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Zhang X, Wang X, Li Y, Zhang Y, Zhu H, Xie C, Zhou Y, Shen Y, Tong J. Characterization of Retinal VIP-Amacrine Cell Development During the Critical Period. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2024; 44:19. [PMID: 38315298 PMCID: PMC10844409 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-024-01452-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Retinal vasoactive intestinal peptide amacrine cells (VIP-ACs) play an important role in various retinal light-mediated pathological processes related to different developmental ocular diseases and even mental disorders. It is important to characterize the developmental changes in VIP-ACs to further elucidate their mechanisms of circuit function. We bred VIP-Cre mice with Ai14 and Ai32 to specifically label retinal VIP-ACs. The VIP-AC soma and spine density generally increased, from postnatal day (P)0 to P35, reaching adult levels at P14 and P28, respectively. The VIP-AC soma density curve was different with the VIP-AC spine density curve. The total retinal VIP content reached a high level plateau at P14 but was decreased in adults. From P14 to P16, the resting membrane potential (RMP) became more negative, and the input resistance decreased. Cell membrane capacitance (MC) showed three peaks at P7, P12 and P16. The RMP and MC reached a stable level similar to the adult level at P18, whereas input resistance reached a stable level at P21. The percentage of sustained voltage-dependent potassium currents peaked at P16 and remained stable thereafter. The spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic current frequencies and amplitudes, as well as charge transfer, peaked at P12 to P16; however, there were also secondary peaks at different time points. In conclusion, we found that the second, third and fourth weeks after birth were important periods of VIP-AC development. Many developmental changes occurred around eye opening. The development of soma, dendrite and electrophysiological properties showed uneven dynamics of progression. Cell differentiation may contribute to soma development whereas the changes of different ion channels may play important role for spine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
- Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.866 Yuhangtang Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanqing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
- Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.866 Yuhangtang Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yudong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China
- Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, No.866 Yuhangtang Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Zhejiang University, No.79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang, China.
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Wang HN, Qian WJ, Zhao GL, Li F, Miao YY, Lei B, Sun XH, Wang ZF. L- and T-type Ca 2+ channels dichotomously contribute to retinal ganglion cell injury in experimental glaucoma. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:1570-1577. [PMID: 36571364 PMCID: PMC10075096 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.360277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cell apoptotic death is the main pathological characteristic of glaucoma, which is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Disruption of Ca2+ homeostasis plays an important role in glaucoma. Voltage-gated Ca2+ channel blockers have been shown to improve vision in patients with glaucoma. However, whether and how voltage-gated Ca2+ channels are involved in retinal ganglion cell apoptotic death are largely unknown. In this study, we found that total Ca2+ current densities in retinal ganglion cells were reduced in a rat model of chronic ocular hypertension experimental glaucoma, as determined by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings. Further analysis showed that L-type Ca2+ currents were downregulated while T-type Ca2+ currents were upregulated at the later stage of glaucoma. Western blot assay and immunofluorescence experiments confirmed that expression of the CaV1.2 subunit of L-type Ca2+ channels was reduced and expression of the CaV3.3 subunit of T-type Ca2+ channels was increased in retinas of the chronic ocular hypertension model. Soluble tumor necrosis factor-α, an important inflammatory factor, inhibited the L-type Ca2+ current of isolated retinal ganglion cells from control rats and enhanced the T-type Ca2+ current. These changes were blocked by the tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor XPro1595, indicating that both types of Ca2+ currents may be mediated by soluble tumor necrosis factor-α. The intracellular mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway and nuclear factor kappa-B signaling pathway mediate the effects of tumor necrosis factor-α. TUNEL assays revealed that mibefradil, a T-type calcium channel blocker, reduced the number of apoptotic retinal ganglion cells in the rat model of chronic ocular hypertension. These results suggest that T-type Ca2+ channels are involved in disrupted Ca2+ homeostasis and apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma, and application of T-type Ca2+ channel blockers, especially a specific CaV3.3 blocker, may be a potential strategy for the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Li Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Ying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Lei
- Institutes of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Xing-Huai Sun
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong-Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Yin N, Wang HN, Ding WW, Zhou H, Li SY, Miao Y, Li F, Lei B, Wang Z. Dopamine receptor-mediated roles on retinal ganglion cell hyperexcitability and injury in experimental glaucoma. Cell Signal 2023:110781. [PMID: 37354963 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110781] [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: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Extraordinary excitability (hyperexcitability) is closely related to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) injury in glaucoma. Dopamine (DA) and its receptors are involved in modulating RGC excitability. We investigated how DA system affects RGC injury in chronic ocular hypertension (COH) experimental glaucoma model. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry results revealed that expression of DA D2-like receptor (D2R) in RGCs was increased in COH retinas. Patch-clamp recordings showed that outward K+ currents were downregulated, while Na+ currents and NaV1.6 expression were upregulated in RGCs of COH retinas, which could be reversed by intravitreal pre-injection of the D2R antagonist sulpiride, but not by the D1-like receptor (D1R) antagonist SCH23390. However, pre-injection of the D1R agonist SKF81297 could partially reverse the increased expression of NaV1.6 proteins. Consistently, the numbers of evoked action potentials induced by current injections were increased in RGCs of COH retinas, indicating that RGCs may be in a condition of hyperexcitability. The increased frequency of evoked action potentials could be partially block by pre-injection of sulpiride, SKF81297 or DA, respectively. Furthermore, the increased number of TUNEL-positive RGCs in COH retinas could be partially reduced by intravitreal pre-injection of sulpiride, but not by pre-injection of SCH23390. Moreover, pre-injection of SKF81297 or DA could reduce the number of TUNEL-positive RGCs in COH retinas. All these results indicate that in COH retina, activation of D2R enhances RGC hyperexcitability and injury, while activation of D1R results in the opposite effects. Selective inhibition of D2R or activation of D1R may be an effective strategy for treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hong-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wen-Wen Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Han Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shu-Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bo Lei
- Institutes of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Miao Y, Zhao GL, Cheng S, Wang Z, Yang XL. Activation of retinal glial cells contributes to the degeneration of ganglion cells in experimental glaucoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 93:101169. [PMID: 36736070 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factor for neurodegeneration in glaucoma. Glial cells, which play an important role in normal functioning of retinal neurons, are well involved into retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration in experimental glaucoma animal models generated by elevated IOP. In response to elevated IOP, mGluR I is first activated and Kir4.1 channels are subsequently inhibited, which leads to the activation of Müller cells. Müller cell activation is followed by a complex process, including proliferation, release of inflammatory and growth factors (gliosis). Gliosis is further regulated by several factors. Activated Müller cells contribute to RGC degeneration through generating glutamate receptor-mediated excitotoxicity, releasing cytotoxic factors and inducing microglia activation. Elevated IOP activates microglia, and following morphological and functional changes, these cells, as resident immune cells in the retina, show adaptive immune responses, including an enhanced release of pro-inflammatory factors (tumor neurosis factor-α, interleukins, etc.). These ATP and Toll-like receptor-mediated responses are further regulated by heat shock proteins, CD200R, chemokine receptors, and metabotropic purinergic receptors, may aggravate RGC loss. In the optic nerve head, astrogliosis is initiated and regulated by a complex reaction process, including purines, transmitters, chemokines, growth factors and cytokines, which contributes to RGC axon injury through releasing pro-inflammatory factors and changing extracellular matrix in glaucoma. The effects of activated glial cells on RGCs are further modified by the interplay among different types of glial cells. This review is concluded by presenting an in-depth discussion of possible research directions in this field in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guo-Li Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shuo Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xiong-Li Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Zhou ZX, Xu LJ, Wang HN, Cheng S, Li F, Miao Y, Lei B, Gao F, Wang Z. EphA4/ephrinA3 reverse signaling mediated downregulation of glutamate transporter GLAST in Müller cells in an experimental glaucoma model. Glia 2023; 71:720-741. [PMID: 36416239 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Deficiency of glutamate transporter GLAST in Müller cells may be culpable for excessive extracellular glutamate, which involves in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage in glaucoma. We elucidated how GLAST was regulated in rat chronic ocular hypertension (COH) model. Western blot and whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that GLAST proteins and GLAST-mediated current densities in Müller cells were downregulated at the early stages of COH. In normal rats, intravitreal injection of the ephrinA3 activator EphA4-Fc mimicked the changes of GLAST in COH retinas. In purified cultured Müller cells, EphA4-Fc treatment reduced GLAST expression at mRNA and protein levels, which was reversed by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP2 or transfection with ephrinA3-siRNA (Si-EFNA3), suggesting that EphA4/ephrinA3 reverse signaling mediated GLAST downregulation. EphA4/ephrinA3 reverse signaling-induced GLAST downregulation was mediated by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathways since EphA4-Fc treatment of cultured Müller cells reduced the levels of p-Akt/Akt and NF-κB p65, which were reversed by transfecting Si-EFNA3. In Müller cells with ephrinA3 knockdown, the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 still decreased the protein levels of NF-κB p65 in the presence of EphA4-Fc, and the mRNA levels of GLAST were reduced by LY294002 and the NF-κB inhibitor SN50, respectively. Pre-injection of the PI3K/Akt pathway activator 740 Y-P reversed the GLAST downregulation in COH retinas. Western blot and TUNEL staining showed that transfecting of Si-EFNA3 reduced Müller cell gliosis and RGC apoptosis in COH retinas. Our results suggest that activated EphA4/ephrinA3 reverse signaling induces GLAST downregulation in Müller cells via inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathways, thus contributing to RGC damage in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Xin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin-Jie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Lei
- Institutes of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Hu X, Zhao GL, Xu MX, Zhou H, Li F, Miao Y, Lei B, Yang XL, Wang Z. Interplay between Müller cells and microglia aggravates retinal inflammatory response in experimental glaucoma. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:303. [PMID: 34952606 PMCID: PMC8705189 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02366-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness, is a retinal neurodegenerative disease, which results from progressive apoptotic death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Although the mechanisms underlying RGC apoptosis in glaucoma are extremely complicated, an abnormal cross-talk between retinal glial cells and RGCs is generally thought to be involved. However, how interaction of Müller cells and microglia, two types of glial cells, contributes to RGC injury is largely unknown. Methods A mouse chronic ocular hypertension (COH) experimental glaucoma model was produced. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR), transwell co-culture of glial cells, flow cytometry assay, ELISA, Ca2+ image, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) techniques were employed to investigate the interaction of Müller cells and microglia, and its underlying mechanisms in COH retina. Results We first showed that Müller cell activation in mice with COH induced microglia activation through the ATP/P2X7 receptor pathway. The activation of microglia resulted in a significant increase in mRNA and protein levels of pro-inflammatory factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6. These inflammatory factors in turn caused the up-regulation of mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory factors in Müller cells through a positive feedback manner. Conclusions These findings provide robust evidence, for the first time, that retinal inflammatory response may be aggravated by an interplay between activated two types of glial cells. These results also suggest that to reduce the interplay between Müller cells and microglia could be a potential effective strategy for preventing the loss of RGCs in glaucoma. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-021-02366-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guo-Li Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Meng-Xi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Han Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Lei
- Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Xiong-Li Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Cheng S, Wang HN, Xu LJ, Li F, Miao Y, Lei B, Sun X, Wang Z. Soluble tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced hyperexcitability contributes to retinal ganglion cell apoptosis by enhancing Nav1.6 in experimental glaucoma. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:182. [PMID: 34419081 PMCID: PMC8380326 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a major pro-inflammatory cytokine released from activated retinal glial cells in glaucoma. Here, we investigated how TNF-α induces retinal ganglion cell (RGC) hyperexcitability and injury. METHODS Whole-cell patch-clamp techniques were performed to explore changes in spontaneous firing and evoked action potentials, and Na+ currents in RGCs. Both intravitreal injection of TNF-α and chronic ocular hypertension (COH) models were used. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) techniques were employed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of TNF-α effects on RGCs. RESULTS Intravitreal injection of soluble TNF-α significantly increased the spontaneous firing frequencies of RGCs in retinal slices. When the synaptic transmissions were blocked, more than 90% of RGCs still showed spontaneous firing; both the percentage of cells and firing frequency were higher than the controls. Furthermore, the frequency of evoked action potentials was also higher than the controls. Co-injection of the TNF-α receptor 1 (TNFR1) inhibitor R7050 eliminated the TNF-α-induced effects, suggesting that TNF-α may directly act on RGCs to induce cell hyperexcitability through activating TNFR1. In RGCs acutely isolated from TNF-α-injected retinas, Na+ current densities were upregulated. Perfusing TNF-α in RGCs of normal rats mimicked this effect, and the activation curve of Na+ currents shifted toward hyperpolarization direction, which was mediated through p38 MAPK and STAT3 signaling pathways. Further analysis revealed that TNF-α selectively upregulated Nav1.6 subtype of Na+ currents in RGCs. Similar to observations in retinas of rats with COH, intravitreal injection of TNF-α upregulated the expression of Nav1.6 proteins in both total cell and membrane components, which was reversed by the NF-κB inhibitor BAY 11-7082. Inhibition of TNFR1 blocked TNF-α-induced RGC apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS TNF-α/TNFR1 signaling induces RGC hyperexcitability by selectively upregulating Nav1.6 Na+ channels, thus contributing to RGC apoptosis in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Hong-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Lin-Jie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Fang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Bo Lei
- Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003 China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology at Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
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Zhang Y, Wu N, Li Q, Hu X, Wang L, Sun JG, Wang Z, Sun XH. Neuroprotective effect of the somatostatin receptor 5 agonist L-817,818 on retinal ganglion cells in experimental glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2021; 204:108449. [PMID: 33465395 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Somatostatin plays important roles in modulating neuronal functions by activating the five specific G-protein coupled receptors (sst1-sst5). Previous studies have demonstrated that sst5 were expressed in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and sst5 agonist attenuated the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid-induced retinal neurotoxicity. In this study, we investigated effects and underlying mechanisms of the sst5 agonist L-817,818 on RGC injury induced by elevated intraocular pressure (COH) in experimental glaucoma. Our results showed that intraperitoneal administration of L-817,818 significantly reduced RGC loss and decreased the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)-positive RGCs in COH retinas, suggesting that L-817,818 may attenuate RGC apoptosis. Consistently, in COH retinas with L-817,818 administration, both the down-regulated mRNA and protein levels of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and the up-regulated mRNA and protein levels of pro-apoptotic Bax were partially reversed. L-817,818 administration downregulated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins caspase-9 and caspase-3 in COH retinas. In addition, L-817,818 administration reduced the concentrations of reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species and malondialdehyde, and ameliorated the functions of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex (MRCC). Our results imply that administration of the sst5 agonist L-817,818 reduces RGC loss in COH rats through decreasing RGC apoptosis, which is mediated by regulating Bcl-2/Bax balance, reducing oxidative stress and rescuing activities of MRCC. Activation of sst5 may provide neuroprotective roles for RGCs in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Wu
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Li
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Wang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Guo Sun
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xing-Huai Sun
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Xu LJ, Gao F, Cheng S, Zhou ZX, Li F, Miao Y, Niu WR, Yuan F, Sun XH, Wang Z. Activated ephrinA3/EphA4 forward signaling induces retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in experimental glaucoma. Neuropharmacology 2020; 178:108228. [PMID: 32745487 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that EphA4 participates in neuronal injury, and there is a strong interaction between ephrinA3 and EphA4. In this study, we showed that in a rat chronic ocular hypertension (COH) experimental glaucoma model, expression of EphA4 and ephrinA3 proteins was increased in retinal cells, including retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and Müller cells, which may result in ephrinA3/EphA4 forward signaling activation on RGCs, as evidenced by increased p-EphA4/EphA4 ratio. Intravitreal injection of ephrinA3-Fc, an activator of EphA4, mimicked the effect of COH on p-EphA4/EphA4 and induced an increase in TUNEL-positive signals in normal retinas, which was accompanied by dendritic spine retraction and thinner dendrites in RGCs. Furthermore, Intravitreal injection of ephrinA3-Fc increased the levels of phosphorylated src and GluA2 (p-src and p-GluA2). Co-immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated interactions between EphA4, p-src and GluA2. Intravitreal injection of ephrinA3-Fc reduced the expression of GluA2 proteins on the surface of normal retinal cells, which was prevented by intravitreal injection of PP2, an inhibitor of src-family tyrosine kinases. Pre-injection of PP2 or the Ca2+-permeable GluA2-lacking AMPA receptor inhibitor Naspm significantly and partially reduced the number of TUNEL-positive RGCs in the ephrinA3-Fc-injected and COH retinas. Our results suggest that activated ephrinA3/EphA4 forward signaling promoted GluA2 endocytosis, then resulted in dendritic spine retraction of RGCs, thus contributing to RGC apoptosis in COH rats. Attenuation of the strength of ephrinA/EphA signaling in an appropriate manner may be an effective way for preventing the loss of RGCs in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Jie Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Shuo Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhi-Xin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanying Miao
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei-Ran Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xing-Huai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Zhang ML, Zhao GL, Hou Y, Zhong SM, Xu LJ, Li F, Niu WR, Yuan F, Yang XL, Wang Z, Miao Y. Rac1 conditional deletion attenuates retinal ganglion cell apoptosis by accelerating autophagic flux in a mouse model of chronic ocular hypertension. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:734. [PMID: 32913260 PMCID: PMC7484783 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02951-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy has a fundamental role in maintaining cell homeostasis. Although autophagy has been implicated in glaucomatous pathology, how it regulates retinal ganglion cell (RGC) injury is largely unknown. In the present work, we found that biphasic autophagy in RGCs occurred in a mouse model of chronic ocular hypertension (COH), accompanied by activation of Rac1, a member of the Rho family. Rac1 conditional knockout (Rac1 cKO) in RGCs attenuated RGC apoptosis, in addition to blocking the increase in the number of autophagosomes and the expression of autophagy-related proteins (Beclin1, LC3-II/I, and p62) in COH retinas. Electron micrograph and double immunostaining of LAMP1 and LC3B showed that Rac1 cKO accelerated autolysosome fusion in RGC axons of COH mice. Inhibiting the first autophagic peak with 3-methyladenine or Atg13 siRNA reduced RGC apoptosis, whereas inhibiting the second autophagic peak with 3-MA or blocking autophagic flux by chloroquine increased RGC apoptosis. Furthermore, Rac1 cKO reduced the number of autophagosomes and apoptotic RGCs induced by rapamycin injected intravitreally, which suggests that Rac1 negatively regulates mTOR activity. Moreover, Rac1 deletion decreased Bak expression and did not interfere with the interaction of Beclin1 and Bcl-2 or Bak in COH retinas. In conclusion, autophagy promotes RGC apoptosis in the early stages of glaucoma and results in autophagic cell death in later stages. Rac1 deletion alleviates RGC damage by regulating the cross talk between autophagy and apoptosis through mTOR/Beclin1-Bak. Interfering with the Rac1/mTOR signaling pathway may provide a new strategy for treating glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Lu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Li Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu-Min Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin-Jie Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Ran Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiong-Li Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yanying Miao
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Hu X, Xu MX, Zhou H, Cheng S, Li F, Miao Y, Wang Z. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha aggravates gliosis and inflammation of activated retinal Müller cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 531:383-389. [PMID: 32800547 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.07.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a major inflammatory factor released from activated retinal glial cells, is implicated in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. In this study, we investigated whether and how TNF-α may affect functional conditions of activated retinal Müller cells. Our results showed that in the group I metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR I) agonist DHPG-activated cultured Müller cells, TNF-α treatment aggravated cell gliosis, as evidenced by significantly increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). TNF-α treatment of the DHPG-activated Müller cells decreased cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis. In normal Müller cells, TNF-α treatment increased the mRNA levels of leukocyte inhibitory factor (LIF), intercellular cell adhesion molecule (ICAM), vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM), and chemokine C-C-motif ligand 2 (CCL2), which could be significantly attenuated when Müller cells were pre-activated. However, TNF-α-induced elevation in mRNA levels of inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), in normal Müller cells still kept higher levels when Müller cells were pre-activated. Furthermore, the TNF-α-induced changes of cytokines were partially mediated by NF-κB signaling pathway. Our results suggest that TNF-α may promote gliosis and inflammatory response of activated Müller cells, thus aggravating RGC injury in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Meng-Xi Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Han Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shuo Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanying Miao
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Li Q, Jin R, Zhang S, Sun X, Wu J. Group II metabotropic glutamate receptor agonist promotes retinal ganglion cell survival by reducing neuronal excitotoxicity in a rat chronic ocular hypertension model. Neuropharmacology 2020; 170:108016. [PMID: 32101763 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma, the second leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is characterized by the selective death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR II) activation has been linked to RGC survival, however, the mechanism by which it promotes neuronal survival remains poorly defined. In the present work, we show that extracellular application of LY341495, an mGluR II antagonist could increase the RGC firing frequency, suggesting that activation of mGluR II by endogenously released glutamate could modulate RGC excitability. LY354740, an mGluR II agonist, significantly decreased RGC excitability and the reduced presynaptic excitatory inputs and post-synaptic Ca2+-permeable currents mediated the LY354740-induced effects. By using a well-characterized in vivo male Sprague-Dawley rat glaucoma model, we further demonstrate that in the early stage of experimental glaucoma, the expression of mGluR II dimer-formed protein was significantly reduced, and pre-activation of mGluR II by intravitreal injection of LY354740 before establishment of the glaucoma model could effectively reduce excitatory inputs, thereby reversing hyperexcitability induced by elevated intraocular pressure. Furthermore, LY354740 could increase the expression level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the glaucomatous retinas, further protecting RGCs. Our study indicates that the abnormal expression of mGluR II may accelerate RGC apoptosis in glaucoma, and demonstrates that mGluR II agonist LY354740 can be used as a novel method to counter RGC apoptosis in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ruiri Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Songjiang Central Hospital, Shanghai, 201600, China
| | - Shenghai Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Jihong Wu
- Eye Institute, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, 200031, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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13
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Eph/ephrin Signaling and Biology of Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020310. [PMID: 31979096 PMCID: PMC7074403 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as important therapeutic agents, owing to their easy isolation and culture, and their remarkable immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. However, MSCs constitute a heterogeneous cell population which does not express specific cell markers and has important problems for in vivo homing, and factors regulating their survival, proliferation, and differentiation are largely unknown. Accordingly, in the present article, we review the current evidence on the relationships between Eph kinase receptors, their ephrin ligands, and MSCs. These molecules are involved in the adult homeostasis of numerous tissues, and we and other authors have demonstrated their expression in human and murine MSCs derived from both bone marrow and adipose tissue, as well as their involvement in the MSC biology. We extend these studies providing new results on the effects of Eph/ephrins in the differentiation and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs.
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Tsukahara C, Sase K, Fujita N, Takagi H, Kitaoka Y. Axonal Protection by Tacrolimus with Inhibition of NFATc1 in TNF-Induced Optic Nerve Degeneration. Neurochem Res 2019; 44:1726-1735. [PMID: 31087207 PMCID: PMC6555779 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-019-02804-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Tacrolimus, a calcineurin (CaN) inhibitor, has been used for treatment of refractory allergic ocular disease, although its role in optic nerve degeneration remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated whether tacrolimus modulates tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-mediated axonal degeneration and whether it alters nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFATc), a downstream effector of CaN signaling. Immunoblot analysis showed no significant difference in CaNAα protein levels in optic nerve on day 3, 7, or 14 after TNF injection compared with PBS injection. However, a significant increase in NFATc1 protein level was observed in optic nerve 7 days after TNF injection. This increase was negated by simultaneous administration of tacrolimus. Administration of tacrolimus alone did not change the NFATc1 protein level in comparison to that observed after PBS injection. A significant increase in TNF protein level was observed in optic nerve 14 days after TNF injection and this increase was prevented by tacrolimus. Immunohistochemical analysis showed the immunoreactivity of NFATc1 to be increased in optic nerve after TNF injection. This increased immunoreactivity was colocalized with glial fibrillary acidic protein and was suppressed by tacrolimus. Treatment of tacrolimus significantly ameliorated the TNF-mediated axonal loss. These results suggest that tacrolimus is neuroprotective against axon loss in TNF-induced optic neuropathy and that the effect arises from suppression of the CaN/NFATc1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Tsukahara
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan.
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan.
| | - Kana Sase
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Fujita
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Takagi
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kitaoka
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
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15
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Rac1 Modulates Excitatory Synaptic Transmission in Mouse Retinal Ganglion Cells. Neurosci Bull 2019; 35:673-687. [PMID: 30888607 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-019-00353-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1), a member of the Rho GTPase family which plays important roles in dendritic spine morphology and plasticity, is a key regulator of cytoskeletal reorganization in dendrites and spines. Here, we investigated whether and how Rac1 modulates synaptic transmission in mouse retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) using selective conditional knockout of Rac1 (Rac1-cKO). Rac1-cKO significantly reduced the frequency of AMPA receptor-mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, while glycine/GABAA receptor-mediated miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents were not affected. Although the total GluA1 protein level was increased in Rac1-cKO mice, its expression in the membrane component was unchanged. Rac1-cKO did not affect spine-like branch density in single dendrites, but significantly reduced the dendritic complexity, which resulted in a decrease in the total number of dendritic spine-like branches. These results suggest that Rac1 selectively affects excitatory synaptic transmission in RGCs by modulating dendritic complexity.
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Zhu YN, Zuo GJ, Wang Q, Chen XM, Cheng JK, Zhang S. The involvement of the mGluR5-mediated JNK signaling pathway in rats with diabetic retinopathy. Int Ophthalmol 2019; 39:2223-2235. [PMID: 30607864 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-018-01061-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the involvement of the mGluR5-mediated JNK signaling pathway in rats with diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS This study established rat models of diabetes mellitus (DM), which were divided into Normal, DM, DM + CHPG (mGluR5 agonist CHPG), and DM + MTEP (mGluR5 antagonist MTEP) groups. The blood glucose and weight of rats were recorded. EB staining was used for observation of blood-retinal barrier (BRB) damage. Neural retina function was measured by pattern electroretinogram (ERG). PAS and NG2 immunohistochemistry were conducted to evaluate the retinal vascular morphology. The TUNEL assay and active caspase-3 immunohistochemistry were performed to detect retinal cell apoptosis. Additionally, the expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) were measured. Moreover, expression levels of mGluR5 and JNK pathway-related proteins were detected by western blot. RESULTS When compared with control rats, rats in the DM group showed decreased amplitude and latency of the peak times in the ERG test; further, DM group rats presented increases in blood glucose, BRB permeability, a retinal capillary area density, retinal cell apoptosis with an increased number of active caspase-3-positive cells, MDA level, mGluR5 levels, and the ratio of p-JNK/JNK, and they showed reductions in body weight and SOD activity, as well as in the number of pericytes and in the pericyte coverage (all P < 0.05). However, rats in DM + CHPG group had stronger negative effects than those in DM group (all P < 0.05). Rats from DM + MTEP group showed an opposite trend compared with the DM rats (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The level of mGluR5 in DR rats was upregulated, whereas inhibition of mGluR5 alleviated retinal pathological damage and decreased cell apoptosis to improve DR via suppression of the JNK signaling pathway, which provided a scientific theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ni Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China.
| | - Guo-Jin Zuo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Jin-Kui Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First People's Hospital, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
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