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Baqué-Vidal L, Main H, Petrus-Reurer S, Lederer AR, Beri NE, Bär F, Metzger H, Zhao C, Efstathopoulos P, Saietz S, Wrona A, Jaberi E, Willenbrock H, Reilly H, Hedenskog M, Moussaud-Lamodière E, Kvanta A, Villaescusa JC, La Manno G, Lanner F. Clinically compliant cryopreservation of differentiated retinal pigment epithelial cells. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:340-350. [PMID: 38349309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of blindness in elderly patients within developed countries, affecting more than 190 million worldwide. In AMD, the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell layer progressively degenerates, resulting in subsequent loss of photoreceptors and ultimately vision. There is currently no cure for AMD, but therapeutic strategies targeting the complement system are being developed to slow the progression of the disease. METHODS Replacement therapy with pluripotent stem cell-derived (hPSC) RPEs is an alternative treatment strategy. A cell therapy product must be produced in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices at a sufficient scale to facilitate extensive pre-clinical and clinical testing. Cryopreservation of the final cell product is therefore highly beneficial, as the manufacturing, pre-clinical and clinical testing can be separated in time and location. RESULTS We found that mature hPSC-RPE cells do not survive conventional cryopreservation techniques. However, replating the cells 2-5 days before cryopreservation facilitates freezing. The replated and cryopreserved hPSC-RPE cells maintained their identity, purity and functionality as characteristic RPEs, shown by cobblestone morphology, pigmentation, transcriptional profile, RPE markers, transepithelial resistance and pigment epithelium-derived factor secretion. Finally, we showed that the optimal replating time window can be tracked noninvasively by following the change in cobblestone morphology. CONCLUSIONS The possibility of cryopreserving the hPSC-RPE product has been instrumental in our efforts in manufacturing and performing pre-clinical testing with the aim for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baqué-Vidal
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Heather Main
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Petrus-Reurer
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alex R Lederer
- Laboratory of Neurodevelopmental Systems Biology, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nefeli-Eirini Beri
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frederik Bär
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hugo Metzger
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Sarah Saietz
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Elham Jaberi
- Cell Therapy R&D, Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark
| | | | - Hazel Reilly
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mona Hedenskog
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Moussaud-Lamodière
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Gioele La Manno
- Laboratory of Neurodevelopmental Systems Biology, Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden; Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Gupta S, Lytvynchuk L, Ardan T, Studenovska H, Sharma R, Faura G, Eide L, Shanker Verma R, Znaor L, Erceg S, Stieger K, Motlik J, Petrovski G, Bharti K. Progress in Stem Cells-Based Replacement Therapy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Vitro Differentiation to In Vivo Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:536-552. [PMID: 37459045 PMCID: PMC10427969 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a critical cell monolayer forming the blood-retina-barrier (BRB) and a permeable bridge between the choriocapillaris and the retina. RPE is also crucial in maintaining photoreceptor function and for completing the visual cycle. Loss of the RPE is associated with the development of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To treat diseases like AMD, pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (pRPE) has been recently explored extensively as a regenerative module. pRPE like other ectodermal tissues requires specific lineage differentiation and long-term in vitro culturing for maturation. Therefore, understanding the differentiation process of RPE could be useful for stem cell-based RPE derivation. Developing pRPE-based transplants and delivering them into the subretinal space is another aspect that has garnered interest in the last decade. In this review, we discuss the basic strategies currently employed for stem cell-based RPE derivation, their delivery, and recent clinical studies related to pRPE transplantation in patients. We have also discussed a few limitations with in vitro RPE culture and potential solutions to overcome such problems which can be helpful in developing functional RPE tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Gupta
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Karl Landsteiner Institute for Retinal Research and Imaging, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Studenovska
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioanalogous Systems, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Faura
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rama Shanker Verma
- Stem Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences. Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ljubo Znaor
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Research Center “Principe Felipe,” Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Knut Stieger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan Motlik
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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3
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Vitillo L, Anjum F, Hewitt Z, Stavish D, Laing O, Baker D, Barbaric I, Coffey P. The isochromosome 20q abnormality of pluripotent cells interrupts germ layer differentiation. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:782-797. [PMID: 36801002 PMCID: PMC10031278 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosome 20 abnormalities are some of the most frequent genomic changes acquired by human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) cultures worldwide. Yet their effects on differentiation remain largely unexplored. We investigated a recurrent abnormality also found on amniocentesis, the isochromosome 20q (iso20q), during a clinical retinal pigment epithelium differentiation. Here we show that the iso20q abnormality interrupts spontaneous embryonic lineage specification. Isogenic lines revealed that under conditions that promote the spontaneous differentiation of wild-type hPSCs, the iso20q variants fail to differentiate into primitive germ layers and to downregulate pluripotency networks, resulting in apoptosis. Instead, iso20q cells are highly biased for extra-embryonic/amnion differentiation following inhibition of DNMT3B methylation or BMP2 treatment. Finally, directed differentiation protocols can overcome the iso20q block. Our findings reveal in iso20q a chromosomal abnormality that impairs the developmental competency of hPSCs toward germ layers but not amnion, which models embryonic developmental bottlenecks in the presence of aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loriana Vitillo
- Rescue, Repair and Regeneration, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, EC1V 9EL London, UK.
| | - Fabiha Anjum
- Rescue, Repair and Regeneration, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, EC1V 9EL London, UK
| | - Zoe Hewitt
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, S10 2TN Sheffield, UK
| | - Dylan Stavish
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, S10 2TN Sheffield, UK
| | - Owen Laing
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, S10 2TN Sheffield, UK
| | - Duncan Baker
- Sheffield Diagnostic Genetic Services, Sheffield Children's Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ivana Barbaric
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, S10 2TN Sheffield, UK
| | - Pete Coffey
- Rescue, Repair and Regeneration, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, EC1V 9EL London, UK; Centre for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
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4
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Liu Q, Liu J, Higuchi A. hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of macular degeneration. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 199:227-269. [PMID: 37678973 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Macular degeneration (MD) is a group of diseases characterized by irreversible and progressive vision loss. Patients with MD suffer from severely impaired central vision, especially elderly people. Currently, only one type of MD, wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), can be treated with anti-vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) drugs. Other types of MD remain difficult to treat. With the advent of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) and their differentiation into retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), it is promising to treat patients with MD by transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE into the subretinal space. In this review, the current progress in hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of patients with MD is described from bench to bedside, including hPSC differentiation into RPE and the characterization and usage of hPSC-derived RPE for transplantation into patients with MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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5
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Karamali F, Behtaj S, Babaei-Abraki S, Hadady H, Atefi A, Savoj S, Soroushzadeh S, Najafian S, Nasr Esfahani MH, Klassen H. Potential therapeutic strategies for photoreceptor degeneration: the path to restore vision. J Transl Med 2022; 20:572. [PMID: 36476500 PMCID: PMC9727916 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs), as the most abundant and light-sensing cells of the neuroretina, are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. PR degeneration, including morphological and functional impairment of these cells, causes significant diminution of the retina's ability to detect light, with consequent loss of vision. Recent findings in ocular regenerative medicine have opened promising avenues to apply neuroprotective therapy, gene therapy, cell replacement therapy, and visual prostheses to the challenge of restoring vision. However, successful visual restoration in the clinical setting requires application of these therapeutic approaches at the appropriate stage of the retinal degeneration. In this review, firstly, we discuss the mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying cell death. Subsequently, innovations, recent developments, and promising treatments based on the stage of disorder progression are further explored. Then, the challenges to be addressed before implementation of these therapies in clinical practice are considered. Finally, potential solutions to overcome the current limitations of this growing research area are suggested. Overall, the majority of current treatment modalities are still at an early stage of development and require extensive additional studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, before full restoration of visual function in PR degeneration diseases can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Karamali
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Behtaj
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia ,grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222 Australia
| | - Shahnaz Babaei-Abraki
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Hadady
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soraya Savoj
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sareh Soroushzadeh
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Najafian
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Henry Klassen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Irvine, CA USA
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6
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Zihni C, Georgiadis A, Ramsden CM, Sanchez-Heras E, Haas AJ, Nommiste B, Semenyuk O, Bainbridge JWB, Coffey PJ, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Balda MS, Matter K. Spatiotemporal control of actomyosin contractility by MRCKβ signaling drives phagocytosis. J Biophys Biochem Cytol 2022; 221:213476. [PMID: 36121394 PMCID: PMC9485704 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202012042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Phagocytosis requires actin dynamics, but whether actomyosin contractility plays a role in this morphodynamic process is unclear. Here, we show that in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), particle binding to Mer Tyrosine Kinase (MerTK), a widely expressed phagocytic receptor, stimulates phosphorylation of the Cdc42 GEF Dbl3, triggering activation of MRCKβ/myosin-II and its coeffector N-WASP, membrane deformation, and cup formation. Continued MRCKβ/myosin-II activity then drives recruitment of a mechanosensing bridge, enabling cytoskeletal force transmission, cup closure, and particle internalization. In vivo, MRCKβ is essential for RPE phagocytosis and retinal integrity. MerTK-independent activation of MRCKβ signaling by a phosphomimetic Dbl3 mutant rescues phagocytosis in retinitis pigmentosa RPE cells lacking functional MerTK. MRCKβ is also required for efficient particle translocation from the cortex into the cell body in Fc receptor–mediated phagocytosis. Thus, conserved MRCKβ signaling at the cortex controls spatiotemporal regulation of actomyosin contractility to guide distinct phases of phagocytosis in the RPE and represents the principle phagocytic effector pathway downstream of MerTK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceniz Zihni
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anastasios Georgiadis
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Gene and Cell Therapy Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Conor M Ramsden
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Alexis J Haas
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Britta Nommiste
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Olha Semenyuk
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Gene and Cell Therapy Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - James W B Bainbridge
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Gene and Cell Therapy Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter J Coffey
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alexander J Smith
- Gene and Cell Therapy Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Gene and Cell Therapy Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria S Balda
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Karl Matter
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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Arthur P, Muok L, Nathani A, Zeng EZ, Sun L, Li Y, Singh M. Bioengineering Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Organoids and Optic Vesicle-Containing Brain Organoids for Ocular Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:3429. [PMID: 36359825 PMCID: PMC9653705 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal organoids are three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) that mimic the retina's spatial and temporal differentiation, making them useful as in vitro retinal development models. Retinal organoids can be assembled with brain organoids, the 3D self-assembled aggregates derived from hPSCs containing different cell types and cytoarchitectures that resemble the human embryonic brain. Recent studies have shown the development of optic cups in brain organoids. The cellular components of a developing optic vesicle-containing organoids include primitive corneal epithelial and lens-like cells, retinal pigment epithelia, retinal progenitor cells, axon-like projections, and electrically active neuronal networks. The importance of retinal organoids in ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt disease, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are described in this review. This review highlights current developments in retinal organoid techniques, and their applications in ocular conditions such as disease modeling, gene therapy, drug screening and development. In addition, recent advancements in utilizing extracellular vesicles secreted by retinal organoids for ocular disease treatments are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Arthur
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Laureana Muok
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Aakash Nathani
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Eric Z. Zeng
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
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8
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Abstract
Sorsby fundus dystrophy (SFD) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder with complete penetrance affecting the macula. This is caused by a mutation in the TIMP-3. This objective narrative review aims to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, current treatment modalities, and future perspectives. A literature search was performed using "PubMed," "Web of Science," "Scopus," "ScienceDirect," "Google Scholar," "medRxiv," and "bioRxiv." The molecular mechanisms underlying SFD are not completely understood. Novel advancements in cell culture techniques, including induced pluripotent stem cells, may enable more reliable modeling of SFD. These cell culture techniques aim to shed more light on the pathophysiology of SFD, and hopefully, this may lead to the future development of treatment strategies for SFD. Currently, no gene therapy is available. The main treatment is the use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) to treat secondary choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV), which is a major complication observed in this condition. If CNV is detected and treated promptly, patients with SFD have a good chance of maintaining a functional central vision. Other treatment modalities have been tried but have shown limited benefit, and therefore, have not managed to be more widely accepted. In summary, although there is no definitive cure yet, the use of anti-VEGF treatment for secondary CNV has provided the opportunity to maintain functional vision in individuals with SFD, provided CNV is detected and treated early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsokolas
- Medical Retina and Uveitis Fellow, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Daniele E, Ferrari B, Rassu N, Ben-Nun J, Bosio L, Barbaro V, Ferrari S, Ponzin D. Comparison of human amniotic membrane decellularisation approaches for hESC-derived RPE cells culture. BMJ Open Ophthalmol 2022; 7:bmjophth-2022-000981. [PMID: 36161850 PMCID: PMC9454075 DOI: 10.1136/bmjophth-2022-000981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Recent clinical studies have shown that the transplantation of functional retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells can prevent the onset of RPE degeneration in age-related macular degeneration. This study aimed to investigate the potential of human amniotic membrane (hAM) as a viable scaffold for the growth and proliferation of pluripotent-derived RPE cells. Methods and analysis Three enzymatic hAM de-epithelialisation methods (thermolysin, trypsin-EDTA and dispase II) were assessed by histological analysis and optical coherence tomography (OCT). We generated RPE cells from a human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line subjected to spontaneous differentiation in feeder-free conditions. The hESC-derived RPE cells were seeded over denuded hAM at a density of 2.0×105 cells/cm2 and maintained in culture for up to 4 weeks. Immnofluorescence was carried out to evaluate the development of a confluent monolayer of RPE cells on the top of the hAM. Conditioned medium was collected to measure pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) concentration by ELISA. Results Laminin α5 and collagen IV staining confirmed the efficiency of the de-epithelialisation process. In particular, thermolysin showed good retention of tissue integrity on OCT images and greater preservation of the hAM basement membrane. The hESC-derived RPE cells formed patches of pigmented cells interspersed along the denuded hAM, but failed to form a regular sheet of RPE cells. These cells expressed typical RPE markers, such as PMEL17 and RPE65, but they secreted low levels of PEDF. Conclusion The biological variability of the hAM could influence the adhesion and the expansion of hESC-derived RPE cells. Further studies are required to verify whether a non-confluent monolayer might represent a limit to transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Daniele
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy .,Venice Eye Bank, Venice, Italy
| | | | - Nicolò Rassu
- Ophthalmic Unit, Ospedale dell'Angelo, Venice, Italy
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10
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Impaired Bestrophin Channel Activity in an iPSC-RPE Model of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) from an Early Onset Patient Carrying the P77S Dominant Mutation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137432. [PMID: 35806438 PMCID: PMC9266689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Best Vitelliform Macular dystrophy (BVMD) is the most prevalent of the distinctive retinal dystrophies caused by mutations in the BEST1 gene. This gene, which encodes for a homopentameric calcium-activated ion channel, is crucial for the homeostasis and function of the retinal pigment epithelia (RPE), the cell type responsible for recycling the visual pigments generated by photoreceptor cells. In BVMD patients, mutations in this gene induce functional problems in the RPE cell layer with an accumulation of lipofucsin that evolves into cell death and loss of sight. In this work, we employ iPSC-RPE cells derived from a patient with the p.Pro77Ser dominant mutation to determine the correlation between this variant and the ocular phenotype. To this purpose, gene and protein expression and localization are evaluated in iPSC-RPE cells along with functional assays like phagocytosis and anion channel activity. Our cell model shows no differences in gene expression, protein expression/localization, or phagocytosis capacity, but presents an increased chloride entrance, indicating that the p.Pro77Ser variant might be a gain-of-function mutation. We hypothesize that this variant disturbs the neck region of the BEST1 channel, affecting channel function but maintaining cell homeostasis in the short term. This data shed new light on the different phenotypes of dominant mutations in BEST1, and emphasize the importance of understanding its molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, the data widen the knowledge of this pathology and open the door for a better diagnosis and prognosis of the disease.
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Soroushzadeh S, Karamali F, Masaeli E, Atefi A, Nasr Esfahani MH. Scaffold free retinal pigment epithelium sheet engineering using modified alginate-RGD hydrogel. J Biosci Bioeng 2022; 133:579-586. [PMID: 35339352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Tissue-specific extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a critical role in cell survival and homeostasis, which are particularly essential for directing differentiation of different complex tissues such as retina. However, ECM maintenance should be considered to design an effective therapeutic strategy for retina regeneration. To achieve this, cell sheet engineering has emerged as a growing approach to closely reconstruct basal membrane of cells through a scaffold-free manner. Several irreversible sight-threatening diseases are characterized by the dysfunction and lose of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), leading to vision loss and eventually total blindness in patients. According to impressive developments in achievement of RPE from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), we obtained RPE cells without any extrinsic factors in a co-culture system, and cultured them on a temporary alginate hydrogel substrate. Subsequently, Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptide was superficially immobilized on the upper layer of hydrogel to improve cell attachment before harvesting sheet layer. RPE cell sheet layer was released by treating pre-seeded hydrogels with sodium citrate as a calcium chelating agent and characterized in both in vitro and in vivo models. RPE sheets formed tight junction and expressed high levels of retina structural markers such as ZO-1, Bestrophin and Collagen type IV. One week after in vivo transplantation of RPE sheet, cells survived in the subretinal space, indicating that our harvesting method is non-invasive. To sum up, we introduced a unique scaffold-free method for RPE cell sheet engineering, which can find potential use for future therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Soroushzadeh
- ACECR Institute of Higher Education (Isfahan Branch), P.O. Box: 84175443, Iran; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, P.O. Box 8159358686, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Karamali
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, P.O. Box 8159358686, Iran
| | - Elahe Masaeli
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, P.O. Box 8159358686, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, P.O. Box 8159358686, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, P.O. Box 8159358686, Iran.
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German OL, Vallese-Maurizi H, Soto TB, Rotstein NP, Politi LE. Retina stem cells, hopes and obstacles. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1446-1479. [PMID: 34786153 PMCID: PMC8567457 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i10.1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a major contributor to visual dysfunction worldwide. Although it comprises several eye diseases, loss of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and photoreceptor cells are the major contributors to their pathogenesis. Early therapies included diverse treatments, such as provision of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and many survival and trophic factors that, in some cases, slow down the progression of the degeneration, but do not effectively prevent it. The finding of stem cells (SC) in the eye has led to the proposal of cell replacement strategies for retina degeneration. Therapies using different types of SC, such as retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), embryonic SC, pluripotent SCs (PSCs), induced PSCs (iPSCs), and mesenchymal stromal cells, capable of self-renewal and of differentiating into multiple cell types, have gained ample support. Numerous preclinical studies have assessed transplantation of SC in animal models, with encouraging results. The aim of this work is to revise the different preclinical and clinical approaches, analyzing the SC type used, their efficacy, safety, cell attachment and integration, absence of tumor formation and immunorejection, in order to establish which were the most relevant and successful. In addition, we examine the questions and concerns still open in the field. The data demonstrate the existence of two main approaches, aimed at replacing either RPE cells or photoreceptors. Emerging evidence suggests that RPCs and iPSC are the best candidates, presenting no ethical concerns and a low risk of immunorejection. Clinical trials have already supported the safety and efficacy of SC treatments. Serious concerns are pending, such as the risk of tumor formation, lack of attachment or integration of transplanted cells into host retinas, immunorejection, cell death, and also ethical. However, the amazing progress in the field in the last few years makes it possible to envisage safe and effective treatments to restore vision loss in a near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga L German
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Harmonie Vallese-Maurizi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tamara B Soto
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nora P Rotstein
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis Enrique Politi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Huang D, Heath Jeffery RC, Aung-Htut MT, McLenachan S, Fletcher S, Wilton SD, Chen FK. Stargardt disease and progress in therapeutic strategies. Ophthalmic Genet 2021; 43:1-26. [PMID: 34455905 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2021.1966053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Stargardt disease (STGD1) is an autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy due to mutations in ABCA4, characterized by subretinal deposition of lipofuscin-like substances and bilateral centrifugal vision loss. Despite the tremendous progress made in the understanding of STGD1, there are no approved treatments to date. This review examines the challenges in the development of an effective STGD1 therapy.Materials and Methods: A literature review was performed through to June 2021 summarizing the spectrum of retinal phenotypes in STGD1, the molecular biology of ABCA4 protein, the in vivo and in vitro models used to investigate the mechanisms of ABCA4 mutations and current clinical trials.Results: STGD1 phenotypic variability remains an challenge for clinical trial design and patient selection. Pre-clinical development of therapeutic options has been limited by the lack of animal models reflecting the diverse phenotypic spectrum of STDG1. Patient-derived cell lines have facilitated the characterization of splice mutations but the clinical presentation is not always predicted by the effect of specific mutations on retinoid metabolism in cellular models. Current therapies primarily aim to delay vision loss whilst strategies to restore vision are less well developed.Conclusions: STGD1 therapy development can be accelerated by a deeper understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Huang
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachael C Heath Jeffery
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - May Thandar Aung-Htut
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sue Fletcher
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Steve D Wilton
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science & the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), the University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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14
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Francelin C, Godoy J, Qi X, Silva JAF, Grant MB, Boulton ME. Characterizing temporal and spatial recruitment of systemically administered RPE65-programmed bone marrow-derived cells to the retina in a mouse model of age-related macular degeneration. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 259:2987-2994. [PMID: 34357416 PMCID: PMC8478769 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05358-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previously, we reported that the intravenous injection of bone marrow-derived cells (BMDC) infected with lentivirus expressing the human RPE65 gene resulted in the programming of BMDC to promote visual recovery in a mouse model of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The aim of this study was to characterize the spatial and temporal recruitment of these programmed BMDC to the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) layer. METHODS C57BL/6J female mice received a subretinal injection of AAV1-SOD2 ribozyme to knock down (KD) superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) and induce AMD-like pathology. BMDC were isolated from GFP+ mice and infected with a lentivirus expressing RPE65. One month after SOD2 KD, fifty thousand GFP+ RPE65-BMDC were injected in the mouse tail vein. Animals were terminated at different time points up to 60 min following cell administration, and localization of GFP+ cells was determined by fluorescence microscopy of neural retina and RPE flat mounts and tissue sections. RESULTS GFP+ RPE65- BMDC were observed in SOD2 KD neural retina and RPE as early as 1 min following administration. With increasing time, the number of cells in the neural retina decreased, while those in the RPE increased. While the number of cells in peripheral and central retina remained similar at each time point, the number of BMDC recruited to the central RPE increased in a time-dependent manner up to a maximum by 60 min post administration. Immunohistochemistry of cross-sections of the RPE layer confirmed the incorporation of donor GFP+ BMDC into the RPE layer and that these GFP+ human RPE65 expressing cells co-localized with murine RPE65. No GFP+ cells were observed in the neural retina or RPE layer of normal uninjured control eyes. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that systemically administered GFP+ RPE65-BMDC can reach the retina within minutes and that the majority of these BMDC are recruited to the injured RPE layer by 60 min post injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Francelin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
| | - Juliana Godoy
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
- Department of Hemotherapy and Cellular Therapy, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Xiaoping Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Juliete A F Silva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Maria B Grant
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Michael E Boulton
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama At Birmingham, 1670 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
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Zhang H, Su B, Jiao L, Xu ZH, Zhang CJ, Nie J, Gao ML, Zhang YV, Jin ZB. Transplantation of GMP-grade human iPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells in rodent model: the first pre-clinical study for safety and efficacy in China. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:245. [PMID: 33708872 PMCID: PMC7940887 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly due in large part to age-dependent atrophy of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. RPE cells form a monolayer located between the choroid and the outer segments of photoreceptors, playing multifarious roles in maintenance of visual function. Allogeneically induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (iPSC-RPE or iRPE) has become a potential approach for providing an abundant source of donors for clinical cell products. Transplantation of iRPE has been proven effective in rescuing impaired retinas in Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats after approximately 5 to 6 weeks. Here, we explore the long-term (19 weeks) safety and efficacy of human iRPE cell transplantation in pre-clinical animal models. Methods The expression of human RPE-specific markers in iRPE cells was determined using immunofluorescence staining. For the proliferative test, Ki-67 expression was also verified by immunofluorescence and flow cytometric analysis. Then, iRPE cells were transplanted into the subretinal space of immune-deficient NOD/SCID/IL-2Rgcnull (NSG) mice to assess their safety. To evaluate whether the transplanted cells could survive and rescue visual function, we performed color fundus photography, focal electroretinogram and immunostaining after delivering iRPE cells into the subretinal space of RCS rats. Results Human iRPE cells expressed native RPE-specific markers, such as microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MiTF), retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65-kDa protein (RPE65) and tight-junction associated structural protein (ZO-1), and their proliferative capacity (Ki-67 expression) was poor after 25 days of induction. A tumorigenicity test revealed no tumor formation or abnormal proliferation in the immunodeficient mice after subretinal injection of 5×105 iRPE cells. The transplanted iRPE cells survived for at least 19 weeks and maintained visual function for 15 weeks. Conclusions In the present study, we provided further evidence for the use of human iRPE transplantation to treat retinal degenerative disease in pre-clinical animal models. Therefore, we consider human iRPE cells a promising source of cell replacement therapy for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.,Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bingnan Su
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Luyan Jiao
- Nuwacell Biotechnologies Co., Ltd, Hefei, China
| | - Ze-Hua Xu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chang-Jun Zhang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jinfu Nie
- Center of Medical Physics and Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Mei-Ling Gao
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | | | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.,National Center for International Research in Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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16
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Sugita S, Mandai M, Kamao H, Takahashi M. Immunological aspects of RPE cell transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 84:100950. [PMID: 33482342 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells have several functions, including support of the neural retina and choroid in the eye and immunosuppression. Cultured human RPE cells directly suppress inflammatory immune cells. For instance, they directly suppress the activation of T cells in vitro. In contrast, transplanted allogeneic human RPE cells are rejected by bystander immune cells such as T cells in vivo. Recently, human embryonic stem cell-derived RPE cells have been used in several clinical trials, and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-RPE cells have also been tested in our clinical study in patients with retinal degeneration. Major safety concerns after stem cell-based transplantation surgery include hyper-proliferation, tumorigenicity, or ectopic tissue formation, but these events have currently not been seen in any of these patients. However, if RPE cells are allogeneic, there are concerns about immune rejection issues that have been raised in previous clinical trials. We therefore performed a preclinical study of allogeneic iPSC-RPE cell transplantation in animal rejection models. We then conducted autogenic or allogeneic iPSC-RPE cell transplantation in clinical studies of patients with age-related macular degeneration. In this review, we focus on immunological studies of RPE cells, including iPSC-derived cells. iPSC-RPE cells have unique inflammatory (immunosuppressive and immunogenic) characteristics like primary cultured RPE cells. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current findings obtained from preclinical (basic research) and clinical studies in iPSC-RPE cell transplantation, especially the immunological aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunao Sugita
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research Kobe, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research Kobe, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kamao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, Okayama, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research Kobe, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Japan
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Cell-Based Therapies for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1256:265-293. [PMID: 33848006 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-66014-7_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. The pathogenesis of AMD involves dysfunction and loss of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a monolayer of cells that provide nourishment and functional support for the overlying photoreceptors. RPE cells in mammals are not known to divide, renew or regenerate in vivo, and in advanced AMD, RPE loss leads to degeneration of the photoreceptors and impairment of vision. One possible therapeutic approach would be to support and replace the failing RPE cells of affected patients, and indeed moderate success of surgical procedures in which relatively healthy autologous RPE from the peripheral retina of the same eye was transplanted under the retina in the macular area suggested that RPE replacement could be a means to attenuate photoreceptor cell loss. This prompted exploration of the possibility to use pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) as a potential source for "healthy and young" RPE cells for such cell-based therapy of AMD. Various approaches ranging from the use of allogeneic embryonic stem cells to autologous induced pluripotent stem cells are now being tested within early clinical trials. Such PSC-derived RPE cells are either injected into the subretinal space as a suspension, or transplanted as a monolayer patch upon scaffold support. Although most of these approaches are at early clinical stages, safety of the RPE product has been demonstrated by several of these studies. Here, we review the concept of cell-based therapy of AMD and provide an update on current progress in the field of RPE transplantation.
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O'Neill HC, Limnios IJ, Barnett NL. Advancing a Stem Cell Therapy for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 15:89-97. [PMID: 31854278 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x15666191218094020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a multifunctional monolayer located at the back of the eye required for the survival and function of the light-sensing photoreceptors. In Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), the loss of RPE cells leads to photoreceptor death and permanent blindness. RPE cell transplantation aims to halt or reverse vision loss by preventing the death of photoreceptor cells and is considered one of the most viable applications of stem cell therapy in the field of regenerative medicine. Proof-of-concept of RPE cell transplantation for treating retinal degenerative disease, such as AMD, has long been established in animal models and humans using primary RPE cells, while recent research has focused on the transplantation of RPE cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC). Early results from clinical trials indicate that transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE cells is safe and can improve vision in AMD patients. Current hPSC-RPE cell production protocols used in clinical trials are nevertheless inefficient. Treatment of large numbers of AMD patients using stem cellderived products may be dependent on the ability to generate functional cells from multiple hPSC lines using robust and clinically-compliant methods. Transplantation outcomes may be improved by delivering RPE cells on a thin porous membrane for better integration into the retina, and by manipulation of the outcome through control of immune rejection and inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen C O'Neill
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast 4229, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ioannis J Limnios
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast 4229, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nigel L Barnett
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast 4229, Queensland, Australia
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Zhang CJ, Ma Y, Jin ZB. The road to restore vision with photoreceptor regeneration. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108283. [PMID: 33010290 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuroretinal diseases are the predominant cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, mainly due to photoreceptor loss. Currently, there are no radical treatments to fully reverse the degeneration or even stop the disease progression. Thus, it is urgent to develop new biological therapeutics for these diseases on the clinical side. Stem cell-based treatments have become a promising therapeutic for neuroretinal diseases through the replacement of damaged cells with photoreceptors and some allied cells. To date, considerable efforts have been made to regenerate the diseased retina based on stem cell technology. In this review, we overview the current status of stem cell-based treatments for photoreceptor regeneration, including the major cell sources derived from different stem cells in pre-clinical or clinical trial stages. Additionally, we discuss herein the major challenges ahead for and potential new strategy toward photoreceptor regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Jun Zhang
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Ya Ma
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Wang Y, Tang Z, Gu P. Stem/progenitor cell-based transplantation for retinal degeneration: a review of clinical trials. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:793. [PMID: 32968042 PMCID: PMC7511341 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02955-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration (RD) is one of the dominant causes of irreversible vision impairment and blindness worldwide. However, the current effective therapeutics for RD in the ophthalmologic clinic are unclear and controversial. In recent years, extensively investigated stem/progenitor cells—including retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs)—with proliferation and multidirectional differentiation potential have presented opportunities to revolutionise the ultimate clinical management of RD. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview on the progression of clinical trials for RD treatment using four types of stem/progenitor cell-based transplantation to replace degenerative retinal cells and/or to supplement trophic factors from the aspects of safety, effectiveness and their respective advantages and disadvantages. In addition, we also discuss the emerging role of stem cells in the secretion of multifunctional nanoscale exosomes by which stem cells could be further exploited as a potential RD therapy. This review will facilitate the understanding of scientists and clinicians of the enormous promise of stem/progenitor cell-based transplantation for RD treatment, and provide incentive for superior employment of such strategies that may be suitable for treatment of other diseases, such as stroke and ischaemia–reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, P.R. China
| | - Ping Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 200011, P.R. China.
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Udry F, Decembrini S, Gamm DM, Déglon N, Kostic C, Arsenijevic Y. Lentiviral mediated RPE65 gene transfer in healthy hiPSCs-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells markedly increased RPE65 mRNA, but modestly protein level. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8890. [PMID: 32483256 PMCID: PMC7264209 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65657-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a monolayer of cobblestone-like epithelial cells that accomplishes critical functions for the retina. Several protocols have been published to differentiate pluripotent stem cells into RPE cells suitable for disease modelling and therapy development. In our study, the RPE identity of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived RPE (iRPE) was extensively characterized, and then used to test a lentiviral-mediated RPE65 gene augmentation therapy. A dose study of the lentiviral vector revealed a dose-dependent effect of the vector on RPE65 mRNA levels. A marked increase of the RPE65 mRNA was also observed in the iRPE (100-fold) as well as in an experimental set with RPE derived from another hiPSC source and from foetal human RPE. Although iRPE displayed features close to bona fide RPE, no or a modest increase of the RPE65 protein level was observed depending on the protein detection method. Similar results were observed with the two other cell lines. The mechanism of RPE65 protein regulation remains to be elucidated, but the current work suggests that high vector expression will not produce an excess of the normal RPE65 protein level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Udry
- Department of ophthalmology, Unit of Retinal Degeneration and Regeneration, University of Lausanne, Hôpital ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, 1004, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Decembrini
- Department of ophthalmology, Unit of Retinal Degeneration and Regeneration, University of Lausanne, Hôpital ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, 1004, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel & University Basel, Hebelstr. 20, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - David M Gamm
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, Waisman Center and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, USA
| | - Nicole Déglon
- Neuroscience Research Center, Laboratory of Neurotherapies and Neuromodulation, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Corinne Kostic
- Department of ophthalmology, Unit of Retinal Degeneration and Regeneration, University of Lausanne, Hôpital ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, 1004, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yvan Arsenijevic
- Department of ophthalmology, Unit of Retinal Degeneration and Regeneration, University of Lausanne, Hôpital ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, 1004, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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22
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Petrus-Reurer S, Winblad N, Kumar P, Gorchs L, Chrobok M, Wagner AK, Bartuma H, Lardner E, Aronsson M, Plaza Reyes Á, André H, Alici E, Kaipe H, Kvanta A, Lanner F. Generation of Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Lacking Human Leukocyte Antigen Class I and II. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 14:648-662. [PMID: 32197113 PMCID: PMC7160308 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (hESC-RPE) cells could serve as a replacement therapy in advanced stages of age-related macular degeneration. However, allogenic hESC-RPE transplants trigger immune rejection, supporting a strategy to evade their immune recognition. We established single-knockout beta-2 microglobulin (SKO-B2M), class II major histocompatibility complex transactivator (SKO-CIITA) and double-knockout (DKO) hESC lines that were further differentiated into corresponding hESC-RPE lines lacking either surface human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) or HLA-II, or both. Activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells was markedly lower by hESC-RPE DKO cells, while natural killer cell cytotoxic response was not increased. After transplantation of SKO-B2M, SKO-CIITA, or DKO hESC-RPEs in a preclinical rabbit model, donor cell rejection was reduced and delayed. In conclusion, we have developed cell lines that lack both HLA-I and -II antigens, which evoke reduced T-cell responses in vitro together with reduced rejection in a large-eyed animal model. hESC-RPEs are immunosuppressive but can elicit T-cell and NK cell responses in vitro hESC-RPEs lacking HLA-I and -II evade T-cell response hESC-RPEs lacking HLA-I and -II do not increase NK cell cytotoxic activity When xeno-transplanted, these immune-modified hESC-RPEs show reduced rejection
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Petrus-Reurer
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Insitutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nerges Winblad
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Insitutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Insitutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laia Gorchs
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Chrobok
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arnika Kathleen Wagner
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hammurabi Bartuma
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emma Lardner
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Monica Aronsson
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Álvaro Plaza Reyes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Insitutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helder André
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Evren Alici
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helen Kaipe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden; Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet, St. Erik Eye Hospital, 11282 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Insitutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden; Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden; Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Stockholm Node, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
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23
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Veritti D, Sarao V, Samassa F, Danese C, Löwenstein A, Schmidt-Erfurth U, Lanzetta P. State-of-the art pharmacotherapy for non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 21:773-784. [PMID: 32153203 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1736557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of blindness among the elderly in the industrialized world. While effective treatment is available for neovascular AMD, no therapy is successful for the non-neovascular form. Herein, the authors report the current knowledge on non-neovascular AMD pathogenesis and the promising research on treatments. AREAS COVERED In the present review, the authors summarize the most recent advances in the treatment of non-neovascular AMD and provide an update on current treatment strategies. Evidence available from preclinical and clinical studies and from a selective literature search is reported. EXPERT OPINION When investigating AMD, numerous pathological cascades and alterations of physiological processes have been investigated. It is well-known that AMD is a multifactorial disease, with environmental causes and genetics playing a role. Perturbations in multiple pathogenic pathways have been identified and this led to the development of several molecules directed at specific therapeutic targets. However, despite the huge research effort, the only proven approach so far is oral antioxidant supplementation. We believe that, in addition to successful advancement of promising drugs, further research should be directed at tailoring therapy to specific patient groups, eventually employing a combinational therapy strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Veritti
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Valentina Sarao
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine , Udine, Italy.,Istituto Europeo Di Microchirurgia Oculare (IEMO) , Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Samassa
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Carla Danese
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine , Udine, Italy
| | - Anat Löwenstein
- Division of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Medical Center , Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Paolo Lanzetta
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine , Udine, Italy.,Istituto Europeo Di Microchirurgia Oculare (IEMO) , Udine, Italy
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24
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Garita-Hernandez M, Routet F, Guibbal L, Khabou H, Toualbi L, Riancho L, Reichman S, Duebel J, Sahel JA, Goureau O, Dalkara D. AAV-Mediated Gene Delivery to 3D Retinal Organoids Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030994. [PMID: 32028585 PMCID: PMC7036814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) promise a great number of future applications to investigate retinal development, pathophysiology and cell therapies for retinal degenerative diseases. Specific approaches to genetically modulate hiPSC would be valuable for all of these applications. Vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) have shown the ability for gene delivery to retinal organoids derived from hiPSCs. Thus far, little work has been carried out to investigate mechanisms of AAV-mediated gene delivery and the potential advantages of engineered AAVs to genetically modify retinal organoids. In this study, we compared the early transduction efficiency of several recombinant and engineered AAVs in hiPSC-derived RPE cells and retinal organoids in relation to the availability of their cell-surface receptors and as a function of time. The genetic variant AAV2-7m8 had a superior transduction efficiency when applied at day 44 of differentiation on retinal organoids and provided long-lasting expressions for at least 4 weeks after infection without compromising cell viability. All of the capsids we tested transduced the hiPSC-RPE cells, with the AAV2-7m8 variant being the most efficient. Transduction efficiency was correlated with the presence of primary cell-surface receptors on the hiPS-derived organoids. Our study explores some of the mechanisms of cell attachment of AAVs and reports long-term gene expression resulting from gene delivery in retinal organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Garita-Hernandez
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
- Institut de Neurosciences de Montpellier, Université de Montpellier, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Fiona Routet
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Laure Guibbal
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Hanen Khabou
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Lyes Toualbi
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Luisa Riancho
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Sacha Reichman
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Jens Duebel
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jose-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
- CHNO des Quinze−Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, 75012 Paris, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15106, USA
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université,, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012 Paris, France; (M.G.-H.); (F.R.); (L.G.); (H.K.); (L.T.); (L.R.); (S.R.); (J.D.); (J.-A.S.); (O.G.)
- Correspondence:
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25
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Low-oxygen and knock-out serum maintain stemness in human retinal progenitor cells. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:1613-1623. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05248-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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26
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MicroRNA profiling reveals important functions of miR-125b and let-7a during human retinal pigment epithelial cell differentiation. Exp Eye Res 2020; 190:107883. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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27
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D’Antonio-Chronowska A, D’Antonio M, Frazer KA. In vitro Differentiation of Human iPSC-derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells (iPSC-RPE). Bio Protoc 2019; 9:e3469. [PMID: 33654959 PMCID: PMC7853967 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.3469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) serve as an excellent model system for studying the molecular underpinnings of tissue development. Human iPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (iPSC-RPE) cells have fetal-like molecular profiles. Hence, biobanks like iPSCORE, which contain iPSCs generated from hundreds of individuals, are an invaluable resource for examining how common genetic variants exert their effects during RPE development resulting in individuals having different propensities to develop Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) as adults. Here, we present an optimized, cost-effective and highly reproducible protocol for derivation of human iPSC-RPE cells using small molecules under serum-free condition and for their quality control using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. While most previous protocols have required laborious manual selection to enrich for iPSC-RPE cells, our protocol uses whole culture passaging and yields a large number of iPSC-RPE cells with high purity (88-98.1% ZO-1 and MiTF double positive cells). The simplicity and robustness of this protocol would enable its adaption for high-throughput applications involving the generation of iPSC-RPE samples from hundreds of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo D’Antonio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Kelly A. Frazer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
- Institue for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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28
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Vitillo L, Tovell VE, Coffey P. Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Curr Eye Res 2019; 45:361-371. [DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2019.1691237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Loriana Vitillo
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Victoria E. Tovell
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Pete Coffey
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, UK
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
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29
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Liu S, Xie B, Song X, Zheng D, He L, Li G, Gao G, Peng F, Yu M, Ge J, Zhong X. Self-Formation of RPE Spheroids Facilitates Enrichment and Expansion of hiPSC-Derived RPE Generated on Retinal Organoid Induction Platform. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:5659-5669. [PMID: 30489625 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and neural retina could be generated concurrently through retinal organoid induction approaches using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), providing valuable sources for cell therapy of retinal degenerations. This study aims to enrich and expand hiPSC-RPE acquired with this platform and explore characteristics of serially passaged RPE cells. Methods RPE has been differentiated from hiPSCs with a published retinal organoid induction method. After detachment of neural retina on the 4th week, the remaining mixture was scraped from the dish and subjected to suspension culture for the formation of RPE spheroids. RPE sheets were isolated and digested for expansion. The cellular, molecular, and functional features of expanded RPE cells were evaluated by different assays. Results Under suspension culture, hiPSC-RPE spheroids with pigmentation self-formed were readily enriched by removing the non-retinal tissues. RPE sheets were further dissected and purified from the spheroids. The individualized RPE cells could be passaged every week for at least 5 times in serum medium, yielding large numbers of cells with high quality in a short period. In addition, when switched to a serum-free medium, the passaged RPE cells could mature in cellular, molecular, and physiological levels, including repigmentation, markers expression, and phagocytosis. Conclusions We developed a simple and novel RPE spheroids formation approach to enrich and expand hiPSC-RPE cells generated along with retinal neurons on a universal retinal organoid induction platform. This achievement will reduce the cost and time in producing retinal cells for basic and translational researches, in particular for retinal cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengxu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bingbing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaojing Song
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dandan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liwen He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guilan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guanjie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Minzhong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiufeng Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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30
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Zhang Y, Tian Z, Yuan J, Liu C, Liu HL, Ma SQ, Li B. The Progress of Gene Therapy for Leber's Optic Hereditary Neuropathy. Curr Gene Ther 2019; 17:320-326. [PMID: 29189152 PMCID: PMC5902861 DOI: 10.2174/1566523218666171129204926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Leber’s Optic Hereditary Neuropathy (LHON) is a common cause of teenaged blindness in both eyes for which there is currently no effective treatment. In 1871, the German ophthal-mologist Theodor Leber was the first to describe the clinical characteristics of his namesake disease, and through unremitting efforts over the past 100 years, researchers have continued to increase their under-standing of LHON. In recent years, using gene therapy, several groups have obtained breakthroughs in the treatment of the disease. Conclusion: In this article, we will review the challenging journey that researchers faced towards our current understanding of LHON, and describe the transition of gene therapy research for LHON from the bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology Shiyan, Hubei University of Medicine - Taihe Hospital, Hubei. China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology Shiyan, Hubei University of Medicine - Taihe Hospital, Hubei. China
| | - Jiajia Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology - Tongji Hospital, Wuhan Shi. China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology - Tongji Hospital, Wuhan Shi. China
| | - Hong Li Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology - Tongji Hospital, Wuhan Shi. China
| | - Si Qi Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology - Tongji Hospital, Wuhan Shi. China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology Shiyan, Hubei University of Medicine - Taihe Hospital, Hubei. China
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31
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Szatmári-Tóth M, Ilmarinen T, Mikhailova A, Skottman H, Kauppinen A, Kaarniranta K, Kristóf E, Lytvynchuk L, Veréb Z, Fésüs L, Petrovski G. Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium-Role in Dead Cell Clearance and Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040926. [PMID: 30791639 PMCID: PMC6412543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Inefficient removal of dying retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells by professional phagocytes can result in debris formation and development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Chronic oxidative stress and inflammation play an important role in AMD pathogenesis. Only a few well-established in vitro phagocytosis assay models exist. We propose human embryonic stem cell-derived-RPE cells as a new model for studying RPE cell removal by professional phagocytes. The characteristics of human embryonic stem cells-derived RPE (hESC-RPE) are similar to native RPEs based on their gene and protein expression profile, integrity, and barrier properties or regarding drug transport. However, no data exist about RPE death modalities and how efficiently dying hESC-RPEs are taken upby macrophages, and whether this process triggers an inflammatory responses. This study demonstrates hESC-RPEs can be induced to undergo anoikis or autophagy-associated cell death due to extracellular matrix detachment or serum deprivation and hydrogen-peroxide co-treatment, respectively, similar to primary human RPEs. Dying hESC-RPEs are efficiently engulfed by macrophages which results in high amounts of IL-6 and IL-8 cytokine release. These findings suggest that the clearance of anoikic and autophagy-associated dying hESC-RPEs can be used as a new model for investigating AMD pathogenesis or for testing the in vivo potential of these cells in stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária Szatmári-Tóth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Alexandra Mikhailova
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Heli Skottman
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, 33014 Tampere, Finland.
| | - Anu Kauppinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70029 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Endre Kristóf
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Eye Clinic, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Campus Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Zoltán Veréb
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - László Fésüs
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Faculty of Medicine, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary.
- Center for Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
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Pluripotent Stem Cells as Models of Retina Development. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:6056-6070. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-1504-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Stem cell-based retina models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 140:33-50. [PMID: 29777757 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
From the early days of cell biological research, the eye-especially the retina-has evoked broad interest among scientists. The retina has since been thoroughly investigated and numerous models have been exploited to shed light on its development, morphology, and function. Apart from various animal models and human clinical and anatomical research, stem cell-based models of animal and human cells of origin have entered the field, especially during the last decade. Despite the observation that the retina of different species comprises endogenous stem cells, most stem cell-related research in the human retina is now based on pluripotent stem cell models. Herein, systems of two-dimensional (2D) cultures and co-cultures of distinctly differentiated retinal subtypes revealed a variety of cellular aspects but have in many aspects been replaced by three-dimensional (3D) structures-the so-called retinal organoids. These organoids not only contain all major retinal cell subtypes compared to the physiological situation, but also show a distinct layering in close proximity to the in vivo morphology. Nevertheless, all these models have inherent advantages and disadvantages, which are expounded and summarized in this review. Finally, we discuss current application aspects of stem cell-based retina models and the specific promises they hold for the future.
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Cell Therapy for Retinal Dystrophies: From Cell Suspension Formulation to Complex Retinal Tissue Bioengineering. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:4568979. [PMID: 30809263 PMCID: PMC6364130 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4568979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is an irreversible phenomenon caused by various disease conditions including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). During the course of these diseases, photoreceptors (PRs) are susceptible to degeneration due to their malfunctions or to a primary dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Once lost, these cells could not be endogenously regenerated in humans, and cell therapy to replace the lost cells is one of the promising strategies to recover vision. Depending on the nature of the primary defect and the stage of the disease, RPE cells, PRs, or both might be transplanted to achieve therapeutic effects. We describe in this review the current knowledge and recent progress to develop such approaches. The different cell sources proposed for cell therapy including human pluripotent stem cells are presented with their advantages and limits. Another critical aspect described herein is the pharmaceutical formulation of the end product to be delivered into the eye of patients. Finally, we also outline the future research directions in order to develop a complex multilayered retinal tissue for end-stage patients.
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Comparative AAV-eGFP Transgene Expression Using Vector Serotypes 1-9, 7m8, and 8b in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells, RPEs, and Human and Rat Cortical Neurons. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:7281912. [PMID: 30800164 PMCID: PMC6360060 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7281912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV), produced from a nonpathogenic parvovirus, has become an increasing popular vector for gene therapy applications in human clinical trials. However, transduction and transgene expression of rAAVs can differ across in vitro and ex vivo cellular transduction strategies. This study compared 11 rAAV serotypes, carrying one reporter transgene cassette containing a cytomegalovirus immediate-early enhancer (eCMV) and chicken beta actin (CBA) promoter driving the expression of an enhanced green-fluorescent protein (eGFP) gene, which was transduced into four different cell types: human iPSC, iPSC-derived RPE, iPSC-derived cortical, and dissociated embryonic day 18 rat cortical neurons. Each cell type was exposed to three multiplicity of infections (MOI: 1E4, 1E5, and 1E6 vg/cell). After 24, 48, 72, and 96 h posttransduction, GFP-expressing cells were examined and compared across dosage, time, and cell type. Retinal pigmented epithelium showed highest AAV-eGFP expression and iPSC cortical the lowest. At an MOI of 1E6 vg/cell, all serotypes show measurable levels of AAV-eGFP expression; moreover, AAV7m8 and AAV6 perform best across MOI and cell type. We conclude that serotype tropism is not only capsid dependent but also cell type plays a significant role in transgene expression dynamics.
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Abstract
The retina is a very fine and layered neural tissue, which vitally depends on the preservation of cells, structure, connectivity and vasculature to maintain vision. There is an urgent need to find technical and biological solutions to major challenges associated with functional replacement of retinal cells. The major unmet challenges include generating sufficient numbers of specific cell types, achieving functional integration of transplanted cells, especially photoreceptors, and surgical delivery of retinal cells or tissue without triggering immune responses, inflammation and/or remodeling. The advances of regenerative medicine enabled generation of three-dimensional tissues (organoids), partially recreating the anatomical structure, biological complexity and physiology of several tissues, which are important targets for stem cell replacement therapies. Derivation of retinal tissue in a dish creates new opportunities for cell replacement therapies of blindness and addresses the need to preserve retinal architecture to restore vision. Retinal cell therapies aimed at preserving and improving vision have achieved many improvements in the past ten years. Retinal organoid technologies provide a number of solutions to technical and biological challenges associated with functional replacement of retinal cells to achieve long-term vision restoration. Our review summarizes the progress in cell therapies of retina, with focus on human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal tissue, and critically evaluates the potential of retinal organoid approaches to solve a major unmet clinical need—retinal repair and vision restoration in conditions caused by retinal degeneration and traumatic ocular injuries. We also analyze obstacles in commercialization of retinal organoid technology for clinical application.
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Jin C, Ou Q, Li Z, Wang J, Zhang J, Tian H, Xu JY, Gao F, Lu L, Xu GT. The combination of bFGF and CHIR99021 maintains stable self-renewal of mouse adult retinal progenitor cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:346. [PMID: 30545413 PMCID: PMC6292077 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-1091-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of people are affected with retinal diseases that eventually cause blindness, and retinal progenitor cell (RPC) transplantation is a promising therapeutic avenue. However, RPC expansion and the underlying regulation mechanisms remain elusive. METHODS Adult mouse neural RPCs (mNRPCs) were isolated and amplified with the combination of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) inhibitor CHIR99021. The progenitor characteristics were evaluated with RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry (ICC), western blot, flow cytometry, and transcriptome analysis prior to transplantation. By treating cells with or without bFGF and CHIR99021 at different time points, the mechanism for mNRPCs' self-renewal was investigated by transcriptome analysis and western blot assay. RESULTS mNRPCs were self-renewing in the presence of bFGF and CHIR99021 and showed prominent RPC characteristics. bFGF was essential in promoting cell cycle by facilitating G1/S and G2/M transitions. bFGF combined with CHIR99021 activated the non-canonical Wnt5A/Ca2+ pathway and form a calcium homeostasis. In addition, the self-renewing mNRPCs could differentiate into rod photoreceptor-like cells and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-like cells by in vitro induction. When green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled cells were transplanted into the subretinal space (SRS) of Pde6b (rd1) mice (also known as RD1 mice, or rodless mice), the cells survived for more than 12 weeks and migrated into the retina. Parts of the recipient retina showed positive expression of photoreceptor marker rhodopsin. Transplanted cells can migrate into the retina, mainly into the inner cell layer (INL) and ganglion cell layer (GCL). Some cells can differentiate into astrocytes and amacrine cells. Cultured mNRPCs did not form tumors after transplanted into NOD/SCID mice for 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Present study developed an approach to maintain long-term self-renewal of RPCs from adult retinal tissues and revealed that activation of the non-canonical Wnt5A/Ca2+ pathway may participate in regulating RPC self-renewal in vitro. This study presents a very promising platform to expand RPCs for future therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Zongyi Li
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jieping Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jing-Ying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Furong Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China. .,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China. .,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China. .,Department of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China. .,Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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38
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Hunt NC, Hallam D, Chichagova V, Steel DH, Lako M. The Application of Biomaterials to Tissue Engineering Neural Retina and Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1800226. [PMID: 30175520 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of degenerative retinal disease is ever increasing as life expectancy rises globally. The human retina fails to regenerate and the use of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to engineer retinal tissue is of particular interest due to the limited availability of suitable allogeneic or autologous tissue. Retinal tissue and its development are well characterized, which have resulted in robust assays to assess the development of tissue-engineered retina. Retinal tissue can be generated in vitro from hESCs and hiPSCs without biomaterial scaffolds, but despite advancements, protocols remain slow, expensive, and fail to result in mature functional tissue. Several recent studies have demonstrated the potential of biomaterial scaffolds to enhance generation of hESC/hiPSC-derived retinal tissue, including synthetic polymers, silk, alginate, hyaluronic acid, and extracellular matrix molecules. This review outlines the advances that have been made toward tissue-engineered neural retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) for clinical application in recent years, including the success of clinical trials involving transplantation of cells and tissue to promote retinal repair; and the evidence from in vitro and animal studies that biomaterials can enhance development and integration of retinal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola C. Hunt
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life Central Parkway Newcastle NE1 3BZ UK
| | - Dean Hallam
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life Central Parkway Newcastle NE1 3BZ UK
| | - Valeria Chichagova
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life Central Parkway Newcastle NE1 3BZ UK
- Biomedicine WestInternational Centre for LifeTimes SquareNewcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EP UK
| | - David H. Steel
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life Central Parkway Newcastle NE1 3BZ UK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Newcastle UniversityInstitute of Genetic MedicineInternational Centre for Life Central Parkway Newcastle NE1 3BZ UK
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39
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Jiang DJ, Xu CL, Tsang SH. Revolution in Gene Medicine Therapy and Genome Surgery. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E575. [PMID: 30486314 PMCID: PMC6315778 DOI: 10.3390/genes9120575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there have been revolutions in the development of both gene medicine therapy and genome surgical treatments for inherited disorders. Much of this progress has been centered on hereditary retinal dystrophies, because the eye is an immune-privileged and anatomically ideal target. Gene therapy treatments, already demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in numerous clinical trials, are benefitting from the development of new viral vectors, such as dual and triple adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. CRISPR/Cas9, which revolutionized the field of gene editing, is being adapted into more precise "high fidelity" and catalytically dead variants. Newer CRISPR endonucleases, such as CjCas9 and Cas12a, are generating excitement in the field as well. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative, allowing human embryo-derived stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells to be edited precisely in vitro and then reintroduced into the body. This article highlights recent progress made in gene therapy and genome surgery for retinal disorders, and it provides an update on precision medicine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) treatment trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Jiang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Christine L Xu
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Stem Cell Initiative (CSCI), Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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40
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Abstract
Recently, there have been revolutions in the development of both gene medicine therapy and genome surgical treatments for inherited disorders. Much of this progress has been centered on hereditary retinal dystrophies, because the eye is an immune-privileged and anatomically ideal target. Gene therapy treatments, already demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in numerous clinical trials, are benefitting from the development of new viral vectors, such as dual and triple adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. CRISPR/Cas9, which revolutionized the field of gene editing, is being adapted into more precise "high fidelity" and catalytically dead variants. Newer CRISPR endonucleases, such as CjCas9 and Cas12a, are generating excitement in the field as well. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative, allowing human embryo-derived stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells to be edited precisely in vitro and then reintroduced into the body. This article highlights recent progress made in gene therapy and genome surgery for retinal disorders, and it provides an update on precision medicine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) treatment trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Jiang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Christine L Xu
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Stem Cell Initiative (CSCI), Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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41
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Idelson M, Alper R, Obolensky A, Yachimovich-Cohen N, Rachmilewitz J, Ejzenberg A, Beider E, Banin E, Reubinoff B. Immunological Properties of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 11:681-695. [PMID: 30122442 PMCID: PMC6135721 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration is caused by dysfunction and loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, and their transplantation may rescue visual functions and delay disease progression. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) may be an unlimited source of RPE cells for allotransplantation. We analyzed the immunomodulatory properties of hESC-derived RPE (hESC-RPE) cells, and showed that they inhibited T cell responses. Co-culture experiments showed that RPE cells inhibited interfon-γ secretion and proliferation of activated T cells. Furthermore, hESC-RPE cells enhanced T cell apoptosis and secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). In addition, RPE cells altered the expression of T cell activation markers, CD69 and CD25. RPE cells transplanted into RCS rats without immunosuppression survived, provided retinal rescue, and enhanced IL-10 blood levels. Our data suggest that hESC-RPE cells have immunosuppressive properties. Further studies will determine if these properties are sufficient to alleviate the need for immunosuppression therapy after their clinical allotransplantation. T cells proliferation and IFN-γ secretion are inhibited by hESC-RPE cells T cells apoptosis and secretion of IL-10 are enhanced by hESC-RPE cells RPE cells survive, provide retinal rescue, and enhance IL-10 blood levels in vivo These findings are relevant to immunosuppressive regimens for RPE cell therapies
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha Idelson
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Ruslana Alper
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Alexey Obolensky
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Nurit Yachimovich-Cohen
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Jacob Rachmilewitz
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Ayala Ejzenberg
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Ekaterina Beider
- Hematology Division and CBB, Guy Weinshtock Multiple Myeloma Foundation, Chaim Sheba Medical Center Hospital-Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan 52621, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Benjamin Reubinoff
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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42
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Pasovic L, Utheim TP, Reppe S, Khan AZ, Jackson CJ, Thiede B, Berg JP, Messelt EB, Eidet JR. Improvement of Storage Medium for Cultured Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Using Factorial Design. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5688. [PMID: 29632395 PMCID: PMC5890280 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24121-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Storage of human retinal pigment epithelium (hRPE) can contribute to the advancement of cell-based RPE replacement therapies. The present study aimed to improve the quality of stored hRPE cultures by identifying storage medium additives that, alone or in combination, contribute to enhancing cell viability while preserving morphology and phenotype. hRPE cells were cultured in the presence of the silk protein sericin until pigmentation. Cells were then stored for 10 days in storage medium plus sericin and either one of 46 different additives. Individual effects of each additive on cell viability were assessed using epifluorescence microscopy. Factorial design identified promising additive combinations by extrapolating their individual effects. Supplementing the storage medium with sericin combined with adenosine, L-ascorbic acid and allopurinol resulted in the highest cell viability (98.6 ± 0.5%) after storage for three days, as measured by epifluorescence microscopy. Flow cytometry validated the findings. Proteomics identified 61 upregulated and 65 downregulated proteins in this storage group compared to the unstored control. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated the presence of melanosomes after storage in the optimized medium. We conclude that the combination of adenosine, L-ascorbic acid, allopurinol and sericin in minimal essential medium preserves RPE pigmentation while maintaining cell viability during storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pasovic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway. .,Department of Surgery, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.
| | - T P Utheim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - S Reppe
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - A Z Khan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - C J Jackson
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - B Thiede
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - J P Berg
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - E B Messelt
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - J R Eidet
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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43
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Phase 1 clinical study of an embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium patch in age-related macular degeneration. Nat Biotechnol 2018; 36:328-337. [PMID: 29553577 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.4114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 415] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a major cause of blindness, with dysfunction and loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) central to disease progression. We engineered an RPE patch comprising a fully differentiated, human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE monolayer on a coated, synthetic basement membrane. We delivered the patch, using a purpose-designed microsurgical tool, into the subretinal space of one eye in each of two patients with severe exudative AMD. Primary endpoints were incidence and severity of adverse events and proportion of subjects with improved best-corrected visual acuity of 15 letters or more. We report successful delivery and survival of the RPE patch by biomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography, and a visual acuity gain of 29 and 21 letters in the two patients, respectively, over 12 months. Only local immunosuppression was used long-term. We also present the preclinical surgical, cell safety and tumorigenicity studies leading to trial approval. This work supports the feasibility and safety of hESC-RPE patch transplantation as a regenerative strategy for AMD.
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44
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Öner A. Stem Cell Treatment in Retinal Diseases: Recent Developments. Turk J Ophthalmol 2018; 48:33-38. [PMID: 29576896 PMCID: PMC5854857 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.89972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells which have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into mature cells. They are highly proliferative, implying that an unlimited number of mature cells can be generated from a given stem cell source. On this basis, stem cell replacement therapy has been evaluated in recent years as an alternative for various pathologies. Degenerative retinal diseases cause progressive visual decline which originates from continuing loss of photoreceptor cells and outer nuclear layers. Theoretically, this therapy will enable the generation of new retinal cells from stem cells to replace the damaged cells in the diseased retina. In addition, stem cells are able to perform multiple functions, such as immunoregulation, anti-apoptosis of neurons, and neurotrophin secretion. With recent progress in experimental stem cell applications, phase I/II clinical trials have been approved. These latest stem cell transplantation studies showed that this therapy is a promising approach to restore visual function in eyes with degenerative retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardts’ macular dystrophy, and age-related macular degeneration. This review focuses on new developments in stem cell therapy for degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Öner
- Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri, Turkey
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Petrus-Reurer S, Bartuma H, Aronsson M, Westman S, Lanner F, Kvanta A. Subretinal Transplantation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived-retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells into a Large-eyed Model of Geographic Atrophy. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29443034 DOI: 10.3791/56702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Geographic atrophy (GA), the late stage of dry age-related macular degeneration is characterized by loss of the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) layer, which leads to subsequent degeneration of vital retinal structures (e.g., photoreceptors) causing severe vision impairment. Similarly, RPE-loss and decrease in visual acuity is seen in long-term follow up of patients with advanced wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) receiving intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment. Therefore, on the one hand, it is fundamental to efficiently derive RPE cells from an unlimited source that could serve as replacement therapy. On the other hand, it is important to assess the behavior and integration of the derived cells in a model of the disease entailing surgical and imaging methods as close as possible to those applied in humans. Here, we provide a detailed protocol based on our previous publications that describes the generation of a preclinical model of GA using the albino rabbit eye, for evaluation of the human embryonic stem cell derived retinal pigment epithelial cells (hESC-RPE) in a clinically relevant setting. Differentiated hESC-RPE are transplanted into naive eyes or eyes with NaIO3-induced GA-like retinal degeneration using a 25 G transvitreal pars plana technique. Evaluation of degenerated and transplanted areas is performed by multimodal high-resolution non-invasive real-time imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Petrus-Reurer
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet; Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet;
| | - Hammurabi Bartuma
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Monica Aronsson
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Sofie Westman
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Clinical Neuroscience, Section for Ophtalmology and Vision, Karolinska Institutet
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Wu W, Zeng Y, Li Z, Li Q, Xu H, Yin ZQ. Features specific to retinal pigment epithelium cells derived from three-dimensional human embryonic stem cell cultures - a new donor for cell therapy. Oncotarget 2017; 7:22819-33. [PMID: 27009841 PMCID: PMC5008403 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation is a particularly promising treatment of retinal degenerative diseases affecting RPE-photoreceptor complex. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an abundant donor source for RPE transplantation. Herein, we studied the time-course characteristics of RPE cells derived from three-dimensional human ESCs cultures (3D-RPE). We showed that 3D-RPE cells possessed morphology, ultrastructure, gene expression profile, and functions of authentic RPE. As differentiation proceeded, 3D-RPE cells could mature gradually with decreasing proliferation but increasing functions. Besides, 3D-RPE cells could form polarized monolayer with functional tight junction and gap junction. When grafted into the subretinal space of Royal College of Surgeons rats, 3D-RPE cells were safe and efficient to rescue retinal degeneration. This study showed that 3D-RPE cells were a new donor for cell therapy of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuxiao Zeng
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhengya Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiyou Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zheng Qin Yin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
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Ma X, Li H, Wang Y, Wang J, Zheng Q, Hua J, Yang J, Pan L, Lu F, Qu J, Hou L. DAPL1, a susceptibility locus for age-related macular degeneration, acts as a novel suppressor of cell proliferation in the retinal pigment epithelium. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 26:1612-1621. [PMID: 28334846 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms a monolayer at the back of the vertebrate eye and is fundamental to retinal function and homoeostasis. During early development, RPE cells undergo rapid proliferation, but in the adult, they remain normally nonproliferative throughout life. Nevertheless, under pathological conditions such as in proliferative vitreoretinopathy or after retinal ablation, mature RPE cells can re-enter the cell cycle and form nodules or multiple cell layers. Here we show that Dapl1, whose human homolog represents a susceptibility locus for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is highly up-regulated in quiescent but not proliferating RPE cells and that experimental overexpression of DAPL1 in proliferating RPE cells inhibits their proliferation. Consistent with this observation, the percent of Ki67-positive cells is significantly higher in E11.5 Dapl1 knockout mouse embryos compared to age-matched controls. In adult Dapl1-/- mice, which survive without showing any overt pathology, RPE overgrowth leads to multiple cell layers and/or cellular nodules. The antiproliferative effect of DAPL1 is associated with an increase in CDKN1A protein levels. Reduction of CDKN1A by siRNA in DAPL1-overexpressing RPE cells in vitro partially restores cell proliferation. Hence, we show that DAPL1 is a novel regulator of RPE cell proliferation that is important for the maintenance of the RPE as a monolayer. The findings suggest that DAPL1 dysregulation may be involved in abnormal RPE-related proliferative diseases and corresponding retinal dysfunctions in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyin Ma
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China.,State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
| | - Huirong Li
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Yipin Wang
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China.,State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
| | - Qinxiang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
| | - Jiajia Hua
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Juan Yang
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Li Pan
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China
| | - Fan Lu
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
| | - Jia Qu
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
| | - Ling Hou
- Labratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China.,State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science of Ministry of Health and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou 325003, China
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Skottman H, Muranen J, Lähdekorpi H, Pajula E, Mäkelä K, Koivusalo L, Koistinen A, Uusitalo H, Kaarniranta K, Juuti-Uusitalo K. Contacting co-culture of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells alters barrier function of human embryonic stem cell derived retinal pigment epithelial cells. Exp Cell Res 2017; 359:101-111. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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49
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Sorsby fundus dystrophy - A review of pathology and disease mechanisms. Exp Eye Res 2017; 165:35-46. [PMID: 28847738 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Sorsby fundus dystrophy (SFD) is an autosomal dominant macular dystrophy with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 220,000 and an onset of disease around the 4th to 6th decade of life. Similar to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), ophthalmoscopy reveals accumulation of protein/lipid deposits under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), referred to as drusen, in the eyes of patients with SFD. SFD is caused by variants in the gene for tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP3), which has been found in drusen-like deposits of SFD patients. TIMP3 is constitutively expressed by RPE cells and, in healthy eyes, resides in Bruch's membrane. Most SFD-associated TIMP3 variants involve the gain or loss of a cysteine residue. This suggests the protein aberrantly forms intermolecular disulphide bonds, resulting in the formation of TIMP3 dimers. It has been demonstrated that SFD-associated TIMP3 variants are more resistant to turnover, which is thought to be a result of dimerisation and thought to explain the accumulation of TIMP3 in drusen-like deposits at the level of Bruch's membrane. An important function of TIMP3 within the outer retina is to regulate the thickness of Bruch's membrane. TIMP3 performs this function by inhibiting the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which have the function of catalysing breakdown of the extracellular matrix. TIMP3 has an additional function to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signalling and thereby to inhibit angiogenesis. However, it is unclear whether SFD-associated TIMP3 variant proteins retain these functions. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the potential mechanisms underlying development of SFD and summarise all known SFD-associated TIMP3 variants. Cell culture models provide an invaluable way to study disease and identify potential treatments. These allow a greater understanding of RPE physiology and pathophysiology, including the ability to study the blood-retinal barrier as well as other RPE functions such as phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments. This review describes some examples of such recent in vitro studies and how they might provide new insights into degenerative diseases like SFD. Thus far, most studies on SFD have been performed using ARPE-19 cells or other, less suitable, cell-types. Now, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies allow the possibility to non-invasively collect somatic cells, such as dermal fibroblast cells and reprogram those to produce iPSCs. Subsequent differentiation of iPSCs can generate patient-derived RPE cells that carry the same disease-associated variant as RPE cells in the eyes of the patient. Use of these patient-derived RPE cells in novel cell culture systems should increase our understanding of how SFD and similar macular dystrophies develop.
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50
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Hongisto H, Jylhä A, Nättinen J, Rieck J, Ilmarinen T, Veréb Z, Aapola U, Beuerman R, Petrovski G, Uusitalo H, Skottman H. Comparative proteomic analysis of human embryonic stem cell-derived and primary human retinal pigment epithelium. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6016. [PMID: 28729539 PMCID: PMC5519552 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06233-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells (hESC-RPE) provide an unlimited cell source for retinal cell replacement therapies. Clinical trials using hESC-RPE to treat diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are currently underway. Human ESC-RPE cells have been thoroughly characterized at the gene level but their protein expression profile has not been studied at larger scale. In this study, proteomic analysis was used to compare hESC-RPE cells differentiated from two independent hESC lines, to primary human RPE (hRPE) using Isobaric tags for relative quantitation (iTRAQ). 1041 common proteins were present in both hESC-RPE cells and native hRPE with majority of the proteins similarly regulated. The hESC-RPE proteome reflected that of normal hRPE with a large number of metabolic, mitochondrial, cytoskeletal, and transport proteins expressed. No signs of increased stress, apoptosis, immune response, proliferation, or retinal degeneration related changes were noted in hESC-RPE, while important RPE specific proteins involved in key RPE functions such as visual cycle and phagocytosis, could be detected in the hESC-RPE. Overall, the results indicated that the proteome of the hESC-RPE cells closely resembled that of their native counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Hongisto
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Antti Jylhä
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Janika Nättinen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jochen Rieck
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Zoltán Veréb
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ulla Aapola
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Roger Beuerman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Singapore Eye Research Institute and Duke-NUS School of Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,Center for Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hannu Uusitalo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Tampere University Hospital Eye Center, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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