1
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Chan J, Lim G, Lee R, Tong L. A Systematic Review of Tear Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and External Eye Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1369. [PMID: 38338647 PMCID: PMC10855337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
We aim to summarize the current evidence of Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF)s in external eye diseases and determine whether serum and plasma VEGF levels are associated with tear and ocular surface tissues. A systematic search of PUBMED and EMBASE was conducted using PRISMA guidelines between October 2022 and November 2023, with no restriction on language or publication date. Search terms included relevant MESH terms. These studies were evaluated for quality, and an assessment of the risk of bias was also carried out. Extracted data were then visually represented through relevant tables or figures. The initial literature search yielded 777 studies from PUBMED, 944 studies from EMBASE, and 10 studies from manual searches. Fourteen eligible studies were identified from 289 articles published from 2000 to 2023 in the English language or with English translations, including rabbit models, murine models, and human-derived samples. Most studies were retrospective in nature and case-control studies. Various common external eye diseases, such as dry eye disease (DED) and allergic eye disease were investigated. Despite limitations and small sample sizes, researchers have found elevated tissue levels of the VEGF in the vascularized cornea, especially in animal models, but there is no evidence of clear changes in the tear concentrations of VEGF in DED and allergic eye disease. Tear VEGF is associated with corneal vascularization. Anti-VEGF therapies may have the potential to manage such conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn Chan
- Edinburgh Surgery Online, The University of Edinburgh, Room G10/G11, Simon Laurie House, 196 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AQ, UK
| | - Gavril Lim
- Training and Education Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Ryan Lee
- Training and Education Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
| | - Louis Tong
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, SNEC, Building, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- Ocular Surface Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Eye Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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2
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Patnam M, Dommaraju SR, Masood F, Herbst P, Chang JH, Hu WY, Rosenblatt MI, Azar DT. Lymphangiogenesis Guidance Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications in Pathological States of the Cornea. Cells 2023; 12:319. [PMID: 36672254 PMCID: PMC9856498 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal lymphangiogenesis is one component of the neovascularization observed in several inflammatory pathologies of the cornea including dry eye disease and corneal graft rejection. Following injury, corneal (lymph)angiogenic privilege is impaired, allowing ingrowth of blood and lymphatic vessels into the previously avascular cornea. While the mechanisms underlying pathological corneal hemangiogenesis have been well described, knowledge of the lymphangiogenesis guidance mechanisms in the cornea is relatively scarce. Various signaling pathways are involved in lymphangiogenesis guidance in general, each influencing one or multiple stages of lymphatic vessel development. Most endogenous factors that guide corneal lymphatic vessel growth or regression act via the vascular endothelial growth factor C signaling pathway, a central regulator of lymphangiogenesis. Several exogenous factors have recently been repurposed and shown to regulate corneal lymphangiogenesis, uncovering unique signaling pathways not previously known to influence lymphatic vessel guidance. A strong understanding of the relevant lymphangiogenesis guidance mechanisms can facilitate the development of targeted anti-lymphangiogenic therapeutics for corneal pathologies. In this review, we examine the current knowledge of lymphatic guidance cues, their regulation of inflammatory states in the cornea, and recently discovered anti-lymphangiogenic therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehul Patnam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sunil R. Dommaraju
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Faisal Masood
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Paula Herbst
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Jin-Hong Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Wen-Yang Hu
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mark I. Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dimitri T. Azar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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3
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Hlophe YN, Joubert AM. Vascular endothelial growth
factor‐C
in activating vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐3 and chemokine receptor‐4 in melanoma adhesion. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:5743-5754. [DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yvette N. Hlophe
- Department of Physiology University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
| | - Anna M. Joubert
- Department of Physiology University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
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4
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Chew LA, Jun AS, Barnett BP. Corneal endothelial transplantation from bench to bedside: A review of animal models and their translational value for therapeutic development. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109241. [PMID: 36075460 PMCID: PMC10782848 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Chew
- Duke University, School of Medicine, 40 Duke Medicine Circle, 124 Davison Building, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Albert S Jun
- Wilmer Eye Institute, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Brad P Barnett
- California LASIK & Eye, 1111 Exposition Blvd., Bldg. 200 Ste. 2000, Sacramento, CA, 95815, USA.
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5
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Dan Cosnita AR, Raica M, Sava MP, Cimpean AM. Gene Expression Profile of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs) and Platelet-derived Growth Factors (PDGFs) in the Normal Cornea. In Vivo 2021; 35:805-813. [PMID: 33622873 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12321] [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: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Angiogenic growth factors expression is not known in the normal cornea. The aim was to study corneal gene expression profile of VEGF and PDGF pathways influencing the avascular state of cornea. MATERIALS AND METHODS cDNA synthesis was performed from mRNA extracted from five fresh pig corneas followed by cDNA synthesis and analysis of VEGF and PDGF pathways by TaqMan Array gene expression profile. RESULTS Normal pig cornea lacks VEGFR2 and VEGFR3 gene expression. MK2 and AKT1 genes were significantly overexpressed (p=0.000684, p=0.050995, respectively). Six PDGF pathway genes were overexpressed: TIAM1 (p=0.047), PIK3CA (p=0.00005), IKBKG (p=0.000006), PAK4 (p=0.034), RAC1 (p=0.000006 and PTGS2, p=0.00375). PDGF A was up-regulated, but not with a statistical significance (p=0.79911), while PDGFRα was down-regulated and PDGFRβ was not expressed. CONCLUSION Normal cornea avascularity is given by growth factor receptors down-regulation. Rapid corneal neovascularisation is induced by activation of the main angiogenic growth factors that induce angiogenic cascade and vessel recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Radu Dan Cosnita
- Department IX, Surgery I/Ophthalmology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Raica
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania.,Angiogenesis Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mihai Poenaru Sava
- Department IX, Surgery I/Ophthalmology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Anca Maria Cimpean
- Department of Microscopic Morphology/Histology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania; .,Angiogenesis Research Center, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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6
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Romano V, Steger B, Ahmad M, Coco G, Pagano L, Ahmad S, Zhao Y, Zheng Y, Kaye SB. Imaging of vascular abnormalities in ocular surface disease. Surv Ophthalmol 2021; 67:31-51. [PMID: 33992663 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The vascular system of the ocular surface plays a central role in infectious, autoimmune, inflammatory, traumatic and neoplastic diseases. The development, application, and monitoring of treatments for vascular abnormalities depends on the in vivo analysis of the ocular surface vasculature. Until recently, ocular surface vascular imaging was confined to biomicroscopic and color photographic assessment, both limited by poor reproducibility and the inability to image lymphatic vasculature in vivo. The evolvement and clinical implementation of innovative imaging modalities including confocal microscopy, intravenous, and optical coherence tomography-based angiography now allows standardized quantitative and functional vascular assessment with potential applicability to automated analysis algorithms and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Romano
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Service, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Bernhard Steger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Mohammad Ahmad
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Service, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Giulia Coco
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Service, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Clinical Science and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Pagano
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Service, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Humanitas Clinical and Research, Rozzano (Mi) Italy
| | | | - Yitian Zhao
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo, China
| | - Yalin Zheng
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen B Kaye
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Service, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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7
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Patterson KC, Queval CJ, Gutierrez MG. Granulomatous Inflammation in Tuberculosis and Sarcoidosis: Does the Lymphatic System Contribute to Disease? Bioessays 2019; 41:e1900086. [PMID: 31588585 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A striking and unexplained feature of granulomatous inflammation is its anatomical association with the lymphatic system. Accumulating evidence suggests that lymphatic tracks and granulomas may alter the function of each other. The formation of new lymphatics, or lymphangiogenesis, is an adaptive response to tumor formation, infection, and wound healing. Granulomas also may induce lymphangiogenesis which, through a variety of mechanisms, could contribute to disease outcomes in tuberculosis and sarcoidosis. On the other hand, alterations in lymph node function and lymphatic draining may be primary events which attenuate the risk and severity of granulomatous inflammation. This review begins with an introduction of granulomatous inflammation and the lymphatic system. A role of the lymphatic system in tuberculosis and sarcoidosis is then hypothesized. With a focus on lymphangiogenesis in these diseases, and on the potential for this process to promote dissemination, parallels are established with the well-established role of lymphangiogenesis in tumor biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen C Patterson
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, 94N-SRd, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9PX, UK.,Host-Pathogen Interactions in Tuberculosis Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Christophe J Queval
- Host-Pathogen Interactions in Tuberculosis Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maximiliano G Gutierrez
- Host-Pathogen Interactions in Tuberculosis Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
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8
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Morfoisse F, Noel A. Lymphatic and blood systems: Identical or fraternal twins? Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2019; 114:105562. [PMID: 31278994 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2019.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Blood and lymphatic systems work in close collaboration to ensure their respective physiological functions. The lymphatic vessel network is being extensively studied, but has been overlooked as compared to the blood vasculature mainly due to the problematic discrimination of lymphatic vessels from the blood ones. This issue has been fortunately resolved in the past decade leading to the emergence of a huge amount of data in lymphatic biology revealing many shared features with the blood vasculature. However, this likeliness between the two vascular systems may lead to a simplistic view of lymphatics and a direct transcription of what is known for the blood system to the lymphatic one, thereby neglecting the lymphatic specificities. In this context, this review aims to clarify the main differences between the two vascular systems focusing on recently discovered lymphatic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Morfoisse
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA (GIGA-Cancer), Liege University, B23, Avenue Hippocrate 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Agnès Noel
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA (GIGA-Cancer), Liege University, B23, Avenue Hippocrate 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium.
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9
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Corneal lymphangiogenesis ameliorates corneal inflammation and edema in late stage of bacterial keratitis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2984. [PMID: 30814667 PMCID: PMC6393676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39876-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels play a crucial role in systemic immune response and regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis. Corneal lymphangiogenesis in bacterial keratitis has not been studied. In this study, we investigated the mechanism and the role of corneal lymphangiogenesis in a murine bacterial keratitis model using Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We first demonstrated that corneal lymphangiogenesis was enhanced mainly in the late stage of bacterial keratitis, contrary to corneal angiogenesis that started earlier. Corresponding to the delayed lymphangiogenesis, expression of the pro-lymphangiogenic factors VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 increased in the late stage of bacterial keratitis. We further found that F4/80 and CD11b positive macrophages played an essential role in corneal lymphangiogenesis. Notably, macrophages were specifically involved in corneal lymphangiogenesis in the late stage of bacterial keratitis. Finally, we demonstrated the beneficial role of corneal lymphangiogenesis in ameliorating the clinical course of bacterial keratitis. Our study showed that bacterial activity was not directly involved in the late stage of keratitis, while corneal lymphangiogenesis reduced corneal edema and clinical manifestation in the late stage of bacterial keratitis. These findings suggest that the process of lymphangiogenesis in bacterial keratitis ameliorates corneal inflammation and edema in the late stage of bacterial keratitis.
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10
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The Role of Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells in Regulating Corneal (Lymph)angiogenic Privilege and the Micromilieu of the Limbal Niche following UV Exposure. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:8620172. [PMID: 29853920 PMCID: PMC5964490 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8620172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is a clear structure, void of blood, and lymphatic vessels, functioning as our window to the world. Limbal epithelial stem cells, occupying the area between avascular cornea and vascularized conjunctiva, have been implicated in tissue border maintenance, preventing conjunctivalisation and propagation of blood and lymphatic vessels into the cornea. Defects in limbal epithelial stem cells are linked to corneal neovascularisation, including lymphangiogenesis, chronic inflammation, conjunctivalisation, epithelial abnormalities including the presence of goblet cells, breaks in Bowman's membrane, persistent epithelial defects and ulceration, ocular surface squamous neoplasia, lipid keratopathy, pain, discomfort, and compromised vision. It has been postulated that pterygium is an example of focal limbal deficiency. Previous reports showing changes occurring in limbal epithelium during pterygium pathogenesis suggest that there is a link to stem cell damage. In this light, pterygium can serve as a model disease of UV-induced stem cell damage also characterised by corneal blood and lymphangiogenesis. This review focuses on the role of corneal and limbal epithelial cells and the stem cell niche in maintaining corneal avascularity and corneal immune privilege and how this may be deregulated following UV exposure. We present an overview of the PUBMED literature in the field as well as recent work from our laboratories.
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11
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Osaki T, Serrano JC, Kamm RD. Cooperative Effects of Vascular Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis. REGENERATIVE ENGINEERING AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2018; 4:120-132. [PMID: 30417074 DOI: 10.1007/s40883-018-0054-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we modeled lymphangiogenesis and vascular angiogenesis in a microdevice using a tissue engineering approach. Lymphatic vessels (LV) and blood vessels (BV) were fabricated by sacrificial molding with seeding human lymphatic endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells into molded microchannels (600 μm diameter). During subsequent perfusion culture, lymphangiogenesis and vascular angiogenesis were induced by addition of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and VEGF-C or VEGF-A characterized by podoplanin and Prox-1 expression. The lymphatic capillaries formed button-like junctions treated with dexamethasone. To test the potential for screening anti-angiogenic (vascular and lymphatic) factors, antagonists of VEGF were introduced. We found that an inhibitor of VEGF-R3 did not completely suppress lymphatic angiogenesis with BVs present, although lymphatic angiogenesis was selectively prevented by addition of a VEGF-R3 inhibitor without BVs. To probe the mechanism of action, we focus on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion by vascular endothelial cells and lymphatic endothelial cells under monoculture or co-culture conditions. We found that vascular angiogenesis facilitated lymphangiogenesis via remodeling of the local microenvironment by the increased secretion of MMP, mainly by endothelial cells. Applications of this model include a drug screening assay for corneal disease and models for tumorigenesis including lymphatic angiogenesis and vascular angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jean C Serrano
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.,BioSystems and Micromechanics (BioSyM), Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
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12
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Transient Ingrowth of Lymphatic Vessels into the Physiologically Avascular Cornea Regulates Corneal Edema and Transparency. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7227. [PMID: 28775329 PMCID: PMC5543160 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07806-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphangiogenesis is essential for fluid homeostasis in vascularized tissues. In the normally avascular cornea, however, pathological lymphangiogenesis mediates diseases like corneal transplant rejection, dry eye disease, and allergy. So far, a physiological role for lymphangiogenesis in a primarily avascular site such as the cornea has not been described. Using a mouse model of perforating corneal injury that causes acute and severe fluid accumulation in the cornea, we show that lymphatics transiently and selectively invade the cornea and regulate the resolution of corneal edema. Pharmacological blockade of lymphangiogenesis via VEGFR-3 inhibition results in increased corneal thickness due to delayed drainage of corneal edema and a trend towards prolonged corneal opacification. Notably, lymphatics are also detectable in the cornea of a patient with acute edema due to spontaneous Descemet´s (basement) membrane rupture in keratoconus, mimicking this animal model and highlighting the clinical relevance of lymphangiogenesis in corneal fluid homeostasis. Together, our findings provide evidence that lymphangiogenesis plays an unexpectedly beneficial role in the regulation of corneal edema and transparency. This might open new treatment options in blinding diseases associated with corneal edema and transparency loss. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time that physiological lymphangiogenesis also occurs in primarily avascular sites.
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13
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Gao N, Liu X, Wu J, Li J, Dong C, Wu X, Xiao X, Yu FSX. CXCL10 suppression of hem- and lymph-angiogenesis in inflamed corneas through MMP13. Angiogenesis 2017. [PMID: 28623423 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9561-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Though not present in the normal adult cornea, both hem- and lymph-angiogenesis can be induced in this tissue after an inflammatory, infectious, or traumatic insult. We previously showed that the chemokine CXCL10 plays a key role in eradicating invading Candida (C.) albicans in C57BL6 mouse corneas. However, even after the clearance of pathogens, infection-induced inflammation and angiogenesis continue to progress in the cornea. The aim of this study is define the role of CXCL10 as a major angiostatic factor in modulating cornea angiogenesis in B6 mouse corneas under pathogenic conditions. We showed that epithelial expression of CXCL10, driven by AAV9 vector, suppressed both infection- and inflammation-induced hem and lymph angiogenesis, whereas the neutralization of CXCL10 as well as its receptor CXCR3 greatly promoted these processes. The inhibitory effect of CXCL10 was unrelated to its antimicrobial activity, but through the suppression of the expression of many angiogenic factors, including VEGFa and c, and MMP-13 in vivo. Inhibition of MMP13 but not TIMPs, attenuated suture-induced neovascularization but had no effects on CXCL10 expression. Strikingly, topical application of CXCL10 post-C. albicans infection effectively blocked both hem- and lymph-angiogenesis and preserved the integrity of sensory nerves in the cornea. Taken together, CXCL10 has strong inhibitory effects on neovascularization, whereas MMP13 is required for neovascularization in C. albicans-infected corneas and the local application of CXCL10 or MMP13 inhibitors, alone or as adjuvant therapy, may target hem- and lymph-angiogenesis in the inflamed corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4717 St. Antoine Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.,Department of Anatomy/Cell Biology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayin Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Juan Li
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Chen Dong
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, 450051, Henan, China
| | - Xinyi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Fu-Shin X Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4717 St. Antoine Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA. .,Department of Anatomy/Cell Biology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
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14
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Eun JS, Cho KJ. Two Cases of Corneal Neovascularization Improved by Electrocauterization and Subconjunctival Bevacizumab Injection. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2017. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2017.58.8.981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Soo Eun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Kyong Jin Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
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15
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Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is primarily known as a proangiogenic factor and is one of the most important growth and survival factors affecting the vascular endothelium. However, recent studies have shown that VEGF also plays a vital role in the immune environment. In addition to the traditional growth factor role of VEGF and VEGF receptors (VEGFRs), they have a complicated relationship with various immune cells. VEGF also reportedly inhibits the differentiation and function of immune cells during hematopoiesis. Dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and lymphocytes further express certain types of VEGF receptors. VEGF can be secreted as well by tumor cells through the autocrine pathway and can stimulate the function of cancer stemness. This review will provide a paradigm shift in our understanding of the role of VEGF/VEGFR signaling in the immune and cancer environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Research Center of Lung Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiu-Bao Ren
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Research Center of Lung Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
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16
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Padera TP, Meijer EFJ, Munn LL. The Lymphatic System in Disease Processes and Cancer Progression. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2016; 18:125-58. [PMID: 26863922 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-112315-031200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Advances in our understanding of the structure and function of the lymphatic system have made it possible to identify its role in a variety of disease processes. Because it is involved not only in fluid homeostasis but also in immune cell trafficking, the lymphatic system can mediate and ultimately alter immune responses. Our rapidly increasing knowledge of the molecular control of the lymphatic system will inevitably lead to new and effective therapies for patients with lymphatic dysfunction. In this review, we discuss the molecular and physiological control of lymphatic vessel function and explore how the lymphatic system contributes to many disease processes, including cancer and lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P Padera
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114;
| | - Eelco F J Meijer
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114;
| | - Lance L Munn
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114;
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Hampel U, Frömmling P, Bräuer L, Schaefer I, Sel S, Holland D, Paulsen F. Somatostatin supports corneal wound healing in vivo. Ann Anat 2016; 205:1-8. [PMID: 26844626 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 01/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the influence of somatostatin (SST) and its analog octreotid (Oct) on corneal wound healing processes. METHODS The wound healing rate in C57BL/6 mice eyes under SST and Oct treatment was analyzed using an alkali-induced corneal wounding model. Effects of SST and Oct on cell proliferation, migration and quantified protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on human corneal epithelial cells (HCE, cell line) were evaluated by means of electric cell-substrate impedance sensing, scratch migration assays and ELISA. ERK1/2 and p38 phosphorylation was investigated by semi-quantitative western blot analysis. RESULTS Ten nanograms per microliters of SST significantly accelerated the wound closure rate of corneal defects in vivo. SST and Oct had no influence on HCE cell proliferation and migration and did not activate ERK1/2 or p38 signaling in HCE cells. However, there was increased VEGF protein expression in cytosolic proteins and medium supernatants of HCE upon Oct stimulation for 24h. One and 10ng/ml Oct led to a 2.5-fold and 100ng/ml Oct to a 4-fold upregulation of VEGF protein expression. CONCLUSION The data implicate that SST promotes corneal wound healing in a mouse model. However, using a HCE cell line in vitro, the wound healing mechanism does not seem to be supported by proliferation and migration processes or by activation of ERK1/2 and p38 signaling pathways. Other possible mechanisms could be the activation of other pathways and the induction of growth factors such as VEGF that modulate the observed corneal wound healing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Hampel
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Paul Frömmling
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lars Bräuer
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ivonne Schaefer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, HELIOS Klinikum Erfurt, Germany
| | - Saadettin Sel
- University Medical Center for Ophthalmology, Ruprecht Karl University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Friedrich Paulsen
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
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18
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Norman S, Riley PR. Anatomy and development of the cardiac lymphatic vasculature: Its role in injury and disease. Clin Anat 2015; 29:305-15. [DOI: 10.1002/ca.22638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Norman
- Department of Physiology; Anatomy and Genetics; University of Oxford; Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Paul R. Riley
- Department of Physiology; Anatomy and Genetics; University of Oxford; Oxford United Kingdom
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19
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Tang X, Sun J, Du L, Du H, Wang L, Mai J, Zhang F, Liu P. Neuropilin-2 contributes to LPS-induced corneal inflammatory lymphangiogenesis. Exp Eye Res 2015; 143:110-9. [PMID: 26500194 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 08/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin-2 (NP2), a high-affinity kinase-deficient co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C, is involved in embryonic vessel development, tumor growth, tumor lymphangiogenesis and metastasis. However, the pathological role of NP2 in other disorders, particularly under inflammatory lymphangiogenic conditions, remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of NP2 in inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis in vivo using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced corneal neovascularization mouse model and in vitro using a macrophage-mouse lymphatic endothelial cell (mLEC) co-culture system. In the mouse model of LPS-induced inflammatory corneal neovascularization, NP2 and VEGFR-3 expression were rapidly up-regulated after LPS stimulation, and microRNA-mediated knockdown of NP2 significantly inhibited the up-regulation of VEGFR-3. Moreover, NP2 knockdown specifically inhibited the increase in the number of corneal lymphatic vessels but did not influence the increase in the number of blood vessels or macrophage recruitment induced by LPS. In a macrophage-LEC co-culture system, LPS up-regulated VEGFR-3 expression and induced mLEC migration and proliferation, and NP2 knockdown inhibited the up-regulation of VEGFR-3 expression and mLEC migration but not proliferation. Taken together, these results suggested that NP2 might be involved in the regulation of lymphangiogenesis via the regulation of VEGFR-3 expression during corneal inflammation. Therefore, NP2-targeted therapy might be a promising strategy for selective inhibition of inflammatory lymphangiogenesis in corneal inflammatory diseases, transplant immunology and oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianling Tang
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Junfeng Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Lingling Du
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Haitao Du
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Liyuan Wang
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Jieying Mai
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Fengmin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Immunity and Infection, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Ping Liu
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China.
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20
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Schöllhorn L, Bock F, Cursiefen C. Thrombospondin-1 as a Regulator of Corneal Inflammation and Lymphangiogenesis: Effects on Dry Eye Disease and Corneal Graft Immunology. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2015; 31:376-85. [PMID: 26154823 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2015.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is a matricellular glycoprotein that belongs to a family of evolutionary highly conserved calcium-binding proteins consisting of 5 members (TSP-1-TSP-5). In the eye, TSP-1 is expressed by several ocular cell types and is also detectable in the aqueous humor and the vitreous body. So far, TSP-1 is one of the major activators of TGFβ, suggesting a strong influence on various important cellular functions and interactions such as differentiation, migration, and wound healing. TSP-1 is also a key endogenous inhibitor of hem- and lymphangiogenesis. Several lines of evidence indicate a crucial role of TSP-1 in maintaining the ocular immune and angiogenic privilege, for example, by regulating T lymphocytes and the tolerance-promoting properties of ocular antigen-presenting cells. This review discusses the role of TSP-1 in dry eye disease and corneal graft rejection through its effects on hem- and lymphangiogenesis, as well as on the underlying immune responses. Recent work will be reviewed showing by which molecular mechanism TSP-1 modulates inflammatory processes during ocular diseases. This opens potential new treatment avenues in inflammatory and (lymph)angiogenic ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Schöllhorn
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne , Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne , Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne , Cologne, Germany
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21
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Abdelfattah NS, Amgad M, Zayed AA, Salem H, Elkhanany AE, Hussein H, Abd El-Baky N. Clinical correlates of common corneal neovascular diseases: a literature review. Int J Ophthalmol 2015; 8:182-93. [PMID: 25709930 DOI: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-3959.2015.01.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A large subset of corneal pathologies involves the formation of new blood and lymph vessels (neovascularization), leading to compromised visual acuity. This article aims to review the clinical causes and presentations of corneal neovascularization (CNV) by examining the mechanisms behind common CNV-related corneal pathologies, with a particular focus on herpes simplex stromal keratitis, contact lenses-induced keratitis and CNV secondary to keratoplasty. Moreover, we reviewed CNV in the context of different types of corneal transplantation and keratoprosthesis, and summarized the most relevant treatments available so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizar Saleh Abdelfattah
- Doheny Image Reading Center, Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 1355 San Pablo Street, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Mohamed Amgad
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11956, Egypt
| | - Amira A Zayed
- Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester 55905, MN, USA
| | - Hamdy Salem
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria 21131, Egypt
| | - Ahmed E Elkhanany
- Department of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester 55905, MN, USA
| | - Heba Hussein
- Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11956, Egypt
| | - Nawal Abd El-Baky
- Antibody Laboratory, Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, Alexandria 21934, Egypt
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Abstract
Ocular neovascularization can affect almost all the tissues of the eye: the cornea, the iris, the retina, and the choroid. Pathological neovascularization is the underlying cause of vision loss in common ocular conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity and age-related macular neovascularization. Glycosylation is the most common covalent posttranslational modification of proteins in mammalian cells. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that glycosylation influences the process of angiogenesis and impacts activation, proliferation, and migration of endothelial cells as well as the interaction of angiogenic endothelial cells with other cell types necessary to form blood vessels. Recent studies have provided evidence that members of the galectin class of β-galactoside-binding proteins modulate angiogenesis by novel carbohydrate-based recognition systems involving interactions between glycans of angiogenic cell surface receptors and galectins. This review discusses the significance of glycosylation and the role of galectins in the pathogenesis of ocular neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna I Markowska
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA Ymir Genomics LLC, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Zhiyi Cao
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA New England Eye Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Noorjahan Panjwani
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA New England Eye Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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23
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Ihnatko R, Edén U, Lagali N, Dellby A, Fagerholm P. Analysis of protein composition and protein expression in the tear fluid of patients with congenital aniridia. J Proteomics 2013; 94:78-88. [PMID: 24061003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2013.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Aniridia is a rare congenital genetic disorder caused by haploinsuffiency of the PAX6 gene, the master gene for development of the eye. The expression of tear proteins in aniridia is unknown. To screen for proteins involved in the aniridia pathophysiology, the tear fluid of patients with diagnosed congenital aniridia was examined using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Two-dimensional map of tear proteins in aniridia has been established and 7 proteins were differentially expressed with P<0.01 between aniridia patients and control subjects. Five of them were more abundant in healthy subjects, particularly α-enolase, peroxiredoxin 6, cystatin S, gelsolin, apolipoprotein A-1 and two other proteins, zinc-α2-glycoprotein and lactoferrin were more expressed in the tears of aniridia patients. Moreover, immunoblot analysis revealed elevated levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in aniridia tears which is in concordance with clinical finding of pathological blood and lymph vessels in the central and peripheral cornea of aniridia patients. The proteins with different expression in patients' tears may be new candidate molecules involved in the pathophysiology of aniridia and thus may be helpful for development of novel treatment strategies for the symptomatic therapy of this vision threatening condition. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE This study is first to demonstrate protein composition and protein expression in aniridic tears and identifies proteins with different abundance in tear fluid from patients with congenital aniridia vs. healthy tears.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Ihnatko
- Integrative Regenerative Medicine Centre and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, 581 85 Linköping, Sweden.
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Bock F, Maruyama K, Regenfuss B, Hos D, Steven P, Heindl LM, Cursiefen C. Novel anti(lymph)angiogenic treatment strategies for corneal and ocular surface diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2013; 34:89-124. [PMID: 23348581 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Revised: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is one of the few tissues which actively maintain an avascular state, i.e. the absence of blood and lymphatic vessels (corneal [lymph]angiogenic privilege). Nonetheless do several diseases interfere with this privilege and cause pathologic corneal hem- and lymphangiogenesis. The ingrowths of pathologic blood and lymphatic vessels into the cornea not only reduce transparency and thereby visual acuity up to blindness, but also significantly increases the rate of graft rejections after subsequent corneal transplantation. Therefore great interest exists in new strategies to target pathologic corneal (lymph)angiogenesis to promote graft survival. This review gives an overview on the vascular anatomy of the normal ocular surface, on the molecular mechanisms contributing to the corneal (lymph)angiogenic privilege and on the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during pathological neovascularization of the cornea. In addition we summarize the current preclinical and clinical evidence for three novel treatment strategies against ocular surface diseases based on targeting pathologic (lymph)angiogenesis: (a) modulation of the immune responses after (corneal) transplantation by targeting pathologic (lymph)angiogenesis prior to and after transplantation, (b) novel concepts against metastasis and recurrence of ocular surface tumors such as malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva by anti(lymph)angiogenic therapy and (c) new ideas on how to target ocular surface inflammatory diseases such as dry eye by targeting conjunctival and corneal lymphatic vessels. Based on compelling preclinical evidence and early data from clinical trials the novel therapeutic concepts of promoting graft survival, inhibiting tumor metastasis and dampening ocular surface inflammation and dry eye disease by targeting (lymph)angiogenesis are on their way to translation into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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25
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Kesler CT, Liao S, Munn LL, Padera TP. Lymphatic vessels in health and disease. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2012. [PMID: 23209022 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic vasculature plays vital roles in tissue fluid balance, immune defense, metabolism, and cancer metastasis. In adults, lymphatic vessel formation and remodeling occur primarily during inflammation, development of the corpus luteum, wound healing, and tumor growth. Unlike the blood circulation, where unidirectional flow is sustained by the pumping actions of the heart, pumping actions intrinsic to the lymphatic vessels themselves are important drivers of lymphatic flow. This review summarizes critical components that control lymphatic physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina T Kesler
- E. L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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26
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Wang TB, Chen ZG, Wei XQ, Wei B, Dong WG. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor-C and lymphoangiogenesis are associated with the lymph node metastasis and prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer. ANZ J Surg 2012; 81:694-9. [PMID: 22295309 DOI: 10.1111/j.1445-2197.2010.05539.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study aims to investigate the relationship among serum vascular endothelial growth factor (SVEGF-C), VEGF-C expression and lymph vessel density (LVD) in tumour tissue, and their influence to colorectal carcinoma (CRC). METHODS The SVEGF-C concentration of 110 patients with CRC and 40 healthy donors was examined by ELISA. The 110 tumour tissues and 40 normal colorectal specimens were examined by immunohistochemical staining (SP method) with VEGF-C and podoplanin (lymphatic vessel specific antibody). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis determined the influence on CRC prognosis. RESULTS CRC SVEGF-C level (889.0 ± 264.0 pg/mL) significantly exceeded (P = 0.000) the control level (373.2 ± 97.3 ng/L), and was significantly higher in T3, lymph node metastasis (LNM), distant metastasis, and pTNM groups III and IV. LNM prediction sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of SVEGF-C were 85.7, 80.0 and 83.6%, respectively (875 pg/mL cut-off). VEGF-C expression was elevated in CRC versus control patients (P = 0.000), and was significantly related to LNM and pTNM stages III and IV. Mean LVD in CRC (6.3 ± 0.7/200 HP) significantly exceeded control mean (3.0 ± 0.7/200 HP) (P = 0.000). LVD was significantly higher in LNM and pTNM stages III and IV. SVEGF-C level was significantly higher in VEGF-C positive versus negative patients (P = 0.000), and was related to LVD (P = 0.009). Kaplan–Meier ranking of prognostic factors was SVEGF-C level (P = 0.000), VEGF-C expression (P = 0.001) and LVD (P = 0.012). CONCLUSION SVEGF-C level, VEGF-C and LVD are related to LNM and poor prognosis in patients with CRC. SVEGF-C may be a biomarker for LNM in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Bao Wang
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
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27
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Yan H, Qi C, Ling S, Li W, Liang L. Lymphatic vessels correlate closely with inflammation index in alkali burned cornea. Curr Eye Res 2010; 35:685-97. [PMID: 20673045 DOI: 10.3109/02713681003793136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the relationship between corneal lymphangiogenesis and inflammation in alkali burned corneas. METHODS Rat corneal lymphatic and blood vessels were labeled and distinguished by whole mount immunofluorescence and 5'-nase-alkaline phosphatase (5'-NA-ALP) double enzyme-histochemistry. Then, lymphatic vessel areas (LVA) and lymphatic vessel counting (LVC) were examined. Corneal inflammation was evaluated by inflammation index (IF) grading, histopathology, electron microscope, and polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) infiltration. The relationship between LVC, LVA, IF, and PMN was examined, respectively. In addition, corneal lymphatic vessels of eleven human alkali burned corneas were examined by lymphatic vessel endothelial receptor (LYVE-1) immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Corneal lymphangiogenesis occurred on Day 3, reached the peak at the end of two weeks, and disappeared five weeks after alkaline burns. Both LVA and LVC were strongly and positively correlated with IF after corneal alkaline burns. However, the relationship between LVC and PMN, between LVA and PMN were significant but converse. Among eleven human alkali burned corneas, corneal lymphangiogenesis was present in three corneas. CONCLUSIONS Corneal lymphagiogenesis develops after alkaline burns and correlates closely with corneal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nanshan Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Shenzhen, PR China
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28
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von der Weid PY, Rainey KJ. Review article: lymphatic system and associated adipose tissue in the development of inflammatory bowel disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32:697-711. [PMID: 20636483 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2010.04407.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lymphatic system plays critical roles in tissue fluid homoeostasis, immune defence and metabolic maintenance. Lymphatic vessels transport lymph, proteins, immune cells and digested lipids, allowing fluid and proteins to be returned to the blood stream, lipids to be stored and metabolized and antigens to be sampled in lymph nodes. Lymphatic drainage is mainly driven by rhythmic constrictions intrinsic to the vessels and critically modulated by fluid pressure and inflammatory mediators. AIM To collect and discuss the compelling available information linking the lymphatic system, adiposity and inflammation. METHODS A literature search was performed through PubMed focusing on lymphatic system, inflammation, immune cells and fat transport and function in the context of IBD. RESULTS Evidence collected allows us to propose the following working model. Compromised lymph drainage, reported in IBD, leads to oedema, lymphangiogenesis, impaired immune cell trafficking and lymph leakage. Lymph factor(s) stimulate adipose tissue to proliferate and produce cytokines, which affect immune cell functions and exacerbate inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Understanding the lymphatic system's role in immune cell trafficking and immune responses, contribution to fat transport, distribution, metabolism and implication in the pathogenesis of chronic intestinal inflammation may provide the basis for new therapeutic strategies and improved quality-of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- P-Y von der Weid
- Snyder Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Features of corneal neovascularization and lymphangiogenesis induced by different etiological factors in mice. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2010; 249:55-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s00417-010-1442-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2009] [Revised: 05/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/19/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Corneal transparency: genesis, maintenance and dysfunction. Brain Res Bull 2009; 81:198-210. [PMID: 19481138 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2009.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Optimal vision is contingent upon transparency of the cornea. Corneal neovascularization, trauma and, surgical procedures such as photorefractive keratectomy and graft rejection after penetrating keratoplasty can lead to corneal opacification. In this article we identify the underlying basis of corneal transparency and factors that compromise the integrity of the cornea. With evidence from work on animal models and clinical studies, we explore the molecular mechanisms of both corneal avascularity and its dysfunction. We also seek to review therapeutic regimens that can safely salvage and restore corneal transparency.
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Jeong JH, Chun YS, Kim JC. The Effects of a Subtenoncapsular Injection of Bevacizumab for Ocular Surface Disease With Corneal Neovascularization. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2009. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2009.50.10.1475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hoon Jeong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeoun Sook Chun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Chan Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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32
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Guo R, Yamashita M, Zhang Q, Zhou Q, Chen D, Reynolds DG, Awad HA, Yanoso L, Zhao L, Schwarz EM, Zhang YE, Boyce BF, Xing L. Ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 mediates tumor necrosis factor-induced systemic bone loss by promoting proteasomal degradation of bone morphogenetic signaling proteins. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:23084-92. [PMID: 18567580 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m709848200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are often accompanied by systemic bone loss, which is thought to occur through inflammatory cytokine-mediated stimulation of osteoclast resorption and inhibition of osteoblast function. However, the mechanisms involved in osteoblast inhibition remain poorly understood. Here we test the hypothesis that increased Smad ubiquitin regulatory factor 1 (Smurf1)-mediated degradation of the bone morphogenetic protein pathway signaling proteins mediates reduced bone formation in inflammatory disorders. Osteoblasts derived from bone marrow or long bone samples of adult tumor necrosis factor (TNF) transgenic (TNF-Tg) mice were used in this study. TNF decreased the steady-state levels of Smad1 and Runx2 protein similarly to those in long bones of TNF-Tg mice. In the presence of the proteasome inhibitor MG132, TNF increased accumulation of ubiquitinated Smad1 protein. TNF administration over calvarial bones caused decreases in Smad1 and Runx2 protein levels and mRNA expression of osteoblast marker genes in wild-type, but not in Smurf1(-/-) mice. Vertebral bone volume and strength of TNF-Tg/Smurf1(-/-) mice were examined by a combination of micro-CT, bone histomorphometry, and biomechanical testing and compared with those from TNF-Tg littermates. TNF-Tg mice had significantly decreased bone volume and biomechanical properties, which were partially rescued in TNF-Tg/Smurf1(-/-) mice. We conclude that in chronic inflammatory disorders where TNF is increased, TNF induces the expression of ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 and promotes ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of Smad1 and Runx2, leading to systemic bone loss. Inhibition of ubiquitin-mediated Smad1 and Runx2 degradation in osteoblasts could help to treat inflammation-induced osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolin Guo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York 14642, USA
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Regina M, Zimmerman R, Malik G, Gausas R. Lymphangiogenesis concurrent with haemangiogenesis in the human cornea. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2007; 35:541-4. [PMID: 17760636 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2007.01549.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal transplant rejection can occur with and without neovascularization; therefore, it is necessary to elucidate what other factors allow for rejection. It has been suggested that the lymphatic system may play a role in graft failure, but it has also been held that the cornea is devoid of lymphatics. Use of a new monoclonal antibody against a lymphatic endothelial marker, D2-40, has been used to detect lymphatics in other tissues. The purpose of this study was to use this new tool to determine if the human cornea can undergo lymphangiogenesis. METHODS Twelve corneal buttons submitted for routine pathology were subjected to immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal antibody against D2-40 to detect the presence/absence of lymphatics by light microscopy. RESULTS By the criteria defined, lymphatic vessels were identified in seven out of 12 corneal buttons. In these cases, there was also evidence of neovascularization. Lymphatic positive buttons included four cases where there were histological markers of inflammation. There were no identifiable lymphatics in the remaining five cases and no sign of vascularization. CONCLUSIONS Corneal lymphatics were identified in association with corneal neovascularization, via the use of a monoclonal antibody against D2-40. In non-vascularized corneas, lymphatics were absent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Regina
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-2689, USA
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Barros LFM, Belfort R. The effects of the subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (Avastin®) on angiogenesis in the rat cornea. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2007; 79:389-94. [PMID: 17768531 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652007000300004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2007] [Accepted: 04/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the use of the subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (Avastin®) on angiogenesis in the rat cornea. Corneas of 20 Wistar male rats were cauterized with silver nitrate crystal. Animals were divided in four groups: control group (GC) that received subconjunctivally 0.02 ml of 0.9% saline solution on the day of the lesion; group GO that received subconjunctivally 0.02 ml of bevacizumab just after the lesion; group G3 that received bevacizumab on day 3 and group G5 that received bevacizumab on day 5 after lesion. Animals were euthanized on day 7. The newly formed vessels were quantified after China Ink perfusion and photographs were obtained and analyzed in a computerized system (Image Pro-Plus®). In the control group, neovascularization covered 53.56% ± 15.11 (mean ± SD) of the corneal surface, compared with 35.57% ± 18.80 (mean ± SD) in the G0 group, 30.60%±11.82 (mean±SD) in the G3 and 35.86%±0.07 (mean±SD) in the G5. The results showed an inhibition of angiogenesis when the control group was compared with all treated groups. These results suggest that subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab is able to inhibit corneal angiogenesis independently of the day of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz F M Barros
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, 05508-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Wang TB, Deng MH, Qiu WS, Dong WG. Association of serum vascular endothelial growth factor-C and lymphatic vessel density with lymph node metastasis and prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2007; 13:1794-7; discussion 1797-8. [PMID: 17465468 PMCID: PMC4149954 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v13.i12.1794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate whether serum vascular endothelial growth factor-C (SVEGF-C), VEGF-C, and lymphatic vessel density (LVD) in tumor tissues are related to lymph node metastasis (LNM) and prognosis in gastric cancer.
METHODS: SVEGF-C levels of 80 gastric cancer patients and 20 healthy donors were examined using ELISA. VEGF-C expression and LVD were examined using immunohistochemical staining. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to determine their influence on the prognosis of the patients.
RESULTS: The SVEGF-C level in gastric cancer patients (595.9 ± 201.0 ng/L) was significantly higher (P = 0.000) than controls (360.0 ± 97.4 ng/L). Both SVEGF-C and LVD were significantly higher in poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas, T3 and T4, LNM, distant metastasis, and pTNM groups III and IV (P = 0.000). The sensitivity and specificity of SVEGF-C for predicting LNM were 82.8% and 81.8%, respectively (cut-off = 542.5 ng/L). The positive expression rate of VEGF-C was significantly higher in cancerous than in normal tissues (65% vs 20%; P = 0.001). VEGF-C expression up-regulation was significantly related to differentiation, depth of invasion, LNM, distant metastasis, and pTNM stage (P = 0.000). LVD was 10.7 ± 3.1/200 HP in the experimental group vs 4.9 ± 1.3/200 HP in controls (P = 0.000); LVD in cancerous tissues with and without LNM was 12.0 ± 2.7/200 HP vs 7.6 ± 0.5/200 HP, respectively (P = 0.000). SVEGF-C and LVD were significantly higher in VEGF-C positive than in negative patients (P = 0.000); SVEGF-C level was related to LVD (P = 0.000). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis factors predicating poor prognosis were: SVEGF-C level (P = 0.001), VEGF-C expression and LVD (both P = 0.000).
CONCLUSION: SVEGF-C level, VEGF-C and LVD are related to LNM and poor prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. SVEGF-C may be a biomarker for LNM in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Bao Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
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Goldman J, Rutkowski JM, Shields JD, Pasquier MC, Cui Y, Schmökel HG, Willey S, Hicklin DJ, Pytowski B, Swartz MA. Cooperative and redundant roles of VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3 signaling in adult lymphangiogenesis. FASEB J 2007; 21:1003-12. [PMID: 17210781 DOI: 10.1096/fj.06-6656com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Activation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) by VEGF-C initiates lymphangiogenesis by promoting lymphatic proliferation and migration. However, it is unclear whether VEGFR-3 signaling is required beyond these initial stages, namely during the organization of new lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) into functional capillaries. Furthermore, the role of VEGFR-2, which is also expressed on LECs and binds VEGF-C, is unclear. We addressed these questions by selectively neutralizing VEGFR-3 and/or VEGFR-2 for various time periods in an adult model of lymphangiogenesis in regenerating skin. While blocking either VEGFR-2 or VEGFR-3 with specific antagonist mAbs (DC101 and mF4-31C1, respectively) prior to lymphatic migration prevented lymphangiogenesis, blocking VEGFR-3 subsequent to migration did not affect organization into functional capillaries, and VEGFR-2 blocking had only a small hindrance on organization. These findings were confirmed in vitro using human LECs and anti-human antagonist mAbs (IMC-1121a and hF4-3C5): both VEGFR-2 and -3 signaling were required for migration and proliferation, but tubulogenesis in 3D cultures was unaffected by VEGFR-3 blocking and partially hindered by VEGFR-2 blocking. Furthermore, both in vitro and in vivo, while VEGFR-3 blocking had no effect on LEC organization, coneutralization of VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3 completely prevented lymphatic organization. Our findings demonstrate that cooperative signaling of VEGFR-2 and -3 is necessary for lymphatic migration and proliferation, but VEGFR-3 is redundant with VEGFR-2 for LEC organization into functional capillaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Goldman
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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Maruyama K, Ii M, Cursiefen C, Jackson DG, Keino H, Tomita M, Van Rooijen N, Takenaka H, D'Amore PA, Stein-Streilein J, Losordo DW, Streilein JW. Inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis in the cornea arises from CD11b-positive macrophages. J Clin Invest 2005; 115:2363-72. [PMID: 16138190 PMCID: PMC1193872 DOI: 10.1172/jci23874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 524] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2004] [Accepted: 06/07/2005] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the inflamed cornea, there is a parallel outgrowth of blood and lymphatic vessels into the normally avascular cornea. We tested whether adaptive and/or innate immune cells were actively involved in the genesis of new lymphatic vessels. Our results indicate that innate immune cells (CD11b+ macrophages, but not CD11c+ dendritic cells) physically contributed to lymphangiogenesis under pathological conditions and that bone marrow-derived CD11b+ macrophages expressed lymphatic endothelial markers such as LYVE-1 and Prox-1 under inflamed conditions in the corneal stromata of mice. Furthermore, blood vascular endothelial cells that expressed the Tie2 promoter did not contribute to newly formed lymphatic vessels under inflamed conditions. Our in vitro experiments demonstrated that CD11b+ macrophages alone were capable of forming tube-like structures that expressed markers of lymphatic endothelium such as LYVE-1 and podoplanin. The novel finding that CD11b+ macrophages are critical for the development of inflammation-dependent lymphangiogenesis in the eye suggests a new mechanism of lymphangiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuichi Maruyama
- Ocular Immunology Group, The Schepens Eye Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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Gan L, Fagerholm P, Palmblad J. Expression of basic fibroblast growth factor in rabbit corneal alkali wounds in the presence and absence of granulocytes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 83:374-8. [PMID: 15948794 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0420.2005.00439.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the early phases of corneal wound healing in the presence or absence of granulocytes. METHODS A central penetrating corneal alkali wound was inflicted to one eye in each of 14 rabbits under general anaesthesia. Subsequently, seven of the rabbits were given fucoidin i.v. for 36 hours in order to block the selectins on the vascular endothelium, thus preventing blood granulocytes from entering the tissues. Then, corneas were prepared, stained for bFGF and evaluated by light microscopy. RESULTS Whereas normal corneal epithelium expressed bFGF weakly, conjunctival epithelium did so strongly, particularly the goblet cells. The corneal endothelium showed medium staining, while keratocytes and vascular endothelial cells did not consistently express bFGF. After 36 hours of wound healing, a marked up-regulation of bFGF expression was observed in the corneal epithelial and endothelial cells, as well as in the keratocytes, that were migrating into the wound. No other changes were noted. None of these features were modulated when granulocyte emigration was prevented by fucoidin administration. CONCLUSIONS The difference in bFGF expression between the corneal and conjunctival epithelium suggests a role for this growth factor in the barrier function at the limbus. Moreover, the specific presence of bFGF in cells migrating into the wound indicates the participation of bFGF in corneal wound healing. Expression of bFGF was independent of granulocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisha Gan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
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Hamrah P, Chen L, Cursiefen C, Zhang Q, Joyce NC, Dana MR. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) on monocytic bone marrow-derived cells in the conjunctiva. Exp Eye Res 2004; 79:553-61. [PMID: 15381039 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2004.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2003] [Accepted: 06/29/2004] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-3 (VEGFR-3), also known as Fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor 4 (FLT-4), was thought to be expressed exclusively on the lymphatic endothelium, high endothelial venules, and rarely on vascular endothelium. It plays a critical role in the development of lymphatics and cancer metastasis. Very recently, however, VEGFR-3 expression has been identified on dendritic cells (DCs) in the inflamed cornea, and related to the trafficking of these cells to lymphoid organs. The current study was performed to evaluate the expression of VEGFR-3 in the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva and limbus of normal and inflamed murine eyes were excised and stained for VEGFR-3. Immunofluorescence double staining for CD11b, CD11c, CD31, CD45, GR-1, CD3, CD80, LYVE-1 and class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen expression, using confocal microscopy, was performed to further phenotype the VEGFR-3+ cells. VEGFR-3 and LYVE-1 expression was observed on lymphatic, but not blood vessel, endothelium. In addition, we also detected expression of VEGFR-3 on non-endothelial CD45+ bone marrow-derived cells in the conjunctiva of normal and, in an increased number, in inflamed eyes. These cells were uniformly CD11b+, CD3-, and Gr-1-, suggesting a monocytic origin, similar to the VEGFR-3+ cells in the cornea. Nearly half of the VEGFR-3+ cells were also positive for MHC class II expression, and none were positive for CD80 (B7-1), indicating their relative immature status. In contrast to the recently described VEGFR3+ corneal cells, however, VEGFR-3+ conjunctival cells did not express the DC marker CD11c. We conclude that in addition to its known role in lymphangiogenesis, VEGFR-3 is also expressed by a conjunctival monocyte/macrophage lineage, implicating a potential relationship between lymphangiogenesis and leukocyte trafficking in the ocular surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Hamrah
- Laboratory of Immunology, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Nanbu PN, Wakabayashi T, Yamashita R, Hayashi H, Hisano S, Oshika T. Heat Treatment Enhances Healing Process of Experimental Pseudomonas Corneal Ulcer. Ophthalmic Res 2004; 36:218-25. [PMID: 15292660 DOI: 10.1159/000078780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2003] [Accepted: 03/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of hyperthermia on the healing process of experimental Pseudomonas corneal ulceration (PCU). Hartley guinea pigs were used to develop animal models of PCU. As a heat source, disposable chemical pocket warmers were applied. The healing process of PCU was compared between the heat-treated corneas and the control corneas. The severity of infection and the degree of angiogenesis were classified by a clinical scoring system. The animals were euthanized 14 days after infection and the corneas were submitted for histopathological examination. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was examined immunohistochemically. Comparative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the expression level of VEGF in the cornea. Hyperthermia significantly promoted corneal epithelization and neovascularization in the PCU model. Heat treatment significantly decreased the number of viable Pseudomonas organisms present in PCU. On immunohistochemistry, the heated cornea demonstrated more intense staining for VEGF. Comparative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction showed upregulation of the expression level of VEGF mRNA in the heat-treated cornea. Hyperthermia accelerated the healing process of PCU with increased corneal neovascularization. Angiogenesis may play an important role in the PCU healing process, which is enhanced by the heat treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Naomi Nanbu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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Hamrah P, Chen L, Zhang Q, Dana MR. Novel expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-3 and VEGF-C on corneal dendritic cells. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2003; 163:57-68. [PMID: 12819011 PMCID: PMC1868166 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9440(10)63630-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-3 (VEGFR-3) plays a critical role in embryonic cardiovascular development and is thought to be expressed exclusively on the lymphatic endothelium, high endothelial venules, and rarely on adult vascular endothelium. Recent evidence also suggests expression of VEGFR-3 on some tumor-associated macrophages. We have studied the expression of VEGFR-3, its ligand VEGF-C and the co-receptor neuropilin-2, in normal and inflamed corneas and characterized the phenotype and distribution of VEGFR-3(+) cells. Our data demonstrate, for the first time, the expression of VEGFR-3 on corneal dendritic cells (DC) and its up-regulation in inflammation. VEGFR-3(+) DC are CD11c(+)CD45(+)CD11b(+), and are mostly major histocompatibility (MHC) class II(-)CD80(-)CD86(-), indicating immature DC of a monocytic lineage. During inflammation, there is rapid increase in the number of VEGFR-3(+) DC in the cornea associated with heightened membranous expression as compared to a mostly intracellular expression in uninflamed tissue. VEGFR-3(+) DC in normal corneas are VEGF-C(-)neuropilin-2(-), but express VEGF-C in inflammation. Interestingly, similar cells are absent both in the normal and inflamed skin. These data demonstrate, for the first time, the expression of VEGFR-3 and VEGF-C on tissue DC, which implicate a novel potential relationship between lymphangiogenesis and leukocyte trafficking in the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Hamrah
- Laboratory of Immunology, Schepens Eye Research Institute and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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42
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Hamrah P, Zhang Q, Dana MR. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) in the conjunctiva--a potential link between lymphangiogenesis and leukocyte trafficking on the ocular surface. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2003; 506:851-60. [PMID: 12614002 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-0717-8_120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Hamrah
- Laboratory of Immunology, Schepens Eye Research Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology Harvard Medical School Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Cursiefen C, Chen L, Dana MR, Streilein JW. Corneal lymphangiogenesis: evidence, mechanisms, and implications for corneal transplant immunology. Cornea 2003; 22:273-81. [PMID: 12658100 DOI: 10.1097/00003226-200304000-00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The normal cornea is devoid of blood and lymphatic vessels but can become vascularized secondary to a variety of corneal diseases and surgical manipulations. Whereas corneal (hem)angiogenesis, i.e., the outgrowth of new blood vessels from preexisting limbal vessels, is obvious both clinically and histologically, proof of associated corneal lymphangiogenesis has long been hampered by invisibility and lack of specific markers. This has changed with the recent discovery of the lymphatic endothelial markers vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3, LYVE-1 (a lymphatic endothelium-specific hyaluronan receptor), Prox 1, and Podoplanin. METHODS We herein summarize the current evidence for lymphangiogenesis in the cornea and describe its molecular markers and mediators. Furthermore, the pathophysiologic implications of corneal lymphangiogenesis for corneal transplant immunology are discussed. RESULTS Whereas corneal angiogenesis in vascularized high-risk beds provides a route of entry for immune effector cells to the graft, lymphangiogenesis enables the exit of antigen-presenting cells and antigenic material from the graft to regional lymph nodes, thus inducing alloimmunization and subsequent graft rejection. CONCLUSIONS Antilymphangiogenic strategies may improve transplant survival both in the high- and low-risk setting of corneal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus Cursiefen
- The Schepens Eye Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.
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Geleff S, Schoppmann SF, Oberhuber G. Increase in podoplanin-expressing intestinal lymphatic vessels in inflammatory bowel disease. Virchows Arch 2003; 442:231-7. [PMID: 12647212 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-002-0744-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2002] [Accepted: 10/30/2002] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two presentations of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Whereas the inflammation in UC is confined to the mucosa/submucosa, CD is considered a transmural disease with characteristic lymphoid aggregates with or without epithelioid granulomas in the subserosa. Here we examined and quantified the distribution of lymphatic capillaries in small- and large-bowel resection specimens (non-IBD n=8; CD n=20 and UC n=13) using immunohistochemical staining with anti-human podoplanin antibody, an established marker for lymphatic endothelium. In normal small intestine, the lymphatic network originated in the capillaries beneath the surface epithelial cells, whereas it started in the lower third of the mucosa of the large intestine. Lymphatic microvessel counts revealed a statistically highly significant increase ( P<0.005 in the muscularis mucosae, P=0.012 in the tunica submucosa and P=0.012 in the tunica subserosa) in IBDs when compared with normal intestine. Numerical differences between CD and UC samples were not significant. Prominence of lymphatic capillaries could also be observed in areas where fibrosis replaced chronic inflammation. These findings suggested that lymph-vessel proliferation in IBDs may be triggered by chronic inflammation irrespective of its organization and is maintained in fibrotic end-stage disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Geleff
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090, Vienna, Austria
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Dey S, Anand BS, Patel J, Mitra AK. Transporters/receptors in the anterior chamber: pathways to explore ocular drug delivery strategies. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2003; 3:23-44. [PMID: 12718729 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.3.1.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Membrane transporters/receptors are involved in drug transport processes and play a key role in intestinal absorption, tissue distribution and elimination. Drug targeting to specific transporters and receptors using carrier-mediated absorption has immense clinical significance. Ocular drug delivery is a challenging task since it involves drug transport across various barriers in the eye. Specialised transport processes exist at these barriers, which control the entry of drugs and xenobiotics. Ocular drug therapy involving topical or systemic administration of drugs has various limitations. Transport processes in the eye have been targeted in an effort to increase ocular bioavailability of drugs following topical instillation. This review discusses various transport processes in the eye and drug delivery strategies utilising these transporters/receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surajit Dey
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 5005 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64110-2499, USA
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Kubo H, Cao R, Brakenhielm E, Mäkinen T, Cao Y, Alitalo K. Blockade of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 signaling inhibits fibroblast growth factor-2-induced lymphangiogenesis in mouse cornea. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2002; 99:8868-73. [PMID: 12070340 PMCID: PMC124390 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.062040199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) is a major mediator of lymphangiogenesis. Recently, VEGFR-3 ligands, VEGF-C, and VEGF-D were reported to promote tumor lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis, and these processes were inhibited by blocking of the VEGFR-3-signaling pathway. Here, we have adapted the mouse corneal angiogenesis assay to study potential lymphangiogenic factors and inhibitors. Immunohistochemical analysis with lymphatic endothelial markers showed that VEGF-C induces lymphatic as well as blood vessel growth in the cornea. By contrast, VEGF induced angiogenesis but not lymphangiogenesis. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) stimulated both lymphangiogenesis and angiogenesis. FGF-2 up-regulated VEGF-C expression in vascular endothelial and perivascular cells. Furthermore, administration of blocking anti-VEGFR-3 antibodies inhibited the FGF-2-induced lymphangiogenesis. These findings show that VEGFR-3 can mediate lymphangiogenesis induced by other growth factors. Because increased expression of FGF-2 and VEGF-C has been associated with lymphatic metastasis, our results provide a potential strategy for the inhibition of lymphatic metastasis in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Kubo
- Molecular/Cancer Biology Laboratory and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, POB 63, Haartmaninkatu 8, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
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