Suppresses Retinal Neovascularization by Targeting FGF1 and HIF1A. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:276. [PMID: 32210827 PMCID: PMC7076186 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathologic ocular neovascularization commonly results in visual impairment or even blindness in numerous fundus diseases, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). MicroRNAs regulate angiogenesis through modulating target genes and disease progression, making them a new class of targets for drug discovery. In this study, we investigated the potential role of miR-18a-5p in retinal neovascularization using a mouse model of oxygen-induced proliferative retinopathy (OIR). We found that miR-18a-5p was highly expressed in the retina of pups as well as retinal endothelial cells, and was consistently down-regulated during retinal development. On the other hand, miR-18a-5p was increased significantly during pathologic neovascularization in the retinas of OIR mice. Moreover, intravitreal administration of miRNA mimic, agomiR-18a-5p, significantly suppressed retinal neovascularization in OIR models. Accordingly, agomir-18a-5p markedly suppressed human retinal microvascular endothelial cell (HRMEC) function including proliferation, migration, and tube formation ability. Additionally, we demonstrated that miR-18a-5p directly down-regulated known vascular growth factors, fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1A), as the target genes. In conclusion, miR-18a-5p may be a useful drug target for pathologic ocular neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Tian Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xin-Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - De-Wei Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wen-Meng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jia Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Fan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Robert J D'Amato
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Zai-Long Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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149
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Zhu Q, Xing X, Wang M, Zhu M, Ma L, Yuan Y, Song E. Characterization of the Three Distinct Retinal Capillary Plexuses Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Myopic Eyes. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:8. [PMID: 32818096 PMCID: PMC7396166 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.4.8] [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: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To segment and quantify three distinct retinal capillary plexuses using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in myopic eyes. Methods We analyzed 96 eyes from 62 subjects with myopia (27.76 ± 7.05 years of age) and evaluated 30 normal eyes from 15 subjects (28.33 ± 3.13 years of age) for controls. En face OCTA images generated by AngioPlex (Carl Zeiss; Oberkochen, Germany) were manually segmented by the progressive matching method into superficial, middle, and deep capillary plexuses (SCPs, MCPs, and DCPs, respectively). Estimated positions for each plexus relative to the reference line were calculated. After strict artifact removal and magnification correction, vessel density (VD) and skeleton density (SD) analyses were performed on each capillary plexus. Results Myopic eyes were divided into three groups according to their degree of myopia. We defined the relative estimated positions of the MCP outer boundary to the retinal pigment epithelium fit layer as MCP = –89.317 – 0.178 (central retinal thickness) – 0.580 (ganglion cell inner plexiform thickness); the DCP outer boundary was 38.48 ± 6.24 µm below the inner plexiform layer. VDs were significantly higher in the super-high myopia group than in the control and moderate myopia groups for the DCP (all P < 0.05). SDs in the SCPs were significantly lower in the high myopia and super-high myopia groups than in the control groups (all P < 0.001). Conclusions With progressive matching, we segmented three capillary plexuses and defined the relative estimated positions of each capillary plexus to the reference line in myopic eyes. The VD of the DCP increased for more myopic eyes. Translational Relevance Our study provides a visual method for OCTA image vascular segmentation for myopic eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiujian Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | | | - Mengyu Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Manhui Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lie Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - You Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - E Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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150
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Cai S, Yang Q, Cao Y, Li Y, Liu J, Wang J, Zhang X, Liu L, Li X, Zhang Y. PF4 antagonizes retinal neovascularization via inhibiting PRAS40 phosphorylation in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165604. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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