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Suanno G, Genna VG, Maurizi E, Dieh AA, Griffith M, Ferrari G. Cell therapy in the cornea: The emerging role of microenvironment. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 102:101275. [PMID: 38797320 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The cornea is an ideal testing field for cell therapies. Its highly ordered structure, where specific cell populations are sequestered in different layers, together with its accessibility, has allowed the development of the first stem cell-based therapy approved by the European Medicine Agency. Today, different techniques have been proposed for autologous and allogeneic limbal and non-limbal cell transplantation. Cell replacement has also been attempted in cases of endothelial cell decompensation as it occurs in Fuchs dystrophy: injection of cultivated allogeneic endothelial cells is now in advanced phases of clinical development. Recently, stromal substitutes have been developed with excellent integration capability and transparency. Finally, cell-derived products, such as exosomes obtained from different sources, have been investigated for the treatment of severe corneal diseases with encouraging results. Optimization of the success rate of cell therapies obviously requires high-quality cultured cells/products, but the role of the surrounding microenvironment is equally important to allow engraftment of transplanted cells, to preserve their functions and, ultimately, lead to restoration of tissue integrity and transparency of the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Suanno
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Maurizi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''S. Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anas Abu Dieh
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - May Griffith
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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2
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Di Girolamo N. Biologicals and Biomaterials for Corneal Regeneration and Vision Restoration in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2401763. [PMID: 38777343 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202401763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The mammalian cornea is decorated with stem cells bestowed with the life-long task of renewing the epithelium, provided they remain healthy, functional, and in sufficient numbers. If not, a debilitating disease known as limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) can develop causing blindness. Decades after the first stem cell (SC) therapy is devised to treat this condition, patients continue to suffer unacceptable failures. During this time, improvements to therapeutics have included identifying better markers to isolate robust SC populations and nurturing them on crudely modified biological or biomaterial scaffolds including human amniotic membrane, fibrin, and contact lenses, prior to their delivery. Researchers are now gathering information about the biomolecular and biomechanical properties of the corneal SC niche to decipher what biological and/or synthetic materials can be incorporated into these carriers. Advances in biomedical engineering including electrospinning and 3D bioprinting with surface functionalization and micropatterning, and self-assembly models, have generated a wealth of biocompatible, biodegradable, integrating scaffolds to choose from, some of which are being tested for their SC delivery capacity in the hope of improving clinical outcomes for patients with LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Di Girolamo
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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3
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Wu D, Chan KE, Lim BXH, Lim DKA, Wong WM, Chai C, Manotosh R, Lim CHL. Management of corneal neovascularization: Current and emerging therapeutic approaches. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:S354-S371. [PMID: 38648452 PMCID: PMC467007 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_3043_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal neovascularization (CoNV) is a sight-threatening condition affecting an estimated 1.4 million people per year, and the incidence is expected to rise. It is a complication of corneal pathological diseases such as infective keratitis, chemical burn, corneal limbal stem cell deficiency, mechanical trauma, and immunological rejection after keratoplasties. CoNV occurs due to a disequilibrium in proangiogenic and antiangiogenic mediators, involving a complex system of molecular interactions. Treatment of CoNV is challenging, and no therapy thus far has been curative. Anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment due to their accessibility and well-studied safety profile. However, they have limited effectiveness and are unable to regress more mature neovascularization. With the advent of advanced imaging modalities and an expanding understanding of its pathogenesis, contemporary treatments targeting a wide array of molecular mechanisms and surgical options are gaining traction. This review aims to summarize evidence regarding conventional and emerging therapeutic options for CoNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duoduo Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Kai En Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Blanche Xiao Hong Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dawn Ka-Ann Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wendy Meihua Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charmaine Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ray Manotosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chris Hong Long Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
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Li JY, Cortina MS, Greiner MA, Kuo AN, Miller DD, Shtein RM, Veldman PB, Yin J, Kim SJ, Shen JF. Outcomes and Complications of Limbal Stem Cell Allograft Transplantation: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Ophthalmology 2024:S0161-6420(24)00157-X. [PMID: 38678469 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2024.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the published literature on the safety and outcomes of keratolimbal allograft (KLAL) transplantation and living-related conjunctival limbal allograft (lr-CLAL) transplantation for bilateral severe/total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). METHODS Literature searches were last conducted in the PubMed database in February 2023 and were limited to the English language. They yielded 523 citations; 76 were reviewed in full text, and 21 met the inclusion criteria. Two studies were rated level II, and the remaining 19 studies were rated level III. There were no level I studies. RESULTS After KLAL surgery, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved in 42% to 92% of eyes at final follow-up (range, 12-95 months). The BCVA was unchanged in 17% to 39% of eyes and decreased in 8% to 29% of eyes. Two of 14 studies that evaluated the results of KLAL reported a notable decline in visual acuity over time postoperatively. Survival of KLAL was variable, ranging from 21% to 90% at last follow-up (range, 12-95 months) and decreased over time. For patients undergoing lr-CLAL surgery, BCVA improved in 31% to 100% of eyes at final follow-up (range, 16-49 months). Of the 9 studies evaluating lr-CLAL, 4 reported BCVA unchanged in 30% to 39% of patients, and 3 reported a decline in BCVA in 8% to 10% of patients. The survival rate of lr-CLAL ranged from 50% to 100% at final follow-up (range, 16-49 months). The most common complications were postoperative elevation of intraocular pressure, persistent epithelial defects, and acute allograft immune rejections. CONCLUSIONS Given limited options for patients with bilateral LSCD, both KLAL and lr-CLAL are viable choices that may provide improvement of vision and ocular surface findings. The studies trend toward a lower rejection rate and graft failure with lr-CLAL. However, the level and duration of immunosuppression vary widely between the studies and may impact allograft rejections and long-term graft survival. Complications related to immunosuppression are minimal. Repeat surgery may be needed to maintain a viable ocular surface. Reasonable long-term success can be achieved with both KLAL and lr-CLAL with appropriate systemic immunosuppression. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Y Li
- UC Davis Eye Center, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Maria S Cortina
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Anthony N Kuo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Darby D Miller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Roni M Shtein
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Peter B Veldman
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jia Yin
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stephen J Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Joanne F Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
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Bian Y, Jurkunas U. Ocular Chemical Injuries and Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency (LSCD): An Update on Management. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2024; 64:31-48. [PMID: 38525980 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
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Sanders FWB, Huang J, Alió Del Barrio JL, Hamada S, McAlinden C. Amniotic membrane transplantation: structural and biological properties, tissue preparation, application and clinical indications. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:668-679. [PMID: 37875701 PMCID: PMC10920809 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02777-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The amniotic membrane is a single epithelial layer of the placenta. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-scarring, anti-angiogenic and possibly bactericidal properties. The basement membrane of the amniotic membrane acts as a substrate to encourage healing and re-epithelialisation. It has been used in many ocular surface diseases including persistent epithelial defects (corneal or conjunctival), chemical or thermal burns, limbal stem cell deficiency, cicatrising conjunctivitis, ocular graft versus host disease, microbial keratitis, corneal perforation, bullous keratopathy, dry eye disease, corneal haze following refractive surgery and cross-linking, band keratopathy, ocular surface neoplasia, pterygium surgery, and ligneous conjunctivitis. This review provides an up-to-date overview of amniotic membrane transplantation including the structural and biological properties, preparation and application, clinical indications, and commercially available products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis W B Sanders
- Department of Ophthalmology, Singleton Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, UK
| | - Jinhai Huang
- Eye and ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jorge L Alió Del Barrio
- Division of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain; and Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery Department, VISSUM Corporation, Alicante, Spain
| | - Samer Hamada
- Corneo Plastic Unit and Eye Bank, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK
| | - Colm McAlinden
- Eye and ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Corneo Plastic Unit and Eye Bank, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, UK.
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, UK.
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Lee YF, Yong DWW, Manotosh R. A Review of Contact Lens-Induced Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1490. [PMID: 38132316 PMCID: PMC10740976 DOI: 10.3390/biology12121490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition caused by the dysfunction and destruction of stem cells, stem cell precursors and limbal cell niche in the corneal epithelium, leading to severe conjunctivalization of the cornea. Etiologies for LSCD span from congenital (aniridia), traumatic (chemical or thermal injuries), autoimmune (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) and iatrogenic disease to contact lens (CL) wear. Of these, CL wear is the least understood and is often a subclinical cause of LSCD. Even with recent advances in LSCD research, limitations persist in establishing the pathogenesis and treatment guidelines for CL-induced LSCD. A literature search was conducted to include original articles containing patients with CL-induced LSCD. This review will critically discuss the complex pathophysiology behind CL-induced LSCD, the underlying risk factors and epidemiology of the disease as well as methods to obtain a diagnosis. Various treatment options will be reviewed based on proposed treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yhu Fhei Lee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Dayna Wei Wei Yong
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Ray Manotosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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Said DG, Rallis KI, Al-Aqaba MA, Ting DSJ, Dua HS. Surgical management of infectious keratitis. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:401-412. [PMID: 34592475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The successful management of infectious keratitis is usually achieved with a combination of tools for accurate diagnosis and targeted timely antimicrobial therapy. An armamentarium of surgical interventions is available in the acute stage which can be resorted to in a step wise manner or in combination guided by the response to treatment. Simple surgical modalities can facilitate accurate diagnosis e.g. corneal biopsy and alcohol delamination. Surgery to promote epithelial healing can vary from tarsorrhaphy, amniotic membrane transplantation or conjunctival flaps depending on the extent of infection, visual prognosis, availability of tissue and surgeon's experience. Collagen crosslinking has been increasingly utilized with successful results to strengthen the cornea and reduce the infective load consequently the need for further elaborate surgical interventions. It has shown encouraging results specially in superficial bacterial and fungal keratitis but for deeper infections, viral and acanthamoeba keratitis, its use remains questionable. When globe integrity is compromised, corneal gluing is the most commonly used procedure to seal small perforations. In larger perforations/fulminant infections a tectonic/therapeutic graft is advisable. Partial thickness grafts are increasingly popular to treat superficial infection or internally tamponade perforations. Peripheral therapeutic grafts face challenges with potential requirement for a manually fashioned graft, and increased risk of rejection due to proximity to the limbal vessels. Late stage visual rehabilitation is likely to require further surgical interventions after complete resolution of infection and inflammation. A preliminary assessment of corneal sensation and integrity of the ocular surface are key for any successful surgical intervention to restore vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia G Said
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK; Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | | | - Darren S J Ting
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Harminder S Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Dua HS, Ting DSJ, AlSaadi A, Said DG. Management of limbal stem cell deficiency by amnion-assisted conjunctival epithelial redirection using vacuum-dried amniotic membrane and fibrin glue. Br J Ophthalmol 2023; 107:342-348. [PMID: 34610946 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-318496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the outcome of a modified amnion-assisted conjunctival epithelial redirection (ACER) technique using vacuum-dried amnion (Omnigen) and fibrin glue for managing total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). METHOD A retrospective, interventional case series of all patients with total LSCD who underwent limbal stem cell transplant (LSCT) using the modified ACER procedure between 2016 and 2019. The outcome was defined as: (1) success: complete corneal re-epithelialisation without conjunctivalisation; (2) partial success: sub-total corneal re-epithelialisation with partial non-progressive conjunctivalisation sparing the visual axis and (3) failure: conjunctivalisation affecting the visual axis. RESULTS Ten patients (six men), with a mean age of 46.2±18.4 years, were included. The mean follow-up was 23.0±13.9 months. Causes of LSCD were chemical eye injury (30%), congenital aniridia-related keratopathy (30%), ocular surface malignancy (20%), Steven-Johnson syndrome (10%) and contact lens overuse (10%). 50% were bilateral. The time from diagnosis to ACER (for acquired causes) was 45.6±44.4 months. 80% of patients achieved a complete/partial success following ACER and 20% of patients required repeat LSCT. Auto-LSCT was associated with a significantly higher chance of success than allo-LSCT (p=0.048). The mean best-corrected-visual-acuity (logMAR) improved significantly from 1.76±0.64 preoperatively to 0.94±0.94 at final follow-up (p=0.009). Omnigen was available off-the-shelf stored at room temperature and its transparency enabled visualisation of the healing epithelium beneath. CONCLUSION LSCT using the modified ACER serves as an effective ocular surface reconstruction technique in managing total LSCD and improving vision. Vacuum-dried amnion provides advantages of easy handling, transparency and storage at room temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harminder Singh Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK .,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Darren Shu Jeng Ting
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ahmed AlSaadi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Dalia G Said
- Academic Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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10
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Zhao W, He X, Liu R, Ruan Q. Accelerating corneal wound healing using exosome-mediated targeting of NF-κB c-Rel. Inflamm Regen 2023; 43:6. [PMID: 36703231 PMCID: PMC9881367 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-023-00260-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the corneal epithelium is essential for the maintenance of the physiological function of the cornea. Studies have found that inflammation greatly delays corneal wound healing. NF-κB c-Rel is preferentially expressed by immune cells and promotes the expression of inflammatory cytokines. In the current study, we sought to investigate whether c-Rel could be used as a potential therapeutic target for treating a corneal injury. Our studies reveal that expressions of c-Rel and its inflammatory targets are significantly increased in the cornea of mice with corneal injury. In addition, we find that c-Rel-deficient mice exhibit accelerated corneal wound healing and reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines. Further studies show that topical treatment on the corneal surface using nano-polymers or exosomes loaded with c-Rel-specific siRNA (siRel) can effectively accelerate regular and diabetic corneal wound healing. More importantly, we find that exosomes, as carriers of siRel, showed better efficacy than nano-polymers in treating corneal injury. We further demonstrate that exosomes secreted by mesenchymal stem cells can efficiently transfer siRNA into macrophages and dendritic cells but not T cells. Taken together, these results indicate that blocking c-Rel may represent an attracting strategy for the treatment of both regular and diabetic corneal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Zhao
- grid.410587.fShandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000 China ,grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071 China
| | - Xiaozhen He
- grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071 China ,grid.490473.dEye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250021 China
| | - Ruiling Liu
- grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071 China
| | - Qingguo Ruan
- grid.410638.80000 0000 8910 6733Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071 China
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Lee V, Rompolas P. Corneal regeneration: insights in epithelial stem cell heterogeneity and dynamics. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2022; 77:101981. [PMID: 36084496 PMCID: PMC9938714 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2022.101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of slow-cycling cells at the corneal periphery three decades ago established the limbus as the putative corneal stem cell niche. Since then, studies have underscored the importance of the limbal stem cells in maintaining the health and function of the ocular surface. Advancements in our understanding of stem cell biology have been successfully translated into stem cell therapies for corneal diseases. Here, we review recent developments in mouse genetics, intravital imaging, and single-cell genomics that have revealed an underappreciated complexity of the limbal stem cells, from their molecular identity, function, and interactions with their niche environment. Continued efforts to elucidate stem cell dynamics of this extraordinary tissue are critical for not only understanding stem cell biology but also for advancing therapeutic innovation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Panteleimon Rompolas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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12
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Ying PX, Fu M, Huang C, Li ZH, Mao QY, Fu S, Jia XH, Cao YC, Hong LB, Cai LY, Guo X, Liu RB, Meng FK, Yi GG. Profile of biological characterizations and clinical application of corneal stem/progenitor cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:777-797. [PMID: 36483848 PMCID: PMC9724387 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i11.777] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal stem/progenitor cells are typical adult stem/progenitor cells. The human cornea covers the front of the eyeball, which protects the eye from the outside environment while allowing vision. The location and function demand the cornea to maintain its transparency and to continuously renew its epithelial surface by replacing injured or aged cells through a rapid turnover process in which corneal stem/progenitor cells play an important role. Corneal stem/progenitor cells include mainly corneal epithelial stem cells, corneal endothelial cell progenitors and corneal stromal stem cells. Since the discovery of corneal epithelial stem cells (also known as limbal stem cells) in 1971, an increasing number of markers for corneal stem/progenitor cells have been proposed, but there is no consensus regarding the definitive markers for them. Therefore, the identification, isolation and cultivation of these cells remain challenging without a unified approach. In this review, we systematically introduce the profile of biological characterizations, such as anatomy, characteristics, isolation, cultivation and molecular markers, and clinical applications of the three categories of corneal stem/progenitor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Xi Ying
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chang Huang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Li
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Shock and Microcirculation, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510550, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qing-Yi Mao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng Fu
- Hengyang Medical School, The University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xu-Hui Jia
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yu-Chen Cao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Bing Hong
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li-Yang Cai
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xi Guo
- Medical College of Rehabilitation, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ru-Bing Liu
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fan-ke Meng
- Emergency Department, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Guo Yi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, Guangdong Province, China
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13
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Corneal Epithelial Regeneration: Old and New Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113114. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal blindness is the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide, and therapeutic options are still often limited to corneal transplantation. The corneal epithelium has a strong barrier function, and regeneration is highly dependent on limbal stem cell proliferation and basement membrane remodeling. As a result of the lack of corneal donor tissues, regenerative medicine for corneal diseases affecting the epithelium is an area with quite advanced basic and clinical research. Surgery still plays a prominent role in the treatment of epithelial diseases; indeed, innovative surgical techniques have been developed to transplant corneal and non-corneal stem cells onto diseased corneas for epithelial regeneration applications. The main goal of applying regenerative medicine to clinical practice is to restore function by providing viable cells based on the use of a novel therapeutic approach to generate biological substitutes and improve tissue functions. Interest in corneal epithelium rehabilitation medicine is rapidly growing, given the exposure of the corneal outer layers to external insults. Here, we performed a review of basic, clinical and surgical research reports on regenerative medicine for corneal epithelial disorders, classifying therapeutic approaches according to their macro- or microscopic target, i.e., into cellular or subcellular therapies, respectively.
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Viestenz A, Kesper C, Hammer T, Heinzelmann J, Foja S, Viestenz A. ALT (allogeneic limbal transplantation): a new surgical technique for limbal stem cell deficiency. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 42:3749-3762. [PMID: 35984558 PMCID: PMC9617846 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02373-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a rare but extremely relevant disease of the eye. LSCD patients often require a variety of surgical procedures, including keratoplasty in some cases. However, the outcome of these surgeries, including opacification and revascularization, is often frustrating due to LSCD relapse. Methods We developed a new surgical technique for the treatment of LSCD in which partial allogenic limbal transplantation (ALT) is carried out as part of penetrating keratoplasty (PK). After the PK, 1–8 slices from the limbal tissue of the donor graft are prepared and placed under the double running sutures attaching the corneal graft. This procedure was performed on 14 patients with LSCD, caused by severe ocular burn in 5 cases and by infection in 9. Between one and eight limbal transplants were used depending on the extension of the LSCD. Results All 14 patients showed stable or increased visual acuity after the ALT surgery compared to their preoperative visual acuity. All of the grafts were integrated into the superficial corneal layers without progression of corneal vascularization beyond the limbal grafts. The median follow-up period was 12 months on average. Conclusion The ALT method seems to be a promising surgical procedure for the treatment of patients with LSCD. It can be properly carried out in the context of keratoplasty and does not require a separate donor tissue. The ALT grafts may offer the possibility of constructing a new limbal region, resulting in stable or even increased visual acuity and the absence of corneal vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Viestenz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany.
| | - Christiane Kesper
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Thomas Hammer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Joana Heinzelmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Sabine Foja
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Arne Viestenz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube Straße 40, 06120, Halle, Germany
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Zhu L, Zhang W, Zhu J, Chen C, Mo K, Guo H, Wu S, Huang H, Li L, Li M, Tan J, Huang Y, Wang L, Ouyang H. Cotransplantation of Limbal Epithelial and Stromal Cells for Ocular Surface Reconstruction. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2022; 2:100148. [PMID: 36249679 PMCID: PMC9560570 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2022.100148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To propose an improved stem cell-based strategy for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) treatment. Design Experimental randomized or parallel-group animal study. Subjects Fifty adult male New Zealand white rabbits. Methods Human limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs) and limbal stromal stem/progenitor cells (LSSCs) were cultured in serum-free conditions and further differentiated into corneal epithelial cells and keratocytes, respectively. All cell types were characterized with lineage-specific markers. Gene expression analysis was performed to identify the potential function of LSSCs in corneal regeneration. Two LSCD models of rabbits for transplantations were used: transplantation performed at the time of limbal and corneal epithelial excision (LSCD model) and transplantation performed after clinical signs were induced in an LSCD model (pLSCD model). The pLSCD model better mimics the pathologic changes and symptoms of human LSCD. Rabbit models received LSC or LSC plus LSSC treatment. Corneal epithelial defects, neovascularization, and opacity were assessed every 3 weeks for 24 weeks. ZsGreen-labeled LSSCs were used for short-term tracking in vivo. Main Outcome Measures Rates of corneal epithelial defect area, corneal neovascularization and opacity scores, graft survival rate, and immunofluorescence staining of specific markers. Results Both LSC transplantation and LSC plus LSSC cotransplantation effectively repaired the corneal surface in the LSCD model. These 2 strategies showed no significant differences in terms of graft survival rate or epithelial repair. However, corneal opacity was observed in the LSC group (in 3 of 8 rabbits), but not in the LSC plus LSSC group. Notably, when treating LSCD rabbits with distinguishable stromal opacification and neovascularization, cotransplantation of LSCs and LSSCs exhibited significantly better therapeutic effects than transplantation of LSCs alone, with graft survival rates of 87.5% and 37.5%, respectively. The implanted LSSCs could differentiate into keratocytes during the wound-healing process. RNA sequencing analysis showed that the stromal cells produced not only a collagen-rich extracellular matrix to facilitate reconstruction of the lamellar structure, but also niche factors that accelerated epithelial cell growth and inhibited angiogenesis and inflammation. Conclusions These findings highlight the support of stromal cells in niche homeostasis and tissue regeneration, providing LSC plus LSSC cotransplantation as a new treatment strategy for corneal blindness.
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Corneal stromal repair and regeneration. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101090. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Direct oral mucosal epithelial transplantation supplies stem cells and promotes corneal wound healing to treat refractory persistent corneal epithelial defects. Exp Eye Res 2022; 215:108934. [PMID: 35007520 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108934] [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: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Persistent corneal epithelial defects (PED) can lead to irreversible blindness, seriously affecting the social function and life quality of these patients. When it comes to refractory PED, such as limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), that does not respond to standard managements, stem cell therapy is an ideal method. Oral mucosal epithelium (OME) abundant with stem cells within the base, is a promising autologous biomaterial, with much resemblance to corneal epithelial structures. In this experiment, uncultured autologous rat OME was directly applied to alkali burned corneas. Clinical evaluations and histological analyses showed that the transplantation accelerated the healing process, presenting faster re-epithelization and better formation of corneal epithelial barrier. To further investigate the therapeutic mechanism, oral epithelium was transplanted to de-epithelialized cornea in vitro for organ culture. It could be observed that the oral epithelial cells could migrate to the corneal surface and form smooth and stratified epithelium. Immunofluorescence staining results showed that the re-formed epithelium derived from OME, maintained stemness and transformed to corneal epithelial phenotype to some extent. Corneal stroma may provide the suitable microenvironment to promote the trans-differentiation of oral stem cells. Thus, both in vivo and in vitro experiments suggested that oral epithelium could play a positive role in treating refractory PED.
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Zhou Q, Yang L, Wang Q, Li Y, Wei C, Xie L. Mechanistic investigations of diabetic ocular surface diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1079541. [PMID: 36589805 PMCID: PMC9800783 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1079541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
With the global prevalence of diabetes mellitus over recent decades, more patients suffered from various diabetic complications, including diabetic ocular surface diseases that may seriously affect the quality of life and even vision sight. The major diabetic ocular surface diseases include diabetic keratopathy and dry eye. Diabetic keratopathy is characterized with the delayed corneal epithelial wound healing, reduced corneal nerve density, decreased corneal sensation and feeling of burning or dryness. Diabetic dry eye is manifested as the reduction of tear secretion accompanied with the ocular discomfort. The early clinical symptoms include dry eye and corneal nerve degeneration, suggesting the early diagnosis should be focused on the examination of confocal microscopy and dry eye symptoms. The pathogenesis of diabetic keratopathy involves the accumulation of advanced glycation end-products, impaired neurotrophic innervations and limbal stem cell function, and dysregulated growth factor signaling, and inflammation alterations. Diabetic dry eye may be associated with the abnormal mitochondrial metabolism of lacrimal gland caused by the overactivation of sympathetic nervous system. Considering the important roles of the dense innervations in the homeostatic maintenance of cornea and lacrimal gland, further studies on the neuroepithelial and neuroimmune interactions will reveal the predominant pathogenic mechanisms and develop the targeting intervention strategies of diabetic ocular surface complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lingling Yang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ya Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chao Wei
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Lixin Xie,
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The Historical Development and an Overview of Contemporary Keratoprostheses. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:1175-1199. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Zhao S, Wan X, Yao W, Xu J, Le Q. Trends of Corneal Transplantation in Adults from 2010 to 2019 in East China: A 10-Year Experience. Ophthalmic Res 2021; 65:30-39. [PMID: 34587612 DOI: 10.1159/000519824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to provide an overview of trends in the indications and surgical techniques for corneal transplantation in adults in East China from 2010 to 2019. METHODS The medical charts of all patients (aged ≥18 years old) undergoing keratoplasty at the Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital of Fudan University between January 2010 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The indications for keratoplasty and the surgical techniques were collected. RESULTS A total of 2,929 cases were included. Acquired nontraumatic corneal diseases (n = 1,927, 65.8%) have been the leading indication for corneal transplantation during the past decade. Although infectious keratitis was still the leading indication among acquired nontraumatic diseases, its absolute number and proportion gradually decreased during this decade (p < 0.001). In contrast, the proportion of endothelial dysfunction/bullous keratopathy increased from 7.8% in 2010 to 12.4% in 2019 (p = 0.029). Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) has been the predominant surgical technique (n = 1,854, 63.3%), followed by deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) (n = 361, 12.3%) and endothelial keratoplasty (EK) (n = 305, 10.4%). Nevertheless, the proportion of PKP decreased from 77.6% in 2010 to 56.9% in 2019 (p = 0.002) and was gradually replaced by DALK (from 7.8% to 16.3%, p < 0.001) and EK (from 3.4% to 10.4%, p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS Over the past decade, infectious keratitis and endothelial dysfunction/bullous keratopathy have been the leading indications for keratoplasty in adults. Preferred surgical techniques for keratoplasty have been shifting from PKP to more customized lamellar keratoplasties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songjiao Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xichen Wan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wang Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianjiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Myopia Key Laboratory of Ministry of Health, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qihua Le
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Myopia Key Laboratory of Ministry of Health, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Research Center, Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Goals and Challenges of Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Corneal Blindness Due to Limbal Deficiency. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091483. [PMID: 34575560 PMCID: PMC8466237 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal failure is a highly prevalent cause of blindness. One special cause of corneal failure occurs due to malfunction or destruction of the limbal stem cell niche, upon which the superficial cornea depends for homeostatic maintenance and wound healing. Failure of the limbal niche is referred to as limbal stem cell deficiency. As the corneal epithelial stem cell niche is easily accessible, limbal stem cell-based therapy and regenerative medicine applied to the ocular surface are among the most highly advanced forms of this novel approach to disease therapy. However, the challenges are still great, including the development of cell-based products and understanding how they work in the patient's eye. Advances are being made at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels to alter disease processes and to reduce or eliminate blindness. Efforts must be coordinated from the most basic research to the most clinically oriented projects so that cell-based therapies can become an integrated part of the therapeutic armamentarium to fight corneal blindness. We undoubtedly are progressing along the right path because cell-based therapy for eye diseases is one of the most successful examples of global regenerative medicine.
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22
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Corneal Epithelial Stem Cells-Physiology, Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092302. [PMID: 34571952 PMCID: PMC8465583 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the human cornea, regeneration of the epithelium is regulated by the stem cell reservoir of the limbus, which is the marginal region of the cornea representing the anatomical and functional border between the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. In support of this concept, extensive limbal damage, e.g., by chemical or thermal injury, inflammation, or surgery, may induce limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) leading to vascularization and opacification of the cornea and eventually vision loss. These acquired forms of limbal stem cell deficiency may occur uni- or bilaterally, which is important for the choice of treatment. Moreover, a variety of inherited diseases, such as congenital aniridia or dyskeratosis congenita, are characterized by LSCD typically occurring bilaterally. Several techniques of autologous and allogenic stem cell transplantation have been established. The limbus can be restored by transplantation of whole limbal grafts, small limbal biopsies or by ex vivo-expanded limbal cells. In this review, the physiology of the corneal epithelium, the pathophysiology of LSCD, and the therapeutic options will be presented.
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Pannu A, Sati A, Mishra SK, Kumar S, Dhar S. Innovative technique of mini-simple limbal epithelial transplantation in pediatric patients. Indian J Ophthalmol 2021; 69:2222-2224. [PMID: 34304214 PMCID: PMC8482941 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_2834_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In this article, we introduce a modified technique of minor ipsilateral simple limbal epithelial transplantation (mini-SLET) in pediatric patients of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Two children with unilateral partial LSCD underwent the innovative technique of mini-SLET, where harvested limbal tissues were placed over the raw cornea and were covered with amniotic membrane. Both patients were followed till 9 months. Both cases showed favorable outcome and uneventful recovery. Results were comparable with the classical technique. This innovative modification of mini-SLET is safe, feasible, and an effective alternative with favorable visual outcome especially in pediatric population. It can be a breakthrough for LSCD management in developing countries with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anju Pannu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Alok Sati
- Department of Ophthalmology, Army Hospital, Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Mishra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Army Hospital, Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, India
| | - Sonali Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Army Hospital, Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Dhar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Army Hospital, Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, India
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Singh V, Tiwari A, Kethiri AR, Sangwan VS. Current perspectives of limbal-derived stem cells and its application in ocular surface regeneration and limbal stem cell transplantation. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:1121-1128. [PMID: 33951336 PMCID: PMC8284782 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells are involved in replenishing and maintaining the epithelium of the cornea. Damage to the limbus due to chemical/physical injury, infections, or genetic disorders leads to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) with partial or total vision loss. Presently, LSCD is treated by transplanting limbal stem cells from the healthy eye of the recipient, living-related, or cadaveric donors. This review discusses limbal-derived stem cells, the importance of extracellular matrix in stem cell niche maintenance, the historical perspective of treating LSCD, including related advantages and limitations, and our experience of limbal stem cell transplantation over the decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Singh
- Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Center for Ocular Regeneration, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Anil Tiwari
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Cornea and Uveitis, Dr. Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Abhinav Reddy Kethiri
- Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Center for Ocular Regeneration, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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Paterson TE, Dhowre HS, Villanueva D, Holland JW, Reddy Kethiri A, Singh V, Claeyssens F, MacNeil S, Ortega Asencio I. Tuning Electrospun Substrate Stiffness for the Fabrication of a Biomimetic Amniotic Membrane Substitute for Corneal Healing. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:5638-5649. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E. Paterson
- Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - Hala S. Dhowre
- School of Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TA, United Kingdom
| | - Danilo Villanueva
- School of Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TA, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph W. Holland
- School of Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TA, United Kingdom
| | - Abhinav Reddy Kethiri
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, India
| | - Frederik Claeyssens
- The Kroto Research Institute, North Campus, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila MacNeil
- The Kroto Research Institute, North Campus, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom
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Prabhasawat P, Chirapapaisan C, Ngowyutagon P, Ekpo P, Tangpagasit W, Lekhanont K, Sikarinkul R, Matamnan S, Boonwong C, Pinitpuwadol W, Thamphithak R, Sukon N, Neti N. Efficacy and outcome of simple limbal epithelial transplantation for limbal stem cell deficiency verified by epithelial phenotypes integrated with clinical evaluation. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:27-37. [PMID: 34214675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy and outcome of simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) using epithelial phenotype detection integrated with clinical manifestation. METHODS This prospective multicenter study included patients with LSCD who underwent autologous SLET (autoSLET) and living-related allogenic SLET (Lr-alloSLET). All patients were assessed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM), and impression cytology with immunofluorescence staining (ICIF) before and after surgery. The criteria for success were the presence of a clinically non-conjunctivalized cornea and corneal epithelium detected by IVCM or ICIF. Otherwise, the case would be considered a failure. Visual improvement and risk factors for SLET failure were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 28 eyes of 26 patients (11 autoSLET and 17 Lr-alloSLET) were included. The median age was 53 years (range, 35-63), and the follow-up time was 29.5 months (range, 17.5-39.8). The overall survival rate was 89.3% at 2 years and 75.6% at 3 years with no difference between autoSLET and Lr-alloSLET (p = 0.24). Seven eyes subsequently underwent penetrating keratoplasty. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that all corneal buttons had corneal epithelium and limbal stem cell markers. Visual improvement was achieved in both SLET groups (p < 0.001). Failed SLET developed between 5 and 32 months postoperatively. However, absolute risk factors for SLET failure were unidentified. CONCLUSION The efficacy of autoSLET and Lr-alloSLET for LSCD was excellent. Limbal explants can regenerate and restore the corneal surface while maintaining the characteristics of limbal stem cells as shown by epithelial phenotype detection and immunohistochemistry integrated with clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinnita Prabhasawat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chareenun Chirapapaisan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Panotsom Ngowyutagon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pattama Ekpo
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Research Division, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wimolwan Tangpagasit
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Prathumthani, Thailand
| | - Kaevalin Lekhanont
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Rosanun Sikarinkul
- Department of Ophthalmology, Golden Jubilee Medical Center, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Sutthicha Matamnan
- Research Division, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chawikan Boonwong
- Research Division, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Warinyupa Pinitpuwadol
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ranida Thamphithak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nutchaya Sukon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nutnicha Neti
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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An X, Wang G, Jin M, Zhou X, Gao S, Chen J, Reinach PS, Liu Z, Xue Y, Li C. Novel Cell Culture Paradigm Prolongs Mouse Corneal Epithelial Cell Proliferative Activity in vitro and in vivo. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:675998. [PMID: 34277619 PMCID: PMC8278007 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.675998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been a long-standing challenge to obtain from cell cultures adequate amounts of mouse corneal epithelial cells (mCEC) to perform transplantation surgery. This limitation is attributable to the passage dependent declines in their proliferative activity. We describe here development of a novel 6C medium that contains six different modulators of different signaling pathways, which control proliferative mCEC activity. Its usage shortens the time and effort required to obtain epithelial sheets for hastening healing of an epithelial wound in an experimental animal model. This serum-free 6C medium contains:Y27632, forskolin, SB431542, DAPT, IWP-2, LDN-193189 and also DermaLife K keratinocyte calcium. Their inclusion inhibits rises in four specific markers of epithelial mesenchymal transdifferentiation:ZEB1/2, Snail, β-catenin and α-SMA. This medium is applied in a feeder-free air-lifted system to obtain sufficient populations of epithelial progenitor cells whose procurement is facilitated due to suppression of progenitor epithelial cell transdifferentiation into epithelial-mesenchymal cells. Diminution of this decline in transdifferentiation was confirmed based on the invariance of P63, K14, Pax6, and K12 gene expression levels. This cell culture technique is expected to facilitate ex vivo characterization of mechanisms underlying cell fate determination. Furthermore, its implementation will improve yields of progenitor mouse corneal epithelial cells, which increases the likelihood of using these cells as a source to generate epithelial sheets for performing transplantation surgery to treat limbal stem cell deficiency in a clinical setting. In addition, the novel insight obtainable from such studies is expected to improve the outcomes of corneal regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya An
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Guoliang Wang
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Xiamen, China
| | - Mengyi Jin
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhou
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Shubin Gao
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jingyao Chen
- Yan'An Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Peter S Reinach
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Xiamen, China
| | - Yuhua Xue
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Xiamen, China
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Tong CM, He B, Iovieno A, Yeung SN. Diagnosis and management of limbal stem cell deficiency, challenges, and future prospects. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2021.1933441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Maya Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bonnie He
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alfonso Iovieno
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sonia N. Yeung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Wang Y, Hu X, Yang K, Zhang Y, Deng S, Wang Z, Li S, Tian L, Jie Y. Clinical outcomes of modified simple limbal epithelial transplantation for limbal stem cell deficiency in Chinese population: a retrospective case series. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:259. [PMID: 33933149 PMCID: PMC8088623 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02345-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To report the clinical outcomes of a novel surgical technique, namely simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET), for the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Methods Thirteen patients (13 eyes) with LSCD who underwent autologous (10 eyes) or allogeneic (3 eyes) modified SLET between 2018 and 2021 were enrolled in this study. Grades of symblepharon, corneal conjunctivalization, vascularization, opacification, and visual acuity (VA) were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. In 2 cases, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and impression cytology (IC) were performed to assess the proliferation and degeneration of limbal tissue. Results At a postoperative follow-up of 6.5±5.3 (range, 2–20) months, 10 (10/13, 76.92%) eyes maintained a successful outcome. The grades of symblepharon, corneal conjunctivalization, vascularization, and opacification were significantly improved after SLET (P<0.05). Two-line improvement in VA was found in 6 (6/10, 60%) eyes of the successful cases. Recurrence of LSCD occurred in 3 (3/13, 23.08%) eyes, and conjunctival cyst occurred in 1 patient. After SLET, the morphology and structure of corneal epithelial cells and epithelial transition around the limbal tissue fragments were detected by IVCM and IC. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the SLET is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of LSCD. The corneal stroma and hAM can provide protection and nutrition for the limbal stem cells (LSCs) without negatively influencing the clinical outcomes. IVCM and IC after SLET can evaluate the effectiveness of surgery and the transition of LSCs and corneal epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghui Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaodan Hu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ke Yang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Shijing Deng
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhiqun Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Shang Li
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lei Tian
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Ying Jie
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Process development and safety evaluation of ABCB5 + limbal stem cells as advanced-therapy medicinal product to treat limbal stem cell deficiency. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:194. [PMID: 33741066 PMCID: PMC7980611 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02272-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While therapeutic success of the limbal tissue or cell transplantation to treat severe cases of limbal stem cell (LSC) deficiency (LSCD) strongly depends on the percentage of LSCs within the transplanted cells, prospective LSC enrichment has been hampered by the intranuclear localization of the previously reported LSC marker p63. The recent identification of the ATP-binding cassette transporter ABCB5 as a plasma membrane-spanning marker of LSCs that are capable of restoring the cornea and the development of an antibody directed against an extracellular loop of the ABCB5 molecule stimulated us to develop a novel treatment strategy based on the utilization of in vitro expanded allogeneic ABCB5+ LSCs derived from human cadaveric limbal tissue. Methods We developed and validated a Good Manufacturing Practice- and European Pharmacopeia-conform production and quality-control process, by which ABCB5+ LSCs are derived from human corneal rims, expanded ex vivo, isolated as homogenous cell population, and manufactured as an advanced-therapy medicinal product (ATMP). This product was tested in a preclinical study program investigating the cells’ engraftment potential, biodistribution behavior, and safety. Results ABCB5+ LSCs were reliably expanded and manufactured as an ATMP that contains comparably high percentages of cells expressing transcription factors critical for LSC stemness maintenance (p63) and corneal epithelial differentiation (PAX6). Preclinical studies confirmed local engraftment potential of the cells and gave no signals of toxicity and tumorgenicity. These findings were sufficient for the product to be approved by the German Paul Ehrlich Institute and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to be tested in an international multicenter phase I/IIa clinical trial (NCT03549299) to evaluate the safety and therapeutic efficacy in patients with LSCD. Conclusion Building upon these data in conjunction with the previously shown cornea-restoring capacity of human ABCB5+ LSCs in animal models of LSCD, we provide an advanced allogeneic LSC-based treatment strategy that shows promise for replenishment of the patient’s LSC pool, recreation of a functional barrier against invading conjunctival cells and restoration of a transparent, avascular cornea. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02272-2.
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Thokala P, Singh A, Singh VK, Rathi VM, Basu S, Singh V, MacNeil S, Sangwan VS. Economic, clinical and social impact of simple limbal epithelial transplantation for limbal stem cell deficiency. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:923-928. [PMID: 33688000 PMCID: PMC9234414 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-318642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Aims To report the global uptake of simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) and compare the economic, clinical and social outcomes of SLET with those of cultured limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET). Methods A comprehensive literature review and an online survey of eye surgeons were conducted to understand the efficacy and current uptake of SLET surgery. A de novo economic model was developed to estimate the cost savings with SLET compared with CLET. Our economic analysis is conducted from an Indian perspective, as this is where the technique originated. A scenario analysis using the UK cost data and a user-friendly Excel model is included to allow users to input the costs from their setting to estimate the cost savings with using SLET compared with using CLET Results The anatomical success with SLET in adults (72.6% (range 62%–80%)) was the same as CLET (70.4% (range 68%–80.9%)). For children, the outcome for SLET (77.8% (range 73%–83%)) was better than with CLET (44.5% (range 43%–45%)). In response to our informal questionnaire, 99 surgeons reported to have performed SLET on 1174 patients in total. They appreciated that SLET negates the requirement for costly tissue engineering facilities. Results of economic analysis suggested that SLET provided an estimated cost-savings of US$6470.88 for adults and US$6673.10 for children. In broad terms, the cost of SLET is approximately 10% of the cost of CLET for adults and 8% for children. Conclusion SLET offers a more accessible and financially attractive alternative to CLET to treat limbal stem cell deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Thokala
- Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield School of Health and Related Research, Sheffield, UK
| | - Aastha Singh
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Singh
- Brien Holden Eye Research Center, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.,Centre for Ocular Regeneration, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Varsha M Rathi
- Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eyecare, The Cornea Institute, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- Brien Holden Eye Research Center, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.,Cornea and Anterior Segment Services, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Brien Holden Eye Research Center, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India .,Centre for Ocular Regeneration, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sheila MacNeil
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, The University of Sheffield Kroto Research Institute, Sheffield, UK
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Long term observation of ocular surface alkali burn in rabbit models: Quantitative analysis of corneal haze, vascularity and self-recovery. Exp Eye Res 2021; 205:108526. [PMID: 33662355 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency (LSCD), caused due to corneal injury, primarily by chemical/alkali burns, leads to compromised vision. Recently, several animal models of corneal alkali burn injury have become available. The majority of the studies with these animal models start interventions soon after the injury. However, in the clinical setting, there is a considerable delay before the intervention is initiated. Detailed knowledge of the molecular, histopathological, and clinical parameters associated with the progression of the injury leading to LSCD is highly desirable. In this context, we set out to investigate clinical, histopathological parameters of ocular surface alkali burn over a long period of time, post-injury. Limbal stem cell-deficient animal models of rabbits were created by alkali burn using sodium hydroxide, which was then assessed for their progression towards LSCD by grading the alkali burn, corneal haze, and vascularization. Additionally, cells present on the corneal surface after the burn was investigated by histology and immunophenotyping. Grading of rabbit eyes post-alkali burn had shown complete conjunctivalization in 80% (n = 12/15) of the rabbits with the alkali burn grade score of 3.88 ± 0.29 in three months and remained stable at four months (4.12 ± 0.24). However, ocular surface showed self-healing in 20% (n = 3/15) of the rabbits with a score of 1.67 ± 0.34 in four months irrespective of similar alkali injury. These self-healing corneas exhibited decreased opacity score from 2.51 ± 0.39 to 0.66 ± 0.22 (p = 0.002) and regressed vascularity from 1.66 ± 0.41 to 0.66 ± 0.33 in one to nine months, respectively. Restoration of the corneal phenotype (CK3+) was observed in central and mid-peripheral regions of the self-healing corneas, and histology revealed the localization of inflammatory cells to the peripheral cornea when compared to conjunctivalized and scarred LSCD eyes. Our study shows the essentiality to consider the time required for surgical intervention after the corneal alkali injury in rabbit models as evident from their tendency to self-heal and restore corneal phenotype without therapy. Such information on the possibility of self-healing should be useful in further studies as well as determining interventional timings and strategy during clinical presentation of corneal alkali burns.
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Beeken LJ, Ting DS, Sidney LE. Potential of mesenchymal stem cells as topical immunomodulatory cell therapies for ocular surface inflammatory disorders. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:39-49. [PMID: 32896982 PMCID: PMC7780815 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular surface inflammatory disorders (OSIDs) are a group of highly prevalent, heterogeneous diseases that display a variety of aetiologies and symptoms and are risk factors for serious complications, including ocular and cornea impairment. Corneal inflammation is a common factor of all OSIDs, regardless of their cause or symptoms. Current medications include over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, corticosteroids, and ciclosporin, which either do not treat the corneal inflammation or have been associated with multiple side effects leading to alternative treatments being sought. Regenerative medicine cell therapies, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have shown great promise for immunosuppression and disease amelioration across multiple tissues, including the cornea. However, for successful development and clinical translation of MSC therapy for OSIDs, significant problems must be addressed. This review aims to highlight considerations, including whether the source of MSC isolation impacts the efficacy and safety of the therapy, in addition to assessing the feasibility of MSC topical application to the cornea and ocular surface through analysis of potential scaffolds and cell carriers for application to the eye. The literature contains limited data assessing MSCs incorporated into scaffolds for corneal administration, thus here we highlight the necessity of further investigations to truly exploit the potential of an MSC-based cell therapy for the treatment of OSIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia J. Beeken
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre CampusNottinghamUK
| | - Darren S.J. Ting
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre CampusNottinghamUK
| | - Laura E. Sidney
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre CampusNottinghamUK
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Xiao YT, Xie HT, Liu X, Duan CY, Qu JY, Zhang MC, Zhao XY. Subconjunctival Injection of Transdifferentiated Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells for Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency in Rats. J Histochem Cytochem 2020; 69:177-190. [PMID: 33345682 DOI: 10.1369/0022155420980071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rat limbal niche cells (LNCs) have been proven to induce transdifferentiation of oral mucosal epithelial cells (OMECs) into corneal epithelial-like cells termed transdifferentiated oral mucosal epithelial cells (T-OMECs). This investigation aimed to evaluate the effect of subconjunctival T-OMEC injections on alkali-induced limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) in rats. LNCs were cocultured with OMECs in the Transwell system to obtain T-OMECs, with NIH-3T3 cells serving as a control. Subconjunctival injection of single T-OMEC or OMEC suspension was performed immediately after corneal alkali injury. T-OMECs were prelabeled with the fluorescent dye CM-DiI in vitro and tracked in vivo. Corneal epithelial defect, opacity, and neovascularization were quantitatively analyzed. The degree of corneal epithelial defect (from day 1 onward), opacity (from day 5 onward), and neovascularization (from day 2 onward) was significantly less in the T-OMEC group than in the OMEC group. Cytokeratin 12 (CK12), pigment epithelium-derived factor, and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 were expressed at a higher rate following T-OMEC injection. Some CM-DiI-labeled cells were found to be coexpressed with CK12, Pax6, and ΔNp63α in the corneal epithelium after subconjunctival injection. Subconjunctival injection of T-OMECs prevents conjunctival invasion and maintains a normal corneal phenotype, which might be a novel strategy in the treatment of LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing-Yu Qu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Iyer G, Srinivasan B, Agarwal S, Agarwal M, Matai H. Surgical Management of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2020; 9:512-523. [PMID: 33323706 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency is challenging. Multiple options can be adopted according to the underlying cause and the patient and physician preferences. Stem cell transplant is a common treatment modality and several techniques have been described with outcomes varying by the laterality of the condition. Keratoprosthesis is a preferred option for bilateral conditions. Indications for type 1 and type 2 keratoprosthesis differ and the past 2 decades have seen a revolution in the field of keratoprosthesis with encouraging and improved outcomes. Management also includes preventive measures and measures to optimize/stabilize the ocular surface that would go a long way in reducing the deterioration of the ocular surface. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the currently available techniques and to present a comprehensive algorithm to assist in decision making for unilateral and bilateral limbal stem cell deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetha Iyer
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Dr. G. Sitalakshmi Memorial Clinic for Ocular Surface Disorders, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Pedrotti E, Chierego C, Cozzini T, Merz T, Lagali N, De Gregorio A, Fasolo A, Bonacci E, Bonetto J, Marchini G. In Vivo Confocal Microscopy of the Corneal-Conjunctival Transition in the Evaluation of Epithelial Renewal after SLET. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113574. [PMID: 33171960 PMCID: PMC7694659 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Examination of the corneal surface by in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) allows for objective identification of corneal and conjunctival cell phenotypes to evaluate different epithelialization patterns. Detection of a corneal-conjunctival epithelial transition could be considered as a sign of restored epithelial function following simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET). This is a prospective, interventional case series. We assessed patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) by IVCM, preoperatively and at monthly intervals following SLET. Sectors in the central and peripheral cornea were scanned. Immediately upon detection of multi-layered cells with the epithelial phenotype in the central cornea and confirmation of epithelial transition in all corneal sectors, the decision for keratoplasty was taken. Ten patients were enrolled. After SLET, epithelial phenotype in the central cornea and an epithelial transition were identified within six and nine months in seven and one patients, respectively. One patient was a partial success and one failed. Five patients underwent keratoplasty, with stable results up to 12 months. Identification of the epithelial transition zone by IVCM permits assessment of the efficacy of SLET, enabling subsequent planning of keratoplasty for visual rehabilitation. The stability of the corneal surface following keratoplasty confirms that the renewal of the corneal epithelium was effectively retained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Pedrotti
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Chiara Chierego
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Tiziano Cozzini
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-045-812-6129; Fax: +39-045-812-6175
| | - Tommaso Merz
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Neil Lagali
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, BKV, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Alessandra De Gregorio
- Ophthalmic Unit, San Bassiano Hospital, Via dei Lotti, 40, 36061 Bassano del Grappa, Italy;
| | - Adriano Fasolo
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
- The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Padiglione G. Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, 30174 Zelarino Venezia, Italy
| | - Erika Bonacci
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Jacopo Bonetto
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Giorgio Marchini
- Ophthalmic Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, P.le L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (T.M.); (A.F.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (G.M.)
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Gouveia RM, Connon CJ. Biomechanical Modulation Therapy-A Stem Cell Therapy Without Stem Cells for the Treatment of Severe Ocular Burns. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:5. [PMID: 33240564 PMCID: PMC7671857 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.12.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular injuries caused by chemical and thermal burns are often unmanageable and frequently result in disfigurement, corneal haze/opacification, and vision loss. Currently, a considerable number of surgical and pharmacological approaches are available to treat such injuries at either an acute or a chronic stage. However, these existing interventions are mainly directed at (and limited to) suppressing corneal inflammation and neovascularization while promoting re-epithelialization. Reconstruction of the ocular surface represents a suitable but last-option recourse in cases where epithelial healing is severely impaired, such as due to limbal stem cell deficiency. In this concise review, we discuss how biomechanical modulation therapy (BMT) may represent a more effective approach to promoting the regeneration of ocular tissues affected by burn injuries via restoration of the limbal stem cell niche. Specifically, the scientific basis supporting this new therapeutic modality is described, along with our growing understanding of the role that tissue biomechanics plays in stem cell fate and function. The potential impact of BMT as a future treatment option for the management of injuries affecting tissue compliance is also further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo M Gouveia
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Che J Connon
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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38
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Priyadarsini S, Whelchel A, Nicholas S, Sharif R, Riaz K, Karamichos D. Diabetic keratopathy: Insights and challenges. Surv Ophthalmol 2020; 65:513-529. [PMID: 32092364 PMCID: PMC8116932 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ocular complications from diabetes mellitus are common. Diabetic keratopathy, the most frequent clinical condition affecting the human cornea, is a potentially sight-threatening condition caused mostly by epithelial disturbances that are of clinical and research attention because of their severity. Diabetic keratopathy exhibits several clinical manifestations, including persistent corneal epithelial erosion, superficial punctate keratopathy, delayed epithelial regeneration, and decreased corneal sensitivity, that may lead to compromised visual acuity or permanent vision loss. The limited amount of clinical studies makes it difficult to fully understand the pathobiology of diabetic keratopathy. Effective therapeutic approaches are elusive. We summarize the clinical manifestations of diabetic keratopathy and discuss available treatments and up-to-date research studies in an attempt to provide a thorough overview of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Priyadarsini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - A Whelchel
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - S Nicholas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - R Sharif
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - K Riaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - D Karamichos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.
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39
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Tseng SCG, Chen SY, Mead OG, Tighe S. Niche regulation of limbal epithelial stem cells: HC-HA/PTX3 as surrogate matrix niche. Exp Eye Res 2020; 199:108181. [PMID: 32795525 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Homeostasis of the corneal epithelium is ultimately maintained by stem cells that reside in a specialized microenvironment within the corneal limbus termed palisades of Vogt. This limbal niche nourishes, protects, and regulates quiescence, self-renewal, and fate decision of limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LEPCs) toward corneal epithelial differentiation. This review focuses on our current understanding of the mechanism by which limbal (stromal) niche cells (LNCs) regulate the aforementioned functions of LEPCs. Based on our discovery and characterization of a unique extracellular matrix termed HC-HA/PTX3 (Heavy chain (HC1)-hyaluronan (HA)/pentraxin 3 (PTX3) complex, "-" denotes covalent linkage; "/" denotes non-covalent binding) in the birth tissue, i.e., amniotic membrane and umbilical cord, we put forth a new paradigm that HC-HA/PTX3 serves as a surrogate matrix niche by maintaining the in vivo nuclear Pax6+ neural crest progenitor phenotype to support quiescence and self-renewal but prevent corneal fate decision of LEPCs. This new paradigm helps explain how limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) develops in aniridia due to Pax6-haplotype deficiency and further explains why transplantation of HC-HA/PTX3-containing amniotic membrane prevents LSCD in acute chemical burns and Stevens Johnson syndrome, augments the success of autologous LEPCs transplantation in patients suffering from partial or total LSCD, and assists ex vivo expansion (engineering) of a graft containing LEPCs. We thus envisage that this new paradigm based on regenerative matrix HC-HA/PTX3 as a surrogate niche can set a new standard for regenerative medicine in and beyond ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scheffer C G Tseng
- Research & Development Department, TissueTech, Inc., Miami, FL, 33126, USA; Ocular Surface Center and Ocular Surface Research & Education Foundation, Miami, FL, 33126, USA.
| | - Szu-Yu Chen
- Research & Development Department, TissueTech, Inc., Miami, FL, 33126, USA
| | - Olivia G Mead
- Research & Development Department, TissueTech, Inc., Miami, FL, 33126, USA
| | - Sean Tighe
- Research & Development Department, TissueTech, Inc., Miami, FL, 33126, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
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40
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Ekpo P, Inthasin N, Matamnan S, Wongprompitak P, Wattanapanitch M, Boonwong C, Chirapapaisan C, Ngowyutagon P, Uiprasertkul M, Prabhasawat P, Tantibhedhyangkul W. Characterization of limbal explant sites: Optimization of stem cell outgrowth in in vitro culture. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233075. [PMID: 32407348 PMCID: PMC7224544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) and cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) are proven techniques for treating limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). However, the precise regions that are most suitable for preparing explants for transplantation have not been identified conclusively. Accordingly, this in vitro study aimed at determining ideal sites to be selected for tissue harvest for limbal stem cell culture and transplantation. We evaluated cell outgrowth potential and the expression of stem cell markers in cultures from 48 limbal explants from five cadaveric donors. The limbal explants were generated from the three specific sites: Lcor (located innermost and adjacent to the cornea), Lm (middle limbus), and Lconj (located outermost adjacent to the conjunctiva). We found that explants from the Lconj and Lm sites exhibited higher growth potential than those from the Lcor site. Transcript encoding the stem cell marker and p63 isoform, ΔNp63, was detected in cells from Lm and Lconj explants; expression levels were slightly, though significantly (p-value < 0.05), higher in Lm than in Lconj, although expression of ΔNp63α protein was similar in cells from all explants. Differential expression of ATP-Binding Cassette Subfamily G Member 2 (ABCG2) did not reach statistical significance. Immunohistochemistry by indirect immunofluorescence analysis of limbus tissue revealed that the basal layer in explant tissue from Lconj and Lm contained markedly more stem cells than found in Lcor explant tissue; these findings correlate with a higher capacity for growth. Collectively, our findings suggest that explants from the Lconj and Lm sites should be selected for limbal cell expansion for both CLET and SLET procedures. These new insights may guide surgeons toward specific limbal sites that are most suitable for stem cell culture and transplantation and may ultimately improve treatment outcomes in the patients with LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattama Ekpo
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail: (PE); (WT)
| | - Naharuthai Inthasin
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sutthicha Matamnan
- Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patimaporn Wongprompitak
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Methichit Wattanapanitch
- Research Department, Siriraj Center for Regenerative Medicine (SiCRM), Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chawikan Boonwong
- Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chareenun Chirapapaisan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panotsom Ngowyutagon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mongkol Uiprasertkul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pinnita Prabhasawat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wiwit Tantibhedhyangkul
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail: (PE); (WT)
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Jackson CJ, Myklebust Ernø IT, Ringstad H, Tønseth KA, Dartt DA, Utheim TP. Simple limbal epithelial transplantation: Current status and future perspectives. Stem Cells Transl Med 2019; 9:316-327. [PMID: 31802651 PMCID: PMC7031634 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to limbal stem cells as a result of injury or disease can lead to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). This disease is characterized by decreased vision that is often painful and may progress to blindness. Clinical features include inflammation, neovascularization, and persistent cornea epithelial defects. Successful strategies for treatment involve transplantation of grafts harvested from the limbus of the alternate healthy eye, called conjunctival‐limbal autograft (CLAU) and transplantation of limbal cell sheets cultured from limbal biopsies, termed cultured limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET). In 2012, Sangwan and colleagues presented simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET), a novel transplantation technique that combines the benefits of CLAU and CLET and avoids the challenges associated with both. In SLET a small biopsy from the limbus of the healthy eye is divided and distributed over human amniotic membrane, which is placed on the affected cornea. Outgrowth occurs from each small explant and a complete corneal epithelium is typically formed within 2 weeks. Advantages of SLET include reduced risk of iatrogenic LSCD occurring in the healthy cornea at harvest; direct transfer circumventing the need for cell culture; and the opportunity to perform biopsy harvest and transplantation in one operation. Success so far using SLET is comparable with CLAU and CLET. Of note, 336 of 404 (83%) operations using SLET resulted in restoration of the corneal epithelium, whereas visual acuity improved in 258 of the 373 (69%) reported cases. This review summarizes the results of 31 studies published on SLET since 2012. Progress, advantages, challenges, and suggestions for future studies are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine J Jackson
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Håkon Ringstad
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Kim A Tønseth
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Darlene A Dartt
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital, Arendal, Norway
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