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Tahmasebi Sarvestani M, Chidlow G, Wood JP, Casson RJ. Effects of slit lamp-delivered retinal laser photobiomodulation in a rat model of choroidal neovascularization. Exp Eye Res 2024; 244:109909. [PMID: 38710357 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109909] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration, also known as exudative or wet age-related macular degeneration, is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Photobiomodulation has the potential to target the up-stream hypoxic and pro-inflammatory drivers of choroidal neovascularization. This study investigated whether photobiomodulation attenuates characteristic pathological features of choroidal neovascularization in a rodent model. Experimental choroidal neovascularization was induced in Brown Norway rats with laser photocoagulation. A custom-designed, slit-lamp-mounted, 670 nm laser was used to administer retinal photobiomodulation every 3 days, beginning 6 days prior to choroidal neovascularization induction and continuing until the animals were killed 14 days later. The effect of photobiomodulation on the size of choroidal neovascular membranes was determined using isolectin-B4 immunohistochemistry and spectral domain-optical coherence tomography. Vascular leakage was determined with fluorescein angiography. The effect of treatment on levels of vascular endothelial growth factor expression was quantified with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Treatment with photobiomodulation was associated with choroidal neovascular membranes that were smaller, had less fluorescein leakage, and a diminished presence of inflammatory cells as compared to sham eyes. These effects were not associated with a statistically significant difference in the level of vascular endothelial growth factor when compared to sham eyes. The data shown herein indicate that photobiomodulation attenuates pathological features of choroidal neovascularization in a rodent model by mechanisms that may be independent of vascular endothelial growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Glyn Chidlow
- Ophthalmic Research Laboratory, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - John P Wood
- Ophthalmic Research Laboratory, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert J Casson
- Ophthalmic Research Laboratory, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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2
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Zhu M, Liu Y, Fang D, Li M, Fu T, Yao K, Wang P, Sun X, Xiang Y. Safety of repeated low-level red-light therapy for children with myopia. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2024; 47:104198. [PMID: 38729232 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2024.104198] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUD To investigate the safety of repetitive low-level red-light therapy (RLRLT) in children with myopia. METHODS Children with myopia were assigned to the RLRL and control groups. Axial length (AL) and spherical equivalent refraction (SER) were followed up at 3-, 6-, and 12-month. To evaluate the safety of RLRLT, at 6 and 12 months in the RLRL group, multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and contrast sensitivity were recorded. Furthermore, optical coherence tomography was used to measure the relative reflectance of the ellipsoid zone (rEZR), photoreceptor outer segment (rPOSR), and retinal pigment epithelium (rRPER). RESULTS A total of 108 children completed the trial (55 in the RLRL group and 53 in the control group). After 3, 6, and 12 months, AL was shorter and SER less myopic in the RLRL group than in the control group. Regarding the safety of the RLRLT, the response density and amplitude of the P1 wave of the first ring of the mfERG increased significantly at 6 months (P = 0.001 and P = 0.017, respectively). At 6 and 12 months, contrast sensitivity at the high spatial frequency increased. Moreover, the rEZR increased significantly at 6 months (P = 0.029), the rPOSR increased significantly at 6 and 12 months (both P < 0.001), and the increase in rPOSR was greater with greater AL regression. CONCLUSIONS Based on retinal function and structure follow-up, RLRLT was safe within 12 months. However, rEZR and rPOSR increased, the effects of this phenomenon requires further observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxia Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dengqin Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Mu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ting Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - KeJun Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xufang Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yan Xiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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3
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Huang JM, Zhao N, Hao XN, Li SY, Wei D, Pu N, Peng GH, Tao Y. CX3CL1/CX3CR1 Signaling Mediated Neuroglia Activation Is Implicated in the Retinal Degeneration: A Potential Therapeutic Target to Prevent Photoreceptor Death. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:29. [PMID: 38231527 PMCID: PMC10795588 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.1.29] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal degeneration (RD) is a large cluster of retinopathies that is characterized by the progressive photoreceptor death and visual impairments. CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling has been documented to mediate the microglia activation and gliosis reaction during neurodegeneration. We intend to verify whether the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling is involved in the RD pathology. Methods A pharmacologically induced RD mice model was established. AZD8797, a CX3CR1 antagonist, was injected into the vitreous cavity of an RD model to modulate the neuroglia activation. Then, the experimental animals were subjected to functional, morphological, and behavioral analysis. Results The CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling mediated neuroglia activation was implicated in the photoreceptor demise of an RD model. Intravitreal injection of AZD8797 preserved the retinal structure and enhanced the photoreceptor survival through inhibiting the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 expressions. Fundus photography showed that the distribution of retinal vessel was clear, and the severity of lesions was alleviated by AZD8797. In particular, these morphological benefits could be translated into remarkable functional improvements, as evidenced by the behavioral test and electroretinogram (mf-ERG) examination. A mechanism study showed that AZD8797 mitigated the microglia activation and migration in the degenerative retinas. The Müller cell hyper-reaction and secondary gliosis response were also suppressed by AZD8797. Conclusions The neuroinflammation is implicated in the photoreceptor loss of RD pathology. Targeting the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling may serve as an effective therapeutic strategy. Future refinements of these findings may cast light into the discovery of new medications for RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Min Huang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Na Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Na Hao
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Si-Yu Li
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ning Pu
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Hua Peng
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ye Tao
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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4
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Zhang CX, Lou Y, Chi J, Bao XL, Fan B, Li GY. Considerations for the Use of Photobiomodulation in the Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121811. [PMID: 36551239 PMCID: PMC9775242 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Photobiomodulation (PBM) refers to the beneficial effect produced from low-energy light irradiation on target cells or tissues. Increasing evidence in the literature suggests that PBM plays a positive role in the treatment of retinal diseases. However, there is great variation in the light sources and illumination parameters used in different studies, resulting in significantly different conclusions regarding PBM's therapeutic effects. In addition, the mechanism by which PBM improves retinal function has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we conducted a narrative review of the published literature on PBM for treating retinal diseases and summarized the key illumination parameters used in PBM. Furthermore, we explored the potential molecular mechanisms of PBM at the retinal cellular level with the goal of providing evidence for the improved utilization of PBM in the treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Xia Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
| | - Yan Lou
- Department of Nephropathy, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
| | - Jing Chi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
| | - Xiao-Li Bao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
| | - Bin Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
- Correspondence: (B.F.); (G.-Y.L.)
| | - Guang-Yu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130042, China
- Correspondence: (B.F.); (G.-Y.L.)
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5
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Di Paolo M. Sequential PBM-Saffron Treatment in an Animal Model of Retinal Degeneration. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:1059. [PMID: 34684096 PMCID: PMC8538989 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57101059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Saffron treatment and photobiomodulation (PBM) are non-invasive therapeutic approaches able to mitigate and stabilize retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although different, these therapies partially match their modulated pattern of genes. Recent attempts to find an additive effect by coadministration of saffron and PBM have failed. Instead, in this study, a different protocol to increase neuroprotection by providing consecutive saffron and PBM treatment administration is suggested. Materials and Methods: Albino rats, whose retinal damage was caused by light exposure (LD, light damage), were subjected to differential treatment protocols before and after LD: (1) PBM followed by saffron; and (2) single treatments of PBM. Thinning of the photoreceptor layer and neuro-inflammatory markers for gliosis and microglia were assessed via immune-histochemical techniques. Results: Results confirm that PBM and saffron alone cope with retinal neurodegenerative processes, preserving retinal thickness and gliosis and microglia invasion in a differential way. However, the synergistic effect of the combined treatment was restricted to the early neuroinflammation, even when provided sequentially. Conclusion: The broad spectra of action of both neuroprotectants require further investigation to identify other key pathways helpful in enhancing the effects of these two approaches in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno, 6, 56121 Pisa, Italy;
- Interuniversity Consortium Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, Via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of l’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 1, 67100 l’Aquila, Italy
- Bio Aurum srl, Via Mangionello, 12, 73024 Maglie, Italy
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Red Light Irradiation In Vivo Upregulates DJ-1 in the Retinal Ganglion Cell Layer and Protects against Axotomy-Related Dendritic Pruning. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168380. [PMID: 34445085 PMCID: PMC8395066 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) undergo dendritic pruning in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, including glaucoma and autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA). Axotomising RGCs by severing the optic nerve generates an acute model of RGC dendropathy, which can be utilized to assess the therapeutic potential of treatments for RGC degeneration. Photobiomodulation (PBM) with red light provided neuroprotection to RGCs when administered ex vivo to wild-type retinal explants. In the current study, we used aged (13–15-month-old) wild-type and heterozygous B6;C3-Opa1Q285STOP (Opa1+/−) mice, a model of ADOA exhibiting RGC dendropathy. These mice were pre-treated with 4 J/cm2 of 670 nm light for five consecutive days before the eyes were enucleated and the retinas flat-mounted into explant cultures for 0-, 8- or 16-h ex vivo. RGCs were imaged by confocal microscopy, and their dendritic architecture was quantified by Sholl analysis. In vivo 670 nm light pretreatment inhibited the RGC dendropathy observed in untreated wild-type retinas over 16 h ex vivo and inhibited dendropathy in ON-center RGCs in wild-type but not Opa1+/− retinas. Immunohistochemistry revealed that aged Opa1+/− RGCs exhibited increased nitrosative damage alongside significantly lower activation of NF-κB and upregulation of DJ-1. PBM restored NF-κB activation in Opa1+/− RGCs and enhanced DJ-1 expression in both genotypes, indicating a potential molecular mechanism priming the retina to resist future oxidative insult. These data support the potential of PBM as a treatment for diseases involving RGC degeneration.
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Yoon SR, Hong N, Lee MY, Ahn JC. Photobiomodulation with a 660-Nanometer Light-Emitting Diode Promotes Cell Proliferation in Astrocyte Culture. Cells 2021; 10:1664. [PMID: 34359834 PMCID: PMC8307591 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes act as neural stem cells (NSCs) that have the potential to self-renew and differentiate into other neuronal cells. The protein expression of these astrocytes depends on the stage of differentiation, showing sequential expression of multiple proteins such as octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4), nestin, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member L1 (aldh1L1). Photobiomodulation (PBM) affects cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and adhesion. We hypothesized that astrocyte proliferation and differentiation would be modulated by PBM. We used an optimized astrocyte culture method and a 660-nanometer light-emitting diode (LED) to enhance the biological actions of many kinds of cells. We determined that the 660-nanometer LED promoted the biological actions of cultured astrocytes by increasing the reactive oxygen species levels. The overall viability of the cultured cells, which included various cells other than astrocytes, did not change after LED exposure; however, astrocyte-specific proliferation was observed by the increased co-expression of GFAP and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)/Ki67. Furthermore, the 660-nanometer LED provides evidence of differentiation, as shown by the decreased Oct4 and GFAP co-expression and increased nestin and aldh1L1 expression. These results demonstrate that a 660-nanometer LED can modify astrocyte proliferation, which suggests the efficacy of the therapeutic application of LED in various pathological states of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Ryeong Yoon
- Department of Medical Laser, Graduate School of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea;
- Medical Laser Research Center, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea;
| | - Namgue Hong
- Medical Laser Research Center, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea;
| | - Min-Young Lee
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
- Beckman Laser Institute Korea, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Jin-Chul Ahn
- Department of Medical Laser, Graduate School of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea;
- Medical Laser Research Center, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea;
- Beckman Laser Institute Korea, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
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8
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Ng WSV, Trigano M, Freeman T, Varrichio C, Kandaswamy DK, Newland B, Brancale A, Rozanowska M, Votruba M. New avenues for therapy in mitochondrial optic neuropathies. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2021; 2:26330040211029037. [PMID: 37181108 PMCID: PMC10032437 DOI: 10.1177/26330040211029037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial optic neuropathies are a group of optic nerve atrophies exemplified by the two commonest conditions in this group, autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA) and Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). Their clinical features comprise reduced visual acuity, colour vision deficits, centro-caecal scotomas and optic disc pallor with thinning of the retinal nerve fibre layer. The primary aetiology is genetic, with underlying nuclear or mitochondrial gene mutations. The primary pathology is owing to retinal ganglion cell dysfunction and degeneration. There is currently only one approved treatment and no curative therapy is available. In this review we summarise the genetic and clinical features of ADOA and LHON and then examine what new avenues there may be for therapeutic intervention. The therapeutic strategies to manage LHON and ADOA can be split into four categories: prevention, compensation, replacement and repair. Prevention is technically an option by modifying risk factors such as smoking cessation, or by utilising pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, although this is unlikely to be applied in mitochondrial optic neuropathies due to the non-life threatening and variable nature of these conditions. Compensation involves pharmacological interventions that ameliorate the mitochondrial dysfunction at a cellular and tissue level. Replacement and repair are exciting new emerging areas. Clinical trials, both published and underway, in this area are likely to reveal future potential benefits, since new therapies are desperately needed. Plain language summary Optic nerve damage leading to loss of vision can be caused by a variety of insults. One group of conditions leading to optic nerve damage is caused by defects in genes that are essential for cells to make energy in small organelles called mitochondria. These conditions are known as mitochondrial optic neuropathies and two predominant examples are called autosomal dominant optic atrophy and Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. Both conditions are caused by problems with the energy powerhouse of cells: mitochondria. The cells that are most vulnerable to this mitochondrial malfunction are called retinal ganglion cells, otherwise collectively known as the optic nerve, and they take the electrical impulse from the retina in the eye to the brain. The malfunction leads to death of some of the optic nerve cells, the degree of vision loss being linked to the number of those cells which are impacted in this way. Patients will lose visual acuity and colour vision and develop a central blind spot in their field of vision. There is currently no cure and very few treatment options. New treatments are desperately needed for patients affected by these devastating diseases. New treatments can potentially arise in four ways: prevention, compensation, replacement and repair of the defects. Here we explore how present and possible future treatments might provide hope for those suffering from these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthieu Trigano
- Mitochondria and Vision Lab, School of
Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Thomas Freeman
- Mitochondria and Vision Lab, School of
Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Carmine Varrichio
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences,
Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dinesh Kumar Kandaswamy
- Mitochondria and Vision Lab, School of
Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Ben Newland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences,
Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Andrea Brancale
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences,
Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Malgorzata Rozanowska
- Mitochondria and Vision Lab, School of
Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Marcela Votruba
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences,
Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK; Cardiff Eye
Unit, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
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9
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Jin M, Li X, Yan F, Chen W, Jiang L, Zhang X. The effects of low-color-temperature dual-primary-color light-emitting diodes on three kinds of retinal cells. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2020; 214:112099. [PMID: 33285486 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2020.112099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Long-term illumination of the retina with blue-light-excited phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (LEDs) may result in decreased retinal function, even if the levels of blue light emitted are low. New low-color-temperature dual-primary-color LEDs have been developed that are composed of only two LED chips: a red chip and a yellow chip. These LEDs are expected to become a new type of healthy lighting source because they do not emit blue light, they lack phosphor, and they solve the problem of low efficiency encountered with phosphor-converted low-color-temperature LEDs. Many studies have indicated that these new low-color-temperature LEDs are likely to have therapeutic effects. However, the biological safety of these LEDs needs to be explored before the therapeutic effects are explored. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of the new low-color-temperature LEDs and fluorescent white LEDs on three types of retinal cells. We observed that the viability and numbers of retinal cells decreased gradually with increasing LED color temperature. The new low-color-temperature LEDs caused less death and adverse effects on proliferation than the fluorescent white LEDs. After irradiation with high-color-temperature LEDs, the expression of Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) was decreased and discontinuous in ARPE-19 cells; the stress protein hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) was upregulated in R28 cells; and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin were upregulated in rMC-1 cells. We therefore conclude that the new white LEDs cause almost no damage to retinal cells and reduce the potential human health risks of chronic exposure to fluorescent white LEDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Jin
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, 463 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Xiongfeng Li
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, 463 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, 463 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Weixin Chen
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, 463 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Queen Mary School of Nanchang University, 461 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330046, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, 463 Bayi Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China.
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10
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Maya-Vetencourt JF, Di Marco S, Mete M, Di Paolo M, Ventrella D, Barone F, Elmi A, Manfredi G, Desii A, Sannita WG, Bisti S, Lanzani G, Pertile G, Bacci ML, Benfenati F. Biocompatibility of a Conjugated Polymer Retinal Prosthesis in the Domestic Pig. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:579141. [PMID: 33195139 PMCID: PMC7605258 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.579141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The progressive degeneration of retinal photoreceptors is one of the most significant causes of blindness in humans. Conjugated polymers represent an attractive solution to the field of retinal prostheses, and a multi-layer fully organic prosthesis implanted subretinally in dystrophic Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats was able to rescue visual functions. As a step toward human translation, we report here the fabrication and in vivo testing of a similar device engineered to adapt to the human-like size of the eye of the domestic pig, an excellent animal paradigm to test therapeutic strategies for photoreceptors degeneration. The active conjugated polymers were layered onto two distinct passive substrates, namely electro-spun silk fibroin (ESF) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Naive pigs were implanted subretinally with the active device in one eye, while the contralateral eye was sham implanted with substrate only. Retinal morphology and functionality were assessed before and after surgery by means of in vivo optical coherence tomography and full-field electroretinogram (ff-ERG) analysis. After the sacrifice, the retina morphology and inflammatory markers were analyzed by immunohistochemistry of the excised retinas. Surprisingly, ESF-based prostheses caused a proliferative vitreoretinopathy with disappearance of the ff-ERG b-wave in the implanted eyes. In contrast, PET-based active devices did not evoke significant inflammatory responses. As expected, the subretinal implantation of both PET only and the PET-based prosthesis locally decreased the thickness of the outer nuclear layer due to local photoreceptor loss. However, while the implantation of the PET only substrate decreased the ff-ERG b-wave amplitude with respect to the pre-implant ERG, the eyes implanted with the active device fully preserved the ERG responses, indicating an active compensation of the surgery-induced photoreceptor loss. Our findings highlight the possibility of developing a new generation of conjugated polymer/PET-based prosthetic devices that are highly biocompatible and potentially suitable for subretinal implantation in patients suffering from degenerative blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fernando Maya-Vetencourt
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mete
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Domenico Ventrella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Barone
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Elmi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Manfredi
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Desii
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Walter G Sannita
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario INBB, Rome, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Bacci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy
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11
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Shen W, Teo KYC, Wood JPM, Vaze A, Chidlow G, Ao J, Lee SR, Yam MX, Cornish EE, Fraser-Bell S, Casson RJ, Gillies MC. Preclinical and clinical studies of photobiomodulation therapy for macular oedema. Diabetologia 2020; 63:1900-1915. [PMID: 32661752 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-020-05189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Diabetic macular oedema (DME) is the leading cause of visual impairment in people with diabetes. Intravitreal injections of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors or corticosteroids prevent loss of vision by reducing DME, but the injections must be given frequently and usually for years. Here we report laboratory and clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of 670 nm photobiomodulation (PBM) for treatment of centre-involving DME. METHODS The therapeutic effect of PBM delivered via a light-emitting diode (LED) device was tested in transgenic mice in which induced Müller cell disruption led to photoreceptor degeneration and retinal vascular leakage. We also developed a purpose-built 670 nm retinal laser for PBM to treat DME in humans. The effect of laser-delivered PBM on improving mitochondrial function and protecting against oxidative stress was studied in cultured rat Müller cells and its safety was studied in pigmented and non-pigmented rat eyes. We then used the retinal laser to perform PBM in an open-label, dose-escalation Phase IIa clinical trial involving 21 patients with centre-involving DME. Patients received 12 sessions of PBM over 5 weeks for 90 s per treatment at a setting of 25, 100 or 200 mW/cm2 for the three sequential cohorts of 6-8 patients each. Patients were recruited from the Sydney Eye Hospital, over the age of 18 and had centre-involving DME with central macular thickness (CMT) of >300 μm with visual acuity of 75-35 Log minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) letters (Snellen visual acuity equivalent of 20/30-20/200). The objective of this trial was to assess the safety and efficacy of laser-delivered PBM at 2 and 6 months. The primary efficacy outcome was change in CMT at 2 and 6 months. RESULTS LED-delivered PBM enhanced photoreceptor mitochondrial membrane potential, protected Müller cells and photoreceptors from damage and reduced retinal vascular leakage resulting from induced Müller cell disruption in transgenic mice. PBM delivered via the retinal laser enhanced mitochondrial function and protected against oxidative stress in cultured Müller cells. Laser-delivered PBM did not damage the retina in pigmented rat eyes at 100 mW/cm2. The completed clinical trial found a significant reduction in CMT at 2 months by 59 ± 46 μm (p = 0.03 at 200 mW/cm2) and significant reduction at all three settings at 6 months (25 mW/cm2: 53 ± 24 μm, p = 0.04; 100 mW/cm2: 129 ± 51 μm, p < 0.01; 200 mW/cm2: 114 ± 60 μm, p < 0.01). Laser-delivered PBM was well tolerated in humans at settings up to 200 mW/cm2 with no significant side effects. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION PBM results in anatomical improvement of DME over 6 months and may represent a safe and non-invasive treatment. Further testing is warranted in randomised clinical trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02181400 Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyong Shen
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Kelvin Yi Chong Teo
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - John P M Wood
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Anagha Vaze
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Glyn Chidlow
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Jack Ao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - So-Ra Lee
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Michelle X Yam
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Elisa E Cornish
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Samantha Fraser-Bell
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Robert J Casson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
| | - Mark C Gillies
- Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
- Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
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12
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Wooff Y, Cioanca AV, Chu-Tan JA, Aggio-Bruce R, Schumann U, Natoli R. Small-Medium Extracellular Vesicles and Their miRNA Cargo in Retinal Health and Degeneration: Mediators of Homeostasis, and Vehicles for Targeted Gene Therapy. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:160. [PMID: 32670023 PMCID: PMC7330137 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor cell death and inflammation are known to occur progressively in retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these biological processes are largely unknown. Extracellular vesicles (EV) are essential mediators of cell-to-cell communication with emerging roles in the modulation of immune responses. EVs, including exosomes, encapsulate and transfer microRNA (miRNA) to recipient cells and in this way can modulate the environment of recipient cells. Dysregulation of EVs however is correlated to a loss of cellular homeostasis and increased inflammation. In this work we investigated the role of isolated retinal small-medium sized EV (s-mEV) which includes exosomes in both the healthy and degenerating retina. Isolated s-mEV from normal retinas were characterized using dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy and western blotting, and quantified across 5 days of photo-oxidative damage-induced degeneration using nanotracking analysis. Small RNAseq was used to characterize the miRNA cargo of retinal s-mEV isolated from healthy and damaged retinas. Finally, the effect of exosome inhibition on cell-to-cell miRNA transfer and immune modulation was conducted using systemic daily administration of exosome inhibitor GW4869 and in situ hybridization of s-mEV-abundant miRNA, miR-124-3p. Electroretinography and immunohistochemistry was performed to assess functional and morphological changes to the retina as a result of GW4869-induced exosome depletion. Results demonstrated an inverse correlation between s-mEV concentration and photoreceptor survivability, with a decrease in s-mEV numbers following degeneration. Small RNAseq revealed that s-mEVs contained uniquely enriched miRNAs in comparison to in whole retinal tissue, however, there was no differential change in the s-mEV miRNAnome following photo-oxidative damage. Exosome inhibition via the use of GW4869 was also found to exacerbate retinal degeneration, with reduced retinal function and increased levels of inflammation and cell death demonstrated following photo-oxidative damage in exosome-inhibited mice. Further, GW4869-treated mice displayed impaired translocation of photoreceptor-derived miR-124-3p to the inner retina during damage. Taken together, we propose that retinal s-mEV and their miRNA cargo play an essential role in maintaining retinal homeostasis through immune-modulation, and have the potential to be used in targeted gene therapy for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Wooff
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,The ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Adrian V Cioanca
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Joshua A Chu-Tan
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,The ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Riemke Aggio-Bruce
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,The ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Ulrike Schumann
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Riccardo Natoli
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,The ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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13
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Photobiomodulation Mediates Neuroprotection against Blue Light Induced Retinal Photoreceptor Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072370. [PMID: 32235464 PMCID: PMC7177783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Potent neuroprotective effects of photobiomodulation with 670 nm red light (RL) have been demonstrated in several models of retinal disease. RL improves mitochondrial metabolism, reduces retinal inflammation and oxidative cell stress, showing its ability to enhance visual function. However, the current knowledge is limited to the main hypothesis that the respiratory chain complex IV, cytochrome c oxidase, serves as the primary target of RL. Here, we demonstrate a comprehensive cellular, molecular, and functional characterization of neuroprotective effects of 670 nm RL and 810 nm near-infrared light (NIRL) on blue light damaged murine primary photoreceptors. We show that respiratory chain complexes I and II are additional PBM targets, besides complex IV, leading to enhanced mitochondrial energy metabolism. Accordingly, our study identified mitochondria related RL- and NIRL-triggered defense mechanisms promoting photoreceptor neuroprotection. The observed improvement of mitochondrial and extramitochondrial respiration in both inner and outer segments is linked with reduced oxidative stress including its cellular consequences and reduced mitochondria-induced apoptosis. Analysis of regulatory mechanisms using gene expression analysis identified upregulation α-crystallins that indicate enhanced production of proteins with protective functions that point to the rescued mitochondrial function. The results support the hypothesis that energy metabolism is a major target for retinal light therapy.
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Caspase-1-dependent inflammasomes mediate photoreceptor cell death in photo-oxidative damage-induced retinal degeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2263. [PMID: 32041990 PMCID: PMC7010818 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58849-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the inflammasome is involved in the progression of retinal degenerative diseases, in particular, in the pathogenesis of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), with NLRP3 activation the focus of many investigations. In this study, we used genetic and pharmacological approaches to explore the role of the inflammasome in a mouse model of retinal degeneration. We identify that Casp1/11−/− mice have better-preserved retinal function, reduced inflammation and increased photoreceptor survivability. While Nlrp3−/− mice display some level of preservation of retinal function compared to controls, pharmacological inhibition of NLRP3 did not protect against photoreceptor cell death. Further, Aim2−/−, Nlrc4−/−, Asc−/−, and Casp11−/− mice show no substantial retinal protection. We propose that CASP-1-associated photoreceptor cell death occurs largely independently of NLRP3 and other established inflammasome sensor proteins, or that inhibition of a single sensor is not sufficient to repress the inflammatory cascade. Therapeutic targeting of CASP-1 may offer a more promising avenue to delay the progression of retinal degenerations.
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