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Maddala R, Eldawy C, Ho LTY, Challa P, Rao PV. Influence of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 on Intraocular Pressure in Mice. J Transl Med 2024; 104:102025. [PMID: 38290601 PMCID: PMC11031300 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2024.102025] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a stress-sensitive cytokine, and a distant member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily, has been shown to exhibit increased levels with aging, and in various age-related pathologies. Although GDF15 levels are elevated in the aqueous humor (AH) of glaucoma (optic nerve atrophy) patients, the possible role of this cytokine in the modulation of intraocular pressure (IOP) or AH outflow is unknown. The current study addresses this question using transgenic mice expressing human GDF15 and GDF15 null mice, and by perfusing enucleated mouse eyes with recombinant human GDF15 (rhGDF15). Treatment of primary cultures of human trabecular meshwork cells with a telomerase inhibitor, an endoplasmic reticulum stress-inducing agent, hydrogen peroxide, or an autophagy inhibitor resulted in significant elevation in GDF15 levels relative to the respective control cells. rhGDF15 stimulated modest but significant increases in the expression of genes encoding the extracellular matrix, cell adhesion proteins, and chemokine receptors (C-C chemokine receptor type 2) in human trabecular meshwork cells compared with controls, as deduced from the differential transcriptional profiles using RNA-sequencing analysis. There was a significant increase in IOP in transgenic mice expressing human GDF15, but not in GDF15 null mice, compared with the respective wild-type control mice. The AH outflow facility was decreased in enucleated wild-type mouse eyes perfused with rhGDF15. Light microcopy-based histologic examination of the conventional AH outflow pathway tissues did not reveal identifiable differences between the GDF15-targeted and control mice. Taken together, these results reveal the modest elevation of IOP in mice expressing human GDF15 possibly stemming from decreased AH outflow through the trabecular pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupalatha Maddala
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Camelia Eldawy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Leona T Y Ho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Pratap Challa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Ponugoti V Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.
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2
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Shimizu S, Honjo M, Liu M, Aihara M. An Autotaxin-Induced Ocular Hypertension Mouse Model Reflecting Physiological Aqueous Biomarker. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:32. [PMID: 38386333 PMCID: PMC10896239 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.2.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Animal models of ocular hypertension (OH) have been developed to understand the pathogenesis of glaucoma and facilitate drug discovery. However, many of these models are fraught with issues, including severe intraocular inflammation and technical challenges. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is implicated in trabecular meshwork fibrosis and increased resistance of aqueous outflow, factors that contribute to high intraocular pressure (IOP) in human open-angle glaucoma. We aimed to elevate IOP by increasing expression of the LPA-producing enzyme autotaxin (ATX) in mouse eyes. Methods Tamoxifen-inducible ATX transgenic mice were developed. Tamoxifen was administered to six- to eight-week-old mice via eye drops to achieve ATX overexpression in the eye. IOP and retinal thickness were measured over time, and retinal flat-mount were evaluated to count retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) loss after three months. Results Persistent elevation of ATX expression in mouse eyes was confirmed through immunohistochemistry and LysoPLD activity measurement. ATX Tg mice exhibited significantly increased IOP for nearly two months following tamoxifen treatment, with no anterior segment changes or inflammation. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed enhanced expression of extracellular matrix near the angle after two weeks and three months of ATX induction. This correlated with reduced outflow facility, indicating that sustained ATX overexpression induces angle fibrosis, elevating IOP. Although inner retinal layer thickness remained stable, peripheral retina showed a notable reduction in RGC cell count. Conclusions These findings confirm the successful creation of an open-angle OH mouse model, in which ATX expression in the eye prompts fibrosis near the angle and maintains elevated IOP over extended periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Shimizu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Senju Laboratory of Ocular Science, Senju Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Megumi Honjo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mengxuan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Aihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Wang T, Soundararajan A, Rabinowitz J, Jaiswal A, Osborne T, Pattabiraman PP. Identification of the novel role of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) in mechanotransduction and intraocular pressure regulation. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23248. [PMID: 37823226 PMCID: PMC10826798 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301185r] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Trabecular meshwork (TM) cells are contractile and mechanosensitive, and they aid in maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) homeostasis. Lipids are attributed to modulating TM contractility, with poor mechanistic understanding. In this study using human TM cells, we identify the mechanosensing role of the transcription factors sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) involved in lipogenesis. By constitutively activating SREBPs and pharmacologically inactivating SREBPs, we have mechanistically deciphered the attributes of SREBPs in regulating the contractile properties of TM. The pharmacological inhibition of SREBPs by fatostatin and molecular inactivation of SREBPs ex vivo and in vivo, respectively, results in significant IOP lowering. As a proof of concept, fatostatin significantly decreased the SREBPs responsive genes and enzymes involved in lipogenic pathways as well as the levels of the phospholipid, cholesterol, and triglyceride. Further, we show that fatostatin mitigated actin polymerization machinery and stabilization, and decreased ECM synthesis and secretion. We thus postulate that lowering lipogenesis in the TM outflow pathway can hold the key to lowering IOP by modifying the TM biomechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Glick Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1160 West Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States of America
- Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Medical Neuroscience Graduate Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, 320 W. 15th Street, Indiana, 46202, United States of America
| | - Avinash Soundararajan
- Glick Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1160 West Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey Rabinowitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Anant Jaiswal
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Department of Medicine and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, St. Petersburg, Florida, 33701, United States of America
| | - Timothy Osborne
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Department of Medicine and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, St. Petersburg, Florida, 33701, United States of America
| | - Padmanabhan Paranji Pattabiraman
- Glick Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1160 West Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States of America
- Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Medical Neuroscience Graduate Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, 320 W. 15th Street, Indiana, 46202, United States of America
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Boothman I, Clayton LM, McCormack M, Driscoll AM, Stevelink R, Moloney P, Krause R, Kunz WS, Diehl S, O’Brien TJ, Sills GJ, de Haan GJ, Zara F, Koeleman BP, Depondt C, Marson AG, Stefansson H, Stefansson K, Craig J, Johnson MR, Striano P, Lerche H, Furney SJ, Delanty N, Sisodiya SM, Cavalleri GL. Testing for pharmacogenomic predictors of ppRNFL thinning in individuals exposed to vigabatrin. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1156362. [PMID: 37790589 PMCID: PMC10542409 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1156362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The anti-seizure medication vigabatrin (VGB) is effective for controlling seizures, especially infantile spasms. However, use is limited by VGB-associated visual field loss (VAVFL). The mechanisms by which VGB causes VAVFL remains unknown. Average peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (ppRNFL) thickness correlates with the degree of visual field loss (measured by mean radial degrees). Duration of VGB exposure, maximum daily VGB dose, and male sex are associated with ppRNFL thinning. Here we test the hypothesis that common genetic variation is a predictor of ppRNFL thinning in VGB exposed individuals. Identifying pharmacogenomic predictors of ppRNFL thinning in VGB exposed individuals could potentially enable safe prescribing of VGB and broader use of a highly effective drug. Methods Optical coherence topography (OCT) and GWAS data were processed from VGB-exposed individuals (n = 71) recruited through the EpiPGX Consortium. We conducted quantitative GWAS analyses for the following OCT measurements: (1) average ppRNFL, (2) inferior quadrant, (3) nasal quadrant, (4) superior quadrant, (5) temporal quadrant, (6) inferior nasal sector, (7) nasal inferior sector, (8) superior nasal sector, and (9) nasal superior sector. Using the summary statistics from the GWAS analyses we conducted gene-based testing using VEGAS2. We conducted nine different PRS analyses using the OCT measurements. To determine if VGB-exposed individuals were predisposed to having a thinner RNFL, we calculated their polygenic burden for retinal thickness. PRS alleles for retinal thickness were calculated using published summary statistics from a large-scale GWAS of inner retinal morphology using the OCT images of UK Biobank participants. Results The GWAS analyses did not identify a significant association after correction for multiple testing. Similarly, the gene-based and PRS analyses did not reveal a significant association that survived multiple testing. Conclusion We set out to identify common genetic predictors for VGB induced ppRNFL thinning. Results suggest that large-effect common genetic predictors are unlikely to exist for ppRNFL thinning (as a marker of VAVFL). Sample size was a limitation of this study. However, further recruitment is a challenge as VGB is rarely used today because of this adverse reaction. Rare variants may be predictors of this adverse drug reaction and were not studied here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Boothman
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- The SFI Futureneuro Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- The SFI Centre for Research Training in Genomics Data Science, Galway, Ireland
| | - Lisa M. Clayton
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks, United Kingdom
| | - Mark McCormack
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Remi Stevelink
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Patrick Moloney
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Roland Krause
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Wolfram S. Kunz
- Division of Neurochemistry, Department of Epileptology, University Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sarah Diehl
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Terence J. O’Brien
- Departments of Neuroscience and Neurology, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Graeme J. Sills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Gerrit-Jan de Haan
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Federico Zara
- "IRCCS”G. Gaslini" Institute, Genova, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Bobby P. Koeleman
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Chantal Depondt
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital Erasme, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anthony G. Marson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - John Craig
- Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Michael R. Johnson
- Division of Brain Sciences, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pasquale Striano
- "IRCCS”G. Gaslini" Institute, Genova, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Holger Lerche
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simon J. Furney
- Genomic Oncology Research Group, Deptartment of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Norman Delanty
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sanjay M. Sisodiya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks, United Kingdom
| | - Gianpiero L. Cavalleri
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- The SFI Futureneuro Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- The SFI Centre for Research Training in Genomics Data Science, Galway, Ireland
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Pasquale LR, Khawaja AP, Wiggs JL, Kim J, Hysi P, Elze T, Lasky-Su J, Kang JH, Zeleznik O. Metabolite and Lipid Biomarkers Associated With Intraocular Pressure and Inner Retinal Morphology: 1H NMR Spectroscopy Results From the UK Biobank. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:11. [PMID: 37552033 PMCID: PMC10411643 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.11.11] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess metabolites associated with intraocular pressure (IOP) and inner retina structure. Methods We cross-sectionally assessed 168 non-fasting plasma metabolites measured by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with IOP (n = 28,195), macular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (mRNFL; n = 10,584), and macular ganglion cell inner plexiform layer thickness (mGCIPL; n = 10,554) in the UK Biobank. We used multiple linear regression models adjusting for various covariates with probit-transformed metabolite levels as predictors for each outcome. Each estimate represents the difference in outcome variable per standard deviation increase in the probit-transformed metabolite values. We used the number of effective (NEF) tests and false discovery rate (FDR) to adjust for multiple comparisons for metabolites and metabolite classes, respectively. Results In individual metabolite analysis, multiple amino acids, especially branched-chain amino acids, were associated with lower IOP (-0.12 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval = -0.16 to -0.07; NEF = 2.7E-05). Albumin, 3 hydroxybutyrate, lactate, and several lipids were associated with higher IOP (range = 0.07 to 0.18 mm Hg, NEF = ≤ 0.039). In IOP-adjusted analyses, five HDL-related metabolites were associated with thinner mRNFL (-0.15 microns for all metabolites, NEF = ≤ 0.027), whereas five LDL-related metabolites were associated with thicker mGCIPL (range = 0.17 to 0.20 microns; NEF = ≤ 0.044). In metabolite class analysis, the lipid components of lipoproteins (cholesterol, triglycerides, etc.) were not associated with our outcomes (FDR > 0.2 for all); yet multiple lipoproteins were significantly (FDR < 0.05) associated with all outcomes. Conclusions Branched-chain amino acids were associated with lower IOP, HDL metabolites were associated with thinner mRNFL, and LDL metabolites were associated with thicker mGCIPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis R. Pasquale
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Anthony P. Khawaja
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janey L. Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jihye Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Pirro Hysi
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tobias Elze
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Research Eye Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jae H. Kang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Oana Zeleznik
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - for the UK Biobank Eye and Vision Consortium
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Research Eye Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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6
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Zeleznik OA, Kang JH, Lasky-Su J, Eliassen AH, Frueh L, Clish CB, Rosner BA, Elze T, Hysi P, Khawaja A, Wiggs JL, Pasquale LR. Plasma metabolite profile for primary open-angle glaucoma in three US cohorts and the UK Biobank. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2860. [PMID: 37208353 PMCID: PMC10199010 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38466-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy and a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, and yet the etiology of this multifactorial disease is poorly understood. We aimed to identify plasma metabolites associated with the risk of developing POAG in a case-control study (599 cases and 599 matched controls) nested within the Nurses' Health Studies, and Health Professionals' Follow-Up Study. Plasma metabolites were measured with LC-MS/MS at the Broad Institute (Cambridge, MA, USA); 369 metabolites from 18 metabolite classes passed quality control analyses. For comparison, in a cross-sectional study in the UK Biobank, 168 metabolites were measured in plasma samples from 2,238 prevalent glaucoma cases and 44,723 controls using NMR spectroscopy (Nightingale, Finland; version 2020). Here we show higher levels of diglycerides and triglycerides are adversely associated with glaucoma in all four cohorts, suggesting that they play an important role in glaucoma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana A Zeleznik
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jae H Kang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Heather Eliassen
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisa Frueh
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Clary B Clish
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Bernard A Rosner
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tobias Elze
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Research Eye Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pirro Hysi
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
- St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anthony Khawaja
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Janey L Wiggs
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Louis R Pasquale
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Dillinger AE, Kuespert S, Seleem AA, Neuendorf J, Schneider M, Fuchshofer R. CCN2/CTGF tip the balance of growth factors towards TGF-β2 in primary open-angle glaucoma. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1045411. [PMID: 37251082 PMCID: PMC10210157 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1045411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
TGF-β2 is the predominant TGF-β isoform within the eye. One function of TGF-β2 is to provide the eye with immune protection against intraocular inflammation. The beneficial function of TGF-β2 within the eye must be under tight control of a network of different factors. A disbalance of the network can result in different eye diseases. In Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG), one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, TGF-β2 is significantly elevated in the aqueous humor and antagonistic molecules like BMPs are reduced. The changes provoke an altering of the quantity and quality of the extracellular matrix and the actin cytoskeleton in the outflow tissues, leading to an increased outflow resistance and thereby to an increased intraocular pressure (IOP), the major risk factor for primary open-angle glaucoma. The pathologic effect of TGF-β2 in primary open-angle glaucoma is mainly meditated by CCN2/CTGF. CCN2/CTGF can modulate TGF-β and BMP signaling by direct binding. The eye specific overexpression of CCN2/CTGF caused an increase in IOP and led to a loss of axons, the hallmark of primary open-angle glaucoma. CCN2/CTGF appears to play a critical role in the homeostatic balance of the eye, so we investigated if CCN2/CTGF can modulate BMP and TGF-β signaling pathways in the outflow tissues. To this end, we analyzed the direct effect of CCN2/CTGF on both signaling pathways in two transgenic mouse models with a moderate (βB1-CTGF1) and a high CCN2/CTGF (βB1-CTGF6) overexpression and in immortalized human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. Additionally, we investigate whether CCN2/CTGF mediates TGF-β effects via different pathways. We observed developmental malformations in the ciliary body in βB1-CTGF6 caused by an inhibition of the BMP signaling pathway. In βB1-CTGF1, we detected a dysregulation of the BMP and TGF-β signaling pathways, with reduced BMP activity and increased TGF-β signaling. A direct CCN2/CTGF effect on BMP and TGF-β signaling was shown in immortalized HTM cells. Finally, CCN2/CTGF mediated its effects on TGF-β via the RhoA/ROCK and ERK signaling in immortalized HTM cells. We conclude that CCN2/CTGF functions as a modulator of the homeostatic balance of BMP and TGF-β signaling pathways, which is shifted in primary open-angle glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E. Dillinger
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Kuespert
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Amin A. Seleem
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al Ula, Taibah University, Almadinah Almunawwarah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jakob Neuendorf
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Schneider
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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8
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Kolko M, Mouhammad ZA, Cvenkel B. Is fat the future for saving sight? Bioactive lipids and their impact on glaucoma. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 245:108412. [PMID: 37037408 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is characterized by a continuous loss of retinal ganglion cells. The cause of glaucoma is associated with an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), but the underlying pathophysiology is diverse and, in most cases, unknown. There is an indisputable unmet need to identify new pathways involved in glaucoma pathogenesis. Increasing evidence suggests that bioactive lipids may be critical in the development and progression of glaucoma. Preclinical and clinical bioactive lipid targets exist and are being developed. In this review, we aim to shed light on the potential of bioactive lipids for the prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of glaucoma by asking the question "is fat the future for saving sight".
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kolko
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Ophthalmology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark.
| | | | - Barbara Cvenkel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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9
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Eymery MC, McCarthy AA, Hausmann J. Linking medicinal cannabis to autotaxin-lysophosphatidic acid signaling. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202201595. [PMID: 36623871 PMCID: PMC9834664 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autotaxin is primarily known for the formation of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) from lysophosphatidylcholine. LPA is an important signaling phospholipid that can bind to six G protein-coupled receptors (LPA1-6). The ATX-LPA signaling axis is a critical component in many physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Here, we describe a potent inhibition of Δ9-trans-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound of medicinal cannabis and related cannabinoids, on the catalysis of two isoforms of ATX with nanomolar apparent EC50 values. Furthermore, we decipher the binding interface of ATX to THC, and its derivative 9(R)-Δ6a,10a-THC (6a10aTHC), by X-ray crystallography. Cellular experiments confirm this inhibitory effect, revealing a significant reduction of internalized LPA1 in the presence of THC with simultaneous ATX and lysophosphatidylcholine stimulation. Our results establish a functional interaction of THC with autotaxin-LPA signaling and highlight novel aspects of medicinal cannabis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias C Eymery
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Jens Hausmann
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Grenoble, Grenoble, France
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Chemical Biology Core Facility, Heidelberg, Germany
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10
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Shinozaki Y, Saito K, Kashiwagi K, Koizumi S. Ocular P2 receptors and glaucoma. Neuropharmacology 2023; 222:109302. [PMID: 36341810 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an energy source currency in cells, is released or leaked to the extracellular space under both physiological and pathological conditions. Extracellular ATP functions as an intercellular signaling molecule through activation of purinergic P2 receptors. Ocular tissue and cells release ATP in response to physiological stimuli such as intraocular pressure (IOP), and P2 receptor activation regulates IOP elevation or reduction. Dysregulated purinergic signaling may cause abnormally elevated IOP, which is one of the major risk factors for glaucoma. Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, is characterized by progressive degeneration of optic nerves and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which are essential retinal neurons that transduce visual information to the brain. An elevation in IOP may stress RGCs and increase the risk for glaucoma pathogenesis. In the aqueous humor of human patients with glaucoma, the ATP level is significantly elevated. Such excess amount of ATP may directly cause RGC death via a specific subtype of P2 receptors. Dysregulated purinergic signaling may also trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity via activating non-neuronal cell types such as glial cells. In this review, we discussed the physiological roles of extracellular nucleotides in the ocular tissue and their potential role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. This article is part of the Special Issue on 'Purinergic Signaling: 50 years'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youichi Shinozaki
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan; Interdisciplinary Brain-Immune Research Center, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kozo Saito
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kenji Kashiwagi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Schuichi Koizumi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan; Interdisciplinary Brain-Immune Research Center, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan.
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11
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Soundararajan A, Wang T, Sundararajan R, Wijeratne A, Mosley A, Harvey FC, Bhattacharya S, Pattabiraman PP. Multiomics analysis reveals the mechanical stress-dependent changes in trabecular meshwork cytoskeletal-extracellular matrix interactions. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:874828. [PMID: 36176278 PMCID: PMC9513235 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.874828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Trabecular meshwork (TM) tissue is subjected to constant mechanical stress due to the ocular pulse created by the cardiac cycle. This brings about alterations in the membrane lipids and associated cell–cell adhesion and cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, triggering intracellular signaling responses to counter mechanical insults. A loss of such response can lead to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), a major risk factor for primary open-angle glaucoma. This study is aimed to understand the changes in signaling responses by TM subjected to mechanical stretch. We utilized multiomics to perform an unbiased mRNA sequencing to identify changes in transcripts, mass spectrometry- (MS-) based quantitative proteomics for protein changes, and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) profiling-based MS and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-) based MS to characterize the lipid changes. We performed pathway analysis to obtain an integrated map of TM response to mechanical stretch. The human TM cells subjected to mechanical stretch demonstrated an upregulation of protein quality control, oxidative damage response, pro-autophagic signal, induction of anti-apoptotic, and survival signaling. We propose that mechanical stretch-induced lipid signaling via increased ceramide and sphingomyelin potentially contributes to increased TM stiffness through actin-cytoskeleton reorganization and profibrotic response. Interestingly, increased phospholipids and diacylglycerol due to mechanical stretch potentially enable cell membrane remodeling and changes in signaling pathways to alter cellular contractility. Overall, we propose the mechanistic interplay of macromolecules to bring about a concerted cellular response in TM cells to achieve mechanotransduction and IOP regulation when TM cells undergo mechanical stretch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Soundararajan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Rekha Sundararajan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Aruna Wijeratne
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Center for Proteome Analysis, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Amber Mosley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Center for Proteome Analysis, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Faith Christine Harvey
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine at University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Integrative Metabolomics Research Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sanjoy Bhattacharya
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine at University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Integrative Metabolomics Research Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Padmanabhan Paranji Pattabiraman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Stark Neuroscience Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Padmanabhan Paranji Pattabiraman,
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12
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Fibrotic Response of Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells to Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 3 and Autotaxin in Aqueous Humor. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091231. [PMID: 36139071 PMCID: PMC9496180 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examines the potential role of transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3) on the fibrotic response of cultured human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells. The relationships and trans-signaling interactions between TGF-β3 and autotaxin (ATX) in HTM cells were also examined. The levels of TGF-β and ATX in the aqueous humor (AH) of patients were measured by an immunoenzymetric assay. The TGF-β3-induced expression of the fibrogenic markers, fibronectin, collagen type I alpha 1 chain, and alpha-smooth muscle actin, and ATX were examined by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry, and the trans-signaling regulatory effect of TGF-β3 on ATX expression was also evaluated. In HTM cells, the significant upregulation of ATX was induced by TGF-β3 at a concentration of 0.1 ng/mL, corresponding to the physiological concentration in the AH of patients with exfoliative glaucoma (XFG). However, higher concentrations of TGF-β3 significantly suppressed ATX expression. TGF-β3 regulated ATX transcription and signaling in HTM cells, inducing the upregulation of fibrogenic proteins in a dose-dependent manner. Trans-signaling of TGF-β3 regulated ATX transcription, protein expression, and signaling, and was thereby suggested to induce fibrosis of the trabecular meshwork. Modulation of trans-signaling between TGF-β3 and ATX may be key to elucidate the pathology of XFG, and for the development of novel treatment modalities.
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13
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Kang JH, Zeleznik O, Frueh L, Lasky-Su J, Eliassen AH, Clish C, Rosner BA, Pasquale LR, Wiggs JL. Prediagnostic Plasma Metabolomics and the Risk of Exfoliation Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:15. [PMID: 35951322 PMCID: PMC9386645 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.9.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The etiology of exfoliation glaucoma (XFG) is poorly understood. We aimed to identify a prediagnostic plasma metabolomic signature associated with XFG. Methods We conducted a 1:1 matched case-control study nested within the Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study. We collected blood samples in 1989-1990 (Nurses' Health Study) and 1993-1995 (Health Professionals Follow-up Study). We identified 205 incident XFG cases through 2016 (average time to diagnosis from blood draw = 11.8 years) who self-reported glaucoma and were confirmed as XFG cases with medical records. We profiled plasma metabolites using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We evaluated 379 known metabolites (transformed for normality using probit scores) using multiple conditional logistic models. Metabolite set enrichment analysis was used to identify metabolite classes associated with XFG. To adjust for multiple comparisons, we used number of effective tests (NEF) and the false discovery rate (FDR). Results Mean age of cases (n = 205) at diagnosis was 71 years; 85% were women and more than 99% were Caucasian; controls (n = 205) reported eye examinations as of the matched cases' index date. Thirty-three metabolites were nominally significantly associated with XFG (P < 0.05), and 4 metabolite classes were FDR-significantly associated. We observed positive associations for lysophosphatidylcholines (FDR = 0.02) and phosphatidylethanolamine plasmalogens (FDR = 0.004) and inverse associations for triacylglycerols (FDR < 0.0001) and steroids (FDR = 0.03). In particular, the multivariable-adjusted odds ratio with each 1 standard deviation higher plasma cortisone levels was 0.49 (95% confidence interval, 0.32-0.74; NEF = 0.05). Conclusions In plasma from a decade before diagnosis, lysophosphatidylcholines and phosphatidylethanolamine plasmalogens were positively associated and triacylglycerols and steroids (e.g., cortisone) were inversely associated with XFG risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae H Kang
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Oana Zeleznik
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Lisa Frueh
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - A Heather Eliassen
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Departments of Nutrition and Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Clary Clish
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Bernard A Rosner
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Louis R Pasquale
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Janey L Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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14
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Booijink R, Salgado-Polo F, Jamieson C, Perrakis A, Bansal R. A type IV Autotaxin inhibitor ameliorates acute liver injury and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e16333. [PMID: 35833384 PMCID: PMC9449594 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling axis is an important but rather underexplored pathway in liver disease. LPA is predominantly produced by Autotaxin (ATX) that has gained significant attention with an impressive number of ATX inhibitors (type I-IV) reported. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of a (yet unexplored) type IV inhibitor, Cpd17, in liver injury. We first confirmed the involvement of the ATX-LPA signaling axis in human and murine diseased livers. Then, we evaluated the effects of Cpd17, in comparison with the classic type I inhibitor PF8380, in vitro, where Cpd17 showed higher efficacy. Thereafter, we characterized the mechanism-of-action of both inhibitors and found that Cpd17 was more potent in inhibiting RhoA-mediated cytoskeletal remodeling, and phosphorylation of MAPK/ERK and AKT/PKB. Finally, the therapeutic potential of Cpd17 was investigated in CCl4 -induced acute liver injury and diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, demonstrating an excellent potential of Cpd17 in reducing liver injury in both disease models in vivo. We conclude that ATX inhibition, by type IV inhibitor in particular, has an excellent potential for clinical application in liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richell Booijink
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell BioPhysics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Division of Biochemistry, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fernando Salgado-Polo
- Oncode Institute, Division of Biochemistry, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Craig Jamieson
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anastassis Perrakis
- Oncode Institute, Division of Biochemistry, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruchi Bansal
- Translational Liver Research, Department of Medical Cell BioPhysics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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15
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YAP/TAZ Promote Fibrotic Activity in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells by Sensing Cytoskeleton Structure Alternation. CHEMOSENSORS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/chemosensors10070235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Trabecular meshwork (TM) is the main channel of aqueous humor (AH) outflow and the crucial tissue responsible for intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation. The aberrant fibrotic activity of human TM (HTM) cells is thought to be partially responsible for the increased resistance to AH outflow and elevated IOP. This study aimed to identify the TM cell fibrotic activity biomarker and illustrate the mechanisms of fibrotic activity regulation in HTM cells. We used TGFβ2-treated HTM cells and detected the changes in the cytoskeletal structure, the Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding domain (TAZ) activation, and the expression levels of the fibrosis-related proteins Collagen I and α-SMA in HTM cells by immunofluorescence staining or western bolt analyses. The expression of YAP was inhibited using siRNA transfection. The results showed that the expression levels of YAP/TAZ and the fibrosis-related proteins Collagen I and α-SMA in HTM cells were elevated under TGF-β2 treatment, which was correlated with the structural change of the cellular F-actin cytoskeleton. Furthermore, the inhibition of YAP decreased the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), Collagen I, and α-SMA in HTM cells. These findings demonstrate that YAP/TAZ are potential biomarkers in evaluating the TM cell fibrotic activity, and it could sense cytoskeletal structure cues and regulate the fibrotic activity of TM cells.
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16
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Choi JA, Maddala R, Karnam S, Skiba NP, Vann R, Challa P, Rao PV. Role of vasorin, an anti-apoptotic, anti-TGF-β and hypoxia-induced glycoprotein in the trabecular meshwork cells and glaucoma. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2063-2075. [PMID: 35170203 PMCID: PMC8980963 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, is commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure due to impaired aqueous humour (AH) drainage through the trabecular meshwork. The aetiological mechanisms contributing to impaired AH outflow, however, are poorly understood. Here, we identified the secreted form of vasorin, a transmembrane glycoprotein, as a common constituent of human AH by mass spectrometry and immunoblotting analysis. ELISA assay revealed a significant but marginal decrease in vasorin levels in the AH of primary open‐angle glaucoma patients compared to non‐glaucoma cataract patients. Human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells were confirmed to express vasorin, which has been shown to possess anti‐apoptotic and anti‐TGF‐β activities. Treatment of HTM cells with vasorin induced actin stress fibres and focal adhesions and suppressed TGF‐β2‐induced SMAD2/3 activation in HTM cells. Additionally, cobalt chloride‐induced hypoxia stimulated a robust elevation in vasorin expression, and vasorin suppressed TNF‐α‐induced cell death in HTM cells. Taken together, these findings reveal the importance of vasorin in maintenance of cell survival, inhibition of TGF‐β induced biological responses in TM cells, and the decreasing trend in vasorin levels in the AH of glaucoma patients suggests a plausible role for vasorin in the pathobiology of ocular hypertension and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin A Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Rupalatha Maddala
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shruthi Karnam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nikolai P Skiba
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robin Vann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pratap Challa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ponugoti Vasantha Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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17
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Maddala R, Ho LTY, Karnam S, Navarro I, Osterwald A, Stinnett SS, Ullmer C, Vann RR, Challa P, Rao PV. Elevated Levels of Growth/Differentiation Factor-15 in the Aqueous Humor and Serum of Glaucoma Patients. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030744. [PMID: 35160195 PMCID: PMC8837086 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulated levels of growth/differentiation factor-15 (GDF15), a divergent member of the transforming growth factor-beta super family, have been found to be associated with the pathology of various diseases. In this study, we evaluated the levels of GDF15 in aqueous humor (AH) and serum samples derived from primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and age- and gender-matched non-glaucoma (cataract) patients to assess the plausible association between GDF15 and POAG. GDF15 levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, or the Kruskal–Wallis test and linear regression. GDF15 levels in the AH (n = 105) of POAG patients were significantly elevated (by 7.4-fold) compared to cataract patients (n = 117). Serum samples obtained from a subgroup of POAG patients (n = 41) also showed a significant increase in GDF15 levels (by 50%) compared to cataract patients. GDF15 levels were elevated in male, female, African American, and Caucasian POAG patients. This study reveals a significant and marked elevation of GDF15 levels in the AH of POAG patients compared to non-glaucoma cataract control patients. Although serum GDF15 levels were also elevated in POAG patients, the magnitude of difference was much smaller relative to that found in the AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupalatha Maddala
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Leona T. Y. Ho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Shruthi Karnam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Iris Navarro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Anja Osterwald
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.O.); (C.U.)
| | - Sandra S. Stinnett
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland; (A.O.); (C.U.)
| | - Robin R. Vann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
| | - Pratap Challa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
- Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (P.V.R.); Tel.: +919-684-3282 (P.C.); +919-681-5883 (P.V.R.); Fax: +919-681-8267 (P.C.); +919-684-8983 (P.V.R.)
| | - Ponugoti V. Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (R.M.); (L.T.Y.H.); (S.K.); (I.N.); (S.S.S.); (R.R.V.)
- Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Correspondence: (P.C.); (P.V.R.); Tel.: +919-684-3282 (P.C.); +919-681-5883 (P.V.R.); Fax: +919-681-8267 (P.C.); +919-684-8983 (P.V.R.)
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18
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Hunziker D, Reinehr S, Palmhof M, Wagner N, Biniasch T, Stute G, Mattei P, Schmitz P, DiGiorgio P, Hert J, Rudolph MG, Benz J, Stihle M, Gsell B, Müller S, Gasser R, Schonhoven N, Ullmer C, Joachim SC. Synthesis, Characterization, and in vivo Evaluation of a Novel Potent Autotaxin-Inhibitor. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:699535. [PMID: 35126098 PMCID: PMC8807399 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.699535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The autotaxin-lysophosphatidic acid (ATX-LPA) signaling pathway plays a role in a variety of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or neurodegeneration. A link to the pathogenesis of glaucoma is suggested by an overactive ATX-LPA axis in aqueous humor samples of glaucoma patients. Analysis of such samples suggests that the ATX-LPA axis contributes to the fibrogenic activity and resistance to aqueous humor outflow through the trabecular meshwork. In order to inhibit or modulate this pathway, we developed a new series of ATX-inhibitors containing novel bicyclic and spirocyclic structural motifs. A potent lead compound (IC50 against ATX: 6 nM) with good in vivo PK, favorable in vitro property, and safety profile was generated. This compound leads to lowered LPA levels in vivo after oral administration. Hence, it was suitable for chronic oral treatment in two rodent models of glaucoma, the experimental autoimmune glaucoma (EAG) and the ischemia/reperfusion models. In the EAG model, rats were immunized with an optic nerve antigen homogenate, while controls received sodium chloride. Retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) was induced by elevating the intraocular pressure (IOP) in one eye to 140 mmHg for 60 min, followed by reperfusion, while the other untreated eye served as control. Retinae and optic nerves were evaluated 28 days after EAG or 7 and 14 days after I/R induction. Oral treatment with the optimized ATX-inhibitor lead to reduced retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss in both glaucoma models. In the optic nerve, the protective effect of ATX inhibition was less effective compared to the retina and only a trend to a weakened neurofilament distortion was detectable. Taken together, these results provide evidence that the dysregulation of the ATX-LPA axis in the aqueous humor of glaucoma patients, in addition to the postulated outflow impairment, might also contribute to RGC loss. The observation that ATX-inhibitor treatment in both glaucoma models did not result in significant IOP increases or decreases after oral treatment indicates that protection from RGC loss due to inhibition of the ATX-LPA axis is independent of an IOP lowering effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hunziker
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marina Palmhof
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Natalie Wagner
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Biniasch
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Gesa Stute
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Patrizio Mattei
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petra Schmitz
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick DiGiorgio
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jérôme Hert
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus G. Rudolph
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joerg Benz
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martine Stihle
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernard Gsell
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Müller
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rodolfo Gasser
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nina Schonhoven
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Ophthalmology Discovery, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Christoph Ullmer, ; Stephanie C. Joachim,
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- *Correspondence: Christoph Ullmer, ; Stephanie C. Joachim,
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19
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Murphy R, Irnaten M, Hopkins A, O'Callaghan J, Stamer WD, Clark AF, Wallace D, O'Brien CJ. Matrix Mechanotransduction via Yes-Associated Protein in Human Lamina Cribrosa Cells in Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:16. [PMID: 35015027 PMCID: PMC8762700 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.1.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Extracellular matrix stiffening is characteristic of both aging and glaucoma, and acts as a promoter and perpetuator of pathological fibrotic remodeling. Here, we investigate the role of a mechanosensitive transcriptional coactivator, Yes-associated protein (YAP), a downstream effector of multiple signaling pathways, in lamina cribrosa (LC) cell activation to a profibrotic, glaucomatous state. Methods LC cells isolated from glaucomatous human donor eyes (GLC; n = 3) were compared to LC cells from age-matched nonglaucomatous controls (NLC; n = 3) to determine differential YAP expression, protein levels, and proliferation rates. NLC cells were then cultured on soft (4 kPa), and stiff (100 kPa), collagen-1 coated polyacrylamide hydrogel substrates. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence microscopy were used to measure the expression, activity, and subcellular location of YAP and its downstream targets, respectively. Proliferation rates were examined in NLC and GLC cells by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium salt assays, across a range of incrementally increased substrate stiffness. Endpoints were examined in the presence or absence of a YAP inhibitor, verteporfin (2 µM). Results GLC cells show significantly (P < 0.05) increased YAP gene expression and total-YAP protein compared to NLC cells, with significantly increased proliferation. YAP regulation is mechanosensitive, because NLC cells cultured on pathomimetic, stiff substrates (100 kPa) show significantly upregulated YAP gene and protein expression, increased YAP phosphorylation at tyrosine 357, reduced YAP phosphorylation at serine 127, increased nuclear pooling, and increased transcriptional target, connective tissue growth factor. Accordingly, myofibroblastic markers, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I, alpha 1 (Col1A1) are increased. Proliferation rates are elevated on 50 kPa substrates and tissue culture plastic. Verteporfin treatment significantly inhibits YAP-mediated cellular activation and proliferation despite a stiffened microenvironment. Conclusions These data demonstrate how YAP plays a pivotal role in LC cells adopting a profibrotic and proliferative phenotype in response to the stiffened LC present in aging and glaucoma. YAP provides an attractive and novel therapeutic target, and its inhibition via verteporfin warrants further clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory Murphy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mustapha Irnaten
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alan Hopkins
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Abbot F Clark
- Department of Cell Biology & Immunology and the North Texas Eye Research Institute, U. North Texas Health Science Centre, Ft. Worth, Texas, United States
| | - Deborah Wallace
- Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm J O'Brien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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20
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Autotaxin May Have Lysophosphatidic Acid-Unrelated Effects on Three-Dimension (3D) Cultured Human Trabecular Meshwork (HTM) Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222112039. [PMID: 34769470 PMCID: PMC8584821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222112039] [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: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of the autotaxin (ATX)-lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling axis on the human trabecular meshwork (HTM) in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cultures of HTM cells. METHODS The effects were characterized by transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and FITC-dextran permeability (2D), measurements of size and stiffness (3D), and the expression of several genes, including extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, their modulators, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related factors. RESULTS A one-day exposure to 200 nM LPA induced significant down-sizing effects of the 3D HTM spheroids, and these effects were enhanced slightly on longer exposure. The TEER and FITC-dextran permeability data indicate that LPA induced an increase in the barrier function of the 2D HTM monolayers. A one-day exposure to a 2 mg/L solution of ATX also resulted in a significant decrease in the sizes of the 3D HTM spheroids, and an increase in stiffness was also observed. The gene expression of several ECMs, their regulators and ER-stress related factors by the 3D HTM spheroids were altered by both ATX and LPA, but in different manners. CONCLUSIONS The findings presented herein suggest that ATX may have additional roles in the human TM, in addition to the ATX-LPA signaling axis.
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21
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Wang L, Li H, Zhang W, Ren M, Shao M, Wang J. AGTR1 blocker attenuates activation of Tenon's capsule fibroblasts after glaucoma filtration surgery via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Exp Cell Res 2021; 407:112786. [PMID: 34411608 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112786] [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: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Activation of Tenon's capsule fibroblasts limits the success rate of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS), the most efficacious therapy for patients with glaucoma. Angiotensin type 1 receptor (AGTR1) is involved in tissues remodeling and fibrogenesis. However, whether AGTR1 is involved in the progress of fibrogenesis after GFS is not fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of an AGTR1 in scar formation after GFS and the potential anti-fibrosis effect of AGTR1 blocker. AGTR1 expression level was increased in subconjunctival tissues in a rat model of GFS and transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2)-induced human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs). AGTR1 blocker treatment suppressed TGF-β2-induced HTF migration and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin (FN) expression. AGTR1 blocker treatment also attenuated collagen deposition and α-SMA and FN expression in subconjunctival tissues of the rat model after GFS. Moreover, AGTR1 blocker decreased TGF-β2-induced P65 phosphorylation, P65 nuclear translocation, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) luciferase activity. Additionally, BAY 11-7082 (an NF-κB inhibitor) significantly suppressed HTF fibrosis. In conclusion, our results indicate that AGTR1 is involved in scar formation after GFS. The AGTR1 blocker attenuates subconjunctival fibrosis after GFS by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings indicate that targeting AGTR1 is a potential approach to attenuate fibrosis after GFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Hongsong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Wenyi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Meimei Ren
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Meilin Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Jianming Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 157 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710004, China.
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22
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Liu Z, Li S, Qian X, Li L, Zhang H, Liu Z. RhoA/ROCK-YAP/TAZ Axis Regulates the Fibrotic Activity in Dexamethasone-Treated Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:728932. [PMID: 34552960 PMCID: PMC8450533 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.728932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factor for glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Abnormal fibrotic activity in the human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells is considered to be partly responsible for the increased resistance of aqueous humor outflow and IOP. This study aimed to identify the fibrotic pathways using integrated bioinformatics and further elucidate their mechanism of regulating fibrotic activity in dexamethasone (DEX)-treated HTM cells. Microarray datasets from the GEO database were obtained and analyzed by GEO2R. Bioinformatics analyses, including GO and KEGG analyses, were performed to explore biological functions and signaling pathways of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The fibrotic pathways and targets were determined by western blot, RT-qPCR, or immunofluorescence staining. The cellular elastic modulus was measured using an atomic force microscope. A total of 204 DEGs, partly enriched in fibrotic activity (collagen-containing ECM, fibroblast activation) and Rap1, Ras, TGF-β, and Hippo pathways, were identified. Experimental results showed that DEX induced fibrotic activity and regulated the expression of RhoA/ROCK in HTM cells. Similarly, the constitutively active RhoA (RhoAG14V) also promoted the fibrotic activity of HTM cells. Mechanistically, RhoAG14V induced the expression and nuclear translocation of YAP/TAZ to produce CTGF. Moreover, inhibition of ROCK or YAP decreased the expression of Collagen I and α-SMA proteins induced by DEX or RhoAG14V in HTM cells. In conclusion, these results indicate that RhoA/ROCK-YAP/TAZ axis plays a crucial role in regulating the fibrotic activity of DEX-treated HTM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuqing Qian
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhicheng Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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23
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Luna C, Parker M, Challa P, Gonzalez P. Long-Term Decrease of Intraocular Pressure in Rats by Viral Delivery of miR-146a. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:14. [PMID: 34254987 PMCID: PMC8287046 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.8.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the effects of miR-146a in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and on intraocular pressure (IOP) in vivo via viral delivery of miR-146a to the anterior chamber of rat eyes. Methods Human TM cells were transfected with miR-146 mimic or inhibitor. Some cells from each group were then subjected to cyclic mechanical stress (CMS). Other cells from each group had no force applied. Gene expression was then analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Replication-deficient adenovirus and lentivirus expressing miR-146a were inoculated into the anterior segment of Brown Norway rat eyes. IOP was monitored by rebound tonometry, visual acuity was evaluated by optokinetic tracking (OKT), and inflammation markers in the anterior segment were examined by slit-lamp, qPCR, and semi-thin sections. Results miR-146 affected the expression of genes potentially involved in outflow homeostasis at basal levels and under CMS. Both lentiviral and adenoviral vectors expressing miR-146a resulted in sustained decreases in IOP ranging from 2.6 to 4.4 mmHg. Long term follow-up of rats injected with lentiviral vectors showed a sustained effect on IOP of 4.4 ± 2.9 mmHg that lasted until rats were sacrificed more than 8 months later. Eyes showed no signs of inflammation, loss of visual acuity, or other visible abnormalities. Conclusions Intracameral delivery of miR-146a can provide a long-term decrease of IOP in rats without signs of inflammation or other visible adverse effects. Transitional Relevance The IOP-lowering effects of miR-146 observed in rats provides a necessary step toward the development of an effective gene therapy for glaucoma in humans.
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24
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Abstract
Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the cardinal and only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma, the leading cause of irreparable blindness worldwide. Twin and family studies estimate the heritability of IOP to be 40-70%, and linkage studies for IOP have identified numerous loci. Mutations in MYOC can cause markedly elevated IOP and aggressive glaucoma often requiring surgical intervention. However, the majority of the genetic basis for raised IOP and glaucoma in populations is complex, and recent large genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified over 100 common variants that contribute to IOP variation. In combination, these loci are predictive for primary open-angle glaucoma in independent populations, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 76% for high-pressure primary open-angle glaucoma; this suggests the possibility of targeted screening in the future. Additionally, GWAS findings have identified important biological pathways underlying IOP regulation, including lymphangiogenesis and lipid metabolism, providing novel targets for new therapies. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Vision Science, Volume 7 is September 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihe Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
| | - Pirro Hysi
- Department of Ophthalmology, King's College London, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P Khawaja
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 2PD, UK;
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25
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Yemanyi F, Raghunathan V. Lysophosphatidic Acid and IL-6 Trans-signaling Interact via YAP/TAZ and STAT3 Signaling Pathways in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:29. [PMID: 33216119 PMCID: PMC7683860 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.13.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL6R) are elevated in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). LPA and IL6 modulate in response to biomechanical stimuli and converge on similar fibrotic phenotypes. Thus, we determined whether LPA and IL6 trans-signaling (IL6/sIL6R) interact via Yes-associated protein (YAP)/Transcriptional coactivator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) or Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathways in human trabecular meshwork (hTM) cells. Methods Confluent primary hTM cells were serum starved for 24 hours, and treated with vehicle, LPA (20 µM), IL6 (100 ng/mL)/sIL6R (200 ng/mL), or both (LPA + IL6/sIL6R) for 24 hours, with or without a YAP inhibitor (verteporfin; 2 µM) or STAT3 inhibitor (2 µM). Expression of key receptors and ligands, signaling mediators, actomyosin machinery, cell contractility, and extracellular matrix (ECM) targets of both signaling pathways was determined by immunocytochemistry, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. Results LPA and IL6 trans-signaling coupling overexpressed/activated receptors and ligands, glycoprotein-130, IL6, and autotaxin; signaling mediators, YAP, TAZ, Pan-TEAD, and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3); actomyosin and contractile machinery components, myosin light chain 2 (MLC2), phosphorylated MLC2, rho-associated protein kinase 1, filamentous actin, and α-smooth muscle actin; and fibrotic ECM proteins, collagen I and IV, fibronectin, laminin, cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61, and connective tissue growth factor in hTM cells; mostly beyond LPA or IL6 trans-signaling alone. Verteporfin inhibited YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3, with concomitant abrogation of aforementioned fibrotic targets; the STAT3 inhibitor was only partially effective. Conclusions These data suggest synergistic crosstalk between LPA and IL6 trans-signaling, mediated by YAP, TAZ, and pSTAT3. By completely inhibiting these mediators, verteporfin may be more efficacious in ameliorating LPA and/or IL6 trans-signaling–induced ocular hypertensive phenotypes in hTM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Yemanyi
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
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26
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Schneider M, Pawlak R, Weber GR, Dillinger AE, Kuespert S, Iozzo RV, Quigley HA, Ohlmann A, Tamm ER, Fuchshofer R. A novel ocular function for decorin in the aqueous humor outflow. Matrix Biol 2021; 97:1-19. [PMID: 33582236 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Primary open-angle glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by degeneration of optic nerve axons, is a frequent cause of vision loss and blindness worldwide. Several randomized multicenter studies have identified intraocular pressure as the major risk factor for its development, caused by an increased outflow resistance to the aqueous humor within the trabecular meshwork. However, the molecular mechanism for increased outflow resistance in POAG has not been fully established. One of the proposed players is the pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2, which is found in higher amounts in the aqueous humor of patients with POAG. In this study we elucidated the role of decorin, a small leucine-rich proteoglycan and known antagonist of TGF-β, in the region of aqueous humor outflow tissue. Utilizing decorin deficient mice, we discovered that decorin modulated TGF-β signaling in the canonical outflow pathways and the lack of decorin in vivo caused an increase in intraocular pressure. Additionally, the Dcn-/- mice showed significant loss of optic nerve axons and morphological changes in the glial lamina, typical features of glaucoma. Moreover, using human trabecular meshwork cells we discovered that soluble decorin attenuated TGF-β2 mediated synthesis and expression of typical downstream target genes including CCN2/CTGF, FN and COL IV. Finally, we found a negative reciprocal regulation of decorin and TGF-β, with a dramatic downregulation of decorin in the canonical outflow pathways of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. Collectively, our results indicate that decorin plays an important role in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma and offers novel perspectives in the treatment of this serious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Schneider
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany
| | - Ramona Pawlak
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany
| | - Gregor R Weber
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea E Dillinger
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany
| | - Sabrina Kuespert
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany
| | - Renato V Iozzo
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology and the Translational Cellular Oncology Program, Kimmel Cancer Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Harry A Quigley
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andreas Ohlmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, Regensburg D-93053, Germany.
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27
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Dillinger AE, Kuespert S, Froemel F, Tamm ER, Fuchshofer R. CCN2/CTGF promotor activity in the developing and adult mouse eye. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 384:625-641. [PMID: 33512643 PMCID: PMC8211604 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03332-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
CCN2/CTGF is a matricellular protein that is known to enhance transforming growth factor-β signaling and to induce a myofibroblast-like phenotype in a variety of cell types. Here, we investigated Ccn2/Ctgf promotor activity during development and in the adult mouse eye, using CTGFLacZ/+ mice in which the β-galactosidase reporter gene LacZ had been inserted into the open reading frame of Ccn2/Ctgf. Promotor activity was assessed by staining for β-galactosidase activity and by immunolabeling using antibodies against β-galactosidase. Co-immunostaining using antibodies against glutamine synthetase, glial fibrillary acidic protein, choline acetyltransferase, and CD31 was applied to identify specific cell types. Ccn2/Ctgf promotor activity was intense in neural crest-derived cells differentiating to corneal stroma and endothelium, and to the stroma of choroid, iris, ciliary body, and the trabecular meshwork during development. In the adult eye, a persistent and very strong promotor activity was present in the trabecular meshwork outflow pathways. In addition, endothelial cells of Schlemm’s canal, and of retinal and choroidal vessels, retinal astrocytes, Müller glia, and starburst amacrine cells were stained. Very strong promoter activity was seen in the astrocytes of the glial lamina at the optic nerve head. We conclude that CCN2/CTGF signaling is involved in the processes that govern neural crest morphogenesis during ocular development. In the adult eye, CCN2/CTGF likely plays an important role for the trabecular meshwork outflow pathways and the glial lamina of the optic nerve head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Dillinger
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Kuespert
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Froemel
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
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28
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Birgbauer E. Lysophosphatidic Acid Signalling in Nervous System Development and Function. Neuromolecular Med 2020; 23:68-85. [PMID: 33151452 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-020-08630-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
One class of molecules that are now coming to be recognized as essential for our understanding of the nervous system are the lysophospholipids. One of the major signaling lysophospholipids is lysophosphatidic acid, also known as LPA. LPA activates a variety of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) leading to a multitude of physiological responses. In this review, I describe our current understanding of the role of LPA and LPA receptor signaling in the development and function of the nervous system, especially the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, I highlight how aberrant LPA receptor signaling may underlie neuropathological conditions, with important clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Birgbauer
- Department of Biology, Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC, USA.
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29
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Kwon S, Kim SH, Khang D, Lee JY. Potential Therapeutic Usage of Nanomedicine for Glaucoma Treatment. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:5745-5765. [PMID: 32821099 PMCID: PMC7418176 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s254792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells, leading to irreversible blindness. Currently, intraocular pressure reduction is the only established treatment available for glaucoma. With this treatment, the progression of the disease can only be delayed and there is no recovery. In addition, the commercially available eye drops have the disadvantage of low compliance and short therapeutic time, while glaucoma surgery always has the risk of failure due to wound fibrosis. Nanotechnology can overcome the limitations of the current treatment through the encapsulation and conjugation of drugs used for lowering intraocular pressure and antifibrotic agents using biodegradable or biocompatible nanoparticles for the sustained release of the drugs to protect the damaged ocular cells. Furthermore, using nanotechnology, treatment can be administered in various forms, including eye drops, contact lens, and ocular inserts, according to the convenience of the patients. Despite the promising results of delaying the progression of glaucoma, the regeneration of damaged ocular cells, including trabecular meshwork and retinal ganglion cells, is another critical hurdle to overcome. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and Müller glia cells can secrete neurogenic factors that trigger the regeneration of associated cells, including trabecular meshwork and retinal ganglion cells. In conclusion, this review highlights the potential therapeutic applications of nanotechnology- and stem cell-based methods that can be employed for the protection and regeneration of ocular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Kwon
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, South Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University, College of Medicine, Incheon 21565, South Korea
| | - Dongwoo Khang
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, South Korea.,Department of Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Science & Technology (GAIHST), Gachon University, Incheon 21999, South Korea.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, South Korea
| | - Jong Yeon Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University, College of Medicine, Incheon 21565, South Korea
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Molecular taxonomy of human ocular outflow tissues defined by single-cell transcriptomics. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:12856-12867. [PMID: 32439707 PMCID: PMC7293718 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2001896117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular hypertension is the primary and only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Intraocular pressure is regulated homeostatically by resistance to aqueous humor outflow through an architecturally complex tissue, the conventional/trabecular pathway. In this study, we generated a comprehensive cell atlas of the human trabecular meshwork and neighboring tissues using single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified 12 distinct cell types and mapped region-specific expression of candidate genes. The utility of our atlas was demonstrated by mapping glaucoma-relevant genes to conventional outflow cell types. Our study provides a comprehensive molecular and cellular classification of tissue structures responsible for intraocular pressure homeostasis in health and dysregulation in disease. The conventional outflow pathway is a complex tissue responsible for maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) homeostasis. The coordinated effort of multiple cells with differing responsibilities ensures healthy outflow function and IOP maintenance. Dysfunction of one or more resident cell types results in ocular hypertension and risk for glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. In this study, single-cell RNA sequencing was performed to generate a comprehensive cell atlas of human conventional outflow tissues. We obtained expression profiles of 17,757 genes from 8,758 cells from eight eyes of human donors representing the outflow cell transcriptome. Upon clustering analysis, 12 distinct cell types were identified, and region-specific expression of candidate genes was mapped in human tissues. Significantly, we identified two distinct expression patterns (myofibroblast- and fibroblast-like) from cells located in the trabecular meshwork (TM), the primary structural component of the conventional outflow pathway. We also located Schwann cell and macrophage signatures in the TM. The second primary component structure, Schlemm’s canal, displayed a unique combination of lymphatic/blood vascular gene expression. Other expression clusters corresponded to cells from neighboring tissues, predominantly in the ciliary muscle/scleral spur, which together correspond to the uveoscleral outflow pathway. Importantly, the utility of our atlas was demonstrated by mapping glaucoma-relevant genes to outflow cell clusters. Our study provides a comprehensive molecular and cellular classification of conventional and unconventional outflow pathway structures responsible for IOP homeostasis.
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