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Hu W, Luo Y. Chinese English language learners' vocabulary retention: Investigating the effectiveness of neuro/metacognitive and socio-cultural strategies. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:113. [PMID: 38429769 PMCID: PMC10908038 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01612-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acquisition of a rich vocabulary is foundational to language proficiency. In the pedagogical pursuit of effective vocabulary teaching, educators explore diverse methodologies. Researchers investigated the impact of different neurocognitive, metacognitive, and socio-cultural strategies on enhancing vocabulary learning, particularly among Chinese English Language Learners. OBJECTIVES The study aims to determine the effectiveness of techniques derived from these theories compared to traditional teaching methods in enhancing vocabulary recall and recognition among English language learners. METHODOLOGY A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was employed for the experimental and control groups, comprising 90 Chinese EFL learners selected from educational institutions in 2022-2023. The experimental group (n = 45) received instruction involving visual imagery, multisensory rotation, circle rotation, and mind mapping over eight sessions, while the control group (n = 45) received traditional teaching methods. FINDINGS Statistical analysis, utilizing covariance and analysis of variance with SPSS software version 22, revealed significant improvements in recall and vocabulary recognition within and between the experimental and control groups. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that incorporating techniques based on Neuro-Cognitive, Multimedia, Socio-Cultural, and Metacognitive theories positively influences vocabulary recall and recognition. This suggests the efficacy of these innovative methods in enhancing English language learning, highlighting their potential for broader integration into EFL instruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hu
- School of Foreign Language, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199, Yongzhou, Hunan, China.
| | - Yipeng Luo
- School of Information Science and Engineering, Hunan Women& apos; University, 410004, Changsha, Hunan, China
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2
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You W, Knoops K, Boesten I, Berendschot TTJM, van Zandvoort MAMJ, Benedikter BJ, Webers CAB, Reutelingsperger CPM, Gorgels TGMF. A time window for rescuing dying retinal ganglion cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:88. [PMID: 38297331 PMCID: PMC10832163 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01427-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration and death cause vision loss in patients with glaucoma. Regulated cell death, once initiated, is generally considered to be an irreversible process. Recently, we showed that, by timely removing the cell death stimulus, stressed neuronal PC12 cells can recover from phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, nuclear shrinkage, DNA damage, mitochondrial fragmentation, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, and retraction of neurites, all hallmarks of an activated cell death program. Whether the cell death process can be reversed in neurons of the central nervous system, like RGCs, is still unknown. Here, we studied reversibility of the activated cell death program in primary rat RGCs (prRGCs). METHODS prRGCs were exposed to ethanol (5%, vol/vol) to induce cell death. At different stages of the cell death process, ethanol was removed by washing and injured prRGCs were further cultured in fresh medium to see whether they recovered. The dynamics of single cells were monitored by high-resolution live-cell spinning disk microscopy. PS exposure, mitochondrial structure, membrane potential, and intracellular Ca2+ were revealed by annexin A5-FITC, Mito-tracker, TMRM, and Fluo 8-AM staining, respectively. The distribution of cytochrome c was investigated by immunofluorescence. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was studied by electron microscopy. RESULTS Analysis of temporal relationships between mitochondrial changes and PS exposure showed that fragmentation of the mitochondrial network and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential occurred before PS exposure. Mitochondrial changes proceeded caspase-independently, while PS exposure was caspase dependent. Interestingly, prRGCs recovered quickly from these mitochondrial changes but not from PS exposure at the plasma membrane. Correlative light and electron microscopy showed that stress-induced decrease in mitochondrial area, length and cristae number was reversible. Intracellular Ca2+ was elevated during this stage of reversible mitochondrial injury, but there was no sign of mitochondrial cytochrome c release. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that RGCs with impaired mitochondrial structure and function can fully recover if there is no mitochondrial cytochrome c release yet, and no PS is exposed at the plasma membrane. This finding indicates that there is a time window for rescuing dying or injured RGCs, by simply removing the cell death stimulus. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting You
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Disease, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
- Department of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
| | - Kèvin Knoops
- The Microscopy CORE lab, Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Boesten
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands
| | - Tos T J M Berendschot
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A M J van Zandvoort
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Disease, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
- Institute of Molecular Cardiovascular Research (IMCAR), Universitätsklinikum Aachen, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Birke J Benedikter
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands
| | - Carroll A B Webers
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands
| | - Chris P M Reutelingsperger
- Department of Biochemistry, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Disease, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands.
| | - Theo G M F Gorgels
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229 HX, The Netherlands.
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3
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Salvetat ML, Pellegrini F, Spadea L, Salati C, Zeppieri M. Pharmaceutical Approaches to Normal Tension Glaucoma. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1172. [PMID: 37631087 PMCID: PMC10458083 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081172] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal tension glaucoma (NTG) is defined as a subtype of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in which the intraocular pressure (IOP) values are constantly within the statistically normal range without treatment and represents approximately the 30-40% of all glaucomatous cases. The pathophysiology of this condition is multifactorial and is still not completely well known. Several theories have been proposed to explain the onset and progression of this disease, which can be divided into IOP-dependent and IOP-independent factors, suggesting different therapeutic strategies. The current literature strongly supports the fundamental role of IOP in NTG. The gold standard treatment for NTG tends to be based on the lowering IOP even if "statistically normal". Numerous studies have shown, however, that the IOP reduction alone is not enough to slow down or stop the disease progression in all cases, suggesting that other IOP-independent risk factors may contribute to the NTG pathogenesis. In addition to IOP-lowering strategies, several different therapeutic approaches for NTG have been proposed, based on vaso-active, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and/or neuroprotective substances. To date, unfortunately, there are no standardized or proven treatment alternatives for NTG when compared to traditional IOP reduction treatment regimes. The efficacy of the IOP-independent strategies in decreasing the risk or treating NTG still remains inconclusive. The aim of this review is to highlight strategies reported in the current literature to treat NTG. The paper also describes the challenges in finding appropriate and pertinent treatments for this potentially vision-threatening disease. Further comprehension of NTG pathophysiology can help clinicians determine when to use IOP-lowering treatments alone and when to consider additional or alternatively individualized therapies focused on particular risk factors, on a case-by-case basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Letizia Salvetat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Sanitaria Friuli Occidentale, 33170 Pordenone, Italy
| | - Francesco Pellegrini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Sanitaria Friuli Occidentale, 33170 Pordenone, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Dada T, Chauhan N. Optimizing Glaucoma Care: A Holistic Approach. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2023; 17:111-112. [PMID: 37920376 PMCID: PMC10618607 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10078-1416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
How to cite this article: Dada T, Chauhan N. Optimizing Glaucoma Care: A Holistic Approach. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2023;17(3):111-112.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanuj Dada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nidhi Chauhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Shi Y, Liu Y, Wu C, Liu X, Hu W, Yang Z, Li Z, Li Y, Deng C, Wei K, Gu C, Chen X, Su W, Zhuo Y. N,N-Dimethyl-3β-hydroxycholenamide attenuates neuronal death and retinal inflammation in retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting Ninjurin 1. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:91. [PMID: 37029422 PMCID: PMC10082498 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02754-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (RIR) injury refers to an obstruction in the retinal blood supply followed by reperfusion. Although the molecular mechanism underlying the ischemic pathological cascade is not fully understood, neuroinflammation plays a crucial part in the mortality of retinal ganglion cells. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), molecular docking, and transfection assay were used to explore the effectiveness and pathogenesis of N,N-dimethyl-3β-hydroxycholenamide (DMHCA)-treated mice with RIR injury and DMHCA-treated microglia after oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). RESULTS DMHCA could suppress inflammatory gene expression and attenuate neuronal lesions, restoring the retinal structure in vivo. Using scRNA-seq on the retina of DMHCA-treated mice, we provided novel insights into RIR immunity and demonstrated nerve injury-induced protein 1 (Ninjurin1/Ninj 1) as a promising treatment target for RIR. Moreover, the expression of Ninj1, which was increased in RIR injury and OGD/R-treated microglia, was downregulated in the DMHCA-treated group. DMHCA suppressed the activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways induced by OGD/R, which was undermined by the NF-κB pathway agonist betulinic acid. Overexpressed Ninj1 reversed the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic function of DMHCA. Molecular docking indicated that for Ninj1, DMHCA had a low binding energy of - 6.6 kcal/mol, suggesting highly stable binding. CONCLUSION Ninj1 may play a pivotal role in microglia-mediated inflammation, while DMHCA could be a potential treatment strategy against RIR injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yidan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Caiqing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiuxing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenfei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenlan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhidong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yangyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Caibin Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Chenyang Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuhao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenru Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 7 Jinsui Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
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Miao Y, Zhao GL, Cheng S, Wang Z, Yang XL. Activation of retinal glial cells contributes to the degeneration of ganglion cells in experimental glaucoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 93:101169. [PMID: 36736070 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factor for neurodegeneration in glaucoma. Glial cells, which play an important role in normal functioning of retinal neurons, are well involved into retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration in experimental glaucoma animal models generated by elevated IOP. In response to elevated IOP, mGluR I is first activated and Kir4.1 channels are subsequently inhibited, which leads to the activation of Müller cells. Müller cell activation is followed by a complex process, including proliferation, release of inflammatory and growth factors (gliosis). Gliosis is further regulated by several factors. Activated Müller cells contribute to RGC degeneration through generating glutamate receptor-mediated excitotoxicity, releasing cytotoxic factors and inducing microglia activation. Elevated IOP activates microglia, and following morphological and functional changes, these cells, as resident immune cells in the retina, show adaptive immune responses, including an enhanced release of pro-inflammatory factors (tumor neurosis factor-α, interleukins, etc.). These ATP and Toll-like receptor-mediated responses are further regulated by heat shock proteins, CD200R, chemokine receptors, and metabotropic purinergic receptors, may aggravate RGC loss. In the optic nerve head, astrogliosis is initiated and regulated by a complex reaction process, including purines, transmitters, chemokines, growth factors and cytokines, which contributes to RGC axon injury through releasing pro-inflammatory factors and changing extracellular matrix in glaucoma. The effects of activated glial cells on RGCs are further modified by the interplay among different types of glial cells. This review is concluded by presenting an in-depth discussion of possible research directions in this field in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanying Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guo-Li Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shuo Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhongfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xiong-Li Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Iezhitsa I, Lazaldin MM, Agarwal R, Agarwal P, Ismail N. Neuroprotective effects of exogenous brain-derived neurotrophic factor on amyloid-beta 1–40-induced retinal degeneration. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:382-388. [PMID: 35900434 PMCID: PMC9396500 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-beta (Aβ)-related alterations, similar to those found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, have been observed in the retina of patients with glaucoma. Decreased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are believed to be associated with the neurotoxic effects of Aβ peptide. To investigate the mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effects of BDNF on Aβ1–40-induced retinal injury in Sprague-Dawley rats, we treated rats by intravitreal administration of phosphate-buffered saline (control), Aβ1–40 (5 nM), or Aβ1–40 (5 nM) combined with BDNF (1 µg/mL). We found that intravitreal administration of Aβ1–40 induced retinal ganglion cell apoptosis. Fluoro-Gold staining showed a significantly lower number of retinal ganglion cells in the Aβ1–40 group than in the control and BDNF groups. In the Aβ1–40 group, low number of RGCs was associated with increased caspase-3 expression and reduced TrkB and ERK1/2 expression. BDNF abolished Aβ1–40-induced increase in the expression of caspase-3 at the gene and protein levels in the retina and upregulated TrkB and ERK1/2 expression. These findings suggest that treatment with BDNF prevents RGC apoptosis induced by Aβ1–40 by activating the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway in rats.
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Fafure AA, Edem EE, Obisesan AO, Enye LA, Adekeye AO, Adetunji AE, Nebo KE, Olusegun AA, Fafure OE. Fermented maize slurry (Ogi) and its supernatant (Omidun) mitigate elevated intraocular pressure by modulating BDNF expression and glial plasticity in the retina-gut axis of glaucomatous rats. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 19:887-896. [PMID: 34380184 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2021-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Growing interest has been reported on the health benefits of fermented foods, which includes cognition enhancement and inflammation attenuation. BDNF is a known protectant against retinal degeneration, however, therapies that target this neurotrophic factor has been limited. Therefore, we assessed the reaction of BDNF and glial cells in glaucomatous rats and their response to treatment with fermented maize products. METHODS Thirty male adult rats were either injected via the episcleral vein with hypertonic saline to elevate intraocular pressure (IOP) or treated with fermented maize slurry (Ogi) or its supernatant (Omidun). Following sacrifice, the retina and duodenum were studied by immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies directed against GFAP, AIF-1 and BDNF. RESULTS Hypertonic saline injection produced hypertrophy of the Müller cells and increased GFAP and AIF-1 expression in the retina and gut when compared to the control. Treatment with Ogi and Omidun produced varying degrees of reduction of gliosis, protection against hypertonic saline-induced retinal ganglion cell loss, and reduced intraocular pressure. BDNF expression was downregulated following the hypertonic saline assault, while Omidun and Ogi treatment abrogated its reduction following the hypertonic saline assault. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings suggest that acute elevation of IOP alters crosstalk between gut and retina with consequent aberrant activation of glial cells; and that probiotic bacteria like the lactic acid bacteria rich in fermented foods including Ogi and Omidun may offer neuroprotection to the ganglionic cells by attenuating the retinal glial reaction and improving BDNF activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedamola Adediran Fafure
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Edem Ekpenyong Edem
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Abiola Oluwatosin Obisesan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Linus Anderson Enye
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Adeshina Oloruntoba Adekeye
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Adedeji Enitan Adetunji
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Kate Eberechukwu Nebo
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Adebayo Adeoluwa Olusegun
- Neuropharmacology Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe-Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
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Peptains block retinal ganglion cell death in animal models of ocular hypertension: implications for neuroprotection in glaucoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:958. [PMID: 36379926 PMCID: PMC9666629 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05407-2] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ocular hypertension is a significant risk factor for vision loss in glaucoma due to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). This study investigated the effects of the antiapoptotic peptides peptain-1 and peptain-3a on RGC death in vitro in rat primary RGCs and in mouse models of ocular hypertension. Apoptosis was induced in primary rat RGCs by trophic factor deprivation for 48 h in the presence or absence of peptains. The effects of intravitreally injected peptains on RGC death were investigated in mice subjected to retinal ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). I/R injury was induced in mice by elevating the IOP to 120 mm Hg for 1 h, followed by rapid reperfusion. Ocular hypertension was induced in mice by injecting microbeads (MB) or silicone oil (SO) into the anterior chamber of the eye. Retinal flatmounts were immunostained with RGC and activated glial markers. Effects on anterograde axonal transport were determined by intravitreal injection of cholera toxin-B. Peptain-1 and peptain-3a inhibited neurotrophic factor deprivation-mediated RGC apoptosis by 29% and 35%, respectively. I/R injury caused 52% RGC loss, but peptain-1 and peptain-3a restricted RGC loss to 13% and 16%, respectively. MB and SO injections resulted in 31% and 36% loss in RGCs following 6 weeks and 4 weeks of IOP elevation, respectively. Peptain-1 and peptain-3a inhibited RGC death; the loss was only 4% and 12% in MB-injected eyes and 16% and 15% in SO-injected eyes, respectively. Anterograde transport was defective in eyes with ocular hypertension, but this defect was substantially ameliorated in peptain-injected eyes. Peptains suppressed ocular hypertension-mediated retinal glial activation. In summary, our results showed that peptains block RGC somal and axonal damage and neuroinflammation in animal models of glaucoma. We propose that peptains have the potential to be developed as therapeutics against neurodegeneration in glaucoma.
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Chronic Chemogenetic Activation of the Superior Colliculus in Glaucomatous Mice: Local and Retrograde Molecular Signature. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111784. [PMID: 35681479 PMCID: PMC9179903 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One important facet of glaucoma pathophysiology is axonal damage, which ultimately disrupts the connection between the retina and its postsynaptic brain targets. The concurrent loss of retrograde support interferes with the functionality and survival of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Previous research has shown that stimulation of neuronal activity in a primary retinal target area—i.e., the superior colliculus—promotes RGC survival in an acute mouse model of glaucoma. To build further on this observation, we applied repeated chemogenetics in the superior colliculus of a more chronic murine glaucoma model—i.e., the microbead occlusion model—and performed bulk RNA sequencing on collicular lysates and isolated RGCs. Our study revealed that chronic target stimulation upon glaucomatous injury phenocopies the a priori expected molecular response: growth factors were pinpointed as essential transcriptional regulators both in the locally stimulated tissue and in distant, unstimulated RGCs. Strikingly, and although the RGC transcriptome revealed a partial reversal of the glaucomatous signature and an enrichment of pro-survival signaling pathways, functional rescue of injured RGCs was not achieved. By postulating various explanations for the lack of RGC neuroprotection, we aim to warrant researchers and drug developers for the complexity of chronic neuromodulation and growth factor signaling.
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Lambuk L, Mohd Lazaldin MA, Ahmad S, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Mediated Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: A Review of Current State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875662. [PMID: 35668928 PMCID: PMC9163364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are neurons of the visual system that are responsible for transmitting signals from the retina to the brain via the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by apoptotic loss of RGCs and degeneration of optic nerve fibers. Risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure and vascular dysregulation trigger the injury that culminates in RGC apoptosis. In the event of injury, the survival of RGCs is facilitated by neurotrophic factors (NTFs), the most widely studied of which is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its production is regulated locally in the retina, but transport of BDNF retrogradely from the brain to retina is also crucial. Not only that the interruption of this retrograde transport has been detected in the early stages of glaucoma, but significantly low levels of BDNF have also been detected in the sera and ocular fluids of glaucoma patients, supporting the notion that neurotrophic deprivation is a likely mechanism of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Moreover, exogenous NTF including BDNF administration was shown reduce neuronal loss in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases, indicating the possibility that exogenous BDNF may be a treatment option in glaucoma. Current literature provides an extensive insight not only into the sources, transport, and target sites of BDNF but also the intracellular signaling pathways, other pathways that influence BDNF signaling and a wide range of its functions. In this review, the authors discuss the neuroprotective role of BDNF in promoting the survival of RGCs and its possible application as a therapeutic tool to meet the challenges in glaucoma management. We also highlight the possibility of using BDNF as a biomarker in neurodegenerative disease such as glaucoma. Further we discuss the challenges and future strategies to explore the utility of BDNF in the management of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | | | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- TardigradeNano LLC, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Rohimah Mohamud,
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12
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Conti F, Lazzara F, Romano GL, Platania CBM, Drago F, Bucolo C. Caffeine Protects Against Retinal Inflammation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:824885. [PMID: 35069225 PMCID: PMC8773454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.824885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Caffeine, one of the most consumed central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, is an antagonist of A1 and A2A adenosine receptors. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effects of this methylxanthine in the retinal tissue. We tested caffeine by using in vitro and in vivo paradigms of retinal inflammation. Human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without caffeine. This latter was able to reduce the inflammatory response in ARPE-19 cells exposed to LPS, attenuating the release of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α and the nuclear translocation of p-NFκB. Additionally, caffeine treatment restored the integrity of the ARPE-19 monolayer assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the sodium fluorescein permeability test. Finally, the ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury model was used in C57BL/6J mice to induce retinal inflammation and investigate the effects of caffeine treatment. Mouse eyes were treated topically with caffeine, and a pattern electroretinogram (PERG) was used to assess the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function; furthermore, we evaluated the levels of IL-6 and BDNF in the retina. Retinal BDNF dropped significantly (p < 0.05) in the I/R group compared to the control group (normal mice); on the contrary, caffeine treatment maintained physiological levels of BDNF in the retina of I/R eyes. Caffeine was also able to reduce IL-6 mRNA levels in the retina of I/R eyes. In conclusion, these findings suggest that caffeine is a good candidate to counteract inflammation in retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Conti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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13
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Shalaby WS, Ahmed OM, Waisbourd M, Katz LJ. A Review of Potential Novel Glaucoma Therapeutic Options Independent of Intraocular Pressure. Surv Ophthalmol 2021; 67:1062-1080. [PMID: 34890600 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma, a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by retinal ganglion cell degeneration and visual field loss, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Intraocular pressure (IOP) is presently the only modifiable risk factor demonstrated to slow or halt disease progression; however, glaucomatous damage persists in almost 50% of patients despite significant IOP reduction. Many studies have investigated the non-IOP-related risk factors that contribute to glaucoma progression as well as interventions that can prevent or delay glaucomatous neurodegeneration and preserve vision throughout life, independently of IOP. A vast number of experimental studies have reported effective neuroprotection in glaucoma, and clinical studies are ongoing attempting to provide strong evidence of effectiveness of these interventions. In this review, we look into the current understanding of the pathophysiology of glaucoma and explore the recent advances in non-IOP related strategies for neuroprotection and neuroregeneration in glaucoma.
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Key Words
- AMD, Age-related macular degeneration
- BDNF, Brain derived neurotrophic factor
- CNTF, Ciliary neurotrophic factor
- GDNF, Glial‐derived neurotrophic factor
- Glaucoma
- IOP, Intraocular pressure
- LoGTS, Low-Pressure Glaucoma Treatment Study
- MRI, Magnetic resonance imaging
- MSCs, Mesenchymal stem cells
- NGF, Nerve growth factor
- NTG, Normal tension glaucoma
- OCTA, Optical coherence tomography angiography
- PBM, hotobiomodulation
- PDGF, Platelet derived growth factor
- POAG, Primary open angle glaucoma
- RGCs, Retinal ganglion cells
- TNF-α, Tumor necrosis factor- α
- bFGF, Basic fibroblast growth factor
- gene therapy
- intracranial pressure
- intraocular pressure
- neuroprotection
- ocular blood flow
- oxidative stress
- retinal ganglion cells
- stem cell therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesam Shamseldin Shalaby
- Glaucoma Research Center, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tanta Medical School, Tanta University, Tanta, Gharbia, Egypt
| | - Osama M Ahmed
- Glaucoma Research Center, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Michael Waisbourd
- Glaucoma Research Center, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - L Jay Katz
- Glaucoma Research Center, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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14
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Nicoară SD, Brie I, Jurj A, Sorițău O. The Future of Stem Cells and Their Derivates in the Treatment of Glaucoma. A Critical Point of View. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011077. [PMID: 34681739 PMCID: PMC8540760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the clinical translation of preclinical studies, especially those that have used stem cells in the treatment of glaucoma, with an emphasis on optic nerve regeneration. The studies referred to in the review aim to treat optic nerve atrophy, while cell therapies targeting other sites in the eye, such as the trabecular meshwork, have not been addressed. Such complex and varied pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to glaucoma may explain the fact that although stem cells have a high capacity of neuronal regeneration, the treatments performed did not have the expected results and the promise offered by animal studies was not achieved. By analyzing the facts associated with failure, important lessons are to be learned: the type of stem cells that are used, the route of administration, the selection of patients eligible for these treatments, additional therapies that support stem cells transplantation and their mode of action, methods of avoiding the host’s immune response. Many of these problems could be solved using exosomes (EV), but also miRNA, which allows more targeted approaches with minimal side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Delia Nicoară
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Clinic of Ophthalmology, Emergency County Hospital, 3–5 Clinicilor Street, 40006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +40-264592771
| | - Ioana Brie
- “Ion Chiricuță” Institute of Oncology, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Radiobiology, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400010 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.B.); (O.S.)
| | - Ancuța Jurj
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babeș Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Olga Sorițău
- “Ion Chiricuță” Institute of Oncology, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Radiobiology, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400010 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.B.); (O.S.)
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15
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Visuvanathan S, Baker AN, Lagali PS, Coupland SG, Miller G, Hauswirth WW, Tsilfidis C. XIAP gene therapy effects on retinal ganglion cell structure and function in a mouse model of glaucoma. Gene Ther 2021; 29:147-156. [PMID: 34363035 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00281-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by progressive visual field loss. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. The main risk factor for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure that results in the damage and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. The death of RGCs has been shown to be apoptotic. We tested the hypothesis that blocking the activation of apoptosis may be an effective strategy to prevent RGC death and preserve functional vision in glaucoma. In the magnetic microbead mouse model of induced ocular hypertension, inhibition of RGC apoptosis was targeted through viral-mediated ocular delivery of the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) gene, a potent caspase inhibitor. Pattern electroretinograms revealed that XIAP therapy resulted in significant protection of both somal and axonal RGC function in glaucomatous eyes. Histology confirmed that the treated optic nerves showed preservation of axon counts and reduced glial cell infiltration. These results show that XIAP is able to provide both functional and structural protection of RGCs in the microbead model of glaucoma and provide important proof-of-principle for XIAP's efficacy as a neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagana Visuvanathan
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Adam N Baker
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Pamela S Lagali
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Stuart G Coupland
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Regenerative Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Garfield Miller
- Regenerative Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - William W Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Catherine Tsilfidis
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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16
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Multifactorial Pathogenic Processes of Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration in Glaucoma towards Multi-Target Strategies for Broader Treatment Effects. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061372. [PMID: 34199494 PMCID: PMC8228726 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by apoptosis of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) somas, degeneration of axons, and loss of synapses at dendrites and axon terminals. Glaucomatous neurodegeneration encompasses multiple triggers, multiple cell types, and multiple molecular pathways through the etiological paths with biomechanical, vascular, metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory components. As much as intrinsic responses of RGCs themselves, divergent responses and intricate interactions of the surrounding glia also play decisive roles for the cell fate. Seen from a broad perspective, multitarget treatment strategies have a compelling pathophysiological basis to more efficiently manipulate multiple pathogenic processes at multiple injury sites in such a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease. Despite distinct molecular programs for somatic and axonal degeneration, mitochondrial dysfunction and glia-driven neuroinflammation present interdependent processes with widespread impacts in the glaucomatous retina and optic nerve. Since dysfunctional mitochondria stimulate inflammatory responses and proinflammatory mediators impair mitochondria, mitochondrial restoration may be immunomodulatory, while anti-inflammatory treatments protect mitochondria. Manipulation of these converging routes may thus allow a unified treatment strategy to protect RGC axons, somas, and synapses. This review presents an overview of recent research advancements with emphasis on potential treatment targets to achieve the best treatment efficacy to preserve visual function in glaucoma.
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17
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Komáromy AM, Koehl KL, Park SA. Looking into the future: Gene and cell therapies for glaucoma. Vet Ophthalmol 2021; 24 Suppl 1:16-33. [PMID: 33411993 PMCID: PMC7979454 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex group of optic neuropathies that affects both humans and animals. Intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation is a major risk factor that results in the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Currently, lowering IOP by medical and surgical methods is the only approved treatment for primary glaucoma, but there is no cure, and vision loss often progresses despite therapy. Recent technologic advances provide us with a better understanding of disease mechanisms and risk factors; this will permit earlier diagnosis of glaucoma and initiation of therapy sooner and more effectively. Gene and cell therapies are well suited to target these mechanisms specifically with the potential to achieve a lasting therapeutic effect. Much progress has been made in laboratory settings to develop these novel therapies for the eye. Gene and cell therapies have already been translated into clinical application for some inherited retinal dystrophies and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Except for the intravitreal application of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) by encapsulated cell technology for RGC neuroprotection, there has been no other clinical translation of gene and cell therapies for glaucoma so far. Possible application of gene and cell therapies consists of long-term IOP control via increased aqueous humor drainage, including inhibition of fibrosis following filtration surgery, RGC neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, modification of ocular biomechanics for improved IOP tolerance, and inhibition of inflammation and neovascularization to prevent the development of some forms of secondary glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- András M. Komáromy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kristin L. Koehl
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Shin Ae Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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18
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Vernazza S, Tirendi S, Bassi AM, Traverso CE, Saccà SC. Neuroinflammation in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3172. [PMID: 33007927 PMCID: PMC7601106 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the second leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests oxidative damage and immune response defects are key factors contributing to glaucoma onset. Indeed, both the failure of the trabecular meshwork tissue in the conventional outflow pathway and the neuroinflammation process, which drives the neurodegeneration, seem to be linked to the age-related over-production of free radicals (i.e., mitochondrial dysfunction) and to oxidative stress-linked immunostimulatory signaling. Several previous studies have described a wide range of oxidative stress-related makers which are found in glaucomatous patients, including low levels of antioxidant defences, dysfunction/activation of glial cells, the activation of the NF-κB pathway and the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and so on. However, the intraocular pressure is still currently the only risk factor modifiable by medication or glaucoma surgery. This present review aims to summarize the multiple cellular processes, which promote different risk factors in glaucoma including aging, oxidative stress, trabecular meshwork defects, glial activation response, neurodegenerative insults, and the altered regulation of immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Tirendi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.M.B.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Italy
| | - Anna Maria Bassi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (S.T.); (A.M.B.)
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Italy
| | - Carlo Enrico Traverso
- Clinica Oculistica, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS-Polyclinic San Martino Hospital, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
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19
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Cimaglia G, Votruba M, Morgan JE, André H, Williams PA. Potential Therapeutic Benefit of NAD + Supplementation for Glaucoma and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092871. [PMID: 32961812 PMCID: PMC7551676 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide with significant health and societal burdens. To date, no clinical cures are available and treatments target only the manageable symptoms and risk factors (but do not remediate the underlying pathology of the disease). Both diseases are neurodegenerative in their pathology of the retina and as such many of the events that trigger cell dysfunction, degeneration, and eventual loss are due to mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Here, we critically review how a decreased bioavailability of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD; a crucial metabolite in healthy and disease states) may underpin many of these aberrant mechanisms. We propose how exogenous sources of NAD may become a therapeutic standard for the treatment of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Cimaglia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
| | - Marcela Votruba
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
- Cardiff Eye Unit, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, Wales, UK
| | - James E. Morgan
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; (M.V.); (J.E.M.)
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4YS, Wales, UK
| | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (H.A.); (P.A.W.)
| | - Pete A. Williams
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, 112 82 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (H.A.); (P.A.W.)
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20
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Singh RK, Nasonkin IO. Limitations and Promise of Retinal Tissue From Human Pluripotent Stem Cells for Developing Therapies of Blindness. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:179. [PMID: 33132839 PMCID: PMC7513806 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The self-formation of retinal tissue from pluripotent stem cells generated a tremendous promise for developing new therapies of retinal degenerative diseases, which previously seemed unattainable. Together with use of induced pluripotent stem cells or/and CRISPR-based recombineering the retinal organoid technology provided an avenue for developing models of human retinal degenerative diseases "in a dish" for studying the pathology, delineating the mechanisms and also establishing a platform for large-scale drug screening. At the same time, retinal organoids, highly resembling developing human fetal retinal tissue, are viewed as source of multipotential retinal progenitors, young photoreceptors and just the whole retinal tissue, which may be transplanted into the subretinal space with a goal of replacing patient's degenerated retina with a new retinal "patch." Both approaches (transplantation and modeling/drug screening) were projected when Yoshiki Sasai demonstrated the feasibility of deriving mammalian retinal tissue from pluripotent stem cells, and generated a lot of excitement. With further work and testing of both approaches in vitro and in vivo, a major implicit limitation has become apparent pretty quickly: the absence of the uniform layer of Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) cells, which is normally present in mammalian retina, surrounds photoreceptor layer and develops and matures first. The RPE layer polarize into apical and basal sides during development and establish microvilli on the apical side, interacting with photoreceptors, nurturing photoreceptor outer segments and participating in the visual cycle by recycling 11-trans retinal (bleached pigment) back to 11-cis retinal. Retinal organoids, however, either do not have RPE layer or carry patches of RPE mostly on one side, thus directly exposing most photoreceptors in the developing organoids to neural medium. Recreation of the critical retinal niche between the apical RPE and photoreceptors, where many retinal disease mechanisms originate, is so far unattainable, imposes clear limitations on both modeling/drug screening and transplantation approaches and is a focus of investigation in many labs. Here we dissect different retinal degenerative diseases and analyze how and where retinal organoid technology can contribute the most to developing therapies even with a current limitation and absence of long and functional outer segments, supported by RPE.
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21
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Lu R, Soden PA, Lee E. Tissue-Engineered Models for Glaucoma Research. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11060612. [PMID: 32599818 PMCID: PMC7345325 DOI: 10.3390/mi11060612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies characterized by the progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Patients with glaucoma generally experience elevations in intraocular pressure (IOP), followed by RGC death, peripheral vision loss and eventually blindness. However, despite the substantial economic and health-related impact of glaucoma-related morbidity worldwide, the surgical and pharmacological management of glaucoma is still limited to maintaining IOP within a normal range. This is in large part because the underlying molecular and biophysical mechanisms by which glaucomatous changes occur are still unclear. In the present review article, we describe current tissue-engineered models of the intraocular space that aim to advance the state of glaucoma research. Specifically, we critically evaluate and compare both 2D and 3D-culture models of the trabecular meshwork and nerve fiber layer, both of which are key players in glaucoma pathophysiology. Finally, we point out the need for novel organ-on-a-chip models of glaucoma that functionally integrate currently available 3D models of the retina and the trabecular outflow pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renhao Lu
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA;
| | - Paul A. Soden
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA;
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-607-255-8491
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22
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23
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Role of 24-Hour Intraocular Pressure Monitoring in Glaucoma Management. J Ophthalmol 2019; 2019:3632197. [PMID: 31641532 PMCID: PMC6770303 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3632197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and the prevalence is on the rising trend. Intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is the mainstay of treatment. The current practice of IOP monitoring is based on spot measurements during clinic visits during office hours. However, there are up to 50% of glaucoma patients who had normal initial IOP, while some treated patients continued to have progressive glaucomatous optic nerve damage even with a low IOP. Recent studies have shown that the IOP of glaucoma patients fluctuated during the day with different patterns, and some of them had peak IOP outside office hours. These findings provided us with new insights on the role of 24-hour IOP monitoring in managing normal tension glaucoma and patients with progressive deterioration despite apparently well-controlled IOP. Nevertheless, results to date are rather inconsistent, and there is no consensus yet. In this review, we briefly highlighted the current modalities of 24-hour IOP monitoring and summarized the characteristic 24-hour IOP pattern and the clinical relevance of IOP parameters in predicting glaucomatous progression in different glaucoma subtypes. We also discussed the therapeutic efficacy of current glaucoma treatment modalities with respect to the mentioned 24-hour IOP profiles, so as to strengthen the role of 24-hour IOP monitoring in identifying and stratifying the risks of progression in glaucoma patients, as well as optimizing treatments according to their IOP profiles.
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Claes M, De Groef L, Moons L. Target-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Deprivation Puts Retinal Ganglion Cells on Death Row: Cold Hard Evidence and Caveats. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4314. [PMID: 31484425 PMCID: PMC6747494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma and other optic neuropathies are characterized by axonal transport deficits. Axonal cargo travels back and forth between the soma and the axon terminus, a mechanism ensuring homeostasis and the viability of a neuron. An example of vital molecules in the axonal cargo are neurotrophic factors (NTFs). Hindered retrograde transport can cause a scarcity of those factors in the retina, which in turn can tilt the fate of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) towards apoptosis. This postulation is one of the most widely recognized theories to explain RGC death in the disease progression of glaucoma and is known as the NTF deprivation theory. For several decades, research has been focused on the use of NTFs as a novel neuroprotective glaucoma treatment. Until now, results in animal models have been promising, but translation to the clinic has been highly disappointing. Are we lacking important knowledge to lever NTF therapies towards the therapeutic armamentarium? Or did we get the wrong end of the stick regarding the NTF deprivation theory? In this review, we will tackle the existing evidence and caveats advocating for and against the target-derived NTF deprivation theory in glaucoma, whilst digging into associated therapy efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Claes
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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25
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Hindle AG, Thoonen R, Jasien JV, Grange RMH, Amin K, Wise J, Ozaki M, Ritch R, Malhotra R, Buys ES. Identification of Candidate miRNA Biomarkers for Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:134-146. [PMID: 30629727 PMCID: PMC6329203 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, often remains undetected until irreversible vision loss has occurred. Treatments focus on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), the only modifiable and readily measurable risk factor. However, IOP can vary and does not always predict disease progression. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising biomarkers. They are abundant and stable in biological fluids, including plasma and aqueous humor (AqH). We aimed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in AqH and plasma from glaucoma, exfoliation syndrome (XFS), and control subjects. Methods Plasma and AqH from two ethnic cohorts were harvested from glaucoma or XFS (often associated with glaucoma, n = 33) and control (n = 31) patients undergoing elective surgery. A custom miRNA array measured 372 miRNAs. Molecular target prediction and pathway analysis were performed with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and DIANA bioinformatical tools. Results Levels of miRNAs in plasma, a readily accessible biomarker source, correlated with miRNA levels in AqH. Twenty circulating miRNAs were at least 1.5-fold higher in glaucoma or XFS patients than in controls across two ethnic cohorts: miR-4667-5p (P = 4.1 × 10−5), miR-99b-3p (P = 4.8 × 10−5), miR-637 (P = 5.1 × 10−5), miR-4490 (P = 5.7 × 10−5), miR-1253 (P = 6.0 × 10−5), miR-3190-3p (P = 3.1 × 10−4), miR-3173-3p (P = 0.001), miR-608 (P = 0.001), miR-4725-3p (P = 0.002), miR-4448 (P = 0.002), and miR-323b-5p (P = 0.002), miR-4538 (P = 0.003), miR-3913-3p (P = 0.003), miR-3159 (P = 0.003), miR-4663 (P = 0.003), miR-4767 (P = 0.003), miR-4724-5p (P = 0.003), miR-1306-5p (P = 0.003), miR-181b-3p (P = 0.004), and miR-433-3p (P = 0.004). miR-637, miR-1306-5p, and miR-3159, in combination, allowed discrimination between glaucoma patients and control subjects (AUC = 0.91 ± 0.008, sensitivity 85.0%, specificity 87.5%). Conclusions These results identify specific miRNAs as potential biomarkers and provide insight into the molecular processes underlying glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson G Hindle
- Anesthesia Center for Critical Care Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Robrecht Thoonen
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jessica V Jasien
- Einhorn Clinical Research Center, New York Ear Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Robert M H Grange
- Anesthesia Center for Critical Care Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Jasen Wise
- Qiagen, Frederick, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Robert Ritch
- Einhorn Clinical Research Center, New York Ear Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Rajeev Malhotra
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Emmanuel S Buys
- Anesthesia Center for Critical Care Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Pérez de Lara MJ, Avilés-Trigueros M, Guzmán-Aránguez A, Valiente-Soriano FJ, de la Villa P, Vidal-Sanz M, Pintor J. Potential role of P2X7 receptor in neurodegenerative processes in a murine model of glaucoma. Brain Res Bull 2019; 150:61-74. [PMID: 31102752 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common cause of visual impairment and blindness, characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death. The mechanisms that trigger the development of glaucoma remain unknown and have gained significant relevance in the study of this neurodegenerative disease. P2X7 purinergic receptors (P2X7R) could be involved in the regulation of the synaptic transmission and neuronal death in the retina through different pathways. The aim of this study was to characterize the molecular signals underlying glaucomatous retinal injury. The time-course of functional, morphological, and molecular changes in the glaucomatous retina of the DBA/2J mice were investigated. The expression and localization of P2X7R was analysed in relation with retinal markers. Caspase-3, JNK, and p38 were evaluated in control and glaucomatous mice by immunohistochemical and western-blot analysis. Furthermore, electroretinogram recordings (ERG) were performed to assess inner retina dysfunction. Glaucomatous mice exhibited changes in P2X7R expression as long as the pathology progressed. There was P2X7R overexpression in RGCs, the primary injured neurons, which correlated with the loss of function through ERG measurements. All analyzed MAPK and caspase-3 proteins were upregulated in the DBA/2J retinas suggesting a pro-apoptotic cell death. The increase in P2X7Rs presence may contribute, together with other factors, to the changes in retinal functionality and the concomitant death of RGCs. These findings provide evidence of possible intracellular pathways responsible for apoptosis regulation during glaucomatous degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Pérez de Lara
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, c/Arcos de Jalón 118, E-28037, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcelino Avilés-Trigueros
- Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology, Dept. of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia and Murcia Institute of Bio-Health Research (IMIB), E-30120, El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ana Guzmán-Aránguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, c/Arcos de Jalón 118, E-28037, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Javier Valiente-Soriano
- Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology, Dept. of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia and Murcia Institute of Bio-Health Research (IMIB), E-30120, El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pedro de la Villa
- Systems Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology, Dept. of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia and Murcia Institute of Bio-Health Research (IMIB), E-30120, El Palmar, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Jesús Pintor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, c/Arcos de Jalón 118, E-28037, Madrid, Spain
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Geeraerts E, Claes M, Dekeyster E, Salinas-Navarro M, De Groef L, Van den Haute C, Scheyltjens I, Baekelandt V, Arckens L, Moons L. Optogenetic Stimulation of the Superior Colliculus Confers Retinal Neuroprotection in a Mouse Glaucoma Model. J Neurosci 2019; 39:2313-2325. [PMID: 30655352 PMCID: PMC6433760 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0872-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is characterized by a progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the eye, which ultimately results in visual impairment or even blindness. Because current therapies often fail to halt disease progression, there is an unmet need for novel neuroprotective therapies to support RGC survival. Various research lines suggest that visual target centers in the brain support RGC functioning and survival. Here, we explored whether increasing neuronal activity in one of these projection areas could improve survival of RGCs in a mouse glaucoma model. Prolonged activation of an important murine RGC target area, the superior colliculus (SC), was established via a novel optogenetic stimulation paradigm. By leveraging the unique channel kinetics of the stabilized step function opsin (SSFO), protracted stimulation of the SC was achieved with only a brief light pulse. SSFO-mediated collicular stimulation was confirmed by immunohistochemistry for the immediate-early gene c-Fos and behavioral tracking, which both demonstrated consistent neuronal activity upon repeated stimulation. Finally, the neuroprotective potential of optogenetic collicular stimulation was investigated in mice of either sex subjected to a glaucoma model and a 63% reduction in RGC loss was found. This work describes a new paradigm for optogenetic collicular stimulation and a first demonstration that increasing target neuron activity can increase survival of the projecting neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Despite glaucoma being a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment worldwide, no curative therapies exist. This study describes a novel paradigm to reduce retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration underlying glaucoma. Building on previous observations that RGC survival is supported by the target neurons to which they project and using an innovative optogenetic approach, we increased neuronal activity in the mouse superior colliculus, a main projection target of rodent RGCs. This proved to be efficient in reducing RGC loss in a glaucoma model. Our findings establish a new optogenetic paradigm for target stimulation and encourage further exploration of the molecular signaling pathways mediating retrograde neuroprotective communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiel Geeraerts
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie Claes
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eline Dekeyster
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuel Salinas-Navarro
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Viral Vector Core Leuven, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium, and
| | - Isabelle Scheyltjens
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology; KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lutgarde Arckens
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, Department of Biology; KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium,
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Segatto M, Fico E, Gharbiya M, Rosso P, Carito V, Tirassa P, Plateroti R, Lambiase A. VEGF inhibition alters neurotrophin signalling pathways and induces caspase-3 activation and autophagy in rabbit retina. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:18297-18307. [PMID: 30891770 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This study sought to evaluate the prospective role exerted by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the modulation of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling pathways in the rabbit retina. To reach this aim, the anti-VEGF agents aflibercept and ranibizumab were used as a pharmacological approach to evaluate the putative consequences elicited by VEGF inhibition on neurotrophin signalling. VEGF inhibition determined a marked imbalance in proneurotrophin expression, a significant reduction in TrkA and TrkB phosphorylation states and a decrease in the pan-neurotrophin receptor p75. Importantly, VEGF blockade also caused a strong increase in cleaved caspase-3, beclin-1 and lipidated LC3. The effects were more pronounced in the aflibercept group when compared with ranibizumab-treated rabbits, particularly 1 week after injection. This study demonstrates that VEGF exerts pivotal physiological roles in regulating NGF and BDNF pathways in the retina, as its inhibition by anti-VEGF agents deeply impacts neurotrophin homeostasis. These events are accompanied by a sustained induction of apoptotic and autophagic markers, suggesting that anti-VEGF-dependent impairments in neurotrophin signalling could be responsible for the activation of retinal cell death pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Pesche, Italy.,Department of Sense Organs, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Fico
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology (IBCN-CNR), Rome, Italy.,Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Magda Gharbiya
- Department of Sense Organs, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Pamela Rosso
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology (IBCN-CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Carito
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology (IBCN-CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Tirassa
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology (IBCN-CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Plateroti
- Department of Sense Organs, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
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Alqawlaq S, Flanagan JG, Sivak JM. All roads lead to glaucoma: Induced retinal injury cascades contribute to a common neurodegenerative outcome. Exp Eye Res 2018; 183:88-97. [PMID: 30447198 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma describes a distinct optic neuropathy with complex etiology and a variety of associated risk factors, but with similar pathological endpoints. Risk factors such as age, increased intraocular pressure (IOP), low mean arterial pressure, and autoimmune disease, can all be associated with death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve head remodeling. Today, IOP management remains the standard of care, even though IOP elevation is not pathognomonic of glaucoma, and patients can continue to lose vision despite effective IOP control. A contemporary view of glaucoma as a complex, neurodegenerative disease has developed, along with the recognition of a need for new disease modifying retinal treatment strategies and improved outcomes. However, the distinction between risk factors triggering the disease process and retinal injury responses is not always clear. In this review, we attempt to distinguish between the various triggers, and their association with subsequent key RGC injury mechanisms. We propose that distinct glaucomatous risk factors result in similar retinal and optic nerve injury cascades, including oxidative and metabolic stress, glial reactivity, and altered inflammatory responses, which induce common molecular signals to induce RGC apoptosis. This organization forms a coherent disease framework and presents conserved targets for therapeutic intervention that are not limited to specific risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samih Alqawlaq
- Department of Vision Science, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Vision Science Research Program, Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John G Flanagan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science Program, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jeremy M Sivak
- Department of Vision Science, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Vision Science Research Program, Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Ayala M, Cuklev F. Indistinguishable gene expression between healthy eyes and eyes with unilateral exfoliative glaucoma. Clin Ophthalmol 2018; 12:1155-1162. [PMID: 30050275 PMCID: PMC6055626 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s166958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy associated with visual field loss. There are different types of glaucoma, among them exfoliative glaucoma. Glaucoma can present as unilateral or bilateral. The present study aimed to show the association between gene expression and exfoliation in unilateral glaucoma cases. Methods Included patients were suffering from exfoliative glaucoma in one eye, meanwhile the other eye was healthy and used as a control. Lens capsule and conjunctival biopsies were taken from both eyes. Gene expression was analyzed. Results Both groups were completely different at baseline regarding intraocular pressure, visual acuity before the operation, visual field damage, optic nerve damage, etc. As for gene expression, the only significant difference was found in CYP1B1 from lens capsules. None of the other genes studied showed differential expression in either lens capsules or conjunctival biopsies. Conclusion No difference in gene expression was found between eyes with and without exfoliative glaucoma. Exfoliative glaucoma seems to be a bilateral disease, though the phenotype is not always clinically present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Ayala
- Eye Department, Skaraborg Hospital, Skövde, Sweden, .,Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden, .,Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden,
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31
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Mysona BA, Zhao J, Smith S, Bollinger KE. Relationship between Sigma-1 receptor and BDNF in the visual system. Exp Eye Res 2018; 167:25-30. [PMID: 29031856 PMCID: PMC5757370 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is an incurable optic neuropathy characterized by dysfunction and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an essential neurotrophin that supports RGC function and survival. Despite BDNF's importance, our knowledge of molecular mechanisms that modulate BDNF processing and secretion is incomplete. Sigma-1 receptor (S1R) is associated with increased BDNF in hippocampus and with BDNF secretion by brain-derived astrocytes and neuronal cell lines. Much less is known about the relationship between S1R and BDNF in the visual system. Here, we examine how S1R activation and deletion alter expression of mature BDNF (mBDNF) and proBDNF in retina and cultured optic nerve head (ONH) astrocytes. For S1R activation, the S1R agonist (+)-pentazocine (PTZ, 0.5 mg/kg) was administered by intraperitoneal injection to C57BL/6J mice, 3 times per week, for 5 weeks. Expression of proBDNF and mBDNF was also examined in S1R knockout and age-matched C57BL/6J mice. In vitro, cultured ONH astrocytes were treated with 3 μM PTZ for 24 h followed by collection of media and ONH astrocyte lysates. Results showed that treatment with (+)-PTZ increased mBDNF protein in both retina and hippocampus. In contrast, S1R deletion was associated with retinal mBDNF deficits. In ONH astrocytes S1R agonist (+)-PTZ significantly increased levels of secreted BDNF and proBDNF in cell lysates. These findings support a role for S1R in the modulation of BDNF levels within the retina and optic nerve head. Treatment with S1R agonists might provide benefit in diseases such as glaucoma by increasing BDNF levels from endogenous sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Mysona
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Jing Zhao
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Sylvia Smith
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Kathryn E Bollinger
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States.
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Bucolo C, Platania CBM, Drago F, Bonfiglio V, Reibaldi M, Avitabile T, Uva M. Novel Therapeutics in Glaucoma Management. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:978-992. [PMID: 28925883 PMCID: PMC6120119 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170915142727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by retinal ganglion cell death and alterations of visual field. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is considered the main risk factor of glaucoma, even though other factors cannot be ruled out, such as epigenetic mechanisms. OBJECTIVE An overview of the ultimate promising experimental drugs to manage glaucoma has been provided. RESULTS In particular, we have focused on purinergic ligands, KATP channel activators, gases (nitric oxide, carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide), non-glucocorticoid steroidal compounds, neurotrophic factors, PI3K/Akt activators, citicoline, histone deacetylase inhibitors, cannabinoids, dopamine and serotonin receptors ligands, small interference RNA, and Rho kinase inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS The review has been also endowed of a brief chapter on last reports about potential neuroprotective benefits of anti-glaucoma drugs already present in the market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; Tel: +39 095 4781196;
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Martinez-Moreno CG, Fleming T, Carranza M, Ávila-Mendoza J, Luna M, Harvey S, Arámburo C. Growth hormone protects against kainate excitotoxicity and induces BDNF and NT3 expression in chicken neuroretinal cells. Exp Eye Res 2017; 166:1-12. [PMID: 29030174 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence to suggest a beneficial neuroprotective effect of growth hormone (GH) in the nervous system. While our previous studies have largely focused on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), we have also found conclusive evidence of a pro-survival effect of GH in cells of the inner nuclear layer (INL) as well as a protective effect on the dendritic trees of the inner plexiform layer (IPL) in the retina. The administration of GH in primary neuroretinal cell cultures protected and induced neural outgrowths. Our results, both in vitro (embryo) and in vivo (postnatal), showed neuroprotective actions of GH against kainic acid (KA)-induced excitotoxicity in the chicken neuroretina. Intravitreal injections of GH restored brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in retinas treated with KA. In addition, we demonstrated that GH over-expression and exogenous administration increased BDNF and neurotrophin-3 (NT3) gene expression in embryonic neuroretinal cells. Thus, GH neuroprotective actions in neural tissues may be mediated by a complex cascade of neurotrophins and growth factors which have been classically related to damage prevention and neuroretinal tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Martinez-Moreno
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro., 76230, Mexico.
| | - T Fleming
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - M Carranza
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro., 76230, Mexico
| | - J Ávila-Mendoza
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro., 76230, Mexico
| | - M Luna
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro., 76230, Mexico
| | - S Harvey
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - C Arámburo
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus Juriquilla, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Qro., 76230, Mexico
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Epigenetics and Signaling Pathways in Glaucoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:5712341. [PMID: 28210622 PMCID: PMC5292191 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5712341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the most common cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. This neurodegenerative disease becomes more prevalent with aging, but predisposing genetic and environmental factors also contribute to increased risk. Emerging evidence now suggests that epigenetics may also be involved, which provides potential new therapeutic targets. These three factors work through several pathways, including TGF-β, MAP kinase, Rho kinase, BDNF, JNK, PI-3/Akt, PTEN, Bcl-2, Caspase, and Calcium-Calpain signaling. Together, these pathways result in the upregulation of proapoptotic gene expression, the downregulation of neuroprotective and prosurvival factors, and the generation of fibrosis at the trabecular meshwork, which may block aqueous humor drainage. Novel therapeutic agents targeting these pathway members have shown preliminary success in animal models and even human trials, demonstrating that they may eventually be used to preserve retinal neurons and vision.
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Overexpression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Protects Large Retinal Ganglion Cells After Optic Nerve Crush in Mice. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0331-16. [PMID: 28101532 PMCID: PMC5240030 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0331-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin essential for neuron survival and function, plays an important role in neuroprotection during neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined whether a modest increase of retinal BDNF promotes retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival after acute injury of the optic nerve in mice. We adopted an inducible Cre-recombinase transgenic system to up-regulate BDNF in the mouse retina and then examined RGC survival after optic nerve crush by in vivo imaging. We focused on one subtype of RGC with large soma expressing yellow fluorescent protein transgene that accounts for ∼11% of the total SMI-32-positive RGCs. The median survival time of this subgroup of SMI-32 cells was 1 week after nerve injury in control mice but 2 weeks when BDNF was up-regulated. Interestingly, we found that the survival time for RGCs taken as a whole was 2 weeks, suggesting that these large-soma RGCs are especially vulnerable to optic nerve crush injury. We also studied changes in axon number using confocal imaging, confirming first the progressive loss reported previously for wild-type mice and demonstrating that BDNF up-regulation extended axon survival. Together, our results demonstrate that the time course of RGC loss induced by optic nerve injury is type specific and that overexpression of BDNF prolongs the survival of one subgroup of SMI-32-positive RGCs.
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Borrás T. The Pathway From Genes to Gene Therapy in Glaucoma: A Review of Possibilities for Using Genes as Glaucoma Drugs. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2017; 6:80-93. [PMID: 28161916 PMCID: PMC6005701 DOI: 10.22608/apo.2016126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of diseases with gene therapy is advancing rapidly. The use of gene therapy has expanded from the original concept of re-placing the mutated gene causing the disease to the use of genes to con-trol nonphysiological levels of expression or to modify pathways known to affect the disease. Genes offer numerous advantages over conventional drugs. They have longer duration of action and are more specific. Genes can be delivered to the target site by naked DNA, cells, nonviral, and viral vectors. The enormous progress of the past decade in molecular bi-ology and delivery systems has provided ways for targeting genes to the intended cell/tissue and safe, long-term vectors. The eye is an ideal organ for gene therapy. It is easily accessible and it is an immune-privileged site. Currently, there are clinical trials for diseases affecting practically every tissue of the eye, including those to restore vision in patients with Leber congenital amaurosis. However, the number of eye trials compared with those for systemic diseases is quite low (1.8%). Nevertheless, judg-ing by the vast amount of ongoing preclinical studies, it is expected that such number will increase considerably in the near future. One area of great need for eye gene therapy is glaucoma, where a long-term gene drug would eliminate daily applications and compliance issues. Here, we review the current state of gene therapy for glaucoma and the possibilities for treating the trabecular meshwork to lower intraocular pressure and the retinal ganglion cells to protect them from neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Borrás
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Choudhari JK, Choubey J, Patel A, Verma MK. Molecular modeling and simulation analysis of glaucoma pathway. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s13721-016-0136-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Liu R, Wang Y, Pu M, Gao J. Effect of alpha lipoic acid on retinal ganglion cell survival in an optic nerve crush model. Mol Vis 2016; 22:1122-1136. [PMID: 27703307 PMCID: PMC5040455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was conducted to determine whether alpha lipoic acid (ALA) promotes the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a rat model of optic nerve crush (ONC) injury and to investigate the neuroprotective mechanisms of ALA in the retina in this ONC injury model. METHODS Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (180-220 g) were subjected to ONC injury surgery. ALA (63 mg/kg) was injected intravenously 1 day before or after the ONC injury. Animals were euthanized after 10 days, and the number of ganglion cells positive for RNA-binding protein with multiple splicing (Rbpms), which is an RGC marker, were counted on the whole mount retinas. In addition, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting were performed to examine the localization and levels of erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) and neurotrophin-4/5 (NT4/5) in the retinas in all experimental groups. To determine whether the EPO/EPOR signaling pathway was involved in the ALA antioxidant pathway, the rats were subjected to ruxolitinib (INCB018424, 0.25 mg/kg, bid, intraperitoneal, i.p.) treatment after the animals were injected intravenously with ALA 1 day before ONC injury. RESULTS The average number of Rbpms-positive cells/mm2 in the control group (sham-operated group), the ONC group, the ALA-ONC group, and the ONC-ALA group retinas was 2219±28, 418±8, 848±22, and 613±18/mm2, respectively. The ALA-ONC and ONC-ALA groups showed a statistically significantly increased RGC survival rate compared to the ONC group. There were statistical differences in the RGC survival rates between the ALA-ONC (39%) and ONC-ALA groups (28%; p<0.05). Immunofluorescent labeling showed that EPOR and NT4/5 expression was significant in the retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL). At the same time, western blot analysis revealed that ALA induced upregulation of EPOR protein and NT4/5 protein expression in the retina after ONC injury. However, INCB018424 reversed the protective effects of ALA on the ONC retinas. CONCLUSIONS ALA has neuroprotective effects on RGCs after ONC injury. Moreover, prophylactic administration of ALA may have a stronger neuroprotective effect against ONC-induced damage. Based on these data, we also conclude that the endogenous EPO/EPOR signaling pathway may contribute to the protective effects of ALA in the retina after ONC injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixing Liu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory on Machine Perception (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory for Visual Impairment and Restoration (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanling Wang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory on Machine Perception (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory for Visual Impairment and Restoration (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingliang Pu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory on Machine Perception (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory for Visual Impairment and Restoration (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory on Machine Perception (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory for Visual Impairment and Restoration (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China
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Foldvari M, Chen DW. The intricacies of neurotrophic factor therapy for retinal ganglion cell rescue in glaucoma: a case for gene therapy. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:875-7. [PMID: 27482199 PMCID: PMC4962568 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.184448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Regeneration of damaged retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and their axons is an important aspect of reversing vision loss in glaucoma patients. While current therapies can effectively lower intraocular pressure, they do not provide extrinsic support to RGCs to actively aid in their protection and regeneration. The unmet need could be addressed by neurotrophic factor gene therapy, where plasmid DNA, encoding neurotrophic factors, is delivered to retinal cells to maintain sufficient levels of neurotrophins in the retina. In this review, we aim to describe the intricacies in the design of the therapy including: the choice of neurotrophic factor, the site and route of administration and target cell populations for gene delivery. Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges currently being faced in RGC-related therapy development with special considerations to the existence of multiple RGC subtypes and the lack of efficient and representative in vitro models for rapid and reliable screening in the drug development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Foldvari
- School of Pharmacy, Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Ding Wen Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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Shao WY, Liu X, Gu XL, Ying X, Wu N, Xu HW, Wang Y. Promotion of axon regeneration and inhibition of astrocyte activation by alpha A-crystallin on crushed optic nerve. Int J Ophthalmol 2016; 9:955-66. [PMID: 27500100 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2016.07.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore the effects of αA-crystallin in astrocyte gliosis after optic nerve crush (ONC) and the mechanism of α-crystallin in neuroprotection and axon regeneration. METHODS ONC was established on the Sprague-Dawley rat model and αA-crystallin (10(-4) g/L, 4 µL) was intravitreously injected into the rat model. Flash-visual evoked potential (F-VEP) was examined 14d after ONC, and the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels in the retina and crush site were analyzed 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14d after ONC by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot respectively. The levels of beta Tubulin (TUJ1), growth-associated membrane phosphoprotein-43 (GAP-43), chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) and neurocan were also determined by IHC 14d after ONC. RESULTS GFAP level in the retina and the optic nerve significantly increased 1d after ONC, and reached the peak level 7d post-ONC. Injection of αA-crystallin significantly decreased GFAP level in both the retina and the crush site 3d after ONC, and induced astrocytes architecture remodeling at the crush site. Quantification of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons indicated αA-crystallin markedly promoted axon regeneration in ONC rats and enhanced the regenerated axons penetrated into the glial scar. CSPGs and neurocan expression also decreased 14d after αA-crystallin injection. The amplitude (N1-P1) and latency (P1) of F-VEP were also restored. CONCLUSION Our results suggest α-crystallin promotes the axon regeneration of RGCs and suppresses the activation of astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Yang Shao
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xian-Liang Gu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xi Ying
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Hai-Wei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
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Ye EA, Chawla SS, Khan MZ, Sakaguchi DS. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) stimulate neurite outgrowth from differentiating adult hippocampal progenitor cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.7243/2054-717x-3-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Dekeyster E, Geeraerts E, Buyens T, Van den Haute C, Baekelandt V, De Groef L, Salinas-Navarro M, Moons L. Tackling Glaucoma from within the Brain: An Unfortunate Interplay of BDNF and TrkB. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142067. [PMID: 26560713 PMCID: PMC4641732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the neurotrophin deprivation hypothesis, diminished retrograde delivery of neurotrophic support during an early stage of glaucoma pathogenesis is one of the main triggers that induce retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration. Therefore, interfering with neurotrophic signaling seems an attractive strategy to achieve neuroprotection. Indeed, exogenous neurotrophin administration to the eye has been shown to reduce loss of RGCs in animal models of glaucoma; however, the neuroprotective effect was mostly insufficient for sustained RGC survival. We hypothesized that treatment at the level of neurotrophin-releasing brain areas might be beneficial, as signaling pathways activated by target-derived neurotrophins are suggested to differ from pathways that are initiated at the soma membrane. In our study, first, the spatiotemporal course of RGC degeneration was characterized in mice subjected to optic nerve crush (ONC) or laser induced ocular hypertension (OHT). Subsequently, the well-known neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was chosen as the lead molecule, and the levels of BDNF and its high-affinity receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), were examined in the mouse retina and superior colliculus (SC) upon ONC and OHT. Both models differentially influenced BDNF and TrkB levels. Next, we aimed for RGC protection through viral vector-mediated upregulation of collicular BDNF, thought to boost the retrograde neurotrophin delivery. Although the previously reported temporary neuroprotective effect of intravitreally delivered recombinant BDNF was confirmed, viral vector-induced BDNF overexpression in the SC did not result in protection of the RGCs in the glaucoma models used. These findings most likely relate to decreased neurotrophin responsiveness upon vector-mediated BDNF overexpression. Our results highlight important insights concerning the complexity of neurotrophic factor treatments that should surely be considered in future neuroprotective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Dekeyster
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emiel Geeraerts
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Buyens
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Research Group, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Viral Vector Core, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Research Group, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuel Salinas-Navarro
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Levkovitch-Verbin H. Retinal ganglion cell apoptotic pathway in glaucoma: Initiating and downstream mechanisms. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 220:37-57. [PMID: 26497784 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma causes progressive visual field loss, making it the primary cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Elevated intraocular pressure and aging, the main risk factors for glaucoma, accelerate RGC apoptosis. Numerous pathways and mechanisms were found to be involved in RGC death in glaucoma. Neurotrophic factors deprivation is an early event. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, glial cell dysfunction, and activation of apoptotic pathways and prosurvival pathways play a significant role in RGC death in glaucoma. The most important among the involved pathways are the MAP-kinase pathway, PI-3 kinase/Akt pathway, Bcl-2 family, caspase family, and IAP family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Levkovitch-Verbin
- Glaucoma Service, Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
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Jang H, Choi Y, Ahn HR, Jung SH, Lee CY. Effects of phenolic acid metabolites formed after chlorogenic acid consumption on retinal degeneration in vivo. Mol Nutr Food Res 2015; 59:1918-29. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201400897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Holim Jang
- Department of Food Science; Cornell University; Ithaca NY USA
- Natural Products Research Center; Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); Gangneung Republic of Korea
| | - Yongsoo Choi
- Natural Products Research Center; Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); Gangneung Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Ryul Ahn
- Natural Products Research Center; Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); Gangneung Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Jung
- Natural Products Research Center; Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); Gangneung Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Yong Lee
- Department of Food Science; Cornell University; Ithaca NY USA
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The Acquisition of Target Dependence by Developing Rat Retinal Ganglion Cells. eNeuro 2015; 2:eN-NWR-0044-14. [PMID: 26464991 PMCID: PMC4586937 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0044-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Similar to neurons in the peripheral nervous system, immature CNS-derived RGCs become dependent on target-derived neurotrophic support as their axons reach termination sites in the brain. To study the factors that influence this developmental transition we took advantage of the fact that rat RGCs are born, and target innervation occurs, over a protracted period of time. Early-born RGCs have axons in the SC by birth (P0), whereas axons from late-born RGCs do not innervate the SC until P4-P5. Birth dating RGCs using EdU allowed us to identify RGCs (1) with axons still growing toward targets, (2) transitioning to target dependence, and (3) entirely dependent on target-derived support. Using laser-capture microdissection we isolated ∼34,000 EdU+ RGCs and analyzed transcript expression by custom qPCR array. Statistical analyses revealed a difference in gene expression profiles in actively growing RGCs compared with target-dependent RGCs, as well as in transitional versus target-dependent RGCs. Prior to innervation RGCs expressed high levels of BDNF and CNTFR α but lower levels of neurexin 1 mRNA. Analysis also revealed greater expression of transcripts for signaling molecules such as MAPK, Akt, CREB, and STAT. In a supporting in vitro study, purified birth-dated P1 RGCs were cultured for 24-48 h with or without BDNF; lack of BDNF resulted in significant loss of early-born but not late-born RGCs. In summary, we identified several important changes in RGC signaling that may form the basis for the switch from target independence to dependence.
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Fang J, Jiang F, Li J, Zhu Y. Rationale for the use of multifunctional drugs as neuroprotective agents for glaucoma. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:313-8. [PMID: 25806075 PMCID: PMC4353106 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, the leading cause globally of irreversible blindness, is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive retinal ganglion cell death. To date, no drug has been shown to prevent the retinal ganglion cell loss associated with glaucoma. Multiple mechanisms lead to ganglion cell death in glaucoma, suggesting that a neuroprotectant that has a single mode of action, like memantine, would have a limited positive effect at slowing down ganglion cell death. Conversely, simultaneously targeting several factors may be the best therapeutic approach to improve outcomes. Multifunctional drugs are fast gaining acceptance as a strategy for the treatment of complex disorders of the central nervous system, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and other progressive neurodegenerative diseases. In this paper, we review the current literature on multifunctional drugs and propose a rationale for the use of multifunctional drugs in glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahua Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First Hospital, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Fagang Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jingbo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First Hospital, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yanhua Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jingzhou First Hospital, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, Hubei Province, China
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Contribution of microglia-mediated neuroinflammation to retinal degenerative diseases. Mediators Inflamm 2015; 2015:673090. [PMID: 25873768 PMCID: PMC4385698 DOI: 10.1155/2015/673090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are major causes of vision loss and blindness worldwide and are characterized by chronic and progressive neuronal loss. One common feature of retinal degenerative diseases and brain neurodegenerative diseases is chronic neuroinflammation. There is growing evidence that retinal microglia, as in the brain, become activated in the course of retinal degenerative diseases, having a pivotal role in the initiation and propagation of the neurodegenerative process. A better understanding of the events elicited and mediated by retinal microglia will contribute to the clarification of disease etiology and might open new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions. This review aims at giving an overview of the roles of microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in major retinal degenerative diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
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Liu Y, Xu X, Tang R, Chen G, Lei X, Gao L, Li W, Chen Y. Viability of primary cultured retinal neurons in a hyperglycemic condition. Neural Regen Res 2014; 8:410-9. [PMID: 25206682 PMCID: PMC4146128 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina of Wistar rats within 1-3 days of birth were dissociated into a retinal cell suspension using 0.05% trypsin digestion. The cell suspension was incubated in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium for 24 hours, followed by neurobasal medium for 5-7 days. Nissl staining showed that 79.86% of primary cultured retinal cells were positive and immunocytochemical staining showed that the purity of anti-neurofilament heavy chain antibody-positive cells was 71.53%, indicating that the primary culture system of rat retinal neurons was a reliable and stable cell system with neurons as the predominant cell type. The primary cultured retinal neurons were further treated with 0, 5.5, 15, 25, and 35 mM glucose for 24, 48, and 72 hours. The thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide test and flow cytometry showed that with increasing glucose concentration and treatment duration, the viability of retinal neurons was reduced, and apoptosis increased. In particular, 35 mM glucose exhibited the most significant effect at 72 hours. Thus, rat retinal neurons treated with 35 mM glucose for 72 hours can be used to simulate a neuronal model of diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xueliang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Renhong Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Guoping Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiang Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Limo Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
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Guzman-Aranguez A, Loma P, Pintor J. Small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) as a promising tool for ocular therapy. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 170:730-47. [PMID: 23937539 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) can be used to inhibit the expression of specific genes in vitro and in vivo, thereby providing an extremely useful tool for investigating gene function. Progress in the understanding of RNAi-based mechanisms has opened up new perspectives in therapeutics for the treatment of several diseases including ocular disorders. The eye is currently considered a good target for RNAi therapy mainly because it is a confined compartment and, therefore, enables local delivery of small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) by topical instillation or direct injection. However, delivery strategies that protect the siRNAs from degradation and are suitable for long-term treatment would be help to improve the efficacy of RNAi-based therapies for ocular pathologies. siRNAs targeting critical molecules involved in the pathogenesis of glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa and neovascular eye diseases (age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and corneal neovascularization) have been tested in experimental animal models, and clinical trials have been conducted with some of them. This review provides an update on the progress of RNAi in ocular therapeutics, discussing the advantages and drawbacks of RNAi-based therapeutics compared to previous treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Guzman-Aranguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology IV, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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