1
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Zhou Y, Zhou W, Rao Y, He J, Huang Y, Zhao P, Li J. Dysregulated energy and protein homeostasis and the loss of GABAergic amacrine cells in aging retina. Exp Eye Res 2024; 245:109985. [PMID: 38945518 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109985] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for the development or the worsening of retinal degenerative conditions. The intricate network of the neural retina determined that the retinal aging is a complicated process. The aim of this study is to delineate the transcriptomic changes of major retinal neurons during aging in C57BL/6 mice at single-cell level. We analyzed the transcriptional profiles of the photoreceptor, bipolar, amacrine, and Müller glial cells of 1.5-2 and 24-30 months old mice using single-cell RNA sequencing technique. We selectively confirmed the differences in gene expression using immunofluorescence staining and RNA in situ hybridization analysis. We found that each retinal cell type had unique changes upon aging. However, they all showed signs of dysregulated glucose and energy metabolism, and perturbed proteostasis. In particular, old Müller glia exhibited the most profound changes, including the upregulation of cell metabolism, stress-responses, antigen-presentation and immune responses and metal ion homeostasis. The dysregulated gliogenesis and differentiation was confirmed by the presence of Müller glia expressing rod-specific genes in the inner nuclear layer and the outer plexiform layer of the old retina. We further pinpointed the specific loss of GABAergic amacrine cells in old retina. Our study emphasized changes of amacrine and Müller glia during retinal aging, provided resources for further research on the molecular and cellular regulatory mechanisms underlying aging-associated retinal deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Wenchuan Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yuqing Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jincan He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chongming Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 202150, China
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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2
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Ong J, Zarnegar A, Selvam A, Driban M, Chhablani J. The Complement System as a Therapeutic Target in Retinal Disease. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:945. [PMID: 38929562 PMCID: PMC11205777 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The complement cascade is a vital system in the human body's defense against pathogens. During the natural aging process, it has been observed that this system is imperative for ensuring the integrity and homeostasis of the retina. While this system is critical for proper host defense and retinal integrity, it has also been found that dysregulation of this system may lead to certain retinal pathologies, including geographic atrophy and diabetic retinopathy. Targeting components of the complement system for retinal diseases has been an area of interest, and in vivo, ex vivo, and clinical trials have been conducted in this area. Following clinical trials, medications targeting the complement system for retinal disease have also become available. In this manuscript, we discuss the pathophysiology of complement dysfunction in the retina and specific pathologies. We then describe the results of cellular, animal, and clinical studies targeting the complement system for retinal diseases. We then provide an overview of complement inhibitors that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for geographic atrophy. The complement system in retinal diseases continues to serve as an emerging therapeutic target, and further research in this field will provide additional insights into the mechanisms and considerations for treatment of retinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Ong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Arman Zarnegar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Amrish Selvam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Matthew Driban
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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3
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Tan LX, Oertel FC, Cheng A, Cobigo Y, Keihani A, Bennett DJ, Abdelhak A, Montes SC, Chapman M, Chen RY, Cordano C, Ward ME, Casaletto K, Kramer JH, Rosen HJ, Boxer A, Miller BL, Green AJ, Elahi FM, Lakkaraju A. Targeting complement C3a receptor resolves mitochondrial hyperfusion and subretinal microglial activation in progranulin-deficient frontotemporal dementia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.595206. [PMID: 38854134 PMCID: PMC11160746 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.595206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in progranulin ( GRN ) cause frontotemporal dementia ( GRN -FTD) due to deficiency of the pleiotropic protein progranulin. GRN -FTD exhibits diverse pathologies including lysosome dysfunction, lipofuscinosis, microgliosis, and neuroinflammation. Yet, how progranulin loss causes disease remains unresolved. Here, we report that non-invasive retinal imaging of GRN -FTD patients revealed deficits in photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) that correlate with cognitive decline. Likewise, Grn -/- mice exhibit early RPE dysfunction, microglial activation, and subsequent photoreceptor loss. Super-resolution live imaging and transcriptomic analyses identified RPE mitochondria as an early driver of retinal dysfunction. Loss of mitochondrial fission protein 1 (MTFP1) in Grn -/- RPE causes mitochondrial hyperfusion and bioenergetic defects, leading to NF-kB-mediated activation of complement C3a-C3a receptor signaling, which drives further mitochondrial hyperfusion and retinal inflammation. C3aR antagonism restores RPE mitochondrial integrity and limits subretinal microglial activation. Our study identifies a previously unrecognized mechanism by which progranulin modulates mitochondrial integrity and complement-mediated neuroinflammation.
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Yang Q, Liu L, He F, Zhao W, Chen Z, Wu X, Rao B, Lin X, Mao F, Qu J, Zhang J. Retinal ganglion cell type-specific expression of synuclein family members revealed by scRNA-sequencing. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1472-1490. [PMID: 38903914 PMCID: PMC11186421 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.95598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Synuclein family members (Snca, Sncb, and Scng) are expressed in the retina, but their precise locations and roles are poorly understood. We performed an extensive analysis of the single-cell transcriptome in healthy and injured retinas to investigate their expression patterns and roles. We observed the expression of all synuclein family members in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which remained consistent across species (human, mouse, and chicken). We unveiled differential expression of Snca across distinct clusters (highly expressed in most), while Sncb and Sncg displayed uniform expression across all clusters. Further, we observed a decreased expression in RGCs following traumatic axonal injury. However, the proportion of α-Syn-positive RGCs in all RGCs and α-Syn-positive intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in all ipRGCs remained unaltered. Lastly, we identified changes in communication patterns preceding cell death, with particular significance in the pleiotrophin-nucleolin (Ptn-Ncl) and neural cell adhesion molecule signaling pathways, where communication differences were pronounced between cells with varying expression levels of Snca. Our study employs an innovative approach using scRNA-seq to characterize synuclein expression in health retinal cells, specifically focusing on RGC subtypes, advances our knowledge of retinal physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingwen Yang
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Fang He
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wenna Zhao
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Zhongqun Chen
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Xiaotian Wu
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Bilin Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Xin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Fangyuan Mao
- Alberta Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Jia Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
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Lim RR, Shirali S, Rowlan J, Engel AL, Nazario, M, Gonzalez K, Tong A, Neitz J, Neitz M, Chao JR. CFH Haploinsufficiency and Complement Alterations in Early-Onset Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:43. [PMID: 38683564 PMCID: PMC11059804 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.4.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Complement dysregulation is a key component in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and related diseases such as early-onset macular drusen (EOMD). Although genetic variants of complement factor H (CFH) are associated with AMD risk, the impact of CFH and factor H-like protein 1 (FHL-1) expression on local complement activity in human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) remains unclear. Methods We identified a novel CFH variant in a family with EOMD and generated patient induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived RPE cells. We assessed CFH and FHL-1 co-factor activity through C3b breakdown assays and measured complement activation by immunostaining for membrane attack complex (MAC) formation. Expression of CFH, FHL-1, local alternative pathway (AP) components, and regulators of complement activation (RCA) in EOMD RPE cells was determined by quantitative PCR, western blot, and immunostaining. Isogenic EOMD (cEOMD) RPE was generated using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. Results The CFH variant (c.351-2A>G) resulted in loss of CFH and FHL-1 expression and significantly reduced CFH and FHL-1 protein expression (∼50%) in EOMD iPSC RPE cells. These cells exhibited increased MAC deposition upon exposure to normal human serum. Under inflammatory or oxidative stress conditions, CFH and FHL-1 expression in EOMD RPE cells paralleled that of controls, whereas RCA expression, including MAC formation inhibitors, was elevated. CRISPR/Cas9 correction restored CFH/FHL-1 expression and mitigated alternative pathway complement activity in cEOMD RPE cells. Conclusions Identification of a novel CFH variant in patients with EOMD resulting in reduced CFH and FHL-1 and increased local complement activity in EOMD iPSC RPE supports the involvement of CFH haploinsufficiency in EOMD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayne R. Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Sharlene Shirali
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jessica Rowlan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Abbi L. Engel
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Marcos Nazario,
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Kelie Gonzalez
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Aspen Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jay Neitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Maureen Neitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jennifer R. Chao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Roger and Angie Karalis Johnson Retina Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States
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6
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Biber J, Jabri Y, Glänzer S, Dort A, Hoffelner P, Schmidt CQ, Bludau O, Pauly D, Grosche A. Gliosis-dependent expression of complement factor H truncated variants attenuates retinal neurodegeneration following ischemic injury. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:56. [PMID: 38388518 PMCID: PMC10885619 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03045-3] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Inherited, age-related, and acute retinal diseases are often exacerbated by an aberrant or excessive activity of the complement system. Consequently, cells not directly affected by an acute event or genetic variants may degenerate, resulting in enhanced visual impairment. The therapeutic potential of supplementation of complement factor H (FH), a key regulator of the complement cascade, is therefore particularly promising in the context of retinal diseases caused by complement activation. In this study, we engineered adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) containing sequences of two truncated human FH variants. The expression of these variants was regulated by the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter, which is selectively active in gliotic Müller cells. Both FH variants consisted of FH domains 19-20, which were connected to domains 1-4 and 1-7, respectively, by a polyglycine linker. These AAVs were intravitreally injected following ischemic injury of C57BL/6J mouse retinas. We observed transgene expression in gliotic Müller cells and to some extent in astrocytes. The expression correlated directly with damage severity. Interventions resulted in decreased complement activation, accelerated normalization of microglia activity and morphological improvements. Reduced levels of C3 transcripts and C3d protein in conjunction with higher transcript levels of inhibitory regulators like Cfi and Cfh, hinted at attenuated complement activity. This study demonstrates the great potential of complement regulatory gene addition therapy. With further in vivo testing it could be applied to treat a wide range of retinal diseases where no causative therapies are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Biber
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Yassin Jabri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Glänzer
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Aaron Dort
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Hoffelner
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Christoph Q Schmidt
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacology of Natural Products, University of Ulm Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacy, Biochemical Pharmacy Group, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Oliver Bludau
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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7
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Hoppe C, Gregory-Ksander M. The Role of Complement Dysregulation in Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2307. [PMID: 38396986 PMCID: PMC10888626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by damage to the optic nerve that results in irreversible vision loss. While the exact pathology of glaucoma is not well understood, emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation of the complement system, a key component of innate immunity, plays a crucial role. In glaucoma, dysregulation of the complement cascade and impaired regulation of complement factors contribute to chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration. Complement components such as C1Q, C3, and the membrane attack complex have been implicated in glaucomatous neuroinflammation and retinal ganglion cell death. This review will provide a summary of human and experimental studies that document the dysregulation of the complement system observed in glaucoma patients and animal models of glaucoma driving chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration. Understanding how complement-mediated damage contributes to glaucoma will provide opportunities for new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Hoppe
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Animal Physiology/Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Meredith Gregory-Ksander
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
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8
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Pfaller AM, Kaplan L, Carido M, Grassmann F, Díaz-Lezama N, Ghaseminejad F, Wunderlich KA, Glänzer S, Bludau O, Pannicke T, Weber BHF, Koch SF, Bonev B, Hauck SM, Grosche A. The glucocorticoid receptor as a master regulator of the Müller cell response to diabetic conditions in mice. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:33. [PMID: 38273366 PMCID: PMC10809506 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03021-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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is considered a primarily microvascular complication of diabetes. Müller glia cells are at the centre of the retinal neurovascular unit and play a critical role in DR. We therefore investigated Müller cell-specific signalling pathways that are altered in DR to identify novel targets for gene therapy. Using a multi-omics approach on purified Müller cells from diabetic db/db mice, we found the mRNA and protein expression of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) to be significantly decreased, while its target gene cluster was down-regulated. Further, oPOSSUM TF analysis and ATAC- sequencing identified the GR as a master regulator of Müller cell response to diabetic conditions. Cortisol not only increased GR phosphorylation. It also induced changes in the expression of known GR target genes in retinal explants. Finally, retinal functionality was improved by AAV-mediated overexpression of GR in Müller cells. Our study demonstrates an important role of the glial GR in DR and implies that therapeutic approaches targeting this signalling pathway should be aimed at increasing GR expression rather than the addition of more ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Pfaller
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Lew Kaplan
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Madalena Carido
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Felix Grassmann
- Institute of Clinical Human Genetics, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute for Clinical Research and Systems Medicine, Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Nundehui Díaz-Lezama
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Farhad Ghaseminejad
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Kirsten A Wunderlich
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Sarah Glänzer
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Oliver Bludau
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Thomas Pannicke
- Paul Flechsig Institute for Brain Research, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bernhard H F Weber
- Institute of Clinical Human Genetics, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Susanne F Koch
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Boyan Bonev
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center-BMC, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.
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Shigesada N, Shikada N, Shirai M, Toriyama M, Higashijima F, Kimura K, Kondo T, Bessho Y, Shinozuka T, Sasai N. Combination of blockade of endothelin signalling and compensation of IGF1 expression protects the retina from degeneration. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:51. [PMID: 38252153 PMCID: PMC10803390 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05087-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: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and macular dystrophy (MD) cause severe retinal dysfunction, affecting 1 in 4000 people worldwide. This disease is currently assumed to be intractable, because effective therapeutic methods have not been established, regardless of genetic or sporadic traits. Here, we examined a RP mouse model in which the Prominin-1 (Prom1) gene was deficient and investigated the molecular events occurring at the outset of retinal dysfunction. We extracted the Prom1-deficient retina subjected to light exposure for a short time, conducted single-cell expression profiling, and compared the gene expression with and without stimuli. We identified the cells and genes whose expression levels change directly in response to light stimuli. Among the genes altered by light stimulation, Igf1 was decreased in rod photoreceptor cells and astrocytes under the light-stimulated condition. Consistently, the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signal was weakened in light-stimulated photoreceptor cells. The recovery of Igf1 expression with the adeno-associated virus (AAV) prevented photoreceptor cell death, and its treatment in combination with the endothelin receptor antagonist led to the blockade of abnormal glial activation and the promotion of glycolysis, thereby resulting in the improvement of retinal functions, as assayed by electroretinography. We additionally demonstrated that the attenuation of mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), which mediates IGF signalling, leads to complications in maintaining retinal homeostasis. Together, we propose that combinatorial manipulation of distinct mechanisms is useful for the maintenance of the retinal condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoya Shigesada
- Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Naoya Shikada
- Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Manabu Shirai
- Omics Research Center (ORC), National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan
| | - Michinori Toriyama
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, 669-1337, Japan
| | - Fumiaki Higashijima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube, 755-0046, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kimura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube, 755-0046, Japan
| | - Toru Kondo
- Division of Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0815, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Bessho
- Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Takuma Shinozuka
- Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Noriaki Sasai
- Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, 630-0192, Japan.
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10
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Vashishtha A, Maina SW, Altman J, Jones G, Lee TJ, Bollinger KE, Ulrich L, Töteberg-Harms M, Estes AJ, Zhi W, Sharma S, Sharma A. Complement System Proteins in the Human Aqueous Humor and Their Association with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1400. [PMID: 37763167 PMCID: PMC10532607 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13091400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study discovers the complement protein profile in the aqueous humor (AH) of human subjects and investigates its association with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) pathogenesis. Among the 32 complement proteins identified, 22 were highly abundant and detected in more than 50% of AH samples. The most predominant active complement proteins in the AH are C3, C4B, C4A, CFB, CFD, and C9. Additionally, the most prevalent complement regulators and receptors include CLU, SERPING1, F2, CFH, CFI, and VTN. Significant alterations in complement proteins were observed in individuals with POAG compared to those with cataracts. Specifically, complement protein F2 was upregulated, while C8G, C6, and CFH were downregulated in POAG samples. Stratification of the samples by race and sex revealed distinct alterations of complement proteins in patients with POAG. In the African American cohort, five complement proteins (C4A, C4B, F2, C7, and C3) were upregulated in POAG compared to cataract patients. In the Caucasian cohort, eight complement proteins (C3, SERPING1, CFI, CLU, CFHR1, C8G, C6, and CFH) were downregulated in the POAG samples compared to the cataract samples. Within the male cohort, three complement proteins (CLU, C6, and CFH) were downregulated in POAG patients compared to those with cataracts. Whereas, within the female cohort, two complement proteins (C4B and F2) were upregulated and one (C8G) downregulated in the POAG samples when compared to cataracts. Discerning these changes in the AH complement protein profile will assist in the development of tailored therapies to modulate the complement system for managing ocular disorders. These insights may also lead to novel biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Vashishtha
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Sharon W. Maina
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Jeremy Altman
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Garrett Jones
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Tae Jin Lee
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Kathryn E. Bollinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
| | - Lane Ulrich
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
| | - Marc Töteberg-Harms
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
| | - Amy J. Estes
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
| | - Wenbo Zhi
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Shruti Sharma
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (S.W.M.); (J.A.); (G.J.); (T.J.L.); (W.Z.); (S.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; (K.E.B.); (L.U.); (M.T.-H.); (A.J.E.)
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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11
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Wolf HN, Ehinger V, Guempelein L, Banerjee P, Kuempfel T, Havla J, Pauly D. NMOSD IgG Impact Retinal Cells in Murine Retinal Explants. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7319-7335. [PMID: 37754247 PMCID: PMC10529972 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, characterized by autoantibodies against aquaporin-4. The symptoms primarily involve severe optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Although the disease progression is typically relapse-dependent, recent studies revealed retinal neuroaxonal degeneration unrelated to relapse activity, potentially due to anti-aquaporin-4-positive antibodies interacting with retinal glial cells such as Müller cells. In this exploratory study, we analysed the response of mouse retinal explants to NMOSD immunoglobulins (IgG). Mouse retinal explants were treated with purified IgG from patient or control sera for one and three days. We characterized tissue response patterns through morphological changes, chemokine secretion, and complement expression. Mouse retinal explants exhibited a basic proinflammatory response ex vivo, modified by IgG addition. NMOSD IgG, unlike control IgG, increased gliosis and decreased chemokine release (CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CXCL-10). Complement component expression by retinal cells remained unaltered by either IgG fraction. We conclude that human NMOSD IgG can possibly bind in the mouse retina, altering the local cellular environment. This intraretinal stress may contribute to retinal degeneration independent of relapse activity in NMOSD, suggesting a primary retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Nora Wolf
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Ehinger
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Guempelein
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Pratiti Banerjee
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Tania Kuempfel
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, Biomedical Center and University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Havla
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, Biomedical Center and University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
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12
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Tan Y, Huang J, Li D, Zou C, Liu D, Qin B. Single-cell RNA sequencing in dissecting microenvironment of age-related macular degeneration: Challenges and perspectives. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102030. [PMID: 37549871 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in individuals over the age of 50 years, yet its etiology and pathogenesis largely remain uncovered. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies are recently developed and have a number of advantages over conventional bulk RNA sequencing techniques in uncovering the heterogeneity of complex microenvironments containing numerous cell types and cell communications during various biological processes. In this review, we summarize the latest discovered cellular components and regulatory mechanisms during AMD development revealed by scRNA-seq. In addition, we discuss the main challenges and future directions in exploring the pathophysiology of AMD equipped with single-cell technologies. Our review underscores the importance of multimodal single-cell platforms (such as single-cell spatiotemporal multi-omics and single-cell exosome omics) as new approaches for basic and clinical AMD research in identifying biomarker, characterizing cellular responses to drug treatment and environmental stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Tan
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianguo Huang
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Deshuang Li
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chang Zou
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China; School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Kong Hong, Shenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China.
| | - Dongcheng Liu
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Bo Qin
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China; Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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13
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Wang X, Wang T, Lam E, Alvarez D, Sun Y. Ocular Vascular Diseases: From Retinal Immune Privilege to Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12090. [PMID: 37569464 PMCID: PMC10418793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The eye is an immune privileged tissue that insulates the visual system from local and systemic immune provocation to preserve homeostatic functions of highly specialized retinal neural cells. If immune privilege is breached, immune stimuli will invade the eye and subsequently trigger acute inflammatory responses. Local resident microglia become active and release numerous immunological factors to protect the integrity of retinal neural cells. Although acute inflammatory responses are necessary to control and eradicate insults to the eye, chronic inflammation can cause retinal tissue damage and cell dysfunction, leading to ocular disease and vision loss. In this review, we summarized features of immune privilege in the retina and the key inflammatory responses, factors, and intracellular pathways activated when retinal immune privilege fails, as well as a highlight of the recent clinical and research advances in ocular immunity and ocular vascular diseases including retinopathy of prematurity, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.W.)
| | - Tianxi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.W.)
| | - Enton Lam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.W.)
| | - David Alvarez
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ye Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.W.)
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14
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Fanelli G, Romano M, Lombardi G, Sacks SH. Soluble Collectin 11 (CL-11) Acts as an Immunosuppressive Molecule Potentially Used by Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Epithelial Cells to Modulate T Cell Response. Cells 2023; 12:1805. [PMID: 37443840 PMCID: PMC10341155 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131805] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell allotransplantation is seen as a possible solution to retinal diseases. However, the RPE-complement system triggered by the binding of collectin-11 (CL-11) is a potential barrier for RPE transplantation as the complement-mediated inflammatory response may promote T cell recognition. To address this, we investigated the role of CL-11 on T cell immuno-response. We confirmed that RPE cells up-regulated MHC class I and expressed MHC class II molecules in an inflammatory setting. Co-cultures of RPE cells with T cells led to the inhibition of T cell proliferation. We found that CL-11 was partially responsible for this effect as T cell binding of CL-11 inhibited T cell proliferation in association with the downregulation of CD28. We also found that the suppressive action of CL-11 was abrogated in the presence of the RGD peptide given to block the T cell binding of CL-11 by its collagen-like domain. Because RPE cells can bind and secrete CL-11 under stress conditions, we postulate that soluble CL-11 contributes to the immunosuppressive properties of RPE cells. The investigation of this dual biological activity of CL-11, namely as a trigger of the complement cascade and a modulator of T cell responses, may provide additional clues about the mechanisms that orchestrate the immunogenic properties of RPE cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Fanelli
- Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College, London SE1 9RT, UK; (M.R.); (G.L.); (S.H.S.)
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15
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Hammadi S, Tzoumas N, Ferrara M, Meschede IP, Lo K, Harris C, Lako M, Steel DH. Bruch's Membrane: A Key Consideration with Complement-Based Therapies for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. J Clin Med 2023; 12:2870. [PMID: 37109207 PMCID: PMC10145879 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The complement system is crucial for immune surveillance, providing the body's first line of defence against pathogens. However, an imbalance in its regulators can lead to inappropriate overactivation, resulting in diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally affecting around 200 million people. Complement activation in AMD is believed to begin in the choriocapillaris, but it also plays a critical role in the subretinal and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) spaces. Bruch's membrane (BrM) acts as a barrier between the retina/RPE and choroid, hindering complement protein diffusion. This impediment increases with age and AMD, leading to compartmentalisation of complement activation. In this review, we comprehensively examine the structure and function of BrM, including its age-related changes visible through in vivo imaging, and the consequences of complement dysfunction on AMD pathogenesis. We also explore the potential and limitations of various delivery routes (systemic, intravitreal, subretinal, and suprachoroidal) for safe and effective delivery of conventional and gene therapy-based complement inhibitors to treat AMD. Further research is needed to understand the diffusion of complement proteins across BrM and optimise therapeutic delivery to the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hammadi
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Nikolaos Tzoumas
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Queen Alexandra Rd., Sunderland SR2 9H, UK
| | | | - Ingrid Porpino Meschede
- Gyroscope Therapeutics Limited, a Novartis Company, Rolling Stock Yard, 6th Floor, 188 York Way, London N7 9AS, UK
| | - Katharina Lo
- Gyroscope Therapeutics Limited, a Novartis Company, Rolling Stock Yard, 6th Floor, 188 York Way, London N7 9AS, UK
| | - Claire Harris
- Gyroscope Therapeutics Limited, a Novartis Company, Rolling Stock Yard, 6th Floor, 188 York Way, London N7 9AS, UK
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - David H. Steel
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Queen Alexandra Rd., Sunderland SR2 9H, UK
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16
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Grover A, Sankaranarayanan S, Mathur V, Suri P, Qiu H, Andrews-Zwilling Y, Mease K, Taylor LK, Cahir-McFarland E, Keswani S, Yednock T. Pharmacokinetic and Target Engagement Measures of ANX007, an Anti-C1q Antibody Fragment, Following Intravitreal Administration in Nonhuman Primates. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:3. [PMID: 36729444 PMCID: PMC9907371 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.2.3] [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] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose C1q and the classical complement cascade are key regulators of synaptic pruning, and their aberrant activation has been implicated in neurodegenerative ophthalmic diseases including geographic atrophy and glaucoma. The antigen-binding fragment antibody ANX007 specifically recognizes globular head groups of C1q to block substrate binding and functionally inhibit classical complement cascade activation. ANX007 was assessed in nonclinical studies of biodistribution and C1q target engagement in the eye following intravitreal (IVT) administration in cynomolgus monkeys. Methods Female juvenile cynomolgus monkeys (n = 12) received a single bilateral dose of 1 or 5 mg ANX007/eye, with vitreous and non-perfused tissue samples collected approximately 4 weeks later. In a separate study, male (n = 6/5) and female (n = 6/5) animals received repeat bilateral dosing of 1, 2.5, or 5 mg ANX007/eye on days 1 and 29, with aqueous and vitreous collections on day 44 or day 59. Tissues from the 5 mg/eye repeat-dose group were perfused, and retina, choroid, and optic nerve samples were collected approximately 2 and 4 weeks post-last dose. Results Following a single dose of ANX007, vitreous levels of free drug were measurable through 4 weeks at both the 1 and 5 mg dose levels, with approximately 3-day half-life. With repeat dose of 5 mg/eye, free-ANX007 was measurable 4 weeks post-last dose in perfused retina and choroid and up to approximately 2 weeks post-last dose in optic nerve. There was a strong correlation between C1q target engagement and free drug levels in aqueous and vitreous humors and retinal tissue. Conclusions Following IVT administration, ANX007 distributes to sites within the retina that are relevant to neurodegenerative ophthalmic disease with clear evidence of C1q target engagement. Based on its mechanism of action inhibiting C1q and its downstream activity, ANX007 is predicted to mitigate tissue damage driven by classical complement activation in the retina. These data support further clinical evaluation of ANX007.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Grover
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States,ACELYRIN, Inc., Agoura Hills, California, United States
| | - Sethu Sankaranarayanan
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States,Escape Bio, South San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Vidhu Mathur
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States,Acelot Inc., Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Poojan Suri
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States
| | - Haiyan Qiu
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States
| | | | - Kirsten Mease
- ToxStrategies Inc., Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Lori K. Taylor
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States
| | | | - Sanjay Keswani
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States,Phoenix R&D Solutions Ltd, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ted Yednock
- Annexon Biosciences Inc., Brisbane, California, United States
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17
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Astrocyte Immune Functions and Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032747. [PMID: 36769067 PMCID: PMC9916878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, a non-neuronal glial cell type in the nervous system, are essential for regulating physiological functions of the central nervous system. In various injuries and diseases of the central nervous system, astrocytes often change their phenotypes into neurotoxic ones that participate in pro-inflammatory responses (hereafter referred to as "immune functions"). Such astrocytic immune functions are not only limited to brain diseases but are also found in ocular neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma, a retinal neurodegenerative disease that is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The eye has two astrocyte-lineage cells: astrocytes and Müller cells. They maintain the physiological environment of the retina and optic nerve, thereby controlling visual function. Dysfunction of astrocyte-lineage cells may be involved in the onset and progression of glaucoma. These cells become reactive in glaucoma patients, and animal studies have suggested that their immune responses may be linked to glaucoma-related events: tissue remodeling, neuronal death, and infiltration of peripheral immune cells. In this review, we discuss the role of the immune functions of astrocyte-lineage cells in the pathogenesis of glaucoma.
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18
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Kaplan L, Drexler C, Pfaller AM, Brenna S, Wunderlich KA, Dimitracopoulos A, Merl-Pham J, Perez MT, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Enzmann V, Samardzija M, Puig B, Fuchs P, Franze K, Hauck SM, Grosche A. Retinal regions shape human and murine Müller cell proteome profile and functionality. Glia 2023; 71:391-414. [PMID: 36334068 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24283] [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: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The human macula is a highly specialized retinal region with pit-like morphology and rich in cones. How Müller cells, the principal glial cell type in the retina, are adapted to this environment is still poorly understood. We compared proteomic data from cone- and rod-rich retinae from human and mice and identified different expression profiles of cone- and rod-associated Müller cells that converged on pathways representing extracellular matrix and cell adhesion. In particular, epiplakin (EPPK1), which is thought to play a role in intermediate filament organization, was highly expressed in macular Müller cells. Furthermore, EPPK1 knockout in a human Müller cell-derived cell line led to a decrease in traction forces as well as to changes in cell size, shape, and filopodia characteristics. We here identified EPPK1 as a central molecular player in the region-specific architecture of the human retina, which likely enables specific functions under the immense mechanical loads in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lew Kaplan
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Corinne Drexler
- Max Perutz Labs, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna M Pfaller
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Santra Brenna
- Neurology Department, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten A Wunderlich
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Dimitracopoulos
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Juliane Merl-Pham
- Research Unit Protein Science and Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Maria-Theresa Perez
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Ophthalmology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,NanoLund, Nanometer Structure Consortium, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Volker Enzmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marijana Samardzija
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Berta Puig
- Neurology Department, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Fuchs
- Max Perutz Labs, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Kristian Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Institute of Medical Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Research Unit Protein Science and Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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19
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King BC, Blom AM. Intracellular complement: Evidence, definitions, controversies, and solutions. Immunol Rev 2023; 313:104-119. [PMID: 36100972 PMCID: PMC10086947 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The term "intracellular complement" has been introduced recently as an umbrella term to distinguish functions of complement proteins that take place intracellularly, rather than in the extracellular environment. However, this rather undefined term leaves some confusion as to the classification of what intracellular complement really is, and as to which intracellular compartment(s) it should refer to. In this review, we will describe the evidence for both canonical and non-canonical functions of intracellular complement proteins, as well as the current controversies and unanswered questions as to the nature of the intracellular complement. We also suggest new terms to facilitate the accurate description and discussion of specific forms of intracellular complement and call for future experiments that will be required to provide more definitive evidence and a better understanding of the mechanisms of intracellular complement activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben C King
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anna M Blom
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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20
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Chucair-Elliott AJ, Ocañas SR, Pham K, Van Der Veldt M, Cheyney A, Stanford D, Gurley J, Elliott MH, Freeman WM. Translatomic response of retinal Müller glia to acute and chronic stress. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 175:105931. [PMID: 36423879 PMCID: PMC9875566 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of retina cell type-specific epigenetic and transcriptomic signatures is crucial to understanding the pathophysiology of retinal degenerations such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and delineating cell autonomous and cell-non-autonomous mechanisms. We have discovered that Aldh1l1 is specifically expressed in the major macroglia of the retina, Müller glia, and, unlike the brain, is not expressed in retinal astrocytes. This allows use of Aldh1l1 cre drivers and Nuclear Tagging and Translating Ribosome Affinity Purification (NuTRAP) constructs for temporally controlled labeling and paired analysis of Müller glia epigenomes and translatomes. As validated through a variety of approaches, the Aldh1l1cre/ERT2-NuTRAP model provides Müller glia specific translatomic and epigenomic profiles without the need to isolate whole cells. Application of this approach to models of acute injury (optic nerve crush) and chronic stress (aging) uncovered few common Müller glia-specific transcriptome changes in inflammatory pathways, and mostly differential signatures for each stimulus. The expression of members of the IL-6 and integrin-linked kinase signaling pathways was enhanced in Müller glia in response to optic nerve crush but not aging. Unique changes in neuroinflammation and fibrosis signaling pathways were observed in response to aging but not with optic nerve crush. The Aldh1l1cre/ERT2-NuTRAP model allows focused molecular analyses of a single, minority cell type within the retina, providing more substantial effect sizes than whole tissue analyses. The NuTRAP model, nucleic acid isolation, and validation approaches presented here can be applied to any retina cell type for which a cell type-specific cre is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana J. Chucair-Elliott
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Corresponding authors at: Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA. (A.J. Chucair-Elliott), (W.M. Freeman)
| | - Sarah R. Ocañas
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kevin Pham
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Michael Van Der Veldt
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ashley Cheyney
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - David Stanford
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jami Gurley
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Michael H. Elliott
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Willard M. Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Corresponding authors at: Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA. (A.J. Chucair-Elliott), (W.M. Freeman)
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21
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Ng ESY, Kady N, Hu J, Dave A, Jiang Z, Pei J, Gorin MB, Matynia A, Radu RA. Membrane Attack Complex Mediates Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cell Death in Stargardt Macular Degeneration. Cells 2022; 11:3462. [PMID: 36359858 PMCID: PMC9655712 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recessive Stargardt disease (STGD1) is an inherited retinopathy caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene. The ABCA4 protein is a phospholipid-retinoid flippase in the outer segments of photoreceptors and the internal membranes of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Here, we show that RPE cells derived via induced pluripotent stem-cell from a molecularly and clinically diagnosed STGD1 patient exhibited reduced ABCA4 protein and diminished activity compared to a normal subject. Consequently, STGD1 RPE cells accumulated intracellular autofluorescence-lipofuscin and displayed increased complement C3 activity. The level of C3 inversely correlated with the level of CD46, an early negative regulator of the complement cascade. Persistent complement dysregulation led to deposition of the membrane attack complex on the surface of RPE cells, decrease in transepithelial resistance, and subsequent cell death. These findings are strong evidence of complement-mediated RPE cell damage in STGD1, in the absence of photoreceptors, caused by reduced CD46 regulatory protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Sze Yin Ng
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Cellular and Integrative Physiology Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Nermin Kady
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Jane Hu
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Arpita Dave
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Zhichun Jiang
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jacqueline Pei
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Michael B. Gorin
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Anna Matynia
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Roxana A. Radu
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California at Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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22
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Alfaar AS, Stürzbecher L, Diedrichs-Möhring M, Lam M, Roubeix C, Ritter J, Schumann K, Annamalai B, Pompös IM, Rohrer B, Sennlaub F, Reichhart N, Wildner G, Strauß O. FoxP3 expression by retinal pigment epithelial cells: transcription factor with potential relevance for the pathology of age-related macular degeneration. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:260. [PMID: 36273134 PMCID: PMC9588251 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02620-w] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Forkhead-Box-Protein P3 (FoxP3) is a transcription factor and marker of regulatory T cells, converting naive T cells into Tregs that can downregulate the effector function of other T cells. We previously detected the expression of FoxP3 in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, forming the outer blood–retina barrier of the immune privileged eye. Methods We investigated the expression, subcellular localization, and phosphorylation of FoxP3 in RPE cells in vivo and in vitro after treatment with various stressors including age, retinal laser burn, autoimmune inflammation, exposure to cigarette smoke, in addition of IL-1β and mechanical cell monolayer destruction. Eye tissue from humans, mouse models of retinal degeneration and rats, and ARPE-19, a human RPE cell line for in vitro experiments, underwent immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence staining, and PCR or immunoblot analysis to determine the intracellular localization and phosphorylation of FoxP3. Cytokine expression of stressed cultured RPE cells was investigated by multiplex bead analysis. Depletion of the FoxP3 gene was performed with CRISPR/Cas9 editing. Results RPE in vivo displayed increased nuclear FoxP3-expression with increases in age and inflammation, long-term exposure of mice to cigarette smoke, or after laser burn injury. The human RPE cell line ARPE-19 constitutively expressed nuclear FoxP3 under non-confluent culture conditions, representing a regulatory phenotype under chronic stress. Confluently grown cells expressed cytosolic FoxP3 that was translocated to the nucleus after treatment with IL-1β to imitate activated macrophages or after mechanical destruction of the monolayer. Moreover, with depletion of FoxP3, but not of a control gene, by CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing decreased stress resistance of RPE cells. Conclusion Our data suggest that FoxP3 is upregulated by age and under cellular stress and might be important for RPE function. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-022-02620-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Samir Alfaar
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-University, 10117, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Ulm, 89075, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lucas Stürzbecher
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-University, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Diedrichs-Möhring
- Section of Immunobiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Lam
- Institut de La Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Roubeix
- Institut de La Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Julia Ritter
- Institut Für Med. Mikrobiologie, Immunologie Und Hygiene, TU München, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Kathrin Schumann
- Institut Für Med. Mikrobiologie, Immunologie Und Hygiene, TU München, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Balasubramaniam Annamalai
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Medical University South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Inga-Marie Pompös
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-University, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bärbel Rohrer
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Medical University South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Florian Sennlaub
- Institut de La Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Nadine Reichhart
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-University, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerhild Wildner
- Section of Immunobiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Olaf Strauß
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-University, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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23
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Martínez-Gil N, Maneu V, Kutsyr O, Fernández-Sánchez L, Sánchez-Sáez X, Sánchez-Castillo C, Campello L, Lax P, Pinilla I, Cuenca N. Cellular and molecular alterations in neurons and glial cells in inherited retinal degeneration. Front Neuroanat 2022; 16:984052. [PMID: 36225228 PMCID: PMC9548552 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.984052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple gene mutations have been associated with inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs). Despite the spectrum of phenotypes caused by the distinct mutations, IRDs display common physiopathology features. Cell death is accompanied by inflammation and oxidative stress. The vertebrate retina has several attributes that make this tissue vulnerable to oxidative and nitrosative imbalance. The high energy demands and active metabolism in retinal cells, as well as their continuous exposure to high oxygen levels and light-induced stress, reveal the importance of tightly regulated homeostatic processes to maintain retinal function, which are compromised in pathological conditions. In addition, the subsequent microglial activation and gliosis, which triggers the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, trophic factors, and other molecules, further worsen the degenerative process. As the disease evolves, retinal cells change their morphology and function. In disease stages where photoreceptors are lost, the remaining neurons of the retina to preserve their function seek out for new synaptic partners, which leads to a cascade of morphological alterations in retinal cells that results in a complete remodeling of the tissue. In this review, we describe important molecular and morphological changes in retinal cells that occur in response to oxidative stress and the inflammatory processes underlying IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Martínez-Gil
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Victoria Maneu
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Oksana Kutsyr
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Xavier Sánchez-Sáez
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Carla Sánchez-Castillo
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Laura Campello
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Pedro Lax
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Isabel Pinilla
- Aragón Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lozano Blesa University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Surgery, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Isabel Pinilla,
| | - Nicolás Cuenca
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
- Institute Ramón Margalef, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- *Correspondence: Nicolás Cuenca,
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24
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Demais V, Pohl A, Wunderlich KA, Pfaller AM, Kaplan L, Barthélémy A, Dittrich R, Puig B, Giebel B, Hauck SM, Pfrieger FW, Grosche A. Release of VAMP5-positive extracellular vesicles by retinal Müller glia in vivo. J Extracell Vesicles 2022; 11:e12254. [PMID: 36043482 PMCID: PMC9428896 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell interactions in the central nervous system are based on the release of molecules mediating signal exchange and providing structural and trophic support through vesicular exocytosis and the formation of extracellular vesicles. The specific mechanisms employed by each cell type in the brain are incompletely understood. Here, we explored the means of communication used by Müller cells, a type of radial glial cells in the retina, which forms part of the central nervous system. Using immunohistochemical, electron microscopic, and molecular analyses, we provide evidence for the release of distinct extracellular vesicles from endfeet and microvilli of retinal Müller cells in adult mice in vivo. We identify VAMP5 as a Müller cell-specific SNARE component that is part of extracellular vesicles and responsive to ischemia, and we reveal differences between the secretomes of immunoaffinity-purified Müller cells and neurons in vitro. Our findings suggest extracellular vesicle-based communication as an important mediator of cellular interactions in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Demais
- Plateforme Imagerie In Vitro, CNRS UAR 3156, Neuropôle, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Anne Pohl
- Department of Physiological Genomics, BioMedical Center BMC, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten A Wunderlich
- Department of Physiological Genomics, BioMedical Center BMC, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Anna M Pfaller
- Department of Physiological Genomics, BioMedical Center BMC, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Lew Kaplan
- Department of Physiological Genomics, BioMedical Center BMC, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Amelie Barthélémy
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Robin Dittrich
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Berta Puig
- Neurology Department, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Giebel
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core and Research Unit Protein Science, Helmholtz-Zentrum München, München, Germany
| | - Frank W Pfrieger
- Plateforme Imagerie In Vitro, CNRS UAR 3156, Neuropôle, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, BioMedical Center BMC, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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25
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Wang S, Du L, Yuan S, Peng GH. Complement C3a receptor inactivation attenuates retinal degeneration induced by oxidative damage. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:951491. [PMID: 36110094 PMCID: PMC9469738 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.951491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration causes vision loss and threatens the health of elderly individuals worldwide. Evidence indicates that the activation of the complement system is associated with retinal degeneration. However, the mechanism of complement signaling in retinal degeneration needs to be further studied. In this study, we show that the expression of C3 and C3a receptor (C3ar1) is positively associated with the inflammatory response and retinal degeneration. Genetic deletion of C3 and pharmacological inhibition of C3ar1 resulted in the alleviation of neuroinflammation, prevention of photoreceptor cell apoptosis and restoration of visual function. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) identified a C3ar1-dependent network shown to regulate microglial activation and astrocyte gliosis formation. Mechanistically, we found that STAT3 functioned downstream of the C3-C3ar1 pathway and that the C3ar1-STAT3 pathway functionally mediated the immune response and photoreceptor cell degeneration in response to oxidative stress. These findings reveal an important role of C3ar1 in oxidative-induced retinal degeneration and suggest that intervention of the C3ar1 pathway may alleviate retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojun Wang
- Senior Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Du
- Senior Department of Ophthalmology, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shunzong Yuan
- Department of Lymphoma, Head and Neck Cancer, The Fifth Medical Center, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital (Former 307th Hospital of the PLA), Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Shunzong Yuan,
| | - Guang-Hua Peng
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Guang-Hua Peng,
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26
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Rajala A, Rajala R, Teel K, Rajala RVS. Ribosomal targeting strategy and nuclear labeling to analyze photoreceptor phosphoinositide signatures. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2022; 1867:159161. [PMID: 35427794 PMCID: PMC10812878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2022.159161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Reversible phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol by phosphoinositide (PI) kinases and phosphatases generates seven distinct phosphoinositide phosphates, called phosphoinositides or PIPs. All seven PIPs are formed in the retina and photoreceptor cells. Around 50 genes in the mammalian genome encode PI kinases and PI phosphatases. There are no studies available on the distribution of these enzymes in the retina and photoreceptors. AIM To employ Ribosomal Targeting Strategy and Nuclear Labeling to Analyze Phosphoinositide Signatures in rod-photoreceptor cells. METHODS HA-tagging of ribosomal protein Rpl22 was induced with Cre-recombinase under the control of the rhodopsin promoter. Actively translating mRNAs associated with polyribosomes were isolated by immunoprecipitation with HA antibody, followed by RNA isolation and gene identification. We also isolated biotinylated-rod nuclei from NuTRAP mice under the control of the rhodopsin-Cre promoter and analyzed nuclear phosphoinositides. RESULTS Our results indicate that the expression of class I and class III PI 3-kinase, PI4K IIIβ, PI 5-kinase, PIKfyve, PI3-phosphatases, MTMR2, 4, 6, 7, 14, PI4-phosphatase, TMEM55A, PI 5-phosphatases, SYNJI, INPP5B, INPP5E, INPP5F, SKIP and other phosphatases with dual substrate specificity, PTPMT1, SCAM1, and FIG4 are highly enriched in rod photoreceptor cells compared with the retina and cone-like retina. Our analysis identified the presence of PI(4)P, PI(3,4)P2, PI(3,5)P2, and PI(4,5)P2 in the rod nuclei. CONCLUSIONS Our studies for the first time demonstrate the expression of PI kinases, PI phosphatases, and nuclear PIPs in rod photoreceptor cells. The NuTRAP mice may be useful not only for epigenetic and transcriptomic studies but also for in vivo cell-specific lipidomics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammaji Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA
| | - Rahul Rajala
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Cardiovascular Biology Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA
| | - Kenneth Teel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA
| | - Raju V S Rajala
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA.
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27
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Zauhar R, Biber J, Jabri Y, Kim M, Hu J, Kaplan L, Pfaller AM, Schäfer N, Enzmann V, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Straub T, Hauck SM, Gamlin PD, McFerrin MB, Messinger J, Strang CE, Curcio CA, Dana N, Pauly D, Grosche A, Li M, Stambolian D. As in Real Estate, Location Matters: Cellular Expression of Complement Varies Between Macular and Peripheral Regions of the Retina and Supporting Tissues. Front Immunol 2022; 13:895519. [PMID: 35784369 PMCID: PMC9240314 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.895519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The cellular events that dictate the initiation of the complement pathway in ocular degeneration, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is poorly understood. Using gene expression analysis (single cell and bulk), mass spectrometry, and immunohistochemistry, we dissected the role of multiple retinal and choroidal cell types in determining the complement homeostasis. Our scRNA-seq data show that the cellular response to early AMD is more robust in the choroid, particularly in fibroblasts, pericytes and endothelial cells. In late AMD, complement changes were more prominent in the retina especially with the expression of the classical pathway initiators. Notably, we found a spatial preference for these differences. Overall, this study provides insights into the heterogeneity of cellular responses for complement expression and the cooperation of neighboring cells to complete the pathway in healthy and AMD eyes. Further, our findings provide new cellular targets for therapies directed at complement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy Zauhar
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Josef Biber
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Yassin Jabri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Mijin Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jian Hu
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lew Kaplan
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Anna M. Pfaller
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Nicole Schäfer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Experimental Orthopaedics, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Volker Enzmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Tobias Straub
- Bioinformatics Unit, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Hauck
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core and Research Unit Protein Science, Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Paul D. Gamlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Michael B. McFerrin
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Jeffrey Messinger
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Christianne E. Strang
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Christine A. Curcio
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Nicholas Dana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Diana Pauly
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Mingyao Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Dwight Stambolian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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28
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Chen Y, Xia Q, Zeng Y, Zhang Y, Zhang M. Regulations of Retinal Inflammation: Focusing on Müller Glia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:898652. [PMID: 35573676 PMCID: PMC9091449 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.898652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal inflammation underlies multiple prevalent retinal diseases. While microglia are one of the most studied cell types regarding retinal inflammation, growing evidence shows that Müller glia play critical roles in the regulation of retinal inflammation. Müller glia express various receptors for cytokines and release cytokines to regulate inflammation. Müller glia are part of the blood-retinal barrier and interact with microglia in the inflammatory responses. The unique metabolic features of Müller glia in the retina makes them vital for retinal homeostasis maintenance, regulating retinal inflammation by lipid metabolism, purine metabolism, iron metabolism, trophic factors, and antioxidants. miRNAs in Müller glia regulate inflammatory responses via different mechanisms and potentially regulate retinal regeneration. Novel therapies are explored targeting Müller glia for inflammatory retinal diseases treatment. Here we review new findings regarding the roles of Müller glia in retinal inflammation and discuss the related novel therapies for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinghong Xia
- Operating Room of Anesthesia Surgery Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Meixia Zhang,
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29
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Zhong H, Sun X. Contribution of Interleukin-17A to Retinal Degenerative Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:847937. [PMID: 35392087 PMCID: PMC8980477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.847937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of vision loss and blindness throughout the world, characterized by chronic and progressive loss of neurons and/or myelin. One of the common features of retinal degenerative diseases and central neurodegenerative diseases is chronic neuroinflammation. Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) is the cytokine most closely related to disease in its family. Accumulating evidence suggests that IL-17A plays a key role in human retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. This review aims to provide an overview of the role of IL-17A participating in the pathogenesis of retinal degenerative diseases, which may open new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Zhong
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
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Tzoumas N, Kavanagh D, Cordell HJ, Lotery AJ, Patel PJ, Steel DH. Rare complement factor I variants associated with reduced macular thickness and age-related macular degeneration in the UK biobank. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:2678-2692. [PMID: 35285476 PMCID: PMC9402241 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), we identified 8433 UK Biobank participants with rare complement Factor I gene (CFI) variants, 579 with optical coherence tomography-derived macular thickness data. We stratified these variants by predicted gene expression and measured their association with retinal pigment epithelium-Bruch’s membrane (RPE-BM) complex and retinal thicknesses at nine macular subfields, as well as AMD risk, using multivariable regression models adjusted for the common complement Factor H gene (CFH) p.Y402H and age-related maculopathy susceptibility protein 2 gene (ARMS2) p.A69S risk genotypes. CFI variants associated with low Factor I levels predicted a thinner mean RPE-BM (95% confidence interval [CI] −1.66 to −0.37 μm, P = 0.002) and retina (95% CI −5.88 to −0.13 μm, P = 0.04) and a higher AMD risk (odds ratio [OR] = 2.26, 95% CI 1.56 to 3.27, P < 0.001). CFI variants associated with normal Factor I levels did not impact mean RPE-BM/retinal thickness (P = 0.28; P = 0.99) or AMD risk (P = 0.97). CFH p.Y402H was associated with a thinner RPE-BM (95% CI −0.31 to −0.18 μm, P < 0.001 heterozygous; 95% CI −0.62 to −0.42 μm, P < 0.001 homozygous) and retina (95% CI −0.73 to −0.12 μm, P = 0.007 heterozygous; 95% CI −1.08 to −0.21 μm, P = 0.004 homozygous). ARMS2 p.A69S did not influence RPE-BM (P = 0.80 heterozygous; P = 0.12 homozygous) or retinal thickness (P = 0.75 heterozygous; P = 0.07 homozygous). p.Y402H and p.A69S exhibited a significant allele–dose response with AMD risk. Thus, CFI rare variants associated with low Factor I levels are robust predictors of reduced macular thickness and AMD. The observed association between macular thickness and CFH p.Y402H, but not ARMS2 p.A69S, highlights the importance of complement dysregulation in early pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Tzoumas
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David Kavanagh
- Complement Therapeutics Research Group, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- National Renal Complement Therapeutics Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Heather J Cordell
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Lotery
- Clinical & Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Praveen J Patel
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - David H Steel
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom
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31
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Abstract
The eye presents a unique opportunity for complement component 3 (C3) therapeutics. Drugs can be delivered directly to specific parts of the eye, and growing evidence has established a pivotal role for C3 in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Emerging data show that C3 may be important to the pathophysiology of other eye diseases as well. This article will discuss the location of C3 expression in the eye as well as the preclinical and clinical data regarding C3's functions in AMD. We will provide a comprehensive review of developing C3 inhibitors for the eye, including the Phase 2 and 3 data for the C3 inhibitor pegcetacoplan as a treatment for the geographic atrophy of AMD. Developing evidence also points toward C3 as a therapeutic target for stages of AMD preceding geographic atrophy. We will also discuss data illuminating C3's relationship to other eye diseases, such as Stargardt disease, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. In addition to being a converging point and centerpiece of the complement cascade, C3 has broad effects as a multifaceted controller of opsonophagocytosis, microglia/macrophage recruitment, and downstream terminal pathway activity. C3 is a crucial player in the pathophysiology of AMD but also seems to have importance in other diseases that are major causes of blindness. Directions for further investigation will be highlighted, as culminating evidence suggests that we may be approaching an era of C3 therapeutics for the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Kim
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Tianyu Liu
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - John D Lambris
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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32
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Epithelial phenotype restoring drugs suppress macular degeneration phenotypes in an iPSC model. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7293. [PMID: 34911940 PMCID: PMC8674335 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27488-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a blinding eye disease, is characterized by pathological protein- and lipid-rich drusen deposits underneath the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and atrophy of the RPE monolayer in advanced disease stages - leading to photoreceptor cell death and vision loss. Currently, there are no drugs that stop drusen formation or RPE atrophy in AMD. Here we provide an iPSC-RPE AMD model that recapitulates drusen and RPE atrophy. Drusen deposition is dependent on AMD-risk-allele CFH(H/H) and anaphylatoxin triggered alternate complement signaling via the activation of NF-κB and downregulation of autophagy pathways. Through high-throughput screening we identify two drugs, L-745,870, a dopamine receptor antagonist, and aminocaproic acid, a protease inhibitor that reduce drusen deposits and restore RPE epithelial phenotype in anaphylatoxin challenged iPSC-RPE with or without the CFH(H/H) genotype. This comprehensive iPSC-RPE model replicates key AMD phenotypes, provides molecular insight into the role of CFH(H/H) risk-allele in AMD, and discovers two candidate drugs to treat AMD.
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33
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Complement as a powerful "influencer" in the brain during development, adulthood and neurological disorders. Adv Immunol 2021; 152:157-222. [PMID: 34844709 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The complement system was long considered as only a powerful effector arm of the immune system that, while critically protective, could lead to inflammation and cell death if overactivated, even in the central nervous system (CNS). However, in the past decade it has been recognized as playing critical roles in key physiological processes in the CNS, including neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling in the developing and adult brain. Inherent in these processes are the interactions with cells in the brain, and the cascade of interactions and functional consequences that ensue. As a result, investigations of therapeutic approaches for both suppressing excessive complement driven neurotoxicity and aberrant sculpting of neuronal circuits, require broad (and deep) knowledge of the functional activities of multiple components of this highly evolved and regulated system to avoid unintended negative consequences in the clinic. Advances in basic science are beginning to provide a roadmap for translation to therapeutics, with both small molecule and biologics. Here, we present examples of the critical roles of proper complement function in the development and sculpting of the nervous system, and in enabling rapid protection from infection and clearance of dying cells. Microglia are highlighted as important command centers that integrate signals from the complement system and other innate sensors that are programed to provide support and protection, but that direct detrimental responses to aberrant activation and/or regulation of the system. Finally, we present promising research areas that may lead to effective and precision strategies for complement targeted interventions to promote neurological health.
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Schäfer N, Rasras A, Ormenisan DM, Amslinger S, Enzmann V, Jägle H, Pauly D. Complement Factor H-Related 3 Enhanced Inflammation and Complement Activation in Human RPE Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:769242. [PMID: 34819935 PMCID: PMC8606654 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.769242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Complement Factor H-Related 3 (FHR-3) is a major regulator of the complement system, which is associated with different diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the non-canonical local, cellular functions of FHR-3 remained poorly understood. Here, we report that FHR-3 bound to oxidative stress epitopes and competed with FH for interaction. Furthermore, FHR-3 was internalized by viable RPE cells and modulated time-dependently complement component (C3, FB) and receptor (C3aR, CR3) expression of human RPE cells. Independently of any external blood-derived proteins, complement activation products were detected. Anaphylatoxin C3a was visualized in treated cells and showed a translocation from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane after FHR-3 exposure. Subsequently, FHR-3 induced a RPE cell dependent pro-inflammatory microenvironment. Inflammasome NLRP3 activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion of IL-1ß, IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α were induced after FHR-3-RPE interaction. Our previously published monoclonal anti-FHR-3 antibody, which was chimerized to reduce immunogenicity, RETC-2-ximab, ameliorated the effect of FHR-3 on ARPE-19 cells. Our studies suggest FHR-3 as an exogenous trigger molecule for the RPE cell “complosome” and as a putative target for a therapeutic approach for associated degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schäfer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Experimental Orthopaedics, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anas Rasras
- Chemistry Department, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan.,Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Delia M Ormenisan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Amslinger
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Volker Enzmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Bern and Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Herbert Jägle
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.,Experimental Ophthalmology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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35
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Reinehr S, Doerner JD, Mueller-Buehl AM, Koch D, Fuchshofer R, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Cytokine and Complement Response in the Glaucomatous βB1-CTGF Mouse Model. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:718087. [PMID: 34867198 PMCID: PMC8637215 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.718087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex neurodegenerative disease leading to a loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve axons. An activation of the complement system seems to contribute to cell loss in this disease. Hence, we investigated a possible initiation of the complement system and the cytokine response in the βB1-CTGF glaucoma model. In these mice, intraocular pressure is elevated, which is the main glaucoma risk factor in patients, and RGC loss occurs at 15 weeks of age. Therefore, quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistological experiments were performed in 5-, 10-, and 15-week-old βB1-CTGF animals and their corresponding wildtypes (WT) to analyze the expression of several complement system factors. We could show that mRNA levels of the terminal complement pathway components C3 and C5 (Hc) were upregulated at 10 weeks. In accordance, more C3+ and membrane attack complex+ cells were observed in transgenic retinae. Further, the C5a receptor anaphylatoxin receptor (C5ar) and the complement component C5a receptor 1 (C5ar1; CD88) mRNA levels were upregulated in 10- and 15-week-old βB1-CTGF mice. Interestingly, all three activation routes of the complement system were elevated in βB1-CTGF mice at some age. Especially C1q, as a marker of the classical pathway, was significantly increased at all investigated ages. Furthermore, mRNA expression levels of interferon-γ (Infg) were upregulated at 5 weeks, while Cxcl1 and Cxcl2 mRNA levels were upregulated at 10 and 15 weeks. The mRNA levels of the chemokines Cxcl10 were increased at all ages in βB1-CTGF mice. These results lead to the assumption that in these transgenic mice, a complement activation mainly through the classical pathway as well as a cytokine response plays a major role in cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johanna D. Doerner
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ana M. Mueller-Buehl
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dennis Koch
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - H. Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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36
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Schmalen A, Lorenz L, Grosche A, Pauly D, Deeg CA, Hauck SM. Proteomic Phenotyping of Stimulated Müller Cells Uncovers Profound Pro-Inflammatory Signaling and Antigen-Presenting Capacity. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:771571. [PMID: 34776983 PMCID: PMC8585775 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.771571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Müller cells are the main macroglial cells of the retina exerting a wealth of functions to maintain retinal homoeostasis. Upon pathological changes in the retina, they become gliotic with both protective and detrimental consequences. Accumulating data also provide evidence for a pivotal role of Müller cells in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). While microglial cells, the resident immune cells of the retina are considered as main players in inflammatory processes associated with DR, the implication of activated Müller cells in chronic retinal inflammation remains to be elucidated. In order to assess the signaling capacity of Müller cells and their role in retinal inflammation, we performed in-depth proteomic analysis of Müller cell proteomes and secretomes after stimulation with INFγ, TNFα, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, VEGF, TGFβ1, TGFβ2 and TGFβ3. We used both, primary porcine Müller cells and the human Müller cell line MIO-M1 for our hypothesis generating approach. Our results point towards an intense signaling capacity of Müller cells, which reacted in a highly discriminating manner upon treatment with different cytokines. Stimulation of Müller cells resulted in a primarily pro-inflammatory phenotype with secretion of cytokines and components of the complement system. Furthermore, we observed evidence for mitochondrial dysfunction, implying oxidative stress after treatment with the various cytokines. Finally, both MIO-M1 cells and primary porcine Müller cells showed several characteristics of atypical antigen-presenting cells, as they are capable of inducing MHC class I and MHC class II with co-stimulatory molecules. In line with this, they express proteins associated with formation and maturation of phagosomes. Thus, our findings underline the importance of Müller cell signaling in the inflamed retina, indicating an active role in chronic retinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Schmalen
- Research Unit Protein Science and Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany.,Chair of Physiology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Lea Lorenz
- Chair of Physiology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Antje Grosche
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, LMU Munich, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Cornelia A Deeg
- Chair of Physiology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Research Unit Protein Science and Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany
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Feng L, Nie K, Huang Q, Fan W. Complement factor H deficiency combined with smoking promotes retinal degeneration in a novel mouse model. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 247:77-86. [PMID: 34775843 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211052245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. The Y402H polymorphism in complement factor H promotes disease-like pathogenesis, and a Cfh+/- murine model can replicate this phenotype, but only after two years. We reasoned that by combining CFH deficiency with cigarette smoke exposure, we might be able to accelerate disease progression to facilitate preclinical research in this disease. Wild-type and Cfh+/- mice were exposed to nose-only cigarette smoke for three months. Retinal tissue morphology and visual function were evaluated by optical coherence tomography, fundus photography and autofluorescence, and electroretinogram. Retinal pigment epithelial cell phenotype and ultrastructure were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and transmission electron microscopy. Cfh+/- smoking mice showed a dome-like protruding lesion at the ellipsoid zone (drusen-like deposition), many retinal hyper-autofluorescence spots, and a marked decrease in A- and B-wave amplitudes. Compared with non-smoking mice, wild-type and Cfh+/- smoking mice showed sub-retinal pigment epithelium complement protein 3 deposition, activation of microglia, metabolic waste accumulation, and impairment of tight junctions. Microglia cells migrated into the photoreceptor outer segment layer in Cfh+/- smoking mice showed increased activation. Our results suggest that exposing Cfh+/- mice to smoking leads to earlier onset of age-related macular degeneration than in other animal models, which may facilitate preclinical research into the pathophysiology and treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Kailai Nie
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qing Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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38
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Complement component 3 from astrocytes mediates retinal ganglion cell loss during neuroinflammation. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 142:899-915. [PMID: 34487221 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-021-02366-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by varying degrees of secondary neurodegeneration. Retinal ganglion cells (RGC) are lost in MS in association with optic neuritis but the mechanisms of neuronal injury remain unclear. Complement component C3 has been implicated in retinal and cerebral synaptic pathology that may precede neurodegeneration. Herein, we examined post-mortem MS retinas, and then used a mouse model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), to examine the role of C3 in the pathogenesis of RGC loss associated with optic neuritis. First, we show extensive C3 expression in astrocytes (C3+/GFAP+ cells) and significant RGC loss (RBPMS+ cells) in post-mortem retinas from people with MS compared to retinas from non-MS individuals. A patient with progressive MS with a remote history of optic neuritis showed marked reactive astrogliosis with C3 expression in the inner retina extending into deeper layers in the affected eye more than the unaffected eye. To study whether C3 mediates retinal degeneration, we utilized global C3-/- EAE mice and found that they had less RGC loss and partially preserved neurites in the retina compared with C3+/+ EAE mice. C3-/- EAE mice had fewer axonal swellings in the optic nerve, reflecting reduced axonal injury, but had no changes in demyelination or T cell infiltration into the CNS. Using a C3-tdTomato reporter mouse line, we show definitive evidence of C3 expression in astrocytes in the retina and optic nerves of EAE mice. Conditional deletion of C3 in astrocytes showed RGC protection replicating the effects seen in the global knockouts. These data implicate astrocyte C3 expression as a critical mediator of retinal neuronal pathology in EAE and MS, and are consistent with recent studies showing C3 gene variants are associated with faster rates of retinal neurodegeneration in human disease.
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Sun L, Wang R, Hu G, Liu H, Lv K, Duan Y, Shen N, Wu J, Hu J, Liu Y, Jin Q, Zhang F, Xu X. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) deciphering pathological alterations in streptozotocin-induced diabetic retinas. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108718. [PMID: 34364890 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an irreversible and progressive diabetic complication leading to visual impairment, even blindness. Due to the delicate and complicated structure of the retina, the pathology of DR has not been completely elucidated yet. We constructed a transcriptome atlas of >14,000 single cells from healthy and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic murine retinas to decipher pathological alterations of DR. We found four stress-inducible genes Cirbp, Rmb3, Mt1 and Mt2 commonly induced in most types of retinal cells. Bipolar cells were little affected on both number and gene expression. Diabetes increased expression of inflammatory factor genes in retinal microglia, and stimulated expression of immediate early genes (IEGs) in retinal astrocytes. A large number of genes were deregulated in diabetic vascular endothelial cells (ECs), and the differentially expressed genes were paired to the pathways functioning in metabolism, shear stress and vascular permeability. These pathways were mapped by more deregulated genes in a subpopulation of ECs specifically presented in diabetic retinas (diabetic retinal ECs, DRECs). Moreover, several inflammation pathways were activated in DRECs, and the most significant one is the IL-17 signaling pathway. According to the EC markers, DRECs were mainly capillary ECs, confirmed by immunofluorescent staining of S100a9, a target gene of the IL-17 signaling pathway. This study deciphered pathological alterations of DR, and provided clues for potential targets for DR therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licheng Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruonan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangyi Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Huazhen Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Kangjia Lv
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiali Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujuan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China
| | - Qihuang Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xun Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200080, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, 200080, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, 200080, Shanghai, China.
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Sodium Iodate-Induced Degeneration Results in Local Complement Changes and Inflammatory Processes in Murine Retina. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179218. [PMID: 34502128 PMCID: PMC8431125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, causes personal suffering and high socioeconomic costs. While there has been progress in the treatments for the neovascular form of AMD, no therapy is yet available for the more common dry form, also known as geographic atrophy. We analysed the retinal tissue in a mouse model of retinal degeneration caused by sodium iodate (NaIO3)-induced retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy to understand the underlying pathology. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry of the retinas and multiplex ELISA of the mouse serum were applied to find the pathways involved in the degeneration. NaIO3 caused patchy RPE loss and thinning of the photoreceptor layer. This was accompanied by the increased retinal expression of complement components c1s, c3, c4, cfb and cfh. C1s, C3, CFH and CFB were complement proteins, with enhanced deposition at day 3. C4 was upregulated in retinal degeneration at day 10. Consistently, the transcript levels of proinflammatory ccl-2, -3, -5, il-1β, il-33 and tgf-β were increased in the retinas of NaIO3 mice, but vegf-a mRNA was reduced. Macrophages, microglia and gliotic Müller cells could be a cellular source for local retinal inflammatory changes in the NaIO3 retina. Systemic complement and cytokines/chemokines remained unaltered in this model of NaIO3-dependent retinal degeneration. In conclusion, systemically administered NaIO3 promotes degenerative and inflammatory processes in the retina, which can mimic the hallmarks of geographic atrophy.
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Ying P, Huang C, Wang Y, Guo X, Cao Y, Zhang Y, Fu S, Chen L, Yi G, Fu M. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing of Retina:New Looks for Gene Marker and Old Diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:699906. [PMID: 34395530 PMCID: PMC8362665 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.699906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The retina is composed of 11 types of cells, including neurons, glial cells and vascular bed cells. It contains five types of neurons, each with specific physiological, morphological, and molecular definitions. Currently, single-cell RNA sequencing (sRNA-seq) is emerging as one of the most powerful tools to reveal the complexity of the retina. The continuous discovery of retina-related gene targets plays an important role in helping us understand the nature of diseases. The revelation of new cell subpopulations can focus the occurrence and development of diseases on specific biological activities of specific cells. In addition, sRNA-seq performs high-throughput sequencing analysis of epigenetics, transcriptome and genome at the single-cell level, with the advantages of high-throughput and high-resolution. In this paper, we systematically review the development history of sRNA-seq technology, and summarize the new subtypes of retinal cells and some specific gene markers discovered by this technology. The progress in the diagnosis of retinal related diseases is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peixi Ying
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Huang
- Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xi Guo
- Medical College of Rehabiliation, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchen Cao
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxi Zhang
- The Second Clinical School, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sheng Fu
- The University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guoguo Yi
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Abstract
It has been known for over a century that the basic organization of the retina is conserved across vertebrates. It has been equally clear that retinal cells can be classified into numerous types, but only recently have methods been devised to explore this diversity in unbiased, scalable, and comprehensive ways. Advances in high-throughput single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) have played a pivotal role in this effort. In this article, we outline the experimental and computational components of scRNA-seq and review studies that have used them to generate retinal atlases of cell types in several vertebrate species. These atlases have enabled studies of retinal development, responses of retinal cells to injury, expression patterns of genes implicated in retinal disease, and the evolution of cell types. Recently, the inquiry has expanded to include the entire eye and visual centers in the brain. These studies have enhanced our understanding of retinal function and dysfunction and provided tools and insights for exploring neural diversity throughout the brain. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Vision Science, Volume 7 is September 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Shekhar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute; and California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, QB3, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA;
| | - Joshua R Sanes
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA;
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Kim BJ, Mastellos DC, Li Y, Dunaief JL, Lambris JD. Targeting complement components C3 and C5 for the retina: Key concepts and lingering questions. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100936. [PMID: 33321207 PMCID: PMC8197769 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a major cause of legal blindness, and treatment for the geographic atrophy form of AMD is a significant unmet need. Dysregulation of the complement cascade is thought to be instrumental for AMD pathophysiology. In particular, C3 and C5 are pivotal components of the complement cascade and have become leading therapeutic targets for AMD. In this article, we discuss C3 and C5 in detail, including their roles in AMD, biochemical and structural aspects, locations of expression, and the functions of C3 and C5 fragments. Further, the article critically reviews developing therapeutics aimed at C3 and C5, underscoring the potential effects of broad inhibition of complement at the level of C3 versus more specific inhibition at C5. The relationships of complement biology to the inflammasome and microglia/macrophage activity are highlighted. Concepts of C3 and C5 biology will be emphasized, while we point out questions that need to be settled and directions for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Kim
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | | | - Yafeng Li
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joshua L Dunaief
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John D Lambris
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Chen MM, Hu ZL, Ding JH, Du RH, Hu G. Astrocytic Kir6.1 deletion aggravates neurodegeneration in the lipopolysaccharide-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease via astrocyte-neuron cross talk through complement C3-C3R signaling. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 95:310-320. [PMID: 33838249 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Complement pathway over-activation has been implicated in a variety of neurological diseases. However, the signaling pathways governing astrocytic complement activation in Parkinson's disease (PD) are poorly understood. Kir6.1, a pore-forming subunit of ATP-sensitive potassium (K-ATP) channel, is prominently expressed in astrocytes and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, we hypothesize that Kir6.1/K-ATP channel may regulate astrocytic complement activation in the pathogenesis of PD. In this study, astrocytic Kir6.1 knockout (KO) mice were used to examine the effect of astrocytic Kir6.1/K-ATP channel on astrocytic complement activation triggered by the lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here, we found that astrocytic Kir6.1 KO mice showed more dopaminergic neuron loss and more astrocyte reactivity in substantia nigra compacta than controls. We also found that astrocytic Kir6.1 KO increased the expression of complement C3 in astrocytes in LPS-induced mouse model of PD. Mechanistically, astrocytic Kir6.1 KO promoted astroglial NF-κB activation to elicit extracellular release of C3, which in turn interacted with neuronal C3aR to induce neuron death. Blocking complement function by NF-κB inhibitor or C3aR antagonist rescued the aggravated neuron death induced by Kir6.1 KO. Collectively, our findings reveal that astrocytic Kir6.1/K-ATP channel prevents neurodegeneration in PD via astrocyte-neuron cross talk through NF-κB/C3/C3aR signaling and suggest that targeting astroglial Kir6.1/K-ATP channel-NF-κB-C3-neuronal C3aR signaling represents a novel therapeutic strategy for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Miao Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, PR China
| | - Zhao-Li Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, PR China
| | - Jian-Hua Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, PR China
| | - Ren-Hong Du
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, PR China.
| | - Gang Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, PR China; Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, PR China.
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Demirs JT, Yang J, Crowley MA, Twarog M, Delgado O, Qiu Y, Poor S, Rice DS, Dryja TP, Anderson K, Liao SM. Differential and Altered Spatial Distribution of Complement Expression in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:26. [PMID: 34160562 PMCID: PMC8237111 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.7.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Dysregulation of the alternative complement pathway is a major pathogenic mechanism in age-related macular degeneration. We investigated whether locally synthesized complement components contribute to AMD by profiling complement expression in postmortem eyes with and without AMD. Methods AMD severity grade 1 to 4 was determined by analysis of postmortem acquired fundus images and hematoxylin and eosin stained histological sections. TaqMan (donor eyes n = 39) and RNAscope/in situ hybridization (n = 10) were performed to detect complement mRNA. Meso scale discovery assay and Western blot (n = 31) were used to measure complement protein levels. Results The levels of complement mRNA and protein expression were approximately 15- to 100-fold (P < 0.0001–0.001) higher in macular retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid tissue than in neural retina, regardless of AMD grade status. Complement mRNA and protein levels were modestly elevated in vitreous and the macular neural retina in eyes with geographic atrophy (GA), but not in eyes with early or intermediate AMD, compared to normal eyes. Alternative and classical pathway complement mRNAs (C3, CFB, CFH, CFI, C1QA) identified by RNAscope were conspicuous in areas of atrophy; in those areas C3 mRNA was observed in a subset of IBA1+ microglia or macrophages. Conclusions We verified that RPE/choroid contains most ocular complement; thus RPE/choroid rather than the neural retina or vitreous is likely to be the key site for complement inhibition to treat GA or earlier stage of the disease. Outer retinal local production of complement mRNAs along with evidence of increased complement activation is a feature of GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Demirs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Junzheng Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Maura A Crowley
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Michael Twarog
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Omar Delgado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Yubin Qiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Stephen Poor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Dennis S Rice
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Thaddeus P Dryja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Karen Anderson
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Sha-Mei Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
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Campello L, Singh N, Advani J, Mondal AK, Corso-Diaz X, Swaroop A. Aging of the Retina: Molecular and Metabolic Turbulences and Potential Interventions. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2021; 7:633-664. [PMID: 34061570 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-100419-114940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Multifaceted and divergent manifestations across tissues and cell types have curtailed advances in deciphering the cellular events that accompany advanced age and contribute to morbidities and mortalities. Increase in human lifespan during the past century has heightened awareness of the need to prevent age-associated frailty of neuronal and sensory systems to allow a healthy and productive life. In this review, we discuss molecular and physiological attributes of aging of the retina, with a goal of understanding age-related impairment of visual function. We highlight the epigenome-metabolism nexus and proteostasis as key contributors to retinal aging and discuss lifestyle changes as potential modulators of retinal function. Finally, we deliberate promising intervention strategies for promoting healthy aging of the retina for improved vision. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Vision Science, Volume 7 is September 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Campello
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Nivedita Singh
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Jayshree Advani
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Anupam K Mondal
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Ximena Corso-Diaz
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA;
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47
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Wang J, Struebing FL, Geisert EE. Commonalities of optic nerve injury and glaucoma-induced neurodegeneration: Insights from transcriptome-wide studies. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108571. [PMID: 33844961 PMCID: PMC9890784 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a collection of diseases that lead to an irreversible vision loss due to damage of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Although the underlying events leading to RGC death are not fully understood, recent research efforts are beginning to define the genetic changes that play a critical role in the initiation and progression of glaucomatous injury and RGC death. Several genetic and experimental animal models have been developed to mimic glaucomatous neurodegeneration. These models differ in many respects but all result in the loss of RGCs. Assessing transcriptional changes across different models could provide a more complete perspective on the molecular drivers of RGC degeneration. For the past several decades, changes in the retinal transcriptome during neurodegeneration process were defined using microarray methods, RNA sequencing and now single cell RNA sequencing. It is understood that these methods have strengths and weaknesses due to technical differences and variations in the analytical tools used. In this review, we focus on the use of transcriptome-wide expression profiling of the changes occurring as RGCs are lost across different glaucoma models. Commonalities of optic nerve crush and glaucoma-induced neurodegeneration are identified and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxing Wang
- Emory Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, 1365B Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Felix L. Struebing
- Center for Neuropathology and Prion Research, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany,Department for Translational Brain Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Eldon E. Geisert
- Emory Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, 1365B Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA,Corresponding author: (E.E. Geisert)
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48
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Zhao X, Sun R, Luo X, Wang F, Sun X. The Interaction Between Microglia and Macroglia in Glaucoma. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:610788. [PMID: 34121982 PMCID: PMC8193936 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.610788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disease that leads to irreversible vision loss, is characterized by progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic axons. To date, elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) has been recognized as the main phenotypic factor associated with glaucoma. However, some patients with normal IOP also have glaucomatous visual impairment and RGC loss. Unfortunately, the underlying mechanisms behind such cases remain unclear. Recent studies have suggested that retinal glia play significant roles in the initiation and progression of glaucoma. Multiple types of glial cells are activated in glaucoma. Microglia, for example, act as critical mediators that orchestrate the progression of neuroinflammation through pro-inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, macroglia (astrocytes and Müller cells) participate in retinal inflammatory responses as modulators and contribute to neuroprotection through the secretion of neurotrophic factors. Notably, research results have indicated that intricate interactions between microglia and macroglia might provide potential therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of glaucoma. In this review, we examine the specific roles of microglia and macroglia in open-angle glaucoma, including glaucoma in animal models, and analyze the interaction between these two cell types. In addition, we discuss potential treatment options based on the relationship between glial cells and neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohuan Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rou Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueting Luo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai General Hospital, The Center for Microbiota and Immunological Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
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Niu T, Fang J, Shi X, Zhao M, Xing X, Wang Y, Zhu S, Liu K. Pathogenesis Study Based on High-Throughput Single-Cell Sequencing Analysis Reveals Novel Transcriptional Landscape and Heterogeneity of Retinal Cells in Type 2 Diabetic Mice. Diabetes 2021; 70:1185-1197. [PMID: 33674409 DOI: 10.2337/db20-0839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of acquired blindness in middle-aged people. The complex pathology of DR is difficult to dissect, given the convoluted cytoarchitecture of the retina. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of retina from a model of type 2 diabetes, induced in leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) and control db/m mice, with the aim of elucidating the factors mediating the pathogenesis of DR. We identified 11 cell types and determined cell-type-specific expression of DR-associated loci via genome-wide association study (GWAS)-based enrichment analysis. DR also impacted cell-type-specific genes and altered cell-cell communication. Based on the scRNA-seq results, retinaldehyde-binding protein 1 (RLBP1) was investigated as a promising therapeutic target for DR. Retinal RLBP1 expression was decreased in diabetes, and its overexpression in Müller glia mitigated DR-associated neurovascular degeneration. These data provide a detailed analysis of the retina under diabetic and normal conditions, revealing new insights into pathogenic factors that may be targeted to treat DR and related dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Niu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengya Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xindan Xing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaopin Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photo Medicine; and Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
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50
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Armento A, Ueffing M, Clark SJ. The complement system in age-related macular degeneration. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4487-4505. [PMID: 33751148 PMCID: PMC8195907 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03796-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic and progressive degenerative disease of the retina, which culminates in blindness and affects mainly the elderly population. AMD pathogenesis and pathophysiology are incredibly complex due to the structural and cellular complexity of the retina, and the variety of risk factors and molecular mechanisms that contribute to disease onset and progression. AMD is driven by a combination of genetic predisposition, natural ageing changes and lifestyle factors, such as smoking or nutritional intake. The mechanism by which these risk factors interact and converge towards AMD are not fully understood and therefore drug discovery is challenging, where no therapeutic attempt has been fully effective thus far. Genetic and molecular studies have identified the complement system as an important player in AMD. Indeed, many of the genetic risk variants cluster in genes of the alternative pathway of the complement system and complement activation products are elevated in AMD patients. Nevertheless, attempts in treating AMD via complement regulators have not yet been successful, suggesting a level of complexity that could not be predicted only from a genetic point of view. In this review, we will explore the role of complement system in AMD development and in the main molecular and cellular features of AMD, including complement activation itself, inflammation, ECM stability, energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Armento
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Simon J Clark
- Department for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Department for Ophthalmology, University Eye Clinic, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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