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Lakshmanan Y, Wong FSY, So KF, Chan HHL. Lycium barbarum glycopeptide promotes neuroprotection in ET-1 mediated retinal ganglion cell degeneration. J Transl Med 2024; 22:727. [PMID: 39103918 PMCID: PMC11302070 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05526-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular dysregulation is one of the major risk factors of glaucoma, and endothelin-1 (ET-1) may have a role in the pathogenesis of vascular-related glaucoma. Fruit extract from Lycium Barbarum (LB) exhibits anti-ageing and multitarget mechanisms in protecting retinal ganglion cells (RGC) in various animal models. To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of LB glycoproteins (LbGP) in ET-1 induced RGC degeneration, LbGP was applied under pre- and posttreatment conditions to an ET-1 mouse model. Retina structural and functional outcomes were characterised using clinical-based techniques. METHODS Adult C57BL/6 mice were randomly allocated into four experimental groups, namely vehicle control (n = 9), LbGP-Pretreatment (n = 8), LbGP-Posttreatment (day 1) (n = 8) and LbGP-Posttreatment (day 5) (n = 7). Oral administration of LbGP 1 mg/Kg or PBS for vehicle control was given once daily. Pre- and posttreatment (day 1 or 5) were commenced at 1 week before and 1 or 5 days after intravitreal injections, respectively, and were continued until postinjection day 28. Effects of treatment on retinal structure and functions were evaluated using optical coherence tomography (OCT), doppler OCT and electroretinogram measurements at baseline, post-injection days 10 and 28. RGC survival was evaluated by using RBPMS immunostaining on retinal wholemounts. RESULTS ET-1 injection in vehicle control induced transient reductions in arterial flow and retinal functions, leading to significant RNFL thinning and RGC loss at day 28. Although ET-1 induced a transient loss in blood flow or retinal functions in all LbGP groups, LbGP treatments facilitated better restoration of retinal flow and retinal functions as compared with the vehicle control. Also, all three LbGP treatment groups (i.e. pre- and posttreatments from days 1 or 5) significantly preserved thRNFL thickness and RGC densities. No significant difference in protective effects was observed among the three LbGP treatment groups. CONCLUSION LbGP demonstrated neuroprotective effects in a mouse model of ET-1 induced RGC degeneration, with treatment applied either as a pretreatment, immediate or delayed posttreatment. LbGP treatment promoted a better restoration of retinal blood flow, and protected the RNFL, RGC density and retinal functions. This study showed the translational potential of LB as complementary treatment for glaucoma management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamunadevi Lakshmanan
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Francisca Siu Yin Wong
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau (GHM) Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Henry Ho-Lung Chan
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), 17W Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China.
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
- Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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Bugara K, Pacwa A, Smedowski A. Molecular pathways in experimental glaucoma models. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1363170. [PMID: 38562304 PMCID: PMC10982327 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1363170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex and progressive disease that primarily affects the optic nerve axons, leading to irreversible vision loss. Although the exact molecular mechanisms underlying glaucoma pathogenesis are not fully understood, it is believed that except increased intraocular pressure, a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of the disease. Animal models have been widely used in the study of glaucoma, allowing researchers to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the disease and test potential treatments. Several molecular pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of glaucoma, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and excitotoxic-induced neurodegeneration. This review summarizes the most important knowledge about molecular mechanisms involved in the glaucoma development. Although much research has been done to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying this disease, there is still much to be learned to develop effective treatments and prevent vision loss in those affected by glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Bugara
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Anna Pacwa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- GlaucoTech Co., Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Smedowski
- GlaucoTech Co., Katowice, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Professor K. Gibinski University Clinical Center, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Morya AK, Ramesh PV, Kaur K, Gurnani B, Heda A, Bhatia K, Sinha A. Diabetes more than retinopathy, it’s effect on the anterior segment of eye. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:3736-3749. [PMID: 37383113 PMCID: PMC10294174 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i16.3736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the chronic metabolic noncommunicable diseases that has attained worldwide epidemics. It threatens healthy life around the globe, with mild-to-severe secondary complications and leads to significant illness including nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and macrovascular abnormalities including peripheral vasculopathy, and ischaemic heart disease. Research into diabetic retinopathy (DR), which affects one-third of persons with diabetes, has made considerable strides in recent years. In addition, it can lead to several anterior segment complications such as glaucoma, cataract, cornea, conjunctiva, lacrimal glands and other ocular surface diseases. Uncontrolled DM also caused gradual damage to corneal nerves and epithelial cells, which raises the likelihood of anterior segment diseases including corneal ulcers, dry eye disease, and chronic epithelial abnormalities. Although DR and other associated ocular complications are well-known, the complexity of its aetiology and diagnosis makes therapeutic intervention challenging. Strict glycaemic control, early detection and regular screening, and meticulous management is the key to halting the progression of the disease. In this review manuscript, we aim to provide an in-depth understanding of the broad spectrum of diabetic complications in the anterior segment of the ocular tissues and illustrate the progression of diabetes and its pathophysiology, epidemiology, and prospective therapeutic targets. This first such review article will highlight the role of diagnosing and treating patients with a plethora of anterior segment diseases associated with diabetes, which are often neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Kumar Morya
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad 508126, Telangana, India
| | - Prasanna Venkatesh Ramesh
- Glaucoma and Research, Mahathma Eye Hospital Private Limited, Tennur, Trichy 620001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kirandeep Kaur
- Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Sadguru Netra Chikitsalaya, Sadguru Seva Sangh Trust, Janaki-Kund, Chitrakoot 485334, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Bharat Gurnani
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Sadguru Netra Chikitsalaya, Sadguru Seva Sangh Trust, Janaki- Kund, Chitrakoot 485334, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Aarti Heda
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Institute of Ophthalmology, Pune 411000, Maharashtra, India
| | - Karan Bhatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Manaktala Eye and Maternity Home, Meerut 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Aprajita Sinha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Worcestershire Acute Hospital, Worcestershire 01601, United Kingdom
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Lambuk L, Mohd Lazaldin MA, Ahmad S, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Mediated Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: A Review of Current State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875662. [PMID: 35668928 PMCID: PMC9163364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are neurons of the visual system that are responsible for transmitting signals from the retina to the brain via the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by apoptotic loss of RGCs and degeneration of optic nerve fibers. Risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure and vascular dysregulation trigger the injury that culminates in RGC apoptosis. In the event of injury, the survival of RGCs is facilitated by neurotrophic factors (NTFs), the most widely studied of which is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its production is regulated locally in the retina, but transport of BDNF retrogradely from the brain to retina is also crucial. Not only that the interruption of this retrograde transport has been detected in the early stages of glaucoma, but significantly low levels of BDNF have also been detected in the sera and ocular fluids of glaucoma patients, supporting the notion that neurotrophic deprivation is a likely mechanism of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Moreover, exogenous NTF including BDNF administration was shown reduce neuronal loss in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases, indicating the possibility that exogenous BDNF may be a treatment option in glaucoma. Current literature provides an extensive insight not only into the sources, transport, and target sites of BDNF but also the intracellular signaling pathways, other pathways that influence BDNF signaling and a wide range of its functions. In this review, the authors discuss the neuroprotective role of BDNF in promoting the survival of RGCs and its possible application as a therapeutic tool to meet the challenges in glaucoma management. We also highlight the possibility of using BDNF as a biomarker in neurodegenerative disease such as glaucoma. Further we discuss the challenges and future strategies to explore the utility of BDNF in the management of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | | | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- TardigradeNano LLC, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
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Cáceres-Vélez PR, Hui F, Hercus J, Bui B, Jusuf PR. Restoring the oxidative balance in age-related diseases - An approach in glaucoma. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 75:101572. [PMID: 35065274 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As human life expectancy increases, age-related health issues including neurodegenerative diseases continue to rise. Regardless of genetic or environmental factors, many neurodegenerative conditions share common pathological mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, a hallmark of many age-related health burdens. In this review, we describe oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucoma, an age-related neurodegenerative eye disease affecting 80 million people worldwide. We consider therapeutic approaches used to counteract oxidative stress in glaucoma, including untapped treatment options such as novel plant-derived antioxidant compounds that can reduce oxidative stress and prevent neuronal loss. We summarize the current pre-clinical models and clinical work exploring the therapeutic potential of a range of candidate plant-derived antioxidant compounds. Finally, we explore advances in drug delivery systems, particular those employing nanotechnology-based carriers which hold significant promise as a carrier for antioxidants to treat age-related disease, thus reviewing the key current state of all of the aspects required towards translation.
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Cha YW, Kim ST. Serum and aqueous humor levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 41:3869-3875. [PMID: 34533687 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-01959-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was designed to compare the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the serum and aqueous humor (AH) of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). METHODS This prospective, observational study consists of 30 patients with POAG, 30 patients with NTG, and 30 healthy controls. The serum and AH BDNF levels were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS BDNF levels in serum and AH were markedly lower in the glaucoma groups (POAG and NTG) than in the control group (p < 0.05). When comparing the NTG and POAG groups, the average serum BDNF level was significantly lower in the NTG group than in the POAG group (p < 0.05). The difference in the mean BDNF levels in AH between the POAG and NTG groups was not statistically significant. (p = 0.538). CONCLUSION We confirmed that serum BDNF levels were lower in patients with NTG than in those with POAG. BDNF could be a causative systemic biomarker in NTG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wan Cha
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Chosun University, 365 Philmun-daero, Dong-gu, Gwangju, 61453, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Taeck Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Chosun University, 365 Philmun-daero, Dong-gu, Gwangju, 61453, Republic of Korea.
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Lin B, Zhang X, Xu X. Nerve Growth Factor Protects Retinal Ganglion Cells Related to Inhibiting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress by Inhibiting IRE1-JNK-CHOP Signaling Pathway. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:1341-1346. [PMID: 33793349 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1872651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Under various physiological conditions, endoplasmic reticulum stress can induce apoptotic cell death, leading to brain and retinal neuronal cell death, but the relations of ER stress-induced apoptosis and the nerve growth factor's therapeutic effect in Glaucoma optic neuropathy still unclear. METHODS An endoplasmic reticulum stress model was established in ganglion cells using TG, the endoplasmic reticulum stress inducer. MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to detect the protective effect of NGF on retinal ganglion cells. Western blot was used to detect apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2, Bad and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related proteins GRP78, IRE1, JNK and CHOP. RESULTS MTT assay and flow cytometry showed NGF can protect the apoptosis of ganglion cells. Western blot analysis showed the level of pro-apoptotic protein Bad was decreased and anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was increased after NGF treatment. Endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced proteins GRP78, IRE1, JNK and CHOP are counter- acted by NGF. CONCLUSION NGF protects retinal ganglion cells related to inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress by inhibiting IRE1-JNK-CHOP signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaobi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuegu Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Wójcik-Gryciuk A, Gajewska-Woźniak O, Kordecka K, Boguszewski PM, Waleszczyk W, Skup M. Neuroprotection of Retinal Ganglion Cells with AAV2-BDNF Pretreatment Restoring Normal TrkB Receptor Protein Levels in Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176262. [PMID: 32872441 PMCID: PMC7504711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intravitreal delivery of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by injection of recombinant protein or by gene therapy can alleviate retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss after optic nerve injury (ONI) or laser-induced ocular hypertension (OHT). In models of glaucoma, BDNF therapy can delay or halt RGCs loss, but this protection is time-limited. The decreased efficacy of BDNF supplementation has been in part attributed to BDNF TrkB receptor downregulation. However, whether BDNF overexpression causes TrkB downregulation, impairing long-term BDNF signaling in the retina, has not been conclusively proven. After ONI or OHT, when increased retinal BDNF was detected, a concomitant increase, no change or a decrease in TrkB was reported. We examined quantitatively the retinal concentrations of the TrkB protein in relation to BDNF, in a course of adeno-associated viral vector gene therapy (AAV2-BDNF), using a microbead trabecular occlusion model of glaucoma. We show that unilateral glaucoma, with intraocular pressure ( IOP) increased for five weeks, leads to a bilateral decrease of BDNF in the retina at six weeks, accompanied by up to four-fold TrkB upregulation, while a moderate BDNF overexpression in a glaucomatous eye triggers changes that restore normal TrkB concentrations, driving signaling towards long-term RGCs neuroprotection. We conclude that for glaucoma therapy, the careful selection of the appropriate BDNF concentration is the main factor securing the long-term responsiveness of RGCs and the maintenance of normal TrkB levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wójcik-Gryciuk
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Vision, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.-G.); (K.K.); (W.W.)
- Mediq Clinic, 05-120 Legionowo, Poland
| | - Olga Gajewska-Woźniak
- Group of Restorative Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Kordecka
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Vision, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.-G.); (K.K.); (W.W.)
| | - Paweł M. Boguszewski
- Laboratory of Behavioral Methods, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Wioletta Waleszczyk
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Vision, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.-G.); (K.K.); (W.W.)
| | - Małgorzata Skup
- Group of Restorative Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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Li Q, Jin R, Zhang S, Sun X, Wu J. Group II metabotropic glutamate receptor agonist promotes retinal ganglion cell survival by reducing neuronal excitotoxicity in a rat chronic ocular hypertension model. Neuropharmacology 2020; 170:108016. [PMID: 32101763 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma, the second leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is characterized by the selective death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR II) activation has been linked to RGC survival, however, the mechanism by which it promotes neuronal survival remains poorly defined. In the present work, we show that extracellular application of LY341495, an mGluR II antagonist could increase the RGC firing frequency, suggesting that activation of mGluR II by endogenously released glutamate could modulate RGC excitability. LY354740, an mGluR II agonist, significantly decreased RGC excitability and the reduced presynaptic excitatory inputs and post-synaptic Ca2+-permeable currents mediated the LY354740-induced effects. By using a well-characterized in vivo male Sprague-Dawley rat glaucoma model, we further demonstrate that in the early stage of experimental glaucoma, the expression of mGluR II dimer-formed protein was significantly reduced, and pre-activation of mGluR II by intravitreal injection of LY354740 before establishment of the glaucoma model could effectively reduce excitatory inputs, thereby reversing hyperexcitability induced by elevated intraocular pressure. Furthermore, LY354740 could increase the expression level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the glaucomatous retinas, further protecting RGCs. Our study indicates that the abnormal expression of mGluR II may accelerate RGC apoptosis in glaucoma, and demonstrates that mGluR II agonist LY354740 can be used as a novel method to counter RGC apoptosis in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ruiri Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Songjiang Central Hospital, Shanghai, 201600, China
| | - Shenghai Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Jihong Wu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Wang H, Song X, Li M, Wang X, Tao Y, Xiya X, Liu H, Zhao Y, Chang D, Sha Q. The role of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in activated microglia of rats with chronic high intraocular pressure and vitro scratch injury-induced microglia. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 83:106395. [PMID: 32199351 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a kind of blind-causing disease with structural damages of optic nerve and defection of visual field. It is believed that the death of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) is a consequential event of over-reactive immune orchestral cells such as microglia. Previous evidences in animal and clinical studies show the innate immunity plays a pivotal role in neuro-inflammation of glaucoma. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is expressed on microglia and mediates many neuroinflammatory diseases. We aimed to explore the impacts of high intraocular pressure (IOP) on rat microglia in retina and the regulation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in scratched microglia cells. In our study, we successfully established chronic high IOP rat model by episcleral vein cauterization (EVC) which behaved like the chronic glaucoma. Besides, we set up an in vitro scratch-induced injury model in rat microglia cells. We found the level of activated microglia cells were significantly increased in the retina of chronic high IOP groups. Moreover, the inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway suppressed the expression of TLR4 protein and mRNA levels of P50, IL-6 and TNF-α. Our original study provided a theoretical basis on targeting TLR4/NF-κB to suppress pro-inflammatory factors releasing in activated microglia and it might be a good treatment target to prevent glaucoma from progressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjun Wang
- Department of Medical, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyuan Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingzhe Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuefei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Tao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiamu Xiya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yini Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Chang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Sha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
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Saragovi HU, Galan A, Levin LA. Neuroprotection: Pro-survival and Anti-neurotoxic Mechanisms as Therapeutic Strategies in Neurodegeneration. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:231. [PMID: 31244606 PMCID: PMC6563757 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins (NTs) are a subset of the neurotrophic factor family. These growth factors were originally named based on the nerve growth functional assays used to identify them. NTs act as paracrine or autocrine factors for cells expressing NT receptors. The receptors and their function have been studied primarily in cells of the nervous system, but are also present in the cardiovascular, endocrine, and immune systems, as well as in many neoplastic cells. The signals activated by NTs can be varied, depending on cellular stage and context, healthy or disease states, and depending on whether the specific NTs and their receptors are expressed in the relevant cells. In the healthy central and peripheral adult nervous systems, NTs drive neuronal survival, phenotype, synaptic maintenance, and function. Deficiencies of the NT/NT receptor axis are causally associated with disease onset or disease progression. Paradoxically, NTs can also drive synaptic loss and neuronal death. In the embryonic stage this activity is essential for proper developmental pruning of the nervous system, but in the adult it can be associated with neurodegenerative disease. Given their key role in neuronal survival and death, NTs and NT receptors have long been considered therapeutic targets to achieve neuroprotection. The first neuroprotective approaches consisted of enhancing neuronal survival signals using NTs. Later strategies selectively targeted receptors to induce survival signals specifically, while avoiding activation of death signals. Recently, the concept of selectively targeting receptors to reduce neuronal death signals has emerged. Here, we review the rationale of each neuroprotective strategy with respect to the complex cell biology and pharmacology of each target receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horacio Uri Saragovi
- Lady Davis Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alba Galan
- Lady Davis Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Leonard A Levin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Montreal Neurological Institute, Mcgill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Inanc Tekin M, Sekeroglu MA, Demirtas C, Tekin K, Doguizi S, Bayraktar S, Yilmazbas P. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients With Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Its Correlation With Retinal Layer Thicknesses. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:2833-2840. [PMID: 30025135 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in serum and aqueous humor (AH) and to assess the relationship between BDNF levels and retinal layer thicknesses in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods A total of 48 AMD patients (AMD group) that was composed of twenty-three nonexudative and 25 exudative patients and 26 control subjects (control group) were included in the study. Serum and AH BDNF levels were assessed by ELISA method. Retinal layer thicknesses were calculated by segmentation analysis of optical coherence tomography. Results The mean BDNF levels in AH were found to be significantly lower in both the nonexudative and exudative AMD groups than in the control group (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001, respectively). Optical coherence tomography segmentation analysis revealed that the total average retina pigment epithelium thickness was statistically significantly thinner in the nonexudative AMD group compared with the exudative AMD and control groups (P = 0.001 and P = 0.040, respectively). The total average outer nuclear layer (ONL) thicknesses of nonexudative and exudative AMD cases were reduced compared to control group; however, the decrement was statistically significant only in the nonexudative AMD group (P = 0.009). In the correlation analysis of BDNF levels with retinal layer thicknesses, statistically significant correlations exist between BDNF levels of AH with ONL thicknesses in cases of AMD and with retina pigment epithelium thicknesses in the nonexudative AMD group. Conclusions BDNF concentrations in AH decreased in the AMD group and this decrease correlates with outer retinal layer thicknesses. Low BDNF levels detected in the AMD group may be insufficient to protect the photoreceptors, resulting in thinning of ONL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Canan Demirtas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kemal Tekin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kars State Hospital, Kars, Turkey
| | - Sibel Doguizi
- Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Serdar Bayraktar
- Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pelin Yilmazbas
- Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Zhang L, Li X, Shen Y, Lin X, Wu M. Transdifferentiation effects and related mechanisms of nerve growth factor and internal limiting membrane on Müller cells. Exp Eye Res 2019; 180:146-154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Ali Shariati M, Kumar V, Yang T, Chakraborty C, Barres BA, Longo FM, Liao YJ. A Small Molecule TrkB Neurotrophin Receptor Partial Agonist as Possible Treatment for Experimental Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy. Curr Eye Res 2018; 43:1489-1499. [PMID: 30273053 PMCID: PMC10710940 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1508726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and activation of its high affinity receptor tropomyosin kinase (Trk) B promote retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) survival following injury. In this study, we tested the effects of LM22A-4, a small molecule TrkB receptor-specific partial agonist, on RGC survival in vitro and in experimental nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), the most common acute optic neuropathy in those older than 50 years. METHODS We assessed drug effects on immunopanned, cultured RGCs and calculated RGC survival and assessed TrkB receptor activation by mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase translocation. To assess effects in vivo, we induced murine AION and treated the animals with one intravitreal injection and three-week systemic treatment. We measured drug effects using serial spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and quantified retinal Brn3A+ RGC density three weeks after ischemia. RESULTS In vitro, LM22A-4 significantly increased the survival of cultured RGCs at day 2 (95% CI control: 8.4-13.6; LM22A-4: 23.7-30.3; BDNF: 24.3-29.9; P ≤ 0.0001), similar to the effect of the endogenous TrkB receptor ligand BDNF. There was also significant nuclear and cytoplasmic translocation of MAP kinase (95% CI control: 0.9-6.8; LM22A-4: 38.8-84.4; BDNF: 64.0-93.0; P = 0.0002), a known downstream event of TrkB receptor activation. Following AION, LM22A-4 treatment led to significant preservation of the ganglion cell complex (95% CI: AION-PBS: 66.8-70.7%; AION-LM22A-4: 70.0-73.1; P = 0.03) and total retinal thickness (95% CI: AION-PBS: 185-196%; AION-LM22A-4: 195-203; P = 0.002) as measured by OCT compared with non-treated eyes. There was also significant rescue of the Brn3A+ RGC density on morphometric analysis of whole mount retinae (95% CI control: 2360-2629; AION-PBS: 1647-2008 cells/mm2; AION-LM22A-4: 1958-2216 cells/mm2; P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS TrkB receptor partial agonist LM22A-4 promoted survival of cultured RGCs in vitro by TrkB receptor activation, and treatment in vivo led to increased survival of RGCs after optic nerve ischemia, providing support that LM22A-4 may be effective therapy to treat ischemic optic neuropathy. ABBREVIATIONS AION: anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, BDNF: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, GCC: ganglion cell complex, MAP: mitogen-activated protein, OCT: spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, OD: right eye, ON: optic nerve, ONH: optic nerve head, OS: left eye, RGC: retinal ganglion cell; Trk: tropomyosin kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Shariati
- a Departments of Ophthalmology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Varun Kumar
- a Departments of Ophthalmology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Tao Yang
- b Neurobiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | | | - Ben Anthony Barres
- b Neurobiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Frank Michael Longo
- b Neurobiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- a Departments of Ophthalmology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
- b Neurobiology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
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15
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Pietrucha-Dutczak M, Amadio M, Govoni S, Lewin-Kowalik J, Smedowski A. The Role of Endogenous Neuroprotective Mechanisms in the Prevention of Retinal Ganglion Cells Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:834. [PMID: 30524222 PMCID: PMC6262299 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal neurons are not able to undergo spontaneous regeneration in response to damage. A variety of stressors, i.e., UV radiation, high temperature, ischemia, allergens, and others, induce reactive oxygen species production, resulting in consecutive alteration of stress-response gene expression and finally can lead to cell apoptosis. Neurons have developed their own endogenous cellular protective systems. Some of them are preventing cell death and others are allowing functional recovery after injury. The high efficiency of these mechanisms is crucial for cell survival. In this review we focus on the contribution of the most recently studied endogenous neuroprotective factors involved in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival, among which, neurotrophic factors and their signaling pathways, processes regulating the redox status, and different pathways regulating cell death are the most important. Additionally, we summarize currently ongoing clinical trials for therapies for RGC degeneration and optic neuropathies, including glaucoma. Knowledge of the endogenous cellular protective mechanisms may help in the development of effective therapies and potential novel therapeutic targets in order to achieve progress in the treatment of retinal and optic nerve diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Pietrucha-Dutczak
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Marialaura Amadio
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Joanna Lewin-Kowalik
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Smedowski
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Shpak AA, Guekht AB, Druzhkova TA, Kozlova KI, Gulyaeva NV. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Age-related Cataract. Curr Eye Res 2017; 43:224-231. [DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2017.1396617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A Shpak
- Department for Clinical and Functional Diagnostics, The S. Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Alla B Guekht
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry of the Healthcare Department of Moscow, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Tatiana A Druzhkova
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry of the Healthcare Department of Moscow, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Ksenia I Kozlova
- Department for Clinical and Functional Diagnostics, The S. Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Natalia V Gulyaeva
- Department of Functional Biochemistry of the Nervous System, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Nuzzi R, Tridico F. Glaucoma: Biological Trabecular and Neuroretinal Pathology with Perspectives of Therapy Innovation and Preventive Diagnosis. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:494. [PMID: 28928631 PMCID: PMC5591842 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common degenerative disease affecting retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and optic nerve axons, with progressive and chronic course. It is one of the most important reasons of social blindness in industrialized countries. Glaucoma can lead to the development of irreversible visual field loss, if not treated. Diagnosis may be difficult due to lack of symptoms in early stages of disease. In many cases, when patients arrive at clinical evaluation, a severe neuronal damage may have already occurred. In recent years, newer perspective in glaucoma treatment have emerged. The current research is focusing on finding newer drugs and associations or better delivery systems in order to improve the pharmacological treatment and patient compliance. Moreover, the application of various stem cell types with restorative and neuroprotective intent may be found appealing (intravitreal autologous cellular therapy). Advances are made also in terms of parasurgical treatment, characterized by various laser types and techniques. Moreover, recent research has led to the development of central and peripheral retinal rehabilitation (featuring residing cells reactivation and replacement of defective elements), as well as innovations in diagnosis through more specific and refined methods and inexpensive tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Nuzzi
- Eye Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Ophthalmic HospitalTurin, Italy
| | - Federico Tridico
- Eye Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Ophthalmic HospitalTurin, Italy
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18
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He S, Stankowska DL, Ellis DZ, Krishnamoorthy RR, Yorio T. Targets of Neuroprotection in Glaucoma. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2017; 34:85-106. [PMID: 28820649 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2017.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive neurodegeneration of the optic nerve and the loss of retinal ganglion cells is a hallmark of glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) being the most frequent form of glaucoma in the Western world. While some genetic mutations have been identified for some glaucomas, those associated with POAG are limited and for most POAG patients, the etiology is still unclear. Unfortunately, treatment of this neurodegenerative disease and other retinal degenerative diseases is lacking. For POAG, most of the treatments focus on reducing aqueous humor formation, enhancing uveoscleral or conventional outflow, or lowering intraocular pressure through surgical means. These efforts, in some cases, do not always lead to a prevention of vision loss and therefore other strategies are needed to reduce or reverse the progressive neurodegeneration. In this review, we will highlight some of the ocular pharmacological approaches that are being tested to reduce neurodegeneration and provide some form of neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqing He
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center , Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Dorota L Stankowska
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center , Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Dorette Z Ellis
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center , Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Raghu R Krishnamoorthy
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center , Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Thomas Yorio
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center , Fort Worth, Texas
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19
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Boucard CC, Hanekamp S, Ćurčić-Blake B, Ida M, Yoshida M, Cornelissen FW. Neurodegeneration beyond the primary visual pathways in a population with a high incidence of normal-pressure glaucoma. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2017; 36:344-53. [PMID: 27112227 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glaucoma is the most common age-related neurodegenerative eye disease in western society. It is an insidious disease that, when untreated or detected too late, leads inevitably to blindness. An outstanding issue is whether glaucoma should be considered exclusively an eye disease or also a brain disease. To further examine it, we used Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) to study white matter integrity in a Japanese glaucoma population. This population has a very high incidence of normal-pressure glaucoma, in which optic nerve damage occurs in the absence of the elevated eye pressure that characterises the more common form of glaucoma. METHODS We performed DTI in 30 participants with normal-pressure glaucoma and 21 age-matched healthy controls. We used voxel-wise tract-based spatial statistics to compare fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity of the white matter of the brain between patients and control group. Whole-brain and region of interest-based analyses served to find associations between diffusion indices and clinical measures of glaucomatous damage. RESULTS Fractional Anisotropy was significantly lower in glaucoma patients in a cluster in the right occipital lobe (p < 0.05; family-wise error-corrected) comprising fibres of both the optic radiation and the forceps major. Additional analysis confirmed bilateral involvement of the optic radiations and forceps major and additionally revealed damage to the corpus callosum and parietal lobe (p < 0.09; family-wise error-corrected). The region of interest-based analysis revealed a positive association between Fractional Anisotropy of the optic radiation and optic nerve damage. CONCLUSIONS In this specific population, glaucoma is associated with lower Fractional Anisotropy in the optic radiations, forceps major and corpus callosum. We interpret these reductions as evidence for white matter degeneration in these loci. In particular, the degeneration of the corpus callosum suggests the presence of neurodegeneration of the brain beyond what can be explained on the basis of propagated retinal and pre-geniculate damage. We discuss how this finding links to the emerging view that a brain component that is independent from the eye damage plays a role in the aetiology of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine C Boucard
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sandra Hanekamp
- Laboratory for Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Branislava Ćurčić-Blake
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Masahiro Ida
- Department of Radiology, Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Treatment Corporation, Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaki Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Frans W Cornelissen
- Laboratory for Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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20
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Garcia TB, Hollborn M, Bringmann A. Expression and signaling of NGF in the healthy and injured retina. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2017; 34:43-57. [PMID: 27964967 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes the present knowledge concerning the retinal localization of the nerve growth factor (NGF), its precursor proNGF, and the receptors TrkA and p75NTR in the developing and mature rodent retina. We further discuss the changes in the expression of NGF and the receptors in experimental models of retinal disorders and diseases like inherited retinitis pigmentosa, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Since proNGF is now recognized as a bioactive signaling molecule which induces cell death through p75NTR activation, the role of proNGF in the induction of retinal cell loss under neurodegenerative conditions is also highlighted. In addition, we present the evidences for a potential therapeutic intervention with NGF for the treatment of retinal neurodegenerative diseases. Different strategies have been developed and experimentally tested in mice and rats in order to reduce cell loss and Müller cell gliosis, e.g., increasing the availability of endogenous NGF, administration of exogenous NGF, activation of TrkA, and inhibition of p75NTR. Here, we discuss the several lines of evidence supporting a protective effect of NGF on retinal cell loss, with specific emphasis on photoreceptor and retinal ganglion cell degeneration. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of NGF and proNGF in the modulation of neurodegeneration and gliosis in the retina will help to develop efficient therapeutic strategies for various retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margrit Hollborn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Bringmann
- Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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21
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Time-Dependent Nerve Growth Factor Signaling Changes in the Rat Retina During Optic Nerve Crush-Induced Degeneration of Retinal Ganglion Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010098. [PMID: 28067793 PMCID: PMC5297732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is suggested to be neuroprotective after nerve injury; however, retinal ganglion cells (RGC) degenerate following optic-nerve crush (ONC), even in the presence of increased levels of endogenous NGF. To further investigate this apparently paradoxical condition, a time-course study was performed to evaluate the effects of unilateral ONC on NGF expression and signaling in the adult retina. Visually evoked potential and immunofluorescence staining were used to assess axonal damage and RGC loss. The levels of NGF, proNGF, p75NTR, TrkA and GFAP and the activation of several intracellular pathways were analyzed at 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after crush (dac) by ELISA/Western Blot and PathScan intracellular signaling array. The progressive RGC loss and nerve impairment featured an early and sustained activation of apoptotic pathways; and GFAP and p75NTR enhancement. In contrast, ONC-induced reduction of TrkA, and increased proNGF were observed only at 7 and 14 dac. We propose that proNGF and p75NTR contribute to exacerbate retinal degeneration by further stimulating apoptosis during the second week after injury, and thus hamper the neuroprotective effect of the endogenous NGF. These findings might aid in identifying effective treatment windows for NGF-based strategies to counteract retinal and/or optic-nerve degeneration.
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Rocco ML, Balzamino BO, Esposito G, Petrella C, Aloe L, Micera A. NGF/anti-VEGF combined exposure protects RCS retinal cells and photoreceptors that underwent a local worsening of inflammation. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2016; 255:567-574. [PMID: 28013393 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-016-3567-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our previous study highlighted the potential nerve growth factor (NGF) effect on damaged photoreceptors from a rat model of spontaneous Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP). Herein, we tested the combined NGF/anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (αVEGF) effect on cultured retinal cells isolated from Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats receiving an intravitreal VEGF injection (iv-VEGF) to exacerbate retinal inflammation/neovascularization. METHODS RCS (n = 75) rats were equally grouped as untreated (n = 25), iv-saline (single saline intravitreal injection; n = 25) and iv-VEGF (single VEGF intravitreal injection; n = 25). Morphological and biochemical analysis or in vitro stimulations with the biomolecular investigation were carried out on explanted retinas. Isolated retinal cells were treated with NGF and αVEGF, either alone or in combination, for 6 days and cells were harvested for morphological and biomolecular analyses. RESULTS Infiltrating inflammatory cells were detected in iv-VEGF exposed RCS retinas, indicative of exacerbated inflammation and neovascularization. In cell cultures, NGF/αVEGF significantly increased retinal cell survival as well as rhodopsin expression and neurite outgrowth in photoreceptors. Particularly, NGF/αVEGF upregulated Bcl-2 mRNA, downregulated Bax mRNA, upregulated trkANGFR mRNA and finally upregulated both NGF mRNA and protein. CONCLUSIONS These data confirm and extend our previous findings on NGF-photoreceptor crosstalk, highlighting that the NGF/αVEGF combination might be an interesting approach for improving neuroprotection of RCS retinal cells and likewise photoreceptors in the presence of neovascularization. Further studies are required to translate this in vitro approach into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bijorn Omar Balzamino
- Research Laboratories in Ophthalmology, IRCCS-G.B. Bietti Foundation, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 6 I-00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Graziana Esposito
- Research Laboratories in Ophthalmology, IRCCS-G.B. Bietti Foundation, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 6 I-00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Petrella
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Aloe
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Micera
- Research Laboratories in Ophthalmology, IRCCS-G.B. Bietti Foundation, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 6 I-00184, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
Diabetes mellitus represents a growing international public health issue with a near quadrupling in its worldwide prevalence since 1980. Though it has many known microvascular complications, vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is one of the most devastating for affected individuals. In addition, there is increasing evidence to suggest that diabetic patients have a greater risk for glaucoma as well. Though the pathophysiology of glaucoma is not completely understood, both diabetes and glaucoma appear to share some common risk factors and pathophysiologic similarities with studies also reporting that the presence of diabetes and elevated fasting glucose levels are associated with elevated intraocular pressure-the primary risk factor for glaucomatous optic neuropathy. While no study has completely addressed the possibility of detection bias, most recent epidemiologic evidence suggests that diabetic populations are likely enriched with glaucoma patients. As the association between diabetes and glaucoma becomes better defined, routine evaluation for glaucoma in diabetic patients, particularly in the telemedicine setting, may become a reasonable consideration to reduce the risk of vision loss in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Song
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Lloyd Paul Aiello
- Beetham Eye Institute, Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, 1 Joslin Place, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Louis R Pasquale
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 181 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Mysona BA, Zhao J, Bollinger KE. Role of BDNF/TrkB pathway in the visual system: Therapeutic implications for glaucoma. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2016; 12:69-81. [PMID: 28751923 DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2017.1259566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroprotective therapeutics are needed to treat glaucoma, an optic neuropathy that results in death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). AREAS COVERED The BDNF/TrkB pathway is important for RGC survival. Temporal and spatial alterations in the BDNF/TrkB pathway occur in development and in response to acute optic nerve injury and to glaucoma. In animal models, BDNF supplementation is successful at slowing RGC death after acute optic nerve injury and in glaucoma, however, the BDNF/TrkB signaling is not the only pathway supporting long term RGC survival. EXPERT COMMENTARY Much remains to be discovered about the interaction between retrograde, anterograde, and retinal BDNF/TrkB signaling pathways in both neurons and glia. An ideal therapeutic agent for glaucoma likely has several modes of action that target multiple mechanisms of neurodegeneration including the BDNF/TrkB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Mysona
- Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Health Sciences Campus, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
| | - J Zhao
- Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
| | - K E Bollinger
- Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
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25
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Luke MPS, LeVatte TL, Rutishauser U, Tremblay F, Clarke DB. Polysialylated Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule Protects Against Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2016; 57:5066-5075. [PMID: 27661859 PMCID: PMC6012193 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-19499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We previously demonstrated that neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) plays an important role in supporting the survival of injured retinal ganglion cells. In the current study, we used light-induced retinal degeneration (LIRD) as a model to investigate whether NCAM plays a functional role in neuroprotection and whether NCAM influences p75NTR signaling in modulating retinal cell survival. Methods Retinas from wild-type (WT) and NCAM deficient (−/−) mice were tested by electroretinogram before and after LIRD, and changes in the protein expressions of NCAM, polysialic acid (PSA)-NCAM, p75NTR, and active caspase 3 were measured by immunoblot from 0 to 4 days after light induction. The effects of NCAM and PSA-NCAM on p75NTR were examined by intraocular injections of the p75NTR function-blocking antibody and/or the removal of PSA with endoneuraminidase-N prior to LIRD. Results In WT mice, low levels of active caspase 3 activation were detected on the first day, followed by increases up to 4 days after LIRD. Conversely, in NCAM−/− mice, higher cleaved caspase 3 levels along with rapid reductions in electroretinogram amplitudes were found earlier at day 1, followed by reduced levels by day 4. The removal of PSA prior to LIRD induced earlier onset of retinal cell death, an effect delayed by the coadministration of endoneuraminidase-N and the p75NTR function-blocking antibody antiserum. Conclusions These results indicate that NCAM protects WT retinas from LIRD; furthermore, the protective effect of NCAM is, at least in part, attributed to its effects on p75NTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Po-Shan Luke
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Life Science Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Terry L LeVatte
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Life Science Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Urs Rutishauser
- Cellular and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Cell Biology, Sloan-Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States
| | - François Tremblay
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 4Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - David B Clarke
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Life Science Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 4Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 5Department of Surgery (Neurosurgery), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Josephy-Hernandez S, Jmaeff S, Pirvulescu I, Aboulkassim T, Saragovi HU. Neurotrophin receptor agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents: An evolving paradigm. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 97:139-155. [PMID: 27546056 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are prevalent, complex and devastating conditions, with very limited treatment options currently available. While they manifest in many forms, there are commonalities that link them together. In this review, we will focus on neurotrophins - a family of related factors involved in neuronal development and maintenance. Neurodegenerative diseases often present with a neurotrophin imbalance, in which there may be decreases in trophic signaling through Trk receptors for example, and/or increases in pro-apoptotic activity through p75. Clinical trials with neurotrophins have continuously failed due to their poor pharmacological properties as well as the unavoidable activation of p75. Thus, there is a need for drugs without such setbacks. Small molecule neurotrophin mimetics are favorable options since they can selectively activate Trks or inactivate p75. In this review, we will initially present a brief outline of how these molecules are synthesized and their mechanisms of action; followed by an update in the current state of neurotrophins and small molecules in major neurodegenerative diseases. Although there has been significant progress in the development of potential therapeutics, more studies are needed to establish clear mechanisms of action and target specificity in order to transition from animal models to the assessment of safety and use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Josephy-Hernandez
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sean Jmaeff
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Iulia Pirvulescu
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tahar Aboulkassim
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - H Uri Saragovi
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Kumarasamy N, Lam F, Wang A, Theoharides T. Glaucoma: Current and Developing Concepts for Inflammation, Pathogenesis and Treatment. EUR J INFLAMM 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x0600400301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder of the eye. However, the mechanism leading to the disease is still unclear. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and subsequent retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death leading to the loss of visual field characterizes the pathology of primary open angle glaucoma, which is the most common form. Possible factors leading to glaucoma include glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, nitric oxide (NO) based damage, disruption of neurotrophic factor transport and immune-induced neurodestruction. Current treatment options primarily aim at decreasing IOP by utilizing pharmacological agents, laser therapy and surgery. Developing treatments target neuroprotection with vaccines, the inhibition of NO synthesis and apoptosis. Gaining a better understanding of the pathogenesis can aid in the development of new treatment options and, perhaps, even a cure for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - T.C. Theoharides
- Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Internal Medicine and Biochemistry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Interferon-β Inhibits Neurotrophin 3 Signalling and Pro-Survival Activity by Upregulating the Expression of Truncated TrkC-T1 Receptor. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:1825-1843. [PMID: 26887385 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-9789-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Although clinically useful for the treatment of various diseases, type I interferons (IFNs) have been implicated as causative factors of a number of neuroinflammatory disorders characterized by neuronal damage and altered CNS functions. As neurotrophin 3 (NT3) plays a critical role in neuroprotection, we examined the effects of IFN-β on the signalling and functional activity of the NT3/TrkC system. We found that prolonged exposure of differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to IFN-β impaired the ability of NT3 to induce transphosphorylation of the full-length TrkC receptor (TrkC-FL) and the phosphorylation of downstream signalling molecules, including PLCγ1, Akt, GSK-3β and ERK1/2. NT3 was effective in protecting the cells against apoptosis triggered by serum withdrawal or thapsigargin but not IFN-β. Prolonged exposure to the cytokine had little effects on TrkC-FL levels but markedly enhanced the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of the truncated isoform TrkC-T1, a dominant-negative receptor that inhibits TrkC-FL activity. Cell depletion of TrkC-T1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) treatment enhanced NT3 signalling through TrkC-FL and allowed the neurotrophin to counteract IFN-β-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the upregulation of TrkC-T1 by IFN-β was associated with the inhibition of NT3-induced recruitment of the scaffold protein tamalin to TrkC-T1 and tamalin tyrosine phosphorylation. These data indicate that IFN-β exerts a negative control on NT3 pro-survival signalling through a novel mechanism involving the upregulation of TrkC-T1.
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Costa L, Cunha JP, Amado D, Pinto LA, Ferreira J. Diabetes Mellitus as a Risk Factor in Glaucoma's Physiopathology and Surgical Survival Time: A Literature Review. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2016; 9:81-5. [PMID: 26997842 PMCID: PMC4779946 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10008-1190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a multifactorial condition under serious influence of many risk factors. The role of diabetes mellitus (DM) in glaucoma etiology or progression remains inconclusive. Although, the diabetic patients have different healing mechanism comparing to the general population and it has a possible-negative role on surgical outcomes. This review article attempts to analyze the association of both diseases, glaucoma and DM, before and after the surgery. The epidemiological studies, based mainly in population prevalence analyzes, have shown opposite outcomes in time and even in the most recent articles also the association remains inconclusive. On the contrary, the experimental models based on animal induced chronic hyperglycemia have shown an important association of both diseases, explained by common neurodegenerative mechanisms. Diabetic patients have a different wound healing process in the eye viz-a-viz other organs. The healing process is more and it results in lower surgical survival time, higher intraocular pressure (IOP) levels and, therefore, these patients usually need more medication to lower the IOP. Both randomized and nonrandomized retrospective and experimental molecular studies have shown the association between DM and glaucoma. Further studies are needed to get better explanations about outcomes on more recent surgical procedures and with the exponential use of antifibrotics. How to cite this article: Costa L, Cunha JP, Amado D, Pinto LA, Ferreira J. Diabetes Mellitus as a Risk Factor in Glaucoma's Physiopathology and Surgical Survival Time: A Literature Review. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2015;9(3):81-85.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívio Costa
- Consultant, Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Cunha
- Consultant, Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central; Faculty of Medical Sciences, New University, Lisbon Portugal
| | - Duarte Amado
- Consultant, Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Abegão Pinto
- Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa; Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Ferreira
- Consultant, Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central; Faculty of Medical Sciences, New University, Lisbon Portugal
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Roberti G, Tanga L, Michelessi M, Quaranta L, Parisi V, Manni G, Oddone F. Cytidine 5'-Diphosphocholine (Citicoline) in Glaucoma: Rationale of Its Use, Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:28401-17. [PMID: 26633368 PMCID: PMC4691046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161226099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytidine 5'-diphosphocholine or citicoline is an endogenous compound that acts in the biosynthetic pathway of phospholipids of cell membranes, particularly phosphatidylcholine, and it is able to increase neurotrasmitters levels in the central nervous system. Citicoline has shown positive effects in Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, as well as in amblyopia. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease currently considered a disease involving ocular and visual brain structures. Neuroprotection has been proposed as a valid therapeutic option for those patients progressing despite a well-controlled intraocular pressure, the main risk factor for the progression of the disease. The aim of this review is to critically summarize the current evidence about the effect of citicoline in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Roberti
- IRCCS-Fondazione GB Bietti, Via Livenza, 3, 00198 Rome, Italy.
| | - Lucia Tanga
- IRCCS-Fondazione GB Bietti, Via Livenza, 3, 00198 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Luciano Quaranta
- DSMC, Università degli studi di Brescia, USVD "Centro per lo studio del Glaucoma" P.le Spedali Civili, 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Parisi
- IRCCS-Fondazione GB Bietti, Via Livenza, 3, 00198 Rome, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Manni
- DSCMT, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Yang X, Hondur G, Li M, Cai J, Klein JB, Kuehn MH, Tezel G. Proteomics Analysis of Molecular Risk Factors in the Ocular Hypertensive Human Retina. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015; 56:5816-30. [PMID: 26348630 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-17294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To better understand ocular hypertension-induced early molecular alterations that may determine the initiation of neurodegeneration in human glaucoma, this study analyzed retinal proteomic alterations in the ocular hypertensive human retina. METHODS Retina samples were obtained from six human donors with ocular hypertension (without glaucomatous injury) and six age- and sex-matched normotensive controls. Retinal proteins were analyzed by two-dimensional LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography and linear ion trap mass spectrometry) using oxygen isotope labeling for relative quantification of protein expression. Proteomics data were validated by Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses of selected proteins. RESULTS Out of over 2000 retinal proteins quantified, hundreds exhibited over 2-fold increased or decreased expression in ocular hypertensive samples relative to normotensive controls. Bioinformatics linked the proteomics datasets to various pathways important for maintenance of cellular homeostasis in the ocular hypertensive retina. Upregulated proteins included various heat shock proteins, ubiquitin proteasome pathway components, antioxidants, and DNA repair enzymes, while many proteins involved in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation exhibited downregulation in the ocular hypertensive retina. Despite the altered protein expression reflecting intrinsic adaptive/protective responses against mitochondrial energy failure, oxidative stress, and unfolded proteins, no alterations suggestive of an ongoing cell death process or neuroinflammation were detectable. CONCLUSIONS This study provides information about ocular hypertension-related molecular risk factors for glaucoma development. Molecular alterations detected in the ocular hypertensive human retina as opposed to previously detected alterations in human donor retinas with clinically manifest glaucoma suggest that proteome alterations determine the individual threshold to tolerate the ocular hypertension-induced tissue stress or convert to glaucomatous neurodegeneration when intrinsic adaptive/protective responses are overwhelmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, United States
| | - Gözde Hondur
- Department of Ophthalmology Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, United States
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
| | - Jian Cai
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
| | - Jon B Klein
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, United States 3Robley Rex Veterans Administration Medical Center, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
| | - Markus H Kuehn
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, United States
| | - Gülgün Tezel
- Department of Ophthalmology Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, United States
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Dekeyster E, Geeraerts E, Buyens T, Van den Haute C, Baekelandt V, De Groef L, Salinas-Navarro M, Moons L. Tackling Glaucoma from within the Brain: An Unfortunate Interplay of BDNF and TrkB. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142067. [PMID: 26560713 PMCID: PMC4641732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the neurotrophin deprivation hypothesis, diminished retrograde delivery of neurotrophic support during an early stage of glaucoma pathogenesis is one of the main triggers that induce retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration. Therefore, interfering with neurotrophic signaling seems an attractive strategy to achieve neuroprotection. Indeed, exogenous neurotrophin administration to the eye has been shown to reduce loss of RGCs in animal models of glaucoma; however, the neuroprotective effect was mostly insufficient for sustained RGC survival. We hypothesized that treatment at the level of neurotrophin-releasing brain areas might be beneficial, as signaling pathways activated by target-derived neurotrophins are suggested to differ from pathways that are initiated at the soma membrane. In our study, first, the spatiotemporal course of RGC degeneration was characterized in mice subjected to optic nerve crush (ONC) or laser induced ocular hypertension (OHT). Subsequently, the well-known neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was chosen as the lead molecule, and the levels of BDNF and its high-affinity receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), were examined in the mouse retina and superior colliculus (SC) upon ONC and OHT. Both models differentially influenced BDNF and TrkB levels. Next, we aimed for RGC protection through viral vector-mediated upregulation of collicular BDNF, thought to boost the retrograde neurotrophin delivery. Although the previously reported temporary neuroprotective effect of intravitreally delivered recombinant BDNF was confirmed, viral vector-induced BDNF overexpression in the SC did not result in protection of the RGCs in the glaucoma models used. These findings most likely relate to decreased neurotrophin responsiveness upon vector-mediated BDNF overexpression. Our results highlight important insights concerning the complexity of neurotrophic factor treatments that should surely be considered in future neuroprotective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Dekeyster
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emiel Geeraerts
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Buyens
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Research Group, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Viral Vector Core, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Research Group, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuel Salinas-Navarro
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Levkovitch-Verbin H. Retinal ganglion cell apoptotic pathway in glaucoma: Initiating and downstream mechanisms. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 220:37-57. [PMID: 26497784 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma causes progressive visual field loss, making it the primary cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Elevated intraocular pressure and aging, the main risk factors for glaucoma, accelerate RGC apoptosis. Numerous pathways and mechanisms were found to be involved in RGC death in glaucoma. Neurotrophic factors deprivation is an early event. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, glial cell dysfunction, and activation of apoptotic pathways and prosurvival pathways play a significant role in RGC death in glaucoma. The most important among the involved pathways are the MAP-kinase pathway, PI-3 kinase/Akt pathway, Bcl-2 family, caspase family, and IAP family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Levkovitch-Verbin
- Glaucoma Service, Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
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Cui YH, Huang JF, Cheng SY, Wei W, Shang L, Li N, Xiong K. Study on establishment and mechanics application of finite element model of bovine eye. BMC Ophthalmol 2015; 15:101. [PMID: 26268321 PMCID: PMC4535564 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-015-0073-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glaucoma mainly induced by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), it was believed that the pressure that wall of eyeball withstands were determined by material properties of the tissue and stereoscopic geometry of the eyeball. In order to study the pressure changes in different parts of interior eyeball wall, it is necessary to develop a novel eye ball FEM with more accurate geometry and material properties. Use this model to study the stress changes in different parts of eyeball, especially the lamina cribrosa (LC) under normal physiological and pathological IOP, and provide a mathematical model for biomechanical studies of selected retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) death. METHODS (1) Sclera was cut into 3.8-mm wide, 14.5-mm long strips, and cornea was cut into 9.5-mm-wide and 10-mm-long strips; (2) 858 Mini BionixII biomechanical loading instrument was used to stretch sclera and cornea. The stretching rate for sclera was 0.3 mm/s, 3 mm/s, 30 mm/s, 300 mm/s; and for cornea were 0.3 mm/s and 30 mm/s. The deformation-stress curve was recorded; (3) Naso-temporal and longitudinal distance of LC were measured; (4) Micro-CT was used to accurately scan fresh bovine eyes and obtain the geometrical image and data to establish bovine eye model. 3-D reconstruction was performed using these images and data to work out the geometric shape of bovine eye; (5) IOP levels for eyeball FEM was set and the inner wall of eyeball was used taken as load-bearing part. Simulated eyeball FE modeling was run under the IOP level of 10 mmHg, 30 mmHg, 60 mmHg and 100 mmHg, and the force condition of different parts of eyeball was recorded under different IOP levels. RESULTS (1) We obtained the material parameters more in line with physiological conditions and established a more realistic eyeball model using reversed engineering of parameters optimization method to calculate the complex nonlinear super-elastic and viscoelastic parameters more accurately; (2) We observed the following phenomenon by simulating increased pressure using FEM: as simulative IOP increased, the stress concentration scope on the posterior half of sclera became narrower; in the meantime, the stress-concentration scope on the anterior half of scleral gradually expanded, and the stress on the central part of LC is highest. CONCLUSION As simulative IOP increased, stress-concentration scope on the posterior half of sclera gradually narrowed; in the meantime, the stress-concentration scope on the anterior half of sclera gradually expanded, and the stress on the LC is mainly concentrated in the central part, suggesting that IOP is mainly concentrated in the anterior part of the eyeball as it increases. This might provide a biomechanical evidence to explain why RGCs in peripheral part die earlier than RGCs in central part under HIOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Hui Cui
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Morphological Sciences Building, Central South University, 172 Tongzi Po Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Ju-Fang Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Morphological Sciences Building, Central South University, 172 Tongzi Po Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Si-Ying Cheng
- Eight-year clinical medicine, 2011 grade, Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Laboratoire de Biomécanique Appliquée, MRT24 IFSTTAR-Aix-Marseille Université, Bd. P. Dramard, Faculté de Medecine secteur-Nord, Marseille, 13916, France.
| | - Lei Shang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Morphological Sciences Building, Central South University, 172 Tongzi Po Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Na Li
- Radiology Department, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 138 Tongzi Po Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Kun Xiong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Morphological Sciences Building, Central South University, 172 Tongzi Po Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
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Kong JH, Zheng D, Chen S, Duan HT, Wang YX, Dong M, Song J. A comparative study on the transplantation of different concentrations of human umbilical mesenchymal cells into diabetic rats. Int J Ophthalmol 2015; 8:257-62. [PMID: 25938037 DOI: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-3959.2015.02.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To observe the effects of intravitreal injections of different concentrations of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells on retinopathy in rats with diabetes mellitus. METHODS Healthy and adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to a normal control group (group A), a diabetic retinopathy (DR) blank control group (group B), a high-concentration transplantation group (group C), a low-concentration transplantation group (group D) and a placebo transplantation group (group E). The expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) protein in the retinal layers was detected by immunohistochemical staining at 2, 4, 6 and 8wk. RESULTS The expression of NGF was positive in group A and most positive in the retinal ganglion cell layer. In groups B and E, the expression of NGF was positive 2wk after transplantation and showed an increase in all layers. However, the level of expression had decreased in all layers at 4wk and was significantly reduced at 8wk. In groups C and D, the expression of NGF had increased at 2wk and continued to increase up to 8wk. The level of expression in group C was much higher than that in group D. CONCLUSION DR can be improved by intravitreal injection of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells. High concentrations of human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells confer a better protective effect on DR than low concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hui Kong
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Dan Zheng
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Song Chen
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Hong-Tao Duan
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Yue-Xin Wang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Meng Dong
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Jian Song
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Tianjin 300020, China
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Huang J, Zhou L, Wang H, Luo J, Xiong K, Zeng L, Chen D. Spatiotemporal alterations of presynaptic elements in the retina after high intraocular pressure. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:1234-40. [PMID: 25709621 PMCID: PMC4336957 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.16.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A rat model of acute high intraocular pressure was established by injecting saline into the anterior chamber of the left eye. Synaptophysin expression was increased in the inner plexiform layer at 2 hours following injury, and was widely distributed in the outer plexiform layer at 3–7 days, and then decreased to the normal level at 14 days. This suggests that expression of this presynaptic functional protein experienced spatiotemporal alterations after elevation of intraocular pressure. There was no significant change in the fluorescence intensity and distribution pattern for synapse-associated protein 102 following elevated intraocular pressure. Synapse-associated protein 102 immunoreactivity was confined to the outer plexiform layer, while synaptophysin immunoreactivity spread into the outer plexiform layer and the outer nuclear layer at 3 and 7 days following injury. These alterations in presynaptic elements were not accompanied by changes in postsynaptic components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jufang Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lihong Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jia Luo
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Kun Xiong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Leping Zeng
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
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Domenici L, Origlia N, Falsini B, Cerri E, Barloscio D, Fabiani C, Sansò M, Giovannini L. Rescue of retinal function by BDNF in a mouse model of glaucoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115579. [PMID: 25536045 PMCID: PMC4275209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision loss in glaucoma is caused by progressive dysfunction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve atrophy. Here, we investigated the effectiveness of BDNF treatment to preserve vision in a glaucoma experimental model. As an established experimental model, we used the DBA/2J mouse, which develops chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation that mimics primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). IOP was measured at different ages in DBA/2J mice. Visual function was monitored using the steady-state Pattern Electroretinogram (P-ERG) and visual cortical evoked potentials (VEP). RGC alterations were assessed using Brn3 immunolabeling, and confocal microscope analysis. Human recombinant BDNF was dissolved in physiological solution (0.9% NaCl); the effects of repeated intravitreal injections and topical eye BDNF applications were independently evaluated in DBA/2J mice with ocular hypertension. BDNF level was measured in retinal homogenate by ELISA and western blot. We found a progressive decline of P-ERG and VEP responses in DBA/2J mice between 4 and 7 months of age, in relationship with the development of ocular hypertension and the reduction of Brn3 immunopositive RGCs. Conversely, repeated intravitreal injections (BDNF concentration = 2 µg/µl, volume = 1 µl, for each injection; 1 injection every four days, three injections over two weeks) and topical eye application of BDNF eye-drops (12 µg/µl, 5 µl eye-drop every 48 h for two weeks) were able to rescue visual responses in 7 month DBA/2J mice. In particular, BDNF topical eye treatment recovered P-ERG and VEP impairment increasing the number of Brn3 immunopositive RGCs. We showed that BDNF effects were independent of IOP reduction. Thus, topical eye treatment with BDNF represents a promisingly safe and feasible strategy to preserve visual function and diminish RGC vulnerability to ocular hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Domenici
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy; Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology (DISCAB), University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Nicola Origlia
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetto Falsini
- Institute of Ophthalmology, Policlinico Gemelli, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Cerri
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Davide Barloscio
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlotta Fabiani
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Sansò
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Giovannini
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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The nerve growth factor signaling and its potential as therapeutic target for glaucoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:759473. [PMID: 25250333 PMCID: PMC4164261 DOI: 10.1155/2014/759473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprotective therapies which focus on factors leading to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) degeneration have been drawing more and more attention. The beneficial effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) on the glaucoma have been recently suggested, but its effects on eye tissue are complex and controversial in various studies. Recent clinical trials of systemically and topically administrated NGF demonstrate that NGF is effective in treating several ocular diseases, including glaucoma. NGF has two receptors named high affinity NGF tyrosine kinase receptor TrkA and low affinity receptor p75NTR. Both receptors exist in cells in retina like RGC (expressing TrkA) and glia cells (expressing p75NTR). NGF functions by binding to TrkA or p75NTR alone or both together. The binding of NGF to TrkA alone in RGC promotes RGC's survival and proliferation through activation of TrkA and several prosurvival pathways. In contrast, the binding of NGF to p75NTR leads to apoptosis although it also promotes survival in some cases. Binding of NGF to both TrkA and p75NTR at the same time leads to survival in which p75NTR functions as a TrkA helping receptor. This review discusses the current understanding of the NGF signaling in retina and the therapeutic implications in the treatment of glaucoma.
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Trophic factors in the pathogenesis and therapy for retinal degenerative diseases. Surv Ophthalmol 2014; 59:134-65. [PMID: 24417953 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2013.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Trophic factors are endogenously secreted proteins that act in an autocrine and/or paracrine fashion to affect vital cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and regeneration, thereby maintaining overall cell homeostasis. In the eye, the major contributors of these molecules are the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and Müller cells. The primary paracrine targets of these secreted proteins include the photoreceptors and choriocapillaris. Retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are characterized by aberrant function and/or eventual death of RPE cells, photoreceptors, choriocapillaris, and other retinal cells. We discuss results of in vitro and in vivo animal studies in which candidate trophic factors, either singly or in combination, were used in an attempt to ameliorate photoreceptor and/or retinal degeneration. We also examine current trophic factor therapies as they relate to the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases in clinical studies.
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Shen W, Zhu L, Lee SR, Chung SH, Gillies MC. Involvement of NT3 and P75(NTR) in photoreceptor degeneration following selective Müller cell ablation. J Neuroinflammation 2013; 10:137. [PMID: 24224958 PMCID: PMC3831588 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-10-137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurotrophins can regulate opposing functions that result in cell survival or apoptosis, depending on which form of the protein is secreted and which receptor and signaling pathway is activated. We have recently developed a transgenic model in which inducible and patchy Müller cell ablation leads to photoreceptor degeneration. This study aimed to examine the roles of mature neurotrophin-3 (NT3), pro-NT3 and p75 neurotrophin receptor (P75(NTR)) in photoreceptor degeneration in this model. METHODS Transgenic mice received tamoxifen to induce Müller cell ablation. Changes in the status of Müller and microglia cells as well as expression of mature NT3, pro-NT3 and P75(NTR) were examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Recombinant mature NT3 and an antibody neutralizing 75(NTR) were injected intravitreally 3 and 6 days after Müller cell ablation to examine their effects on photoreceptor degeneration and microglial activation. RESULTS We found that patchy loss of Müller cells was associated with activation of surviving Müller cells and microglial cells, concurrently with reduced expression of mature NT3 and upregulation of pro-NT3 and P75(NTR). Intravitreal injection of mature NT3 and a neutralizing antibody to P75NTR, either alone or in combination, attenuated photoreceptor degeneration and the beneficial effect was associated with inhibition of microglial activation. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that Müller cell ablation alters the balance between the protective and deleterious effects of mature NT3 and pro-NT3. Modulation of the neuroprotective action of mature NT3 and pro-apoptotic pro-NT3/P75(NTR) signaling may represent a novel pharmacological strategy for photoreceptor protection in retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyong Shen
- Save Sight Institute, the University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney 2000, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute, the University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney 2000, Australia
| | - So-Ra Lee
- Save Sight Institute, the University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney 2000, Australia
| | - Sook H Chung
- Save Sight Institute, the University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney 2000, Australia
| | - Mark C Gillies
- Save Sight Institute, the University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney 2000, Australia
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Neurotrophic molecules in the treatment of neurodegenerative disease with focus on the retina: status and perspectives. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 353:205-18. [PMID: 23463189 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1585-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors are operationally defined as molecules that promote the survival and differentiation of neurons. Chemically, they belong to divergent classes of molecules but most of the classic neurotrophic factors are proteins. Together with stem cells, viral vectors and genetically engineered cells, they constitute important tools in neuroprotective and regenerative neurobiology. Protein neurotrophic molecules signal through receptors located on the cell membrane. Their downstream signaling exploits pathways that are often common to chemically different factors and frequently target a relatively restricted set of transcription factors, RNA interference and diverse molecular machinery involved in the life vs. death decisions of neurons. Application of neurotrophic factors with the aim of curing or, at least, improving the outcome of neurodegenerative diseases requires (1) profound knowledge of the complex molecular pathology of the disease, (2) the development of animal models as closely as possible resembling the human disease, (3) the identification of target cells to be addressed, (4) intense efforts in chemical engineering to ensure the stability of molecules or to design carriers and small analogs with the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and (5) scrutinity with regard to possible side effects. Last, but not least, engineering efforts to optimize administration, e.g., by designing the right canulae and infusion devices, are important for the successful translation of preclinical advances into clinical benefit. This article presents selected examples of neurotrophic factors that are currently being tested in animal models or developed for transfer to the clinic, with a major focus on factors with the potential of becoming applicable in various forms of retinal degeneration.
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Weber AJ. Autocrine and paracrine interactions and neuroprotection in glaucoma. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 353:219-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1556-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Lee JY, Shin JM, Yeum CE, Chae GT, Chun MH, Oh SJ. Intravitreal delivery of mesenchymal stem cells loaded onto hydrogel affects the regulatory expression of endogenous NGF and BDNF in ischemic rat retina. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s13770-012-0355-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Ibáñez CF, Simi A. p75 neurotrophin receptor signaling in nervous system injury and degeneration: paradox and opportunity. Trends Neurosci 2012; 35:431-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2011] [Revised: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Park HYL, Kim JH, Sun Kim H, Park CK. Stem cell-based delivery of brain-derived neurotrophic factor gene in the rat retina. Brain Res 2012; 1469:10-23. [PMID: 22750585 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
As an alternative to a viral vector, the application of stem cells to transfer specific genes is under investigation in various organs. Using this strategy may provide more effective method to supply neurotrophic factor to the neurodegenerative diseases caused by neurotrophic factor deprivation. This study investigated the possibility and efficacy of stem cell-based delivery of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene to rat retina. Rat BDNF cDNA was transduced into rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs) using a retroviral vector. Its incorporation into the experimental rat retina and the expression of BDNF after intravitreal injection or subretinal injection were detected by real-time PCR, western blot analysis, and immunohistochemical staining. For the incorporated rMSCs, retinal-specific marker staining was performed to investigate the changes in morphology and the characteristics of the stem cells. Transduction of the rMSCs by retrovirus was effective, and the transduced rMSCs expressed high levels of the BDNF gene and protein. The subretinal injection of rMSCs produced rMSC migration and incorporation into the rat retina (about 15.7% incorporation rate), and retinal BDNF mRNA and protein expression was increased at 4 weeks after transplantation. When subretinal injection of rMSCs was applied to axotomized rat retina, it significantly increased the expression of BDNF until 4 weeks after transplantation. Some of the transplanted rMSCs exhibited morphological changes, but the retinal-specific marker stain was not sufficient to indicate whether neuronal differentiation had occurred. Using mesenchymal stem cells to deliver the BDNF gene to the retina may provide new treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Young Lopilly Park
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 505 Banpo-dong, Seocho-ku, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
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Kato K, Sasaki N, Shastry BS. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in glaucomatous beagles is not associated with mutations in p53 and NTF4 genes. Vet Ophthalmol 2012; 15 Suppl 2:8-12. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-5224.2012.01024.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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48
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The molecular basis of retinal ganglion cell death in glaucoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2012; 31:152-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 565] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2011] [Revised: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 11/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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49
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Current concepts on primary open-angle glaucoma genetics: a contribution to disease pathophysiology and future treatment. Eye (Lond) 2011; 26:355-69. [PMID: 22173078 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2011.309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common, complex, heterogenous disease and it constitutes the major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common type of glaucoma in all populations. Most of the molecular mechanisms leading to POAG development are still unknown. Gene mutations in various populations have been identified by genetic studies and a genetic basis for glaucoma pathogenesis has been established. Linkage analysis and association studies are genetic approaches in the investigation of the genetic basis of POAG. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are more powerful compared with linkage analysis in discovering genes of small effect that might contribute to the development of the disease. POAG links to at least 20 genetic loci, but only 2 genes identified in these loci, myocilin and optineurin, are considered as well-established glaucoma-causing genes, whereas the role of other loci, genes, and variants implicated in the development of POAG remains controversial. Gene mutations associated with POAG result in retinal ganglion cell death, which is the common outcome of pathogenetic mechanisms in glaucoma. In future, if the sensitivity and specificity of genotyping increases, it may be possible to screen individuals routinely for disease susceptibility. This review is an update on the latest progress of genetic studies associated with POAG. It emphasizes the correlation of recent achievements in genetics with glaucoma pathophysiology, glaucoma treatment perspectives, and the possibility of future prevention of irreversible visual loss caused by the disease.
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Bull ND, Johnson TV, Welsapar G, DeKorver NW, Tomarev SI, Martin KR. Use of an adult rat retinal explant model for screening of potential retinal ganglion cell neuroprotective therapies. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:3309-20. [PMID: 21345987 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-6873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE. To validate an established adult organotypic retinal explant culture system for use as an efficient medium-throughput screening tool to investigate novel retinal ganglion cell (RGC) neuroprotective therapies. METHODS. Optimal culture conditions for detecting RGC neuroprotection in rat retinal explants were identified. Retinal explants were treated with various recognized, or purported, neuroprotective agents and cultured for either 4 or 7 days ex vivo. The number of cells surviving in the RGC layer (RGCL) was quantified using histologic and immunohistochemical techniques, and statistical analyses were applied to detect neuroprotective effects. RESULTS. The ability to replicate previously reported in vivo RGC neuroprotection in retinal explants was verified by demonstrating that caspase inhibition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor treatment, and stem cell transplantation all reduced RGCL cell loss in this model. Further screening of potential neuroprotective pharmacologic agents demonstrated that betaxolol, losartan, tafluprost, and simvastatin all alleviated RGCL cell loss in retinal explants, supporting previous reports. However, treatment with brimonidine did not protect RGCL neurons from death in retinal explant cultures. Explants cultured for 4 days ex vivo proved most sensitive for detecting neuroprotection. CONCLUSIONS. The current adult rat retinal explant culture model offers advantages over other models for screening potential neuroprotective drugs, including maintenance of neurons in situ, control of environmental conditions, and dissociation from other factors such as intraocular pressure. Verification that neuroprotection by previously identified RGC-protective therapies could be replicated in adult retinal explant cultures suggests that this model could be used for efficient medium-throughput screening of novel neuroprotective therapies for retinal neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie D Bull
- Cambridge Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
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