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Di Pietro C, Haberman AM, Lindenbach BD, Smith PC, Bruscia EM, Allore HG, Vander Wyk B, Tyagi A, Zeiss CJ. Prior Influenza Infection Mitigates SARS-CoV-2 Disease in Syrian Hamsters. Viruses 2024; 16:246. [PMID: 38400021 PMCID: PMC10891789 DOI: 10.3390/v16020246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Seasonal infection rates of individual viruses are influenced by synergistic or inhibitory interactions between coincident viruses. Endemic patterns of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza infection overlap seasonally in the Northern hemisphere and may be similarly influenced. We explored the immunopathologic basis of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A (H1N1pdm09) interactions in Syrian hamsters. H1N1 given 48 h prior to SARS-CoV-2 profoundly mitigated weight loss and lung pathology compared to SARS-CoV-2 infection alone. This was accompanied by the normalization of granulocyte dynamics and accelerated antigen-presenting populations in bronchoalveolar lavage and blood. Using nasal transcriptomics, we identified a rapid upregulation of innate and antiviral pathways induced by H1N1 by the time of SARS-CoV-2 inoculation in 48 h dual-infected animals. The animals that were infected with both viruses also showed a notable and temporary downregulation of mitochondrial and viral replication pathways. Quantitative RT-PCR confirmed a decrease in the SARS-CoV-2 viral load and lower cytokine levels in the lungs of animals infected with both viruses throughout the course of the disease. Our data confirm that H1N1 infection induces rapid and transient gene expression that is associated with the mitigation of SARS-CoV-2 pulmonary disease. These protective responses are likely to begin in the upper respiratory tract shortly after infection. On a population level, interaction between these two viruses may influence their relative seasonal infection rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Di Pietro
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (C.D.P.); (E.M.B.)
| | - Ann M. Haberman
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
| | - Brett D. Lindenbach
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
| | - Peter C. Smith
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
| | - Emanuela M. Bruscia
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (C.D.P.); (E.M.B.)
| | - Heather G. Allore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (H.G.A.); (B.V.W.)
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Brent Vander Wyk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA; (H.G.A.); (B.V.W.)
| | - Antariksh Tyagi
- Department of Genetics, Yale Center for Genome Analysis, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
| | - Caroline J. Zeiss
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
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Murro V, Mucciolo DP, Giorgio D, Sodi A, Passerini I, Virgili G, Rizzo S. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A) in young choroideremia (CHM) patients. Ophthalmic Genet 2019; 40:201-206. [DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2019.1611880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Murro
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Dario Pasquale Mucciolo
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Dario Giorgio
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Sodi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Passerini
- Department of Genetic Diagnosis, Careggi Teaching Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianni Virgili
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stanislao Rizzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Chan HHL, Lam HI, Choi KY, Li SZC, Lakshmanan Y, Yu WY, Chang RCC, Lai JSM, So KF. Delay of cone degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa using a 12-month treatment with Lycium barbarum supplement. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 236:336-344. [PMID: 30877066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Lycium barbarum L. (also known as "Goji berry"), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has been a common herb in the traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia for centuries. The main active component is the Lycium barbarum polysaccharides and its antioxidative effect has been widely shown to provide neuroprotection to the eye, and it would, therefore, be interesting to determine if Lycium barbarum help delay vision deterioration in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. AIM OF THE STUDY Cone rescue is a potential method for delaying deterioration of visual function in Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). This study aimed to investigate the treatment effect of Lycium barbarum L. (LB) supplement on retinal functions and structure in RP patients after a 12-month intervention trial. METHODS The investigation was a double-masked and placebo-controlled clinical study. Each of forty-two RP subjects who completed the 12-month intervention (23 and 19 in the treatment and placebo groups respectively) received a daily supply of LB or placebo granules for oral administration. The primary outcome was change of best corrected visual acuity (VA) (90% and 10% contrast) from the baseline to the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes were sensitivity changes of the central visual field, amplitude of full-field electroretinogram (ffERG) (including scotopic maximal response and photopic cone response), and average macular thickness. RESULTS The compliance rates for both groups exceeded 80%. There were no deteriorations of either 90% or 10% contrast VA in the LB group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.001). A thinning of macular layer was observed in the placebo group, which was not observed in the LB group (p = 0.008). However, no significant differences were found in the sensitivity of visual field or in any parameters of ffERG between the two groups. No significant adverse effects were reported in the treatment group. CONCLUSIONS LB supplement provides a neuroprotective effect for the retina and could help delay or minimize cone degeneration in RP. CLASSIFICATIONS Clinical Studies (1.05). TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02244996.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Ho-Lung Chan
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Hang-I Lam
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kai-Yip Choi
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Serena Zhe-Chuang Li
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yamunadevi Lakshmanan
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing-Yan Yu
- Laboratory of Experimental Optometry (Neuroscience), School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Raymond Chuen-Chung Chang
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jimmy Shiu-Ming Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau (GHM) Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Delplace V, Ortin-Martinez A, Tsai ELS, Amin AN, Wallace V, Shoichet MS. Controlled release strategy designed for intravitreal protein delivery to the retina. J Control Release 2019; 293:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Querques G, Rosenfeld PJ, Cavallero E, Borrelli E, Corvi F, Querques L, Bandello FM, Zarbin MA. Treatment of Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmic Res 2014; 52:107-15. [DOI: 10.1159/000363187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Sadigh S, Luo X, Cideciyan AV, Sumaroka A, Boxley SL, Hall LM, Sheplock R, Feuer WJ, Stambolian DS, Jacobson SG. Drusen and photoreceptor abnormalities in African-Americans with intermediate non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Curr Eye Res 2014; 40:398-406. [PMID: 24912073 DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2014.925934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/AIM To investigate the relationship of drusen and photoreceptor abnormalities in African-American (AA) patients with intermediate non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). MATERIALS AND METHODS AA patients with intermediate AMD (n = 11; age 52-77 years) were studied with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Macular location and characteristics of large drusen (≥125 µm) were determined. Thickness of photoreceptor laminae was quantified overlying drusen and in other macular regions. A patient with advanced AMD (age 87) was included to illustrate the disease spectrum. RESULTS In this AA patient cohort, the spectrum of changes known to occur in AMD, including large drusen, sub-retinal drusenoid deposits and geographic atrophy, were identified. In intermediate AMD eyes (n = 17), there were 183 large drusen, the majority of which were pericentral in location. Overlying the drusen there was significant thinning of the photoreceptor outer nuclear layer (termed ONL(+)) as well as the inner and outer segments (IS + OS). The reductions in IS + OS thickness were directly related to ONL(+) thickness. In a fraction (∼8%) of paradrusen locations with normal lamination sampled within ∼280 µm of peak drusen height, ONL(+) was significantly thickened compared to age and retinal-location-matched normal values. Topographical maps of the macula confirmed ONL thickening in regions neighboring and distant to large drusen. CONCLUSIONS We confirm there is a pericentral distribution of drusen across AA-AMD maculae rather than the central localization in Caucasian AMD. Reductions in the photoreceptor laminae overlying drusen are evident. ONL(+) thickening in some macular areas of AA-AMD eyes may be an early phenotypic marker for photoreceptor stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Sadigh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, PA , USA
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Trophic factors in the pathogenesis and therapy for retinal degenerative diseases. Surv Ophthalmol 2014; 59:134-65. [PMID: 24417953 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2013.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Trophic factors are endogenously secreted proteins that act in an autocrine and/or paracrine fashion to affect vital cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and regeneration, thereby maintaining overall cell homeostasis. In the eye, the major contributors of these molecules are the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and Müller cells. The primary paracrine targets of these secreted proteins include the photoreceptors and choriocapillaris. Retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are characterized by aberrant function and/or eventual death of RPE cells, photoreceptors, choriocapillaris, and other retinal cells. We discuss results of in vitro and in vivo animal studies in which candidate trophic factors, either singly or in combination, were used in an attempt to ameliorate photoreceptor and/or retinal degeneration. We also examine current trophic factor therapies as they relate to the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases in clinical studies.
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Birch DG, Weleber RG, Duncan JL, Jaffe GJ, Tao W. Randomized trial of ciliary neurotrophic factor delivered by encapsulated cell intraocular implants for retinitis pigmentosa. Am J Ophthalmol 2013; 156:283-292.e1. [PMID: 23668681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2013.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the safety and effect on visual function of ciliary neurotrophic factor delivered via an intraocular encapsulated cell implant for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). DESIGN Ciliary neurotrophic factor for late-stage retinitis pigmentosa study 3 (CNTF3; n = 65) and ciliary neurotrophic factor for early-stage retinitis pigmentosa study 4 (CNTF4; n = 68) were multicenter, sham-controlled dose-ranging studies. METHODS Patients were randomly assigned to receive a high- or low-dose implant in 1 eye and sham surgery in the fellow eye. The primary endpoints were change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 12 months for CNTF3 and change in visual field sensitivity at 12 months for CNTF4. Patients had the choice of retaining or removing the implant at 12 months for CNTF3 and 24 months for CNTF4. RESULTS There were no serious adverse events related to either the encapsulated cell implant or the surgical procedure. In CNTF3, there was no change in acuity in either ciliary neurotrophic factor- or sham-treated eyes at 1 year. In CNTF4, eyes treated with the high-dose implant showed a significant decrease in sensitivity while no change was seen in sham- and low dose-treated eyes at 12 months. The decrease in sensitivity was reversible upon implant removal. In both studies, ciliary neurotrophic factor treatment resulted in a dose-dependent increase in retinal thickness. CONCLUSIONS Long-term intraocular delivery of ciliary neurotrophic factor is achieved by the encapsulated cell implant. Neither study showed therapeutic benefit in the primary outcome variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Birch
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, TX 75231, USA.
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Peng C, Yin X, Li M, He T, Li G. Construction of a eukaryotic expression plasmid for human retina-derived neurotrophin-3. Neural Regen Res 2013; 8:1031-40. [PMID: 25206397 PMCID: PMC4145883 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) can promote the repair of central nervous system and retinal damage. In previous reports, NT-3 has been expressed by viral vectors. However, plasmid vectors have a safer profile compared with viral vectors in clinical studies. This study recombined amplified human retinal NT-3 with a eukaryotic expression plasmid containing green fluorescent protein (GFP) to construct an NT-3 expression plasmid, pEGFP-N1-NT-3. The transfection efficiency 48 hours after pEGFP-N1-NT-3 transfection to 293T cells was 50.06 ± 2.78%. Abundant NT-3-GFP was expressed in 293T cells as observed by fluorescence microscopy, suggesting the construct pEGFP-N1-NT-3 effectively expressed and secreted NT-3-GFP. Secretory vesicles containing NT-3-GFP were observed in a constant location in cells by laser scan confocal microscopy, indicating the expression and secretion processes of NT-3 in eukaryotic cells were in accordance with the physical synthesis processes of secreted proteins. Western blot assay showed that pro-NT-3-GFP had a molecular weight of 56 kDa, further confirming NT-3-GFP expression. At 48 hours after transfection, the concentration of NT-3 in culture medium was 22.3 ng/mL, suggesting NT-3 produced by pEGFP-N1-NT-3 was efficiently secreted. This study constructed a human retinal-derived NT-3 eukaryotic expression plasmid that efficiently expressed and secreted NT-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Peng
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiaobei Yin
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Mengda Li
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ting He
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Genlin Li
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
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Wen R, Tao W, Li Y, Sieving PA. CNTF and retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2011; 31:136-51. [PMID: 22182585 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2011.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2011] [Revised: 10/29/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is one of the most studied neurotrophic factors for neuroprotection of the retina. A large body of evidence demonstrates that CNTF promotes rod photoreceptor survival in almost all animal models. Recent studies indicate that CNTF also promotes cone photoreceptor survival and cone outer segment regeneration in the degenerating retina and improves cone function in dogs with congenital achromotopsia. In addition, CNTF is a neuroprotective factor and an axogenesis factor for retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). This review focuses on the effects of exogenous CNTF on photoreceptors and RGCs in the mammalian retina and the potential clinical application of CNTF for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wen
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Jones BW, Kondo M, Terasaki H, Watt CB, Rapp K, Anderson J, Lin Y, Shaw MV, Yang JH, Marc RE. Retinal remodeling in the Tg P347L rabbit, a large-eye model of retinal degeneration. J Comp Neurol 2011; 519:2713-33. [PMID: 21681749 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited blinding disease characterized by progressive loss of retinal photoreceptors. There are numerous rodent models of retinal degeneration, but most are poor platforms for interventions that will translate into clinical practice. The rabbit possesses a number of desirable qualities for a model of retinal disease including a large eye and an existing and substantial knowledge base in retinal circuitry, anatomy, and ophthalmology. We have analyzed degeneration, remodeling, and reprogramming in a rabbit model of retinal degeneration, expressing a rhodopsin proline 347 to leucine transgene in a TgP347L rabbit as a powerful model to study the pathophysiology and treatment of retinal degeneration. We show that disease progression in the TgP347L rabbit closely tracks human cone-sparing RP, including the cone-associated preservation of bipolar cell signaling and triggering of reprogramming. The relatively fast disease progression makes the TgP347L rabbit an excellent model for gene therapy, cell biological intervention, progenitor cell transplantation, surgical interventions, and bionic prosthetic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- B W Jones
- Department of Ophthalmology, Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA.
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Truong A, Wong TY, Khachigian LM. Emerging therapeutic approaches in the management of retinal angiogenesis and edema. J Mol Med (Berl) 2010; 89:343-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s00109-010-0709-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2010] [Revised: 10/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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El Sanharawi M, Kowalczuk L, Touchard E, Omri S, de Kozak Y, Behar-Cohen F. Protein delivery for retinal diseases: from basic considerations to clinical applications. Prog Retin Eye Res 2010; 29:443-65. [PMID: 20398784 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2010.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Because the eye is protected by ocular barriers but is also easily accessible, direct intravitreous injections of therapeutic proteins allow for specific and targeted treatment of retinal diseases. Low doses of proteins are required in this confined environment and a long time of residency in the vitreous is expected, making the eye the ideal organ for local proteic therapies. Monthly intravitreous injection of Ranibizumab, an anti-VEGF Fab has become the standard of care for patients presenting wet AMD. It has brought the proof of concept that administering proteins into the physiologically low proteic concentration vitreous can be performed safely. Other antibodies, Fab, peptides and growth factors have been shown to exert beneficial effects on animal models when administered within the therapeutic and safe window. To extend the use of such biomolecules in the ophthalmology practice, optimization of treatment regimens and efficacy is required. Basic knowledge remains to be increased on how different proteins/peptides penetrate into the eye and the ocular tissues, distribute in the vitreous, penetrate into the retinal layers and/or cells, are eliminated from the eye or metabolized. This should serve as a basis for designing novel drug delivery systems. The later should be non-or minimally invasive and should allow for a controlled, scalable and sustained release of the therapeutic proteins in the ocular media. This paper reviews the actual knowledge regarding protein delivery for eye diseases and describes novel non-viral gene therapy technologies particularly adapted for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- M El Sanharawi
- Inserm, UMRS 872, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
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Exogenous modulation of intrinsic optic nerve neuroprotective activity. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2010; 248:1105-16. [PMID: 20229104 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-010-1336-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2009] [Revised: 02/06/2010] [Accepted: 02/14/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To characterize the molecular and functional status of the rat retina and optic nerve after acute elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS Retinal ischemia was induced in rats by increasing the IOP (110 mmHg/60 minutes). Microarray analysis, quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to characterize retinal tissue. PLGA microspheres containing neurotrophic factors (BDNF, GDNF, or CNTF) or empty microspheres were injected into the vitreous of operated animals 1 day after elevation of IOP. Pupil light reflex (PLR) parameters and electroretinograms (ERG) were monitored at multiple time points during the 60-day postoperative recovery period. RESULTS Molecular analysis showed a significant intrinsic up-regulation of CNTF at 10 and 25 days after induction of the acute ocular hypertension (p = 0.0067). Molecular tissue analysis of GDNF and its receptors (GDNFR1, GDNFR2), and BDNF and its receptor (trkB) showed no change in expression. Animals that received CNTF microspheres had no significant functional recovery compared to animals which received blank microspheres (p > 0.05). Animals that received GDNF or BDNF microspheres showed significant PLR recovery (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 respectively) compared to non-treated animals. CONCLUSIONS Continuous release of neurotrophic growth factors (NGFs) significantly protects optic nerve function in the experimental model of retinal ischemia observed by PLR analysis.
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Beltran WA, Allore HG, Johnson E, Towle V, Tao W, Acland GM, Aguirre GD, Zeiss CJ. CREB1/ATF1 activation in photoreceptor degeneration and protection. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2009; 50:5355-63. [PMID: 19643965 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-3741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The cAMP response element binding protein 1 (CREB1) and activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) are closely related members of the bZIP superfamily of transcription factors. Both are activated in response to a wide array of stimuli, including cellular stress. This study was conducted to assess the CREB1/ATF1 pathway in photoreceptor disease and protection. METHODS The expression levels of p-CREB1, CREB1, and ATF1 were examined by immunoblot and immunohistochemistry in normal canine retina and retinas of several canine models of retinal degeneration (rcd1, rcd2, erd, prcd, XLPRA1, XLPRA2, T4R RHO). Humans retinas affected with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were also examined. p-CREB1/ATF1 immunolabeling was assessed in normal and rcd1 dogs treated with ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), to examine the effect of a neuroprotective stimulus on activation of CREB1/ATF1. RESULTS Native CREB1 and ATF1 as well as phosphorylated CREB1/ATF1 was examined in normal canine retina by immunoblot. The p-CREB1 antibody identified phosphorylated CREB1 and ATF1 and labeled the inner retina only in normal dogs. In degenerate canine and human retinas, strong immunolabeling appeared in rod and cone photoreceptors, indicating increased expression of native CREB1 and ATF1, as well as increased phosphorylation of these proteins. Retinal protection by CNTF in rcd1 dogs was accompanied by a significant increase in the number of p-CREB1/ATF1-labeled photoreceptor nuclei. CONCLUSIONS Positive association of CREB1/ATF1 phosphorylation with photoreceptor protection suggests that it may contribute to an innate protective response. These data identify a signaling mechanism in rods and cones of potential importance for therapies of RP and AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- William A Beltran
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Beltran WA. The use of canine models of inherited retinal degeneration to test novel therapeutic approaches. Vet Ophthalmol 2009; 12:192-204. [PMID: 19392879 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-5224.2009.00694.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (RDs) are a common cause of blindness in dogs and in humans. Over the past two decades numerous genes causally associated with these diseases have been identified and several canine models have been used to improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of RDs, as well as to test the proof of principle and safety of novel therapies. This review briefly summarizes the drug delivery approaches and therapeutic strategies that have been and are currently tested in dogs, with a particular emphasis on corrective gene therapy, and retinal neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- William A Beltran
- Section of Ophthalmology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Emerich DF, Vasconcellos A. Cellular transplants, 20 years later: the pharma initiative. Regen Med 2009; 4:485-7. [PMID: 19580397 DOI: 10.2217/rme.09.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Abstract
Over the last decade there have been major advances in our understanding of the molecular pathology of inherited retinal dystrophies. This paper reviews recent advances in the identification of genetic mutations underlying infantile-onset inherited retinal disorders and considers how this knowledge may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Moradi
- Institute of Ophthalmology UCL, London, UK
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Kent TL, Glybina IV, Abrams GW, Iezzi R. Chronic intravitreous infusion of ciliary neurotrophic factor modulates electrical retinal stimulation thresholds in the RCS rat. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2008; 49:372-9. [PMID: 18172115 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.07-0952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether the sustained intravitreous delivery of CNTF modulates cortical response thresholds to electrical retinal stimulation in the RCS rat model of retinal degeneration. METHODS Animals were assigned to four groups: untreated, nonsurgical control and infusion groups of 10 ng/d CNTF, 1 ng/d CNTF, and PBS vehicle control. Thresholds for electrically evoked cortical potentials (EECPs) were recorded in response to transcorneal electrical stimulation of the retina at p30 and again at p60, after a three-week infusion. RESULTS As the retina degenerated over time, EECP thresholds in response to electrical retinal stimulation increased. Eyes treated with 10 ng/d CNTF demonstrated significantly greater retinal sensitivity to electrical stimulation when compared with all other groups. In addition, eyes treated with 1 ng/d CNTF demonstrated significantly greater retinal sensitivity than both PBS-treated and untreated control groups. CONCLUSIONS Retinal sensitivity to electrical stimulation was preserved in animals treated with chronic intravitreous infusion of CNTF. These data suggest that CNTF-mediated retinal neuroprotection may be a novel therapy that can lower stimulus thresholds in patients about to undergo retinal prosthesis implantation. Furthermore, it may maintain the long-term efficacy of these devices in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany L Kent
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kresge Eye Institute, Ligon Research Center of Vision, Wayne State University, 4717 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 47201, USA
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Beltran WA. On the role of CNTF as a potential therapy for retinal degeneration: Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde? ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2008; 613:45-51. [PMID: 18188927 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-74904-4_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- William A Beltran
- Section of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Cideciyan AV, Aleman TS, Jacobson SG, Khanna H, Sumaroka A, Aguirre GK, Schwartz SB, Windsor EAM, He S, Chang B, Stone EM, Swaroop A. Centrosomal-ciliary gene CEP290/NPHP6 mutations result in blindness with unexpected sparing of photoreceptors and visual brain: implications for therapy of Leber congenital amaurosis. Hum Mutat 2007; 28:1074-83. [PMID: 17554762 DOI: 10.1002/humu.20565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the centrosomal-ciliary gene CEP290/NPHP6 are associated with Joubert syndrome and are the most common cause of the childhood recessive blindness known as Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). An in-frame deletion in Cep290 shows rapid degeneration in the rod-rich mouse retina. To explore the mechanisms of the human retinal disease, we studied CEP290-LCA in patients of different ages (7-48 years) and compared results to Cep290-mutant mice. Unexpectedly, blind CEP290-mutant human retinas retained photoreceptor and inner laminar architecture in the cone-rich central retina, independent of severity of visual loss. Surrounding the cone-rich island was photoreceptor loss and distorted retina, suggesting neural-glial remodeling. The mutant mouse retina at 4-6 weeks of age showed similar features of retinal remodeling, with altered neural and synaptic laminae and Muller glial activation. The visual brain pathways in CEP290-LCA were anatomically intact. Our findings of preserved foveal cones and visual brain anatomy in LCA with CEP290 mutations, despite severe blindness and rapid rod cell death, suggest an opportunity for visual restoration of central vision in this common form of inherited blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur V Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
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Jacobson SG, Sumaroka A, Aleman TS, Cideciyan AV, Danciger M, Farber DB. Evidence for retinal remodelling in retinitis pigmentosa caused by PDE6B mutation. Br J Ophthalmol 2007; 91:699-701. [PMID: 17446517 PMCID: PMC1954744 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.104463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Rhee KD, Ruiz A, Duncan JL, Hauswirth WW, LaVail MM, Bok D, Yang XJ. Molecular and cellular alterations induced by sustained expression of ciliary neurotrophic factor in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2007; 48:1389-400. [PMID: 17325188 PMCID: PMC7147570 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.06-0677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize molecular and cellular changes induced by sustained expression of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) in the rds mutant mouse retina. METHODS Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) expressing CNTF was injected subretinally, for transduction of peripherin/rds(+/)(-) transgenic mice that carry the P216L mutation found in human retinitis pigmentosa. Characterization of retinal neurons and glia was performed by immunocytochemistry with cell-type-specific markers. Activation of signaling molecules was examined by Western blot and immunostaining. Alterations of gene transcription profiles were studied by microarray analyses. RESULTS CNTF viral transduction maintained rhodopsin expression in surviving rod photoreceptors, but greatly reduced both S- and M-opsin normally expressed in cones. In addition, CNTF treatment resulted in increased numbers and dispersion of Müller glia and Chx10-positive bipolar cells within the inner nuclear layer. Persistent CNTF signaling also caused enhanced phosphorylation of STAT1, STAT3, and p42/44 ERK, as well as their levels of expression. Moreover, altered transcription profiles were detected for a large number of genes. Among these, Crx and Nrl involved in photoreceptor differentiation and several genes involved in phototransduction were suppressed. CONCLUSIONS Despite the rescue from cell death, continuous exposure to CNTF changed photoreceptor cell profiles, especially resulting in the loss of cone immunoreactivity. In addition, the Müller glia and bipolar cells became disorganized, and the number of cells expressing Müller and bipolar cell markers increased. Constitutive CNTF production resulted in sustained activation of cytokine signal transduction and altered the expression of a large number of genes. Therefore, stringent regulation of CNTF may be necessary for its therapeutic application in preventing retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Do Rhee
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Alberto Ruiz
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jacque L. Duncan
- Beckman Vision Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - William W. Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
- Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Matthew M. LaVail
- Beckman Vision Center, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Dean Bok
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Each of the following is a corresponding author: Xian-Jie Yang, Jules Stein Eye Institute, 100 Stein Plaza, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095; , Dean Bok, Jules Stein Eye Institute, 100 Stein Plaza, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095;
| | - Xian-Jie Yang
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Each of the following is a corresponding author: Xian-Jie Yang, Jules Stein Eye Institute, 100 Stein Plaza, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095; , Dean Bok, Jules Stein Eye Institute, 100 Stein Plaza, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095;
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Beltran WA, Wen R, Acland GM, Aguirre GD. Intravitreal injection of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) causes peripheral remodeling and does not prevent photoreceptor loss in canine RPGR mutant retina. Exp Eye Res 2007; 84:753-71. [PMID: 17320077 PMCID: PMC2709826 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2006.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2006] [Revised: 11/20/2006] [Accepted: 12/13/2006] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) rescues photoreceptors in several animal models of retinal degeneration and is currently being evaluated as a potential treatment for retinitis pigmentosa in humans. This study was conducted to test whether CNTF prevents photoreceptor cell loss in XLPRA2, an early onset canine model of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa caused by a frameshift mutation in RPGR exon ORF15. Four different treatment regimens of CNTF were tested in XLPRA2 dogs. Under anesthesia, the animals received at different ages an intravitreal injection of 12 microg of CNTF in the left eye. The right eye served as a control and was injected with a similar volume of phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Ocular examinations were performed regularly during the treatment periods. At termination, the dogs were euthanatized, eyes collected and the retinas were processed for embedding in optimal cutting temperature (OCT) medium. The outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness was evaluated on H&E sections and values in both CNTF- and PBS-treated eyes were compared. Morphologic alterations in the peripheral retina were characterized by immunohistochemistry using cell-specific markers. Cell proliferation in the retinas was examined on semi-thin plastic sections, and by BrdU pulse-labeling and Ki67 immunohistochemistry on cryosections. All CNTF-treated eyes showed early clinical signs of corneal epitheliopathy, subcapsular cataracts and uveitis. No statistically significant difference in ONL thickness was seen between the CNTF- and PBS-injected eyes. Prominent retinal remodeling that consisted in an abnormal increase in the number of rods, and in misplacement of some rods, cones, bipolar and Müller cells, was observed in the peripheral retina of CNTF-treated eyes. This was only seen when CNTF was in injected before the age at which the canine retina reaches full maturation. In XLPRA2 dogs, intravitreal injections of CNTF failed to prevent photoreceptors from undergoing cell death in the central and mid-peripheral retina. CNTF also caused ocular side-effects and morphologic alterations in the periphery that were consistent with cell dedifferentiation and proliferation. Our findings suggest that some inherited forms of retinal degeneration may not respond to CNTF's neuroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- William A Beltran
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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