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Slawski J, Jaśkiewicz M, Barton A, Kozioł S, Collawn JF, Bartoszewski R. Regulation of the HIF switch in human endothelial and cancer cells. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151386. [PMID: 38262137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are transcription factors that reprogram the transcriptome for cells to survive hypoxic insults and oxidative stress. They are important during embryonic development and reprogram the cells to utilize glycolysis when the oxygen levels are extremely low. This metabolic change facilitates normal cell survival as well as cancer cell survival. The key feature in survival is the transition between acute hypoxia and chronic hypoxia, and this is regulated by the transition between HIF-1 expression and HIF-2/HIF-3 expression. This transition is observed in many human cancers and endothelial cells and referred to as the HIF Switch. Here we discuss the mechanisms involved in the HIF Switch in human endothelial and cancer cells which include mRNA and protein levels of the alpha chains of the HIFs. A major continuing effort in this field is directed towards determining the differences between normal and tumor cell utilization of this important pathway, and how this could lead to potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Slawski
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Jaśkiewicz
- International Research Agenda 3P, Medicine Laboratory, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Barton
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Sylwia Kozioł
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - James F Collawn
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Rafał Bartoszewski
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland.
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Wang C, Li X, Su J, Duan J, Yao Y, Shang Q. Crocetin inhibits choroidal neovascularization in both in vitro and in vivo models. Exp Eye Res 2024; 238:109751. [PMID: 38097101 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the primary pathogenic process underlying wet age-related macular degeneration, leading to severe vision loss. Despite current anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies, several limitations persist. Crocetin, a major bioactive constituent of saffron, exhibits multiple pharmacological activities, yet its role and mechanism in CNV remain unclear. Here, we investigated the potential effects of crocetin on CNV using in vitro and in vivo models. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, crocetin demonstrated inhibition of VEGF-induced cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro, as assessed by CCK-8 and EdU assays, transwell and scratch assays, and tube formation analysis. Additionally, crocetin suppressed choroidal sprouting in ex vivo experiments. In the human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell line ARPE-19, crocetin attenuated cobalt chloride-induced hypoxic cell injury, as evidenced by CCK-8 assay. As evaluated by quantitative PCR and Western blot assay, it also reduced hypoxia-induced expression of VEGF and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), while enhancing zonula occludens-1 expression. In a laser-induced CNV mouse model, intravitreal administration of crocetin significantly reduced CNV size and suppressed elevated expressions of VEGF, HIF-1α, TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6. Moreover, crocetin treatment attenuated the elevation of phospho-S6 in laser-induced CNV and hypoxia-induced RPE cells, suggesting its potential anti-angiogenic effects through antagonizing the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling. Our findings indicate that crocetin may hold promise as an effective drug for the prevention and treatment of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Xuejing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jialiang Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Yimin Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Qingli Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China.
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3
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Nakai A, Lee D, Shoda C, Negishi K, Nakashizuka H, Yamagami S, Kurihara T. Modulation of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expressions by Superfood Camu-Camu ( Myrciaria dubia) Treatment in ARPE-19 and Fetal Human RPE Cells. J Ophthalmol 2023; 2023:6617981. [PMID: 38187496 PMCID: PMC10771337 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6617981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy via intravitreal injection is an effective treatment for patients with abnormal ocular neovascularization, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME). However, prolonged and frequent anti-VEGF treatment is associated with a risk of local and systemic adverse events, including geographic atrophy, cerebrovascular disease, and death. Furthermore, some patients do not adequately respond to anti-VEGF therapy. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a transcription factor that controls the expression of hypoxia-responsive genes involved in angiogenesis, inflammation, and metabolism. The HIF/VEGF pathway plays an important role in neovascularization, and the inhibition of HIF activation could be an effective biomolecular target for neovascular diseases. The demand for disease prevention or treatment using functional foods such as superfoods has increased in recent years. Few reports to date have focused on the antineovascular effects of superfoods in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). In light of the growing demand for functional foods, we aimed to find novel HIF inhibitors from superfoods worked in RPE cells, which could be an adjuvant for anti-VEGF therapy. Methods Seven superfoods were examined to identify novel HIF inhibitor candidates using luciferase assay screening. We used the human RPE cell line ARPE-19 and fetal human RPE (fhRPE) to investigate the biomolecular actions of novel HIF inhibitors using quantitative PCR and western blotting. Results Under CoCl2-induced pseudohypoxic condition and 1% oxygen hypoxic incubation, camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) showed HIF inhibitory effects determined by luciferase assays. Camu-camu downregulated HIF-1α and VEGFA mRNA expressions in a concentration-dependent manner. Camu-camu also inhibited HIF-1α protein expressions, and its inhibitory effect was greater than that of vitamin C, which is present at high levels in camu-camu. Conclusion The camu-camu extract suppressed the activation of HIF and VEGF in RPE cells. This could assist anti-VEGF therapy in patients with abnormal ocular neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaka Nakai
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Deokho Lee
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiho Shoda
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Satoru Yamagami
- Ophthalmology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kurihara
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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4
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Finocchio L, Zeppieri M, Gabai A, Toneatto G, Spadea L, Salati C. Recent Developments in Gene Therapy for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3221. [PMID: 38137442 PMCID: PMC10740940 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123221] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex and multifactorial disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly population. The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has revolutionized the management and prognosis of neovascular AMD (nAMD) and is currently the standard of care for this disease. However, patients are required to receive repeated injections, imposing substantial social and economic burdens. The implementation of gene therapy methods to achieve sustained delivery of various therapeutic proteins holds the promise of a single treatment that could ameliorate the treatment challenges associated with chronic intravitreal therapy, and potentially improve visual outcomes. Several early-phase trials are currently underway, evaluating the safety and efficacy of gene therapy for nAMD; however, areas of controversy persist, including the therapeutic target, route of administration, and potential safety issues. In this review, we assess the evolution of gene therapy for nAMD and summarize several preclinical and early-stage clinical trials, exploring challenges and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Finocchio
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giacomo Toneatto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Tran TT, Eltzschig HK, Yuan X. Therapeutic targeting of hypoxia inducible factor in acute respiratory distress syndrome. J Physiol 2023:10.1113/JP284599. [PMID: 38031820 PMCID: PMC11136894 DOI: 10.1113/jp284599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by bilateral chest infiltration and acute hypoxic respiratory failure. ARDS carries significant morbidity and mortality despite advancements in medical management, calling for the development of novel therapeutic targets. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a heterodimeric protein involved in various essential pathways, including metabolic reprogramming, immune modulation, angiogenesis and cell cycle regulation. HIF is routinely degraded in homeostasis conditions via the prolyl hydroxylase domain/von Hippel-Lindau protein pathway. However, HIF is stabilized in ARDS via various mechanisms (oxygen-dependent and independent) as an endogenous protective pathway and plays multifaceted roles in different cell populations. This review focuses on the functional role of HIF and its target genes during ARDS, as well as how HIF has evolved as a therapeutic target in current medical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thu T Tran
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Holger K Eltzschig
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaoyi Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Niu Y, Xi Y, Jing Y, Zhou Z, Sun X, Zhang G, Yuan T, Chang T, Dou G. Endothelial Notch Signaling Regulates the Function of the Retinal Pigment Epithelial Barrier via EC Angiocrine Signaling. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1979. [PMID: 38001832 PMCID: PMC10669439 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The outer blood-retina barrier (oBRB), comprises tightly connected retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, Bruch's membrane, and choroid blood vessels, and is essential for retinal health and normal visual function. Disruption of the RPE barrier and its dysfunction can lead to retinal disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In the present study, we investigated the essential role of choroid endothelial cells (ECs) in the RPE barrier formation process and its dysfunction. We discovered that ECs promoted RPE barrier formation through angiocrine signaling. Through blocking or activating endothelial Notch signaling and conducting experiments in vitro and in vivo, we confirmed that endothelial Notch signaling regulated the expression of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF) and consequently impacted the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-9 in RPE cells. This modulation influenced the RPE extracellular matrix deposition, tight junctions and RPE barrier function. In in vivo experiments, the intravitreal administration of recombinant HBEGF (r-HBEGF) alleviated the RPE barrier disruption induced by subretinal injection (SI) or laser treatment and also rescued RPE barrier disruption in endothelial Notch-deficient mice. Our results showed that the endothelial Notch signaling drove HBEGF expression through angiocrine signaling and effectively improved RPE barrier function by regulating the MMP-9 expression in RPE cells. It suggests that the modulation of Notch signaling in the choroidal endothelium may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China;
| | - Yixuan Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China;
| | - Yutong Jing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Ziyi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Xiaojia Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Guoheng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tianhao Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Tianfang Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
| | - Guorui Dou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China; (Y.N.); (Y.J.); (Z.Z.); (X.S.); (G.Z.); (T.Y.)
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Cristante E, Liyanage SE, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Bainbridge JWB. Role of HIF1α and HIF2α in Cre Recombinase-Induced Retinal Pigment Epithelium Pathology and Its Secondary Effect on Choroidal Neovascularization. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1694-1705. [PMID: 37330004 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
CreTrp1 mice are widely used for conditional retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) gene function studies. Like other Cre/LoxP models, phenotypes in CreTrp1 mice can be affected by Cre-mediated cellular toxicity, leading to RPE dysfunction, altered morphology and atrophy, activation of innate immunity, and consequent impairment of photoreceptor function. These effects are common among the age-related alterations of RPE that feature in early/intermediate forms of age-related macular degeneration. This article characterizes Cre-mediated pathology in the CreTrp1 line to elucidate the impact of RPE degeneration on both developmental and pathologic choroidal neovascularization. Nonredundant roles of the two major components of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) family of transcription regulators, HIF1α and HIF2α, were identified. Genetic ablation of Hif1a protected against Cre-induced degeneration of RPE and choroid, whereas ablation of Hif2a exacerbated this degeneration. Furthermore, HIF1α deficiency protected CreTrp1 mice against laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, whereas HIF2α deficiency exacerbated the phenotype. Cre-mediated degeneration of the RPE in CreTrp1 mice offers an opportunity to investigate the impact of hypoxia signaling in the context of RPE degeneration. These findings indicate that HIF1α promotes Cre recombinase-mediated RPE degeneration and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, whereas HIF2α is protective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexander J Smith
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - James W B Bainbridge
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology London, United Kingdom; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Zeng J, Wang Y, Zhu M, Wu M, Zhou Y, Wang Q, Xu Y, Lin F, Wang J, Li Y, Liang S, Wang Z, Xie L, Liu X. Neutrophil extracellular traps boost laser-induced mouse choroidal neovascularization through the activation of the choroidal endothelial cell TLR4/HIF-1α pathway. FEBS J 2023; 290:5395-5410. [PMID: 37552110 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16928] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is characterized by the infiltration of immune cells, particularly neutrophils. Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) facilitates the angiogenesis of pulmonary endothelial cells via activating Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). TLR4 promotes the expression of transcription factor hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), which promotes inflammation and angiogenesis via the up-regulation of metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). In the present study, we aimed to identify the formation of NET and its role in CNV. Our results showed that NET levels were increased in a mouse laser-induced CNV model via oxidative stress, whereas the inhibition of NET alleviated CNV. In vitro, NET activated the TLR4/HIF-1α pathway in human choroidal endothelial cells (HCECs). Additionally, NET increased the transcription and expression of MMP-9 and IL-1β in HCECs via activating the TLR4/HIF-1α pathway. Meanwhile, NET promoted the inflammatory response accompanied by the proliferation, migration and tube formation of HCECs in a MMP-9- and IL-1β-dependent manner. In conclusion, NET was up-regulated in CNV and promoted the formation of CNV via activating the TLR4/HIF-1α pathway in choroidal endothelial cells. Our data uncovered the novel role of NET in promoting the formation of CNV. The underlying mechanism of NET could be targeted to delay the process of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zeng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Manhui Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Lixiang Eye Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Yamei Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Qiaoyun Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yiqian Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Yuxuan Li
- Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | | | - Ziyu Wang
- Medical College, Nantong University, China
| | - Laiqing Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Medical College, Nantong University, China
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9
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Zhang R, Wang L, Li Y, Gui C, Pei Y, Zhou G. Roles and mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs in age-related macular degeneration. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22307. [PMID: 38027818 PMCID: PMC10679503 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial progressive fundus disorder that can cause vision impairment and severe central blindness in older adults. Currently, there are no approved prevention or treatment strategies for non-exudative AMD. While targeting VEGF is the main therapeutic approach to delay the degeneration process in exudative AMD, a significant number of patients show insensitivity or ineffectiveness to anti-VEGF therapy. Despite years of research, the exact mechanism underlying drusen formation and macular atrophy in AMD remains unknown. In the pathogenesis of AMD, lncRNAs play crucial roles, as discussed in this paper. This review focuses on the function of dysregulated lncRNAs and the mechanisms by which specific molecules target these lncRNAs in AMD. The analysis reveals that lncRNAs primarily regulate the progression of AMD by mediating apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), dedifferentiation, and oxidative stress in choroidal vascular endothelial cells, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, and photoreceptors. Consequently, the regulation of apoptosis, dedifferentiation, EMT, and other processes by lncRNAs has emerged as a crucial focus in AMD research.These findings contribute to our understanding of the role of lncRNAs in AMD and their potential as valuable biomarkers. Furthermore, they highlight the need for further basic and clinical studies to explore the value of lncRNAs as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030002, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030002, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yuncheng Central Hospital, Yuncheng, Shanxi 044000, China
| | - Chenwei Gui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030002, China
| | - Yajing Pei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030002, China
| | - Guohong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanxi Eye Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030002, China
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10
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Lee S, Park CY. Nitric oxide: an old drug but with new horizons in ophthalmology-a narrative review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2023; 11:352. [PMID: 37675299 PMCID: PMC10477639 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Based on basic knowledge and prior research on nitric oxide (NO), the potential of NO for treating eye diseases is reviewed, and the possibility of NO-based eye drops in clinical practice and the future potential of NO in ophthalmology are discussed. Methods A PubMed search was performed for English-language original reports and reviews using the following key words: nitric oxide, eye, ocular, and drug. Key Content and Findings NO is synthesized in the human body by NO synthase (NOS) from L-arginine or through enzyme-dependent reduction of dietary nitrate. Three types of NOS (eNOS, nNOS, and iNOS) are abundantly expressed in the eye under normal physiologic or pathologic conditions. The biological effect of NO in the eye is dose dependent. Low intraocular NO concentrations, produced by eNOS or nNOS, have various cellular effects, including vasodilation, intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation, and neuroprotection. iNOS induced under pathologic ocular conditions produces high NO concentrations in the local environment and mediates tissue inflammation, ocular cell apoptosis, and neurodegeneration. In particular, increased iNOS has been reported in glaucoma and retinal ischemic or degenerative diseases. NO plays a vital role in ocular injury. NO can facilitate ocular surface wound healing while eradicating pathogens such as bacteria and Acanthamoeba in chemical burns or infectious keratitis. Furthermore, NO has antifibrotic activity via the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway. NO causes smooth muscle relaxation, which can be used to inhibit myopia progression in children. NO can be a stem cell modulator and may help in treating ocular stem cell disorders. Conclusions Because of its diverse biologic effects, NO can be a key player in regulating ocular inflammation in various ocular diseases, aiding ocular surface wound healing, controlling IOP in glaucoma, alleviating retinal disease, and suppressing myopia progression. Although there remain limitations to the effective use of highly unstable state, gaseous NO, the role of NO in the field of ophthalmology can be greatly expanded through the development of novel NO donors and effective delivery platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomin Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dongguk University, Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Choul Yong Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dongguk University, Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
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11
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Casciano F, Zauli E, Busin M, Caruso L, AlMesfer S, Al-Swailem S, Zauli G, Yu AC. State of the Art of Pharmacological Activators of p53 in Ocular Malignancies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3593. [PMID: 37509256 PMCID: PMC10377487 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The pivotal role of p53 in the regulation of a vast array of cellular functions has been the subject of extensive research. The biological activity of p53 is not strictly limited to cell cycle arrest but also includes the regulation of homeostasis, DNA repair, apoptosis, and senescence. Thus, mutations in the p53 gene with loss of function represent one of the major mechanisms for cancer development. As expected, due to its key role, p53 is expressed throughout the human body including the eye. Specifically, altered p53 signaling pathways have been implicated in the development of conjunctival and corneal tumors, retinoblastoma, uveal melanoma, and intraocular melanoma. As non-selective cancer chemotherapies as well as ionizing radiation can be associated with either poor efficacy or dose-limiting toxicities in the eye, reconstitution of the p53 signaling pathway currently represents an attractive target for cancer therapy. The present review discusses the role of p53 in the pathogenesis of these ocular tumors and outlines the various pharmacological activators of p53 that are currently under investigation for the treatment of ocular malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Casciano
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Zauli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Busin
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedali Privati Forlì "Villa Igea", 47122 Forlì, Italy
- Istituto Internazionale per la Ricerca e Formazione in Oftalmologia (IRFO), 47122 Forlì, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Caruso
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Saleh AlMesfer
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh 12329, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar Al-Swailem
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh 12329, Saudi Arabia
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh 12329, Saudi Arabia
| | - Angeli Christy Yu
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedali Privati Forlì "Villa Igea", 47122 Forlì, Italy
- Istituto Internazionale per la Ricerca e Formazione in Oftalmologia (IRFO), 47122 Forlì, Italy
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12
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Wang Y, Sun J, Wu J, Jia H, Feng J, Chen J, Yan Q, Huang P, Wang F, Bo Q, Sun X. Growth of nonexudative macular neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration: an indicator of biological lesion activity. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2048-2054. [PMID: 36434285 PMCID: PMC10333345 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02282-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the growth of nonexudative macular neovascularization (MNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA). METHODS Patients with treatment-naïve nonexudative AMD in one eye and exudative AMD in the fellow eye who underwent SS-OCTA imaging for at least 12 months were retrospectively reviewed. The MNV area measurement was quantified in eyes with treatment-naïve nonexudative MNV using ImageJ for analysing the correlation between MNV growth and the onset of exudation, as well as evaluating the consistency of the MNV growth rate during the subclinical and exudative stages. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and logistic regression analyses were used. RESULTS In total, 45 eyes with treatment-naïve nonexudative AMD from 45 patients were enrolled. Treatment-naïve nonexudative MNV was identified in 21 eyes (46.67%) at baseline. The development of exudative findings was noted in eight eyes (17.78%), including six eyes with previously noted nonexudative MNV. Eyes with growing MNV (increase in area ≥50% within 12 months) had an increased risk of exudation and developed exudation earlier than eyes with stable MNV (13.60 [6.43-20.77] months versus 31.11 [26.61-35.62] months, P < 0.0001, Log-rank test). Consistent growth pattern of MNV lesions was further identified in eyes with growing MNV during anti-VEGF treatment. CONCLUSION SS-OCTA allows to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate nonexudative MNV in AMD patients. Growing MNV involved higher probabilities and a faster onset of exudation compared to stable MNV. Identifying the growth of MNV on OCTA might be helpful for establishing treatment strategies and follow-up planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusong Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junran Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huixun Jia
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyang Feng
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Quan Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peirong Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenghua Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiyu Bo
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.
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13
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Nita M, Grzybowski A. Antioxidative Role of Heterophagy, Autophagy, and Mitophagy in the Retina and Their Association with the Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Etiopathogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1368. [PMID: 37507908 PMCID: PMC10376332 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an oxidative stress-linked neurodegenerative disease, leads to irreversible damage of the central retina and severe visual impairment. Advanced age and the long-standing influence of oxidative stress and oxidative cellular damage play crucial roles in AMD etiopathogenesis. Many authors emphasize the role of heterophagy, autophagy, and mitophagy in maintaining homeostasis in the retina. Relevantly modifying the activity of both macroautophagy and mitophagy pathways represents one of the new therapeutic strategies in AMD. Our review provides an overview of the antioxidative roles of heterophagy, autophagy, and mitophagy and presents associations between dysregulations of these molecular mechanisms and AMD etiopathogenesis. The authors performed an extensive analysis of the literature, employing PubMed and Google Scholar, complying with the 2013-2023 period, and using the following keywords: age-related macular degeneration, RPE cells, reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, heterophagy, autophagy, and mitophagy. Heterophagy, autophagy, and mitophagy play antioxidative roles in the retina; however, they become sluggish and dysregulated with age and contribute to AMD development and progression. In the retina, antioxidative roles also play in RPE cells, NFE2L2 and PGC-1α proteins, NFE2L2/PGC-1α/ARE signaling cascade, Nrf2 factor, p62/SQSTM1/Keap1-Nrf2/ARE pathway, circulating miRNAs, and Yttrium oxide nanoparticles performed experimentally in animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Nita
- Domestic and Specialized Medicine Centre "Dilmed", 40-231 Katowice, Poland
| | - Andrzej Grzybowski
- Institute for Research in Ophthalmology, Foundation for Ophthalmology Development, Gorczyczewskiego 2/3, 61-553 Poznań, Poland
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14
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Markitantova Y, Simirskii V. Endogenous and Exogenous Regulation of Redox Homeostasis in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells: An Updated Antioxidant Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10776. [PMID: 37445953 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) performs a range of necessary functions within the neural layers of the retina and helps ensure vision. The regulation of pro-oxidative and antioxidant processes is the basis for maintaining RPE homeostasis and preventing retinal degenerative processes. Long-term stable changes in the redox balance under the influence of endogenous or exogenous factors can lead to oxidative stress (OS) and the development of a number of retinal pathologies associated with RPE dysfunction, and can eventually lead to vision loss. Reparative autophagy, ubiquitin-proteasome utilization, the repair of damaged proteins, and the maintenance of their conformational structure are important interrelated mechanisms of the endogenous defense system that protects against oxidative damage. Antioxidant protection of RPE cells is realized as a result of the activity of specific transcription factors, a large group of enzymes, chaperone proteins, etc., which form many signaling pathways in the RPE and the retina. Here, we discuss the role of the key components of the antioxidant defense system (ADS) in the cellular response of the RPE against OS. Understanding the role and interactions of OS mediators and the components of the ADS contributes to the formation of ideas about the subtle mechanisms in the regulation of RPE cellular functions and prospects for experimental approaches to restore RPE functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliya Markitantova
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir Simirskii
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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15
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Braunger BM, Gießl A, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U. The Blood-ocular Barriers and their Dysfunction: Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2023; 240:650-661. [PMID: 37207638 DOI: 10.1055/a-2063-8957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Complex barriers comprise the blood-aqueous (BAB) and the blood-retinal barrier (BRB), and separate anterior and posterior eye chambers, vitreous body, and sensory retina from the circulation. They prevent pathogens and toxins from entering the eye, control movement of fluid, proteins, and metabolites, and contribute to the maintenance of the ocular immune status. Morphological correlates of blood-ocular barriers are tight junctions between neighboring endothelial and epithelial cells, which function as gatekeepers of the paracellular transport of molecules, thereby limiting their uncontrolled access to ocular chambers and tissues. The BAB is composed of tight junctions between endothelial cells of the iris vasculature, endothelial cells of Schlemm's canal inner wall, and cells of the nonpigmented ciliary epithelium. The BRB consists of tight junctions between endothelial cells of the retinal vessels (inner BRB) and epithelial cells of the retinal pigment epithelium (outer BRB). These junctional complexes respond rapidly to pathophysiological changes, thus enabling vascular leakage of blood-derived molecules and inflammatory cells into ocular tissues and chambers. Blood-ocular barrier function, which can be clinically measured by laser flare photometry or fluorophotometry, is compromised in traumatic, inflammatory, or infectious processes, but also frequently contributes to the pathophysiology of chronic diseases of the anterior eye segment and the retina, as exemplified by diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara M Braunger
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Deutschland
| | - Andreas Gießl
- Augenklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Medizinische Fakultät, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Augenklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Medizinische Fakultät, Erlangen, Deutschland
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16
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Todorova V, Stauffacher MF, Ravotto L, Nötzli S, Karademir D, Ebner LJA, Imsand C, Merolla L, Hauck SM, Samardzija M, Saab AS, Barros LF, Weber B, Grimm C. Deficits in mitochondrial TCA cycle and OXPHOS precede rod photoreceptor degeneration during chronic HIF activation. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:15. [PMID: 36882871 PMCID: PMC9990367 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment, are associated with a local decrease in oxygen availability causing the formation of hypoxic areas affecting the photoreceptor (PR) cells. Here, we addressed the underlying pathological mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on energy metabolism during chronic activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) in rod PR. METHODS We used two-photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM) of genetically encoded biosensors delivered by adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to determine lactate and glucose dynamics in PR and inner retinal cells. Retinal layer-specific proteomics, in situ enzymatic assays and immunofluorescence studies were used to analyse mitochondrial metabolism in rod PRs during chronic HIF activation. RESULTS PRs exhibited remarkably higher glycolytic flux through the hexokinases than neurons of the inner retina. Chronic HIF activation in rods did not cause overt change in glucose dynamics but an increase in lactate production nonetheless. Furthermore, dysregulation of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway (OXPHOS) and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in rods with an activated hypoxic response decelerated cellular anabolism causing shortening of rod photoreceptor outer segments (OS) before onset of cell degeneration. Interestingly, rods with deficient OXPHOS but an intact TCA cycle did not exhibit these early signs of anabolic dysregulation and showed a slower course of degeneration. CONCLUSION Together, these data indicate an exceeding high glycolytic flux in rods and highlight the importance of mitochondrial metabolism and especially of the TCA cycle for PR survival in conditions of increased HIF activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vyara Todorova
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Mia Fee Stauffacher
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Luca Ravotto
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Nötzli
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Duygu Karademir
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Lynn J A Ebner
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Imsand
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Luca Merolla
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764, Munich, Germany
| | - Marijana Samardzija
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L Felipe Barros
- Centro de Estudios Científicos (CECs), Valdivia, Chile.,Universidad San Sebastián, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Grimm
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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17
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Song MJ, Quinn R, Nguyen E, Hampton C, Sharma R, Park TS, Koster C, Voss T, Tristan C, Weber C, Singh A, Dejene R, Bose D, Chen YC, Derr P, Derr K, Michael S, Barone F, Chen G, Boehm M, Maminishkis A, Singec I, Ferrer M, Bharti K. Bioprinted 3D outer retina barrier uncovers RPE-dependent choroidal phenotype in advanced macular degeneration. Nat Methods 2023; 20:149-161. [PMID: 36550275 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-022-01701-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness, initiates in the outer-blood-retina-barrier (oBRB) formed by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), Bruch's membrane, and choriocapillaris. The mechanisms of AMD initiation and progression remain poorly understood owing to the lack of physiologically relevant human oBRB models. To this end, we engineered a native-like three-dimensional (3D) oBRB tissue (3D-oBRB) by bioprinting endothelial cells, pericytes, and fibroblasts on the basal side of a biodegradable scaffold and establishing an RPE monolayer on top. In this 3D-oBRB model, a fully-polarized RPE monolayer provides barrier resistance, induces choriocapillaris fenestration, and supports the formation of Bruch's-membrane-like structure by inducing changes in gene expression in cells of the choroid. Complement activation in the 3D-oBRB triggers dry AMD phenotypes (including subRPE lipid-rich deposits called drusen and choriocapillaris degeneration), and HIF-α stabilization or STAT3 overactivation induce choriocapillaris neovascularization and type-I wet AMD phenotype. The 3D-oBRB provides a physiologically relevant model to studying RPE-choriocapillaris interactions under healthy and diseased conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jae Song
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Russ Quinn
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Eric Nguyen
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | | | - Ruchi Sharma
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Tea Soon Park
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Céline Koster
- Department of Human Genetics Amsterdam, Section of Ophthalmogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (AUMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ty Voss
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Carlos Tristan
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Claire Weber
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Anju Singh
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Roba Dejene
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Devika Bose
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Yu-Chi Chen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Paige Derr
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Kristy Derr
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Sam Michael
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Francesca Barone
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Guibin Chen
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Manfred Boehm
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Ilyas Singec
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Marc Ferrer
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA.
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA.
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18
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Dissecting Regulators of Aging and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6009787. [PMID: 36439688 PMCID: PMC9683958 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6009787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in elderly populations, involves the loss of central vision due to progressive dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and subsequent loss of light-sensing photoreceptors. While age is a key risk factor, not every aged individual develops AMD. Thus, the critical question is what specific cellular changes tip the balance from healthy aging to disease. To distinguish between changes associated with aging and AMD, we compared the RPE proteome in human eye bank tissue from nondiseased donors during aging (n = 50, 29-91 years) and in donors with AMD (n = 36) compared to age-matched donors without disease (n = 28). Proteins from RPE cells were separated on two-dimensional gels, analyzed for content, and identified using mass spectrometry. A total of 58 proteins displayed significantly altered content with either aging or AMD. Proteins involved in metabolism, protein turnover, stress response, and cell death were altered with both aging and AMD. However, the direction of change was predominantly opposite. With aging, we detected an overall decrease in metabolism and reductions in stress-associated proteins, proteases, and chaperones. With AMD, we observed upregulation of metabolic proteins involved in glycolysis, TCA, and fatty acid metabolism, with a concurrent decline in oxidative phosphorylation, suggesting a reprogramming of energy utilization. Additionally, we detected upregulation of proteins involved in the stress response and protein turnover. Predicted upstream regulators also showed divergent results, with inhibition of inflammation and immune response with aging and activation of these processes with AMD. Our results support the idea that AMD is not simply advanced aging but rather the culmination of perturbed protein homeostasis, defective bioenergetics, and increased oxidative stress within the aging RPE, exacerbated by environmental factors and the genetic background of an individual.
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19
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Harju N. Regulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100 Suppl 273:3-59. [DOI: 10.1111/aos.15275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Niina Harju
- School of Pharmacy University of Eastern Finland Kuopio Finland
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20
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Heloterä H, Kaarniranta K. A Linkage between Angiogenesis and Inflammation in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2022; 11:cells11213453. [PMID: 36359849 PMCID: PMC9654543 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment in the aging population with a limited understanding of its pathogenesis and the number of patients are all the time increasing. AMD is classified into two main forms: dry and neovascular AMD (nAMD). Dry AMD is the most prevalent form (80–90%) of AMD cases. Neovascular AMD (10–20% of AMD cases) is treated with monthly or more sparsely given intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, but unfortunately, not all patients respond to the current treatments. A clinical hallmark of nAMD is choroidal neovascularization. The progression of AMD is initially characterized by atrophic alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium, as well as the formation of lysosomal lipofuscin and extracellular drusen deposits. Cellular damage caused by chronic oxidative stress, protein aggregation and inflammatory processes may lead to advanced geographic atrophy and/or choroidal neovascularization and fibrosis. Currently, it is not fully known why different AMD phenotypes develop. In this review, we connect angiogenesis and inflammatory regulators in the development of nAMD and discuss therapy challenges and hopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Heloterä
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Correspondence:
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
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21
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Dimerization of the C-type lectin-like receptor CD93 promotes its binding to Multimerin-2 in endothelial cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 224:453-464. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.10.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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22
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Hachana S, Larrivée B. TGF-β Superfamily Signaling in the Eye: Implications for Ocular Pathologies. Cells 2022; 11:2336. [PMID: 35954181 PMCID: PMC9367584 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β signaling pathway plays a crucial role in several key aspects of development and tissue homeostasis. TGF-β ligands and their mediators have been shown to be important regulators of ocular physiology and their dysregulation has been described in several eye pathologies. TGF-β signaling participates in regulating several key developmental processes in the eye, including angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Inadequate TGF-β signaling has been associated with defective angiogenesis, vascular barrier function, unfavorable inflammatory responses, and tissue fibrosis. In addition, experimental models of corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, glaucoma, or corneal injury suggest that aberrant TGF-β signaling may contribute to the pathological features of these conditions, showing the potential of modulating TGF-β signaling to treat eye diseases. This review highlights the key roles of TGF-β family members in ocular physiology and in eye diseases, and reviews approaches targeting the TGF-β signaling as potential treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Hachana
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
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23
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Hypoxia-Inducible Factors and Burn-Associated Acute Kidney Injury-A New Paradigm? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052470. [PMID: 35269613 PMCID: PMC8910144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
O2 deprivation induces stress in living cells linked to free-radical accumulation and oxidative stress (OS) development. Hypoxia is established when the overall oxygen pressure is less than 40 mmHg in cells or tissues. However, tissues and cells have different degrees of hypoxia. Hypoxia or low O2 tension may be present in both physiological (during embryonic development) and pathological circumstances (ischemia, wound healing, and cancer). Meanwhile, the kidneys are major energy-consuming organs, being second only to the heart, with an increased mitochondrial content and O2 consumption. Furthermore, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are the key players that orchestrate the mammalian response to hypoxia. HIFs adapt cells to low oxygen concentrations by regulating transcriptional programs involved in erythropoiesis, angiogenesis, and metabolism. On the other hand, one of the life-threatening complications of severe burns is acute kidney injury (AKI). The dreaded functional consequence of AKI is an acute decline in renal function. Taking all these aspects into consideration, the aim of this review is to describe the role and underline the importance of HIFs in the development of AKI in patients with severe burns, because kidney hypoxia is constant in the presence of severe burns, and HIFs are major players in the adaptative response of all tissues to hypoxia.
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Brinks J, van Dijk EHC, Kiełbasa SM, Mei H, van der Veen I, Peters HAB, Sips HCM, Notenboom RGE, Quax PHA, Boon CJF, Meijer OC. The Cortisol Response of Male and Female Choroidal Endothelial Cells: Implications for Central Serous Chorioretinopathy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:512-524. [PMID: 34546342 PMCID: PMC8764349 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a severe ocular disease characterized by fluid accumulation under the retina and abnormalities in the underlying vascular layer, the choroid. CSC has a striking prevalence in males of 80% to 90% of total patients. Corticosteroids are the most pronounced extrinsic risk factor for CSC. Choroidal endothelial cells (CECs) are important for the vascular integrity of the choroid, but the effects of corticosteroid effects in these cells are unknown. OBJECTIVE We aimed to reveal the potential steroidal contribution to CSC. METHOD We characterized the expression of the glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid, and androgen receptor in the human choroid using immunohistochemistry. Using RNA-sequencing, we describe the cortisol response in human CECs derived from 5 male and 5 female postmortem donors. RESULTS The glucocorticoid receptor was highly expressed in the human choroid, whereas no to minimal expression of the mineralocorticoid and androgen receptors was observed. The extensive transcriptional response to cortisol in human primary cultured CECs showed interindividual differences but very few sex differences. Several highly regulated genes such as ZBTB16 (log2 fold change males 7.9; females 6.2) provide strong links to choroidal vascular regulation. CONCLUSIONS The glucocorticoid receptor predominantly mediates the response to cortisol in human CECs. Interindividual differences are an important determinant regarding the cortisol response in human cultured CECs, whereas intrinsic sex differences appear less pronounced. The marked response of particular target genes in endothelial cells to cortisol, such as ZBTB16, warrants further investigation into their potential role in the pathophysiology of CSC and other vascular conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost Brinks
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Elon H C van Dijk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Szymon M Kiełbasa
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Isa van der Veen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Zuidoost, the Netherlands
| | - Hendrika A B Peters
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hetty C M Sips
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Robbert G E Notenboom
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Paul H A Quax
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Camiel J F Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Zuidoost, the Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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de Almeida Torres R, de Almeida Torres R, Luchini A, Anjos Ferreira A. The oxidative and inflammatory nature of age-related macular degeneration. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL OPHTHALMOLOGY AND RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/jcor.jcor_268_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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26
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Lv D, Chen D, Wang Z, Cui Z, Ma JH, Ji S, Chen J, Tang S. COL10A1 is a novel factor in the development of choroidal neovascularization. Microvasc Res 2022; 139:104239. [PMID: 34520774 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2021.104239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
With the dramatic rise in the aging population, researching age-related macular degeneration (AMD), especially the severe form neovascular AMD (nAMD), has become more important than ever. In this study, we found that collagen type X was increased in retina-choroid tissue of mice with laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) based on immunohistofluorescence. RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses were performed to compare the retina-choroid tissue complex of the CNV mouse model to normal controls. Collagen type X alpha 1 chain (Col10a1) was among the most significantly upregulated genes, and the results were validated with an animal model at the mRNA and protein levels by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting, respectively. COL10A1 was also upregulated in human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), RPE19 cells and RF/6A cells under hypoxic conditions. Next, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to study the effect of COL10A1 on neovascularization. siRNA knockdown of COL10A1 suppressed the proliferation and tube formation ability of HRMECs under hypoxic conditions. Snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAIL1) and angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2) were downregulated in COL10A1 knockdown HRMECs under hypoxic conditions and thus were potential downstream genes. Significant decreases in CNV leakage and CNV lesion area, as assessed by fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and immunofluorescence of choroidal flat mounts, respectively, were observed in a mouse model intravitreally injected with anti-collagen X monoclonal antibody (mAb) compared to the controls. In conclusion, COL10A1 promotes CNV formation and may represent a new candidate target for the treatment and diagnosis of nAMD and other neovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Lv
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Zhijie Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Jacey Hongjie Ma
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Ophthalmology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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Plastino F, Pesce NA, André H. MicroRNAs and the HIF/VEGF axis in ocular neovascular diseases. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:e1255-e1262. [PMID: 33729690 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ocular neovascular diseases, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity and neovascular age-related macular degeneration, are the leading causes of visual impairment worldwide. The hypoxia-inducible factors and vascular endothelial growth factors are key molecular promoters of ocular neovascularization. Moreover, the role of microRNAs as regulators of angiogenesis has been expanding, particularly hypoxia-associated microRNA; hypoxamiRs. This review provides a summary of hypoxamiRs that directly and specifically target HIF1A and VEGF mRNAs, thus critically involved in the regulation of ocular neovascular pathologies. The discussed microRNAs highlight putative diagnostic markers and therapeutic agents in choroidal and retinal angiogenic diseases, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity and neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Plastino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences Division of Eye and Vision St. Erik Eye Hospital Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Noemi Anna Pesce
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences Division of Eye and Vision St. Erik Eye Hospital Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences Division of Eye and Vision St. Erik Eye Hospital Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
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28
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Torres RJDA, Ferreira ALDA. Age-related macular degeneration: an overview. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE OFTALMOLOGIA 2021. [DOI: 10.37039/1982.8551.20210038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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29
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Schlecht A, Vallon M, Wagner N, Ergün S, Braunger BM. TGFβ-Neurotrophin Interactions in Heart, Retina, and Brain. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11091360. [PMID: 34572573 PMCID: PMC8464756 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic insults to the heart and brain, i.e., myocardial and cerebral infarction, respectively, are amongst the leading causes of death worldwide. While there are therapeutic options to allow reperfusion of ischemic myocardial and brain tissue by reopening obstructed vessels, mitigating primary tissue damage, post-infarction inflammation and tissue remodeling can lead to secondary tissue damage. Similarly, ischemia in retinal tissue is the driving force in the progression of neovascular eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which eventually lead to functional blindness, if left untreated. Intriguingly, the easily observable retinal blood vessels can be used as a window to the heart and brain to allow judgement of microvascular damages in diseases such as diabetes or hypertension. The complex neuronal and endocrine interactions between heart, retina and brain have also been appreciated in myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and retinal diseases. To describe the intimate relationship between the individual tissues, we use the terms heart-brain and brain-retina axis in this review and focus on the role of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and neurotrophins in regulation of these axes under physiologic and pathologic conditions. Moreover, we particularly discuss their roles in inflammation and repair following ischemic/neovascular insults. As there is evidence that TGFβ signaling has the potential to regulate expression of neurotrophins, it is tempting to speculate, and is discussed here, that cross-talk between TGFβ and neurotrophin signaling protects cells from harmful and/or damaging events in the heart, retina, and brain.
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Gu Y, Liu W, Liu G, Li X, Lu P. Assessing the protective effects of cryptotanshinone on CoCl 2‑induced hypoxia in RPE cells. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:739. [PMID: 34435647 PMCID: PMC8404095 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of several retinal diseases is closely related to hypoxia. As a component of the Traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza, the effects of cryptotanshinone (CT) on retinal cells under hypoxic conditions are not well understood. The aim of the present study was to explore how CT exerted its protective effects on retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells under hypoxic conditions induced by cobalt chloride (CoCl2). The effects of CT were investigated using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting in ARPE-19 cells. CT (10 and 20 µM) reduced the CoCl2-induced increase in vascular endothelial growth factor expression and hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1α expression in ARPE-19 cells. Additionally, CT alleviated hypoxia-induced apoptosis by regulating Bcl-2 and Bax protein expression. CT treatment also reduced the increase in the mRNA levels of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α induced by CoCl2. In summary, CT may protect RPE cells against apoptosis and inflammation in CoCl2-induced hypoxia, and these results warrant further in vivo study into its value as a drug for treating hypoxic eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Weiming Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Gaoqin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
| | - Peirong Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, P.R. China
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Potential of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179178. [PMID: 34502084 PMCID: PMC8431062 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment in the aging population with poorly known pathogenesis and lack of effective treatment. Age and family history are the strongest AMD risk factors, and several loci were identified to contribute to AMD. Recently, also the epigenetic profile was associated with AMD, and some long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were shown to involve in AMD pathogenesis. The Vax2os1/2 (ventral anterior homeobox 2 opposite strand isoform 1) lncRNAs may modulate the balance between pro- and anti-angiogenic factors in the eye contributing to wet AMD. The stress-induced dedifferentiation of retinal pigment epithelium cells can be inhibited by the ZNF503-AS1 (zinc finger protein 503 antisense RNA 2) and LINC00167 lncRNAs. Overexpression of the PWRN2 (Prader-Willi region non-protein-coding RNA 2) lncRNA aggravated RPE cells apoptosis and mitochondrial impairment induced by oxidative stress. Several other lncRNAs were reported to exert protective or detrimental effects in AMD. However, many studies are limited to an association between lncRNA and AMD in patients or model systems with bioinformatics. Therefore, further works on lncRNAs in AMD are rational, and they should be enriched with mechanistic and clinical studies to validate conclusions obtained in high-throughput in vitro research.
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Hsu TJ, Nepali K, Tsai CH, Imtiyaz Z, Lin FL, Hsiao G, Lai MJ, Cheng YW. The HDAC/HSP90 Inhibitor G570 Attenuated Blue Light-Induced Cell Migration in RPE Cells and Neovascularization in Mice through Decreased VEGF Production. Molecules 2021; 26:4359. [PMID: 34299636 PMCID: PMC8305912 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs due to an abnormality of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells that leads to gradual degeneration of the macula. Currently, AMD drug pipelines are endowed with limited options, and anti-VEGF agents stand as the dominantly employed therapy. Despite the proven efficacy of such agents, the evidenced side effects associated with their use underscore the need to elucidate other mechanisms involved and identify additional molecular targets for the sake of therapy improvement. The previous literature provided us with a solid rationale to preliminarily explore the potential of selective HDAC6 and HSP90 inhibitors to treat wet AMD. Rather than furnishing single-target agents (either HDAC6 or HSP90 inhibitor), this study recruited scaffolds endowed with the ability to concomitantly modulate both targets (HDAC6 and HSP90) for exploration. This plan was anticipated to accomplish the important goal of extracting amplified benefits via dual inhibition (HDAC6/HSP90) in wet AMD. As a result, G570 (indoline-based hydroxamate), a dual selective HDAC6-HSP90 inhibitor exerting its effects at micromolar concentrations, was pinpointed in the present endeavor to attenuate blue light-induced cell migration and retinal neovascularization by inhibiting VEGF production. In addition to the identification of a potential chemical tool (G570), the outcome of this study validates the candidate HDAC6-HSP90 as a compelling target for the development of futuristic therapeutics for wet AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Ju Hsu
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (T.-J.H.); (K.N.); (C.-H.T.); (Z.I.)
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (T.-J.H.); (K.N.); (C.-H.T.); (Z.I.)
| | - Chi-Hao Tsai
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (T.-J.H.); (K.N.); (C.-H.T.); (Z.I.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zuha Imtiyaz
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (T.-J.H.); (K.N.); (C.-H.T.); (Z.I.)
| | - Fan-Li Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (F.-L.L.); (G.H.)
| | - George Hsiao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (F.-L.L.); (G.H.)
| | - Mei-Jung Lai
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan
- Biomedical Commercialization Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan; (T.-J.H.); (K.N.); (C.-H.T.); (Z.I.)
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 100301, Taiwan
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Blasiak J, Szczepanska J, Fila M, Pawlowska E, Kaarniranta K. Potential of Telomerase in Age-Related Macular Degeneration-Involvement of Senescence, DNA Damage Response and Autophagy and a Key Role of PGC-1α. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137194. [PMID: 34281248 PMCID: PMC8268995 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the main cause of vision loss in the elderly, is associated with oxidation in the retina cells promoting telomere attrition. Activation of telomerase was reported to improve macular functions in AMD patients. The catalytic subunit of human telomerase (hTERT) may directly interact with proteins important for senescence, DNA damage response, and autophagy, which are impaired in AMD. hTERT interaction with mTORC1 (mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) complex 1) and PINK1 (PTEN-induced kinase 1) activates macroautophagy and mitophagy, respectively, and removes cellular debris accumulated over AMD progression. Ectopic expression of telomerase in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells lengthened telomeres, reduced senescence, and extended their lifespan. These effects provide evidence for the potential of telomerase in AMD therapy. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) may be involved in AMD pathogenesis through decreasing oxidative stress and senescence, regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and improving autophagy. PGC-1α and TERT form an inhibitory positive feedback loop. In conclusion, telomerase activation and its ectopic expression in RPE cells, as well as controlled clinical trials on the effects of telomerase activation in AMD patients, are justified and should be assisted by PGC-1α modulators to increase the therapeutic potential of telomerase in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz Blasiak
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.B.); (K.K.)
| | - Joanna Szczepanska
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-216 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Michal Fila
- Department of Developmental Neurology and Epileptology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Elzbieta Pawlowska
- Department of Orthodontics, Medical University of Lodz, 92-217 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
- Correspondence: (J.B.); (K.K.)
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Yuan J, Chen F, Fan D, Jiang Q, Xue Z, Zhang J, Yu X, Li K, Qu J, Su J. EyeDiseases: an integrated resource for dedicating to genetic variants, gene expression and epigenetic factors of human eye diseases. NAR Genom Bioinform 2021; 3:lqab050. [PMID: 34085038 PMCID: PMC8168129 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqab050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Eye diseases are remarkably common and encompass a large and diverse range of morbidities that affect different components of the visual system and visual function. With advances in omics technology of eye disorders, genome-scale datasets have been rapidly accumulated in genetics and epigenetics field. However, the efficient collection and comprehensive analysis of different kinds of omics data are lacking. Herein, we developed EyeDiseases (https://eyediseases.bio-data.cn/), the first database for multi-omics data integration and interpretation of human eyes diseases. It contains 1344 disease-associated genes with genetic variation, 1774 transcription files of bulk cell expression and single-cell RNA-seq, 105 epigenomics data across 185 kinds of human eye diseases. Using EyeDiseases, we investigated SARS-CoV-2 potential tropism in eye infection and found that the SARS-CoV-2 entry factors, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are highly correlated with cornea and keratoconus, suggest that ocular surface cells are susceptible to infection by SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, integrating analysis of Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) GWAS loci and co-expression data revealed 9 associated genes involved in HIF-1 signaling pathway and voltage-gate potassium channel complex. The EyeDiseases provides a valuable resource for accelerating the discovery and validation of candidate loci and genes contributed to the molecular diagnosis and therapeutic vulnerabilities with various eyes diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yuan
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Fukun Chen
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Dandan Fan
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Qi Jiang
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zhengbo Xue
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xiangyi Yu
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Kai Li
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325011, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Qu
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jianzhong Su
- School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
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Yang TJ, Yao MD, Sun YN, Li XM, Jiang Q, Yan B. Suppression of choroidal neovascularization by silencing of long non-coding RNA IPW. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:10584-10602. [PMID: 33833130 PMCID: PMC8064148 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as the key regulators in the pathogenesis of human disorders. This study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA-IPW in the progression of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and the underlying molecular mechanism. IPW was significantly up-regulated in the choroidal tissues of laser-induced CNV mice and in the endothelial cells in response to hypoxic stress. IPW silencing led to reduced formation of CNV in laser-induced CNV model and ex vivo choroidal sprouting model, which could achieve similar therapeutic effects of anti-VEGF on CNV formation. Silencing or transgenic overexpression of IPW could alter endothelial cell viability, proliferation, migration, and tube formation ability in vitro. Mechanistically, IPW silencing led to increased expression of miR-370. Increased miR-370 could mimic the effects of IPW silencing on CNV formation and endothelial angiogenic phenotypes in vivo and in vitro. This study suggests that IPW silencing is a promising strategy for the treatment of neovascular ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Jing Yang
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mu-Di Yao
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ya-Nan Sun
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiu-Miao Li
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Biao Yan
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Echinomycin mitigates ocular angiogenesis by transcriptional inhibition of the hypoxia-inducible factor-1. Exp Eye Res 2021; 206:108518. [PMID: 33639134 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Echinomycin (EKN), an inhibitor of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 DNA-binding activity, has been implied as a possible therapeutic agent in ischemic diseases. Here, we assess EKN in hypoxia-driven responses in vitro using human primary adult retinal pigment epithelium cells (aRPE) and retinal endothelial cells (hREC), and in vivo using the laser-induced mouse choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model. METHODS Effects of EKN on hypoxia-mediated pathways in aRPE were analyzed by Western blotting for HIF-1α protein, quantitative PCR of HIF-target genes, and proteome array for soluble angiogenic factors. In vitro inhibition of angiogenesis by EKN was determined in hREC. In vivo inhibition of angiogenesis by EKN was determined in the mouse laser-induced CNV, as a model of HIF-associated ocular neovascularization. CNV lesion area was determined by fundus fluorescein angiography. RESULTS aRPE treated with EKN showed hypoxia-dependent significantly decreased cell recovery in the wound healing assay. These results were supported by lower levels of HIF-mediated transcripts detected in hypoxic aRPE cells treated with EKN compared with non-treated controls, and confirmed by proteome profiler for angiogenic factors. hREC exposed to aRPE EKN-conditioned medium displayed reduced sprouting angiogenesis. Mice with laser-induced CNV treated with intravitreally injected EKN showed significantly decreased vascular lesion area when compared with a mouse equivalent of aflibercept, or vehicle-treated controls. CONCLUSIONS Our data proposes EKN as a potent inhibitor of HIF-mediated angiogenesis in retinal cells and in the mouse model of CNV, which could have future implications in the treatment of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
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Anomalous Angiogenesis in Retina. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020224. [PMID: 33671578 PMCID: PMC7927046 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may cause severe loss of vision or blindness, particularly in elderly people. Exudative AMD is characterized by the angiogenesis of blood vessels growing from underneath the macula, crossing the blood–retina barrier (which comprises Bruch’s membrane (BM) and the retinal pigmentation epithelium (RPE)), leaking blood and fluid into the retina and knocking off photoreceptors. Here, we simulate a computational model of angiogenesis from the choroid blood vessels via a cellular Potts model, as well as BM, RPE cells, drusen deposits and photoreceptors. Our results indicate that improving AMD may require fixing the impaired lateral adhesion between RPE cells and with BM, as well as diminishing Vessel Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Jagged proteins that affect the Notch signaling pathway. Our numerical simulations suggest that anti-VEGF and anti-Jagged therapies could temporarily halt exudative AMD while addressing impaired cellular adhesion, which could be more effective over a longer time-span.
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Wang S, Liu C, Ouyang W, Liu Y, Li C, Cheng Y, Su Y, Liu C, Yang L, Liu Y, Wang Z. Common Genes Involved in Autophagy, Cellular Senescence and the Inflammatory Response in AMD and Drug Discovery Identified via Biomedical Databases. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:14. [PMID: 33510953 PMCID: PMC7804500 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.1.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal pigment epithelial cell autophagy dysfunction, cellular senescence, and the retinal inflammatory response are key pathogenic factors in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which has been reviewed in our previously work in 2019. This study aims to identify genes collectively involved in these three biological processes and target drugs in AMD. Methods The pubmed2ensembl database was used to perform text mining. The GeneCodis database was applied to analyze gene ontology biological process and the KEGG pathway. The STRING database was used to analyze protein–protein interaction analysis and hub genes were identified by the Cytoscape software. The Drug Gene Interaction Database was used to perform drug–gene interactions. Results We identified 62 genes collectively involved in AMD, autophagy, cellular senescence, and inflammatory response, 19 biological processes including 42 genes, 11 enriched KEGG pathways including 37 genes, and 12 hub genes step by step via the above biomedical databases. Finally, five hub genes (IL-6, VEGF-A, TP53, IL-1β, and transforming growth factor [TGF]-β1) and their specific interaction modes were identified, corresponding with 24 target drugs with therapeutic potential for AMD. Conclusions IL-6, VEGF-A, TP53, IL-1β, and TGF-β1 are pivotal in autophagy, cellular senescence, and the inflammatory response in AMD, corresponding with 24 drugs with therapeutic potential for AMD, providing definite molecular mechanisms for further research and new possibilities for AMD treatment in the future. Translational Relevance IL-6, VEGF-A, TP53, IL-1β, and TGF-β1 may be new targets for AMD gene therapy and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoubi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengxiu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Weijie Ouyang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaoyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqi Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaru Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yurun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhichong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Ricci F, Bandello F, Navarra P, Staurenghi G, Stumpp M, Zarbin M. Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Therapeutic Management and New-Upcoming Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218242. [PMID: 33153227 PMCID: PMC7662479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) constitutes a prevalent, chronic, and progressive retinal degenerative disease of the macula that affects elderly people and cause central vision impairment. Despite therapeutic advances in the management of neovascular AMD, none of the currently used treatments cures the disease or reverses its course. Medical treatment of neovascular AMD experienced a significant advance due to the introduction of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (anti-VEGF), which dramatically changed the prognosis of the disease. However, although anti-VEGF therapy has become the standard treatment for neovascular AMD, many patients do not respond adequately to this therapy or experience a slow loss of efficacy of anti-VEGF agents after repeated administration. Additionally, current treatment with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents is associated with a significant treatment burden for patients, caregivers, and physicians. New approaches have been proposed for treating neovascular AMD. Among them, designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) seem to be as effective as monthly ranibizumab, but with greater durability, which may enhance patient compliance with needed injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Ricci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University Tor Vergata, Viale Oxford, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-33-5663-3319
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Scientific Institute San Raffaele, University Vita Salute, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Pierluigi Navarra
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, Catholic University, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Michael Stumpp
- Molecular Partners AG—Wagistrasse, 14 8952 Zurich-Schlieren, Switzerland;
| | - Marco Zarbin
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA;
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Cimaglia G, Votruba M, Morgan JE, André H, Williams PA. Potential Therapeutic Benefit of NAD + Supplementation for Glaucoma and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092871. [PMID: 32961812 PMCID: PMC7551676 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide with significant health and societal burdens. To date, no clinical cures are available and treatments target only the manageable symptoms and risk factors (but do not remediate the underlying pathology of the disease). Both diseases are neurodegenerative in their pathology of the retina and as such many of the events that trigger cell dysfunction, degeneration, and eventual loss are due to mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Here, we critically review how a decreased bioavailability of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD; a crucial metabolite in healthy and disease states) may underpin many of these aberrant mechanisms. We propose how exogenous sources of NAD may become a therapeutic standard for the treatment of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Cimaglia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
| | - Marcela Votruba
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
- Cardiff Eye Unit, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, Wales, UK
| | - James E. Morgan
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4YS, Wales, UK
| | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (H.A.); (P.A.W.)
| | - Pete A. Williams
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (H.A.); (P.A.W.)
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Tosi GM, Neri G, Barbera S, Mundo L, Parolini B, Lazzi S, Lugano R, Poletto E, Leoncini L, Pertile G, Mongiat M, Dimberg A, Galvagni F, Orlandini M. The Binding of CD93 to Multimerin-2 Promotes Choroidal Neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:30. [PMID: 32697305 PMCID: PMC7425738 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the involvement of CD93 and Multimerin-2 in three choroidal neovascularization (CNV) models and to evaluate their contribution in the neovascular progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Choroidal neovascular membranes collected during surgery from AMD patients were analyzed by microscopy methods. Laser-induced CNV mouse models and choroid sprouting assays (CSAs) were carried out using the CD93 knockout mouse model. An original ex vivo CSA of vascular angiogenesis, employing choroid tissues isolated from human donors, was developed. Results In contrast to healthy choroid endothelium, hyperproliferative choroidal endothelial cells (ECs) of AMD patients expressed high levels of CD93, and Multimerin-2 was abundantly deposited along the choroidal neovasculature. CD93 knockout mice showed a significant reduced neovascularization after laser photocoagulation, and their choroidal ECs displayed a decreased ability to produce sprouts in ex vivo angiogenesis assays. Moreover, the presence of an antibody able to hamper the CD93/Multimerin-2 interaction reduced vascular sprouting in the human CSA. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that CD93 and its interaction with Multimerin-2 play an important role in pathological vascularization of the choroid, disclosing new possibilities for therapeutic intervention to neovascular AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gian Marco Tosi
- Ophthalmology Unit of the Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Neri
- Ophthalmology Unit of the Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Barbera
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Mundo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Section of Pathology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Lazzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Section of Pathology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Roberta Lugano
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Evelina Poletto
- Department of Research and Diagnosis, Division of Molecular Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Leoncini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Section of Pathology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar (VR), Italy
| | - Maurizio Mongiat
- Department of Research and Diagnosis, Division of Molecular Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Anna Dimberg
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Orlandini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Alves CH, Fernandes R, Santiago AR, Ambrósio AF. Microglia Contribution to the Regulation of the Retinal and Choroidal Vasculature in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051217. [PMID: 32423062 PMCID: PMC7290930 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is a highly metabolically active tissue with high-level consumption of nutrients and oxygen. This high metabolic demand requires a properly developed and maintained vascular system. The retina is nourished by two systems: the central retinal artery that supplies the inner retina and the choriocapillaris that supplies the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Pathological neovascularization, characterized by endothelial cell proliferation and new vessel formation, is a common hallmark in several retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A limited number of studies have suggested that microglia, the resident immune cells of the retina, have an important role not only in the pathology but also in the formation and physiology of the retinal vascular system. Here, we review the current knowledge on microglial interaction with the retinal vascular system under physiological and pathological conditions. To do so, we first highlight the role of microglial cells in the formation and maintenance of the retinal vasculature system. Thereafter, we discuss the molecular signaling mechanisms through which microglial cells contribute to the alterations in retinal and choroidal vasculatures and to the neovascularization in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Henrique Alves
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Fernandes
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Raquel Santiago
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Francisco Ambrósio
- Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.H.A.); (R.F.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-239-480093
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Huang SS. Future Vision 2020 and Beyond-5 Critical Trends in Eye Research. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2020; 9:180-185. [PMID: 32501897 PMCID: PMC7299218 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ophthalmology has been at the forefront of many innovations in basic science and clinical research. The randomized prospective multicenter clinical trial, comparative clinical trials, the bench to beside development of diagnostic and therapeutic devices, the powerful combination of biostatistics and epidemiology, gene therapy, cell-based therapy, stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, artificial intelligence, and the development of personalized molecular medicine continue to propel us forward. This article summarizes several critical trends in eye research.Innovative translational research continues to bring new solutions to blinding retinal diseases. The discovery of the genetic code presaged a day when the development of molecular tools and understanding of the basis of disease would lead not only to disease management but potentially lifelong cure. After decades of investigation, gene therapy is now a reality for a single autosomal recessive bi-allelic disease, Lebers Congenital Amaurosis. Its success has paved the way for a myriad of conditions once thought to be untreatable. In parallel, the progress to utilize pluripotential stem cells, immunomodulation, computational biology, and continued investigation into the fundamental mechanisms of cell and molecular biology is breathtaking in its rapidity. The next decade is likely to be the most exciting in the history of medicine. It will be essential that research progresses in a meticulously thoughtful, ethical, and collaborative process that safeguards the trust of our work and that of the society we serve.Presented as the International Award Lecture, Asia-Pacific Vitreoretinal Society meeting, November 2019, Shanghai China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suber S. Huang
- Retina Center of Ohio, Cleveland, OH
- National Eye Health Education Program Steering Committee, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, USA
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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Induction of Heat Shock Protein 70 in Mouse RPE as an In Vivo Model of Transpupillary Thermal Stimulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062063. [PMID: 32192227 PMCID: PMC7139698 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The induction of heat shock response in the macula has been proposed as a useful therapeutic strategy for retinal neurodegenerative diseases by promoting proteostasis and enhancing protective chaperone mechanisms. We applied transpupillary 1064 nm long-duration laser heating to the mouse (C57Bl/6J) fundus to examine the heat shock response in vivo. The intensity and spatial distribution of heat shock protein (HSP) 70 expression along with the concomitant probability for damage were measured 24 h after laser irradiation in the mouse retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) as a function of laser power. Our results show that the range of heating powers for producing heat shock response while avoiding damage in the mouse RPE is narrow. At powers of 64 and 70 mW, HSP70 immunostaining indicates 90 and 100% probability for clearly elevated HSP expression while the corresponding probability for damage is 20 and 33%, respectively. Tunel staining identified the apoptotic regions, and the estimated 50% damaging threshold probability for the heating (ED50) was ~72 mW. The staining with Bestrophin1 (BEST1) demonstrated RPE cell atrophy with the most intense powers. Consequently, fundus heating with a long-duration laser provides an approachable method to develop heat shock-based therapies for the RPE of retinal disease model mice.
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