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Riaz S, Sethna S, Duncan T, Naeem MA, Redmond TM, Riazuddin S, Riazuddin S, Carvalho LS, Ahmed ZM. Dual AAV-based PCDH15 gene therapy achieves sustained rescue of visual function in a mouse model of Usher syndrome 1F. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3490-3501. [PMID: 37864333 PMCID: PMC10727994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the PCDH15 gene, encoding protocadherin-15, are among the leading causes of Usher syndrome type 1 (USH1F), and account for up to 12% USH1 cases worldwide. A founder truncating variant of PCDH15 has a ∼2% carrier frequency in Ashkenazi Jews accounting for nearly 60% of their USH1 cases. Although cochlear implants can restore hearing perception in USH1 patients, presently there are no effective treatments for the vision loss due to retinitis pigmentosa. We established a founder allele-specific Pcdh15 knockin mouse model as a platform to ascertain therapeutic strategies. Using a dual-vector approach to circumvent the size limitation of adeno-associated virus, we observed robust expression of exogenous PCDH15 in the retinae of Pcdh15KI mice, sustained recovery of electroretinogram amplitudes and key retinoid oxime, substantially improved light-dependent translocation of phototransduction proteins, and enhanced levels of retinal pigment epithelium-derived enzymes. Thus, our data raise hope and pave the way for future gene therapy trials in USH1F subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehar Riaz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54500, Pakistan
| | - Saumil Sethna
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Todd Duncan
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Muhammad A Naeem
- National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54500, Pakistan
| | - T Michael Redmond
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sheikh Riazuddin
- Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Centre, Allama Iqbal Medical Research, University of Health Sciences, Lahore 54500, Pakistan
| | - Saima Riazuddin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; Retinal Genomics and Therapy Group, Lions Eye Institute Ltd, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Zubair M Ahmed
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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2
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Feathers KL, Jia L, Khan NW, Smith AJ, Ma JX, Ali RR, Thompson DA. Gene Supplementation in Mice Heterozygous for the D477G RPE65 Variant Implicated in Autosomal Dominant Retinitis Pigmentosa. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:639-648. [PMID: 37014074 PMCID: PMC10354729 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of AAV-RPE65 vectors for gene supplementation has achieved spectacular success as a treatment for individuals with autosomal recessive retinal disease caused by biallelic mutations in the visual cycle gene RPE65. However, the efficacy of this approach in treating autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) associated with a monoallelic mutation encoding a rare D477G RPE65 variant has not been studied. Although lacking a severe phenotype, we now find that knock-in mice heterozygous for D477G RPE65 (D477G KI mice) can be used to evaluate outcomes of AAV-RPE65 gene supplementation. Total RPE65 protein levels, which are decreased in heterozygous D477G KI mice, were doubled following subretinal delivery of rAAV2/5.hRPE65p.hRPE65. In addition, rates of recovery of the chromophore 11-cis retinal after bleaching were significantly increased in eyes that received AAV-RPE65, consistent with increased RPE65 isomerase activity. While dark-adapted chromophore levels and a-wave amplitudes were not affected, b-wave recovery rates were modestly improved. The present findings establish that gene supplementation enhances 11-cis retinal synthesis in heterozygous D477G KI mice and complement previous studies showing that chromophore therapy results in improved vision in individuals with adRP associated with D477G RPE65.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kecia L. Feathers
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lin Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Naheed W. Khan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexander J. Smith
- Centre for Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jian-Xing Ma
- Department of Biochemistry, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robin R. Ali
- Centre for Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Debra A. Thompson
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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3
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Wu W, Takahashi Y, Ma X, Moiseyev G, Ma JX. Environmental Light Has an Essential Effect on the Disease Expression in a Dominant RPE65 Mutation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1415:415-419. [PMID: 37440066 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-27681-1_61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The retina pigmented epithelium 65 kDa protein (RPE65) is an essential enzyme in the visual cycle that regenerates the 11-cis-retinal chromophore obligatory for vision. Mutations in RPE65 are associated with blinding diseases. D477G (C.1430G > A) is the only known RPE65 variant to cause autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). Previously, we reported that the heterozygous D477G knock-in (WT/KI) mice exposed to dim light intensity demonstrated delayed chromophore regeneration rates and slowed recovery of photoreceptor sensitivity following photobleaching. However, visual function and retinal architecture were indistinguishable from the wild-type (WT) mice. In this study, when maintained under the physiological day-light intensity (2 K lux), the WT/KI heterozygous mice displayed retina degeneration and reduced electroretinography (ERG) amplitude, recapitulating that observed in human patients. Our findings indicated the importance of the light environment in the mechanism of RPE65 D477G pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Wu
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yusuke Takahashi
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Gennadiy Moiseyev
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Jian-Xing Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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4
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Cho EH, Park JE, Lee T, Ha K, Ki CS. Carrier frequency and incidence estimation of RPE65-associated inherited retinal diseases in East Asian population by population database-based analysis. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:409. [PMID: 36352427 PMCID: PMC9644481 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02566-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are clinically and genetically heterogenous disorders leading to visual impairment and blindness. Because gene therapy for RPE65-associated IRDs was recently approved, it is necessary to predict the carrier frequency and prevalence for RPE65-associated IRDs. This study aimed to analyze the carrier frequency and expected incidence of RPE65-associated IRDs in East Asians and Koreans using exome data from the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) and the Korean Reference Genome Database (KRGDB). METHODS We analyzed 9,197 exomes for East Asian populations from gnomAD comprising 1,909 Korean and 1,722 Korean genomes from KRGDB. All identified RPE65 variants were classified according to the 2015 American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology guidelines. RESULTS The total carrier frequencies of East Asians and Koreans from both gnomAD and KRGDB were 0.10% (11/10,919) and 0.06% (2/3,631), respectively. The estimated incidence of RPE65-associated IRDs was 1/3,941,308 in East Asians and 1/13,184,161 in Koreans. CONCLUSION This study identified carrier frequencies of RPE65-associated IRDs in East Asians and Koreans using gnomAD and KRGDB. We confirmed that the carrier frequency of RPE65-associated IRDs patients was low in Koreans among all East Asian populations, and the incidence was also predicted to be lower than in other East Asian populations. The variant spectrum of RPE65 gene in East Asian and Korean populations differed greatly from those of other ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Hye Cho
- grid.264381.a0000 0001 2181 989XDepartment of Laboratory Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Eun Park
- grid.412145.70000 0004 0647 3212Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, 153, Gyeongchun-ro, 11923 Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do Republic of Korea
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Bhardwaj A, Yadav A, Yadav M, Tanwar M. Genetic dissection of non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa. Indian J Ophthalmol 2022; 70:2355-2385. [PMID: 35791117 PMCID: PMC9426071 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_46_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) belongs to a group of pigmentary retinopathies. It is the most common form of inherited retinal dystrophy, characterized by progressive degradation of photoreceptors that leads to nyctalopia, and ultimately, complete vision loss. RP is distinguished by the continuous retinal degeneration that progresses from the mid-periphery to the central and peripheral retina. RP was first described and named by Franciscus Cornelius Donders in the year 1857. It is one of the leading causes of bilateral blindness in adults, with an incidence of 1 in 3000 people worldwide. In this review, we are going to focus on the genetic heterogeneity of this disease, which is provided by various inheritance patterns, numerosity of variations and inter-/intra-familial variations based upon penetrance and expressivity. Although over 90 genes have been identified in RP patients, the genetic cause of approximately 50% of RP cases remains unknown. Heterogeneity of RP makes it an extremely complicated ocular impairment. It is so complicated that it is known as “fever of unknown origin”. For prognosis and proper management of the disease, it is necessary to understand its genetic heterogeneity so that each phenotype related to the various genetic variations could be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarti Bhardwaj
- Department of Genetics, M. D. University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Anshu Yadav
- Department of Genetics, M. D. University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Manoj Yadav
- Department of Genetics, M. D. University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Mukesh Tanwar
- Department of Genetics, M. D. University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
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6
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Wu W, Takahashi Y, Shin HY, Ma X, Moiseyev G, Ma JX. The interplay of environmental luminance and genetics in the retinal dystrophy induced by the dominant RPE65 mutation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2115202119. [PMID: 35271391 PMCID: PMC8931212 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115202119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceIn humans, genetic mutations in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) 65 are associated with blinding diseases, for which there is no effective therapy alleviating progressive retinal degeneration in affected patients. Our findings uncovered that the increased free opsin caused by enhancing the ambient light intensity increased retinal activation, and when compounded with the RPE visual cycle dysfunction caused by the heterozygous D477G mutation and aggregation, led to the onset of retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Wu
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Yusuke Takahashi
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Henry Younghwa Shin
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Gennadiy Moiseyev
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Jian-Xing Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
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7
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Sethna S, Zein WM, Riaz S, Giese AP, Schultz JM, Duncan T, Hufnagel RB, Brewer CC, Griffith AJ, Redmond TM, Riazuddin S, Friedman TB, Ahmed ZM. Proposed therapy, developed in a Pcdh15-deficient mouse, for progressive loss of vision in human Usher syndrome. eLife 2021; 10:67361. [PMID: 34751129 PMCID: PMC8577840 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome type I (USH1) is characterized by deafness, vestibular areflexia, and progressive retinal degeneration. The protein-truncating p.Arg245* founder variant of PCDH15 (USH1F) has an ~2% carrier frequency amongst Ashkenazi Jews accounts for ~60% of their USH1 cases. Here, longitudinal phenotyping in 13 USH1F individuals revealed progressive retinal degeneration, leading to severe vision loss with macular atrophy by the sixth decade. Half of the affected individuals were legally blind by their mid-50s. The mouse Pcdh15R250X variant is equivalent to human p.Arg245*. Homozygous Pcdh15R250X mice also have visual deficits and aberrant light-dependent translocation of the phototransduction cascade proteins, arrestin, and transducin. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-specific retinoid cycle proteins, RPE65 and CRALBP, were also reduced in Pcdh15R250X mice, indicating a dual role for protocadherin-15 in photoreceptors and RPE. Exogenous 9-cis retinal improved ERG amplitudes in Pcdh15R250X mice, suggesting a basis for a clinical trial of FDA-approved retinoids to preserve vision in USH1F patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumil Sethna
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Wadih M Zein
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Sehar Riaz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States.,National Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Arnaud Pj Giese
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Julie M Schultz
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Todd Duncan
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Robert B Hufnagel
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Carmen C Brewer
- Otolaryngology Branch, National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Bethesda, United States
| | - Andrew J Griffith
- Otolaryngology Branch, National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Bethesda, United States
| | - T Michael Redmond
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Saima Riazuddin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Thomas B Friedman
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Zubair M Ahmed
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States.,Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States.,Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
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8
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Kiser PD. Retinal pigment epithelium 65 kDa protein (RPE65): An update. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 88:101013. [PMID: 34607013 PMCID: PMC8975950 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrate vision critically depends on an 11-cis-retinoid renewal system known as the visual cycle. At the heart of this metabolic pathway is an enzyme known as retinal pigment epithelium 65 kDa protein (RPE65), which catalyzes an unusual, possibly biochemically unique, reaction consisting of a coupled all-trans-retinyl ester hydrolysis and alkene geometric isomerization to produce 11-cis-retinol. Early work on this isomerohydrolase demonstrated its membership to the carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase superfamily and its essentiality for 11-cis-retinal production in the vertebrate retina. Three independent studies published in 2005 established RPE65 as the actual isomerohydrolase instead of a retinoid-binding protein as previously believed. Since the last devoted review of RPE65 enzymology appeared in this journal, major advances have been made in a number of areas including our understanding of the mechanistic details of RPE65 isomerohydrolase activity, its phylogenetic origins, the relationship of its membrane binding affinity to its catalytic activity, its role in visual chromophore production for rods and cones, its modulation by macromolecules and small molecules, and the involvement of RPE65 mutations in the development of retinal diseases. In this article, I will review these areas of progress with the goal of integrating results from the varied experimental approaches to provide a comprehensive picture of RPE65 biochemistry. Key outstanding questions that may prove to be fruitful future research pursuits will also be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip D Kiser
- Research Service, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, Long Beach, CA, 90822, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Center for Translational Vision Research, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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9
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Doucette LP, Noel NCL, Zhai Y, Xu M, Caluseriu O, Hoang SC, Radziwon AJ, MacDonald IM. Whole exome sequencing reveals putatively novel associations in retinopathies and drusen formation. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 29:1171-1185. [PMID: 33776059 PMCID: PMC8385108 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00872-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) affect 1 in 3000 individuals worldwide and are genetically heterogeneous, with over 270 identified genes and loci; however, there are still many identified disorders with no current genetic etiology. Whole exome sequencing (WES) provides a hypothesis-free first examination of IRD patients in either a clinical or research setting to identify the genetic cause of disease. We present a study of IRD in ten families from Alberta, Canada, through the lens of novel gene discovery. We identify the genetic etiology of IRDs in three of the families to be variants in known disease-associated genes, previously missed by clinical investigations. In addition, we identify two potentially novel associations: LRP1 in early-onset drusen formation and UBE2U in a multi-system condition presenting with retinoschisis, cataracts, learning disabilities, and developmental delay. We also describe interesting results in our unsolved cases to provide further information to other investigators of these blinding conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance P Doucette
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nicole C L Noel
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Yi Zhai
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Manlong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Oana Caluseriu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Stephanie C Hoang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Alina J Radziwon
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ian M MacDonald
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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10
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Maguire AM, Bennett J, Aleman EM, Leroy BP, Aleman TS. Clinical Perspective: Treating RPE65-Associated Retinal Dystrophy. Mol Ther 2021; 29:442-463. [PMID: 33278565 PMCID: PMC7854308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Until recently, there was no approved treatment for a retinal degenerative disease. Subretinal injection of a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivering the normal copy of the human RPE65 cDNA led to reversal of blindness first in animal models and then in humans. This led to the first US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved gene therapy product for a genetic disease, voretigene neparvovec-rzyl (Luxturna). Luxturna was then approved by the European Medicines Association and is now available in the US through Spark Therapeutics and worldwide through Novartis. Not only has treatment with Luxturna changed the lives of people previously destined to live a life of blindness, but it has fueled interest in developing additional gene therapy reagents targeting numerous other genetic forms of inherited retinal disease. This review describes many of the considerations for administration of Luxturna and describes how lessons from experience with Luxturna could lead to additional gene-based treatments of blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert M Maguire
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics (CAROT), Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jean Bennett
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics (CAROT), Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elena M Aleman
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics (CAROT), Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bart P Leroy
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics (CAROT), Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tomas S Aleman
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics (CAROT), Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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11
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Pappalardo J, Heath Jeffery RC, Thompson JA, Chelva E, Pham Q, Constable IJ, McLaren TL, Lamey TM, De Roach JN, Chen FK. A novel phenotype in a family with autosomal dominant retinal dystrophy due to c.1430A > G in retinoid isomerohydrolase (RPE65) and c.37C > T in bestrophin 1 (BEST1). Doc Ophthalmol 2021; 143:61-73. [PMID: 33512609 DOI: 10.1007/s10633-021-09819-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The c.1430A > G (Asp477Gly) variant in RPE65 has been reported in Irish and Scottish families with either an autosomal dominant retinal dystrophy (adRD) that resembles choroideremia, a vitelliform macular dystrophy or an isolated macular atrophy. We report novel features on multimodal imaging and the natural history of a family harbouring this variant in combination with the BEST1 c.37C > T (Arg13Cys) variant. METHODS Members of a family with an adRD were examined clinically to ascertain phenotype and underwent genetic testing. Multimodal imaging included widefield colour fundus photography, quantitative autofluorescence (qAF) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Electrophysiology and microperimetry were also performed. RESULTS Vision loss was attributed to foveal atrophy in the proband and choroidal neovascularisation and a vitello-eruptive lesion in one affected son. Peripheral retinal white dots corresponding to subretinal deposits were seen in three patients. The median qAF8 values in the proband (I:1) were low (40 and 101 in OD and OS) at age 79. Similarly, the qAF8 values for the middle son (II:2) were also low (100 and 87 in ODS and OS) at age 60. Electrophysiology showed disproportionate reduction in Arden ratio prior to the gradual loss of full-field responses. Microperimetry demonstrated an enlarging scotoma in the proband. CONCLUSIONS The coexistence of the pathogenic BEST1 c.37C > T variant may modify clinical features observed in RPE65 adRD. This study expands our understanding of RPE65 adRD as a retinoid cycle disorder supported by the reduced qAF, fine white retinal dots and corresponding subretinal deposits on OCT in affected members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanita Pappalardo
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Rachael C Heath Jeffery
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Thompson
- Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Enid Chelva
- Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Quang Pham
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Ian J Constable
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Terri L McLaren
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tina M Lamey
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John N De Roach
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA, Australia. .,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
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12
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Splicing mutations in inherited retinal diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100874
expr 921883647 + 833887994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
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13
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Properties and Therapeutic Implications of an Enigmatic D477G RPE65 Variant Associated with Autosomal Dominant Retinitis Pigmentosa. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11121420. [PMID: 33261050 PMCID: PMC7760593 DOI: 10.3390/genes11121420] [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: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RPE65 isomerase, expressed in the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), is an enzymatic component of the retinoid cycle, converting all-trans retinyl ester into 11-cis retinol, and it is essential for vision, because it replenishes the photon capturing 11-cis retinal. To date, almost 200 loss-of-function mutations have been identified within the RPE65 gene causing inherited retinal dystrophies, most notably Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (arRP), which are both severe and early onset disease entities. We previously reported a mutation, D477G, co-segregating with the disease in a late-onset form of autosomal dominant RP (adRP) with choroidal involvement; uniquely, it is the only RPE65 variant to be described with a dominant component. Families or individuals with this variant have been encountered in five countries, and a number of subsequent studies have been reported in which the molecular biological and physiological properties of the variant have been studied in further detail, including observations of possible novel functions in addition to reduced RPE65 enzymatic activity. With regard to the latter, a human phase 1b proof-of-concept study has recently been reported in which aspects of remaining vision were improved for up to one year in four of five patients with advanced disease receiving a single one-week oral dose of 9-cis retinaldehyde, which is the first report showing efficacy and safety of an oral therapy for a dominant form of RP. Here, we review data accrued from published studies investigating molecular mechanisms of this unique variant and include hitherto unpublished material on the clinical spectrum of disease encountered in patients with the D477G variant, which, in many cases bears striking similarities to choroideremia.
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14
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Splicing mutations in inherited retinal diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 80:100874. [PMID: 32553897 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mutations which induce aberrant transcript splicing represent a distinct class of disease-causing genetic variants in retinal disease genes. Such mutations may either weaken or erase regular splice sites or create novel splice sites which alter exon recognition. While mutations affecting the canonical GU-AG dinucleotides at the splice donor and splice acceptor site are highly predictive to cause a splicing defect, other variants in the vicinity of the canonical splice sites or those affecting additional cis-acting regulatory sequences within exons or introns are much more difficult to assess or even to recognize and require additional experimental validation. Splicing mutations are unique in that the actual outcome for the transcript (e.g. exon skipping, pseudoexon inclusion, intron retention) and the encoded protein can be quite different depending on the individual mutation. In this article, we present an overview on the current knowledge about and impact of splicing mutations in inherited retinal diseases. We introduce the most common sub-classes of splicing mutations including examples from our own work and others and discuss current strategies for the identification and validation of splicing mutations, as well as therapeutic approaches, open questions, and future perspectives in this field of research.
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15
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Kenna PF, Humphries MM, Kiang AS, Brabet P, Guillou L, Ozaki E, Campbell M, Farrar GJ, Koenekoop R, Humphries P. Advanced late-onset retinitis pigmentosa with dominant-acting D477G RPE65 mutation is responsive to oral synthetic retinoid therapy. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2020; 5:e000462. [PMID: 32426524 PMCID: PMC7228561 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2020-000462] [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: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives No therapeutic interventions are currently available for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). An RPE65 Asp477Gly transition associates with late-onset adRP, reduced RPE65 enzymatic activity being one feature associated with this dominant variant. Our objective: to assess whether in a proof-of-concept study, oral synthetic 9 cis-retinyl acetate therapy improves vision in such advanced disease. Methods and analysis A phase 1b proof-of-concept clinical trial was conducted involving five patients with advanced disease, aged 41-68 years. Goldmann visual fields (GVF) and visual acuities (VA) were assessed for 6-12 months after 7-day treatment, patients receiving consecutive oral doses (40 mg/m2) of 9-cis-retinyl acetate, a synthetic retinoid replacement. Results Pathological effects of D477G variant were preliminarily assessed by electroretinography in mice expressing AAV-delivered D477G RPE65, by MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxyme- thoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium] assays on RPE viability and enzyme activity in cultured cells. In addition to a mild dominant effect reflected in reduced electroretinographics in mice, and reduced cellular function in vitro, D477G exhibited reduced enzymatic RPE65 activity in vitro. In patients, significant improvements were observed in GVF from baseline ranging from 70% to 200% in three of five subjects aged 67-68 years, with largest improvements at 7-10 months. Of two GVF non-responders, one had significant visual acuity improvement (5-15 letters) from baseline after 6 months. Conclusion Families with D477G variant have been identified in Ireland, the UK, France, the USA and Canada. Effects of single 7-day oral retinoid supplementation lasted at least 6 months, possibly giving visual benefit throughout remaining life in patients with advanced disease, where gene therapy is unlikely to prove beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F Kenna
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.,The Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marian M Humphries
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anna-Sophia Kiang
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Philippe Brabet
- Neurosciences, Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
| | - Laurent Guillou
- Neurosciences, Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
| | - Ema Ozaki
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G Jane Farrar
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Robert Koenekoop
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Human Genetics, and Paediatric Surgery, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pete Humphries
- Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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16
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Application of CRISPR Tools for Variant Interpretation and Disease Modeling in Inherited Retinal Dystrophies. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11050473. [PMID: 32349249 PMCID: PMC7290804 DOI: 10.3390/genes11050473] [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: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies are an assorted group of rare diseases that collectively account for the major cause of visual impairment of genetic origin worldwide. Besides clinically, these vision loss disorders present a high genetic and allelic heterogeneity. To date, over 250 genes have been associated to retinal dystrophies with reported causative variants of every nature (nonsense, missense, frameshift, splice-site, large rearrangements, and so forth). Except for a fistful of mutations, most of them are private and affect one or few families, making it a challenge to ratify the newly identified candidate genes or the pathogenicity of dubious variants in disease-associated loci. A recurrent option involves altering the gene in in vitro or in vivo systems to contrast the resulting phenotype and molecular imprint. To validate specific mutations, the process must rely on simulating the precise genetic change, which, until recently, proved to be a difficult endeavor. The rise of the CRISPR/Cas9 technology and its adaptation for genetic engineering now offers a resourceful suite of tools to alleviate the process of functional studies. Here we review the implementation of these RNA-programmable Cas9 nucleases in culture-based and animal models to elucidate the role of novel genes and variants in retinal dystrophies.
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17
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Jauregui R, Cho A, Oh JK, Tanaka AJ, Sparrow JR, Tsang SH. Phenotypic expansion of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa associated with the D477G mutation in RPE65. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2020; 6:a004952. [PMID: 32014860 PMCID: PMC6996519 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a004952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene RPE65 (OMIM: 180069) are recessively inherited and known to cause Leber congenital amaurosis. Recently, the mutation D477G in RPE65 has been identified as a cause of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Variable expressivity of this disease has been reported, as carrier individuals can present with mild, nonpenetrant, or, most commonly, a severe chorioretinal phenotype that resembles choroideremia. We report the case of a 57-yr-old male who presented to our clinic with nyctalopia and decreasing visual acuity for 1 yr. Dilated fundus examination revealed retinal atrophy and peripheral mottling of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). SW-AF revealed patchy hypoautofluorescence throughout the posterior pole with separate lacunae-like areas in the macula of severe RPE atrophy along with foveal sparing. Full-field electroretinogram suggested a rod-cone dystrophy. Whole-exome sequencing revealed the heterozygous mutation c.1430A > G (p.D477G) in the RPE65 gene. This phenotype of peripheral RPE mottling and severe macular lacunae-like atrophy has not been previously reported with RPE65 autosomal dominant RP, supporting the variable expressivity of the disease and expanding the known phenotypic presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Jauregui
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Ahra Cho
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Jin Kyun Oh
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, New York, New York 10032, USA
- State University of New York at Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
| | - Akemi J Tanaka
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Janet R Sparrow
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, New York, New York 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA
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18
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Whelan L, Dockery A, Wynne N, Zhu J, Stephenson K, Silvestri G, Turner J, O’Byrne JJ, Carrigan M, Humphries P, Keegan D, Kenna PF, Farrar GJ. Findings from a Genotyping Study of Over 1000 People with Inherited Retinal Disorders in Ireland. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E105. [PMID: 31963381 PMCID: PMC7016747 DOI: 10.3390/genes11010105] [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: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Irish national registry for inherited retinal degenerations (Target 5000) is a clinical and scientific program to identify individuals in Ireland with inherited retinal disorders and to attempt to ascertain the genetic cause underlying the disease pathology. Potential participants first undergo a clinical assessment, which includes clinical history and analysis with multimodal retinal imaging, electrophysiology, and visual field testing. If suitable for recruitment, a sample is taken and used for genetic analysis. Genetic analysis is conducted by use of a retinal gene panel target capture sequencing approach. With over 1000 participants from 710 pedigrees now screened, there is a positive candidate variant detection rate of approximately 70% (495/710). Where an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern is observed, an additional 9% (64/710) of probands have tested positive for a single candidate variant. Many novel variants have also been detected as part of this endeavor. The target capture approach is an economic and effective means of screening patients with inherited retinal disorders. Despite the advances in sequencing technology and the ever-decreasing associated processing costs, target capture remains an attractive option as the data produced is easily processed, analyzed, and stored compared to more comprehensive methods. However, with decreasing costs of whole genome and whole exome sequencing, the focus will likely move towards these methods for more comprehensive data generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Whelan
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
| | - Adrian Dockery
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
| | - Niamh Wynne
- The Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, D02 XK51 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Julia Zhu
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (J.Z.); (K.S.); (J.T.); (J.J.O.); (D.K.)
| | - Kirk Stephenson
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (J.Z.); (K.S.); (J.T.); (J.J.O.); (D.K.)
| | - Giuliana Silvestri
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast BT12 6BA, Northern Ireland, UK;
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT7 1NN, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Jacqueline Turner
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (J.Z.); (K.S.); (J.T.); (J.J.O.); (D.K.)
| | - James J. O’Byrne
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (J.Z.); (K.S.); (J.T.); (J.J.O.); (D.K.)
| | - Matthew Carrigan
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
| | - Peter Humphries
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
| | - David Keegan
- Clinical Genetics Centre for Ophthalmology, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (J.Z.); (K.S.); (J.T.); (J.J.O.); (D.K.)
| | - Paul F. Kenna
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
- The Research Foundation, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, D02 XK51 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - G. Jane Farrar
- The School of Genetics & Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; (A.D.); (M.C.); (P.H.); (P.F.K.); (G.J.F.)
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19
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Postnikova O, Poliakov E, Golestaneh N, Rogozin IB, Redmond TM. Stable Intronic Sequences and Exon Skipping Events in the Human RPE65 Gene: Analysis of Expression in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells and Cell Culture Models. Front Genet 2019; 10:634. [PMID: 31379919 PMCID: PMC6658614 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is much interest in intronic sequence-containing long non-coding RNAs and the role of intronic transcription in regulation of cellular metabolism and fate. Several stable intronic sequence RNAs (sisRNAs) were recently implicated in regulation of parental genes. To investigate transcription from introns of the RPE65 gene, we analyzed RNA-seq and Nanopore sequencing data from different cell models of human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and native bovine RPE. We discovered putative stable poly-adenylated transcripts with sequences corresponding to intronic regions of the RPE65 gene in the cytoplasm of RPE cells. These stable intronic sequences could be important for RPE65 transcription, splicing or translation. We also analyzed alternative splicing events in RPE65. Frequent exon skipping events involving exons 2, 3, and 7 were detected. The rate of these events was much higher in human RPE cell cultures compared with native RPE , consistent with lack of translation of RPE65 mRNA in cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Postnikova
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell & Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Eugenia Poliakov
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell & Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Nady Golestaneh
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology, Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Igor B Rogozin
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - T Michael Redmond
- Laboratory of Retinal Cell & Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
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