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Cho SH, Kim JH, Kim S. Perturbed cell cycle phase-dependent positioning and nuclear migration of retinal progenitors along the apico-basal axis underlie global retinal disorganization in the LCA8-like mouse model. Dev Biol 2024; 517:39-54. [PMID: 39284539 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
Combined removal of Crb1 and Crb2 from the developing optic vesicle evokes cellular and laminar disorganization by disrupting the apical cell-cell adhesion in developing retinal epithelium. As a result, at postnatal stages, affected mouse retinas show temporarily thickened, coarsely laminated retinas in addition to functional deficits, including a severely abnormal electroretinogram and decreased visual acuity. These features are reminiscent of Leber congenital amaurosis 8, which is caused in humans by subsets of Crb1 mutations. However, the cellular basis of the abnormalities in retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) that lead to retinal disorganization is largely unknown. In this study, we analyze specific features of RPCs in mutant retinas, including maintenance of the progenitor pool, cell cycle progression, cell cycle phase-dependent nuclear positioning, cell survival, and generation of mature retinal cell types. We find crucial defects in the mutant RPCs. Upon removal of CRB1 and CRB2, apical structures of the RPCs, determined by markers of cilia and centrosomes, are basally shifted. In addition, the positioning of the somata of the M-phase cells, normally localized at the apical surface of the retinal epithelium, is basally shifted in a nearly randomized pattern along the apico-basal axis. Consequently, we propose that positioning of RPCs is desynchronized from cell cycle phase and largely randomized during embryonic development at E17.5. Because the resultant postmitotic cells inevitably lose positional information, the outer and inner nuclear layers (ONL and INL) fail to form from ONBL during neonatal development and retinal cells become mixed locally and globally. Additional results of the lost tissue polarity in Crb1/Crb2 dKO retinas include atypical formation of heterotopic cell patches containing photoreceptor cells in the ganglion cell layer and acellular patches filled with neural processes. Collectively, these changes lead to a mouse model of LCA8-like pathology. LCA8-like pathology differs substantially from the well-characterized, broad range of degeneration phenotypes that arise during the differentiation of photoreceptor and Muller glial cells in retinitis pigmentosa 12, a closely related disease caused by mutated human Crb1. Importantly, the present results suggest that Crb1/Crb2 serve indispensable functions in maintaining cell-cycle phase-dependent positioning of RPCs along the apico-basal axis, regulating cell cycle progression, and maintaining structural laminar integrity without significantly affecting the size of the RPC pools, generation of the subsets of the retinal cell types, or the distribution of cell cycle phases during RPC division. Taken together, these findings provide the crucial cellular basis of the thickening and severely disorganized lamination that are the unique features of the retinal abnormalities in LCA8 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo-Hee Cho
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Sydney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
| | - Ji Hyang Kim
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Sydney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Seonhee Kim
- Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
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2
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Ng BW, Kaukonen MK, McClements ME, Shamsnajafabadi H, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. Genetic therapies and potential therapeutic applications of CRISPR activators in the eye. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 102:101289. [PMID: 39127142 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101289] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Conventional gene therapy involving supplementation only treats loss-of-function diseases and is limited by viral packaging sizes, precluding therapy of large genes. The discovery of CRISPR/Cas has led to a paradigm shift in the field of genetic therapy, with the promise of precise gene editing, thus broadening the range of diseases that can be treated. The initial uses of CRISPR/Cas have focused mainly on gene editing or silencing of abnormal variants via utilising Cas endonuclease to trigger the target cell endogenous non-homologous end joining. Subsequently, the technology has evolved to modify the Cas enzyme and even its guide RNA, leading to more efficient editing tools in the form of base and prime editing. Further advancements of this CRISPR/Cas technology itself have expanded its functional repertoire from targeted editing to programmable transactivation, shifting the therapeutic focus to precise endogenous gene activation or upregulation with the potential for epigenetic modifications. In vivo experiments using this platform have demonstrated the potential of CRISPR-activators (CRISPRa) to treat various loss-of-function diseases, as well as in regenerative medicine, highlighting their versatility to overcome limitations associated with conventional strategies. This review summarises the molecular mechanisms of CRISPRa platforms, the current applications of this technology in vivo, and discusses potential solutions to translational hurdles for this therapy, with a focus on ophthalmic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Wj Ng
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria K Kaukonen
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.
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3
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Satcho E, Snyder VC, Dansingani KK, Liasis A, Kedia N, Gofas-Salas E, Chhablani J, Martel JN, Sahel JA, Paques M, Rossi EA, Errera MH. ADAPTIVE OPTICS AND MULTIMODAL IMAGING FOR INFLAMMATORY VITREORETINAL INTERFACE ABNORMALITIES. Retina 2024; 44:1619-1632. [PMID: 39167583 PMCID: PMC11343090 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004144] [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] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate changes to the vitreoretinal interface in uveitis with multimodal imaging including adaptive optics. METHODS Four eyes (four patients) affected by fovea-attached (subtype 1A) or fovea-sparing epiretinal membranes (ERMs) on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography or visible internal limiting membrane (ILM) on infrared scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) fundus imaging were recruited in this pilot study. The microstructure of the vitreoretinal interface was imaged using flood-illumination adaptive optics (FIAO), and the images were compared with the cross-sectional spectral-domain optical coherence tomography data. RESULTS Adaptive optics images revealed multiple abnormalities of the vitreoretinal interface, such as deep linear striae in ERM, and hyperreflective microstructures at the location of ERMs and ILMs. The cone mosaic was imaged by FIAO and was found altered in the four eyes with ERMs or visible ILM. The same four eyes presented alteration of photopic 30 Hz flicker that was reduced in amplitude indicating cone inner retinal layer dysfunction. CONCLUSION FIAO imaging can identify specific patterns associated with ERMs and ILMs. Correlating FIAO imaging of the vitreomacular interface with the structural alterations seen in FIAO at the level of the outer retinal structures can help understand the cause of significant macular dysfunction associated with ERM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Satcho
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Valerie C. Snyder
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kunal K. Dansingani
- INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universities, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Alki Liasis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Nikita Kedia
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Elena Gofas-Salas
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph N. Martel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michel Paques
- INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universities, Paris, Île-de-France, France
- INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Ethan A. Rossi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marie-Helene Errera
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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4
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Zhang Y, Watson S, Ramaswamy Y, Singh G. Intravitreal therapeutic nanoparticles for age-related macular degeneration: Design principles, progress and opportunities. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 329:103200. [PMID: 38788306 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103200] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly. The current standard treatment for AMD involves frequent intravitreal administrations of therapeutic agents. While effective, this approach presents challenges, including patient discomfort, inconvenience, and the risk of adverse complications. Nanoparticle-based intravitreal drug delivery platforms offer a promising solution to overcome these limitations. These platforms are engineered to target the retina specifically and control drug release, which enhances drug retention, improves drug concentration and bioavailability at the retinal site, and reduces the frequency of injections. This review aims to uncover the design principles guiding the development of highly effective nanoparticle-based intravitreal drug delivery platforms for AMD treatment. By gaining a deeper understanding of the physiology of ocular barriers and the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles, we establish a basis for designing intravitreal nanoparticles to optimize drug delivery and drug retention in the retina. Furthermore, we review recent nanoparticle-based intravitreal therapeutic strategies to highlight their potential in improving AMD treatment efficiency. Lastly, we address the challenges and opportunities in this field, providing insights into the future of nanoparticle-based drug delivery to improve therapeutic outcomes for AMD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Zhang
- The School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of IT and Engineering, Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Stephanie Watson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Clinical Ophthalmology and Eye Health, Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Yogambha Ramaswamy
- The School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of IT and Engineering, Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Gurvinder Singh
- The School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of IT and Engineering, Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia.
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5
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Ahn S, Siontas O, Koester J, Krol J, Fauser S, Müller DJ. Magnetically Guided Adeno-Associated Virus Delivery for the Spatially Targeted Transduction of Retina in Eyes. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401577. [PMID: 38848510 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401577] [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: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are intensively explored for gene therapies in general and have found promising applications for treating retina diseases. However, controlling the specificity (tropism) and delivery of AAVs to selected layers, cell types, and areas of the retina is a major challenge to further develop retinal gene therapies. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) provide effective delivery platforms to magnetically guide therapeutics to target cells. Yet, how MNPs can deliver AAVs to transfect particular retina layers and cells remains elusive. Here, it is demonstrated that MNPs can be used to transport different AAVs through the retina and to modulate the selective transduction of specific retinal layers or photoreceptor cells in ex vivo porcine explants and whole eyes. Thereby, transduction is triggered by bringing the viruses in close proximity to the target cell layer and by controlling their interaction time. It is shown that this magnetically guided approach to transport AAVs to selected areas and layers of the retina does not require the cell-specific optimization of the AAV tropism. It is anticipated that the new approach to control the delivery of AAVs and to selectively transduce cellular systems can be applied to many other tissues or organs to selectively deliver genes of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungkuk Ahn
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Basel, 4056, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Siontas
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Basel, 4056, Switzerland
| | - Janis Koester
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Department of Ophthalmology, Basel, 4070, Switzerland
| | - Jacek Krol
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Department of Ophthalmology, Basel, 4070, Switzerland
| | - Sascha Fauser
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Department of Ophthalmology, Basel, 4070, Switzerland
| | - Daniel J Müller
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Basel, 4056, Switzerland
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6
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Prabhu V, Yadav NK, Bavaskar S, Chhablani J, Venkatesh R. Progressive retinoschisis and retinal detachment after uncomplicated macular hole repair surgery. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:NP105-NP110. [PMID: 38291655 DOI: 10.1177/11206721241229118] [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] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report a rare case of progressive retinoschisis and retinal detachment after uncomplicated macular hole (MH) surgery. CASE DESCRIPTION A 67-year-old man with recent onset vision complaints in the right eye (visual acuity - 20/30), was diagnosed with a small idiopathic full-thickness MH. He underwent a 3-port 25G pars plana vitrectomy surgery with internal limiting membrane peeling and air endotamponade. RESULTS MH closed with a normal foveal contour and intact retinal layers by the 1st post operative week and vision improved to 20/20. At the 7th week follow-up period, the patient complained of visual disturbances in his right eye for 2 days. Optical coherence tomography scans revealed development of peripheral retinoschisis which progressed towards the macula over the next 4 weeks. At the 13th week following the retinal surgery, patient developed sudden profound vision loss to hand motions and a total retinal detachment was noted. He underwent a second retinal surgery with retinectomy to the stiff retina and silicone oil endotamponade. At the last follow-up visit 8 weeks after the second surgery, the visual acuity had improved to 20/120 and the retina was well-attached with silicone oil in place. CONCLUSION We present a rare case of progressive retinoschisis and retinal detachment caused by residual ILM contraction after MH repair surgery. To the best of our knowledge, no such complication after MH repair surgery has been reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishma Prabhu
- Department of Retina and Vitreous, Narayana Nethralaya, #121/C, 1st R block, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, India
| | - Naresh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Retina and Vitreous, Narayana Nethralaya, #121/C, 1st R block, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, India
| | - Snehal Bavaskar
- Department of Retina and Vitreous, Narayana Nethralaya, #121/C, 1st R block, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, India
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Medical Retina and Vitreoretinal Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 203 Lothrop Street, Suite 800, Pittsburg, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ramesh Venkatesh
- Department of Retina and Vitreous, Narayana Nethralaya, #121/C, 1st R block, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore, India
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7
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Esposito EP, Han IC, Johnson TV. Gene and cell-based therapies for retinal and optic nerve disease. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 205:243-262. [PMID: 39341657 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-90120-8.00016-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Leading causes of blindness worldwide include neurodegenerative diseases of the retina, which cause irreversible loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors, and optic neuropathies, which result in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death. Because photoreceptor and RGCs do not spontaneously regenerate in mammals, including humans, vision loss from these conditions is, at present, permanent. Recent advances in gene and cell-based therapies have provided new hope to patients affected by these conditions. This chapter reviews the current state and future of these approaches to treating ocular neurodegenerative disease. Gene therapies for retinal degeneration and optic neuropathies primarily focus on correcting known pathogenic mutations that cause inherited conditions to halt progression. There are multiple retinal and optic neuropathy gene therapies in clinical trials, and one retinal gene therapy is approved in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. Cell-based therapies are mutation agnostic and have the potential to repopulate neurons regardless of the underlying etiology of degeneration. While photoreceptor cell replacement is nearing a human clinical trial, RPE transplantation is currently in phase I/II clinical trials. RGC replacement faces numerous logistical challenges, but preclinical research has laid the foundation for functional repair of optic neuropathies to be feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward P Esposito
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ian C Han
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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8
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Chou HD, Shiah SG, Chuang LH, Wu WC, Hwang YS, Chen KJ, Kang EYC, Yeung L, Nien CY, Lai CC. MicroRNA-152-3p and MicroRNA-196a-5p Are Downregulated When Müller Cells Are Promoted by Components of the Internal Limiting Membrane: Implications for Macular Hole Healing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17188. [PMID: 38139016 PMCID: PMC10743628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417188] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Müller cells play a critical role in the closure of macular holes, and their proliferation and migration are facilitated by the internal limiting membrane (ILM). Despite the importance of this process, the underlying molecular mechanism remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of ILM components on the microRNA (miRNA) profile of Müller cells. Rat Müller cells (rMC-1) were cultured with a culture insert and varying concentrations of ILM component coatings, namely, collagen IV, laminin, and fibronectin, and cell migration was assessed by measuring cell-free areas in successive photographs following insert removal. MiRNAs were then extracted from these cells and analyzed. Mimics and inhibitors of miRNA candidates were transfected into Müller cells, and a cell migration assay and additional cell viability assays were performed. The results revealed that the ILM components promoted Müller cell migration (p < 0.01). Among the miRNA candidates, miR-194-3p was upregulated, whereas miR-125b-1-3p, miR-132-3p, miR-146b-5p, miR-152-3p, miR-196a-5p, miR-542-5p, miR-871-3p, miR-1839-5p, and miR-3573-3p were significantly downregulated (p < 0.05; fold change > 1.5). Moreover, miR-152-3p and miR-196a-5p reduced cell migration (p < 0.05) and proliferation (p < 0.001), and their suppressive effects were reversed by their respective inhibitors. In conclusion, miRNAs were regulated in ILM component-activated Müller cells, with miR-152-3p and miR-196a-5p regulating Müller cell migration and proliferation. These results serve as a basis for understanding the molecular healing process of macular holes and identifying potential new target genes in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Da Chou
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan; (H.-D.C.); (S.-G.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan
| | - Shine-Gwo Shiah
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan; (H.-D.C.); (S.-G.S.)
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 35053, Taiwan
| | - Lan-Hsin Chuang
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 20401, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
| | - Yih-Shiou Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
| | - Kuan-Jen Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
| | - Eugene Yu-Chuan Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
| | - Ling Yeung
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 20401, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Yi Nien
- Department of Life Sciences, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan; (H.-D.C.); (S.-G.S.)
| | - Chi-Chun Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Main Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (W.-C.W.); (Y.-S.H.); (K.-J.C.); (E.Y.-C.K.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (L.-H.C.); (L.Y.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung 20401, Taiwan
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9
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Zhang KY, Nagalingam A, Mary S, Aguzzi EA, Li W, Chetla N, Smith B, Paulaitis ME, Edwards MM, Quigley HA, Zack DJ, Johnson TV. Rare intercellular material transfer as a confound to interpreting inner retinal neuronal transplantation following internal limiting membrane disruption. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:2203-2221. [PMID: 37802075 PMCID: PMC10679651 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.09.005] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercellular cytoplasmic material transfer (MT) occurs between transplanted and developing photoreceptors and ambiguates cell origin identification in developmental, transdifferentiation, and transplantation experiments. Whether MT is a photoreceptor-specific phenomenon is unclear. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) replacement, through transdifferentiation or transplantation, holds potential for restoring vision in optic neuropathies. During careful assessment for MT following human stem cell-derived RGC transplantation into mice, we identified RGC xenografts occasionally giving rise to labeling of donor-derived cytoplasmic, nuclear, and mitochondrial proteins within recipient Müller glia. Critically, nuclear organization is distinct between human and murine retinal neurons, which enables unequivocal discrimination of donor from host cells. MT was greatly facilitated by internal limiting membrane disruption, which also augments retinal engraftment following transplantation. Our findings demonstrate that retinal MT is not unique to photoreceptors and challenge the isolated use of species-specific immunofluorescent markers for xenotransplant identification. Assessment for MT is critical when analyzing neuronal replacement interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y Zhang
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arumugam Nagalingam
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stella Mary
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Erika A Aguzzi
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Weifeng Li
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nitin Chetla
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Barbara Smith
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael E Paulaitis
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Malia M Edwards
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Harry A Quigley
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Donald J Zack
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology and Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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10
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Schwartz MK, Likhite S, Vetter TA, Baird MC, McGovern V, Sierra Delgado A, Mendel T, Burghes A, Meyer KC. In-depth comparison of Anc80L65 and AAV9 retinal targeting and characterization of cross-reactivity to multiple AAV serotypes in humans. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:16-29. [PMID: 37746244 PMCID: PMC10512013 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Anc80L65 is a synthetic, ancestral adeno-associated virus that has high tropism toward retinal photoreceptors after subretinal injection in mice and non-human primates. We characterized, for the first time, the post-intravitreal cell-specific transduction profile of Anc80L65 compared with AAV9. Here we use Anc80L65 and AAV9 to intravitreally deliver a copy of the gene encoding GFP into WT C57Bl/6J mice. GFP expression was driven by one of two clinically relevant promoters, chicken β actin (CB) or truncated MECP2 (P546). After qualitative assessment of relative GFP expression, we found Anc80L65 and AAV9 to have similar transduction profiles. Through the development of a novel method for quantifying GFP-positive retinal cells, we found Anc80L65 to have higher tropism in Müller glia and AAV9 to have higher tropism in horizontal cells. In addition, we found P546 to promote GFP expression at a more moderate level compared with the high levels seen under the CB promoter. Finally, for the first time, we characterized Anc80L65 cross-reactivity in human sera; 83% of patients with AAV2 pre-existing antibodies were found to be seropositive for Anc80L65. This study demonstrates the expanded therapeutic applications of Anc80L65 to treat retinal disease and provides the first insights to Anc80L65 pre-existing immunity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura K. Schwartz
- The Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Shibi Likhite
- The Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tatyana A. Vetter
- The Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Megan C. Baird
- The Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Vicki McGovern
- Department of Neurology, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Tom Mendel
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Arthur Burghes
- Department of Neurology, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathrin C. Meyer
- The Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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11
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Muller YG, Lenoble P. [Clinical and pathophysiological contribution of OCT-angiography to epiretinal membranes]. J Fr Ophtalmol 2023; 46:776-790. [PMID: 37164872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2023.01.028] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Epiretinal membranes may lead to centripetal contraction forces on the retina and its vessels. OCT-Angiography (OCT-A) is a recent tool which permits a non-invasive understanding of these vascular changes. This review focuses on the OCT-A findings in idiopathic epiretinal membranes, before and after surgery, and the role of internal limiting membrane peeling. It appears that contraction of the epiretinal membrane is associated with both a reduction in the area and perimeter of the foveal avascular zone and alterations in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses. These changes mainly reflect a vascular shift from the perifoveal to the foveal region, increasing with retinal deformation, but also probable dynamic changes in vascular flow. Membrane peeling allows at least partial improvement of these microvascular parameters. Nevertheless, some limitations of OCT-A, such as segmentation errors on a retina with highly modified architecture, can lead to a selection bias in the studies and should call for caution in the interpretation of the results. Finally, internal limiting membrane peeling contributes to changes in the retinal architecture after surgery, in particular by causing a centripetal movement of the macular capillaries and a displacement of the fovea toward the optic nerve head. This role should be clarified in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-G Muller
- Université Louis-Pasteur, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
| | - P Lenoble
- Hôpital Pasteur, 68000 Colmar, France
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12
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Pan Q, Lu S, Li M, Pan H, Wang L, Mao Y, Wu W, Zhang Y. Vitrectomy and ILM peeling in rhesus macaque: pitfalls and tips for success. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2257-2264. [PMID: 36443497 PMCID: PMC10366348 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02327-5] [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: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The non-human primate (NHP) model is ideal for pre-clinical testing of novel therapies for human retinal diseases due to its similarity to the human visual system. However, intra-ocular delivery of gene therapy or cell transplantation to the retina gets hampered by the sticky vitreous body and poorly permeable inner limiting membrane (ILM) in primates. Although vitrectomy and ILM peeling are commonly performed in patients, many pitfalls exist in carrying out these procedures in the rhesus macaque, which have not been reported previously. METHODS We summarised common surgical pitfalls after performing vitrectomy and ILM peeling in four eyes of two rhesus macaques (one male and one female). We provided corresponding hands-on technical tips based on our surgical experience and literature search. Orbital CT scans were compared between adult rhesus macaques and humans. High-resolution surgical videos were recorded to demonstrate each critical surgical step. RESULTS Due to size difference, poor post-operative compliance, and high-standard requirements of a controlled experiment, there were eleven common surgical pitfalls during vitrectomy and ILM peeling in rhesus macaque. Falling into these pitfalls may produce discomfort, add fatigue, cause surgical complications, or even lead to the exclusion of the NHP from an experimental group. CONCLUSION Recognition and circumvention of these pitfalls during vitrectomy and ILM peeling in NHP are essential. By focusing on these surgical pitfalls, we can better carry out preclinical tests of novel therapies for retinal diseases in the NHP model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qintuo Pan
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Shengjian Lu
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Mengyun Li
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Huirong Pan
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Lixu Wang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yiyang Mao
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wencan Wu
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Yikui Zhang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
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13
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Johnson TV, Calkins DJ, Fortune B, Goldberg JL, La Torre A, Lamba DA, Meyer JS, Reh TA, Wallace VA, Zack DJ, Baranov P. The importance of unambiguous cell origin determination in neuronal repopulation studies. iScience 2023; 26:106361. [PMID: 37009209 PMCID: PMC10060674 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106361] [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: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal repopulation achieved through transplantation or transdifferentiation from endogenous sources holds tremendous potential for restoring function in chronic neurodegenerative disease or acute injury. Key to the evaluation of neuronal engraftment is the definitive discrimination of new or donor neurons from preexisting cells within the host tissue. Recent work has identified mechanisms by which genetically encoded donor cell reporters can be transferred to host neurons through intercellular material transfer. In addition, labeling transplanted and endogenously transdifferentiated neurons through viral vector transduction can yield misexpression in host cells in some circumstances. These issues can confound the tracking and evaluation of repopulated neurons in regenerative experimental paradigms. Using the retina as an example, we discuss common reasons for artifactual labeling of endogenous host neurons with donor cell reporters and suggest strategies to prevent erroneous conclusions based on misidentification of cell origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas V. Johnson
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cellular & Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David J. Calkins
- The Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Brad Fortune
- Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute and Legacy Research Institute, Legacy Healthy, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jeffrey L. Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Anna La Torre
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Deepak A. Lamba
- Department of Ophthalmology and The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jason S. Meyer
- Departments of Medical & Molecular Genetics, Ophthalmology (Glick Eye Institute), Pharmacology & Toxicology, and Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Thomas A. Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Valerie A. Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Departments of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, and Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Donald J. Zack
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology & Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Petr Baranov
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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14
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Madhoun S, Martins MTC, Korneva A, Johnson TV, Kimball E, Quillen S, Pease ME, Edwards M, Quigley H. Effects of experimental glaucoma in Lama1 nmf223 mutant mice. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109341. [PMID: 36476399 PMCID: PMC10204621 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To identify changes in response to experimental intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation associated with the laminin α1 nmf223 mutation in mice. Laminin mutant (LM) mice (Lama1nmf223) and C57BL/6J (B6) mice in two age groups each (4-5 months and >1 year) underwent intracameral microbead injections to produce unilaterally elevated IOP. We assessed axonal transport block of immunofluorescently labeled amyloid precursor protein (APP) after 3 days and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon loss after 6 weeks. Light, electron and fluorescent microscopy was used to study baseline anatomic differences and effects of 3-day IOP elevation in younger LM mice. In younger mice of both LM and B6 strains, elevated IOP led to increased APP block in the retina, prelaminar optic nerve head (preONH), unmyelinated optic nerve (UON), and myelinated optic nerve (MON). APP blockade not significantly different between younger B6 and LM mouse strains. Older LM mice had greater APP accumulation in both control and glaucoma eyes compared to older B6, however, accumulation was not significantly greater in LM glaucoma eyes compared to LM controls. Axon loss at 6 weeks was 12.2% in younger LM and 18.7% in younger B6 mice (difference between strains, p = 0.22, Mann Whitney test). Untreated LM optic nerve area was lower compared to B6 (nerve area, p < 0.0001, t-test). Aberrant axon bundles, as well as defects, thickening and reduplication of pia mater, were seen in the optic nerves of younger LM mice. Axonal transport blockade significantly differed between old B6 and old LM mice in control and glaucoma eyes, and younger LM mice had abnormal axon paths and lower optic nerve area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salaheddine Madhoun
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | - Arina Korneva
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kimball
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Quillen
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mary Ellen Pease
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Malia Edwards
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Harry Quigley
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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Serjanov D, Hyde DR. Extracellular Matrix: The Unexplored Aspects of Retinal Pathologies and Regeneration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1415:309-317. [PMID: 37440050 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-27681-1_45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Nearly a billion people worldwide are affected by vision-impairing conditions, with retinal degenerative diseases being a major cause of blindness. Unfortunately, such diseases are often permanent and progressive, resulting in further degeneration and loss of sight, due to the human retina possessing little, if any, regenerative capacity. Despite numerous efforts and great progress being made to understand the molecular mechanisms of these diseases and possible therapies, the majority of investigations focused on cell-intrinsic factors. However, the microenvironment surrounding retinal cells throughout these processes also plays an important role, though our current understanding of its involvement remains limited. Here we present a brief overview of the current state of the field of extracellular matrix studies within the retina and its potential roles in retinal diseases and potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitri Serjanov
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - David R Hyde
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
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16
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Lee D, Kwak G, Johnson TV, Suk JS. Formulation and Evaluation of Polymer-Based Nanoparticles for Intravitreal Gene-Delivery Applications. Curr Protoc 2022; 2:e607. [PMID: 36469609 PMCID: PMC9731353 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.607] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The advent of the first-ever retinal gene therapy product, involving subretinal administration of a virus-based gene delivery platform, has garnered hope that this state-of-the-art therapeutic modality may benefit a broad spectrum of patients with diverse retinal disorders. On the other hand, clinical studies have revealed limitations of the applied delivery strategy that may restrict its universal use. To this end, intravitreal administration of synthetic gene-delivery platforms, such as polymer-based nanoparticles (PNPs), has emerged as an attractive alternative to the current mainstay. To achieve success, however, it is imperative that synthetic platforms overcome key biological barriers in human eyes encountered following intravitreal administration, including the vitreous gel and inner limiting membrane (ILM). Here, we introduce a series of experiments, from the fabrication of PNPs to a comprehensive evaluation in relevant experimental models, to determine whether PNPs overcome these barriers and efficiently deliver therapeutic gene payloads to retinal cells. We conclude the article by discussing a few important considerations for successful implementation of the strategy. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Preparation and characterization of PNPs Basic Protocol 2: Evaluation of in vitro transfection efficacy Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of PNP diffusion in vitreous gel Basic Protocol 4: Ex vivo assessment of PNP penetration within vitreoretinal explant culture Basic Protocol 5: Assessment of in vivo transgene expression mediated by intravitreally administered PNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiheon Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Gijung Kwak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Thomas V. Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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17
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Photodisruption of the Inner Limiting Membrane: Exploring ICG Loaded Nanoparticles as Photosensitizers. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081716. [PMID: 36015342 PMCID: PMC9416162 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The inner limiting membrane (ILM) represents a major bottleneck hampering efficient drug delivery to the retina after intravitreal injection. To overcome this barrier, we intend to perforate the ILM by use of a light-based approach which relies on the creation of vapor nanobubbles (VNBs) when irradiating photosensitizers with high intensity laser pulses. Upon collapse of these VNBs, mechanical effects can disrupt biological structures. As a photosensitizer, we explore indocyanine green (ICG) loaded nanoparticles (NPs) specifically designed for our application. In light of this, ICG liposomes and PLGA ICG NPs were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties, ICG incorporation and VNB formation. ICG liposomes were found to encapsulate significantly higher amounts of ICG compared to PLGA ICG NPs which is reflected in their VNB creating capacity. Since only ICG liposomes were able to induce VNB generation, this class of NPs was further investigated on retinal explants. Here, application of ICG liposomes followed by laser treatment resulted in subtle disruption effects at the ILM where zones of fully ablated ILM were alternated by intact regions. As the interaction between the ICG liposomes and ILM might be insufficient, active targeting strategies or other NP designs might improve the concept to a further extent.
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18
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Nanjappa R, Dilbeck MD, Economides JR, Horton JC. Fundus imaging of retinal ganglion cells transduced by retrograde transport of rAAV2-retro. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:109084. [PMID: 35460667 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Access of adeno-associated virus (AAV) to ganglion cells following intravitreal injection for gene therapy is impeded by the internal limiting membrane of the retina. As an alternative, one could transduce ganglion cells via retrograde transport after virus injection into a retinal target nucleus. It is unknown if recombinant AAV2-retro (rAAV2-retro), a variant of AAV2 developed specifically for retrograde transport, is capable of transducing retinal ganglion cells. To address this issue, equal volumes of rAAV2-retro-hSyn-EGFP and rAAV2-retro-hSyn-mCherry were mixed in a micropipette and injected into the rat superior colliculus. The time-course of viral transduction was tracked by performing serial in vivo fundus imaging. Cells that were labeled by the fluorophores within the first week remained consistent in distribution and relative signal strength on follow-up imaging. Most transduced cells were double-labeled, but some were labeled by only EGFP or mCherry. Fundus images were later aligned with retinal wholemounts. Ganglion cells in the wholemounts matched precisely the cells imaged by fundus photography. As seen in the fundus images, ganglion cells in wholemounts were sometimes labeled by only EGFP or mCherry. Overall, there was detectable label in 32-41% of ganglion cells. Analysis of the number of cells labeled by 0, 1, or 2 fluorophores, based on Poisson statistics, yielded an average of 0.66 virions transducing each ganglion cell. Although this represents a low number relative to the quantity of virus injected into the superior colliculus, the ganglion cells showed sustained and robust fluorescent labeling. In the primate, injection of rAAV2-retro into the lateral geniculate nucleus might provide a viable approach for the transduction of ganglion cells, bypassing the obstacles that have prevented effective gene delivery via intravitreal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Nanjappa
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Mikayla D Dilbeck
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - John R Economides
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Jonathan C Horton
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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19
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Gibbons A, Henderson AD. Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: Challenges for the Future. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022; 2:848710. [PMID: 38983540 PMCID: PMC11182325 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2022.848710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gibbons
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Amanda D Henderson
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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20
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Jiang H, Yan B, Meng Z, Zhang L, Lei H, Luo J. The MDM2 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism T309G Is Associated With the Development of Epimacular Membranes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:841660. [PMID: 35359434 PMCID: PMC8963840 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.841660] [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: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the role of the mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) gene single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) T309G in the development of epimacular membranes (EMMs) by analyzing the genotype distribution and consistency of the polymorphism in paired membrane-blood samples. Methods: This was a cross–sectional genetic association study of patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) or EMMs. PVR membranes (PVRMs), internal limiting membranes (ILMs) (PVR-ILMs) and blood samples (PVR-blood) from patients with PVR, and EMMs, EMM-ILMs and EMM-blood from patients with EMMs were collected. The genotype of all samples was determined by Sanger sequencing. Sex composition, mean age, the genotype distribution of MDM2 T309G, the allelic frequency of the MDM2 SNP309 G allele (% G) and the somatic mutation rate at the MDM2 T309G locus (% M) were analyzed and compared. The PVR and healthy Chinese donor groups were used as controls for different comparisons. Results: The EMM group of 62 patients was older than the PVR group of 61 patients by an average of 8.87 years (p < 0.0001), but the two groups were statistically similar in the sex composition (p = 0.1754). Importantly, G allele carriers were at a higher risk of developing EMMs than non-G allele carriers (p = 0.0479; OR = 2.047). Moreover, EMM-blood exhibited a significantly higher % G than blood samples from healthy Chinese donors (EMM-blood: 56.78%, donors: 45.61%; p = 0.0256; OR = 1.567). Regarding membrane-blood consistency, % M was significantly different between PVRMs and EMMs (PVRMs: 2.63%, EMMs: 21.57%; p = 0.0097; OR = 10.18) but not between different types of ILMs (PVR-ILMs: 18.18%, EMM-ILMs: 29.17%; p = 0.6855). Furthermore, EMMs (p = 0.0053; OR = 8.250) and EMM-ILMs (p = 0.0233; OR = 14.40) from patients with preoperative macular holes were more predisposed toward somatic mutations at the MDM2 T309G locus than those from patients without preoperative macular holes. Conclusions:MDM2 T309G is associated with the development of EMMs. Herein, the MDM2 SNP309 G allele is first reported as an associated factor of EMMs in a Chinese population. In addition, EMMs and ILMs are genetically unstable at the MDM2 T309G locus, especially when complicated with preoperative macular holes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhishang Meng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lusi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hetian Lei
- Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Hetian Lei, , Jing Luo,
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Hetian Lei, , Jing Luo,
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21
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Retinal Ganglion Cell Transplantation: Approaches for Overcoming Challenges to Functional Integration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061426. [PMID: 34200991 PMCID: PMC8228580 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the central nervous system, mammalian retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) lack significant regenerative capacity. Glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging RGCs and their axons, which compose the optic nerve. To functionally restore vision, lost RGCs must be replaced. Despite tremendous advancements in experimental models of optic neuropathy that have elucidated pathways to induce endogenous RGC neuroprotection and axon regeneration, obstacles to achieving functional visual recovery through exogenous RGC transplantation remain. Key challenges include poor graft survival, low donor neuron localization to the host retina, and inadequate dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis with afferent amacrine and bipolar cells. In this review, we summarize the current state of experimental RGC transplantation, and we propose a set of standard approaches to quantifying and reporting experimental outcomes in order to guide a collective effort to advance the field toward functional RGC replacement and optic nerve regeneration.
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