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Ben Moussa O, Parveau L, Aouimeur I, Egaud G, Maurin C, Fraine S, Urbaniak S, Perrache C, He Z, Xxx S, Dorado Cortez O, Poinard S, Mauclair C, Gain P, Thuret G. Femtosecond Laser Cutting of Human Crystalline Lens Capsule and Decellularization for Corneal Endothelial Bioengineering. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:255. [PMID: 38534529 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11030255] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The bioengineering of corneal endothelial grafts consists of seeding in vitro cultured corneal endothelial cells onto a thin, transparent, biocompatible, and sufficiently robust carrier which can withstand surgical manipulations. This is one of the most realistic alternatives to donor corneas, which are in chronic global shortage. The anterior capsule of the crystalline lens has already been identified as one of the best possible carriers, but its challenging manual preparation has limited its use. In this study, we describe a femtosecond laser cutting process of the anterior capsule of whole lenses in order to obtain capsule discs of 8 mm diameter, similar to conventional endothelial grafts. Circular marks made on the periphery of the disc indicate its orientation. Immersion in water for 3 days is sufficient to completely remove the lens epithelial cells and to enable the seeding of corneal endothelial cells, which remain viable after 27 days of culture. Therefore, this method provides a transparent, decellularized disc ready to form viable tissue engineered endothelial grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olfa Ben Moussa
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Louise Parveau
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Inès Aouimeur
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Grégory Egaud
- GIE Manutech-USD, 18 Rue Professeur Benoît Lauras, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Corantin Maurin
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Sofiane Fraine
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Sébastien Urbaniak
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Chantal Perrache
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Zhiguo He
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
| | - Sedao Xxx
- Laboratoire Hubert Curien, Jean Monnet University, 18 Rue Professeur Benoît Lauras, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Oliver Dorado Cortez
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Avenue Albert Raimond, CEDEX 02, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Sylvain Poinard
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Avenue Albert Raimond, CEDEX 02, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Cyril Mauclair
- Laboratoire Hubert Curien, Jean Monnet University, 18 Rue Professeur Benoît Lauras, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Philippe Gain
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Avenue Albert Raimond, CEDEX 02, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology, BiiO, Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, 10 Rue de la Marandière, 42270 Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Avenue Albert Raimond, CEDEX 02, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
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Kilic-Toprak E, Cort-Donmez A, Toprak I. Effects of Autologous Serum and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Human Corneal Endothelial Cell Regeneration: A Comparative Study. Eye Contact Lens 2024; 50:106-111. [PMID: 38019585 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000001056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of autologous serum (AS) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) proliferation and apoptosis in comparison to Y-27632 as the commonly studied Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) inhibitor. METHODS The human corneal endothelial primary cell line was used for this study. As the treatment groups, HCECs were incubated with AS, PRP, and Y-27632, whereas the control group received no treatment. Cell proliferation (measured by 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine [BrdU] incorporation) and apoptosis (based on the caspase-3 level) were compared between the control, Y-27632, AS, and PRP groups. RESULTS In the Y-27632, AS, and PRP groups, the ratios of BrdU-incorporated cells were significantly higher (115±0.2%, 125±0.2%, 122±0.4% at 24 hr, and 138±2.4%, 160±0.2%, 142±0.2% at 48 hr, respectively) than in the control group (100±18.4% at 24 hr, 100±1.1% at 48 hr) ( P <0.05 for all). Furthermore, AS provided a higher HCEC proliferation ratio compared with the Y-27632 group at 24 and 48 hr ( P <0.05 for all). Caspase-3 was significantly lower in the AS group (60.3±3.3%) than in the control (100±2.3%), Y-27632 (101.9±5.2%), and PRP (101±6.8%) groups ( P <0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrated for the first time that AS and PRP promoted HCEC proliferation and AS significantly decreased apoptosis in HCECs. A superior effect on HCEC proliferation was also observed with AS compared with Y-27632. Future "autologous" regenerative therapeutic options for corneal endothelial failure may involve the utilization of AS and PRP owing to their accessibility, simplicity in preparation, immunologic compatibility, and donor-free nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Kilic-Toprak
- Departments of Physiology (E.K.-T.), Biochemistry (A.C.-D.), and Ophthalmology (I.T.), Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
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Zekušić M, Bujić Mihica M, Skoko M, Vukušić K, Risteski P, Martinčić J, Tolić IM, Bendelja K, Ramić S, Dolenec T, Vrgoč Zimić I, Puljić D, Petric Vicković I, Iveković R, Batarilo I, Prosenc Zmrzljak U, Hoffmeister A, Vučemilo T. New characterization and safety evaluation of human limbal stem cells used in clinical application: fidelity of mitotic process and mitotic spindle morphologies. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:368. [PMID: 38093301 PMCID: PMC10720168 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03586-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are crucial for the regeneration of the corneal epithelium in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Thus, LSCs during cultivation in vitro should be in highly homogeneous amounts, while potency and expression of stemness without tumorigenesis would be desirable. Therefore, further characterization and safety evaluation of engineered limbal grafts is required to provide safe and high-quality therapeutic applications. METHODS After in vitro expansion, LSCs undergo laboratory characterization in a single-cell suspension, cell culture, and in limbal grafts before transplantation. Using a clinically applicable protocol, the data collected on LSCs at passage 1 were summarized, including: identity (cell size, morphology); potency (yield, viability, population doubling time, colony-forming efficiency); expression of putative stem cell markers through flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Then, mitotic chromosome stability and normal mitotic outcomes were explored by using live-cell imaging. Finally, impurities, bacterial endotoxins and sterility were determined. RESULTS Expression of the stemness marker p63 in single-cell suspension and in cell culture showed high values by different methods. Limbal grafts showed p63-positive cells (78.7 ± 9.4%), Ki67 proliferation (41.7 ± 15.9%), while CK3 was negative. Impurity with 3T3 feeder cells and endotoxins was minimized. We presented mitotic spindles with a length of 11.40 ± 0.54 m and a spindle width of 8.05 ± 0.55 m as new characterization in LSC culture. Additionally, live-cell imaging of LSCs (n = 873) was performed, and only a small fraction < 2.5% of aberrant interphase cells was observed; 2.12 ± 2.10% of mitotic spindles exhibited a multipolar phenotype during metaphase, and 3.84 ± 3.77% of anaphase cells had a DNA signal present within the spindle midzone, indicating a chromosome bridge or lagging chromosome phenotype. CONCLUSION This manuscript provides, for the first time, detailed characterization of the parameters of fidelity of the mitotic process and mitotic spindle morphologies of LSCs used in a direct clinical application. Our data show that p63-positive CK3-negative LSCs grown in vitro for clinical purposes undergo mitotic processes with extremely high fidelity, suggesting high karyotype stability. This finding confirms LSCs as a high-quality and safe therapy for eye regeneration in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Zekušić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Bujić Mihica
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marija Skoko
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kruno Vukušić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Patrik Risteski
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Martinčić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva M Tolić
- Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Krešo Bendelja
- Center for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, Laboratory of Immunology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Snježana Ramić
- Department of Oncological Pathology and Clinical Cytology 'Ljudevit Jurak', University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tamara Dolenec
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Vrgoč Zimić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dominik Puljić
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivanka Petric Vicković
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Iveković
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivanka Batarilo
- Department of Microbiology, Croatian Institute of Transfusion Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Uršula Prosenc Zmrzljak
- Molecular Biology Department, BIA Separations CRO, Labena d.O.O, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Labena d.o.o, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Tiha Vučemilo
- Department of Transfusion and Regenerative Medicine, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
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Loiseau A, Raîche-Marcoux G, Maranda C, Bertrand N, Boisselier E. Animal Models in Eye Research: Focus on Corneal Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16661. [PMID: 38068983 PMCID: PMC10706114 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The eye is a complex sensory organ that enables visual perception of the world. The dysfunction of any of these tissues can impair vision. Conduction studies on laboratory animals are essential to ensure the safety of therapeutic products directly applied or injected into the eye to treat ocular diseases before eventually proceeding to clinical trials. Among these tissues, the cornea has unique homeostatic and regenerative mechanisms for maintaining transparency and refraction of external light, which are essential for vision. However, being the outermost tissue of the eye and directly exposed to the external environment, the cornea is particularly susceptible to injury and diseases. This review highlights the evidence for selecting appropriate animals to better understand and treat corneal diseases, which rank as the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide. The development of reliable and human-relevant animal models is, therefore, a valuable research tool for understanding and translating fundamental mechanistic findings, as well as for assessing therapeutic potential in humans. First, this review emphasizes the unique characteristics of animal models used in ocular research. Subsequently, it discusses current animal models associated with human corneal pathologies, their utility in understanding ocular disease mechanisms, and their role as translational models for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Loiseau
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Gabrielle Raîche-Marcoux
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Cloé Maranda
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Nicolas Bertrand
- Faculty of Pharmacy, CHU de Quebec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Elodie Boisselier
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
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Ryu Y, Hwang JS, Bo Noh K, Park SH, Seo JH, Shin YJ. Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Promote the Regeneration of Corneal Endothelium Through Ameliorating Senescence. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:29. [PMID: 37850944 PMCID: PMC10593138 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.13.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) have been considered unable to regenerate in vivo, resulting in corneal decompensation after significant loss of hCECs. adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ASC)-derived exosomes can regenerate tissues and organs. In this study, we investigated whether ASC-derived exosomes could protect and regenerate CECs. Methods We performed cell viability and cell-cycle analyses to evaluate the effect of ASC-derived exosomes on the regeneration capacity of cultured hCECs. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were used to induce biological stress in CECs. The effect of ASC-derived exosomes on CECs was investigated in vivo. ASC-derived exosomes were introduced into rat CECs using electroporation, and rat corneas were injured using cryoinjury. Next-generation sequencing analysis was performed to compare the differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) between ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes. Results ASC-derived exosomes induced CEC proliferation and suppressed TGF-β- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress and senescence. ASC-derived exosomes protect hCECs against TGF-β- or H2O2-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition and mitophagy. In an in vivo study, ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing of rat CECs and protected the corneal endothelium against cryoinjury-induced corneal endothelium damage. Next-generation sequencing analysis revealed differentially expressed miRNAs for ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes. They are involved in lysine degradation, adherens junction, the TGF-β signaling pathway, the p53 signaling pathway, the Hippo signaling pathway, the forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and RNA degradation based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Conclusions ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing and regeneration of endothelial cells by inducing a shift in the cell cycle and suppressing senescence and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunkyoung Ryu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Bo Noh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hie Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Hyun Seo
- Veterans Medical Research Institute, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ma DJ, Hwang JS, Noh KB, Oh SH, Kim KW, Shin YJ. Role of NADPH Oxidase 4 in Corneal Endothelial Cells Is Mediated by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Autophagy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1228. [PMID: 37371958 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061228] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human corneal-endothelial cells (hCEnCs) are located on the inner layer of the cornea. Injury to CEnCs leads to permanent corneal edema, requiring corneal transplantation. NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) has been reported to be implicated in the pathogenesis of CEnCs diseases. Thus, we investigated the role of NOX4 in CEnCs in this study. In an animal study, siRNA for NOX4 (siNOX4) or plasmid for NOX4 (pNOX4) was introduced into the corneal endothelium of rats by electroporation, using a square-wave electroporator (ECM830, Havard apparatus) to decrease or increase the expression of NOX4, respectively, and the rat corneas were cryoinjured through contact with a metal rod of 3 mm diameter frozen in liquid nitrogen for 10 min. The immunofluorescence staining of NOX4 and 8-OHdG showed that the levels of NOX4 and 8-OHdG were decreased in the siNOX4 group compared to the siControl, and increased in the pNOX4 group compared to the pControl at one week after treatment. Without cryoinjury, corneal opacity was more severe, and the density of CEnCs was lower, in pNOX4-treated rats compared to pControl. After cryoinjury, the corneas were more transparent, and the CEnC density was higher, in siNOX4-treated rats. The hCEnCs were cultured and transfected with siNOX4 and pNOX4. The silencing of NOX4 in hCEnCs resulted in a normal cell shape, higher viability, and higher proliferation rate than those transfected with the siControl, while NOX4 overexpression had the opposite effect. NOX4 overexpression increased the number of senescent cells and intracellular oxidative stress levels. NOX4 overexpression increased ATF4 and ATF6 levels, and nuclear translocation of XBP-1, which is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker, while the silencing of NOX4 had the opposite effect. Additionally, the mitochondrial membrane potential was hyperpolarized by the silencing of NOX4, and depolarized by NOX4 overexpression. The LC3II levels, a marker of autophagy, were decreased by the silencing of NOX4, and increased by NOX4 overexpression. In conclusion, NOX4 plays a pivotal role in the wound-healing and senescence of hCEnCs, by modulating oxidative stress, ER stress, and autophagy. The regulation of NOX4 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for regulating the homeostasis of CEnCs, and treating corneal-endothelial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Joong Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Bo Noh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Wook Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
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Wong EN, Foo VHX, Peh GSL, Htoon HM, Ang HP, Tan BYL, Ong HS, Mehta JS. Early Visibility of Cellular Aggregates and Changes in Central Corneal Thickness as Predictors of Successful Corneal Endothelial Cell Injection Therapy. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081167. [PMID: 37190076 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081167] [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: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Cell injection therapy is an emerging treatment for bullous keratopathy (BK). Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) imaging allows the high-resolution assessment of the anterior chamber. Our study aimed to investigate the predictive value of the visibility of cellular aggregates for corneal deturgescence in an animal model of bullous keratopathy. (2) Methods: Cell injections of corneal endothelial cells were performed in 45 eyes in a rabbit model of BK. AS-OCT imaging and central corneal thickness (CCT) measurement were performed at baseline and on day 1, day 4, day 7 and day 14 following cell injection. A logistic regression was modelled to predict successful corneal deturgescence and its failure with cell aggregate visibility and CCT. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted, and areas under the curve (AUC) calculated for each time point in these models. (3) Results: Cellular aggregates were identified on days 1, 4, 7 and 14 in 86.7%, 39.5%, 20.0% and 4.4% of eyes, respectively. The positive predictive value of cellular aggregate visibility for successful corneal deturgescence was 71.8%, 64.7%, 66.7% and 100.0% at each time point, respectively. Using logistic regression modelling, the visibility of cellular aggregates on day 1 appeared to increase the likelihood of successful corneal deturgescence, but this did not reach statistical significance. An increase in pachymetry, however, resulted in a small but statistically significant decreased likelihood of success, with an odds ratio of 0.996 for days 1 (95% CI 0.993-1.000), 2 (95% CI 0.993-0.999) and 14 (95% CI 0.994-0.998) and an odds ratio of 0.994 (95% CI 0.991-0.998) for day 7. The ROC curves were plotted, and the AUC values were 0.72 (95% CI 0.55-0.89), 0.80 (95% CI 0. 62-0.98), 0.86 (95% CI 0.71-1.00) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.80-0.99) for days 1, 4, 7 and 14, respectively. (4) Conclusions: Logistic regression modelling of cell aggregate visibility and CCT was predictive of successful corneal endothelial cell injection therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan N Wong
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Valencia H X Foo
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Gary S L Peh
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Hla M Htoon
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Heng-Pei Ang
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Belinda Y L Tan
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Hon-Shing Ong
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- School of Material Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
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Miron A, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Kocaba V, Jager MJ, Melles GRJ, Oellerich S. Early and late-onset cell migration from peripheral corneal endothelium. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285609. [PMID: 37163555 PMCID: PMC10171599 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study we describe peripheral corneal endothelial cell migration in vitro in the absence and presence of a ROCK-inhibitor. For this study, 21 corneal endothelial graft rims, with attached trabecular meshwork (TM), were prepared from Descemet membrane-endothelial cell sheets by 6.5 mm trepanation. For the initial proof-of-concept, 7 outer graft rims were cultured in a thermo-reversible hydrogel matrix for up to 47 days. To assess the effect of a ROCK-inhibitor, 14 paired outer rims were cultured either with or without ROCK-inhibitor for up to 46 days. At the end of culture, tissue was retrieved from the hydrogel matrix and examined for cell viability and expression of different endothelial cell markers (ZO-1, Na+/K+-ATPase, NCAM, glypican, and vimentin). All cultured rims remained viable and displayed either single regions (n = 5/21) or collective areas (n = 16/21) of cell migration, regardless of the presence or absence of ROCK-inhibition. Migration started after 4±2 days and continued for at least 29 days. The presence of ROCK-inhibitor seemed to contribute to a more regular cell morphology of migrating cells. In addition, 7 outer rims demonstrated a phenotypically distinct late-onset but fast-growing cell population emerging from the area close to the limbus. These cells emerged after 3 weeks of culture and appeared less differentiated compared to other areas of migration. Immunostaining showed that migrated cells maintained the expression patterns of endothelial cell markers. In conclusion, we observed 2 morphologically distinct migrating cell populations with the first type being triggered by a broken physical barrier, which disrupted contact inhibition and the second, late-onset type showing a higher proliferative capacity though appearing less differentiated. This cell subpopulation appeared to be mediated by stimuli other than loss of contact inhibition and ROCK-inhibitor presence. Further exploration of the differences between these cell types may assist in optimizing regenerative treatment options for endothelial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Miron
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Tissue and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Martine J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit R J Melles
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Silke Oellerich
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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9
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Ye EA, Chung HS, Park Y, Sunwoo JH, Lee W, Kim J, Tchah H, Lee H, Kim JY. Induction of Corneal Endothelial-like Cells from Mesenchymal Stem Cells of the Umbilical Cord. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315408. [PMID: 36499735 PMCID: PMC9739507 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315408] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of the limited differentiation capacity of human corneal endothelial cells (CECs), stem cells have emerged as a potential remedy for corneal endothelial dysfunction (CED). This study aimed to demonstrate the differentiation of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) into CECs and to investigate the efficacy of MSC-induced CEC injection into the anterior chamber in a rabbit model of CED. Human UC-MSCs were differentiated into CECs using medium containing glycogen synthase kinase 3β inhibitor and two types of Rho-associated protein kinase inhibitors. In the MSC-induced CECs, CEC-specific proteins were identified through immunohistochemistry and changes in CEC-specific gene expressions over time were confirmed through quantitative RT-PCR. When MSC-induced CECs were injected into a rabbit model of CED, corneal opacity and neovascularization were improved compared with the non-transplanted control or MSC injection group. We also confirmed that MSC-induced CECs were well engrafted as evidenced by human mitochondrial DNA in the central cornea of an animal model. Therefore, we demonstrated the differentiation of UC-MSCs into CECs in vitro and demonstrated the clinical efficacy of MSC-induced CEC injection, providing in vivo evidence that MSC-induced CECs have potential as a treatment option for CED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Ah Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Seok Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dankook University Hospital, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hye Sunwoo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Whanseo Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hungwon Tchah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (J.Y.K.); Tel.: +82-2-3010-5931 (H.L.); +82-2-3010-3680 (J.Y.K.); Fax: +82-2-470-6640 (H.L.); +82-2-470-6440 (J.Y.K.)
| | - Jae Yong Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (J.Y.K.); Tel.: +82-2-3010-5931 (H.L.); +82-2-3010-3680 (J.Y.K.); Fax: +82-2-470-6640 (H.L.); +82-2-470-6440 (J.Y.K.)
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10
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Kim KW, Shin YJ, Lee SCS. Novel ROCK Inhibitors, Sovesudil and PHP-0961, Enhance Proliferation, Adhesion and Migration of Corneal Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314690. [PMID: 36499014 PMCID: PMC9740482 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss or dysfunction of human corneal endothelial cells (hCEnCs) is a leading cause of blindness due to corneal failure. Corneal transplantation with a healthy donor cornea has been the only available treatment for corneal endothelial disease. However, the need for way to regenerate the CEnCs has been increased due to the global shortage of donor corneas. The aim of the study is to investigate whether novel Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitors can induce the cultivation and regeneration of hCEnCs. Cultured hCEnCs were treated with Y-27632, sovesudil, or PHP-0961 for 24 h. Cellular responses, including cell viability, cytotoxicity, proliferation, and Ki67 expression with ROCK inhibitors were evaluated. We also evaluated wound healing and cell adhesion assays. Porcine corneas were used ex vivo to evaluate the effects of Y-27632, sovesudil, and PHP-0961 on wound healing and regeneration. We performed live/dead cell assays and immunofluorescence staining for SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 2 (SOX2), β-catenin, and ZO-1 on porcine corneas after ROCK inhibitor treatments. Cell viability, cell proliferation rate, and the number of Ki67-positive cells were higher in Y-27632, sovesudil and PHP-0961 treated cells compared to the control. There was no difference in LDH cytotoxicity test between any groups. Cells treated with Y-27632, sovesudil and PHP-0961 showed faster migration, wound healing, and cell adhesion. In the porcine ex vivo experiments, wound healing, the number of live cells, and SOX2-positive cells were higher in Y-27632, sovesudil and PHP-0961 treated corneas. In all experiments, sovesudil and PHP-0961, the novel ROCK inhibitors, were equal or superior to the results of the ROCK inhibitor positive control, Y-27632. In conclusion, sovesudil and PHP-0961, novel ROCK inhibitors have the capacity to regenerate hCEnCs by enhancing cell proliferation and adhesion between cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Wook Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-6960-1240
| | - Sammy Chi Sam Lee
- pH Pharma Co., Ltd., B-1009, U-Space, 670 Daewangpangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13494, Republic of Korea
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11
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Kitazawa K, Sotozono C, Kinoshita S. Current Advancements in Corneal Cell-Based Therapy. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2022; 11:335-345. [PMID: 36041148 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal epithelial stem cells (CEpSCs) mostly reside at the limbal area and are responsible for tissue homeostasis throughout life. Once complete CEpSC deficiency occurs, regenerative medicine cell-based therapy using CEpSCs or their alternatives can provide successful clinical outcomes. Due to an improved understanding of CEpSCs and mucosal epithelial stem cells, major advancements have been made over the past few decades in in vivo and ex vivo cell-based ocular surface reconstruction therapies for the treatment of severe ocular surface diseases. New therapeutic concepts and clinical strategies are emerging for the treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction. For example, unlike corneal epithelial cells, in vivo corneal endothelial cells (CECs) stop proliferating and are arrested in the G1 phase of the cell cycle due to cell-to-cell contact inhibition and exposure to a high concentration of transforming growth factor-beta in the aqueous humor. Thus, the production of CECs with good functionality in culture has consistently been difficult. To solve this problem, Rho-associated protein kinase inhibition has taken center stage, as it not only makes the production of human CECs in culture closely mimic the functional characteristics of in vivo healthy CECs possible but also helps sustain those biological properties. Thus, cultured human CEC injection therapy is now moving to the forefront for the treatment of corneal endothelial failure. Herein, we summarize key historical discoveries in corneal cell-based regenerative medicine and illustrate the concept of corneal cell therapy for the treatment of refractory corneal epithelial and endothelial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Kitazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Chie Sotozono
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kinoshita
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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12
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Biswas S, Shafiquzzaman M, Yu G, Li P, Yu Q, Zhao P, Li B, Li J. Notch1 signaling in keratocytes maintains corneal transparency by suppressing VEGF expression. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1442-1457. [PMID: 35623350 PMCID: PMC9214072 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea fends off chemicals, dirt, and infectious particles and provides most of the eye's focusing power. Corneal transparency is of paramount importance to normal vision, yet how it is established and maintained remains unclear. Here, we ablated Notch1 in keratocytes using Twist2-Cre mice and found that Twist2-Cre; Notch1f/f mice developed stroma expansion and neovascularization, followed by hyperproliferation and metaplasia of corneal epithelial progenitor cells and plaque formation at central cornea, leading to loss of transparency. Development of these phenotypes does not involve bacteria-caused inflammation; instead, Notch1 deletion upregulates Vegfa and Vegfc via Hif1α in keratocytes. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor inhibitor axitinib prevented development of these anomalies in Twist2-Cre; Notch1f/f mice, suggesting that VEGFs secreted by keratocytes promote not only neovascularization but also proliferation and metaplasia of epithelial progenitor cells at central cornea. This study uncovers a Notch1-Hif1α-VEGF pathway in keratocytes that maintains corneal transparency and represents a potential target for treatment of related corneal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Biswas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Md Shafiquzzaman
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 99 Shangda Road, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Guo Yu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ping Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Qian Yu
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Baojie Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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13
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Characterization of Taurine/Silk Fibroin Blend Film for Application as a Carrier for Corneal Endothelial Cell Transplantation. Macromol Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13233-022-0033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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14
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Wong YL, Liu S, Walkden A. Current Perspectives on Corneal Transplantation (Part 2). Clin Ophthalmol 2022; 16:647-659. [PMID: 35282168 PMCID: PMC8904263 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s349582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease of the cornea is the third leading cause of blindness worldwide. Corneal graft surgery is one of the most successful forms of solid organ transplantations in humans, with ever increasing developments in surgical technique. To date, approximately 4504 corneal transplants are performed in the UK each year. While full thickness transplantation was the most commonly performed keratoplasty over the last few decades, selective lamellar transplantation of the diseased layers of the cornea has been universally adopted. This comprehensive review aims to provide an updated synthesis on different types of corneal transplantations, their treatment outcomes, and the associated complications of each procedure both in adult and pediatric populations. In addition, we also present an up-to-date summary of the emerging therapeutic approaches that have the potential to reduce the demand for donor-dependent keratoplasty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee Ling Wong
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Siyin Liu
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Walkden
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Correspondence: Andrew Walkden, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK, Email
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15
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Wang Y, Jin C, Tian H, Xu J, Chen J, Hu S, Li Q, Lu L, Ou Q, Xu GT, Cui H. CHIR99021 balance TGFβ1 induced human corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition to favor corneal endothelial cell proliferation. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:108939. [PMID: 35150734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) play a major role in the maintenance of stromal hydration via the barrier and pump function for clear vision. Adult CEC cannot regenerate after injury. CECs cultured in vitro can undergo mitosis but may undergo corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EnMT) and lose their endothelial characteristics. In this study, we examined the effects of CHIR99201 on transforming growth factor beta-1(TGFβ1)-induced EnMT in human CEC (hCECs) lines. CHIR99021 kept hCECs in the hexagonal shape and could downregulate the EnMT markers alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin (FN1), meanwhile maintained the hCECs function markers Na+/K+-ATPase and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at levels comparable to those in the normal control. Interestingly, we found that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 at appropriate concentrations would significantly promote the proliferation and migration of hCECs. These effects may be related to the inhibition of RhoA or Rac1, as well as the activation of Wnt and Erk pathway, with a calcium homeostasis. Our findings indicate that CHIR99021 inhibit EnMT and that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 may provide new ideas for corneal endothelial regeneration and wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Shuqin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongping Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China.
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16
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Comparative culture of human corneal endothelial cells following treatment with human platelet lysate/fibrin hydrogel versus Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor: in vitro and ex vivo study. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 42:1469-1479. [PMID: 35023011 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-02136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The advancement of tissue engineering and cell therapy research has resulted in innovative therapeutic options for patients with corneal endothelial diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the potential effect of using human platelet lysate (HPL)/Fibrin hydrogel versus using a Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor, on the culture of human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) under in vitro and ex vivo conditions. METHODS HCECs were isolated from human donors and treated separately with HPL/Fibrin hydrogel, a Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor, and fetal bovine serum (FBS). MTT viability assay and cell counting were performed on the treated cells. Subsequently, we prepared ex vivo models of human corneal endothelial dysfunction and incubated them with DiI-labeled-HCECs. Specular and fluorescence microscopy were then performed on each of the ex vivo models. RESULTS In comparison, similar viability results were achieved in the cells treated with HPL/Fibrin hydrogel versus those treated with the Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor, but both treatments showed higher viability than the control group (FBS). More importantly, based on the specular and fluorescence microscopic results, the HPL/Fibrin hydrogel and the Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor treatments showed similar inducible effects on the attachment of the cells to the Descemet membranes of the ex vivo models. CONCLUSION HPL/Fibrin hydrogel and Y-27632 ROCK inhibitor have similar inducible effects on the viability and attachment of the HCECs. A definite advantage of treating cells with HPL/Fibrin hydrogel is that it serves as a xeno-free and biocompatible material which can have autologous applications in future usage by clinics.
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17
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Li Z, Duan H, Jia Y, Zhao C, Li W, Wang X, Gong Y, Dong C, Ma B, Dou S, Zhang B, Li D, Cao Y, Xie L, Zhou Q, Shi W. Long-term corneal recovery by simultaneous delivery of hPSC-derived corneal endothelial precursors and nicotinamide. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:146658. [PMID: 34981789 PMCID: PMC8718141 DOI: 10.1172/jci146658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) hold great promise for the treatment of various human diseases. However, their therapeutic benefits and mechanisms for treating corneal endothelial dysfunction remain undefined. Here, we developed a therapeutic regimen consisting of the combination of hPSC-derived corneal endothelial precursors (CEPs) with nicotinamide (NAM) for effective treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction. In rabbit and nonhuman primate models, intracameral injection of CEPs and NAM achieved long-term recovery of corneal clarity and thickness, similar with the therapeutic outcome of cultured human corneal endothelial cells (CECs). The transplanted human CEPs exhibited structural and functional integration with host resident CECs. However, the long-term recovery relied on the stimulation of endogenous endothelial regeneration in rabbits, but predominantly on the replacing function of transplanted cells during the 3-year follow-up in nonhuman primates, which resemble human corneal endothelium with limited regenerative capacity. Mechanistically, NAM ensured in vivo proper maturation of transplanted CEPs into functional CECs by preventing premature senescence and endothelial-mesenchymal transition within the TGF-β–enriched aqueous humor. Together, we provide compelling experimental evidence and mechanistic insights of simultaneous delivery of CEPs and NAM as a potential approach for treating corneal endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyi Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanni Jia
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Can Zhao
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yajie Gong
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chunxiao Dong
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Bochao Ma
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shengqian Dou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongfang Li
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yihai Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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18
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Holland G, Pandit A, Sánchez-Abella L, Haiek A, Loinaz I, Dupin D, Gonzalez M, Larra E, Bidaguren A, Lagali N, Moloney EB, Ritter T. Artificial Cornea: Past, Current, and Future Directions. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:770780. [PMID: 34869489 PMCID: PMC8632951 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.770780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases are a leading cause of blindness with an estimated 10 million patients diagnosed with bilateral corneal blindness worldwide. Corneal transplantation is highly successful in low-risk patients with corneal blindness but often fails those with high-risk indications such as recurrent or chronic inflammatory disorders, history of glaucoma and herpetic infections, and those with neovascularisation of the host bed. Moreover, the need for donor corneas greatly exceeds the supply, especially in disadvantaged countries. Therefore, artificial and bio-mimetic corneas have been investigated for patients with indications that result in keratoplasty failure. Two long-lasting keratoprostheses with different indications, the Boston type-1 keratoprostheses and osteo-odonto-keratoprostheses have been adapted to minimise complications that have arisen over time. However, both utilise either autologous tissue or an allograft cornea to increase biointegration. To step away from the need for donor material, synthetic keratoprostheses with soft skirts have been introduced to increase biointegration between the device and native tissue. The AlphaCor™, a synthetic polymer (PHEMA) hydrogel, addressed certain complications of the previous versions of keratoprostheses but resulted in stromal melting and optic deposition. Efforts are being made towards creating synthetic keratoprostheses that emulate native corneas by the inclusion of biomolecules that support enhanced biointegration of the implant while reducing stromal melting and optic deposition. The field continues to shift towards more advanced bioengineering approaches to form replacement corneas. Certain biomolecules such as collagen are being investigated to create corneal substitutes, which can be used as the basis for bio-inks in 3D corneal bioprinting. Alternatively, decellularised corneas from mammalian sources have shown potential in replicating both the corneal composition and fibril architecture. This review will discuss the limitations of keratoplasty, milestones in the history of artificial corneal development, advancements in current artificial corneas, and future possibilities in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gráinne Holland
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Laura Sánchez-Abella
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Gipuzkoa, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Andrea Haiek
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Gipuzkoa, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Iraida Loinaz
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Gipuzkoa, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Damien Dupin
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance, Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Gipuzkoa, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | | | | | - Aritz Bidaguren
- Ophthalmology Department, Donostia University Hospital, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Neil Lagali
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elizabeth B. Moloney
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
- CÚRAM Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Thomas Ritter
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
- CÚRAM Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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19
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Smeringaiova I, Paaske Utheim T, Jirsova K. Ex vivo expansion and characterization of human corneal endothelium for transplantation: a review. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:554. [PMID: 34717745 PMCID: PMC8556978 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal endothelium plays a key role in maintaining corneal transparency. Its dysfunction is currently treated with penetrating or lamellar keratoplasty. Advanced cell therapy methods seek to address the persistent global deficiency of donor corneas by enabling the renewal of the endothelial monolayer with tissue-engineered grafts. This review provides an overview of recently published literature on the preparation of endothelial grafts for transplantation derived from cadaveric corneas that have developed over the last decade (2010–2021). Factors such as the most suitable donor parameters, culture substrates and media, endothelial graft storage conditions, and transplantation methods are discussed. Despite efforts to utilize alternative cellular sources, such as induced pluripotent cells, cadaveric corneas appear to be the best source of cells for graft preparation to date. However, native endothelial cells have a limited natural proliferative capacity, and they often undergo rapid phenotype changes in ex vivo culture. This is the main reason why no culture protocol for a clinical-grade endothelial graft prepared from cadaveric corneas has been standardized so far. Currently, the most established ex vivo culture protocol involves the peel-and-digest method of cell isolation and cell culture by the dual media method, including the repeated alternation of high and low mitogenic conditions. Culture media are enriched by additional substances, such as signaling pathway (Rho-associated protein kinase, TGF-β, etc.) inhibitors, to stimulate proliferation and inhibit unwanted morphological changes, particularly the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. To date, this promising approach has led to the development of endothelial grafts for the first in-human clinical trial in Japan. In addition to the lack of a standard culture protocol, endothelial-specific markers are still missing to confirm the endothelial phenotype in a graft ready for clinical use. Because the corneal endothelium appears to comprise phenotypically heterogeneous populations of cells, the genomic and proteomic expression of recently proposed endothelial-specific markers, such as Cadherin-2, CD166, or SLC4A11, must be confirmed by additional studies. The preparation of endothelial grafts is still challenging today, but advances in tissue engineering and surgery over the past decade hold promise for the successful treatment of endothelial dysfunctions in more patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrida Smeringaiova
- Laboratory of the Biology and Pathology of the Eye, Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Albertov 4, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Katerina Jirsova
- Laboratory of the Biology and Pathology of the Eye, Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Albertov 4, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic.
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20
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Català P, Thuret G, Skottman H, Mehta JS, Parekh M, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Collin RWJ, Nuijts RMMA, Ferrari S, LaPointe VLS, Dickman MM. Approaches for corneal endothelium regenerative medicine. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100987. [PMID: 34237411 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The state of the art therapy for treating corneal endothelial disease is transplantation. Advances in the reproducibility and accessibility of surgical techniques are increasing the number of corneal transplants, thereby causing a global deficit of donor corneas and leaving 12.7 million patients with addressable visual impairment. Approaches to regenerate the corneal endothelium offer a solution to the current tissue scarcity and a treatment to those in need. Methods for generating corneal endothelial cells into numbers that could address the current tissue shortage and the possible strategies used to deliver them have now become a therapeutic reality with clinical trials taking place in Japan, Singapore and Mexico. Nevertheless, there is still a long way before such therapies are approved by regulatory bodies and become clinical practice. Moreover, acellular corneal endothelial graft equivalents and certain drugs could provide a treatment option for specific disease conditions without the need of donor tissue or cells. Finally, with the emergence of gene modulation therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease, it would be possible to treat presymptomatic patients or those presenting early symptoms, drastically reducing the need for donor tissue. It is necessary to understand the most recent developments in this rapidly evolving field to know which conditions could be treated with which approach. This article provides an overview of the current and developing regenerative medicine therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease and provides the necessary guidance and understanding towards the treatment of corneal endothelial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pere Català
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging of Corneal Graft, BiiGC, Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint Etienne, Saint Etienne, France; Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University Singapore Medical School, Singapore; Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK; The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy; Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Rob W J Collin
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rudy M M A Nuijts
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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21
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Menzel-Severing J, Salla S, Geerling G. Eye Banks: Future Perspectives. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2021; 238:674-678. [PMID: 34157769 DOI: 10.1055/a-1478-4277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Technological progress and societal change are transforming medicine, and cornea banks are no exception. New infectiological factors, statutory requirements, management concepts, globalisation and digitalisation are also influencing how such facilities will operate in the future. The goal of providing high quality material to patients with corneal disease remains unaltered. The present article seeks to shed light on the type of material this will involve and under what circumstances it is to be obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabine Salla
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Deutschland
| | - Gerd Geerling
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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