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Brandhorst E, Xu L, Klimezak M, Goegan B, Hong H, Hammes HP, Specht A, Cambridge S. In Vivo Optogenetic Manipulation of Transgene Expression in Retinal Neurovasculature. JACS AU 2024; 4:2818-2825. [PMID: 39211617 PMCID: PMC11350597 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The retina is prone to developing pathological neovascularization, a leading cause of blindness in humans. Because excess neovascularization does not affect the entire retina, global inhibition treatment of angiogenesis critically interferes with healthy, unaffected retinal tissue. We therefore established an in vivo photoactivated gene expression paradigm which would allow light-mediated targeting of antiangiogenic genetic treatment only to affected retinal regions. We synthesized a "caged" (i.e., reversibly inhibited) photosensitive 4-hydroxytamoxifen analog. Molecular docking analyses validated its reduced transcriptional activity. Caged 4-hydroxytamoxifen was intravitreally injected into mice harboring the inducible Cre/lox system, with CreERT2 being expressed via the Tie2 promoter in the neurovasculature. Subsequent in vivo irradiation of eyes significantly induced retinal expression of a Cre-dependent transgene in retinal blood vessels. Using GFAP-CreERT2 mice, successful photoactivation was also achieved in eyes and also in ex vivo brain slices for validation of the approach. This highlights the possibility of light-mediated gene therapies specific for the retina, a key first step in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Brandhorst
- Fifth Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Liang Xu
- Division of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, Arkansas 72079, United States
| | - Maxime Klimezak
- Laboratoire de Chémo-Biologie Synthétique et Thérapeutique, Equipe Nanoparticule Intelligentes, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, CBST UMR 7199, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Bastien Goegan
- Laboratoire de Chémo-Biologie Synthétique et Thérapeutique, Equipe Nanoparticule Intelligentes, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, CBST UMR 7199, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Huixiao Hong
- Division of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 3900 NCTR Road, Jefferson, Arkansas 72079, United States
| | - Hans-Peter Hammes
- Fifth Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexandre Specht
- Laboratoire de Chémo-Biologie Synthétique et Thérapeutique, Equipe Nanoparticule Intelligentes, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, CBST UMR 7199, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Sidney Cambridge
- Dr. Senckenberg Anatomy, Anatomy II, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Health and Medical University Potsdam, 14471 Potsdam, Germany
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Liu X, Zhou Q, Meng J, Zuo H, Li R, Zhang R, Lu H, Zhang Z, Li H, Zeng S, Tian M, Wang H, Hu K, Li N, Mao L, Hou S. Autophagy-mediated activation of the AIM2 inflammasome enhances M1 polarization of microglia and exacerbates retinal neovascularization. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e668. [PMID: 39081514 PMCID: PMC11286542 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.668] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a retinal neovascularization (RNV) disease that is characterized by abnormal blood vessel development in the retina. Importantly, the etiology of ROP remains understudied. We re-analyzed previously published single-cell data and discovered a strong correlation between microglia and RNV diseases, particularly ROP. Subsequently, we found that reactive oxygen species reduced autophagy-dependent protein degradation of absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) in hypoxic BV2 cells, leading to increased AIM2 protein accumulation. Furthermore, we engineered AIM2 knockout mice and observed that the RNV was significantly reduced compared to wild-type mice. In vitro vascular function assays also demonstrated diminished angiogenic capabilities following AIM2 knockdown in hypoxic BV2 cells. Mechanistically, AIM2 enhanced the M1-type polarization of microglia via the ASC/CASP1/IL-1β pathway, resulting in RNV. Notably, the administration of recombinant protein IL-1β exacerbated angiogenesis, while its inhibition ameliorated the condition. Taken together, our study provides a novel therapeutic target for ROP and offers insight into the interaction between pyroptosis and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianyang Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Qian Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Jiayu Meng
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene StudySichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Hangjia Zuo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Ruonan Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of OphthalmologyQilu HospitalCheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Huiping Lu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Zhi Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Hongshun Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Shuhao Zeng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Meng Tian
- Beijing Institute of OphthalmologyBeijing Tongren Eye CenterBeijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key LaboratoryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Hong Wang
- Beijing Institute of OphthalmologyBeijing Tongren Eye CenterBeijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key LaboratoryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Ke Hu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyChongqingChina
| | - Na Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Liming Mao
- Department of ImmunologySchool of MedicineNantong UniversityNantongChina
| | - Shengping Hou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
- Beijing Institute of OphthalmologyBeijing Tongren Eye CenterBeijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key LaboratoryBeijing Tongren HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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Cheng S, Zhang S, Huang M, Liu Y, Zou X, Chen X, Zhang Z. Treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs: progress from mechanisms to clinical applications. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1411278. [PMID: 39099595 PMCID: PMC11294244 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1411278] [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: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nARMD) is an important cause of visual impairment and blindness in the elderly, with choroidal neovascularization in the macula as the main pathological feature. The onset of nARMD is closely related to factors including age, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an important factor contributing to nARMD as well as choroidal neovascularization and retinal leakage formation. At present, anti-VEGF therapy is the only treatment that improves vision and halts disease progression in most patients, making anti-VEGF drugs a landmark development for nARMD treatment. Although intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF drugs has become the first-line treatment for nARMD, this treatment has many shortcomings including repeated injections, poor or no response in some patients, and complications such as retinal fibrosis. As a result, several new anti-VEGF drugs are being developed. This review provides a discussion of these new anti-VEGF drugs for the treatment of nARMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoming Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zuhai Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
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Xu X, Han N, Zhao F, Fan R, Guo Q, Han X, Liu Y, Luo G. Inefficacy of anti-VEGF therapy reflected in VEGF-mediated photoreceptor degeneration. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102176. [PMID: 38689803 PMCID: PMC11059333 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Retinal neovascularization (RNV) is primarily driven by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, current anti-VEGF therapies are limited by short half-lives and repeated injections, which reduce patient quality of life and increase medical risks. Additionally, not all patients benefit from anti-VEGF monotherapy, and some problems, such as unsatisfactory vision recovery, persist after long-term treatment. In this study, we constructed a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV), AAV2-SPLTH, which encodes an anti-VEGF antibody similar to bevacizumab, and assessed its effects in a doxycycline-induced Tet-opsin-VEGFA mouse model of RNV. AAV2-SPLTH effectively inhibited retinal leakage, RNV progression, and photoreceptor apoptosis in a Tet-opsin-VEGF mouse model. However, proteomic sequencing showed that AAV2-SPLTH failed to rescue the expression of phototransduction-related genes, which corresponded to reduced photoreceptor cell numbers. This study suggests that anti-VEGF monotherapy can significantly inhibit RNV to some extent but may not be enough to save visual function in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ni Han
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Fangkun Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110005, China
| | - Ruoyue Fan
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Qingguo Guo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xuefei Han
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Guangzuo Luo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Bionce Biotechnology, Co., Ltd, Nanjing 210061, China
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Maluleke KD, Ntimana CB, Mashaba RG, Seakamela KP, Maimela E. Associated factors of diabetic retinopathy in type 1 and 2 diabetes in Limpopo province in South Africa. FRONTIERS IN CLINICAL DIABETES AND HEALTHCARE 2024; 5:1319840. [PMID: 38770017 PMCID: PMC11104328 DOI: 10.3389/fcdhc.2024.1319840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the major cause of vision impairment or blindness in individuals who have diabetes. It has accounted for 2.6% of all cases of blindness, and 1.9% of all cases of vision impairments globally. There is a lack of data on the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and its associated factors amongst diabetic rural populations. Hence, the current study aimed to determine factors associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR) among diabetes mellitus (DM) patients undergoing diabetic therapy. Methods The study was cross-sectional in design and the participants were selected using convenient sampling. STATA version 15 software was used for data analysis. Chi-square was used to compare proportions. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between DR and associated risk factors. Results The prevalence of DR was 35.3%, of which 32% were mild and 3.4% were moderate non-proliferative DR (NPDR). Females were more unemployed than males (32.1% versus 16.8%, p=0.0058). Males were found to drink alcohol (21.8% versus 1.9%, p<0.001) and smoke cigarettes (4% versus 0.3%, p=0.0034) more than females. Being aged ≥ 55 years (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6-4.4), with matric qualification (OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4-1.0); employed (OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.2-1.6); having high systolic blood pressure (OR=1.4, 95%CI=1.1-1.7) were the independent determinants of DR. Conclusions The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was 34%. DR was determined by high systolic blood pressure, old age, and employment. Although not statistically significant, gender, hyperglycemic state, poor glycemic control, smoking, and increased body mass index (BMI) were associated with increased risk of developing DR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cairo Bruce Ntimana
- Dikgale Mamabolo Mothiba (DIMAMO) Population Health Research Centre, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, South Africa
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Antioxidant Phytochemicals as Potential Therapy for Diabetic Complications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12010123. [PMID: 36670985 PMCID: PMC9855127 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of diabetes continues to increase partly due to rapid urbanization and an increase in the aging population. Consequently, this is associated with a parallel increase in the prevalence of diabetic vascular complications which significantly worsen the burden of diabetes. For these diabetic vascular complications, there is still an unmet need for safe and effective alternative/adjuvant therapeutic interventions. There is also an increasing urge for therapeutic options to come from natural products such as plants. Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress is central to the development of diabetes and diabetic complications. Furthermore, oxidative stress-induced inflammation and insulin resistance are central to endothelial damage and the progression of diabetic complications. Human and animal studies have shown that polyphenols could reduce oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and prevent diabetic complications including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Part of the therapeutic effects of polyphenols is attributed to their modulatory effect on endogenous antioxidant systems. This review attempts to summarize the established effects of polyphenols on endogenous antioxidant systems from the literature. Moreover, potential therapeutic strategies for harnessing the potential benefits of polyphenols for diabetic vascular complications are also discussed.
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Xu M, Fan R, Fan X, Shao Y, Li X. Progress and Challenges of Anti-VEGF Agents and Their Sustained-Release Strategies for Retinal Angiogenesis. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:3241-3262. [PMID: 36172053 PMCID: PMC9512290 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s383101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the treatment for ocular neovascular diseases, including diabetic macular edema (DME) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), mainly involves repeated intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs. Although it can preserve vision, repeated injections are an invasive treatment modality, leading to serious complications and reducing patient adherence to treatment. To reduce the frequency of administration, prolong the time of drug action, and avoid repeated intravitreal injections, the combination of sustained-release materials with anti-VEGF drug therapy has become an emphasis in ophthalmology. In this review, we highlight the current state of anti-VEGF technology, its challenges, and the sustained-release strategies under investigation or being used in clinical practice. Both continuous release and considerable therapeutic effects can be achieved by encapsulating anti-VEGF drugs in sustained-release materials to minimize the number of intravitreal injections. At present, two sustained-release materials are being tested in clinical research, and although basic research shows the strong therapeutic application prospects of extended-release drugs, its challenges mainly involve the discrepancy between the release rates in vitro and the efficiency of the drugs in vivo. Briefly, sustained release of anti-VEGF agents is an advantageous strategy for treating retinal angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manhong Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruiyan Fan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoe Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jincheng People’s Hospital, Jincheng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Shao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaorong Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Xiaorong Li; Yan Shao, No. 251 Fukang Road, Nankai Distinct, Tianjin, 300384, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 186 2281 8042; +86 186 2281 8042, Fax +86 022-86428777, Email ;
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Lv W, Chen W, Huang S, Xu Y, Liang JJ, Zheng Y, Chen S, Chen SL, Ng TK, Chen H. Reduction of Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization in Mice With Erythropoietin RNA Interference. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:1. [PMID: 35913417 PMCID: PMC9351596 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.8.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pathological involvement of erythropoietin (EPO) in experimental choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and its association with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) in the Chinese population. METHODS Treatment effect of recombinant EPO protein were assessed by human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation, migration, and tube formation, and ex vivo choroid-sprouting ability. The effect of intravitreal injection of Epo siRNA against neovascularization was evaluated in the laser-induced CNV mouse model. In addition, the association of EPO variants with neovascular AMD and PCV was determined. RESULTS Exogenous supplementation of EPO significantly enhanced the migration and tube formation of HUVECs and promoted ex vivo choroid sprouting in mouse retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choroid-sclera complex culture. In the experimental CNV mouse model, Epo expression was found to be significantly upregulated by 3.5-folds in RPE-choroid-sclera complex at day 10 after laser induction as compared to the baseline. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that Epo was mainly expressed around the vascular endothelial cells in the RPE-choroid-sclera complex. Intravitreal injection of siRNA targeting Epo reduced 40% Epo expression and 40% CNV lesion areas as compared to the scramble control. However, EPO variants were not associated with neovascular AMD nor PCV in the Chinese population. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the promotion of human endothelial cell tube formation in vitro and choroid sprouting ex vivo by EPO, and the reduction of laser-induced CNV in vivo by Epo RNA interference. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE Targeting EPO could be a potential additional treatment for CNV-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Lv
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaofen Huang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanxuan Xu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia-Jian Liang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuqian Zheng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaowan Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shao-Lang Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Haoyu Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
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Hwang SJ, Ahn BJ, Shin MW, Song YS, Choi Y, Oh GT, Kim KW, Lee HJ. miR-125a-5p attenuates macrophage-mediated vascular dysfunction by targeting Ninjurin1. Cell Death Differ 2022; 29:1199-1210. [PMID: 34974535 PMCID: PMC9177769 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-021-00911-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ninjurin1 (Ninj1), an adhesion molecule, regulates macrophage function in hyaloid regression, multiple sclerosis, and atherosclerosis. However, its biological relevance and the mechanism underlying its function in vascular network integrity have not been studied. In this study, we investigated the role of Ninj1 in physiological (postnatal vessel formation) and pathological (endotoxin-mediated inflammation and diabetes) conditions and developed a strategy to regulate Ninj1 using specific micro (mi)RNAs under pathological conditions. Ninj1-deficient mice exhibited decreased hyaloid regression, tip cell formation, retinal vascularized area, recruitment of macrophages, and endothelial apoptosis during postnatal development, resulting in delayed formation of the vascular network. Five putative miRNAs targeting Ninj1 were selected using the miRanda algorithm and comparison of expression patterns. Among them, miR-125a-5p showed a profound inhibitory effect on Ninj1 expression, and miR-125a-5p mimic suppressed the cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix adhesion of macrophages and expression of pro-inflammatory factors mediated by Ninj1. Furthermore, miR-125a-5p mimic inhibited the recruitment of macrophages into inflamed retinas in endotoxin-induced inflammation and streptozotocin-induced diabetes in vivo. In particular, miR-125a-5p mimic significantly attenuated vascular leakage in diabetic retinopathy. Taken together, these findings suggest that Ninj1 plays a pivotal role in macrophage-mediated vascular integrity and that miR-125a-5p acts as a novel regulator of Ninj1 in the management of inflammatory diseases and diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jung Hwang
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, South Korea
- College of Pharmacy, Inje University, 607 Obang-dong, Gimhae, Gyungnam, 621-749, South Korea
| | - Bum Ju Ahn
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Min-Wook Shin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Ye-Seul Song
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, South Korea
| | - Youngbin Choi
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, South Korea
| | - Goo Taeg Oh
- Immune and Vascular Cell Network Research Center, National Creative Initiatives, Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Kyu-Won Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Hyo-Jong Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, South Korea.
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Zhang J, Liu Z, Wu H, Chen X, Hu Q, Li X, Luo L, Ye S, Ye J. Irisin Attenuates Pathological Neovascularization in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:21. [PMID: 35737379 PMCID: PMC9233294 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.6.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Abnormal angiogenesis is a defining feature in a couple of ocular neovascular diseases. The application of anti-VEGFA therapy has achieved certain benefits in the clinic, accompanying side effects and poor responsiveness in many patients. The present study investigated the role of irisin in retinal neovascularization. Methods Western blot and quantitative PCR were used to determine irisin expression in the oxygen-induced retinopathy mice model. The pathological angiogenesis and inflammation index were examined after irisin administration. Primary retinal astrocytes were cultured and analyzed for VEGFA expression in vitro. Astrocyte-conditioned medium was collected for transwell assay and tube formation assay in human microvascular endothelial cells-1. Results Irisin was downregulated in the oxygen-induced retinopathy mice retinae. Additional irisin attenuated pathological angiogenesis, inflammation, and apoptosis in vivo. In vitro, irisin decreased astrocyte VEGFA production, and the conditioned medium suppressed human microvascular endothelial cells-1 migration. Last, irisin inhibited hypoxia-inducible factor-2α, nuclear factor-κB, and pNF-κB (Phospho-Nuclear Factor-κB) expression. Conclusions Irisin mitigates retinal pathological angiogenesis. Chinese Abstract
目的:异常的血管生成是新生血管性眼病的显著特征。抗血管内皮生长因子A的治疗在临床上取得了一定的效果, 然而同时伴随着不可避免的副作用和不良反应。本研究旨在探讨irisin在视网膜病理性新生血管形成中的作用。
方法:采用免疫印迹和qPCR检测氧诱导视网膜病变小鼠模型中irisin的表达。外源性给予irisin后, 检测病理性血管生成和炎症的相关指标。为了研究irisin在体外的作用, 我们培养了原代视网膜星形胶质细胞, 检测缺氧后VEGFA的表达, 并收集星形胶质细胞的条件培养基用于人微血管内皮细胞-1(HMEC-1)的迁移和管腔形成实验。
结果:irisin在氧诱导视网膜病变小鼠视网膜中下调。外源性加入irisin可抑制病理性血管生成、炎症和凋亡。在体外, irisin减少星形胶质细胞中VEGFA的生成, 其处理过的星形胶质细胞条件培养基可以抑制人微血管内皮细胞-1的迁移。最后, 我们发现irisin可以降低HIF-2α、NF-κB和pNF-κB的表达水平。
结论:irisin可减轻视网膜病理性血管生成。
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieqiong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhifei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haoqian Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiumei Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linlin Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shiyang Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Occupational Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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11
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Lv D, Chen D, Wang Z, Cui Z, Ma JH, Ji S, Chen J, Tang S. COL10A1 is a novel factor in the development of choroidal neovascularization. Microvasc Res 2022; 139:104239. [PMID: 34520774 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2021.104239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
With the dramatic rise in the aging population, researching age-related macular degeneration (AMD), especially the severe form neovascular AMD (nAMD), has become more important than ever. In this study, we found that collagen type X was increased in retina-choroid tissue of mice with laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) based on immunohistofluorescence. RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses were performed to compare the retina-choroid tissue complex of the CNV mouse model to normal controls. Collagen type X alpha 1 chain (Col10a1) was among the most significantly upregulated genes, and the results were validated with an animal model at the mRNA and protein levels by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting, respectively. COL10A1 was also upregulated in human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), RPE19 cells and RF/6A cells under hypoxic conditions. Next, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to study the effect of COL10A1 on neovascularization. siRNA knockdown of COL10A1 suppressed the proliferation and tube formation ability of HRMECs under hypoxic conditions. Snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAIL1) and angiopoietin-2 (ANGPT2) were downregulated in COL10A1 knockdown HRMECs under hypoxic conditions and thus were potential downstream genes. Significant decreases in CNV leakage and CNV lesion area, as assessed by fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and immunofluorescence of choroidal flat mounts, respectively, were observed in a mouse model intravitreally injected with anti-collagen X monoclonal antibody (mAb) compared to the controls. In conclusion, COL10A1 promotes CNV formation and may represent a new candidate target for the treatment and diagnosis of nAMD and other neovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Lv
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Zhijie Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Jacey Hongjie Ma
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | | | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Ophthalmology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Martinez-Alejo JM, Baiza-Duran LM, Quintana-Hau JDD. Novel therapies for proliferative retinopathies. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223221140395. [DOI: 10.1177/20406223221140395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferative retinopathies, such as neovascular age–related macular degeneration and proliferative diabetic retinopathy, are a special health issue due to their contribution to irreversible blindness. Although the promoting conditions and physiopathology of proliferative retinopathies are different, these feature a highly detrimental angiogenesis driven by the overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This article describes the mechanism of action of ocular antiangiogenic therapies currently found in clinical development. Systems classify accordingly as (a) novel anti-VEGF systems, (b) molecules targeting non-VEGF pathways, and (c) gene therapies. Whereas most therapies are designed to neutralize VEGF, there is a significant set of products with diverse complexity and mechanism of action. Anti-VEGF therapies are still the most studied approach to tackle angiogenesis. Therapies targeting non-VEGF pathways, however, are highlighted because they could be an option for patients nonresponsive to anti-VEGF therapies. Finally, gene therapy is a promissory technology platform but still is subject to demonstrate safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan de Dios Quintana-Hau
- Centro de Investigación Sophia, Laboratorios Sophia SA de CV, Paseo del Valle 4896, Technology Park, 45010 Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
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13
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Qi X, Ricart K, Ahmed KA, Patel RP, Boulton ME. Supplemental nitrite increases choroidal neovascularization in mice. Nitric Oxide 2021; 117:7-15. [PMID: 34537345 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Low doses of nitrite, close to physiological levels, increase blood flow in normal and ischemic tissues through a nitric oxide (NO) dependent mechanism. Given that nitrite therapy and dietary supplementation with vegetables high in nitrate (e.g. beets) are gaining popularity we decided to determine if low doses of nitrite impact the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), a key feature of wet age related macular degeneration (AMD). Sodium nitrite (at 50 mg/L, 150 mg/L, and 300 mg/L), nitrate (1 g/L) or water alone were provided in the drinking water of C57BL/6 J mice aged 2 or 12 months. Mice were allowed to drink ad libitum for 1 week at which time laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (L-CNV) was induced. The mice continued to drink the supplemented water ad libitum for a further 14 days at which point optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed to determine the volume of the CNV lesion. Blood was drawn to determine nitrite and nitrate levels and eyes taken for histology. CNV volume was 2.86 × 107 μm3 (±0.4 × 107) in young mice on water alone but CNV volume more than doubled to >6.9 × 107 μm3 (±0.8 × 107) in mice receiving 300 mg/L nitrite or 7.34 × 107 μm3 (±1.4 × 107) in 1 g/L nitrate (p < 0.01). A similar trend was observed in older mice. CNV volume was 5.3 × 107 μm3 (±0.5 × 107) in older mice on water alone but CNV volume almost doubled to approximately 9.3 × 107 μm3 (±1.1 × 107) in mice receiving 300 mg/L nitrite or 8.7 × 107 μm3 (±0.9 × 107) 1 g/L nitrate (p < 0.01). Plasma nitrite levels were highest in young mice receiving 150 mg/L in the drinking water with no changes in plasma nitrate observed. In older mice, drinking water nitrite did not significantly change plasma nitrite, but plasma nitrate was increased. Plasma nitrate was elevated in both young and old mice provided with nitrate supplemented drinking water. Our data demonstrate that the CNV lesion is larger in older mice compared to young and that therapeutic levels of oral nitrite increase the volume of CNV lesions in both young and older mice. Therapeutic nitrite or nitrate supplementation should be used with caution in the elderly population prone to CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Karina Ricart
- Department of Pathology and Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Khandaker A Ahmed
- Department of Pathology and Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Rakesh P Patel
- Department of Pathology and Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA.
| | - Michael E Boulton
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA.
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14
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Bucolo C, Barbieri A, Viganò I, Marchesi N, Bandello F, Drago F, Govoni S, Zerbini G, Pascale A. Short-and Long-Term Expression of Vegf: A Temporal Regulation of a Key Factor in Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:707909. [PMID: 34489701 PMCID: PMC8418071 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.707909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) at different phases of diabetic retinopathy (DR), we assessed the retinal protein expression of VEGF-A164 (corresponding to the VEGF165 isoform present in humans, which is the predominant member implicated in vascular hyperpermeability and proliferation), HIF-1α and PKCβ/HuR pathway in Ins2Akita (diabetic) mice at different ages. We used C57BL6J mice (WT) at different ages as control. Retina status, in terms of tissue morphology and neovascularization, was monitored in vivo at different time points by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography (FA), respectively. The results showed that VEGF-A164 protein expression increased along time to become significantly elevated (p < 0.05) at 9 and 46 weeks of age compared to WT mice. The HIF-1α protein level was significantly (p < 0.05) increased at 9 weeks of age, while PKCβII and HuR protein levels were increased at 46 weeks of age compared to WT mice. The thickness of retinal nerve fiber layer as measured by OCT was decreased in Ins2Akita mice at 9 and 46 weeks of age, while no difference in the retinal vasculature were observed by FA. The present findings show that the retina of the diabetic Ins2Akita mice, as expected for mice, does not develop proliferative retinopathy even after 46 weeks. However, diabetic Ins2Akita mice recapitulate the same evolution of patients with DR in terms of both retinal neurodegeneration and pro-angiogenic shift, this latter indicated by the progressive protein expression of the pro-angiogenic isoform VEGF-A164, which can be sustained by the PKCβII/HuR pathway acting at post-transcriptional level. In agreement with this last concept, this rise in VEGF-A164 protein is not paralleled by an increment of the corresponding transcript. Nevertheless, the observed increase in HIF-1α at 9 weeks indicates that this transcription factor may favor, in the early phase of the disease, the transcription of other isoforms, possibly neuroprotective, in the attempt to counteract the neurodegenerative effects of VEGF-A164. The time-dependent VEGF-A164 expression in the retina of diabetic Ins2Akita mice suggests that pharmacological intervention in DR might be chosen, among other reasons, on the basis of the specific stages of the pathology in order to pursue the best clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Annalisa Barbieri
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Viganò
- Complications of Diabetes Unit, Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Marchesi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Zerbini
- Complications of Diabetes Unit, Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Pascale
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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15
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Adak S, Magdalene D, Deshmukh S, Das D, Jaganathan BG. A Review on Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1154-1173. [PMID: 33410097 PMCID: PMC7787584 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-10090-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have been studied extensively for the treatment of several retinal diseases. The therapeutic potential of MSCs lies in its ability to differentiate into multiple lineages and secretome enriched with immunomodulatory, anti-angiogenic and neurotrophic factors. Several studies have reported the role of MSCs in repair and regeneration of the damaged retina where the secreted factors from MSCs prevent retinal degeneration, improve retinal morphology and function. MSCs also donate mitochondria to rescue the function of retinal cells and exosomes secreted by MSCs were found to have anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Based on several promising results obtained from the preclinical studies, several clinical trials were initiated to explore the potential advantages of MSCs for the treatment of retinal diseases. This review summarizes the various properties of MSCs that help to repair and restore the damaged retinal cells and its potential for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjucta Adak
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Damaris Magdalene
- Department of Strabismus, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya Hospital, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Saurabh Deshmukh
- Department of Strabismus, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya Hospital, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Dipankar Das
- Department of Pathology, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya Hospital, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Bithiah Grace Jaganathan
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India.
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16
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Causes and Five-Year Proportion of New Irreversible Visual Impairment in Jinshan District, Shanghai, from 2009-2018. J Ophthalmol 2021; 2021:8873283. [PMID: 34367689 PMCID: PMC8337108 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8873283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To describe the age distribution and main causes of new registered irreversible visual impairment (VI) and to compare the five-year proportion of VI in Jinshan district, Shanghai, from 2009 to 2018. Methods The new irreversible VI data were collected in the registry system from the Disabled Persons' Federation in Jinshan district from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2018. Age, gender, and causes of VI were included, and the 5-year proportion of VI was calculated. Results The peak occurrence of blindness occurred in the 50–59 yrs group in 2009–2013 and in the ≥70 yrs group in 2014–2018. The peak occurrence of low vision occurred in the 40–49 yrs group in 2009–2013 and in the 50–59 yrs group in 2014–2018. Myopic macular degeneration (MMD, 15.5%), diabetic retinopathy (DR, 14.3%), and other optic nerve atrophy (ONA, 14.3%) were the three leading causes of blindness in 2009-2013, whereas MMD (21.3%), age-related macular degeneration (AMD, 19.6%), ONA (14.9%) were the three leading causes of blindness in 2014–2018. MMD (39.2%), DR (9.6%), ONA (8.8%) were the three leading causes of low vision in 2009–2013, whereas MMD (38.7%), AMD (23.3%), ONA (7.4%) were the three leading causes of low vision in 2014–2018. The proportions of blindness and low vision caused by AMD were higher in 2014–2018 than those in 2009–2013 (P=0.034 and P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion The present study demonstrated an increasing trend in the number of irreversibly visually impaired individuals from 2009 to 2018. More attention should be paid to people with high myopia and old age.
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17
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Chen Z, Chen K, Li J, Shen J, Xu W. Elevated Levels of Endoglin, Endostatin, FGF-α, HGF, and Thrombospondin-2 in Aqueous Humor of nAMD Patients. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:1092-1098. [PMID: 33793358 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2020.1869785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: to explore the aqueous cytokine profiles in nAMD patients before and after conbercept therapy.Methods: aqueous levels of 17 cytokines were detected in 20 treatment-naïve nAMD eyes and 20 age- and sex-matched age-related cataract (ARC) eyes. All of the nAMD patients received three intravitreal injections of conbercept. The central macular thickness (CMT) and maximum retinal thickness-3 mm (MRT-3 mm) were measured by SD-OCT. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FA) was used to measure the greatest linear diameter (GLD).Results: Aqueous endoglin, endostatin, FGF-α, HGF, and thrombospondin-2 levels were significantly higher in the nAMD group than those in the ARC group, whether before or after two conbercept injections. In the nAMD group, baseline thrombospondin-2 was positively correlated with GLD. Baseline FGF-α, thrombospondin-2, and VEGF-A were positively correlated with MRT-3 mm. After two conbercept injections, endostatin levels were positively correlated with VEGF-A.Conclusions: Endoglin, endostatin, FGF-α, HGF, and thrombospondin-2 may participate in the pathogenesis of nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Chen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Kailin Chen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China.,Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinyu Li
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Junhui Shen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Wen Xu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, P. R. China
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18
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Zhu S, Wang H, Zhang Z, Ma M, Zheng Z, Xu X, Sun T. IGFBP‑rP1‑silencing promotes hypoxia‑induced angiogenic potential of choroidal endothelial cells via the RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4837-4847. [PMID: 33173998 PMCID: PMC7646924 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBP-rP1) has been reported to have various functions in different cellular contexts. Our previous investigation discovered that IGFBP-rP1 inhibited retinal angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the pro-angiogenic effect of VEGF and downregulating VEGF expression. Recently, IGFBP-rP1 was confirmed to be downregulated in the aqueous humor of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration compared with controls; however, its specific role remains unknown. The present study applied the technique of gene silencing, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blotting, cell viability assays, cell motility assays and tube formation assays. Chemical hypoxic conditions and choroidal endothelial (RF/6A) cells were used to explore the effect of IGFBP-rP1-silencing on the phenotype activation of RF/6A cells under hypoxic conditions and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. siRNA achieved IGFBP-rP1-silencing in RF/6A cells without cytotoxicity. IGFBP-rP1-silencing significantly restored the viability of RF/6A cells in hypoxia and enhanced hypoxia-induced migration and capillary-like tube formation of RF/6A cells. Furthermore, IGFBP-rP1-silencing significantly upregulated the expression of B-RAF, phosphorylated (p)-MEK, p-ERK and VEGF in RF/6A cells under hypoxic conditions; however, these upregulations were inhibited by exogenous IGFBP-rP1. These data indicated that silencing IGFBP-rP1 expression in RF/6A cells effectively promoted the hypoxia-induced angiogenic potential of choroidal endothelial cells by upregulating RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway activation and VEGF expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Mingming Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Xun Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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19
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Chen K, Xu W, Zheng J, Shen Y, Ma J, Chen Z. Angiogenin, FGF-α, and IL-36β have higher expression levels in aqueous humor of nAMD patients in comparison to cataract patients. BMC Ophthalmol 2020; 20:431. [PMID: 33115414 PMCID: PMC7592502 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-020-01684-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous cytokines have been proven to participate in the pathogenesis of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). The present study aimed to investigate the aqueous humor cytokine expression profile in nAMD patients before and after ranibizumab treatments in comparison to cataract patients. Methods This prospective study included 20 treatment-naïve nAMD eyes of 20 patients who received three consecutive monthly injections of ranibizumab. Aqueous humor samples were collected before the first (baseline), second (1 month later), and third (2 months later) injections. Controls were 20 age- and gender-matched cataract patients without any other ocular disease. The aqueous concentrations of 28 cytokines were measured using a multiplex bead assay. Central macular thickness (CMT) and maximum retinal thickness (MRT)-3 mm were measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The greatest linear diameter (GLD) was measured by fundus fluorescein angiography (FA). Results Three cytokines in aqueous humor, including angiogenin, interleukin-36β (IL-36β), and fibroblast growth factor-acidic (FGF-α) were significantly higher in nAMD patients in comparison to cataract patients, both before and after two consecutive monthly ranibizumab injections. Compared with the nAMD patients’ basal levels, two consecutive monthly ranibizumab injections effectively reduced the aqueous concentrations of VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF), as well as the values of CMT, MRT-3 mm, and GLD. Conclusions Angiogenin, IL-36β, and FGF-α have higher expression levels in nAMD patients in comparison to cataract patients, both before and after 2 months of ranibizumab therapy. These cytokines may have correlations with the pathogenesis of nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailin Chen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China.,Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Wen Xu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Jiao Zheng
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Ningbo Women and Children's Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yupeng Shen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Jian Ma
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China
| | - Zhiqing Chen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, P. R. China.
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20
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Quan Y, Zhang QY, Lv BM, Xu RF, Zhang HY. Genome-wide pathogenesis interpretation using a heat diffusion-based systems genetics method and implications for gene function annotation. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1456. [PMID: 32869547 PMCID: PMC7549611 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genetics is best dedicated to interpreting pathogenesis and revealing gene functions. The past decade has witnessed unprecedented progress in genetics, particularly in genome‐wide identification of disorder variants through Genome‐Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Phenome‐Wide Association Studies (PheWAS). However, it is still a great challenge to use GWAS/PheWAS‐derived data to elucidate pathogenesis. Methods In this study, we used HotNet2, a heat diffusion‐based systems genetics algorithm, to calculate the networks for disease genes obtained from GWAS and PheWAS, with an attempt to get deeper insights into disease pathogenesis at a molecular level. Results Through HotNet2 calculation, significant networks for 202 (for GWAS) and 167 (for PheWAS) types of diseases were identified and evaluated, respectively. The GWAS‐derived disease networks exhibit a stronger biomedical relevance than PheWAS counterparts. Therefore, the GWAS‐derived networks were used for pathogenesis interpretation by integrating the accumulated biomedical information. As a result, the pathogenesis for 64 diseases was elucidated in terms of mutation‐caused abnormal transcriptional regulation, and 47 diseases were preliminarily interpreted in terms of mutation‐caused varied protein‐protein interactions. In addition, 3,802 genes (including 46 function‐unknown genes) were assigned with new functions by disease network information, some of which were validated through mice gene knockout experiments. Conclusions Systems genetics algorithm HotNet2 can efficiently establish genotype‐phenotype links at the level of biological networks. Compared with original GWAS/PheWAS results, HotNet2‐calculated disease‐gene associations have stronger biomedical significance, hence provide better interpretations for the pathogenesis of genome‐wide variants, and offer new insights into gene functions as well. These results are also helpful in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Quan
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qing-Ye Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bo-Min Lv
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui-Feng Xu
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hong-Yu Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Adjuvant Therapies in Diabetic Retinopathy as an Early Approach to Delay Its Progression: The Importance of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:3096470. [PMID: 32256949 PMCID: PMC7086452 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3096470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive disease induced by a sustained state of chronic hyperglycemia that can lead to several complications targeting highly metabolic cells. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a multifactorial microvascular complication of DM, with high prevalence, which can ultimately lead to visual impairment. The genesis of DR involves a complex variety of pathways such as oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, neurodegeneration, angiogenesis, lipid peroxidation, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, each possessing potential therapeutic biomarkers. A specific treatment has yet to be developed for early stages of DR since no management is given other than glycemic control until the proliferative stage develops, offering a poor visual prognosis to the patient. In this narrative review article, we evaluate different dietary regimens, such as the Mediterranean diet, Dietary Pattern to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and their functional foods, and low-calorie diets (LCDs). Nutraceuticals have also been assessed in DR on account of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic properties, which may have an important impact on the physiopathology of DR. These nutraceuticals have shown to lower reactive oxygen species (ROS), important inflammatory factors, cytokines, and endothelial damage biomarkers either as monotherapies or combined therapies or concomitantly with established diabetes management or nonconventional adjuvant drugs like topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
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The Inhibitory Effects of Gold Nanoparticles on VEGF-A-Induced Cell Migration in Choroid-Retina Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010109. [PMID: 31877924 PMCID: PMC6982177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is upregulated by hypoxia and is a crucial stimulator for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration and pathologic myopia, as well as retinal neovascularization in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Retinal and choroidal endothelial cells play key roles in the development of retinal and CNV, and subsequent fibrosis. At present, the effects of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on the VEGF-induced choroid-retina endothelial (RF/6A) cells are still unknown. In our study, we investigated the effects of AuNPs on RF/6A cell viabilities and cell adhesion to fibronectin, a major ECM protein of fibrovascular membrane. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of AuNPs on RF/6A cell migration induced by VEGF and its signaling were studied. Methods: The cell viability assay was used to determine the viability of cells treated with AuNPs. The migration of RF/6A cells was assessed by the Transwell migration assay. The cell adhesion to fibronectin was examined by an adhesion assay. The VEGF-induced signaling pathways were determined by western blotting. Results: The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) viability assay revealed no cytotoxicity of AuNPs on RF/6A cells. AuNPs inhibited VEGF-induced RF/6A cell migration in a concentration-dependent manner but showed no significant effects on RF/6A cell adhesion to fibronectin. Inhibitory effects of AuNPs on VEGF-induced Akt/eNOS were found. Conclusions: These results suggest that AuNPs are an effective inhibitor of VEGF-induced RF/6A cell migration through the Akt/eNOS pathways, but they have no effects on their cell viabilities and cell adhesion to fibronectin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudiu T Supuran
- NEUROFARBA Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche e Nutraceutiche, Università degli Studi di Firenze , Firenze , Italy
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Supuran CT. Agents for the prevention and treatment of age-related macular degeneration and macular edema: a literature and patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2019; 29:761-767. [PMID: 31540558 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2019.1671353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Macular degeneration (MD) and macular edema (ME) are ophthalmologic diseases affecting an increasing number of the aging population. Until recently, there were few therapeutic options for both conditions but the last two decades saw important advances. Areas covered: This review summarizes the agents used for the treatment of age-related MD (AMD), which include verteporfin, for photodynamic therapy, and anti-VEGF agents, the aptamer pegaptanib, the monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) ranibizumab (Lucentis®) and bevacizumab (Avastin®) and the fusion protein aflibercept (Eylea®). All these drugs are effective only for the wet form of AMD, whereas for the dry form there is no treatment available. ME is, on the other hand, treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors. Recently, MAbs such as ranibizumab and bevacizumab were also shown to be effective for the management of the cystoid and diabetic ME. Expert opinion: There are important advances made in the field in the last years but longer-acting anti-VEGF agents or drugs with less ocular side effects are needed. Many such agents are in clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudiu T Supuran
- NEUROFARBA Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche e Nutraceutiche, Università degli Studi di Firenze , Firenze , Italy
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Ock S, Park S, Lee J, Kim J. RANKL blockade suppresses pathological angiogenesis and vascular leakage in ischemic retinopathy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 516:350-356. [PMID: 31208720 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) is a member of the TNF superfamily. RANKL increases endothelial permeability and induces angiogenesis, suggesting its critical roles in the vasculature. Despite the evidence implicating RANKL in vascular pathology, its role in ischemic retinopathy has not been previously reported. In this study, neonatal mice were exposed to 75% oxygen from postnatal day (P)7 to P12 to induce vaso-obliteration, and then returned to room air from P12 to P17, causing the retina to become hypoxic and inducing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, which produces pathological neovascularization. On P12, the mice received a single intravitreal injection of control IgG1 or RANK-Fc, and retinas were obtained at P17. On P17, RANKL was expressed strongly and selectively in the neovascular tufts (NVT) area. RANKL colocalized with αSMA or PDGFRβ in NVT. However, co-immunostaining revealed that CD31-positive areas were not the same as RANKL, which indicates that RANKL might be produced by retinal pericytes, not endothelial cells. Consistent with this finding, chemical hypoxia upregulated RANKL expression in cultured human retinal pericytes but not in endothelial cells. Treatment with RANK-Fc markedly reduced the NVT area compared to that in mice administered the IgG1 injection. In contrast, the central avascular region of RANKL-Fc retina was comparable to the controls. In addition, we assessed retinal vascular permeability using FITC-labeled dextran. RANK-Fc treated mice displayed decreased vascular leakages compared to those injected with IgG1. Our work supports the use of an RANKL blockade as a potential therapeutic approach against ischemic retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangmi Ock
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Park
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junyeop Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaetaek Kim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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