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Chiang B, Heng K, Jang K, Dalal R, Liao YJ, Myung D, Goldberg JL. Development of a novel SupraChoroidal-to-Optic-NervE (SCONE) drug delivery system. Drug Deliv 2024; 31:2379369. [PMID: 39010743 PMCID: PMC467098 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2024.2379369] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Targeted drug delivery to the optic nerve head may be useful in the preclinical study and later clinical management of optic neuropathies, however, there are no FDA-approved drug delivery systems to achieve this. The purpose of this work was to develop an optic nerve head drug delivery technique. METHODS Different strategies to approach the optic nerve head were investigated, including standard intravitreal and retroorbital injections. A novel SupraChoroidal-to-Optic-NervE (SCONE) delivery was optimized by creating a sclerotomy and introducing a catheter into the suprachoroidal space. Under direct visualization, the catheter was guided to the optic nerve head. India ink was injected. The suprachoroidal approach was performed in New Zealand White rabbit eyes in vivo (25 animals total). Parameters, including microneedle size and design, catheter design, and catheter tip angle, were optimized ex vivo and in vivo. RESULTS Out of the candidate optic nerve head approaches, intravitreal, retroorbital, and suprachoroidal approaches were able to localize India ink to within 2 mm of the optic nerve. The suprachoroidal approach was further investigated, and after optimization, was able to deposit India ink directly within the optic nerve head in up to 80% of attempts. In eyes with successful SCONE delivery, latency and amplitude of visual evoked potentials was not different than the naïve untreated eye. CONCLUSIONS SCONE delivery can be used for targeted drug delivery to the optic nerve head of rabbits without measurable toxicity measured anatomically or functionally. Successful development of this system may yield novel opportunities to study optic nerve head-specific drug delivery in animal models, and paradigm-shifting management strategies for treating optic neuropathies. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE Here we demonstrate data on a new method for targeted delivery to the optic nerve head, addressing a significant unmet need in therapeutics for optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce Chiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Kathleen Heng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kyeongwoo Jang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Roopa Dalal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - David Myung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Wood-Yang AJ, Gerberich BG, Prausnitz MR. Computational modelling of scleral photocrosslinking: from rat to minipig to human. J R Soc Interface 2024; 21:20240111. [PMID: 39081249 PMCID: PMC11289678 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2024.0111] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Selective scleral crosslinking has been proposed as a novel treatment to increase scleral stiffness to counteract biomechanical changes associated with glaucoma and high myopia. Scleral stiffening has been shown by transpupillary peripapillary scleral photocrosslinking in rats, where the photosensitizer, methylene blue (MB), was injected retrobulbarly and red light initiated crosslinking reactions with collagen. Here, we adapted a computational model previously developed to model this treatment in rat eyes to additionally model MB photocrosslinking in minipigs and humans. Increased tissue length and subsequent diffusion and light penetration limitations were found to be barriers to achieving the same extent of crosslinking as in rats. Per cent inspired O2, injected MB concentration and laser fluence were simultaneously varied to overcome these limitations and used to determine optimal combinations of treatment parameters in rats, minipigs and humans. Increasing these three treatment parameters simultaneously resulted in maximum crosslinking, except in rats, where the highest MB concentrations decreased crosslinking. Additionally, the kinetics and diffusion of photocrosslinking reaction intermediates and unproductive side products were modelled across space and time. The model provides a mechanistic understanding of MB photocrosslinking in scleral tissue and a basis for adapting and screening treatment parameters in larger animal models and, eventually, human eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J. Wood-Yang
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA30332, USA
| | - Brandon G. Gerberich
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA30332, USA
| | - Mark R. Prausnitz
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA30332, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA30332, USA
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Yasir ZH, Sharma R, Zakir SM. Scleral collagen cross linkage in progressive myopia. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:174-180. [PMID: 38153964 PMCID: PMC10941927 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1392_23] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
High myopia is often associated with local ectasia and scleral thinning. The progression of myopia depends upon scleral biochemical and biomechanical properties. Scleral thinning is associated with decreased collagen fiber diameter, defective collagen fibrillogenesis, and collagen cross-linking. Reversing these abnormalities may make the sclera tougher and might serve as a treatment option for myopic progression. Collagen cross-linking is a natural process in the cornea and sclera, which makes the structure stiff. Exogenous collagen cross-linkage is artificially induced with the help of external mediators by using light and dark methods. In this systematic review, we discussed existing literature available on the internet on current evidence-based applications of scleral collagen cross-linking (SXL) by using different interventions. In addition, we compared them in tabular form in terms of their technique, mechanisms, cytotoxicity, and the stage of transition from preclinical to clinical development. Furthermore, we discussed the in-vivo technique to evaluate the post-SXL scleral biomechanical property and outcome in the human eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziaul H Yasir
- Department of Ophthalmology, T. S. Misra Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- Department of Ophthalmology, T. S. Misra Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shaik M Zakir
- Department of Ophthalmology, J. N. Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Chen C, Wang Z, Xie S, Lu H, Wang Y, Xiong J, Nakao N, Igarashi-Yokoi T, Yoshida T, Uramoto K, Takahashi T, Sugisawa K, Kamoi K, Ohno-Matsui K. Characteristics and Prevalence of Staphyloma Edges at Different Ages in Highly Myopic Eyes. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:32. [PMID: 38236188 PMCID: PMC10807494 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.1.32] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of staphyloma edges in highly myopic eyes and how they progress. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using baseline data and a longitudinal study with follow-up data from 256 patients (447 eyes) with high myopia, with a mean (SD) follow-up of 3.79 (0.78) years. Participants were divided into four age groups: children (<13), youth (13-24), mature (25-59), and elderly (>60). Ultrawide-field swept-source optical coherence tomography was used to analyze staphyloma edges, which were divided into four areas: nasal to the optic disc (OD), superior to the macula, inferior to the macula, and temporal to the macula. Results Staphylomas were significantly more prevalent in the mature (42.49%) and the elderly (51.35%) groups than in the children (13%) and youth (9%) groups. Staphyloma edges were predominantly superior to the macula in the mature and elderly groups. In contrast, staphylomas were rare in children and youth, with their edges mainly located nasal to the OD. The edges of staphylomas located superior and temporal to the macula were more likely to be associated with myopic traction maculopathy. During the follow-up period, 11 new staphyloma edges developed primarily in the mature group (64%). Additionally, 12 edges had an increased degree of protrusion over time, with most cases occurring in the mature (75%) group. Conclusions The prevalence and location of staphyloma edges show significant variations depending on age. As time progresses, staphyloma edges manifest at distinct sites and increase their protrusion, potentially playing a role in the emergence of fundus complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changyu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ziye Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shiqi Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongshuang Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yining Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jianping Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noriko Nakao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tae Igarashi-Yokoi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kengo Uramoto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonari Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keigo Sugisawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koju Kamoi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoko Ohno-Matsui
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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Goyal V, Read AT, Brown DM, Brawer L, Bateh K, Hannon BG, Feola AJ, Ethier CR. Morphometric Analysis of Retinal Ganglion Cell Axons in Normal and Glaucomatous Brown Norway Rats Optic Nerves. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:8. [PMID: 36917118 PMCID: PMC10020949 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.3.8] [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: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose A reference atlas of optic nerve (ON) retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons could facilitate studies of neuro-ophthalmic diseases by detecting subtle RGC axonal changes. Here we construct an RGC axonal atlas for normotensive eyes in Brown Norway rats, widely used in glaucoma research, and also develop/evaluate several novel metrics of axonal damage in hypertensive eyes. Methods Light micrographs of entire ON cross-sections from hypertensive and normotensive eyes were processed through a deep learning-based algorithm, AxoNet2.0, to determine axonal morphological properties and were semiquantitatively scored using the Morrison grading scale (MGS) to provide a damage score independent of AxoNet2.0 outcomes. To construct atlases, ONs were conformally mapped onto an ON "template," and axonal morphometric data was computed for each region. We also developed damage metrics based on myelin morphometry. Results In normotensive eyes, average axon density was ∼0.3 axons/µm2 (i.e., ∼80,000 axons in an ON). We measured axoplasm diameter, eccentricity, cross-sectional area, and myelin g-ratio and thickness. Most morphological parameters exhibited a wide range of coefficients of variation (CoV); however, myelin thickness CoV was only ∼2% in normotensive eyes. In hypertensive eyes, increased myelin thickness correlated strongly with MGS (P < 0.0001). Conclusions We present the first comprehensive normative RGC axon morphometric atlas for Brown Norway rat eyes. We suggest objective, repeatable damage metrics based on RGC axon myelin thickness for hypertensive eyes. Translational Relevance These tools can evaluate regional changes in RGCs and overall levels of damage in glaucoma studies using Brown Norway rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidisha Goyal
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A. Thomas Read
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dillon M. Brown
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Luke Brawer
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Bateh
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bailey G. Hannon
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andrew J. Feola
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Healthcare System, Decatur, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C. Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Goyal V, Read AT, Ritch MD, Hannon BG, Rodriguez GS, Brown DM, Feola AJ, Hedberg-Buenz A, Cull GA, Reynaud J, Garvin MK, Anderson MG, Burgoyne CF, Ethier CR. AxoNet 2.0: A Deep Learning-Based Tool for Morphometric Analysis of Retinal Ganglion Cell Axons. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:9. [PMID: 36917117 PMCID: PMC10020950 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.3.9] [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: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Assessment of glaucomatous damage in animal models is facilitated by rapid and accurate quantification of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axonal loss and morphologic change. However, manual assessment is extremely time- and labor-intensive. Here, we developed AxoNet 2.0, an automated deep learning (DL) tool that (i) counts normal-appearing RGC axons and (ii) quantifies their morphometry from light micrographs. Methods A DL algorithm was trained to segment the axoplasm and myelin sheath of normal-appearing axons using manually-annotated rat optic nerve (ON) cross-sectional micrographs. Performance was quantified by various metrics (e.g., soft-Dice coefficient between predicted and ground-truth segmentations). We also quantified axon counts, axon density, and axon size distributions between hypertensive and control eyes and compared to literature reports. Results AxoNet 2.0 performed very well when compared to manual annotations of rat ON (R2 = 0.92 for automated vs. manual counts, soft-Dice coefficient = 0.81 ± 0.02, mean absolute percentage error in axonal morphometric outcomes < 15%). AxoNet 2.0 also showed promise for generalization, performing well on other animal models (R2 = 0.97 between automated versus manual counts for mice and 0.98 for non-human primates). As expected, the algorithm detected decreased in axon density in hypertensive rat eyes (P ≪ 0.001) with preferential loss of large axons (P < 0.001). Conclusions AxoNet 2.0 provides a fast and nonsubjective tool to quantify both RGC axon counts and morphological features, thus assisting with assessing axonal damage in animal models of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Translational Relevance This deep learning approach will increase rigor of basic science studies designed to investigate RGC axon protection and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidisha Goyal
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A. Thomas Read
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew D. Ritch
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bailey G. Hannon
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gabriela Sanchez Rodriguez
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dillon M. Brown
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andrew J. Feola
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Healthcare System, Decatur, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adam Hedberg-Buenz
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Iowa City VA Health Care System and Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Grant A. Cull
- Devers Eye Institute, Legacy Research Institute, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Juan Reynaud
- Devers Eye Institute, Legacy Research Institute, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mona K. Garvin
- Devers Eye Institute, Legacy Research Institute, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Michael G. Anderson
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Iowa City VA Health Care System and Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - C. Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Sayah DN, Lesk MR. Ocular Rigidity and Current Therapy. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:105-113. [PMID: 35763027 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2093380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Ocular rigidity (OR) is an important biomechanical parameter of the eye accounting for the material and geometrical properties of the corneoscleral shell.Methods: This study used a literature search to review the role of ocular rigidity and the application of potential therapies targeting this parameter in glaucoma and myopia.Conclusion: Biomechanical modeling and improved understanding of the biochemistry, and molecular arrangement of sclera and its constituents have yielded important insights. Recent developments, including that of a non-invasive and direct OR measurement method and improved ocular imaging techniques are helping to elucidate the role of OR in healthy and diseased eyes by facilitating large scale and longitudinal clinical studies. Improved understanding of OR at the initial stages of disease processes and its alterations with disease progression will undoubtedly propel research in the field. Furthermore, a better understanding of the determinants of OR is helping to refine novel therapeutic approaches which target and alter the biomechanical properties of the sclera in sight-threatening conditions such as glaucoma and myopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane N Sayah
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Canada.,School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mark R Lesk
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Centre Universitaire d'ophtalmologie de l'Université de Montréal de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, CIUSSS-E, Montreal, Canada
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Czerpak CA, Kashaf MS, Zimmerman BK, Quigley HA, Nguyen TD. The Strain Response to Intraocular Pressure Decrease in the Lamina Cribrosa of Patients with Glaucoma. Ophthalmol Glaucoma 2023; 6:11-22. [PMID: 35863747 PMCID: PMC9849479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogla.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure biomechanical strains in the lamina cribrosa (LC) of living human eyes with intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering. DESIGN Cohort study. PARTICIPANTS Patients with glaucoma underwent imaging before and after laser suturelysis after trabeculectomy surgery (29 image pairs; 26 persons). INTERVENTION Noninvasive imaging of the eye. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Strains in optic nerve head tissue and changes in depths of the anterior border of the LC. RESULTS Intraocular pressure decreases caused the LC to expand in thickness in the anterior-posterior strain (Ezz = 0.94 ± 1.2%; P = 0.00020) and contract in radius in the radial strain (Err = - 0.19 ± 0.33%; P = 0.0043). The mean LC depth did not significantly change with IOP lowering (1.33 ± 6.26 μm; P = 0.26). A larger IOP decrease produced a larger, more tensile Ezz (P < 0.0001), greater maximum principal strain (Emax; P < 0.0001), and greater maximum shear strain (Γmax; P < 0.0001). The average LC depth change was associated with the Γmax and radial-circumferential shear strain (Erθ; P < 0.02) but was not significantly related to tensile or compressive strains. An analysis by clock hour showed that in temporal clock hours 3 to 6, a more anterior LC movement was associated with a more positive Emax, and in clock hours 3, 5, and 6, it was associated with a more positive Γmax. At 10 o'clock, a more posterior LC movement was related to a more positive Emax (P < 0.004). Greater compliance (strain/ΔIOP) of Emax (P = 0.044), Γmax (P = 0.052), and Erθ (P = 0.018) was associated with a thinner retinal nerve fiber layer. Greater compliance of Emax (P = 0.041), Γmax (P = 0.021), Erθ (P = 0.024), and in-plane shear strain (Erz; P = 0.0069) was associated with more negative mean deviations. Greater compliance of Γmax (P = 0.055), Erθ (P = 0.040), and Erz (P = 0.015) was associated with lower visual field indices. CONCLUSIONS With IOP lowering, the LC moves either into or out of the eye but, on average, expands in thickness and contracts in radius. Shear strains are nearly as substantial as in-plane strains. Biomechanical strains are more compliant in eyes with greater glaucoma damage. This work was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03267849.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron A Czerpak
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Michael Saheb Kashaf
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Brandon K Zimmerman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Harry A Quigley
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Thao D Nguyen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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Guan C, Pease ME, Quillen S, Ling YTT, Li X, Kimball E, Johnson TV, Nguyen TD, Quigley HA. Quantitative Microstructural Analysis of Cellular and Tissue Remodeling in Human Glaucoma Optic Nerve Head. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:18. [PMID: 36269186 PMCID: PMC9617510 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.11.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To measure quantitatively changes in lamina cribrosa (LC) cell and connective tissue structure in human glaucoma eyes. Methods We studied 27 glaucoma and 19 age-matched non-glaucoma postmortem eyes. In 25 eyes, LC cross-sections were examined by confocal and multiphoton microscopy to quantify structures identified by anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), phalloidin-labeled F-actin, nuclear 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), and by second harmonic generation imaging of LC beams. Additional light and transmission electron microscopy were performed in 21 eyes to confirm features of LC remodeling, including immunolabeling by anti-SOX9 and anti-collagen IV. All glaucoma eyes had detailed clinical histories of open-angle glaucoma status, and degree of axon loss was quantified in retrolaminar optic nerve cross-sections. Results Within LC pores, the proportionate area of both GFAP and F-actin processes was significantly lower in glaucoma eyes than in controls (P = 0.01). Nuclei were rounder (lower median aspect ratio) in glaucoma specimens (P = 0.02). In models assessing degree of glaucoma damage, F-actin process width was significantly wider in glaucoma eyes with more damage (P = 0.024), average LC beam width decreased with worse glaucoma damage (P = 0.042), and nuclear count per square millimeter rose with worse damage (P = 0.019). The greater cell count in LC pores represented 92.3% astrocytes by SOX9 labeling. The results are consistent with replacement of axons in LC pores by basement membrane labeled by anti-collagen IV and in-migrating astrocytes. Conclusions Alteration in LC structure in glaucoma involves migration of astrocytes into axonal bundles, change in astrocyte orientation and processes, production of basement membrane material, and thinning of connective tissue beams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Guan
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Mary Ellen Pease
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Sarah Quillen
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Yik Tung Tracy Ling
- Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science & Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Ximin Li
- Department of Biostatistics, The Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Elizabeth Kimball
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Thomas V. Johnson
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Thao D. Nguyen
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science & Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Harry A. Quigley
- Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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10
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Gerberich BG, Hannon BG, Brown DM, Read AT, Ritch MD, Schrader Echeverri E, Nichols L, Potnis C, Sridhar S, Toothman MG, Schwaner SA, Winger EJ, Huang H, Gershon GS, Feola AJ, Pardue MT, Prausnitz MR, Ethier CR. Evaluation of Spatially Targeted Scleral Stiffening on Neuroprotection in a Rat Model of Glaucoma. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:7. [PMID: 35536721 PMCID: PMC9100482 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.5.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Scleral stiffening may protect against glaucomatous retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss or dysfunction associated with ocular hypertension. Here, we assess the potential neuroprotective effects of two treatments designed to stiffen either the entire posterior sclera or only the sclera adjacent to the peripapillary sclera in an experimental model of glaucoma. Methods Rat sclerae were stiffened in vivo using either genipin (crosslinking the entire posterior sclera) or a regionally selective photosensitizer, methylene blue (stiffening only the juxtaperipapillary region surrounding the optic nerve). Ocular hypertension was induced using magnetic microbeads delivered to the anterior chamber. Morphological and functional outcomes, including optic nerve axon count and appearance, retinal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography, optomotor response, and electroretinography traces, were assessed. Results Both local (juxtaperipapillary) and global (whole posterior) scleral stiffening treatments were successful at increasing scleral stiffness, but neither provided demonstrable neuroprotection in hypertensive eyes as assessed by RGC axon counts and appearance, optomotor response, or electroretinography. There was a weak indication that scleral crosslinking protected against retinal thinning as assessed by optical coherence tomography. Conclusions Scleral stiffening was not demonstrated to be neuroprotective in ocular hypertensive rats. We hypothesize that the absence of benefit may in part be due to RGC loss associated with the scleral stiffening agents themselves (mild in the case of genipin, and moderate in the case of methylene blue), negating any potential benefit of scleral stiffening. Translational Relevance The development of scleral stiffening as a neuroprotective treatment will require the identification of better tolerated stiffening protocols and further preclinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon G. Gerberich
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Bailey G. Hannon
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dillon M. Brown
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A. Thomas Read
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew D. Ritch
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Elisa Schrader Echeverri
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Nichols
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cahil Potnis
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sreesh Sridhar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Maya G. Toothman
- College of Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Stephen A. Schwaner
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Exponent, Inc., Biomechanics Practice, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Erin J. Winger
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hannah Huang
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gabby S. Gershon
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andrew J. Feola
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Machelle T. Pardue
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mark R. Prausnitz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C. Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
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11
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Gerberich BG, Wood-Yang AJ, Radmand A, Nichols LM, Hejri A, Echeverri ES, Gersch HG, Prausnitz MR. Computational modeling of corneal and scleral collagen photocrosslinking. J Control Release 2022; 347:314-329. [PMID: 35513208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Scleral photocrosslinking is increasingly investigated for treatment of myopia and glaucoma. In this study a computational model was developed to predict crosslinking efficiency of visible/near infrared photosensitizers in the sclera. Photocrosslinking was validated against riboflavin corneal crosslinking experimental studies and subsequently modeled for the sensitizer, methylene blue, administered by retrobulbar injection to the posterior sclera and irradiated with a transpupillary light beam. Optimal ranges were determined for treatment parameters including light intensity, methylene blue concentration, injection volume, and inspired oxygen concentration. Additionally, sensitivity of crosslinking to various parameters was quantified. The most sensitive parameters (in order of greatest to least sensitive) were tissue parameters (including scleral thickness and choroidal melanin concentration), treatment parameters (including treatment duration and inspired oxygen concentration), and sensitizer parameters (including triplet quantum yield).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon G Gerberich
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amy J Wood-Yang
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Afsane Radmand
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lauren M Nichols
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amir Hejri
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elisa Schrader Echeverri
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hannah G Gersch
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mark R Prausnitz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Biomechanics is an important aspect of the complex family of diseases known as the glaucomas. Here, we review recent studies of biomechanics in glaucoma. RECENT FINDINGS Several tissues have direct and/or indirect biomechanical roles in various forms of glaucoma, including the trabecular meshwork, cornea, peripapillary sclera, optic nerve head/sheath, and iris. Multiple mechanosensory mechanisms and signaling pathways continue to be identified in both the trabecular meshwork and optic nerve head. Further, the recent literature describes a variety of approaches for investigating the role of tissue biomechanics as a risk factor for glaucoma, including pathological stiffening of the trabecular meshwork, peripapillary scleral structural changes, and remodeling of the optic nerve head. Finally, there have been advances in incorporating biomechanical information in glaucoma prognoses, including corneal biomechanical parameters and iridial mechanical properties in angle-closure glaucoma. SUMMARY Biomechanics remains an active aspect of glaucoma research, with activity in both basic science and clinical translation. However, the role of biomechanics in glaucoma remains incompletely understood. Therefore, further studies are indicated to identify novel therapeutic approaches that leverage biomechanics. Importantly, clinical translation of appropriate assays of tissue biomechanical properties in glaucoma is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak N. Safa
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
| | - Cydney A. Wong
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
| | - Jungmin Ha
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
| | - C. Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta GA, USA
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13
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Hannon BG, Feola AJ, Gerberich BG, Read AT, Prausnitz MR, Ethier CR, Pardue MT. Corrigendum to "Using retinal function to define ischemic exclusion criteria for animal models of glaucoma" [Exp. Eye. Res. 202 (2021) 108354 doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108354 Epub 2020 Nov 7]. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108699. [PMID: 34243961 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B G Hannon
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A J Feola
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - B G Gerberich
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A T Read
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - M R Prausnitz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C R Ethier
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA; Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - M T Pardue
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Blackburn BJ, Rollins AM, Dupps WJ. Biomechanics of Ophthalmic Crosslinking. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:8. [PMID: 34328498 PMCID: PMC8327749 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.5.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Crosslinking involves the formation of bonds between polymer chains, such as proteins. In biological tissues, these bonds tend to stiffen the tissue, making it more resistant to mechanical degradation and deformation. In ophthalmology, the crosslinking phenomenon is being increasingly harnessed and explored as a treatment strategy for treating corneal ectasias, keratitis, degenerative myopia, and glaucoma. This review surveys the multitude of exogenous crosslinking strategies reported in the literature, both "light" (involving light energy) and "dark" (involving non-photic chemical processes), and explores their mechanisms, cytotoxicity, and stage of translational development. The spectrum of ophthalmic applications described in the literature is then discussed, with particular attention to proposed therapeutic mechanisms in the cornea and sclera. The mechanical effects of crosslinking are then discussed in the context of their proposed site and scale of action. Biomechanical characterization of the crosslinking effect is needed to more thoroughly address knowledge gaps in this area, and a review of reported methods for biomechanical characterization is presented with an attempt to assess the sensitivity of each method to crosslinking-mediated changes using data from the experimental and clinical literature. Biomechanical measurement methods differ in spatial resolution, mechanical sensitivity, suitability for detecting crosslinking subtypes, and translational readiness and are central to the effort to understand the mechanistic link between crosslinking methods and clinical outcomes of candidate therapies. Data on differences in the biomechanical effect of different crosslinking protocols and their correspondence to clinical outcomes are reviewed, and strategies for leveraging measurement advances predicting clinical outcomes of crosslinking procedures are discussed. Advancing the understanding of ophthalmic crosslinking, its biomechanical underpinnings, and its applications supports the development of next-generation crosslinking procedures that optimize therapeutic effect while reducing complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brecken J. Blackburn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrew M. Rollins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - William J. Dupps
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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