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Scarabosio A, Surico PL, Tereshenko V, Singh RB, Salati C, Spadea L, Caputo G, Parodi PC, Gagliano C, Winograd JM, Zeppieri M. Whole-eye transplantation: Current challenges and future perspectives. World J Transplant 2024; 14:95009. [DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v14.i2.95009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Whole-eye transplantation emerges as a frontier in ophthalmology, promising a transformative approach to irreversible blindness. Despite advancements, formidable challenges persist. Preservation of donor eye viability post-enucleation necessitates meticulous surgical techniques to optimize retinal integrity and ganglion cell survival. Overcoming the inhibitory milieu of the central nervous system for successful optic nerve regeneration remains elusive, prompting the exploration of neurotrophic support and immunomodulatory interventions. Immunological tolerance, paramount for graft acceptance, confronts the distinctive immunogenicity of ocular tissues, driving research into targeted immunosuppression strategies. Ethical and legal considerations underscore the necessity for stringent standards and ethical frameworks. Interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing research endeavors are imperative to navigate these complexities. Biomaterials, stem cell therapies, and precision immunomodulation represent promising avenues in this pursuit. Ultimately, the aim of this review is to critically assess the current landscape of whole-eye transplantation, elucidating the challenges and advancements while delineating future directions for research and clinical practice. Through concerted efforts, whole-eye transplantation stands to revolutionize ophthalmic care, offering hope for restored vision and enhanced quality of life for those afflicted with blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Scarabosio
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Pier Luigi Surico
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Vlad Tereshenko
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Rohan Bir Singh
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome 00142, Italy
| | - Glenda Caputo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Pier Camillo Parodi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna "Kore", Enna 94100, Italy
- Eye Clinic Catania University San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Jonathan M Winograd
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
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Jayaram H, Kolko M, Friedman DS, Gazzard G. Glaucoma: now and beyond. Lancet 2023; 402:1788-1801. [PMID: 37742700 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01289-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The glaucomas are a group of conditions leading to irreversible sight loss and characterised by progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells. Although not always elevated, intraocular pressure is the only modifiable risk factor demonstrated by large clinical trials. It remains the leading cause of irreversible blindness, but timely treatment to lower intraocular pressure is effective at slowing the rate of vision loss from glaucoma. Methods for lowering intraocular pressure include laser treatments, topical medications, and surgery. Although modern surgical innovations aim to be less invasive, many have been introduced with little supporting evidence from randomised controlled trials. Many cases remain undiagnosed until the advanced stages of disease due to the limitations of screening and poor access to opportunistic case finding. Future research aims to generate evidence for intraocular pressure-independent neuroprotective treatments, personalised treatment through genetic risk profiling, and exploration of potential advanced cellular and gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Jayaram
- Glaucoma Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; National Institute for Health and Care Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Miriam Kolko
- Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David S Friedman
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital, Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gus Gazzard
- Glaucoma Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; National Institute for Health and Care Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK.
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3
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Sharif NA. Electrical, Electromagnetic, Ultrasound Wave Therapies, and Electronic Implants for Neuronal Rejuvenation, Neuroprotection, Axonal Regeneration, and IOP Reduction. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:477-498. [PMID: 36126293 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) of mammals and nervous systems of lower organisms possess significant regenerative potential. In contrast, although neural plasticity can provide some compensation, the central nervous system (CNS) neurons and nerves of adult mammals generally fail to regenerate after an injury or damage. However, use of diverse electrical, electromagnetic and sonographic energy waves are illuminating novel ways to stimulate neuronal differentiation, proliferation, neurite growth, and axonal elongation/regeneration leading to various levels of functional recovery in animals and humans afflicted with disorders of the CNS, PNS, retina, and optic nerve. Tools such as acupuncture, electroacupuncture, electroshock therapy, electrical stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, red light therapy, and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy are demonstrating efficacy in treating many different maladies. These include wound healing, partial recovery from motor dysfunctions, recovery from ischemic/reperfusion insults and CNS and ocular remyelination, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) rejuvenation, and RGC axonal regeneration. Neural rejuvenation and axonal growth/regeneration processes involve activation or intensifying of the intrinsic bioelectric waves (action potentials) that exist in every neuronal circuit of the body. In addition, reparative factors released at the nerve terminals and via neuronal dendrites (transmitter substances), extracellular vesicles containing microRNAs and neurotrophins, and intercellular communication occurring via nanotubes aid in reestablishing lost or damaged connections between the traumatized tissues and the PNS and CNS. Many other beneficial effects of the aforementioned treatment paradigms are mediated via gene expression alterations such as downregulation of inflammatory and death-signal genes and upregulation of neuroprotective and cytoprotective genes. These varied techniques and technologies will be described and discussed covering cell-based and animal model-based studies. Data from clinical applications and linkage to human ocular diseases will also be discussed where relevant translational research has been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, California, USA
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Insitute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
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4
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Tao Y, Zhang Q, Meng M, Huang J. A bibliometric analysis of the application of stem cells in glaucoma research from 1999 to 2022. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1081898. [PMID: 36743419 PMCID: PMC9889543 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1081898] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disease of the retina, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Stem cells have therapeutic potential for glaucoma. However, few bibliometric studies have been published in this field. Concerning a visual map, this article aims to characterize the research context, cooperation relationship, hotspots, and trends concerning the application of stem cells in glaucoma research. Methods: Publications focusing on stem cell research and glaucoma were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Microsoft Excel, and Scimago Graphica were used to map the contributions of countries or regions, authors, organizations, and journals. Journal Impact Factor data were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the tendencies, hotspots, and knowledge networks using VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Results: We analyzed 518 articles published from 1999 through 2022. In the first decade, the number of articles in this field increased slowly, and there was a marked acceleration in publication frequency after 2010. The United States, China, and England were the main contributors. Yiqin Du was the most prolific author, and among the top 10 prolific writers, Keith R. Martin's work was cited most frequently. Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Experimental Eye Research, and Cornea published the most articles in this domain. The three most commonly co-cited journals were Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Experimental Eye Research, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. The Central South University, the University of Pittsburgh, and the National Institutes of Health National Eye Institute were highly prolific institutions in this research area. Our keywords analysis with VOSviewer suggested directions of future research and yielded the following recent key themes, extracellular vesicles, exosomes, mitochondria, growth factors, oxidative stress, and ocular diseases. Four co-cited references had a citation burst duration until 2022. Conclusion: With improvements in overall quality of life and demographic transitions toward population aging, research and clinical focus on eye care has increased, with glaucoma as a key area of emphasis. This study added to our understanding of the global landscape and Frontier hotspots in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Tao
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Meng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jufang Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Kong AW, Ou Y. The Catcher in the Eye: Stem Cells as a Therapeutic for Glaucoma. Ophthalmol Glaucoma 2023; 6:1-3. [PMID: 35988004 PMCID: PMC10467448 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogla.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alan W Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, California
| | - Yvonne Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, California.
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Sharif NA. Degeneration of retina-brain components and connections in glaucoma: Disease causation and treatment options for eyesight preservation. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 3:100037. [PMID: 36685768 PMCID: PMC9846481 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2022.100037] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Eyesight is the most important of our sensory systems for optimal daily activities and overall survival. Patients who experience visual impairment due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are often those afflicted with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) which slowly robs them of their vision unless treatment is administered soon after diagnosis. The hallmark features of POAG and other forms of glaucoma are damaged optic nerve, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and atrophied RGC axons connecting to various brain regions associated with receipt of visual input from the eyes and eventual decoding and perception of images in the visual cortex. Even though increased IOP is the major risk factor for POAG, the disease is caused by many injurious chemicals and events that progress slowly within all components of the eye-brain visual axis. Lowering of IOP mitigates the damage to some extent with existing drugs, surgical and device implantation therapeutic interventions. However, since multifactorial degenerative processes occur during aging and with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, different forms of neuroprotective, nutraceutical and electroceutical regenerative and revitalizing agents and processes are being considered to combat these eye-brain disorders. These aspects form the basis of this short review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A. Sharif
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore,Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA,Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK,Department of Pharmacy Sciences, School of School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
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7
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Zhou J, Chen F, Yan A, Jiang J, Xia X. Hyperglycemia induces retinal ganglion cell endoplasmic reticulum stress to the involvement of glaucoma in diabetic mice. Transpl Immunol 2022; 73:101636. [PMID: 35659921 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2022.101636] [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: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease leading to visual loss. Since glaucoma is associated with chronic renal diseases (RDs) their rate is higher in patients with RDs, and end-stage RDs (ESRDs) than in the general population and kidney transplant recipients. OBJECTIVE To explore the molecular mechanism of diabetic internal environment in regulating the endoplasmic reticulum stress of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). METHODS Thirty-six SPF grade type 2 diabetes models were divided into 3 groups: Diabetes mellitus (DM), DM + glaucoma and 4-phenylbutyric acid-DM (4-PBA-DM) + glaucoma group. C57BL6 mice of the same week age were taken as the negative control (NC) group. The morphology of RGCs and their axon in the 4 groups were labeled by fluorescent reactive dye Dil. The apoptosis situation of RGCs was determined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) assay. The protein expression values of RTN4IP1, Protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), eukaryotic initiation factor 2A (eIF2a) and X-box-binding Protein 1 (XBP1) were determined by western blot. The relative mRNA levels of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (CHOP), Caspase12 and Bax were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS Glaucoma promotes the apoptosis of RGCs. The protein expression values of RTN4IP1, PERK and XBP1 in DM mouse models with glaucoma were much higher compared to only DM mouse models. Further injection of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitor 4-PBA decreased the expression values. The relative mRNA levels of CHOP, Cysteine aspartic acid specific protease12 (Caspase12) and BCL2-associated X protein (Bax) in DM + glaucoma were significantly higher compared to those in DM group. Further injection of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitor 4-PBA decreased the mRNA levels. CONCLUSION Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is the underlying cause of glaucoma, which could promote the apoptosis of RGCs in diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, Guizhou 550002, PR China.
| | - Fenghua Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, Guizhou 550002, PR China
| | - Aimin Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, Guizhou 550002, PR China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, PR China
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Stephenson KAJ, McAndrew J, Kenna PF, Cassidy L. The Natural History of Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy in an Irish Population and Assessment for Prognostic Biomarkers. Neuroophthalmology 2022; 46:159-170. [PMID: 35574161 PMCID: PMC9103396 DOI: 10.1080/01658107.2022.2032761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study we have assessed the clinical and genetic characteristics of an Irish Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) cohort and assessed for useful biomarkers of visual prognosis. We carried out a retrospective review of clinical data of patients with genetically confirmed LHON presenting to an Irish tertiary referral ophthalmic hospital. LHON diagnosis was made on classic clinical signs with genetic confirmation. Alternate diagnoses were excluded with serological investigations and neuro-imaging. Serial logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity (VA) was stratified into 'on-chart' for logMAR 1.0 or better and 'off-chart' if worse than logMAR 1.0. Serial optical coherence tomography scans of the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC) monitored structure. Idebenone-treated and untreated patients were contrasted. Statistical analyses were performed to assess correlations of presenting characteristics with final VA. Forty-four patients from 34 pedigrees were recruited, of which 87% were male and 75% harboured the 11778 mutation. Legal blindness status was reached in 56.8% of patients by final review (mean 74 months). Preservation of initial nasal RNFL was the best predictor of on-chart final VA. Females had worse final VA than males and patients presenting at < 20 years of age had superior final VA. Idebenone therapy (50% of cohort) yielded no statistically significant benefit to final VA, although study design precludes definitive comment on efficacy. The reported cases represent the calculated majority of LHON pedigrees in Ireland. Visual outcomes were universally poor; however, VA may not be the most appropriate outcome measure and certain patient-reported outcome measures may be of more use when assessing future LHON interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk A. J. Stephenson
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland,CONTACT Kirk A. J. Stephenson Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Adelaide Road, Dublin2 D02 XK51, Ireland
| | - Joseph McAndrew
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul F. Kenna
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lorraine Cassidy
- Department of Neuro-ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Cell-Based Neuroprotection of Retinal Ganglion Cells in Animal Models of Optic Neuropathies. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10111181. [PMID: 34827174 PMCID: PMC8615038 DOI: 10.3390/biology10111181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) comprise a heterogenous group of projection neurons that transmit visual information from the retina to the brain. Progressive degeneration of these cells, as it occurs in inflammatory, ischemic, traumatic or glaucomatous optic neuropathies, results in visual deterioration and is among the leading causes of irreversible blindness. Treatment options for these diseases are limited. Neuroprotective approaches aim to slow down and eventually halt the loss of ganglion cells in these disorders. In this review, we have summarized preclinical studies that have evaluated the efficacy of cell-based neuroprotective treatment strategies to rescue retinal ganglion cells from cell death. Intraocular transplantations of diverse genetically nonmodified cell types or cells engineered to overexpress neurotrophic factors have been demonstrated to result in significant attenuation of ganglion cell loss in animal models of different optic neuropathies. Cell-based combinatorial neuroprotective approaches represent a potential strategy to further increase the survival rates of retinal ganglion cells. However, data about the long-term impact of the different cell-based treatment strategies on retinal ganglion cell survival and detailed analyses of potential adverse effects of a sustained intraocular delivery of neurotrophic factors on retina structure and function are limited, making it difficult to assess their therapeutic potential.
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Sharif NA. Therapeutic Drugs and Devices for Tackling Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma, and Need for Neuroprotection and Cytoprotective Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:729249. [PMID: 34603044 PMCID: PMC8484316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.729249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the optic nerve and the death of associated retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), also known as glaucoma, is responsible for visual impairment and blindness in millions of people worldwide. The ocular hypertension (OHT) and the deleterious mechanical forces it exerts at the back of the eye, at the level of the optic nerve head/optic disc and lamina cribosa, is the only modifiable risk factor associated with glaucoma that can be treated. The elevated IOP occurs due to the inability of accumulated aqueous humor (AQH) to egress from the anterior chamber of the eye due to occlusion of the major outflow pathway, the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm’s canal (SC). Several different classes of pharmaceutical agents, surgical techniques and implantable devices have been developed to lower and control IOP. First-line drugs to promote AQH outflow via the uveoscleral outflow pathway include FP-receptor prostaglandin (PG) agonists (e.g., latanoprost, travoprost and tafluprost) and a novel non-PG EP2-receptor agonist (omidenepag isopropyl, Eybelis®). TM/SC outflow enhancing drugs are also effective ocular hypotensive agents (e.g., rho kinase inhibitors like ripasudil and netarsudil; and latanoprostene bunod, a conjugate of a nitric oxide donor and latanoprost). One of the most effective anterior chamber AQH microshunt devices is the Preserflo® microshunt which can lower IOP down to 10–13 mmHg. Other IOP-lowering drugs and devices on the horizon will be also discussed. Additionally, since elevated IOP is only one of many risk factors for development of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, a treatise of the role of inflammatory neurodegeneration of the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells and appropriate neuroprotective strategies to mitigate this disease will also be reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, CA, United States
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11
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Retinal Ganglion Cell Transplantation: Approaches for Overcoming Challenges to Functional Integration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061426. [PMID: 34200991 PMCID: PMC8228580 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the central nervous system, mammalian retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) lack significant regenerative capacity. Glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging RGCs and their axons, which compose the optic nerve. To functionally restore vision, lost RGCs must be replaced. Despite tremendous advancements in experimental models of optic neuropathy that have elucidated pathways to induce endogenous RGC neuroprotection and axon regeneration, obstacles to achieving functional visual recovery through exogenous RGC transplantation remain. Key challenges include poor graft survival, low donor neuron localization to the host retina, and inadequate dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis with afferent amacrine and bipolar cells. In this review, we summarize the current state of experimental RGC transplantation, and we propose a set of standard approaches to quantifying and reporting experimental outcomes in order to guide a collective effort to advance the field toward functional RGC replacement and optic nerve regeneration.
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Hua ZQ, Liu H, Wang N, Jin ZB. Towards stem cell-based neuronal regeneration for glaucoma. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2020; 257:99-118. [PMID: 32988476 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease as a leading cause of global blindness. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) apoptosis and optic nerve damage are the main pathological changes. Patients have elevated intraocular pressure and progressive visual field loss. Unfortunately, current treatments for glaucoma merely stay at delaying the disease progression. As a promising treatment, stem cell-based neuronal regeneration therapy holds potential for glaucoma, thereby great efforts have been paid on it. RGC regeneration and transplantation are key approaches for the future treatment of glaucoma. A line of studies have shown that a variety of cells can be used to regenerate RGCs, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). In this review, we overview the current progress on the regeneration of pluripotent stem cell-derived RGCs and outlook the perspective and challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Qi Hua
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ningli Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
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Tunneling Nanotubes and the Eye: Intercellular Communication and Implications for Ocular Health and Disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:7246785. [PMID: 32352005 PMCID: PMC7171654 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7246785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cellular communication is an essential process for the development and maintenance of all tissues including the eye. Recently, a new method of cellular communication has been described, which relies on formation of tubules, called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). These structures connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells and allow the direct transport of cellular cargo between cells without the need for secretion into the extracellular milieu. TNTs may be an important mechanism for signaling between cells that reside long distances from each other or for cells in aqueous environments, where diffusion-based signaling is challenging. Given the wide range of cargoes transported, such as lysosomes, endosomes, mitochondria, viruses, and miRNAs, TNTs may play a role in normal homeostatic processes in the eye as well as function in ocular disease. This review will describe TNT cellular communication in ocular cell cultures and the mammalian eye in vivo, the role of TNTs in mitochondrial transport with an emphasis on mitochondrial eye diseases, and molecules involved in TNT biogenesis and their function in eyes, and finally, we will describe TNT formation in inflammation, cancer, and stem cells, focusing on pathological processes of particular interest to vision scientists.
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14
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Suen HC, Qian Y, Liao J, Luk CS, Lee WT, Ng JKW, Chan TTH, Hou HW, Li I, Li K, Chan WY, Feng B, Gao L, Jiang X, Liu YH, Rudd JA, Hobbs R, Qi H, Ng TK, Mak HK, Leung KS, Lee TL. Transplantation of Retinal Ganglion Cells Derived from Male Germline Stem Cell as a Potential Treatment to Glaucoma. Stem Cells Dev 2019; 28:1365-1375. [PMID: 31580778 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration and is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. However, current treatments such as eye drop or surgery have limitations and do not target the loss of RGC. Regenerative therapy using embryonic stem cells (ESCs) holds a promising option, but ethical concern hinders clinical applications on human subjects. In this study, we employed spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) as an alternative source of ESCs for cell-based regenerative therapy in mouse glaucoma model. We generated functional RGCs from SSCs with a two-step protocol without applying viral transfection or chemical induction. SSCs were first dedifferentiated to embryonic stem-like cells (SSC-ESCs) that resemble ESCs in morphology, gene expression signatures, and stem cell properties. The SSC-ESCs then differentiated toward retinal lineages. We showed SSC-ESC-derived retinal cells expressed RGC-specific marker Brn3b and functioned as bona fide RGCs. To allow in vivo RGC tracing, Brn3b-EGFP reporter SSC-ESCs were generated and the derived RGCs were subsequently transplanted into the retina of glaucoma mouse models by intravitreal injection. We demonstrated that the transplanted RGCs could survive in host retina for at least 10 days after transplantation. SSC-ESC-derived RGCs can thus potentially be a novel alternative to replace the damaged RGCs in glaucomatous retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Ching Suen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yan Qian
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jinyue Liao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chun Shui Luk
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Tung Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Judy Kin Wing Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Thomas Ting Hei Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hei Wan Hou
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ingrid Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kit Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wai-Yee Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bo Feng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lin Gao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuen Hang Liu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - John A Rudd
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Robin Hobbs
- Aust Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Huayu Qi
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Heather Kayew Mak
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kai Shun Leung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tin-Lap Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
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15
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Dey A, Manthey AL, Chiu K, Do CW. Methods to Induce Chronic Ocular Hypertension: Reliable Rodent Models as a Platform for Cell Transplantation and Other Therapies. Cell Transplant 2019; 27:213-229. [PMID: 29637819 PMCID: PMC5898687 DOI: 10.1177/0963689717724793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, a form of progressive optic neuropathy, is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Being a prominent disease affecting vision, substantial efforts are being made to better understand glaucoma pathogenesis and to develop novel treatment options including neuroprotective and neuroregenerative approaches. Cell transplantation has the potential to play a neuroprotective and/or neuroregenerative role for various ocular cell types (e.g., retinal cells, trabecular meshwork). Notably, glaucoma is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, and over the past 2 decades, several rodent models of chronic ocular hypertension (COH) have been developed that reflect these changes in pressure. However, the underlying pathophysiology of glaucoma in these models and how they compare to the human condition remains unclear. This limitation is the primary barrier for using rodent models to develop novel therapies to manage glaucoma and glaucoma-related blindness. Here, we review the current techniques used to induce COH-related glaucoma in various rodent models, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of the each, in order to provide a more complete understanding of how these models can be best utilized. To so do, we have separated them based on the target tissue (pre-trabecular, trabecular, and post-trabecular) in order to provide the reader with an encompassing reference describing the most appropriate rodent COH models for their research. We begin with an initial overview of the current use of these models in the evaluation of cell transplantation therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashim Dey
- 1 School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Abby L Manthey
- 2 Laboratory of Retina Brain Research, Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin Chiu
- 2 Laboratory of Retina Brain Research, Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,3 Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,4 State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi-Wai Do
- 1 School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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16
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Mesentier-Louro LA, Dodd R, Domizi P, Nobuta H, Wernig M, Wernig G, Liao YJ. Direct targeting of the mouse optic nerve for therapeutic delivery. J Neurosci Methods 2019; 313:1-5. [PMID: 30389488 PMCID: PMC10870831 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal models of optic nerve injury are often used to study central nervous system (CNS) degeneration and regeneration, and targeting the optic nerve is a powerful approach for axon-protective or remyelination therapy. However, the experimental delivery of drugs or cells to the optic nerve is rarely performed because injections into this structure are difficult in small animals, especially in mice. NEW METHOD We investigated and developed methods to deliver drugs or cells to the mouse optic nerve through 3 different routes: a) intraorbital, b) through the optic foramen and c) transcranial. RESULTS The methods targeted different parts of the mouse optic nerve: intraorbital proximal (intraorbital), intracranial middle (optic-foramen) or intracranial distal (transcranial) portion. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Most existing methods target the optic nerve indirectly. For instance, intravitreally delivered cells often cannot cross the inner limiting membrane to reach retinal neurons and optic nerve axons. Systemic delivery, eye drops and intraventricular injections do not always successfully target the optic nerve. Intraorbital and transcranial injections into the optic nerve or chiasm have been performed but these methods have not been well described. We approached the optic nerve with more selective and precise targeting than existing methods. CONCLUSIONS We successfully targeted the murine optic nerve intraorbitally, through the optic foramen, and transcranially. Of all methods, the injection through the optic foramen is likely the most innovative and fastest. These methods offer additional approaches for therapeutic intervention to be used by those studying white matter damage and axonal regeneration in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Dodd
- Department of Neurosurgery Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Pablo Domizi
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Hiroko Nobuta
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Marius Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Gerlinde Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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17
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Flachsbarth K, Jankowiak W, Kruszewski K, Helbing S, Bartsch S, Bartsch U. Pronounced synergistic neuroprotective effect of GDNF and CNTF on axotomized retinal ganglion cells in the adult mouse. Exp Eye Res 2018; 176:258-265. [PMID: 30237104 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuroprotection is among the potential treatment options for glaucoma and other retinal pathologies characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Here, we examined the impact of a neural stem (NS) cell-based intravitreal co-administration of two neuroprotective factors on the survival of axotomized RGCs. To this aim we used lentiviral vectors to establish clonal NS cell lines ectopically expressing either glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) or ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). The modified NS cell lines were intravitreally injected either separately or as a 1:1 mixture into adult mice one day after an optic nerve lesion, and the number of surviving RGCs was determined in retinal flat-mounts two, four and eight weeks after the lesion. For the transplantation experiments, we selected a GDNF- and a CNTF-expressing NS cell line that promoted the survival of axotomized RGCs with a similar efficacy. Eight weeks after the lesion, GDNF-treated retinas contained 3.8- and CNTF-treated retinas 3.7-fold more RGCs than control retinas. Of note, the number of surviving RGCs was markedly increased when both factors were administered simultaneously, with 14.3-fold more RGCs than in control retinas eight weeks after the lesion. GDNF and CNTF thus potently and synergistically rescued RGCs from axotomy-induced cell death, indicating that combinatorial neuroprotective approaches represent a promising strategy to effectively promote the survival of RGCs under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Flachsbarth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wanda Jankowiak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Kruszewski
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Helbing
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Udo Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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18
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Wu S, Chang KC, Nahmou M, Goldberg JL. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Promote Retinal Ganglion Cell Survival After Transplant. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:1571-1576. [PMID: 29625481 PMCID: PMC5863687 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to characterize whether induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) affect survival of grafted retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after transplantation. Methods For in vitro studies, human iPSCs were either directly cocultured with mouse RGCs or plated in hanging inserts in RGC cultures for 1 week. For ex vivo studies, RGCs and iPSCs were seeded onto the inner surface of an adult rat retina explant and cultured for 1 week. For in vivo studies, RGCs and iPSCs were intravitreally coinjected into an adult rat eye 1 week before examining retinas by explant and immunostaining. Results A dose-dependent increase in RGC survival was observed in RGC-iPSC direct cocultures, and RGC-iPSC indirect cocultures showed a similar RGC protective effect, but to a lesser extent than in direct coculture. Enhanced RGC survival was also identified in RGC-iPSC cotransplantations to adult retinas ex vivo and in vivo. In addition, RGCs with iPSC cotransplantation extended significantly longer neurites than RGC-only transplants. Conclusions Human iPSCs promote transplanted RGC survival and neurite extension. This effect may be mediated at least partially through secretion of diffusible neuroprotective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suqian Wu
- Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Byers Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Byers Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Michael Nahmou
- Byers Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Byers Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, United States
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19
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Harnessing the Power of Genetic Engineering for Patients With Mitochondrial Eye Diseases. J Neuroophthalmol 2018; 37:56-64. [PMID: 28187082 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000000476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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20
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Yu-Wai-Man P, Newman NJ. Inherited eye-related disorders due to mitochondrial dysfunction. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 26:R12-R20. [PMID: 28481993 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic disorders due to mitochondrial dysfunction are not uncommon and the majority of these patients will have eye-related manifestations, including visual loss from the optic nerve and retinal disease, visual field loss from retrochiasmal visual pathway damage, and ptosis and ocular dysmotility from extraocular muscle involvement. Defects in both the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes cause mitochondrial dysfunction via several mechanisms, including impaired mitochondrial energy production, oxidative stress, mitochondrial DNA instability, abnormalities in the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial quality control, and disturbed cellular interorganellar communication. Advances in our understanding of the molecular genetic basis of mitochondrial disease have not only improved genetic diagnosis, but they have provided important insights into the pathophysiologic basis of these disorders and potential therapeutic targets. In parallel, more sophisticated techniques for genetic manipulation are facilitating the development of animal and in vitro models that should prove powerful and versatile tools for disease modelling and therapeutic experimentation. Effective therapies for mitochondrial disorders are beginning to translate from bench to bedside along the paths of neuroprotection, gene replacement and stem cell-based regenerative paradigms. Additionally, preventing the transmission of pathogenic mtDNA mutations from mother to child is now a reality with in vitro fertilization mitochondrial replacement techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nancy J Newman
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology and Neurological Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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21
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Li X, Zhao S, Wang L. Therapeutic effect of adipose‑derived stem cell transplantation on optic nerve injury in rats. Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:2529-2534. [PMID: 29207059 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.8103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are mesenchymal stem cells in adipose tissue. ADSCs may differentiate into cells and tissues of different embryonic germ layers under specific inducing conditions. Previous studies have demonstrated that Schwann cells transformed from ADSCs can express nerve growth factors, generate nerve fibers and promote axonal regeneration in models of peripheral nerve injury. Stem cell transplantation is one of the potential techniques for the treatment of retinal ganglion cell injury. The present study developed an optic nerve crush injury rat model to investigate the therapeutic effect of fat stem cell transplantation on optic nerve injured rats. Retinal morphological changes were observed on day 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 following optic nerve injury. It was determined that the number of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) decreased with time following optic nerve injury; however, the number of RGCs in the stem cell transplantation group was higher compared with the buffer control group. The results of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction also demonstrated that the growth associated protein 43 mRNA expression level of the stem cell transplantation group was higher compared with the buffer control group. Apoptosis tests demonstrated that the stem cell transplantation group was able to resist the apoptosis of retinal cells. The present study demonstrated that in vivo transplantation of ADSCs can improve the survival rate of RGCs in rats with optic nerve injury and to resist the apoptosis of retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Yantai Infectious Diseases Hospital, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Shanyao Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Liangjun Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
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22
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Osborne A, Sanderson J, Martin KR. Neuroprotective Effects of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor on Human Retinal Ganglion Cells. Stem Cells 2017; 36:65-78. [PMID: 29044808 PMCID: PMC5765520 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Optic neuropathies such as glaucoma occur when retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the eye are injured. Strong evidence suggests mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could be a potential therapy to protect RGCs; however, little is known regarding their effect on the human retina. We, therefore, investigated if human MSCs (hMSCs), or platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) as produced by hMSC, could delay RGC death in a human retinal explant model of optic nerve injury. Our results showed hMSCs and the secreted growth factor PDGF‐AB could substantially reduce human RGC loss and apoptosis following axotomy. The neuroprotective pathways AKT, ERK, and STAT3 were activated in the retina shortly after treatments with labeling seen in the RGC layer. A dose dependent protective effect of PDGF‐AB was observed in human retinal explants but protection was not as substantial as that achieved by culturing hMSCs on the retina surface which resulted in RGC cell counts similar to those immediately post dissection. These results demonstrate that hMSCs and PDGF have strong neuroprotective action on human RGCs and may offer a translatable, therapeutic strategy to reduce degenerative visual loss. Stem Cells2018;36:65–78
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Osborne
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Sanderson
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Keith R Martin
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Eye Department, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council, Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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23
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Divya MS, Rasheed VA, Schmidt T, Lalitha S, Hattar S, James J. Intraocular Injection of ES Cell-Derived Neural Progenitors Improve Visual Function in Retinal Ganglion Cell-Depleted Mouse Models. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:295. [PMID: 28979193 PMCID: PMC5611488 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) transplantation is a promising strategy to restore visual function resulting from irreversible RGC degeneration occurring in glaucoma or inherited optic neuropathies. We previously demonstrated FGF2 induced differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESC) to RGC lineage, capable of retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL) integration upon transplantation. Here, we evaluated possible improvement of visual function by transplantation of ES cell derived neural progenitors in RGC depleted glaucoma mice models. ESC derived neural progenitors (ES-NP) were transplanted into N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) injected, RGC-ablated mouse models and a pre-clinical glaucoma mouse model (DBA/2J) having sustained higher intra ocular pressure (IOP). Visual acuity and functional integration was evaluated by behavioral experiments and immunohistochemistry, respectively. GFP-expressing ES-NPs transplanted in NMDA-injected RGC-depleted mice differentiated into RGC lineage and possibly integrating into GCL. An improvement in visual acuity was observed after 2 months of transplantation, when compared to the pre-transplantation values. Expression of c-Fos in the transplanted cells, upon light induction, further suggests functional integration into the host retinal circuitry. However, the transplanted cells did not send axonal projections into optic nerve. Transplantation experiments in DBA/2J mouse showed no significant improvement in visual functions, possibly due to both host and transplanted retinal cell death which could be due to an inherent high IOP. We showed that, ES NPs transplanted into the retina of RGC-ablated mouse models could survive, differentiate to RGC lineage, and possibly integrate into GCL to improve visual function. However, for the survival of transplanted cells in glaucoma, strategies to control the IOP are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mundackal S Divya
- Neuro-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for BiotechnologyThiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Vazhanthodi A Rasheed
- Neuro-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for BiotechnologyThiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Tiffany Schmidt
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, MD, United States
| | - Soundararajan Lalitha
- Neuro-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for BiotechnologyThiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Samer Hattar
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jackson James
- Neuro-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for BiotechnologyThiruvananthapuram, India
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24
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Overview of retinal differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells: A promising approach for retinal cell therapy. Ann Anat 2016; 210:52-63. [PMID: 27986614 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Retinal disease caused by retinal cell apoptosis leads to irreversible vision loss. Stem cell investigation efforts have been made to solve and cure retinal disorders. There are several sources of stem cells which have been used in these experiments. Numerous studies demonstrated that transplanted stem cells can migrate into and integrate in different layers of retina. Among these, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were considered a promising source for cell therapy. Here, we review the literature assessing the potential of MSCs to differentiate into retinal cells in vivo and in vitro as well as their clinical application. However, more investigation is required to define the protocols that optimize stem cell differentiation and their functional integration in the retina.
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25
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Yuan J, Yu JX. Gender difference in the neuroprotective effect of rat bone marrow mesenchymal cells against hypoxia-induced apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:846-53. [PMID: 27335573 PMCID: PMC4904480 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.182764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can reduce retinal ganglion cell death and effectively prevent vision loss. Previously, we found that during differentiation, female rhesus monkey bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells acquire a higher neurogenic potential compared with male rhesus monkey bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. This suggests that female bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells have a stronger neuroprotective effect than male bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Here, we first isolated and cultured bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from female and male rats by density gradient centrifugation. Retinal tissue from newborn rats was prepared by enzymatic digestion to obtain primary retinal ganglion cells. Using the transwell system, retinal ganglion cells were co-cultured with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells under hypoxia. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry and caspase-3 activity assay. We found a marked increase in apoptotic rate and caspase-3 activity of retinal ganglion cells after 24 hours of hypoxia compared with normoxia. Moreover, apoptotic rate and caspase-3 activity of retinal ganglion cells significantly decreased with both female and male bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell co-culture under hypoxia compared with culture alone, with more significant effects from female bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Our results indicate that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells exert a neuroprotective effect against hypoxia-induced apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells, and also that female cells have greater neuroprotective ability compared with male cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yuan
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jian-Xiong Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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26
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Johnson TV, Oglesby EN, Steinhart MR, Cone-Kimball E, Jefferys J, Quigley HA. Time-Lapse Retinal Ganglion Cell Dendritic Field Degeneration Imaged in Organotypic Retinal Explant Culture. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2016; 57:253-64. [PMID: 26811145 PMCID: PMC4736988 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-17769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To develop an ex vivo organotypic retinal explant culture system suitable for multiple time-point imaging of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dendritic arbors over a period of 1 week, and capable of detecting dendrite neuroprotection conferred by experimental treatments. Methods Thy1-YFP mouse retinas were explanted and maintained in organotypic culture. Retinal ganglion cell dendritic arbors were imaged repeatedly using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Maximal projection z-stacks were traced by two masked investigators and dendritic fields were analyzed for characteristics including branch number, size, and complexity. One group of explants was treated with brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) added to the culture media. Changes in individual dendritic fields over time were detected using pair-wise comparison testing. Results Retinal ganglion cells in mouse retinal explant culture began to degenerate after 3 days with 52.4% surviving at 7 days. Dendritic field parameters showed minimal change over 8 hours in culture. Intra- and interobserver measurements of dendrite characteristics were strongly correlated (Spearman rank correlations consistently > 0.80). Statistically significant (P < 0.001) dendritic tree degeneration was detected following 7 days in culture including: 40% to 50% decreases in number of branch segments, number of junctions, number of terminal branches, and total branch length. Scholl analyses similarly demonstrated a significant decrease in dendritic field complexity. Treatment of explants with BDNF+CNTF significantly attenuated dendritic field degeneration. Conclusions Retinal explant culture of Thy1-YFP tissue provides a useful model for time-lapse imaging of RGC dendritic field degeneration over a course of several days, and is capable of detecting neuroprotective amelioration of dendritic pruning within individual RGCs.
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Doozandeh A, Yazdani S. Neuroprotection in Glaucoma. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2016; 11:209-20. [PMID: 27413504 PMCID: PMC4926571 DOI: 10.4103/2008-322x.183923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a degenerative optic neuropathy characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and visual field defects. It is known that in some glaucoma patients, death of RGCs continues despite intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. Neuroprotection in the field of glaucoma is defined as any treatment, independent of IOP reduction, which prevents RGC death. Glutamate antagonists, ginkgo biloba extract, neurotrophic factors, antioxidants, calcium channel blockers, brimonidine, glaucoma medications with blood regulatory effect and nitric oxide synthase inhibitors are among compounds with possible neuroprotective activity in preclinical studies. A few agents (such as brimonidine or memantine) with neuroprotective effects in experimental studies have advanced to clinical trials; however the results of clinical trials for these agents have not been conclusive. Nevertheless, lack of compelling clinical evidence has not prevented the off-label use of some of these compounds in glaucoma practice. Stem cell transplantation has been reported to halt experimental neurodegenerative disease processes in the absence of cell replacement. It has been hypothesized that transplantation of some types of stem cells activates multiple neuroprotective pathways via secretion of various factors. The advantage of this approach is a prolonged and targeted effect. Important concerns in this field include the secretion of unwanted harmful mediators, graft survival issues and tumorigenesis. Neuroprotection in glaucoma, pharmacologically or by stem cell transplantation, is an interesting subject waiting for broad and multidisciplinary collaborative studies to better clarify its role in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Doozandeh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Yazdani
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mead B, Hill LJ, Blanch RJ, Ward K, Logan A, Berry M, Leadbeater W, Scheven BA. Mesenchymal stromal cell-mediated neuroprotection and functional preservation of retinal ganglion cells in a rodent model of glaucoma. Cytotherapy 2016; 18:487-96. [PMID: 26897559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness involving loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGC). Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have shown promise as a paracrine-mediated therapy for compromised neurons. It is, however, unknown whether dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) are effective as a cellular therapy in glaucoma and how their hypothesized influence compares with other more widely researched MSC sources. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow-derived MSC (BMSC) and DPSC in preventing the loss of RGC and visual function when transplanted into the vitreous of glaucomatous rodent eyes. METHODS Thirty-five days after raised intraocular pressure (IOP) and intravitreal stem cell transplantation, Brn3a(+) RGC numbers, retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFL) and RGC function were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, optical coherence tomography and electroretinography, respectively. RESULTS Control glaucomatous eyes that were sham-treated with heat-killed DPSC had a significant loss of RGC numbers, RNFL thickness and function compared with intact eyes. BMSC and, to a greater extent, DPSC provided significant protection from RGC loss and RNFL thinning and preserved RGC function. DISCUSSION The study supports the use of DPSC as a neuroprotective cellular therapy in retinal degenerative disease such as glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Mead
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Lisa J Hill
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard J Blanch
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kelly Ward
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ann Logan
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Martin Berry
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Wendy Leadbeater
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ben A Scheven
- School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Delplace V, Payne S, Shoichet M. Delivery strategies for treatment of age-related ocular diseases: From a biological understanding to biomaterial solutions. J Control Release 2015; 219:652-668. [PMID: 26435454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.09.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Age-related ocular diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, result in life-long functional deficits and enormous global health care costs. As the worldwide population ages, vision loss has become a major concern for both economic and human health reasons. Due to recent research into biomaterials and nanotechnology major advances have been gained in the field of ocular delivery. This review provides a summary and discussion of the most recent strategies employed for the delivery of both drugs and cells to the eye to treat a variety of age-related diseases. It emphasizes the current challenges and limitations to ocular delivery and how the use of innovative materials can overcome these issues and ultimately provide treatment for age-related degeneration and regeneration of lost tissues. This review also provides critical considerations and an outlook for future studies in the field of ophthalmic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vianney Delplace
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E5, Canada; Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Samantha Payne
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E5, Canada; Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Molly Shoichet
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E5, Canada; Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada.
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Pearson C, Martin K. Stem cell approaches to glaucoma: from aqueous outflow modulation to retinal neuroprotection. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 220:241-56. [PMID: 26497794 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Long-term pharmacological management of glaucoma currently relies on self-administered drugs to regulate intraocular pressure (IOP). A number of approaches using stem cells have recently shown promise as potential future treatment strategies complementary to IOP lowering. Several sources of endogenous stem cells have been identified in the eye, some of which may be able to repair the damaged trabecular meshwork and restore functional regulation of aqueous outflow. Neural and mesenchymal stem cells secrete growth factors which provide neuroprotective effects, reducing loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in animal models. In the future, stem cells may even replace RGCs to reform functional connections between the eye and the brain, although the complexity of such a repair task is formidable. With advances in biomaterial cell scaffolds and concurrent efforts in other neural systems, stem cell therapies are becoming a realistic option for treating multiple eye diseases, and despite ongoing challenges, there are reasons for optimism that stem cells may play a role in the treatment of human glaucoma in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Pearson
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK; National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Keith Martin
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome Trust Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
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31
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Allen KF, Gaier ED, Wiggs JL. Genetics of Primary Inherited Disorders of the Optic Nerve: Clinical Applications. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2015; 5:a017277. [PMID: 26134840 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a017277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Inherited disorders of the optic nerve significantly impact vision in children and adults. The optic nerve disorders most commonly encountered clinically are glaucoma and primary optic neuropathy including Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) and autosomal dominant or Kjer's optic atrophy. Current knowledge of the genetics of optic neuropathy and glaucoma makes it possible to test for mutations in disease-causing genes allowing for presymptomatic testing and risk assessment, and recent advances have revealed important disease mechanisms that may suggest potential therapeutic targets. In this perspective, we describe the current approaches and limitations to genetic testing for these disorders and provide an update on the development of gene-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keri F Allen
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
| | - Eric D Gaier
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
| | - Janey L Wiggs
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
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Parameswaran S, Dravid SM, Teotia P, Krishnamoorthy RR, Qiu F, Toris C, Morrison J, Ahmad I. Continuous non-cell autonomous reprogramming to generate retinal ganglion cells for glaucomatous neuropathy. Stem Cells 2015; 33:1743-58. [PMID: 25753398 PMCID: PMC4524556 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma, where the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) carrying the visual signals from the retina to the visual centers in the brain are progressively lost, is the most common cause of irreversible blindness. The management approaches, whether surgical, pharmacological, or neuroprotective do not reverse the degenerative changes. The stem cell approach to replace dead RGCs is a viable option but currently faces several barriers, such as the lack of a renewable, safe, and ethical source of RGCs that are functional and could establish contacts with bona fide targets. To address these barriers, we have derived RGCs from the easily accessible adult limbal cells, reprogrammed to pluripotency by a non-nucleic acid approach, thus circumventing the risk of insertional mutagenesis. The generation of RGCs from the induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, also accomplished non-cell autonomously, recapitulated the developmental mechanism, ensuring the predictability and stability of the acquired phenotype, comparable to that of native RGCs at biochemical, molecular, and functional levels. More importantly, the induced RGCs expressed axonal guidance molecules and demonstrated the potential to establish contacts with specific targets. Furthermore, when transplanted in the rat model of ocular hypertension, these cells incorporated into the host RGC layer and expressed RGC-specific markers. Transplantation of these cells in immune-deficient mice did not produce tumors. Together, our results posit retinal progenitors generated from non-nucleic acid-derived iPS cells as a safe and robust source of RGCs for replacing dead RGCs in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Parameswaran
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | | | - Pooja Teotia
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | | | - Fang Qiu
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Carol Toris
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - John Morrison
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Iqbal Ahmad
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
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34
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Tan H, Kang X, Lu S, Liu L. The therapeutic effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells after optic nerve damage in the adult rat. Clin Interv Aging 2015; 10:487-90. [PMID: 25733825 PMCID: PMC4337419 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s75319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Optic nerve trauma is a common occurrence that results in irreversible blindness. Currently, no effective strategies are known to prevent optic nerve degeneration. We assessed the therapeutic effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) after optic nerve crush in the adult rat. Our results showed that BMSCs significantly promoted the regeneration of injured axons compared with phosphate buffered saline alone. Therefore, BMSC transplantation may be effective for the treatment of central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- HaiBo Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, RenJi Hospital, The School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Kang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Changhai Hospital Affiliated Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - ShiHeng Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, RenJi Hospital, The School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, RenJi Hospital, The School of Medicine, Shanghai JiaoTong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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35
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Caminos E, Vaquero CF, Martinez-Galan JR. Relationship between rat retinal degeneration and potassium channel KCNQ5 expression. Exp Eye Res 2014; 131:1-11. [PMID: 25499209 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2014.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Revised: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
KCNQ5/Kv7.5 is a low-threshold non-inactivating voltage-gated potassium channel preferentially targeted to excitatory endings in brain neurons. The M-type current is mediated by KCNQ5 channel subunits in monkey retinal pigment epithelium cells and in brain neurons. This study was undertaken to analyze KCNQ5 expression and the interaction signals of KCNQ5 with other proteins in normal rat retina and during photoreceptor degeneration. The KCNQ5 expression pattern was studied by immunocytochemistry and Western blot in normal rat retinas (Sprague-Dawley, SD) and P23H-1 rats as a retinitis pigmentosa model. The physical interactions of KCNQ5 with calmodulin (CaM), vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGluT1) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were analyzed by in situ proximity ligation assays and were supported by calcium recording. KCNQ5 expression was found in the plexiform layers, ganglion cell layer and basal membrane of the retinal pigment epithelium. The physical interactions among KCNQ5 and CaM, VGluT1 and GFAP changed with age and during retinal degeneration. The maximal level of KCNQ5/CaM interaction was found when photoreceptors had almost completely disappeared; the KCNQ5/VGluT1 interaction signal decreased and the KCNQ5/GFAP interaction increased in the inner retina, while degeneration progressed. The basal calcium levels in the astrocytes and neurons of P23H-1 were higher than in the control SD retinas. This study demonstrates that KCNQ5 is present in the rat retina where its activity may be moderated by CaM. Retinal degeneration progression in P23H-1 rats can be followed by an interaction between KCNQ5 with CaM in an in situ system. The relationship between KCNQ5 and VGluT1 or GFAP needs to be more cautiously interpreted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Caminos
- School of Medicine and Institute for Research in Neurological Disabilities (IDINE), University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.
| | - Cecilia F Vaquero
- School of Medicine and Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.
| | - Juan R Martinez-Galan
- School of Medicine and Institute for Research in Neurological Disabilities (IDINE), University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.
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Lerner N, Beit-Yannai E. Cross-talk between ciliary epithelium and trabecular meshwork cells in-vitro: a new insight into glaucoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112259. [PMID: 25389776 PMCID: PMC4229184 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE It is assumed that the non-pigmented ciliary epithelium plays a role in regulating intraocular pressure via its neuroendocrine activities. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the effect on a human trabecular meshwork (TM) cell line (NTM) of co-culture with a human non-pigmented ciliary epithelium cell line (ODM-2). METHODS The cellular cross-talk between ODM-2 and NTM cells was studied in a co-culture system in which the two cell types were co-cultured for 5 to 60 min or 2, 4 and 8h and then removed from the co-culture and analyzed. Analyses of the ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and of the activity of TM phosphatases and matrix metalloproteins (MMPs) were performed. Acid and alkaline phosphatase activity was determined by the DiFMUP (6, 8-difluoro-4-methylumbelliferyl phosphate) assay. MMP levels were determined by gelatin zymography. RESULTS Exposure of NTM cells to ODM-2 cells led to the activation of the MAPK signal transduction pathways in NTM cells within 5 min of co-culture. Phosphorylation of ERK1/ERK2 and p38 peaked at 10 and 15 min and then decreased over time. Interaction between ODM-2 and NTM cells promoted the expression of MMP-9 in the NTM cells after 4h of co-culture. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide support for the hypothesis that crosstalk does indeed take place between ODM-2 and NTM cells. Future studies should be designed to determine the relationship between the MMP system, MAPK kinases and phosphatases. Manipulation of these signaling molecules and the related NTM signal transduction pathways may provide targets for developing improved treatments for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Lerner
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Elie Beit-Yannai
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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37
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Mead B, Logan A, Berry M, Leadbeater W, Scheven BA. Paracrine-mediated neuroprotection and neuritogenesis of axotomised retinal ganglion cells by human dental pulp stem cells: comparison with human bone marrow and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109305. [PMID: 25290916 PMCID: PMC4188599 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We have investigated and compared the neurotrophic activity of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSC), human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSC) and human adipose-derived stem cells (hAMSC) on axotomised adult rat retinal ganglion cells (RGC) in vitro in order to evaluate their therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative conditions of RGC. Using the transwell system, RGC survival and length/number of neurites were quantified in coculture with stem cells in the presence or absence of specific Fc-receptor inhibitors to determine the role of NGF, BDNF, NT-3, VEGF, GDNF, PDGF-AA and PDGF-AB/BB in stem cell-mediated RGC neuroprotection and neuritogenesis. Conditioned media, collected from cultured hDPSC/hBMSC/hAMSC, were assayed for the secreted growth factors detailed above using ELISA. PCR array determined the hDPSC, hBMSC and hAMSC expression of genes encoding 84 growth factors and receptors. The results demonstrated that hDPSC promoted significantly more neuroprotection and neuritogenesis of axotomised RGC than either hBMSC or hAMSC, an effect that was neutralized after the addition of specific Fc-receptor inhibitors. hDPSC secreted greater levels of various growth factors including NGF, BDNF and VEGF compared with hBMSC/hAMSC. The PCR array confirmed these findings and identified VGF as a novel potentially therapeutic hDPSC-derived neurotrophic factor (NTF) with significant RGC neuroprotective properties after coculture with axotomised RGC. In conclusion, hDPSC promoted significant multi-factorial paracrine-mediated RGC survival and neurite outgrowth and may be considered a potent and advantageous cell therapy for retinal nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Mead
- Neurotrauma Research Group, Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Ann Logan
- Neurotrauma Research Group, Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Berry
- Neurotrauma Research Group, Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy Leadbeater
- Neurotrauma Research Group, Neurobiology Section, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ben A. Scheven
- School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Sugiyama T. Glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease: Their clinical similarity and future therapeutic strategies for glaucoma. World J Ophthalmol 2014; 4:47-51. [DOI: 10.5318/wjo.v4.i3.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2014] [Revised: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases characterized by optic neuropathies that are commonly associated with degeneration of the retinal ganglion cells. Although intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only proven treatable factor, several studies indicate that other factors are involved in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Since normal tension glaucoma (NTG) is the most common glaucoma at least in Japan and South Korea, development of new therapeutic strategies for glaucoma, besides reduction of IOP, is crucial. The clinical characteristics and mechanisms underlying neuronal degeneration in Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, are similar to those of glaucoma. Impaired cerebral blood flow (CBF) is common to both these diseases; therefore, improving CBF may be considered a new treatment for glaucoma, especially for NTG. In addition, targeting the formation and aggravation pathway for amyloid-β and administration of apolipoprotein E-containing lipoproteins may be potential strategies for glaucoma treatment.
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Gill KP, Hewitt AW, Davidson KC, Pébay A, Wong RCB. Methods of Retinal Ganglion Cell Differentiation From Pluripotent Stem Cells. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2014. [DOI: 10.1167/tvst.3.4.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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40
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Gill KP, Hewitt AW, Davidson KC, Pébay A, Wong RCB. Methods of Retinal Ganglion Cell Differentiation From Pluripotent Stem Cells. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2014; 3:7. [PMID: 25774327 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.3.3.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, the worldwide leading cause of irreversible blindness, is characterized by progressive degeneration of the optic nerve and loss of retinal ganglion cells. Research into glaucoma pathogenesis has been hampered by difficulties in isolating and culturing retinal ganglion cells in vitro. However, recent improvements in laboratory techniques have enabled the generation of a variety of mature cell types from pluripotent stem cells, including retinal ganglion cells. Indeed, stem cell-based approaches have the potential to revolutionize the field by providing an unlimited source of cells for replacement therapies and by enabling development of in vitro disease models for drug screening and research. Consequently, research aimed at directing pluripotent stem cells to differentiate into retinal ganglion cells has expanded dramatically during the past decade, resulting in significant advances in technique and efficiency. In this paper, we review the methodology for retinal ganglion cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells of both mouse and human origin and summarize how these techniques have opened up new avenues for modelling glaucoma. Generation of stem cell-derived retinal ganglion cells will have significant translational values, providing an in vitro platform to study the mechanisms responsible for pathogenesis and for drug screening to improve treatment options, as well as for the development of cell therapies for optic neuropathies such as glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine P Gill
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne East, VIC, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne East, VIC, Australia
| | - Kathryn C Davidson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne East, VIC, Australia ; Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital Melbourne East, VIC, Australia
| | - Alice Pébay
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne East, VIC, Australia ; Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital Melbourne East, VIC, Australia
| | - Raymond C B Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne East, VIC, Australia ; Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital Melbourne East, VIC, Australia
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Jiang Y, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Wang M, Zhang X, Li X. Therapeutic effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on laser-induced retinal injury in mice. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:9372-85. [PMID: 24871366 PMCID: PMC4100100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms15069372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy has shown encouraging results for neurodegenerative diseases. The retina provides a convenient locus to investigate stem cell functions and distribution in the nervous system. In the current study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) by systemic transplantation in a laser-induced retinal injury model. MSCs from C57BL/6 mice labeled with green fluorescent protein (GFP) were injected via the tail vein into mice after laser photocoagulation. We found that the average diameters of laser spots and retinal cell apoptosis were decreased in the MSC-treated group. Interestingly, GFP-MSCs did not migrate to the injured retina. Further examination revealed that the mRNA expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein and matrix metalloproteinase-2 were lower in the injured eyes after MSC transplantation. Our results suggest that intravenously injected MSCs have the ability to inhibit retinal cell apoptosis, reduce the inflammatory response and limit the spreading of damage in the laser-injured retina of mice. Systemic MSC therapy might play a role in neuroprotection, mainly by regulation of the intraocular microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfeng Jiang
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Eye Institute, No. 251, Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Eye Institute, No. 251, Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Lingjun Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Eye Institute, No. 251, Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Meiyan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Haibin People's Hospital of Tianjin, No. 400, Chuangye Road, Binhai New District, Tianjin 300280, China.
| | - Xiaomin Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Eye Institute, No. 251, Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Xiaorong Li
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Eye Institute, No. 251, Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China.
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Hu Y, Tan HB, Wang XM, Rong H, Cui HP, Cui H. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells protect against retinal ganglion cell loss in aged rats with glaucoma. Clin Interv Aging 2013; 8:1467-70. [PMID: 24204132 PMCID: PMC3817004 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s47350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common eye disease in the aged population and has severe consequences. The present study examined the therapeutic effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation in preventing loss of visual function in aged rats with glaucoma caused by laser-induced ocular hypertension. We found that BMSCs promoted survival of retinal ganglion cells in the transplanted eye as compared with the control eye. Further, in swimming tests guided by visual cues, the rats with a BMSC transplant performed significantly better. We believe that BMSC transplantation therapy is effective in treating aged rats with glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Hu
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China ; Departments of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin, People's Republic of China
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Johnson TV, DeKorver NW, Levasseur VA, Osborne A, Tassoni A, Lorber B, Heller JP, Villasmil R, Bull ND, Martin KR, Tomarev SI. Identification of retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection conferred by platelet-derived growth factor through analysis of the mesenchymal stem cell secretome. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 137:503-19. [PMID: 24176979 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awt292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of neuroprotective strategies to attenuate retinal ganglion cell death could lead to novel therapies for chronic optic neuropathies such as glaucoma. Intravitreal transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells slows retinal ganglion cell death in models of optic nerve injury, but the mechanism of action remains unclear. Here we characterized the neuroprotective effects of mesenchymal stem cells and mesenchymal stem cell-derived factors in organotypic retinal explant culture and an in vivo model of ocular hypertensive glaucoma. Co-culture of rat and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells with retinal explants increased retinal ganglion cell survival, after 7 days ex vivo, by ∼2-fold and was associated with reduced apoptosis and increased nerve fibre layer and inner plexiform layer thicknesses. These effects were not demonstrated by co-culture with human or mouse fibroblasts. Conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells conferred neuroprotection, suggesting that the neuroprotection is mediated, at least partly, by secreted factors. We compared the concentrations of 29 factors in human mesenchymal stem cell and fibroblast conditioned media, and identified 11 enriched in the mesenchymal stem cell secretome. Treatment of retinal explants with a cocktail of these factors conferred retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection, with factors from the platelet-derived growth factor family being the most potent. Blockade of platelet-derived growth factor signalling with neutralizing antibody or with small molecule inhibitors of platelet-derived growth factor receptor kinase or downstream phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase eliminated retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection conferred by mesenchymal stem cell co-culture. Intravitreal injection of platelet-derived growth factor -AA or -AB led to profound optic nerve neuroprotection in vivo following experimental induction of elevated intraocular pressure. These data demonstrate that mesenchymal stem cells secrete a number of neuroprotective proteins and suggest that platelet-derived growth factor secretion in particular may play an important role in mesenchymal stem cell-mediated retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection. Furthermore, platelet-derived growth factor may represent an independent target for achieving retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas V Johnson
- 1 Section of Retinal Ganglion Cell Biology, Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, USA
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Yang F, Wu L, Guo X, Wang D, Li Y. Improved retinal ganglion cell survival through retinal microglia suppression by a chinese herb extract, triptolide, in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2013; 21:378-89. [PMID: 23876132 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2013.806989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the changes in retinal microglia and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival after long-term administration of a Chinese herb extract, triptolide, in a DBA/2J mice. DBA/2J mice (n = 96) were administered triptolide (n = 48) 25 µg/kg or vehicle (n = 48) and were judged at 7, 9, 11 months of age. Long-term triptolide treatment tended to attenuate the anterior segment pathology in experimental group, though intraocular pressure was not significantly different between the two groups. In the experimental group, RGC survival was improved (7, 9, 11 months: p = 0.035, 0.004, 0.014), and microglia activation was suppressed based on a more ramified appearance (9, 11 months: p = 0.024, 0.013) and a lower total microglial cell count (7, 9, 11 months: p = 0.028, 0.025, 0.014). Double-immunofluorescence staining revealed TNF? localized to microglia, TNFR1 localized to the RGCs and nerve fiber layer. These findings indicate that long-term triptolide administration suppressed microglia activation and improved RGC survival in DBA/2J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Peking university third hospital , Beijing , China
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