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Liu LC, Chen YH, Lu DW. The Application of Rho Kinase Inhibitors in the Management of Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5576. [PMID: 38891764 PMCID: PMC11171673 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115576] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that poses a significant threat of irreversible blindness worldwide. Current treatments for glaucoma focus on reducing intraocular pressure (IOP), which is the only modifiable risk factor. Traditional anti-glaucomatous agents, including carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, beta-blockers, alpha-2 agonists, and prostaglandin analogs, work by either improving uveoscleral outflow or reducing aqueous humor production. Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors represent a novel class of anti-glaucomatous drugs that have emerged from bench to bedside in the past decade, offering multifunctional characteristics. Unlike conventional medications, ROCK inhibitors directly target the trabecular meshwork outflow pathway. This review aims to discuss the mechanism of ROCK inhibitors in reducing IOP, providing neuroprotection, and preventing fibrosis. We also highlight recent studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ROCK inhibitors, compare them with other clinical anti-glaucomatous medications, and outline future prospects for ROCK inhibitors in glaucoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Da-Wen Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (L.-C.L.); (Y.-H.C.)
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Ko JA, Komatsu K, Minamoto A, Kondo S, Okumichi H, Hirooka K, Kiuchi Y. Effects of Ripasudil, a Rho-Kinase Inhibitor, on Scar Formation in a Mouse Model of Filtration Surgery. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:826-835. [PMID: 37216470 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2217367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Characteristic changes occur in the optic nerve and visual field of patients with glaucoma; optic nerve damage can be mitigated by lowering intraocular pressure. Treatment modalities include drugs and lasers; filtration surgery is necessary for patients with insufficient intraocular pressure reduction. Scar formation often contributes to glaucoma filtration surgery failure by increasing fibroblast proliferation and activation. Here, we examined the effects of ripasudil, a Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, on postoperative scar formation in human Tenon's fibroblasts. METHODS Collagen gel contraction assays were used to compare contractility activity among ripasudil and other anti-glaucoma drugs. The effect of Ripasudil in combination with other anti-glaucoma drugs and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), latanoprost and timolol-induce contractions were also tested in this study. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting were used to study the expression of factors relating scarring formation. RESULTS Ripasudil inhibited contraction in collagen gel assay and reduced α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and vimentin (scar formation-related factors) expression, which was inversely promoted by latanoprost, timolol or TGF-β. Ripasudil also inhibited contraction on TGF-β, latanoprost and timolol-induced contraction. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of ripasudil on postoperative scarring in a mouse model; ripasudil suppressed postoperative scar formation by altering the expression of α-SMA and vimentin. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that ripasudil, ROCK inhibitor may inhibit excessive fibrosis after glaucoma filtering surgery vis inhibition the transdifferentiation of tenon fibroblast into myofibroblast and may have a potential effect as anti-scarring for glaucoma filtration surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Ae Ko
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kaori Komatsu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akira Minamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Satomi Kondo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hideaki Okumichi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Hirooka
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kiuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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3
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Saha BC, Kumari R, Kushumesh R, Ambasta A, Sinha BP. Status of Rho kinase inhibitors in glaucoma therapeutics-an overview. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 42:281-294. [PMID: 34453229 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-02002-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Medical management remains the cornerstone of glaucoma management despite advances in the surgical or laser procedures. After a leap of almost two decades of the advent of prostaglandin analogues, recently a new class of drug, Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors, has come to limelight because of their varied therapeutic potential in different clinical conditions of eye, especially glaucoma. Their efficacy of lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) by virtue of an entirely different mechanism of decreasing outflow resistance has ignited a series of clinical trials evaluating their potential as monotherapy or as adjunct to existing antiglaucoma medications, and three of them ripasudil, netarsudil and roclatan have even been approved for clinical use in the recent past. There are evidences suggesting their beneficial effects in glaucoma patients even via non-IOP-dependent mechanisms like neuroprotection by improving blood flow to the optic nerve and increasing ganglion cell survival. They can even act as antifibrotic agents and reduce bleb scarring after glaucoma surgery. Hence, their effective role in glaucomatous optic neuropathy is multifaceted primary being improved drainage through the conventional pathway. On the other hand, certain local adverse effects like conjunctival hyperaemia have been reported in substantial proportion of patients, while some others like blepharitis, subconjunctival haemorrhages and cornea verticillata constitute less common side effects. The purpose of this review is to summarize the discovery, evolution and recent update of clinical trials on Rho kinase inhibitors as antiglaucoma medicine and to delineate their role in existing management protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anita Ambasta
- Community Ophthalmology, Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, IGIMS, Patna, India
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4
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Martín-Cámara O, Cores Á, López-Alvarado P, Menéndez JC. Emerging targets in drug discovery against neurodegenerative diseases: Control of synapsis disfunction by the RhoA/ROCK pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 225:113742. [PMID: 34388381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Synaptic spine morphology is controlled by the activity of Rac1, Cdc42 and RhoA, which need to be finely balanced, and in particular RhoA/ROCK prevents the formation of new protrusions by stabilizing actin formation. These processes are crucial to the maturation process, slowing the de novo generation of new spines. The RhoA/ROCK also influences plasticity processes, and selective modulation by ROCK1 of MLC-dependent actin dynamics leads to neurite retraction, but not to spine retraction. ROCK1 is also responsible for the reduction of the readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles. These and other evidences suggest that ROCK1 is the main isoform acting on the presynaptic neuron. On the other hand, ROCK2 seems to have broad effects on LIMK/cofilin-dependent plasticity processes such as cofilin-dependent PSD changes. The RhoA/ROCK pathway is an important factor in several different brain-related pathologies via both downstream and upstream pathways. In the aggregate, these evidences show that the RhoA/ROCK pathway has a central role in the etiopathogenesis of a large group of CNS diseases, which underscores the importance of the pharmacological modulation of RhoA/ROCK as an important pathway to drug discovery in the neurodegenerative disease area. This article aims at providing the first review of the role of compounds acting on the RhoA/ROCK pathway in the control of synaptic disfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olmo Martín-Cámara
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Cores
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar López-Alvarado
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Carlos Menéndez
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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5
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Soldatov VO, Kukharsky MS, Belykh AE, Sobolev AM, Deykin AV. Retinal Damage in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Underlying Mechanisms. Eye Brain 2021; 13:131-146. [PMID: 34012311 PMCID: PMC8128130 DOI: 10.2147/eb.s299423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease resulting in a gradual loss of motor neuron function. Although ophthalmic complaints are not presently considered a classic symptom of ALS, retinal changes such as thinning, axonal degeneration and inclusion bodies have been found in many patients. Retinal abnormalities observed in postmortem human tissues and animal models are similar to spinal cord changes in ALS. These findings are not dramatically unexpected because retina shares an ontogenetic relationship with the brain, and many genes are associated both with neurodegeneration and retinal diseases. Experimental studies have demonstrated that ALS affects many “vulnerable points” of the retina. Aggregate deposition, impaired nuclear protein import, endoplasmic reticulum stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, vascular regression, and mitochondrial dysfunction are factors suspected as being the main cause of motor neuron damage in ALS. Herein, we show that all of these pathways can affect retinal cells in the same way as motor neurons. Furthermore, we suppose that understanding the patterns of neuro-ophthalmic interaction in ALS can help in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav O Soldatov
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Michail S Kukharsky
- Department of General and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medical Biology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Laboratory of Genetic Modelling of Neurodegenerative Processes, Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
| | - Andrey E Belykh
- Department of Pathophysiology, Kursk State Medical University, Kursk, Russia
| | - Andrey M Sobolev
- Laboratory of Genetic Modelling of Neurodegenerative Processes, Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, Russia
| | - Alexey V Deykin
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia.,Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Liu W, Gao J, Yi X, Li Y, Zeng Y. Absorption, tissue disposition, and excretion of fasudil hydrochloride, a RHO kinase inhibitor, in rats and dogs. Biopharm Drug Dispos 2021; 41:206-220. [PMID: 32383777 DOI: 10.1002/bdd.2231] [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] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Fasudil hydrochloride as an intracellular calcium ion antagonist that dilates blood vessels has exhibited a very potent pharmacological effect in the treatment of angina pectoris. The purpose of this study was to determine the absorption, distribution, and excretion profiles of fasudil in rats and beagle dogs, respectively, to clarify its pharmacokinetic pattern. A sensitive and reliable LC-MS/MS method has been developed and established and successfully applied to pharmacokinetic study, including absorption, tissue distribution, and excretion. The results revealed that in the range of 2-6 mg/kg, the pharmacokinetic behavior for instance, AUC and Cmax , in rats was observed in a dose dependent manner. However, the plasma concentrations were indicative of a significant gender difference in the pharmacokinetics of fasudil in rats, in terms of absolute bioavailability and excretion. Interestingly, the resulting data obtained from beagle dogs showed that there was no gender difference in the absolute bioavailability of fasudil hydrochloride after single or repeated administrations. In conclusion, this study characterized the pharmacokinetic pattern fasudil both in rats and beagle dogs through absorption, tissue distribution and excretion study. The findings may be valuable and provide a rationale for further study and its safe use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, China
| | - Xiulin Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, China
| | - Yazhuo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, China
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Tan J, Liu G, Lan C, Pang IH, Luo X, Wu S, Fan N, Zhang J, Wang N, Liu X. Lentiviral vector-mediated expression of C3 transferase attenuates retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats. Life Sci 2021; 272:119269. [PMID: 33631175 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Our previous study showed that intravitreal delivery of self-complementary AAV2 (scAAV2)-mediated exoenzyme C3 transferase (C3) can attenuate retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The current study investigated the neuroprotective effects of lentivirus (LV)-mediated C3 transgene expression on rat retinal I/R injury. MAIN METHODS The LV encoding C3 and green fluorescent protein (GFP) together (LV-C3-GFP) or GFP only (LV-GFP) was intravitreally injected to SPRAGUE-DAWLEY rats. On day 5 post-intravitreal injection, eyes were evaluated by slit-lamp examination. The GFP expression on retina was confirmed by in vivo and ex vivo assessments. RhoA GTPase expression in retina was examined by western blot. Retinal I/R injury was generated by transiently increasing intraocular pressure (110 mmHg, 90 min). Eyes were then enucleated, and retinas processed for morphological analysis and TdT-dUTP terminal nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. KEY FINDINGS No obvious inflammatory reactions or surgical complications were observed after intravitreal injection of LV vectors. There was a significant decrease of total RhoA GTPase level in the retina treated with LV-C3-GFP. Compared to the blank control group, LV-C3-GFP and LV-GFP did not affect the retinal thickness, cell density in ganglion cell layer (GCL), or numbers of apoptotic cells in retinal flat-mounts. In the LV-GFP-treated retinas, I/R decreased the retinal thickness and GCL cell density and increased apoptotic retinal cell numbers. LV-C3-GFP significantly protected against all these degenerative effects of I/R. SIGNIFICANCE This study indicated that LV-mediated C3 transgene expression exhibits neuroprotective effects on the retinal I/R injury and holds potential as a novel neuroprotective approach targeting certain retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junkai Tan
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361006, China
| | - Guo Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
| | - Chunlin Lan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Iok-Hou Pang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States
| | - Xiaolin Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, the 2nd Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Shen Wu
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Ning Fan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Jingxue Zhang
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Ningli Wang
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xuyang Liu
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361006, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the 2nd Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China.
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8
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Erb C, Konieczka K. [Rho kinase inhibitors as new local therapy option in primary open angle glaucoma]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:449-460. [PMID: 33403458 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-020-01303-2] [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] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2014 in Japan and 2017 in the USA, the Rho-kinase inhibitors were approved as a new antiglaucomatous substance group and will now be launched in Europe. OBJECTIVE On this occasion the current state of knowledge on Rho-kinase inhibitors is presented. METHODS In intensive search in PubMed the relevant experimental and clinical literature on the Rho-kinase inhibitors ripasudil and netarsudil and the combination of netarsudil and latanoprost were selected and compiled for this review. RESULTS The intraocular pressure lowering efficacy of ripasudil and netarsudil is in the range of the beta blocker timolol and the prostaglandin analogue latanoprost. In the fixed combination netarsudil/latanoprost the intraocular pressure reduction is greater than that of the single components and reaches a target pressure of below 15 mm Hg in 32%. Conjunctival hyperemia with 53-65% is the most common local side effect. Systemic side effects are very rare and so far there are no contraindications. CONCLUSION The Rho-kinase inhibitors are an interesting new introduction for glaucoma therapy, as each new pressure-lowering therapy represents an additional chance to reach the individually defined target pressure level in a glaucoma patient with local therapy; however, many of the pleiotropic effects associated with Rho-kinase inhibitors have so far only been found experimentally and will require clinical confirmation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Erb
- Augenklinik am Wittenbergplatz, Kleiststr. 23-26, 10787, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - K Konieczka
- Augenklinik, Universitätsspital, Mittlere Straße 91, 4056, Basel, Schweiz
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Kitahata S, Ichikawa H, Tanaka Y, Inoue T, Kadonosono K. Transient rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase (ROCK) inhibition on human retinal pigment epithelium results in persistent Rho/ROCK downregulation. Biochem Biophys Rep 2020; 24:100841. [PMID: 33294632 PMCID: PMC7683314 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2020.100841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells is the outermost layer of the retina and RPE dysfunction is a key factor in the disease pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Transplantation therapy using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived RPEs has recently received much attention as a treatment for AMD. Preserving these cells under the best possible conditions is important, and preservation methods using Y-27632 have been reported. Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinase (ROCK) inhibitors are known to inhibit cell death, emerging as important drug candidates for stem cell differentiation and regenerative medicine. However, it has recently been shown that ROCK inhibitors may have a vasodilatory effect on human retinal arterioles, a side effect that should ideally be avoided in RPE transplantation. Although ROCK inhibitors hold great potential, optimizing efficacy while minimizing adverse reactions is critical for translation into a clinical treatment. We examined the effect of transient exposure of RPE cells to ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 to determine whether the extracellular presence of the drug is necessary for ongoing Rho/ROCK downregulation. Human RPE cells were subcultured as a suspension for 4 h in drug-free medium following exposure to Y-27632 for 2 h. A Y-27632 concentration of >10 μM improved cell survival beyond 4 h and cell proliferation in recovery culture medium. ROCK2 expression levels were specifically downregulated by Y-27632 in the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the effect of Y-27632 is not dependent on its extracellular availability and can last beyond the 2 h of exposure. The lasting Rho/ROCK signaling pathway downregulation by Y-27632 suggests that RPE cell transplantation with ROCK inhibitor-free media is possible, which can minimize side effects to host tissue and have wider implications for transplantation methods requiring ROCK inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Kitahata
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hinako Ichikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuji Tanaka
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan.,Division of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Engineering, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Kadonosono
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
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Kumari N, Karmakar A, Chakrabarti S, Ganesan SK. Integrative Computational Approach Revealed Crucial Genes Associated With Different Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Genet 2020; 11:576442. [PMID: 33304382 PMCID: PMC7693709 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.576442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The increased incidence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and the legacy effect associated with it has raised a great concern toward the need to find early diagnostic and treatment strategies. Identifying alterations in genes and microRNAs (miRNAs) is one of the most critical steps toward understanding the mechanisms by which a disease progresses, and this can be further used in finding potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and treatment methods. We selected different datasets to identify altered genes and miRNAs. The integrative analysis was employed to find potential candidate genes (differentially expressed and aberrantly methylated genes that are also the target of altered miRNAs) and early genes (genes showing altered expression and methylation pattern during early stage of DR) for DR. We constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to find hub genes (potential candidate genes showing a greater number of interactions) and modules. Gene ontologies and pathways associated with the identified genes were analyzed to determine their role in DR progression. A total of 271 upregulated-hypomethylated genes, 84 downregulated-hypermethylated genes, 11 upregulated miRNA, and 30 downregulated miRNA specific to DR were identified. 40 potential candidate genes and 9 early genes were also identified. PPI network analysis revealed 7 hub genes (number of interactions >5) and 1 module (score = 5.67). Gene ontology and pathway analysis predicted enrichment of genes in oxidoreductase activity, binding to extracellular matrix, immune responses, leukocyte migration, cell adhesion, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, ECM receptor interaction, etc., and thus their association with DR pathogenesis. In conclusion, we identified 7 hub genes and 9 early genes that could act as a potential prognostic, diagnostic, or therapeutic target for DR, and a few early genes could also play a role in metabolic memory phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Kumari
- Department of Structural Biology & Bioinformatics, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,CSIR-IICB Translational Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kolkata, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Aditi Karmakar
- Department of Structural Biology & Bioinformatics, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,CSIR-IICB Translational Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kolkata, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Saikat Chakrabarti
- Department of Structural Biology & Bioinformatics, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,CSIR-IICB Translational Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kolkata, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Senthil Kumar Ganesan
- Department of Structural Biology & Bioinformatics, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,CSIR-IICB Translational Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kolkata, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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11
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Abbhi V, Piplani P. Rho-kinase (ROCK) Inhibitors - A Neuroprotective Therapeutic Paradigm with a Focus on Ocular Utility. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:2222-2256. [PMID: 30378487 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666181031102829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy causing visual impairment and Retinal Ganglionic Cells (RGCs) death gradually posing a need for neuroprotective strategies to minimize the loss of RGCs and visual field. It is recognized as a multifactorial disease, Intraocular Pressure (IOP) being the foremost risk factor. ROCK inhibitors have been probed for various possible indications, such as myocardial ischemia, hypertension, kidney diseases. Their role in neuroprotection and neuronal regeneration has been suggested to be of value in the treatment of neurological diseases, like spinal-cord injury, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis but recently Rho-associated Kinase inhibitors have been recognized as potential antiglaucoma agents. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Rho-Kinase is a serine/threonine kinase with a kinase domain which is constitutively active and is involved in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction and stress fibre formation. Two isoforms of Rho-Kinase, ROCK-I (ROCK β) and ROCK-II (ROCK α) have been identified. ROCK II plays a pathophysiological role in glaucoma and hence the inhibitors of ROCK may be beneficial to ameliorate the vision loss. These inhibitors decrease the intraocular pressure in the glaucomatous eye by increasing the aqueous humour outflow through the trabecular meshwork pathway. They also act as anti-scarring agents and hence prevent post-operative scarring after the glaucoma filtration surgery. Their major role involves axon regeneration by increasing the optic nerve blood flow which may be useful in treating the damaged optic neurons. These drugs act directly on the neurons in the central visual pathway, interrupting the RGC apoptosis and therefore serve as a novel pharmacological approach for glaucoma neuroprotection. CONCLUSION Based on the results of high-throughput screening, several Rho kinase inhibitors have been designed and developed comprising of diverse scaffolds exhibiting Rho kinase inhibitory activity from micromolar to subnanomolar ranges. This diversity in the scaffolds with inhibitory potential against the kinase and their SAR development will be intricated in the present review. Ripasudil is the only Rho kinase inhibitor marketed to date for the treatment of glaucoma. Another ROCK inhibitor AR-13324 has recently passed the clinical trials whereas AMA0076, K115, PG324, Y39983 and RKI-983 are still under trials. In view of this, a detailed and updated account of ROCK II inhibitors as the next generation therapeutic agents for glaucoma will be discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasudha Abbhi
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study (UGCCAS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Poonam Piplani
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study (UGCCAS), Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
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12
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Mulherkar S, Tolias KF. RhoA-ROCK Signaling as a Therapeutic Target in Traumatic Brain Injury. Cells 2020; 9:E245. [PMID: 31963704 PMCID: PMC7016605 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. TBIs, which range in severity from mild to severe, occur when a traumatic event, such as a fall, a traffic accident, or a blow, causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, resulting in damage. Long-term consequences of TBI can include motor and cognitive deficits and emotional disturbances that result in a reduced quality of life and work productivity. Recovery from TBI can be challenging due to a lack of effective treatment options for repairing TBI-induced neural damage and alleviating functional impairments. Central nervous system (CNS) injury and disease are known to induce the activation of the small GTPase RhoA and its downstream effector Rho kinase (ROCK). Activation of this signaling pathway promotes cell death and the retraction and loss of neural processes and synapses, which mediate information flow and storage in the brain. Thus, inhibiting RhoA-ROCK signaling has emerged as a promising approach for treating CNS disorders. In this review, we discuss targeting the RhoA-ROCK pathway as a therapeutic strategy for treating TBI and summarize the recent advances in the development of RhoA-ROCK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalaka Mulherkar
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Kimberley F. Tolias
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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13
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Brockmann C, Corkhill C, Jaroslawska E, Dege S, Brockmann T, Kociok N, Joussen AM. Systemic Rho-kinase inhibition using fasudil in mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 257:1699-1708. [PMID: 31152312 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04365-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the influence of the selective Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, fasudil, on the mRNA level of proinflammatory factors and the retinal vascular development in mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). METHODS C57BL/6J mice underwent standard protocol for OIR induction from postnatal days 7 to 12. Subsequently, they received a daily intraperitoneal injection of fasudil or sodium chloride from P12 to P16. Analyses were performed using vascular staining on retinal flat mounts, RNA expression by qPCR, and immunohistochemistry on paraffin sections. RESULTS On retinal flat mounts, the proportion of avascular area and tuft formation did not differ between the fasudil and NaCl group. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a less intense staining with inflammatory markers after fasudil. Nevertheless, there were no differences on RNA level between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, our findings support that daily systemic application of fasudil does not decrease retinal neovascularization in rodents with oxygen-induced retinopathy. The results of our study together with the controversial results on the effects of different ROCK inhibitors from the literature makes it apparent that effects of ROCK inhibition are more complex, and further studies are necessary to analyze its potential therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Brockmann
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany. .,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.
| | - Caitlin Corkhill
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elzbieta Jaroslawska
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sabrina Dege
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Brockmann
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Norbert Kociok
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Antonia M Joussen
- Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz, 113353, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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14
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Ibrahim DG, Ko JA, Iwata W, Okumichi H, Kiuchi Y. An in vitro study of scarring formation mediated by human Tenon fibroblasts: Effect of Y-27632, a Rho kinase inhibitor. Cell Biochem Funct 2019; 37:113-124. [PMID: 30773659 PMCID: PMC6646872 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Scar formation is the most common cause for failure of glaucoma filtration surgery because of increased fibroblast proliferation and activation. We have now examined the effect of Y‐27632, a Rho‐associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, on postsurgical scarring formation in human Tenon fibroblasts (HTFs). Collagen gel contraction assay was used to compare contractility activity of Y‐27632 with several antiglaucoma drugs. Immunofluorescence and western blotting were used to examine expression of scar formation–related factors. We found that Y‐27632 inhibited collagen gel contraction, as well as α‐smooth muscle actin and vimentin expression; these were promoted by treatment with latanoprost, timolol, or transforming growth factor (TGF)–β. To investigate the effect of Y‐27632 in postsurgical scarring, we mimicked TGF‐β secretion by stimulating HTFs with TGF‐β prior to Y‐27632 treatment. HTFs cultured in the presence of TGF‐β significantly increased gel contraction. In contrast, when HTFs were treated with 10μM Y‐27632, contraction was significantly inhibited. Furthermore, Y‐27632 reduced TGF‐β–induced phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling. These results suggest that ROCK inhibitors may inhibit fibrosis by inhibiting transdifferentiation of Tenon fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and by inhibiting TGF‐β signalling after surgery through mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway suppression. These results implicate that ROCK inhibitors may improve outcomes after filtering surgery with a potential antiscarring effect, while latanoprost and timolol may induce fibrosis. Significance of the study Scar formation is the primary cause of failure after glaucoma filtration surgery. A ROCK inhibitor, Y‐27632, has been introduced as a novel potential antiglaucoma treatment to reduce intraocular pressure. The aim of our study was to elucidate the effect of Y‐27632 on scarring formation after glaucoma filtration surgery, in direct comparison with other antiglaucoma drugs. Our findings thus suggested that Y‐27632 may inhibit fibrosis and improve outcome after glaucoma filtration surgery through inhibition of transdifferentiation of Tenon fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and the TGF‐β and MAPK signalling after surgery, while latanoprost and timolol may induce fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diah Gemala Ibrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Ji-Ae Ko
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Wakana Iwata
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hideaki Okumichi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kiuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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15
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Dasso L, Al-Khaled T, Sonty S, Aref AA. Profile of netarsudil ophthalmic solution and its potential in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma: evidence to date. Clin Ophthalmol 2018; 12:1939-1944. [PMID: 30323550 PMCID: PMC6177382 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s154001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Netarsudil ophthalmic solution is a novel topical intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering agent that has recently been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. Its unique pharmacology allows for IOP lowering as a result of direct reduction in trabecular outflow resistance in addition to a decrease in episcleral venous pressure and aqueous humor production. The efficacy of netarsudil has been shown in animal studies and human clinical trials. It has been shown to be noninferior to the therapy with topical timolol in individuals with baseline IOP <25 mmHg. Importantly, netarsudil has been shown to reduce IOP to the same degree, regardless of baseline levels. There are no known systemic safety issues associated with netarsudil. The most common local adverse effects relate to conjunctival hyperemia. The once-daily dosing schedule is advantageous for individuals who have difficulties with medication adherence. Further studies of a combination of netarsudil and latanoprost agents are currently underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Dasso
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Tala Al-Khaled
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Sriram Sonty
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,
| | - Ahmad A Aref
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA,
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16
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Inhibition of Rho kinase by GSK 269962 reverses both corticosterone-induced detrusor overactivity and depression-like behaviour in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 837:127-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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17
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ROCK inhibition in models of neurodegeneration and its potential for clinical translation. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 189:1-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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18
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Suppressive effect of Rho-kinase inhibitors Y-27632 and fasudil on spike-and-wave discharges in genetic absence epilepsy rats from Strasbourg (GAERS). Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2018; 391:1275-1283. [PMID: 30073384 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-018-1546-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Rho/Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling contributes to neuroinflammation, epileptogenesis, and seizures in convulsive-type epilepsies. However, this pathway has not been investigated in absence epilepsy. We investigated RhoA activity in genetic absence epilepsy rats from Strasburg (GAERS) and the effects of ROCK inhibitors Y-27632 and fasudil on spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) of GAERS. ROCK level and activity were measured by Western blot analysis in the brain areas involved in absence seizures (i.e., cortex and thalamus) and hippocampus. Male GAERS were stereotaxically implanted with bilateral cortical electrodes for electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings and/or guide cannula into the right ventricle. ROCK inhibitors were administered by intraperitoneal injection (1-10 mg/kg for Y-27632 or fasudil) or intracerebroventricular injection (7-20 nmol/5 μl for Y-27632 or 10-100 nmol/5 μl for fasudil). EEG was recorded under freely moving conditions. Compared with Wistar rats, GAERS exhibited increased RhoA activity in the somatosensory cortex but not in the thalamus or hippocampus. The single systemic administration of Y-27632 and fasudil partially suppressed the duration and frequency of absence seizure, respectively. However, local brain administration caused a widespread suppressive effect on the total seizure duration, number of seizures, and the average individual seizure length. In summary, Rho/ROCK signaling may be involved in the pathophysiology of absence epilepsy. Furthermore, ROCK inhibitors can control the expression of absence seizure in GAERS, thus indicating that Y-27632 and fasudil have the potential to be used as novel anti-absence drugs.
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19
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Impact of the clinical use of ROCK inhibitor on the pathogenesis and treatment of glaucoma. Jpn J Ophthalmol 2018; 62:109-126. [DOI: 10.1007/s10384-018-0566-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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20
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Huang X, Yang Y, Zhao Y, Cao D, Ai X, Zeng A, Gou M, Cai L, Yang H, Zhao C. RhoA-stimulated intra-capillary morphology switch facilitates the arrest of individual circulating tumor cells. Int J Cancer 2018; 142:2094-2105. [PMID: 29277889 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.31238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is the primary cause of death for most cancer patients. Hematogenous arrest of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is an essential prerequisite for metastases formation. Using transparent transgenic zebrafish (kdrl:eGFP; Casper), together with resonant laser scanning confocal microscopy, we tracked the fate of CTCs in vivo in the blood circulation for days. We found the intra-capillary morphology-switch (ICMS) of individual CTCs from strip to sphere was necessary for their intravascular arrests. Further genetic and pharmacological inhibition experiments indicated that the RhoA signaling was necessary for ICMS and the arrest of CTCs. At last, we demonstrated that early treatment by a clinically approved RhoA/ROCK inhibitor, Fasudil, could efficiently inhibit the initial arrest of individual CTCs and reduce the incidence of tumor metastasis in both zebrafish and mouse models. These results together indicate that RhoA-stimulated ICMS represents a mechanism for the arrest of individual CTCs, providing a potential target for future treatments of hematogenous metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuwei Zhao
- Blood Research Laboratory, Chengdu blood Center, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Anqi Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Maling Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lulu Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.,Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanshuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
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21
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Dikopf MS, Vajaranant TS, Edward DP. Topical treatment of glaucoma: established and emerging pharmacology. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2017; 18:885-898. [PMID: 28480761 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2017.1328498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glaucoma is a collection of optic neuropathies consisting of retinal ganglion cell death and corresponding visual field loss. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide and is forecasted to precipitously increase in prevalence in the coming decades. Current treatment options aim to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) via topical or oral therapy, laser treatment to the trabecular meshwork or ciliary body, and incisional surgery. Despite increasing use of trabecular laser therapy, topical therapy remains first-line in the treatment of most forms of glaucoma. Areas covered: Novel glaucoma therapies are a long-standing focus of investigational study. More than two decades have passed since the last United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of a topical glaucoma drug. Here, the authors review established topical glaucoma drops as well as those currently in FDA phase 2 and 3 clinical trial, nearing clinical use. Expert opinion: Current investigational glaucoma drugs lower IOP, mainly through enhanced trabecular meshwork outflow. Although few emerging therapies show evidence of retinal ganglion cell and optic nerve neuroprotection in animal models, emerging drugs are focused on lowering IOP, similar to established medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Dikopf
- a Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Thasarat S Vajaranant
- a Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Deepak P Edward
- b King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital , Riyadh , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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22
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Nuzzi R, Tridico F. Glaucoma: Biological Trabecular and Neuroretinal Pathology with Perspectives of Therapy Innovation and Preventive Diagnosis. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:494. [PMID: 28928631 PMCID: PMC5591842 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common degenerative disease affecting retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and optic nerve axons, with progressive and chronic course. It is one of the most important reasons of social blindness in industrialized countries. Glaucoma can lead to the development of irreversible visual field loss, if not treated. Diagnosis may be difficult due to lack of symptoms in early stages of disease. In many cases, when patients arrive at clinical evaluation, a severe neuronal damage may have already occurred. In recent years, newer perspective in glaucoma treatment have emerged. The current research is focusing on finding newer drugs and associations or better delivery systems in order to improve the pharmacological treatment and patient compliance. Moreover, the application of various stem cell types with restorative and neuroprotective intent may be found appealing (intravitreal autologous cellular therapy). Advances are made also in terms of parasurgical treatment, characterized by various laser types and techniques. Moreover, recent research has led to the development of central and peripheral retinal rehabilitation (featuring residing cells reactivation and replacement of defective elements), as well as innovations in diagnosis through more specific and refined methods and inexpensive tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Nuzzi
- Eye Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Ophthalmic HospitalTurin, Italy
| | - Federico Tridico
- Eye Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Ophthalmic HospitalTurin, Italy
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23
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Jutley G, Luk SM, Dehabadi MH, Cordeiro MF. Management of glaucoma as a neurodegenerative disease. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2017; 7:157-172. [PMID: 28540772 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2017-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease with an estimated prevalence of 60 million people, and the most common cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The mainstay of treatment has been aimed at lowering intraocular pressure, currently the only modifiable risk factor. Unfortunately, despite adequate pressure control, many patients go on to suffer irreversible visual loss. We first briefly examine currently established intraocular pressure lowering-treatments, with a discussion of their roles in neuroprotection as demonstrated by both animal and clinical studies. The review then examines currently available intraocular pressure independent agents that have shown promise for possessing neuroprotective effects in the management of glaucoma. Finally, we explore potential future treatments such as immune-modulation, stem cell therapy and neural regeneration as they may provide further protection against the neurodegenerative processes involved in glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurjeet Jutley
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare Trust, London, UK
| | - Sheila Mh Luk
- Medical Retina, Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mohammad H Dehabadi
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,Medical Retina, Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare Trust, London, UK
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24
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He R, Han W, Song X, Tang X, Cheng L, Jiang L. Effect of fasudil on cognitive function following status convulsion in rats. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:119-126. [PMID: 28534935 PMCID: PMC5482154 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasudil has been demonstrated to possess a protective effect in neural injury; however, its protective effect on convulsive brain injury remains to be assessed. The aim of the present study was to investigate the latent mechanism and effect of fasudil on cognitive function following status convulsion (SC) in rats. Initially, to determine the effects of SC, the expression levels of Ras homolog gene family, member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway-associated proteins were measured by western blot analysis in 16 rats. To investigate the effects of fasudil on cognitive function in SC rats, a further 40 rats were assigned to four groups: Group I (healthy untreated rats), group II (healthy rats treated with fasudil), group III (SC rats) and group IV (SC rats treated with fasudil). An object-in-place memory task and the Morris Water Maze test were subsequently performed. Histopathological alterations in brain tissue and SC latency were additionally analyzed. Following SC, protein expression levels of myelin-associated glycoprotein, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein and leucine rich repeat and immunoglobulin-like domain-containing protein 1 were significantly increased (P<0.05) and levels of neurite outgrowth inhibitor protein A were significantly decreased (P<0.01). SC had no effect on RhoA level (P=0.921); however, it significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated RhoA (P<0.01). Cognitive function was significantly decreased following SC and significantly increased following fasudil intervention. Fasudil intervention improved CA1 structure, which was lost following SC. SC severely impaired cognitive function and affected the expression of neurite growth inhibitory factors. Fasudil treatment improved cognitive function and central nervous system (CNS) injury, and decreased SC susceptibility in rats. Fasudil and SC may regulate the CNS by affecting the expression of neurite growth inhibitory factors in the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong He
- Department of Emergency, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Wei Han
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojie Song
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoju Tang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Li Cheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
| | - Li Jiang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing 400014, P.R. China
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25
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Rho-Kinase/ROCK as a Potential Drug Target for Vitreoretinal Diseases. J Ophthalmol 2017; 2017:8543592. [PMID: 28596919 PMCID: PMC5449758 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8543592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho-associated kinase (Rho-kinase/ROCK) was originally identified as an effector protein of the G protein Rho. Its involvement in various diseases, particularly cancer and cardiovascular disease, has been elucidated, and ROCK inhibitors have already been applied clinically for cerebral vasospasm and glaucoma. Vitreoretinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and proliferative vitreoretinoapthy are still a major cause of blindness. While anti-VEGF therapy has recently been widely used for vitreoretinal disorders due to its efficacy, attention has been drawn to new unmet needs. The importance of ROCK in pathological vitreoretinal conditions has also been elucidated and is attracting attention as a potential therapeutic target. ROCK is involved in angiogenesis and hyperpermeability and also in the pathogenesis of various pathologies such as inflammation and fibrosis. It has been expected that ROCK inhibitors will become new molecular target drugs for vitreoretinal diseases. This review summarizes the recent progress on the mechanisms of action of ROCK and their applications in disease treatment.
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26
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Additive Intraocular Pressure-Lowering Effects of Ripasudil with Glaucoma Therapeutic Agents in Rabbits and Monkeys. J Ophthalmol 2017; 2017:7079645. [PMID: 28540083 PMCID: PMC5429944 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7079645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ripasudil hydrochloride hydrate (K-115), a specific Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, is developed for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Topical administration of ripasudil decreases intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing conventional outflow through the trabeculae to Schlemm's canal, which is different from existing agents that suppress aqueous humor production or promote uveoscleral outflow. In this study, we demonstrated that ripasudil significantly lowered IOP in combined regimens with other glaucoma therapeutic agents in rabbits and monkeys. Ripasudil showed additional effects on maximum IOP lowering or prolonged the duration of IOP-lowering effects with combined administration of timolol, nipradilol, brimonidine, brinzolamide, latanoprost, latanoprost/timolol fixed combination, and dorzolamide/timolol fixed combination. These results indicate that facilitation of conventional outflow by ripasudil provides additive IOP-lowering effect with other classes of antiglaucoma agents. Ripasudil is expected to have substantial utility in combined regimens with existing agents for glaucoma treatment.
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Guo W, Cai Y, Zhang H, Yang Y, Yang G, Wang X, Zhao J, Lin J, Zhu J, Li W, Lv L. Association of ARHGAP18 polymorphisms with schizophrenia in the Chinese-Han population. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175209. [PMID: 28384650 PMCID: PMC5383423 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous developmental genes have been linked to schizophrenia (SZ) by case-control and genome-wide association studies, suggesting that neurodevelopmental disturbances are major pathogenic mechanisms. However, no neurodevelopmental deficit has been definitively linked to SZ occurrence, likely due to disease heterogeneity and the differential effects of various gene variants across ethnicities. Hence, it is critical to examine linkages in specific ethnic populations, such as Han Chinese. The newly identified RhoGAP ARHGAP18 is likely involved in neurodevelopment through regulation of RhoA/C. Here we describe four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in ARHGAP18 associated with SZ across a cohort of >2000 cases and controls from the Han population. Two SNPs, rs7758025 and rs9483050, displayed significant differences between case and control groups both in genotype (P = 0.0002 and P = 7.54×10−6) and allelic frequencies (P = 4.36×10−5 and P = 5.98×10−7), respectively. The AG haplotype in rs7758025−rs9385502 was strongly associated with the occurrence of SZ (P = 0.0012, OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.48–0.93), an association that still held following a 1000-times random permutation test (P = 0.022). In an independently collected validation cohort, rs9483050 was the SNP most strongly associated with SZ. In addition, the allelic frequencies of rs12197901 remained associated with SZ in the combined cohort (P = 0.021), although not in the validation cohort alone (P = 0.251). Collectively, our data suggest the ARHGAP18 may confer vulnerability to SZ in the Chinese Han population, providing additional evidence for the involvement of neurodevelopmental dysfunction in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyun Guo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yaqi Cai
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Hongxing Zhang
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yongfeng Yang
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ge Yang
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiujuan Wang
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Juntang Lin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Institute of Anatomy I, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Jinfu Zhu
- Institute of Anatomy I, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Luxian Lv
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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Role of the Rho GTPase/Rho kinase signaling pathway in pathogenesis and treatment of glaucoma: Bench to bedside research. Exp Eye Res 2016; 158:23-32. [PMID: 27593914 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is considered to be a predominant risk factor for primary open angle glaucoma, the most prevalent form of glaucoma. Although the etiological mechanisms responsible for increased IOP are not completely clear, impairment in aqueous humor (AH) drainage through the conventional or trabecular pathway is recognized to be a primary cause in glaucoma patients. Importantly, lowering of IOP has been demonstrated to reduce progression of vision loss and is a mainstay of treatment for all types of glaucoma. Currently however, there are limited therapeutic options available for lowering IOP especially as it relates to enhancement of AH outflow through the trabecular pathway. Towards addressing this challenge, bench and bedside research conducted over the course of the last decade and a half has identified the significance of inhibiting Rho kinase for lowering IOP. Rho kinase is a downstream effector of Rho GTPase signaling that regulates actomyosin dynamics in numerous cell types. Studies from several laboratories have demonstrated that inhibition of Rho kinase lowers IOP via relaxation of the trabecular meshwork which enhances AH outflow. By contrast, activation of Rho GTPase/Rho kinase signaling in the trabecular outflow pathway increases IOP by altering the contractile, cell adhesive and permeability barrier characteristics of the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal tissues, and by influencing extracellular matrix production and fibrotic activity. This article, written in honor of the late David Epstein, MD, summarizes findings from both basic and clinical studies that have been instrumental for recognition of the importance of the Rho/Rho kinase signaling pathway in regulation of AH outflow, and in the development of Rho kinase inhibitors as promising IOP- lowering agents for glaucoma treatment.
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Hollanders K, Hove IV, Sergeys J, Bergen TV, Lefevere E, Kindt N, Castermans K, Vandewalle E, van Pelt J, Moons L, Stalmans I. AMA0428, A Potent Rock Inhibitor, Attenuates Early and Late Experimental Diabetic Retinopathy. Curr Eye Res 2016; 42:260-272. [PMID: 27399806 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2016.1183030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by an early stage of inflammation and vessel leakage, and an advanced vasoproliferative stage. Also, neurodegeneration might play an important role in disease pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, AMA0428, on these processes. METHODS The response to ROCK inhibition by AMA0428 (1 µg) was studied in vivo using the murine model for streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes, focusing on early non-proliferative DR features and the oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model to investigate proliferative DR. Intravitreal (IVT) administration of AMA0428 was compared with murine anti-VEGF-R2 antibody (DC101, 6.2 µg) and placebo (H2O/PEG; 1C8). Outcome was assessed by analyzing leukostasis using fluorescein isothiocyanate coupled concanavalin A (FITC-ConA) and vessel leakage (bovine serum albumin conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate; FITC-BSA)/neovascularization and neurodegeneration by immunohistological approaches (hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), Brn3a). ELISA and Western blotting were employed to unravel the consequences of ROCK inhibition (1 µM AMA0428) on myosin phosphatase target protein (MYPT)-1 phosphorylation, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in retinas of diabetic mice, on NF-κβ activity and ICAM-1 expression in endothelial cells (ECs). RESULTS In vivo, AMA0428 significantly reduced vessel leakage and neovascularization, respectively, in the STZ and OIR model, comparable to DC101 therapy. Additionally, the ROCK inhibitor decreased neurodegeneration in both models and inhibited leukostasis by 30% (p < 0.05) in the STZ model (p < 0.05), while DC101 had no positive effect on the outcome of these latter processes. ROCK activity was upregulated in the diabetic retina and AMA0428 administration resulted in decreased phospho-MYPT-1, enhanced phospho-eNOS, and reduced VEGF levels. In vitro, AMA0428 interfered with NF-κβ activity, thereby inhibiting ICAM-1 expression in ECs. CONCLUSIONS Targeting ROCK with AMA0428 effectively attenuated outcome in an early DR model (STZ) and a late vasoproliferative retinopathy model (OIR). These findings make AMA0428 a promising candidate with an additional anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefit for DR patients, as compared with anti-VEGF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolien Hollanders
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,b Department of Ophthalmology , University Hospitals Ghent , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Inge Van Hove
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,c Department of Biology, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Jurgen Sergeys
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,c Department of Biology, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Tine Van Bergen
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Evy Lefevere
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,c Department of Biology, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | | | | | - Evelien Vandewalle
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,e Department of Ophthalmology , University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Jos van Pelt
- f Department of Hepatology , University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- c Department of Biology, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Ingeborg Stalmans
- a Department of Ophthalmology , KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium.,e Department of Ophthalmology , University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven-University of Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
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Donegan RK, Lieberman RL. Discovery of Molecular Therapeutics for Glaucoma: Challenges, Successes, and Promising Directions. J Med Chem 2016; 59:788-809. [PMID: 26356532 PMCID: PMC5547565 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b00828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma, a heterogeneous ocular disorder affecting ∼60 million people worldwide, is characterized by painless neurodegeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), resulting in irreversible vision loss. Available therapies, which decrease the common causal risk factor of elevated intraocular pressure, delay, but cannot prevent, RGC death and blindness. Notably, it is changes in the anterior segment of the eye, particularly in the drainage of aqueous humor fluid, which are believed to bring about changes in pressure. Thus, it is primarily this region whose properties are manipulated in current and emerging therapies for glaucoma. Here, we focus on the challenges associated with developing treatments, review the available experimental methods to evaluate the therapeutic potential of new drugs, describe the development and evaluation of emerging Rho-kinase inhibitors and adenosine receptor ligands that offer the potential to improve aqueous humor outflow and protect RGCs simultaneously, and present new targets and approaches on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Donegan
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology , 901 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
| | - Raquel L Lieberman
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology , 901 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0400, United States
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32
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Kuan SL, Förtsch C, Ng DYW, Fischer S, Tokura Y, Liu W, Wu Y, Koynov K, Barth H, Weil T. A Supramolecular Approach toward Bioinspired PAMAM-Dendronized Fusion Toxins. Macromol Biosci 2016; 16:803-10. [PMID: 26833574 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201500417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Nature has provided a highly optimized toolbox in bacterial endotoxins with precise functions dictated by their clear structural division. Inspired by this streamlined design, a supramolecular approach capitalizing on the strong biomolecular (streptavidin (SA))-biotin interactions is reported herein to prepare two multipartite fusion constructs, which involves the generation 2.0 (D2) or generation 3.0 (D3) polyamidoamine-dendronized transporter proteins (dendronized streptavidin (D3SA) and dendronized human serum albumin (D2HSA)) non-covalently fused to the C3bot1 enzyme from Clostridium botulinum, a potent and specific Rho-inhibitor. The fusion constructs, D3SA-C3 and D2HSA-C3, represent the first examples of dendronized protein transporters that are fused to the C3 enzyme, and it is successfully demonstrated that the C3 Rho-inhibitor is delivered into the cytosol of mammalian cells as determined from the characteristic C3-mediated changes in cell morphology and confocal microscopy. The design circumvents the low uptake of the C3 enzyme by eukaryotic cells and holds great promise for reprogramming the properties of toxin enzymes using a supramolecular approach to broaden their therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seah Ling Kuan
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christina Förtsch
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ulm Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - David Yuen Wah Ng
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Stephan Fischer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ulm Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yu Tokura
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Weina Liu
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yuzhou Wu
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kaloian Koynov
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Ackermannweg 10, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Holger Barth
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Ulm Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tanja Weil
- Institute of Organic Chemistry III - Macromolecular Chemistry & Biomaterials, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
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33
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Wang X, Wang B, Li Z, Zhu G, Heng L, Zhu X, Yang Q, Ma J, Gao G. Neuroprotection effect of Y-27632 against H2O2-induced cell apoptosis of primary cultured cortical neurons. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra03284b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Y-27632 protects the cortical neurons from H2O2-induced apoptosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and activation of JNK and p38 MAPKs pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingqin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Bao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Zhenzhen Li
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery
- Xijing Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710032
- China
| | - Gang Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Lijun Heng
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Xianke Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics
- No. 150 Central Hospital of PLA
- Luoyang
- China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
| | - Guodong Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery
- Tangdu Hospital
- Fourth Military Medical University
- Xi'an 710038
- China
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Van de Velde S, De Groef L, Stalmans I, Moons L, Van Hove I. Towards axonal regeneration and neuroprotection in glaucoma: Rho kinase inhibitors as promising therapeutics. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 131:105-19. [PMID: 26093354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Due to a prolonged life expectancy worldwide, the incidence of age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as glaucoma is increasing. Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness, resulting from a slow and progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Up to now, intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is the only treatment modality by which ophthalmologists attempt to control disease progression. However, not all patients benefit from this therapy, and the pathophysiology of glaucoma is not always associated with an elevated IOP. These limitations, together with the multifactorial etiology of glaucoma, urge the pressing medical need for novel and alternative treatment strategies. Such new therapies should focus on preventing or retarding RGC death, but also on repair of injured axons, to ultimately preserve or improve structural and functional connectivity. In this respect, Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors hold a promising potential to become very prominent drugs for future glaucoma treatment. Their field of action in the eye does not seem to be restricted to IOP reduction by targeting the trabecular meshwork or improving filtration surgery outcome. Indeed, over the past years, important progress has been made in elucidating their ability to improve ocular blood flow, to prevent RGC death/increase RGC survival and to retard axonal degeneration or induce proper axonal regeneration. Within this review, we aim to highlight the currently known capacity of ROCK inhibition to promote neuroprotection and regeneration in several in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experimental glaucoma models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Van de Velde
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ingeborg Stalmans
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Inge Van Hove
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Zhang T, Wei Y, Jiang X, Li J, Qiu S, Zhang S. Protection of photoreceptors by intravitreal injection of the Y-27632 Rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor in Royal College of Surgeons rats. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:3655-3661. [PMID: 26043901 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal disease, which is characteristic by degeneration of the rod and cone photoreceptors. The present study aimed to assess the protective effects on photoreceptors of intravitreal injection of Y‑27632, a specific inhibitor of Rho‑associated protein kinase (ROCK), in a Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat model. Different concentrations of Y‑27632 (1‑50 mM) were administered by intravitreal injection into the RCS rats. The effects of Y‑27632 were recorded using electroretinography (ERG), measuring the thicknesses of the retinal outer nuclear layer (ONL) and examination of apoptotic markers using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and western blot analysis. Treatment of the eyes with Y27632 at 10 or 50 mM, led to a 30% increase in a‑ and b‑wave amplitudes in ERG, and an increase in ONL thickness by 10%, compared with the 1 mM Y‑27632‑treated and vehicle (phosphate‑buffered saline; PBS)‑treated groups. In addition, eyes treated with 10 mM Y27632 exhibited a 90% decrease in TUNEL‑positive cells, accompanied by decreased protein expression levels of active caspase 3 and Bax by 50%, and a 90% increase in the ratio of Bcl‑2/Bax, compared with the PBS‑treated groups. These data suggested that Y‑27632 protected retinal function by inhibiting the apoptosis of photoreceptor cells in the RCS rat model. The present study demonstrated for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, to report the use of Y‑27632 for protection against RP in an RCS rat model. Y‑27632 may be a potential candidate for the treatment of human RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
| | - Yantao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
| | - Xintong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
| | - Jingming Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330000, P.R. China
| | - Suo Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
| | - Shaochong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‑Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510060, P.R. China
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Inan SY, Soner BC, Sahin AS. Infralimbic cortex Rho-kinase inhibition causes antidepressant-like activity in rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2015; 57:36-43. [PMID: 25445474 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders in the world; however, its mechanisms remain unclear. Recently, a new signal-transduction pathway, namely Rho/Rho-kinase signalling, has been suggested to be involved in diverse cellular events in the central nervous system; such as epilepsy, anxiety-related behaviors, regulation of dendritic and axonal morphology, antinociception, subarachnoid haemorrhage, spinal cord injury and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However there is no evidence showing the involvement of Rho-kinase pathway in depression. In addition, the infralimbic cortex, rodent equivalent to subgenual cingulate cortex has been shown to be responsible for emotional responses. Thus, in the present study, intracranial guide cannulae were stereotaxically implanted bilaterally into the infralimbic cortex, and the effects of repeated microinjections of a Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y-27632 (10 nmol) were investigated in rats. Y-27632 significantly decreased immobility time and increased swimming and climbing behaviors when compared to fluoxetine (10 μg) and saline groups in the forced swim test. In addition, Y-27632 treatment did not affect spontaneous locomotor activity and forelimb use in the open-field and cylinder tests respectively; but it enhanced limb placing accuracy in the ladder rung walking test. Our results suggest that Y-27632 could be a potentially active antidepressant agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Yalcin Inan
- Department of Pharmacology, Meram Faculty of Medicine, University of Konya-NE, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Burak Cem Soner
- Department of Pharmacology, Meram Faculty of Medicine, University of Konya-NE, Konya, Turkey
| | - Ayse Saide Sahin
- Department of Pharmacology, Meram Faculty of Medicine, University of Konya-NE, Konya, Turkey
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Wang X, Lin J, Arzeno A, Choi JY, Boccio J, Frieden E, Bhargava A, Maynard G, Tsai JC, Strittmatter SM. Intravitreal delivery of human NgR-Fc decoy protein regenerates axons after optic nerve crush and protects ganglion cells in glaucoma models. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015; 56:1357-66. [PMID: 25655801 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-15472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss due to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration. Therapeutic intervention controls increased IOP, but neuroprotection is unavailable. NogoReceptor1 (NgR1) limits adult central nervous system (CNS) axonal sprouting and regeneration. We examined NgR1 blocking decoy as a potential therapy by defining the pharmacokinetics of intravitreal NgR(310)-Fc, its promotion of RGC axonal regeneration following nerve crush, and its neuroprotective effect in a microbead glaucoma model. METHODS Human NgR1(310)-Fc was administered intravitreally, and levels were monitored in rat vitreal humor and retina. Axonal regeneration after optic nerve crush was assessed by cholera toxin β anterograde labeling. In a microbead model of glaucoma with increased IOP, the number of surviving and actively transporting RGCs was determined after 4 weeks by retrograde tracing with Fluro-Gold (FG) from the superior colliculus. RESULTS After intravitreal bolus administration, the terminal half-life of NgR1(310)-Fc between 1 and 7 days was approximately 24 hours. Injection of 5 μg protein once per week after optic nerve crush injury significantly increased RGCs with regenerating axons. Microbeads delivered to the anterior chamber increased pressure, and caused 15% reduction in FG-labeled RGCs of control rats, with a 40% reduction in large diameter RGCs. Intravitreal treatment with NgR1(310)-Fc did not reduce IOP, but maintained large diameter RGC density at control levels. CONCLUSIONS Human NgR1(310)-Fc has favorable pharmacokinetics in the vitreal space and rescues large diameter RGC counts from increased IOP. Thus, the NgR1 blocking decoy protein may have efficacy as a disease-modifying therapy for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Wang
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration & Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Alexander Arzeno
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration & Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Jin Young Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Juliann Boccio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Eric Frieden
- Axerion Therapeutics, Branford, Connecticut, United States
| | - Ajay Bhargava
- Shakti BioResearch, Woodbridge, Connecticut, United States
| | - George Maynard
- Axerion Therapeutics, Branford, Connecticut, United States
| | - James C Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Stephen M Strittmatter
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration & Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
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Cholkar K, Trinh HM, Pal D, Mitra AK. Discovery of novel inhibitors for the treatment of glaucoma. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2015; 10:293-313. [PMID: 25575654 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2015.1000857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease with heterogeneous causes that result in retinal ganglionic cell (RGC) death. The discovery of ocular antihypertensives has shifted glaucoma therapy, largely, from surgery to medical intervention. Indeed, several intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering drugs, with different mechanisms of action and RGC protective property, have been developed. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors discuss the main new class of kinase inhibitors used as glaucoma treatments, which lower IOP by enhancing drainage and/or lowering production of aqueous humor. The authors include novel inhibitors under preclinical evaluation and investigation for their anti-glaucoma treatment. Additionally, the authors look at treatments that are in clinics now and which may be available in the near future. EXPERT OPINION Treatment of glaucoma remains challenging because the exact cause is yet to be delineated. Neuroprotection to the optic nerve head is undisputable. The novel Rho-associated kinase inhibitors have the capacity to lower IOP and provide optic nerve and RGC protection. In particular, the S-isomer of roscovitine has the capacity to lower IOP and provide neuroprotection. Combinations of selected drugs, which can provide maximal and sustained IOP-lowering effects as well as neuroprotection, are paramount to the prevention of glaucoma progression. In the near future, microRNA intervention may be considered as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishore Cholkar
- University of Missouri-Kansas City, School of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences , 5258 Health Science Building, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64108-2718 , USA +1 816 235 1615 ; +1 816 235 5779 ;
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Ma S, Deng J, Li B, Li X, Yan Z, Zhu J, Chen G, Wang Z, Jiang H, Miao L, Li J. Development of Second-Generation Small-Molecule RhoA Inhibitors with Enhanced Water Solubility, Tissue Potency, and Significant in vivo Efficacy. ChemMedChem 2014; 10:193-206. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201402386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Stankiewicz TR, Linseman DA. Rho family GTPases: key players in neuronal development, neuronal survival, and neurodegeneration. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:314. [PMID: 25339865 PMCID: PMC4187614 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Rho family of GTPases belongs to the Ras superfamily of low molecular weight (∼21 kDa) guanine nucleotide binding proteins. The most extensively studied members are RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42. In the last few decades, studies have demonstrated that Rho family GTPases are important regulatory molecules that link surface receptors to the organization of the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. Indeed, Rho GTPases mediate many diverse critical cellular processes, such as gene transcription, cell–cell adhesion, and cell cycle progression. However, Rho GTPases also play an essential role in regulating neuronal morphology. In particular, Rho GTPases regulate dendritic arborization, spine morphogenesis, growth cone development, and axon guidance. In addition, more recent efforts have underscored an important function for Rho GTPases in regulating neuronal survival and death. Interestingly, Rho GTPases can exert either a pro-survival or pro-death signal in neurons depending upon both the cell type and neurotoxic insult involved. This review summarizes key findings delineating the involvement of Rho GTPases and their effectors in the regulation of neuronal survival and death. Collectively, these results suggest that dysregulation of Rho family GTPases may potentially underscore the etiology of some forms of neurodegenerative disease such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha R Stankiewicz
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Denver, CO, USA ; Department of Biological Sciences and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute, University of Denver Denver, CO, USA
| | - Daniel A Linseman
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Denver, CO, USA ; Department of Biological Sciences and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute, University of Denver Denver, CO, USA ; Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Medicine and Neuroscience Program, University of Colorado Denver Aurora, CO, USA
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Neuroprotective effects of C3 exoenzyme in excitotoxic retinopathy. Exp Eye Res 2014; 125:128-34. [PMID: 24928315 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2014.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of C3 exoenzyme (C3) on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-induced retinopathy in rats. C3 was expressed in Escherichia. coli and purified by affinity chromatography. Immunofluorescence was performed in NIH 3T3 cells treated with C3 to verify the cellular uptake of the protein. NMDA was injected intravitreally into rat eyes with or without C3. At various time points after injection, eyes were enucleated. Hematoxylin/eosin staining was performed on retina cross-sections for morphological analysis. Survival and apoptosis of cells in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) were assessed by cresyl violet staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) on retina flat-mounts. RhoA levels in retina cells were evaluated by Western blot to detect C3 uptake in vivo. The cellular uptake of C3 was verified by immunofluorescence. Damage including a decrease in inner plexiform layer (IPL) thickness and reduction of cell density in the GCL, corresponding to apoptosis of neurons, was induced by intravitreal injection of NMDA. Protection against this damage was observed following co-injection of C3 and NMDA. RhoA ADP-ribosylation induced by C3 was confirmed by Western blot. Our results suggest that C3 exerts neuroprotective effects against excitotoxic damage induced by NMDA.
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Abstract
Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitors are a novel potential class of glaucoma therapeutics with multiple compounds currently in Phase II and III US Food and Drug Administration trials in the United States. These selective agents work by relaxing the trabecular meshwork through inhibition of the actin cytoskeleton contractile tone of smooth muscle. This results in increased aqueous outflow directly through the trabecular meshwork, achieving lower intraocular pressures in a range similar to prostaglandins. There are also animal studies indicating that ROCK inhibitors may improve blood flow to the optic nerve, increase ganglion cell survival, and reduce bleb scarring in glaucoma surgery. Given the multiple beneficial effects for glaucoma patients, ROCK inhibitors are certainly a highly anticipated emerging treatment option for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert T Chang
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Wan H, AlHarbi BM, Macdonald RL. Mechanisms, treatment and prevention of cellular injury and death from delayed events after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2013; 15:231-43. [PMID: 24283706 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2014.865724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients often develop brain injury as a result of a number of delayed complications, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Many of these complications arise due to delayed cerebral ischemia, which occurs secondary to the hemorrhage. AREAS COVERED The mechanisms of the delayed injury are reviewed, including angiographic vasospasm, cortical spreading ischemia, small arteriolar constriction, microthromboemboli, free radical injury and inflammation. Some current and prospective therapies for SAH are discussed, in the context of these complications. Statins have been particularly promising in experimental studies. EXPERT OPINION Multiple mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of the delayed insult after SAH. New drugs may need to target multiple pathways to injury. Trials aiming to treat complications after SAH could benefit from taking into account the multifactorial pathogenesis of delayed insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoyee Wan
- University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Labatt Family Centre of Excellence in Brain Injury and Trauma Research, Keenan Research Centre of the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery , Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8 , Canada
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Inoue T, Tanihara H. Rho-associated kinase inhibitors: A novel glaucoma therapy. Prog Retin Eye Res 2013; 37:1-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2013.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Wang J, Liu X, Zhong Y. Rho/Rho-associated kinase pathway in glaucoma (Review). Int J Oncol 2013; 43:1357-67. [PMID: 24042317 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2013.2100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The Rho/ROCK pathway plays important roles in the modulation of the cytoskeletal integrity of cells, the synthesis of extracellular matrix components in the aqueous humor outflow tissue and the permeability of Schlemm's canal endothelial cells. The activation of the Rho/ROCK pathway results in trabecular meshwork (TM) contraction, and the inhibition of this pathway would provoke relaxation of TM with subsequent increase in outflow facility and, thereby, decrease intraocular pressure (IOP). ROCK inhibitors also serve as potent anti‑scarring agents via inhibition of transdifferentiation of tenon fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Furthermore, the RhoA/ROCK pathway is involved in optic nerve neuroprotection. Inactivation of Rho/ROCK signaling increase ocular blood flow, improve retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and promote RGC axon regeneration. Considering the IOP modulation, potent bleb anti-scarring effect and neuroprotective properties of ROCK inhibitors, the Rho/ROCK pathway is an attractive target for anti-glaucoma therapy, and it may be used for human therapy in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated Medical School, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
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Abstract
In the developing brain, dendrite branches and dendritic spines form and turn over dynamically. By contrast, most dendrite arbors and dendritic spines in the adult brain are stable for months, years and possibly even decades. Emerging evidence reveals that dendritic spine and dendrite arbor stability have crucial roles in the correct functioning of the adult brain and that loss of stability is associated with psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent findings have provided insights into the molecular mechanisms that underlie long-term dendrite stabilization, how these mechanisms differ from those used to mediate structural plasticity and how they are disrupted in disease.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To determine changes in the expression profile of RhoA and Rho kinase (ROCK-1 and ROCK-2) in the aqueous humor outflow pathway and optic nerve head (ONH) of human eyes with or without glaucoma to explore their potential involvement in glaucoma pathophysiology. METHODS Age-matched paraffin-embedded postmortem eyes from patients with or without glaucoma were stained immunohistochemically using polyclonal antibodies raised against RhoA, ROCK-1, and ROCK-2. The intensity of the immunostaining in the aqueous humor outflow pathway and the ONH was graded by 4 individuals who were masked concerning whether the eyes were from normal individuals or those with glaucoma. RESULTS Both normal eyes and those with glaucoma showed a positive staining for RhoA, ROCK-1, and ROCK-2 in the trabecular meshwork, ciliary muscle, and ONH. There was a significant increase in the RhoA protein levels in the glaucomatous ONH compared with the age-matched controls. CONCLUSIONS Elevated levels of RhoA in the ONH of glaucomatous eyes suggest possible involvement of RhoA in the pathophysiology of glaucoma.
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Peng X, Gao H, Wang Y, Yang B, Liu T, Sun Y, Jin H, Jiang L, Li L, Wu M, Qian Q. Conversion of rat embryonic stem cells into neural precursors in chemical-defined medium. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 431:783-7. [PMID: 23321306 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rat embryonic stem (ES) cells hold great interest for the research of neurodevelopment and neurodegenerative diseases. However, neural conversion of rat ES cells in vitro has proven to be a challenge owing to the proliferation arrest and apoptosis. Here we report that rat ES cells can commit efficiently to a neural fate in the presence of CHIR99021 and Y-27632 (CY medium). In addition, CHIR99021 is crucial for maintaining the metabolic activity of differentiated rat ES cells, while Y-27632 facilitates the neural differentiation of rat ES cells by inhibiting bone morphogenetic protein expression. The chemical-defined CY medium also provides a platform for exploring the mechanism of neural commitment and optimizing the production efficiency of neural precursor from rat ES cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrong Peng
- Laboratory of Viral and Gene Therapy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
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Jeon BT, Jeong EA, Park SY, Son H, Shin HJ, Lee DH, Kim HJ, Kang SS, Cho GJ, Choi WS, Roh GS. The Rho-Kinase (ROCK) Inhibitor Y-27632 Protects Against Excitotoxicity-Induced Neuronal Death In Vivo and In Vitro. Neurotox Res 2012; 23:238-48. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-012-9339-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Ortiz-Sanchez JM, Nichols SE, Sayyah J, Brown JH, McCammon JA, Grant BJ. Identification of potential small molecule binding pockets on Rho family GTPases. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40809. [PMID: 22815826 PMCID: PMC3397943 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are conformational switches that control a wide variety of signaling pathways critical for eukaryotic cell development and proliferation. They represent attractive targets for drug design as their aberrant function and deregulated activity is associated with many human diseases including cancer. Extensive high-resolution structures (>100) and recent mutagenesis studies have laid the foundation for the design of new structure-based chemotherapeutic strategies. Although the inhibition of Rho signaling with drug-like compounds is an active area of current research, very little attention has been devoted to directly inhibiting Rho by targeting potential allosteric non-nucleotide binding sites. By avoiding the nucleotide binding site, compounds may minimize the potential for undesirable off-target interactions with other ubiquitous GTP and ATP binding proteins. Here we describe the application of molecular dynamics simulations, principal component analysis, sequence conservation analysis, and ensemble small-molecule fragment mapping to provide an extensive mapping of potential small-molecule binding pockets on Rho family members. Characterized sites include novel pockets in the vicinity of the conformationaly responsive switch regions as well as distal sites that appear to be related to the conformations of the nucleotide binding region. Furthermore the use of accelerated molecular dynamics simulation, an advanced sampling method that extends the accessible time-scale of conventional simulations, is found to enhance the characterization of novel binding sites when conformational changes are important for the protein mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Manuel Ortiz-Sanchez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JMO-S); (BJG)
| | - Sara E. Nichols
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Jacqueline Sayyah
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Joan Heller Brown
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - J. Andrew McCammon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Barry J. Grant
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JMO-S); (BJG)
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