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Becherucci V, Bacci GM, Marziali E, Sodi A, Bambi F, Caputo R. The New Era of Therapeutic Strategies for the Treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Narrative Review of Pathomolecular Mechanisms for the Development of Cell-Based Therapies. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2656. [PMID: 37893030 PMCID: PMC10604477 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102656] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa, defined more properly as cone-rod dystrophy, is a paradigm of inherited diffuse retinal dystrophies, one of the rare diseases with the highest prevalence in the worldwide population and one of the main causes of low vision in the pediatric and elderly age groups. Advancements in and the understanding of molecular biology and gene-editing technologies have raised interest in laying the foundation for new therapeutic strategies for rare diseases. As a consequence, new possibilities for clinicians and patients are arising due to the feasibility of treating such a devastating disorder, reducing its complications. The scope of this review focuses on the pathomolecular mechanisms underlying RP better to understand the prospects of its treatment using innovative approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Becherucci
- Cell Factory Meyer, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (V.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Giacomo Maria Bacci
- Pediatric Ophthalmology Unit, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Elisa Marziali
- Pediatric Ophthalmology Unit, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Andrea Sodi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Franco Bambi
- Cell Factory Meyer, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (V.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Roberto Caputo
- Pediatric Ophthalmology Unit, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.M.); (R.C.)
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2
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Shen Y, Sun J, Sun X. Intraocular nano-microscale drug delivery systems for glaucoma treatment: design strategies and recent progress. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:84. [PMID: 36899348 PMCID: PMC9999627 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01838-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible visual impairment and blindness, affecting over 76.0 million people worldwide in 2020, with a predicted increase to 111.8 million by 2040. Hypotensive eye drops remain the gold standard for glaucoma treatment, while inadequate patient adherence to medication regimens and poor bioavailability of drugs to target tissues are major obstacles to effective treatment outcomes. Nano/micro-pharmaceuticals, with diverse spectra and abilities, may represent a hope of removing these obstacles. This review describes a set of intraocular nano/micro drug delivery systems involved in glaucoma treatment. Particularly, it investigates the structures, properties, and preclinical evidence supporting the use of these systems in glaucoma, followed by discussing the route of administration, the design of systems, and factors affecting in vivo performance. Finally, it concludes by highlighting the emerging notion as an attractive approach to address the unmet needs for managing glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuening Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Jianguo Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200031, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200031, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration (Fudan University), Shanghai, 200031, China.
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3
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Das A, Imanishi Y. Drug Discovery Strategies for Inherited Retinal Degenerations. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:1338. [PMID: 36138817 PMCID: PMC9495580 DOI: 10.3390/biology11091338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal degeneration is a group of blinding disorders afflicting more than 1 in 4000 worldwide. These disorders frequently cause the death of photoreceptor cells or retinal ganglion cells. In a subset of these disorders, photoreceptor cell death is a secondary consequence of retinal pigment epithelial cell dysfunction or degeneration. This manuscript reviews current efforts in identifying targets and developing small molecule-based therapies for these devastating neuronal degenerations, for which no cures exist. Photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells are metabolically demanding owing to their unique structures and functional properties. Modulations of metabolic pathways, which are disrupted in most inherited retinal degenerations, serve as promising therapeutic strategies. In monogenic disorders, great insights were previously obtained regarding targets associated with the defective pathways, including phototransduction, visual cycle, and mitophagy. In addition to these target-based drug discoveries, we will discuss how phenotypic screening can be harnessed to discover beneficial molecules without prior knowledge of their mechanisms of action. Because of major anatomical and biological differences, it has frequently been challenging to model human inherited retinal degeneration conditions using small animals such as rodents. Recent advances in stem cell-based techniques are opening new avenues to obtain pure populations of human retinal ganglion cells and retinal organoids with photoreceptor cells. We will discuss concurrent ideas of utilizing stem-cell-based disease models for drug discovery and preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arupratan Das
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yoshikazu Imanishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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4
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Abd B, Abed T. Ocular disorders and stem cell therapy: A review. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF BABYLON 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/mjbl.mjbl_12_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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5
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Antioxidant-Loaded Mucoadhesive Nanoparticles for Eye Drug Delivery: A New Strategy to Reduce Oxidative Stress. Processes (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9020379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There are several approaches to treat ocular diseases, which can be invasive or non-invasive. Within the non-invasive, new pharmaceutical strategies based on nanotechnology and mucoadhesive polymers are emerging methodologies, which aim to reach an efficient treatment of eye diseases. The aim of this work was the development of novel chitosan/hyaluronic acid nanoparticle systems with mucoadhesive properties, intended to encapsulate antioxidant molecules (e.g., crocin) aiming to reduce eye oxidative stress and, consequently, ocular disease. An ultraviolet (UV) absorber molecule, actinoquinol, was also added to the nanoparticles, to further decrease oxidative stress. The developed nanoparticles were characterized and the results showed a mean particle size lower than 400 nm, polydispersity index of 0.220 ± 0.034, positive zeta potential, and high yield. The nanoparticles were also characterized in terms of pH, osmolality, and viscosity. Mucoadhesion studies involving the determination of zeta potential, viscosity, and tackiness, showed a strong interaction between the nanoparticles and mucin. In vitro release studies using synthetic membranes in Franz diffusion cells were conducted to unravel the drug release kinetic profile. Ex vitro studies using pig eye scleras in Franz diffusion cells were performed to evaluate the permeation of the nanoparticles. Furthermore, in vitro assays using the ARPE-19 (adult retinal pigment epithelium) cell line showed that the nanoparticles can efficiently decrease oxidative stress and showed low cytotoxicity. Thus, the developed chitosan/hyaluronic acid nanoparticles are a promising system for the delivery of antioxidants to the eye, by increasing their residence time and controlling their delivery.
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6
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Shen Y. Stem cell therapies for retinal diseases: from bench to bedside. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1347-1368. [PMID: 32794020 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01960-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
As the human retina has no regenerative ability, stem cell interventions represent potential therapies for various blinding retinal diseases. This type of therapy has been extensively studied in the human eyes through decades of preclinical studies. The safety profiles shown in clinical trials thus far have indicated that these strategies should be further explored. There are still challenges with regard to cell source, cell delivery, immuno-related adverse events and long-term maintenance of the therapeutic effects. Retinal stem cell therapy is likely to be most successful with a combination of multiple technologies, such as gene therapy. The purpose of this review is to present a synthetical and systematic coverage of stem cell therapies that target retinal diseases from bench to bedside, intending to appeal to both junior specialists and the broader community of clinical investigators alike. This review will only focus on therapies that have already been studied in clinical trials. This review summarizes key concepts, highlights the main studies in human patients and discusses the current challenges and potential methods to reduce safety concerns while enhancing the therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuening Shen
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London , 11-43 Bath St, London, EC1V 9EL, UK. .,Department of Medical Retina, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD, UK.
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7
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Hua ZQ, Liu H, Wang N, Jin ZB. Towards stem cell-based neuronal regeneration for glaucoma. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2020; 257:99-118. [PMID: 32988476 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease as a leading cause of global blindness. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) apoptosis and optic nerve damage are the main pathological changes. Patients have elevated intraocular pressure and progressive visual field loss. Unfortunately, current treatments for glaucoma merely stay at delaying the disease progression. As a promising treatment, stem cell-based neuronal regeneration therapy holds potential for glaucoma, thereby great efforts have been paid on it. RGC regeneration and transplantation are key approaches for the future treatment of glaucoma. A line of studies have shown that a variety of cells can be used to regenerate RGCs, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). In this review, we overview the current progress on the regeneration of pluripotent stem cell-derived RGCs and outlook the perspective and challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Qi Hua
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ningli Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
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Ma DJ, Lim MS, Park UC, Park JB, Ji SY, Yu HG. Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Labeling of Photoreceptor Precursors for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2019; 25:532-542. [PMID: 31418341 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2019.0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT This study describes the methods and results of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION) labeling and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tracking of human embryonic stem cell-derived photoreceptor precursors transplanted into the subretinal space of Royal College of Surgeons rats. SPION labeling and MRI tracking provide information about the biodistribution of transplanted photoreceptor precursors, which is necessary for improving the functional benefits of cell therapy for degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Joong Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Research Lab, Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Sun Lim
- R&D Center, Jeil Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Yongin-si, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Un Chul Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Research Lab, Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Bum Park
- Retinal Degeneration Research Lab, Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yeon Ji
- R&D Center, Jeil Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Yongin-si, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Gon Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Research Lab, Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Xiong Y, Ji H, You Z, Yao F, Zhou R, Song W, Xia X. Otx2 enhances transdifferentiation of Müller cells-derived retinal stem cells into photoreceptor-like cells. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 23:943-953. [PMID: 30451368 PMCID: PMC6349218 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal Müller glial cells have the potential of neurogenic retinal progenitor cells, and could reprogram into retinal-specific cell types such as photoreceptor cells. How to promote the differentiation of Müller cells into photoreceptor cells represents a promising therapy strategy for retinal degeneration diseases. This study aimed to enhance the transdifferentiation of rat Müller cells-derived retinal stem cells (MC-RSCs) into photoreceptor-like cells and explore the signalling mechanism. We dedifferentiated rat Müller cells into MC-RSCs which were infected with Otx2 overexpression lentivirus or control. The positive rate of photoreceptor-like cells among MC-RSCs treated with Otx2 overexpression lentivirus was significantly higher compared to control. Furthermore, pre-treatment with Crx siRNA, Nrl siRNA, or GSK-3 inhibitor SB-216763 reduced the positive rate of photoreceptor-like cells among MC-RSCs treated with Otx2 overexpression lentivirus. Finally, Otx2 induced photoreceptor precursor cells were injected into subretinal space of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea induced rat model of retinal degeneration and partially recovered retinal degeneration in the rats. In conclusion, Otx2 enhances transdifferentiation of MC-RSCs into photoreceptor-like cells and this is associated with the inhibition of Wnt signalling. Otx2 is a potential target for gene therapy of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hongpei Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhipeng You
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Fei Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rongrong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weitao Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Jin ZB, Gao ML, Deng WL, Wu KC, Sugita S, Mandai M, Takahashi M. Stemming retinal regeneration with pluripotent stem cells. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 69:38-56. [PMID: 30419340 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cell replacement therapy is a promising treatment for irreversible retinal cell death in diverse diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Stargardt's disease, retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and glaucoma. These diseases are all characterized by the degeneration of one or two retinal cell types that cannot regenerate spontaneously in humans. Aberrant retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells can be observed through optical coherence tomography (OCT) in AMD patients. In RP patients, the morphological and functional abnormalities of RPE and photoreceptor layers are caused by a genetic abnormality. Stargardt's disease or juvenile macular degeneration, which is characterized by the loss of the RPE and photoreceptors in the macular area, causes central vision loss at an early age. Loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) can be observed in patients with glaucoma. Once the retinal cell degeneration is triggered, no treatments can reverse it. Transplantation-based approaches have been proposed as a universal therapy to target patients with various concomitant diseases. Both the replacement of dead cells and neuroprotection are strategies used to rescue visual function in animal models of retinal degeneration. Diverse retinal cell types derived from pluripotent stem cells, including RPE cells, photoreceptors, RGCs and even retinal organoids with a layered structure, provide unlimited cell sources for transplantation. In addition, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multifunctional and protect degenerating retinal cells. The aim of this review is to summarize current findings from preclinical and clinical studies. We begin with a brief introduction to retinal degenerative diseases and cell death in diverse diseases, followed by methods for retinal cell generation. Preclinical and clinical studies are discussed, and future concerns about efficacy, safety and immunorejection are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Bing Jin
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology, Optometry & Visual Science, National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
| | - Mei-Ling Gao
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology, Optometry & Visual Science, National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wen-Li Deng
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology, Optometry & Visual Science, National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Kun-Chao Wu
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology, Optometry & Visual Science, National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Sunao Sugita
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
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11
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Lee S, Moon S, Oh JY, Seo EH, Kim YH, Jun E, Shim IK, Kim SC. Enhanced insulin production and reprogramming efficiency of mesenchymal stem cells derived from porcine pancreas using suitable induction medium. Xenotransplantation 2018; 26:e12451. [PMID: 30252163 DOI: 10.1111/xen.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic reprogramming is a powerful method for altering cell properties and inducing differentiation. However, even if the same gene is reprogrammed, the results vary among cells. Therefore, a better possible strategy involves treating cells with factors that further stimulate differentiation while using stem cells with the same tissue origin. This study aimed to increase induction efficiency and insulin production in reprogrammed cells using a combination of factors that promote cell differentiation. METHODS Porcine pancreatic cells were cultured to obtain mesenchymal stem cells expressing pancreatic cell-specific markers through sequential passages. The characteristics of these cells were identified, and the M3 gene (Pdx1, Ngn3, MafA) was reprogrammed to induce differentiation into insulin-producing cells. Additionally, the differentiation efficiency of insulin-producing cells was compared by treating reprogrammed cells with a differentiation-promoting factor. RESULTS Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from porcine pancreatic tissues expressed exocrine cell markers, including amylase and cytokeratin 18, and most cells continuously expressed the beta cell transcription factors Ngn3 and NeuroD. Reprogramming of the M3 gene resulted in differentiation into insulin-producing cells. Moreover, significantly increased insulin and glucagon expressions were observed in the suitable induction medium, and the characteristic beta cell transcription factors Pdx1, Ngn3, and MafA were expressed at levels as high as those in pancreatic islet cells. CONCLUSIONS Differentiation into insulin-producing cells represents an alternative therapy for insufficient pancreatic islet cells when treating diabetes. Therefore, cells with the characteristics of the target cell should be used to improve differentiation efficiency by creating an environment that promotes reprogramming and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Lee
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soobin Moon
- Department of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju Yun Oh
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Ha Seo
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yang Hee Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eunsung Jun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - In Kyoung Shim
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Song Cheol Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Division of Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Bobba S, Di Girolamo N, Munsie M, Chen F, Pébay A, Harkin D, Hewitt AW, O'Connor M, McLenachan S, Shadforth AMA, Watson SL. The current state of stem cell therapy for ocular disease. Exp Eye Res 2018; 177:65-75. [PMID: 30029023 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we review the safety, efficacy, regulatory standards and ethical implications of the use of stem cells in ocular disease. A literature review was conducted, registered clinical trials reviewed, and expert opinions sought. Guidelines and codes of conduct from international societies and professional bodies were also reviewed. Collated data is presented on current progress in the field of ocular regenerative medicine, future challenges, the clinical trial process and ethical considerations in stem cell therapy. A greater understanding of the function and location of ocular stem cells has led to rapid advances in possible therapeutic applications. However, in the context of significant technical challenges and potential long-term complications, it is imperative that stem cell practices operate within formal clinical trial frameworks. While there remains broad scope for innovation, ongoing evidence-based review of potential interventions and the development of standardized protocols are necessary to ensure patient safety and best practice in ophthalmic care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Bobba
- Prince of Wales Hospital Clinical School, High Street, Randwick, Sydney, New South Wales, 2031, Australia.
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Megan Munsie
- Centre for Stem Cell Systems, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Fred Chen
- Lions Eye Institute, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Alice Pébay
- Centre for Stem Cell Systems, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia; Centre for Eye Research Australia, Level 7/32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
| | - Damien Harkin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Level 7/32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Churchill Avenue, Hobart, Tasmania, 7005, Australia
| | - Michael O'Connor
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Victoria Road Parramatta, New South Wales, Parramatta, 2150, Australia
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Audra M A Shadforth
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, 2 George Street, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Watson
- Prince of Wales Hospital Clinical School, High Street, Randwick, Sydney, New South Wales, 2031, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia; Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.
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13
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Huang L, Chen M, Zhang W, Sun X, Liu B, Ge J. Retinoid acid and taurine promote NeuroD1-induced differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal ganglion cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 438:67-76. [PMID: 28766169 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) possess the capacity to differentiate into multiple cell types including retinal neurons. Despite substantial progress in the transcriptional regulation of iPSC differentiation process, the efficiency of generation of retinal neurons from iPSCs is still low. In this study, we investigated the role of transcription factor NeuroD1 in the differentiation of iPSCs into retinal neurons. We observed that retrovirus-mediated NeuroD1 overexpression in iPSCs increased the efficiency of neuronal differentiation. Immunostaining analysis showed that NeuroD1 overexpression increased the expression of retina ganglion cell markers including Islet-1, Math5, Brn3b, and Thy1.2. Retinoid acid (RA) and taurine further improved the differentiation efficiency of iPSCs overexpressing NeuroD1. However, RA and taurine did not promote differentiation in the absence of NeuroD1 overexpression. Together, our study provides new evidence in transcription factor-regulated stem cell differentiation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Mengfei Chen
- Head&Neck Surgery Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Weizhong Zhang
- Ophthalmology Department, Sir Runrun Hospital Affiliated With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 325200, China
| | - Xuerong Sun
- Institute of Aging Research, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Bingqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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14
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Soleimannejad M, Ebrahimi-Barough S, Soleimani M, Nadri S, Tavangar SM, Roohipoor R, Yazdankhah M, Bayat N, Riazi-Esfahani M, Ai J. Fibrin gel as a scaffold for photoreceptor cells differentiation from conjunctiva mesenchymal stem cells in retina tissue engineering. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 46:805-814. [DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1345922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Soleimannejad
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samad Nadri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Science, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Tavangar
- Department of Pathology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramak Roohipoor
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Yazdankhah
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Neda Bayat
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Riazi-Esfahani
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jafar Ai
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Teymouri S, Calejo MT, Hiltunen M, Sorkio A, Juuti-Uusitalo K, Skottman H, Kellomäki M. Collagen-immobilized polyimide membranes for retinal pigment epithelial cell adherence and proliferation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/23312009.2017.1292593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shokoufeh Teymouri
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, BioMediTech Institute, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
| | - Maria Teresa Calejo
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, BioMediTech Institute, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
| | - Maiju Hiltunen
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, BioMediTech Institute, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anni Sorkio
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, BioMediTech Institute, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Kati Juuti-Uusitalo
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, BioMediTech Institute, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, BioMediTech Institute, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Minna Kellomäki
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, BioMediTech Institute, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
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16
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Yun C, Oh J, Lee B, Lee JM, Ariunaa T, Huh K. Generation of Retinal Progenitor Cells from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Spherical Neural Mass. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 14:39-47. [PMID: 30603460 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-016-0021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spherical neural mass (SNM) is a mass of neural precursors that have been used to generate neuronal cells with advantages of long-term passaging capability with high yield, easy storage, and thawing. In this study, we differentiated neural retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)-derived SNMs. RPCs were differentiated from SNMs with a noggin/fibroblast growth factor-basic/Dickkopf-1/Insulin-like growth factor-1/fibroblast growth factor-9 protocol for three weeks. Human RPCs expressed eye field markers (Paired box 6) and early neural retinal markers (Ceh-10 homeodomain containing homolog), but did not photoreceptor marker (Opsin 1 short-wave-sensitive). Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed that early neural retinal markers (Mammalian achaete-scute complex homolog 1, mouse atonal homolog 5, neurogenic differentiation 1) and retinal fate markers (brain-specific homeobox/POU domain transcription factor 3B and recoverin) were upregulated, while the marker of retinal pigment epithelium (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor) only showed slight upregulation. Human RPCs were transplanted into mouse (adult 8 weeks old C57BL/6) retina. Cells transplanted into the mouse retina matured and expressed markers of mature retinal cells (Opsin 1 short-wave-sensitive) and human nuclei on immunohistochemistry three months after transplantation. Development of RPCs using SNMs may offer a fast and useful method for neural retinal cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheolmin Yun
- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-705 Korea
| | - Jaeryung Oh
- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-705 Korea
| | - Boram Lee
- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-705 Korea
| | - Ja-Myong Lee
- 2Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Togloom Ariunaa
- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-705 Korea
| | - Kuhl Huh
- 1Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, 126-1 Anam-dong 5-ga, Sungbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-705 Korea
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17
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Wu N, Wang Y, Yang L, Cho KS. Signaling Networks of Retinal Ganglion Cell Formation and the Potential Application of Stem Cell–Based Therapy in Retinal Degenerative Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:609-20. [PMID: 27466076 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2016.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wu
- 1 Department of Ophthalmology, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University , Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Wang
- 1 Department of Ophthalmology, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University , Chongqing, China
| | - Lanbo Yang
- 2 Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- 2 Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
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18
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Stem Cell Therapy for Treatment of Ocular Disorders. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:8304879. [PMID: 27293447 PMCID: PMC4884591 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8304879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustenance of visual function is the ultimate focus of ophthalmologists. Failure of complete recovery of visual function and complications that follow conventional treatments have shifted search to a new form of therapy using stem cells. Stem cell progenitors play a major role in replenishing degenerated cells despite being present in low quantity and quiescence in our body. Unlike other tissues and cells, regeneration of new optic cells responsible for visual function is rarely observed. Understanding the transcription factors and genes responsible for optic cells development will assist scientists in formulating a strategy to activate and direct stem cells renewal and differentiation. We review the processes of human eye development and address the strategies that have been exploited in an effort to regain visual function in the preclinical and clinical state. The update of clinical findings of patients receiving stem cell treatment is also presented.
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19
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Di Foggia V, Makwana P, Ali RR, Sowden JC. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Therapies for Degenerative Disease of the Outer Retina: Disease Modeling and Cell Replacement. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2016; 32:240-52. [PMID: 27027805 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2015.0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies are being explored as potential treatments for retinal disease. How to replace neurons in a degenerated retina presents a continued challenge for the regenerative medicine field that, if achieved, could restore sight. The major issues are: (i) the source and availability of donor cells for transplantation; (ii) the differentiation of stem cells into the required retinal cells; and (iii) the delivery, integration, functionality, and survival of new cells in the host neural network. This review considers the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), currently under intense investigation, as a platform for cell transplantation therapy. Moreover, patient-specific iPSC are being developed for autologous cell transplantation and as a tool for modeling specific retinal diseases, testing gene therapies, and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Foggia
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
| | - Priyanka Makwana
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- 2 UCL Institute of Ophthalmology , London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane C Sowden
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
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20
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Unachukwu UJ, Warren A, Li Z, Mishra S, Zhou J, Sauane M, Lim H, Vazquez M, Redenti S. Predicted molecular signaling guiding photoreceptor cell migration following transplantation into damaged retina. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22392. [PMID: 26935401 PMCID: PMC4776098 DOI: 10.1038/srep22392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To replace photoreceptors lost to disease or trauma and restore vision, laboratories around the world are investigating photoreceptor replacement strategies using subretinal transplantation of photoreceptor precursor cells (PPCs) and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). Significant obstacles to advancement of photoreceptor cell-replacement include low migration rates of transplanted cells into host retina and an absence of data describing chemotactic signaling guiding migration of transplanted cells in the damaged retinal microenvironment. To elucidate chemotactic signaling guiding transplanted cell migration, bioinformatics modeling of PPC transplantation into light-damaged retina was performed. The bioinformatics modeling analyzed whole-genome expression data and matched PPC chemotactic cell-surface receptors to cognate ligands expressed in the light-damaged retinal microenvironment. A library of significantly predicted chemotactic ligand-receptor pairs, as well as downstream signaling networks was generated. PPC and RPC migration in microfluidic ligand gradients were analyzed using a highly predicted ligand-receptor pair, SDF-1α – CXCR4, and both PPCs and RPCs exhibited significant chemotaxis. This work present a systems level model and begins to elucidate molecular mechanisms involved in PPC and RPC migration within the damaged retinal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uchenna John Unachukwu
- Biochemistry Doctoral Program, The Graduate School, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Alice Warren
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Ze Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Shawn Mishra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, City University of New York, NY, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA.,Neuroscience Doctoral Program, The Graduate School, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Moira Sauane
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Hyungsik Lim
- Departments of Physics and Biology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY USA
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City College of New York, City University of New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen Redenti
- Biochemistry Doctoral Program, The Graduate School, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, Bronx, NY, USA
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21
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Dalkara D, Goureau O, Marazova K, Sahel JA. Let There Be Light: Gene and Cell Therapy for Blindness. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:134-47. [PMID: 26751519 PMCID: PMC4779297 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Retinal cell death is the main cause of vision loss in genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis, as well as in complex age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. For these blinding conditions, gene and cell therapy approaches offer therapeutic intervention at various disease stages. The present review outlines advances in therapies for retinal degenerative disease, focusing on the progress and challenges in the development and clinical translation of gene and cell therapies. A significant body of preclinical evidence and initial clinical results pave the way for further development of these cutting edge treatments for patients with retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Katia Marazova
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
- Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DHOS CIC 1423, France
- Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
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22
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Pearson C, Martin K. Stem cell approaches to glaucoma: from aqueous outflow modulation to retinal neuroprotection. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 220:241-56. [PMID: 26497794 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Long-term pharmacological management of glaucoma currently relies on self-administered drugs to regulate intraocular pressure (IOP). A number of approaches using stem cells have recently shown promise as potential future treatment strategies complementary to IOP lowering. Several sources of endogenous stem cells have been identified in the eye, some of which may be able to repair the damaged trabecular meshwork and restore functional regulation of aqueous outflow. Neural and mesenchymal stem cells secrete growth factors which provide neuroprotective effects, reducing loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in animal models. In the future, stem cells may even replace RGCs to reform functional connections between the eye and the brain, although the complexity of such a repair task is formidable. With advances in biomaterial cell scaffolds and concurrent efforts in other neural systems, stem cell therapies are becoming a realistic option for treating multiple eye diseases, and despite ongoing challenges, there are reasons for optimism that stem cells may play a role in the treatment of human glaucoma in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Pearson
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK; National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Keith Martin
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
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23
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Tassoni A, Gutteridge A, Barber AC, Osborne A, Martin KR. Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Retinal Reactive Gliosis Following Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation. Stem Cells 2015; 33:3006-16. [PMID: 26175331 PMCID: PMC4832383 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A variety of diseases lead to degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons within the optic nerve resulting in loss of visual function. Although current therapies may delay RGC loss, they do not restore visual function or completely halt disease progression. Regenerative medicine has recently focused on stem cell therapy for both neuroprotective and regenerative purposes. However, significant problems remain to be addressed, such as the long-term impact of reactive gliosis occurring in the host retina in response to transplanted stem cells. The aim of this work was to investigate retinal glial responses to intravitreally transplanted bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) to help identify factors able to modulate graft-induced reactive gliosis. We found in vivo that intravitreal BM-MSC transplantation is associated with gliosis-mediated retinal folding, upregulation of intermediate filaments, and recruitment of macrophages. These responses were accompanied by significant JAK/STAT3 and MAPK (ERK1/2 and JNK) cascade activation in retinal Muller glia. Lipocalin-2 (Lcn-2) was identified as a potential new indicator of graft-induced reactive gliosis. Pharmacological inhibition of STAT3 in BM-MSC cocultured retinal explants successfully reduced glial fibrillary acidic protein expression in retinal Muller glia and increased BM-MSC retinal engraftment. Inhibition of stem cell-induced reactive gliosis is critical for successful transplantation-based strategies for neuroprotection, replacement, and regeneration of the optic nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Tassoni
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Amanda C Barber
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Osborne
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Keith R Martin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Eye Department, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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24
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Yang HJ, Ratnapriya R, Cogliati T, Kim JW, Swaroop A. Vision from next generation sequencing: multi-dimensional genome-wide analysis for producing gene regulatory networks underlying retinal development, aging and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 46:1-30. [PMID: 25668385 PMCID: PMC4402139 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Genomics and genetics have invaded all aspects of biology and medicine, opening uncharted territory for scientific exploration. The definition of "gene" itself has become ambiguous, and the central dogma is continuously being revised and expanded. Computational biology and computational medicine are no longer intellectual domains of the chosen few. Next generation sequencing (NGS) technology, together with novel methods of pattern recognition and network analyses, has revolutionized the way we think about fundamental biological mechanisms and cellular pathways. In this review, we discuss NGS-based genome-wide approaches that can provide deeper insights into retinal development, aging and disease pathogenesis. We first focus on gene regulatory networks (GRNs) that govern the differentiation of retinal photoreceptors and modulate adaptive response during aging. Then, we discuss NGS technology in the context of retinal disease and develop a vision for therapies based on network biology. We should emphasize that basic strategies for network construction and analyses can be transported to any tissue or cell type. We believe that specific and uniform guidelines are required for generation of genome, transcriptome and epigenome data to facilitate comparative analysis and integration of multi-dimensional data sets, and for constructing networks underlying complex biological processes. As cellular homeostasis and organismal survival are dependent on gene-gene and gene-environment interactions, we believe that network-based biology will provide the foundation for deciphering disease mechanisms and discovering novel drug targets for retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jin Yang
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, 6 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0610, USA
| | - Rinki Ratnapriya
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, 6 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0610, USA
| | - Tiziana Cogliati
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, 6 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0610, USA
| | - Jung-Woong Kim
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, 6 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0610, USA
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, 6 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-0610, USA.
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25
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Schwartz SD, Regillo CD, Lam BL, Eliott D, Rosenfeld PJ, Gregori NZ, Hubschman JP, Davis JL, Heilwell G, Spirn M, Maguire J, Gay R, Bateman J, Ostrick RM, Morris D, Vincent M, Anglade E, Del Priore LV, Lanza R. Human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium in patients with age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt's macular dystrophy: follow-up of two open-label phase 1/2 studies. Lancet 2015; 385:509-16. [PMID: 25458728 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(14)61376-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 830] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since they were first derived more than three decades ago, embryonic stem cells have been proposed as a source of replacement cells in regenerative medicine, but their plasticity and unlimited capacity for self-renewal raises concerns about their safety, including tumour formation ability, potential immune rejection, and the risk of differentiating into unwanted cell types. We report the medium-term to long-term safety of cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) transplanted into patients. METHODS In the USA, two prospective phase 1/2 studies were done to assess the primary endpoints safety and tolerability of subretinal transplantation of hESC-derived retinal pigment epithelium in nine patients with Stargardt's macular dystrophy (age >18 years) and nine with atrophic age-related macular degeneration (age >55 years). Three dose cohorts (50,000, 100,000, and 150,000 cells) were treated for each eye disorder. Transplanted patients were followed up for a median of 22 months by use of serial systemic, ophthalmic, and imaging examinations. The studies are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT01345006 (Stargardt's macular dystrophy) and NCT01344993 (age-related macular degeneration). FINDINGS There was no evidence of adverse proliferation, rejection, or serious ocular or systemic safety issues related to the transplanted tissue. Adverse events were associated with vitreoretinal surgery and immunosuppression. 13 (72%) of 18 patients had patches of increasing subretinal pigmentation consistent with transplanted retinal pigment epithelium. Best-corrected visual acuity, monitored as part of the safety protocol, improved in ten eyes, improved or remained the same in seven eyes, and decreased by more than ten letters in one eye, whereas the untreated fellow eyes did not show similar improvements in visual acuity. Vision-related quality-of-life measures increased for general and peripheral vision, and near and distance activities, improving by 16-25 points 3-12 months after transplantation in patients with atrophic age-related macular degeneration and 8-20 points in patients with Stargardt's macular dystrophy. INTERPRETATION The results of this study provide the first evidence of the medium-term to long-term safety, graft survival, and possible biological activity of pluripotent stem cell progeny in individuals with any disease. Our results suggest that hESC-derived cells could provide a potentially safe new source of cells for the treatment of various unmet medical disorders requiring tissue repair or replacement. FUNDING Advanced Cell Technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Schwartz
- Jules Stein Eye Institute Retina Division, and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Carl D Regillo
- Wills Eye Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Byron L Lam
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Dean Eliott
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ninel Z Gregori
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jean-Pierre Hubschman
- Jules Stein Eye Institute Retina Division, and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janet L Davis
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Gad Heilwell
- Jules Stein Eye Institute Retina Division, and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marc Spirn
- Wills Eye Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Maguire
- Wills Eye Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Roger Gay
- Advanced Cell Technology, Marlborough, MA, USA
| | | | - Rosaleen M Ostrick
- Jules Stein Eye Institute Retina Division, and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Storm Eye Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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26
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Amer MH, White LJ, Shakesheff KM. The effect of injection using narrow-bore needles on mammalian cells: administration and formulation considerations for cell therapies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 67:640-50. [PMID: 25623928 PMCID: PMC4964945 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study focuses on the effect of the injection administration process on a range of cell characteristics. Methods Effects of different ejection rates, needle sizes and cell suspension densities were assessed in terms of viability, membrane integrity, apoptosis and senescence of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. For ratiometric measurements, a multiplex assay was used to verify cell viability, cytotoxicity and apoptosis independent of cell number. Co‐delivery with alginate hydrogels and viscosity‐modifying excipients was also assessed. Key findings Ejections at 150 μl/min resulted in the highest percentage of dose being delivered as viable cells among ejection rates tested. The difference in proportions of apoptotic cells became apparent 48 h after ejection, with proportions being higher in samples ejected at slower rates. Co‐delivery with alginate hydrogels demonstrated a protective action on the cell payload. Conclusions This study demonstrates the importance of careful consideration of administration protocols required for successful delivery of cell suspensions, according to their nature and cellular responses post‐ejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahetab H Amer
- Wolfson Centre for Stem Cells, Tissue Engineering and Modelling (STEM), School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Vertès AA. Deciphering the therapeutic stem cell strategies of large and midsize pharmaceutical firms. Regen Med 2014; 9:479-95. [DOI: 10.2217/rme.14.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The slow adoption of cytotherapeutics remains a vexing hurdle given clinical progress achieved to date with a variety of stem cell lineages. Big and midsize pharmaceutical companies as an asset class still delay large-scale investments in this arena until technological and market risks will have been further reduced. Nonetheless, a handful of stem cell strategic alliance and licensing transactions have already been implemented, indicating that progress is actively monitored, although most of these involve midsize firms. The greatest difficulty is, perhaps, that the regenerative medicine industry is currently only approaching the point of inflexion of the technology development S-curve, as many more clinical trials read out. A path to accelerating technology adoption is to focus on innovation outliers among healthcare actors. These can be identified by analyzing systemic factors (e.g., national science policies and industry fragmentation) and intrinsic factors (corporate culture, e.g., nimble decision-making structures; corporate finance, e.g., opportunity costs and ownership structure; and operations, e.g., portfolio management strategies, threats on existing businesses and patent expirations). Another path is to accelerate the full clinical translation and commercialization of an allogeneic cytotherapeutic product in any indication to demonstrate the disease-modifying potential of the new products for treatment and prophylaxis, ideally for a large unmet medical need such as dry age-related macular degeneration, or for an orphan disease such as biologics-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease. In times of decreased industry average research productivities, regenerative medicine products provide important prospects for creating new franchises with a market potential that could very well mirror that achieved with the technology of monoclonal antibodies.
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Pearson RA. Advances in repairing the degenerate retina by rod photoreceptor transplantation. Biotechnol Adv 2014; 32:485-91. [PMID: 24412415 PMCID: PMC4070022 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite very different aetiologies, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and most inherited retinal disorders culminate in the same final common pathway, loss of the light-sensitive photoreceptors. There are few clinical treatments and none can reverse the loss of vision. Photoreceptor replacement by transplantation is proposed as a broad treatment strategy applicable to all degenerations. The past decade has seen a number of landmark achievements in this field, which together provide strong justification for continuing investigation into photoreceptor replacement strategies. These include proof of principle for restoring vision by rod-photoreceptor transplantation in mice with congenital stationary night blindness and advances in stem cell biology, which have led to the generation of complete optic structures in vitro from embryonic stem cells. The latter represents enormous potential for generating suitable and renewable donor cells with which to achieve the former. However, there are still challenges presented by the degenerating recipient retinal environment that must be addressed as we move to translating these technologies towards clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael A Pearson
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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2,4-dinitrophenol induces neural differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells. Stem Cell Res 2013; 11:1407-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2013.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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You Y, Gupta VK, Li JC, Klistorner A, Graham SL. Optic neuropathies: characteristic features and mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell loss. Rev Neurosci 2013; 24:301-21. [PMID: 23612594 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2013-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Optic neuropathy refers to dysfunction and/or degeneration of axons of the optic nerve with subsequent optic nerve atrophy. A common feature of different optic neuropathies is retinal ganglion cell (RGC) apoptosis and axonal damage. Glaucoma and optic neuritis are the two major degenerative causes of optic nerve damage. Here, we review the anatomy and pathology of the optic nerve, and etiological categories of optic neuropathies, and discuss rodent models that can mimic these conditions. Electrophysiology can reveal signature features of RGC damage using the pattern electroretinogram (PERG), scotopic threshold response (STR) and photopic negative response (PhNR). The amplitude of the visual evoked potential (VEP) also reflects RGC axonal damage. The neurotrophin-mediated survival pathways, as well as the extrinsic and intrinsic cell apoptotic pathways, play a critical role in the pathogenesis of RGC loss. Finally, promising neuroprotective approaches based on the molecular signaling are analyzed for the treatment of optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyi You
- Department of Ophthalmology, Australian School of Advanced Medicine, Macquarie University, New South wales, Australia.
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English D, Sharma NK, Sharma K, Anand A. Neural stem cells-trends and advances. J Cell Biochem 2013; 114:764-72. [PMID: 23225161 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
For many years, accepted dogma held that brain is a static organ with no possibility of regeneration of cells in injured or diseased human brain. However, recent preclinical reports have shown regenerative potential of neural stem cells using various injury models. This has resulted in renewed hope for those suffering from spinal cord injury and neural damage. As the potential of stem cell therapy gained impact, these claims, in particular, led to widespread enthusiasm that acute and chronic injury of the nervous system would soon be a problem of the past. The devastation caused by injury or diseases of the brain and spinal cord led to wide premature acceptance that "neural stem cells (NSCs)" derived from embryonic, fetal or adult sources would soon be effective in reversing neural and spinal trauma. However, neural therapy with stem cells has not been realized to its fullest extent. Although, discrete population of regenerative stem cells seems to be present in specific areas of human brain, the function of these cells is unclear. However, similar cells in animals seem to play important role in postnatal growth as well as recovery of neural tissue from injury, anoxia, or disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis English
- Foundation for Florida Development and Research, Palmetto, Florida
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Forrester JV, Steptoe RJ, Klaska IP, Martin-Granados C, Dua HS, Degli-Esposti MA, Wikstrom ME. Cell-based therapies for ocular inflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2013; 35:82-101. [PMID: 23542232 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the plasticity and the potential for re-programming cells has become widely accepted, there has been great interest in cell-based therapies. These are being applied to a range of diseases, not least ocular diseases, where it is assumed that there is a reduced risk of immune rejection although this may be more perceived than real. There are two broad classes of cell-based therapies: those aimed at restoring structure and function of specific tissues and cells; and those directed towards restoring immunological homeostasis by controlling the damaging effects of inflammatory disease. Stem cells of all types represent the first group and prototypically have been used with the aim of regenerating failing cells. In contrast, immune cells have been suggested as potential modulators of inflammation. However, there is functional overlap in these two applications, with some types of stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells, demonstrating a potent immunomodulatory effect. This review summarises recent information on cell based therapies for ocular disease, with special emphasis on ocular inflammatory disease, and explores current uses, potential and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John V Forrester
- Immunology Program, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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Abstract
The field of regenerative medicine is approaching translation to clinical practice, and significant safety concerns and knowledge gaps have become clear as clinical practitioners are considering the potential risks and benefits of cell-based therapy. It is necessary to understand the full spectrum of stem cell actions and preclinical evidence for safety and therapeutic efficacy. The role of animal models for gaining this information has increased substantially. There is an urgent need for novel animal models to expand the range of current studies, most of which have been conducted in rodents. Extant models are providing important information but have limitations for a variety of disease categories and can have different size and physiology relative to humans. These differences can preclude the ability to reproduce the results of animal-based preclinical studies in human trials. Larger animal species, such as rabbits, dogs, pigs, sheep, goats, and non-human primates, are better predictors of responses in humans than are rodents, but in each case it will be necessary to choose the best model for a specific application. There is a wide spectrum of potential stem cell-based products that can be used for regenerative medicine, including embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, somatic stem cells, and differentiated cellular progeny. The state of knowledge and availability of these cells from large animals vary among species. In most cases, significant effort is required for establishing and characterizing cell lines, comparing behavior to human analogs, and testing potential applications. Stem cell-based therapies present significant safety challenges, which cannot be addressed by traditional procedures and require the development of new protocols and test systems, for which the rigorous use of larger animal species more closely resembling human behavior will be required. In this article, we discuss the current status and challenges of and several major directions for the future development of large animal models to facilitate advances in stem cell-based regenerative medicine.
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Melville H, Carpiniello M, Hollis K, Staffaroni A, Golestaneh N. Stem cells: a new paradigm for disease modeling and developing therapies for age-related macular degeneration. J Transl Med 2013; 11:53. [PMID: 23452406 PMCID: PMC3599723 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-11-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 55 in the U.S. and the developed world. This condition leads to the progressive impairment of central visual acuity. There are significant limitations in the understanding of disease progression in AMD as well as a lack of effective methods of treatment. Lately, there has been considerable enthusiasm for application of stem cell biology for both disease modeling and therapeutic application. Human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been used in cell culture assays and in vivo animal models. Recently a clinical trial was approved by FDA to investigate the safety and efficacy of the human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation in sub-retinal space of patients with dry AMD These studies suggest that stem cell research may provide both insight regarding disease development and progression, as well as direction for therapeutic innovation for the millions of patients afflicted with AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Melville
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Matthew Carpiniello
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Kia Hollis
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Andrew Staffaroni
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Nady Golestaneh
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Georgetown University, School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University, School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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Agudo-Barriuso M, Villegas-Pérez MP, de Imperial JM, Vidal-Sanz M. Anatomical and functional damage in experimental glaucoma. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2013; 13:5-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2012.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Abstract
Almost 300 million people are visually impaired worldwide due to various eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and corneal diseases. Notably, ten million people are blind because of severe ocular surface diseases and the majority of cases occur in developing countries. Blinding ocular surface diseases have, however, become treatable by grafting of surface layers, or by full-thickness transplantation of the cornea. As the demand for human corneal tissue for surface reconstruction and transplantation far exceeds the supply, methods are being developed to supplement tissue donation. Xenotransplantation of the cornea or cells from genetically modified pigs may become one of the solutions. Transplantation of limbal stem cells within tissue biopsies, to restore the transparency of the cornea is another remarkable method, which has shown its potential in several clinical studies. The combination of stem cell technology and engineering of biocompatible tissue equivalent, still at preclinical stage, has shown us how synthetic corneal tissue is able to guide cultured corneal stromal stem cells of human origin, to become native-like stroma, the most important layer of the cornea. These findings give hope for a large-quantity production of biomaterial for corneal reconstruction. As such, clinical ophthalmologists should become more familiar with the methods of laboratory science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olli Arjamaa
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Lecca D, Ceruti S, Fumagalli M, Abbracchio MP. Purinergic trophic signalling in glial cells: functional effects and modulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and death. Purinergic Signal 2012; 8:539-57. [PMID: 22528683 PMCID: PMC3360088 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-012-9310-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, the discovery that glial cells do not only fill in the empty space among neurons or furnish them with trophic support but are rather essential participants to the various activities of the central and peripheral nervous system has fostered the search for the signalling pathways controlling their functions. Since the early 1990s, purines were foreseen as some of the most promising candidate molecules. Originally just a hypothesis, this has become a certainty as experimental evidence accumulated over years, as demonstrated by the exponentially growing number of articles related to the role of extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides in controlling glial cell functions. Indeed, as new functions for already known glial cells (for example, the ability of parenchymal astrocytes to behave as stem cells) or new subtypes of glial cells (for example, NG2(+) cells, also called polydendrocytes) are discovered also, new actions and new targets for the purinergic system are identified. Thus, glial purinergic receptors have emerged as new possible pharmacological targets for various acute and chronic pathologies, such as stroke, traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, demyelinating diseases, trigeminal pain and migraine, and retinopathies. In this article, we will summarize the most important and promising actions mediated by extracellular purines and pyrimidines in controlling the functions, survival, and differentiation of the various "classical" types of glial cells (i.e., astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglial cells, Müller cells, satellite glial cells, and enteric glial cells) but also of some rather new members of the family (e.g., polydendrocytes) and of other cells somehow related to glial cells (e.g., pericytes and spinal cord ependymal cells).
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Lecca
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9-Milan, 20133 Italy
| | - Stefania Ceruti
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9-Milan, 20133 Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9-Milan, 20133 Italy
| | - Maria P. Abbracchio
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Balzaretti, 9-Milan, 20133 Italy
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Sirakov M, Skah S, Nadjar J, Plateroti M. Thyroid hormone's action on progenitor/stem cell biology: new challenge for a classic hormone? Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2012; 1830:3917-27. [PMID: 22890105 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2012.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2012] [Revised: 07/01/2012] [Accepted: 07/29/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid hormones are involved in developmental and homeostatic processes in several tissues. Their action results in different outcomes depending on the developmental stage, tissue and/or cellular context. Interestingly, their pleiotropic roles are conserved across vertebrates. It is largely documented that thyroid hormones act via nuclear receptors, the TRs, which are transcription factors and whose activity can be modulated by the local availability of the hormone T3. In the "classical view", the T3-induced physiological response depends on the expression of specific TR isoforms and the iodothyronine deiodinase selenoenzymes that control the local level of T3, thus TR activity. SCOPE OF THE REVIEW Recent data have clearly established that the functionality of TRs is coordinated and integrated with other signaling pathways, specifically at the level of stem/progenitor cell populations. Here, we summarize these data and propose a new and intriguing role for thyroid hormones in two selected examples. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS In the intestinal epithelium and the retina, TRα1 and TRβ2 are expressed at the level of the precursors where they induce cell proliferation and differentiation, respectively. Moreover, these different functions result from the integration of the hormone signal with other intrinsic pathways, which play a fundamental role in progenitor/stem cell physiology. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Taken together, the interaction of TRs with other signaling pathways, specifically in stem/progenitor cells, is a new concept that may have biological relevance in therapeutic approaches aimed to target stem cells such as tissue engineering and cancer. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Thyroid hormone signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sirakov
- Institut de Biologie et de Médecine Moléculaires, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
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40
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Schwartz SD, Hubschman JP, Heilwell G, Franco-Cardenas V, Pan CK, Ostrick RM, Mickunas E, Gay R, Klimanskaya I, Lanza R. Embryonic stem cell trials for macular degeneration: a preliminary report. Lancet 2012; 379:713-20. [PMID: 22281388 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(12)60028-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 937] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been 13 years since the discovery of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Our report provides the first description of hESC-derived cells transplanted into human patients. METHODS We started two prospective clinical studies to establish the safety and tolerability of subretinal transplantation of hESC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in patients with Stargardt's macular dystrophy and dry age-related macular degeneration--the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Preoperative and postoperative ophthalmic examinations included visual acuity, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and visual field testing. These studies are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT01345006 and NCT01344993. FINDINGS Controlled hESC differentiation resulted in greater than 99% pure RPE. The cells displayed typical RPE behaviour and integrated into the host RPE layer forming mature quiescent monolayers after transplantation in animals. The stage of differentiation substantially affected attachment and survival of the cells in vitro after clinical formulation. Lightly pigmented cells attached and spread in a substantially greater proportion (>90%) than more darkly pigmented cells after culture. After surgery, structural evidence confirmed cells had attached and continued to persist during our study. We did not identify signs of hyperproliferation, abnormal growth, or immune mediated transplant rejection in either patient during the first 4 months. Although there is little agreement between investigators on visual endpoints in patients with low vision, it is encouraging that during the observation period neither patient lost vision. Best corrected visual acuity improved from hand motions to 20/800 (and improved from 0 to 5 letters on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] visual acuity chart) in the study eye of the patient with Stargardt's macular dystrophy, and vision also seemed to improve in the patient with dry age-related macular degeneration (from 21 ETDRS letters to 28). INTERPRETATION The hESC-derived RPE cells showed no signs of hyperproliferation, tumorigenicity, ectopic tissue formation, or apparent rejection after 4 months. The future therapeutic goal will be to treat patients earlier in the disease processes, potentially increasing the likelihood of photoreceptor and central visual rescue. FUNDING Advanced Cell Technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Schwartz
- Jules Stein Eye Institute Retina Division, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Schmeer CW, Wohl SG, Isenmann S. Cell-replacement therapy and neural repair in the retina. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 349:363-74. [PMID: 22354517 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1335-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Visual impairment severely affects the quality of life of patients and their families and is also associated with a deep economic impact. The most common pathologies responsible for visual impairment and legally defined blindness in developed countries include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. These conditions share common pathophysiological features: dysfunction and loss of retinal neurons. To date, two main approaches are being taken to develop putative therapeutic strategies: neuroprotection and cell replacement. Cell replacement is a novel therapeutic approach to restore visual capabilities to the degenerated adult neural retina and represents an emerging field of regenerative neurotherapy. The discovery of a population of proliferative cells in the mammalian retina has raised the possibility of harnessing endogenous retinal stem cells to elicit retinal repair. Furthermore, the development of suitable protocols for the reprogramming of differentiated somatic cells to a pluripotent state further increases the therapeutic potential of stem-cell-based technologies for the treatment of major retinal diseases. Stem-cell transplantation in animal models has been most effectively used for the replacement of photoreceptors, although this therapeutic approach is also being used for inner retinal pathologies. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the development of cell-replacement approaches for the treatment of currently incurable degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian W Schmeer
- Hans Berger Clinic of Neurology, University Hospital Jena, Erlanger Allee 101, 07747 Jena, Germany.
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Mason SL, Stewart RMK, Kearns VR, Williams RL, Sheridan CM. Ocular epithelial transplantation: current uses and future potential. Regen Med 2011; 6:767-82. [DOI: 10.2217/rme.11.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual loss may be caused by a variety of ocular diseases and places a significant burden on society. Replacing or regenerating epithelial structures in the eye has been demonstrated to recover visual loss in a number of such diseases. Several types of cells (e.g., embryonic stem cells, adult stem/progenitor/differentiated epithelial cells and induced pluripotent cells) have generated much interest and research into their potential in restoring vision in a variety of conditions: from ocular surface disease to age-related macular degeneration. While there has been some success in clinical transplantation of conjunctival and particularly corneal epithelium utilizing ocular stem cells, in particular, from the limbus, the replacement of the retinal pigment epithelium by utilizing stem cell sources has yet to reach the clinic. Advances in our understanding of all of these cell types, their differentiation and subsequent optimization of culture conditions and development of suitable substrates for their transplantation will enable us to overcome current clinical obstacles. This article addresses the current status of knowledge concerning the biology of stem cells, their progeny and the use of differentiated epithelial cells to replace ocular epithelial cells. It will highlight the clinical outcomes to date and their potential for future clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon L Mason
- Department of Eye & Vision Science, Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Daulby Street, L69 3GA, UK
| | - Rosalind MK Stewart
- Department of Eye & Vision Science, Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Daulby Street, L69 3GA, UK
| | - Victoria R Kearns
- Department of Eye & Vision Science, Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Daulby Street, L69 3GA, UK
| | - Rachel L Williams
- Department of Eye & Vision Science, Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Daulby Street, L69 3GA, UK
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is characterized by the progressive loss of cells in the brain and spinal cord that leads to debilitation and death in 3 - 5 years. Only one therapeutic drug, riluzole, has been approved for ALS and this drug improves survival by 2 - 3 months. The need for new therapeutics that can postpone or slow the progression of the motor deficits and prolong survival is still a strong unmet medical need. AREAS COVERED Although there are a number of drugs currently in clinical trials for ALS, this review provides an overview of the most promising biological targets and preclinical strategies that are currently being developed and deployed. The list of targets for ALS was compiled from a variety of websites including individual companies that have ALS programs and include those from the author's experience. EXPERT OPINION Progress is being made in the identification of possible new therapeutics for ALS with recent efforts in understanding the genetic causes of the disease, susceptibility factors and the development of additional preclinical animal models. However, many challenges remain in the identification of new ALS therapeutics including: the use of relevant biomarkers, the need for an earlier diagnosis of the disease and additional animal models. Multiple strategies need to be tested in the clinic in order to determine what will be effective in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcie A Glicksman
- Brigham and Women's Hospital , Department of Neurology , 4th floor Partner's Research Building, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 , USA
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