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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Xia Y, Chen K, Yang Q, Chen Z, Jin L, Zhang L, Yu X, Wang L, Xie C, Zhao Y, Shen Y, Tong J. Methylation in cornea and corneal diseases: a systematic review. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:169. [PMID: 38589350 PMCID: PMC11002037 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01935-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases are among the primary causes of blindness and vision loss worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of corneal diseases remains elusive, and diagnostic and therapeutic tools are limited. Thus, identifying new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases has gained great interest. Methylation, a type of epigenetic modification, modulates various cellular processes at both nucleic acid and protein levels. Growing evidence shows that methylation is a key regulator in the pathogenesis of corneal diseases, including inflammation, fibrosis, and neovascularization, making it an attractive potential therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the major alterations of methylation and demethylation at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels in corneal diseases and how these dynamics contribute to the pathogenesis of corneal diseases. Also, we provide insights into identifying potential biomarkers of methylation that may improve the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Kuangqi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qianjie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhitong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Le Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyue Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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Zhu Z, Song J, Zhang C, Zhang J, Shan Z. Rapamycin alleviates irradiation-induced parotid injury by enhancing the whole gland homeostasis. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38569076 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Salivary gland injury is one of the most common complications of radiotherapy in head-and-neck cancers. This study investigated the mechanism by which rapamycin prevents irradiation (IR)-induced injury in the parotid glands. MATERIALS AND METHODS Miniature pigs either received (a) no treatment (NT), (b) IR in the right parotid gland for 5 consecutive days (IR), or intraperitoneal administration of rapamycin (Rap) 1 h prior to IR (IR + Rap). Tissues were collected at three distinct time points (24 h, 4 weeks, and 16 weeks) after IR. Histological analyses, western blot, and real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction were performed to explore the mechanisms of IR-induced injury in the parotid gland. RESULTS Rapamycin treatment maintained parotid salivary flow 16 weeks post-IR, preserved the number of acinar cells, and reduced parotid tissue fibrosis, as well as reduced apoptosis levels, decreased cleaved caspase-3 expression, and increased the Bcl-2/Bax ratio in the parotid glands. Autophagy marker LC3B was upregulated by rapamycin after IR, while P62 expression was downregulated. Rapamycin reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory factors and the mesenchymal tissue fibrosis following IR. CONCLUSIONS Rapamycin maintains gland homeostasis after IR by decreasing apoptosis, reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, and enhancing autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Zhu
- Outpatient Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxin Song
- Outpatient Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunmei Zhang
- Salivary Gland Disease Center and Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, Beijing Laboratory of Oral Health and Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Outpatient Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaochen Shan
- Outpatient Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Swamynathan S, Campbell G, Sohnen P, Kaur S, St. Leger AJ, Swamynathan SK. The Secreted Ly6/uPAR-Related Protein 1 (Slurp1) Modulates Corneal Angiogenic Inflammation Via NF-κB Signaling. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:37. [PMID: 38252525 PMCID: PMC10810026 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.1.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Previously we demonstrated that the secreted Ly-6/uPAR related protein 1 (SLURP1), abundantly expressed in the corneal epithelium (CE) and secreted into the tear fluid, serves as an antiangiogenic molecule. Here we describe the Slurp1-null (Slurp1X-/-) mouse corneal response to silver nitrate (AgNO3) cautery. Methods Five days after AgNO3 cautery, we compared the wild-type (WT) and Slurp1X-/- mouse (1) corneal neovascularization (CNV) and immune cell influx by whole-mount immunofluorescent staining for CD31 and CD45, (2) macrophage and neutrophil infiltration by flow cytometry, and (3) gene expression by quantitative RT-PCR. Quantitative RT-PCR, immunofluorescent staining, and immunoblots were employed to evaluate the expression, phosphorylation status, and subcellular localization of NF-κB pathway components. Results Unlike the WT, the Slurp1X-/- corneas displayed denser CNV in response to AgNO3 cautery, with more infiltrating macrophages and neutrophils and greater upregulation of the transcripts encoding VEGFA, MMP2, IL-1b, and vimentin. At 2, 7, and 10 days after AgNO3 cautery, Slurp1 expression was significantly downregulated in the WT corneas. Compared with the WT, naive Slurp1X-/- CE displayed increased phosphorylation of IKK(a/b), elevated phosphorylation of IκB with decreased amounts of total IκB, and higher phosphorylation of NF-κB, suggesting that NF-κB signaling is constitutively active in naive Slurp1X-/- corneas. Conclusions Enhanced angiogenic inflammation in AgNO3 cauterized Slurp1X-/- corneas and constitutively active status of NF-κB signaling in the absence of Slurp1 suggest that Slurp1 modulates corneal angiogenic inflammation via NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Gregory Campbell
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Peri Sohnen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Satinder Kaur
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Anthony J. St. Leger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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Abudahab S, Slattum PW, Price ET, McClay JL. Epigenetic regulation of drug metabolism in aging: utilizing epigenetics to optimize geriatric pharmacotherapy. Pharmacogenomics 2024; 25:41-54. [PMID: 38126340 PMCID: PMC10794944 DOI: 10.2217/pgs-2023-0199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We explore the relationship between epigenetic aging and drug metabolism. We review current evidence for changes in drug metabolism in normal aging, followed by a description of how epigenetic modifications associated with age can regulate the expression and functionality of genes. In particular, we focus on the role of epigenome-wide studies of human and mouse liver in understanding these age-related processes with respect to xenobiotic processing. We highlight genes encoding drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters revealed to be affected by epigenetic aging in these studies. We conclude that substantial evidence exists for epigenetic aging impacting drug metabolism and transport genes, but more work is needed. We further highlight the promise of pharmacoepigenetics applied to enhancing drug safety in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Abudahab
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Patricia W Slattum
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Virginia Center on Aging, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Elvin T Price
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Joseph L McClay
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
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Yan D, Ouyang W, Lin J, Liu Z. Smart coating by thermo-sensitive Pluronic F-127 for enhanced corneal healing via delivery of biological macromolecule progranulin. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127586. [PMID: 37866564 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127586] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
As a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness, corneal alkali burns lead to long-term visual deterioration or even permanent visual impairment while effective treatment strategies remain a challenge. Herein, a thermo-sensitive hydrogel with the combination of multi-functional protein progranulin (PGRN), a biological macromolecule consisting of several hundred amino acids and possessing a high molecular weight, is efficiently prepared through a convenient stirring and mixing at the low temperature. The hydrogel can be easily administrated to the ocular surface contacting with the cornea, which can be immediately transformed into gel-like state due to the thermo-responsive behavior, realizing a site-specific coating to isolate further external stimulation. The smart coating not only exhibits excellent transparency and biocompatibility, but also presents a constant delivery of PGRN, creating a nutritious and supportive micro-environment for the ocular surface. The results show that the prepared functional hydrogel can efficiently suppress inflammation, accelerate re-epithelization, and intriguingly enhance axonal regeneration via modulation of multiple signaling pathways, indicating the novel designed HydrogelPGRN is a promising therapy option for serious corneal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yan
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Weijie Ouyang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Jinyou Lin
- Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen University affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Fujian Engineering and Research Center of Eye Regenerative Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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Liu Q, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Fang Q, Liu W, Wu R, Wei G, Wei H, Du Y. Nanozyme-Cosmetic Contact Lenses for Ocular Surface Disease Prevention. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2305555. [PMID: 37584617 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Efficiently balancing excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by various factors on the ocular surface is a promising strategy for preventing the development of ocular surface diseases (OSDs). Nevertheless, the conventional topical administration of antioxidants is limited in efficacy due to poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and irreversible depletion, which impede their performance. To address this issue, contact lenses embedded with antioxidant nanozymes that can continuously scavenge ROS, thereby providing an excellent preventive effect against OSDs are developed. Specifically, Prussian blue family nanozymes are chosen based on their multiple antioxidant enzyme-like activities and excellent biocompatibility. The diverse range of colors made them promising candidates for the development of cosmetic contact lenses (CCLs) as a substitute for conventional pigments. The efficacy of nanozyme-CCLs is demonstrated in rabbits and rats exposed to a high risk of developing OSDs. These OSDs' prevention nanozyme-CCLs can pave the way for CCLs toward powerful wearable biomedical devices and provide novel strategies for the rational utilization of nanomaterials in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanyi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Sheng Zhao
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yihong Zhang
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Qi Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Wanling Liu
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Rong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Gen Wei
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Hui Wei
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Yan Du
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
- School of Applied Chemistry and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
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Li X, Chen K, Wang Z, Li J, Wang X, Xie C, Tong J, Shen Y. The mTOR signalling in corneal diseases: A recent update. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115620. [PMID: 37217140 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Corneal diseases affect 4.2 million people worldwide and are a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness. Current treatments for corneal diseases, such as antibiotics, steroids, and surgical interventions, have numerous disadvantages and challenges. Thus, there is an urgent need for more effective therapies. Although the pathogenesis of corneal diseases is not fully understood, it is known that injury caused by various stresses and postinjury healing, such as epithelial renewal, inflammation, stromal fibrosis, and neovascularization, are highly involved. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of cell growth, metabolism, and the immune response. Recent studies have revealed that activation of mTOR signalling extensively contributes to the pathogenesis of various corneal diseases, and inhibition of mTOR with rapamycin achieves promising outcomes, supporting the potential of mTOR as a therapeutic target. In this review, we detail the function of mTOR in corneal diseases and how these characteristics contribute to disease treatment using mTOR-targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kuangqi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zixi Wang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiayuan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiawei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Li J, Han J, Shi Y, Liu M. Rapamycin inhibits corneal inflammatory response and neovascularization in a mouse model of corneal alkali burn. Exp Eye Res 2023:109539. [PMID: 37315833 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Alkali burn-induced corneal injury often causes inflammation and neovascularization and leads to compromised vision. We previously reported that rapamycin ameliorated corneal injury after alkali burns by methylation modification. In this study, we aimed to investigate the rapamycin-medicated mechanism against corneal inflammation and neovascularization. Our data showed that alkali burn could induce a range of different inflammatory response, including a stark upregulation of pro-inflammatory factor expression and an increase in the infiltration of myeloperoxidase- and F4/80-positive cells from the corneal limbus to the central stroma. Rapamycin effectively downregulated the mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nucleotide binding oligomerization domain-like receptors (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), and Caspase-1, and suppressed the infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages. Inflammation-related angiogenesis mediated by matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and rapamycin restrained this process by inhibiting the TNF-α upregulation in burned corneas of mice. Rapamycin also restrained corneal alkali burn-induced inflammation by regulating HIF-1α/VEGF-mediated angiogenesis and the serum cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The findings of this study indicated rapamycin may reduce inflammation-associated infiltration of inflammatory cells, shape the expression of cytokines, and balance the regulation of MMP-2 and HIF-1α-mediated inflammation and angiogenesis by suppressing mTOR activation in corneal wound healing induced by an alkali injury. It offered novel insights relevant for a potent drug for treating corneal alkali burn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiande Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
| | - Jiangyuan Han
- College of Life Sciences and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
| | - Yongpeng Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
| | - Minrui Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
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Sprogyte L, Park M, Di Girolamo N. Pathogenesis of Alkali Injury-Induced Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: A Literature Survey of Animal Models. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091294. [PMID: 37174694 PMCID: PMC10177508 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a debilitating ocular surface disease that eventuates from a depleted or dysfunctional limbal epithelial stem cell (LESC) pool, resulting in corneal epithelial failure and blindness. The leading cause of LSCD is a chemical burn, with alkali substances being the most common inciting agents. Characteristic features of alkali-induced LSCD include corneal conjunctivalization, inflammation, neovascularization and fibrosis. Over the past decades, animal models of corneal alkali burn and alkali-induced LSCD have been instrumental in improving our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for disease development. Through these paradigms, important insights have been gained with regards to signaling pathways that drive inflammation, neovascularization and fibrosis, including NF-κB, ERK, p38 MAPK, JNK, STAT3, PI3K/AKT, mTOR and WNT/β-catenin cascades. Nonetheless, the molecular and cellular events that underpin re-epithelialization and those that govern long-term epithelial behavior are poorly understood. This review provides an overview of the current mechanistic insights into the pathophysiology of alkali-induced LSCD. Moreover, we highlight limitations regarding existing animal models and knowledge gaps which, if addressed, would facilitate development of more efficacious therapeutic strategies for patients with alkali-induced LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Sprogyte
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Mijeong Park
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nick Di Girolamo
- Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Research, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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11
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Tavangarrad N, Mosleh N, Shomali T, Namazi F, Masoudian M. Evaluation of delaying effects of different short-term dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing in an avian model. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:999-1007. [PMID: 36251730 PMCID: PMC10029881 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge on possible delaying effects of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing is scarce in avian patients. OBJECTIVES The study evaluates effects of different dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on healing of corneal ulcer in an avian model. METHODS One hundred and fifty adult layers were randomly allocated into two equal categories each consisted of 5 groups (n = 15): 1, negative control (NC, normal cornea); 2, positive control (PC) (birds with experimental corneal ulcer); and 3, 4 and 5, birds with corneal injury that received ciprofloxacin 0.3% topically q6h, q8h and q12h, respectively for 3 (category 1) or 5 days (category 2). Corneas were excised for histopathological evaluation and determination of MMP-9 expression. RESULTS While no significant difference was observed in daily-measured fluorescein-stained ulcer size among ciprofloxacin-treated birds and PC group in category 1, birds in PC group of category 2 had significantly smaller ulcers as compared to antibiotic-treated birds at the end of experiment (p < 0.01 for all cases). Histopathological evaluations at the end of the experiment showed no significant difference among PC and ciprofloxacin-treated birds of both categories for almost all of the assayed parameters. Over expression of MMP-9 mRNA was observed in PC group after 3 and 5 days of ulcer induction compared to NC groups. Its expression in ciprofloxacin-treated birds of both categories remained close to PC groups. CONCLUSIONS While ciprofloxacin administration for 3 days does not affect ulcer healing, it delays healing process at the end of 5 days of treatments in an avian model of corneal ulcer injury. This delaying effect is not associated with a drastic change in MMP-9 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Tavangarrad
- Avian Diseases Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - N Mosleh
- Avian Diseases Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahoora Shomali
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Namazi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maliheh Masoudian
- Molecular Department of Central Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
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Sun Z, Zhang M, Wei Y, Li M, Wu X, Xin M. A simple but novel glycymicelle ophthalmic solution based on two approved drugs empagliflozin and glycyrrhizin: in vitro/ in vivo experimental evaluation for the treatment of corneal alkali burns. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:2531-2542. [PMID: 36779571 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01957d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
A simple but novel ophthalmic solution based on two approved drugs was developed to reposition existing drugs to treat new diseases. This nanoformulation was developed using the phytochemical drug glycyrrhizin as an amphiphilic nanocarrier to micellarly solubilize empagliflozin (EMP), an oral drug that is widely used to control high blood glucose but has poor water solubility. This novel nanoformulation, which we designated the EMP@glycymicelle ophthalmic solution, was obtained using a simple preparation process. The resulting solution was a clear solution with an EMP encapsulation efficiency of 97.91 ± 0.50%, a small glycymicelle size of 6.659 ± 0.196 nm, and a narrow polydispersity index of 0.226 ± 0.059. The optimized formulation demonstrated that EMP was soluble in water up to 18 mg ml-1 because of its encapsulation within glycymicelles. The EMP@glycymicelle ophthalmic solution exhibited excellent characteristics, including good storage stability, fast in vitro release profiles, improved in vitro antioxidant activity, and no ocular irritation. Ocular permeation evaluation showed that the EMP@glycymicelle ophthalmic solution had strong ocular permeation of EMP, and it reached the posterior segment of mouse eyes after ocular topical administration. The treatment efficacy evaluation showed that the EMP@glycymicelle ophthalmic solution had a significant effect against corneal alkali burns in mice, prompting corneal wound healing, recovering corneal sensitivity, reducing corneal haze, and relieving corneal NV invasion. The mechanism of inhibiting HMGB1 signaling was involved in this strong treatment effect. These results indicated that the EMP@glycymicelle ophthalmic solution provided a new concept of drug repurposing and a promising ocular system for the nano-delivery of EMP with significantly improved in vivo profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongjian Sun
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
| | - Mingxin Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China.
| | - Yanjun Wei
- Viwit Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Zaozhuang, Shandong, China
| | - Mengshuang Li
- Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Xianggen Wu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China.
| | - Meng Xin
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
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13
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Gao F, Wang J, Yang S, Ji M, Zhu G. Fear extinction induced by activation of PKA ameliorates anxiety-like behavior in PTSD mice. Neuropharmacology 2023; 222:109306. [PMID: 36341808 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy aiming to promote fear extinction is a useful treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the mechanisms underlying fear extinction and effective methods used to promote fear extinction in PTSD are still lacking. In this study, we displayed dysfunctions of cyclic adenosine 3,5-monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and calcium signaling in peripheral serum of PTSD patients using bioinformatics analysis. Later, we confirmed the dysfunctions of cAMP-PKA, AKT/mTOR and calcium signaling in the hippocampus of PTSD mice. Moreover, the reduction of calpain1 in the hippocampus enhanced fear memory acquisition. Single activation of PKA by systemic application of rolipram (ROL) or meglumine cyclic adenylate (M-cAMP) before re-exposure promoted fear extinction and improved anxiety-like behavior in PTSD mice. Moreover, systemic application of ROL before re-exposure improved hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) signaling and calpain1/AKT/mTOR signaling. Interestingly, the effects of activation of PKA could be partially blocked by TrkB antagonist, ANA-12 and mTOR inhibitor, RAPA. Finally, intranasal administration of ROL could also adjust the abnormality of fear memory and improve anxiety-like behaviors in PTSD mice. Collectively, activation of PKA could promote fear extinction, which correlated with the reduction of anxiety-like behavior. The mechanisms were related to the BDNF/TrkB and calpain1/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. PKA activation might be a useful complementary therapy for PE in the symptom elimination of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Manman Ji
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
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14
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Hu Q, Zhang X, Sun M, jiang B, Zhang Z, Sun D. Potential epigenetic molecular regulatory networks in ocular neovascularization. Front Genet 2022; 13:970224. [PMID: 36118885 PMCID: PMC9478661 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.970224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neovascularization is one of the many manifestations of ocular diseases, including corneal injury and vascular diseases of the retina and choroid. Although anti-VEGF drugs have been used to effectively treat neovascularization, long-term use of anti-angiogenic factors can cause a variety of neurological and developmental side effects. As a result, better drugs to treat ocular neovascularization are urgently required. There is mounting evidence that epigenetic regulation is important in ocular neovascularization. DNA methylation and histone modification, non-coding RNA, and mRNA modification are all examples of epigenetic mechanisms. In order to shed new light on epigenetic therapeutics in ocular neovascularization, this review focuses on recent advances in the epigenetic control of ocular neovascularization as well as discusses these new mechanisms.
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Wang J, Gao F, Cui S, Yang S, Gao F, Wang X, Zhu G. Utility of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone in preventing astrocytic and synaptic deficits in the hippocampus elicited by PTSD. Pharmacol Res 2022; 176:106079. [PMID: 35026406 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytic functions and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) signaling pathways are impaired in stress-related neuropsychiatric diseases. Previous studies have reported neuroprotective effects of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF), a TrkB activator. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using a modified single-prolonged stress (SPS&S) model and the potential beneficial effects of 7,8-DHF. SPS&S reduced the hippocampal expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker of astrocytes, and induced morphological changes in astrocytes. From the perspective of synaptic function, the SPS&S model displayed reduced expression of BDNF, p-TrkB, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95), AMPA receptor subunit GluR1 (GluA1), NMDA receptor subunit N2A/N2B ratio, calpain-1, phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and conversely, higher phosphatase and tension homolog (PTEN) expression in the hippocampus. Acute or continuous intraperitoneal administration of 7,8-DHF (5 mg/kg) after SPS&S procedures prevented SPS&S-induced fear memory generalization and anxiety-like behaviors as well as abnormalities of hippocampal oscillations. Most importantly, 7,8-DHF attenuated SPS&S-induced abnormal BDNF-TrkB signaling and calpain-1-dependent cascade of synaptic deficits. Furthermore, treatment with a TrkB inhibitor completely blocked while an mTOR inhibitor partially blocked the effects of 7,8-DHF on behavioral changes of SPS&S model mice. Our collective findings suggest that 7,8-DHF effectively alleviates PTSD-like symptoms, including fear generalization and anxiety-like behavior, potentially by preventing astrocytic and synaptic deficits in the hippocampus through targeting of TrkB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Shuai Cui
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Fang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Xuncui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, the Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230038, China.
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Sidler M, Aitken KJ, Jiang JX, Yadav P, Lloyd E, Ibrahim M, Choufani S, Weksberg R, Bägli D. Inhibition of DNA methylation during chronic obstructive bladder disease (COBD) improves function, pathology and expression. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17307. [PMID: 34453065 PMCID: PMC8397724 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Partial bladder outlet obstruction due to prostate hyperplasia or posterior urethral valves, is a widespread cause of urinary dysfunction, patient discomfort and also responsible for immense health care costs. Even after removal or relief of obstruction, the functional and pathologic aspects of obstruction remain as a chronic obstructive bladder disease (COBD). Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, contribute to the persistent character of many chronic diseases, and may be altered in COBD. We tested whether candidate genes and pathways and the pathophysiology of COBD were affected by a hypomethylating agent, decitabine (DAC). COBD was created in female Sprague-Dawley rats by surgical ligation of the urethra for 6 weeks, followed by removal of the suture. Sham ligations were performed by passing the suture behind the urethra. After removal of the obstruction or sham removal, animals were randomized to DAC treatment (1 mg/kg/3-times/week intraperitoneally) or vehicle (normal saline). Bladder function was non-invasively tested using metabolic cages, both one day prior to de-obstruction at 6 weeks and prior to sacrifice at 10 weeks. Residual volume and bladder mass were measured for each bladder. Bladders were examined by immunostaining as well as qPCR. The effects of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT)-3A knockout or overexpression on smooth muscle cell (SMC) function and phenotype were also examined in bladder SMC and ex vivo culture. Residual volumes of the DAC treated group were not significantly different from the NS group. Compared to COBD NS, COBD DAC treatment helped preserve micturition volume with a significant recovery of the voiding efficiency (ratio of the maximum voided volume/maximum bladder capacity) by one third (Fig. 1, p > 0.05). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) variants 1 and 5 were upregulated by COBD and significantly reduced by DAC treatment. Deposition of collagen in the COBD bladder was reduced by DAC, but gross hypertrophy remained. In bladder SMC, DNMT3A overexpression led to a loss of contractile function and phenotype. In bladders, persistently altered by COBD, inhibition of DNA-methylation enhances functional recovery, unlike treatment during partial obstruction, which exacerbates obstructive pathology. The underlying mechanisms may relate to the gene expression changes in BDNF and their effects on signaling in the bladder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Sidler
- Paediatric and Neonatal Surgery, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - K J Aitken
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G0A4, Canada.
| | - Jia-Xin Jiang
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Priyank Yadav
- Department of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, New PMSSY Rd, Raibareli Rd, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226014, India
| | - Erin Lloyd
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G0A4, Canada
| | - Malak Ibrahim
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G0A4, Canada
| | - Sanaa Choufani
- Genetics and Genome Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G0A4, Canada
| | - Rosanna Weksberg
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Darius Bägli
- Urology Division, Department of Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
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Karaboduk K. Development of a voltammetric method for the determination of rapamycin in pharmaceutical samples at pretreated pencil graphite electrode. J CHIN CHEM SOC-TAIP 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/jccs.202100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kuddusi Karaboduk
- Life Sciences Application and Research Center Gazi University Ankara Turkey
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