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Dong L, Fan Z, Fang B, Zhao X, Yao H, Cai G, Yang S, Zhang G, Cheng X, Feng Y, Mi S, Sun W. Oriented cellulose hydrogel: Directed tissue regeneration for reducing corneal leukoplakia and managing fungal corneal ulcers. Bioact Mater 2024; 41:15-29. [PMID: 39101028 PMCID: PMC11292264 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.07.008] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal corneal ulcer is one of the leading causes of corneal blindness in developing countries. Corneal scars such as leukoplakia are formed due to inflammation, oxidative stress and non-directed repair, which seriously affect the patients' subsequent visual and life quality. In this study, drawing inspiration from the oriented structure of collagen fibers within the corneal stroma, we first proposed the directional arrangement of CuTA-CMHT hydrogel system at micro and macro scales based on the 3D printing extrusion method combined with secondary patterning. It played an antifungal role and induced oriented repair in therapy of fungal corneal ulcer. The results showed that it effectively inhibited Candida albicans, Aspergillus Niger, Fusarium sapropelum, which mainly affects TNF, NF-kappa B, and HIF-1 signaling pathways, achieving effective antifungal functions. More importantly, the fibroblasts interacted with extracellular matrix (ECM) of corneal stroma through formation of focal adhesions, promoted the proliferation and directional migration of cells in vitro, induced the directional alignment of collagen fibers and corneal stromal orthogonally oriented repair in vivo. This process is mainly associated with MYLK, MYL9, and ITGA3 molecules. Furthermore, the downregulation the growth factors TGF-β and PDGF-β inhibits myofibroblast development and reduces scar-type ECM production, thereby reducing corneal leukoplakia. It also activates the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, promoting corneal healing. In conclusion, the oriented CuTA-CMHT hydrogel system mimics the orthogonal arrangement of collagen fibers, inhibits inflammation, eliminates reactive oxygen species, and reduces corneal leukoplakia, which is of great significance in the treatment of fungal corneal ulcer and is expected to write a new chapter in corneal tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Dong
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Department of Burns, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zixin Fan
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Bixing Fang
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhao
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Hongyi Yao
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Gangpei Cai
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Guoming Zhang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Xiaoqi Cheng
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yun Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shengli Mi
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Biomanufacturing Center, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Liu W, Qi Y, Diao W, Lin J, Zhang L, Wang Q, Gu L, Feng Z, Chi M, Wang Y, Yi W, Li Y, Li C, Zhao G. Chelerythrine ameliorates Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis through suppressing the LOX-1/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Cytokine 2024; 182:156717. [PMID: 39067394 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) keratitis is a type of infectious corneal disease that significantly impairs vision. The objective of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of chelerythrine (CHE) on A. fumigatus keratitis. METHODS The antifungal activity of CHE was assessed through various tests including the minimum inhibitory concentration test, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, propidium iodide uptake test and plate count. Neutrophil infiltration and activity were assessed using immunofluorescence staining and the myeloperoxidase test. RT-PCR, western blotting assay, and ELISA were performed to measure the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6), NF-E2-related factor (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), as well as to determine the ratio of phosphorylated-p38 (p-p38) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) to p38 MAPK. RESULTS In vitro, CHE inhibited the growth of A. fumigatus conidia, reduced fungal hyphae survival, and prevented fungal biofilm formation. In vivo, CHE reduced the severity of A. fumigatus keratitis and exhibited an excellent anti-inflammatory effect by blocking neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, CHE decreased the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines and LOX-1 at both mRNA and protein levels, while also decreasing the p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK ratio. Additionally, CHE increased the expression levels of Nrf2 and HO-1. CONCLUSION CHE provides protection against A. fumigatus keratitis through multiple mechanisms, including reducing fungal survival, inducing anti-inflammatory effects, enhancing Nrf2 and HO-1 expression, and suppressing the signaling pathway of LOX-1/p38 MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyao Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yinghe Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Weilin Diao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lingwen Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhuhui Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Menghui Chi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yuwei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wendan Yi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yuqi Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
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Wang Z, Lin J, Wang Q, Fu Y, Gu L, Tian X, Yu B, Fu X, Zheng H, Li C, Zhao G. Rosmarinic acid alleviates fungal keratitis caused by Aspergillus fumigatus by inducing macrophage autophagy. Exp Eye Res 2024; 244:109944. [PMID: 38797260 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109944] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is an infectious keratopathy can cause serious damage to vision. Its severity is related to the virulence of fungus and response of inflammatory. Rosmarinic acid (RA) extracted from Rosmarinus officinalis exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of RA on macrophage autophagy and its therapeutic effect on FK. In this study, we demonstrated that RA reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokine, lessened the recruitment of inflammatory cells in FK. The relative contents of autophagy markers, such as LC3 and Beclin-1, were significantly up-regulated in RAW 264.7 cells and FK. In addition, RA restored mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of macrophage to normal level. RA not only reduced the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) but also mitochondria ROS (mtROS) in macrophage. At the same time, RA induced macrophage to M2 phenotype and down-regulated the mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α. All the above effects could be offset by the autophagy inhibitor 3-Methyladenine (3-MA). Besides, RA promote phagocytosis of RAW 264.7 cells and inhibits spore germination, biofilm formation and conidial adherence, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for RA in FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yudong Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lingwen Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xue Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bing Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xueyun Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hengrui Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
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Sun Y, Li F, Liu Y, Qiao D, Yao X, Liu GS, Li D, Xiao C, Wang T, Chi W. Targeting inflammasomes and pyroptosis in retinal diseases-molecular mechanisms and future perspectives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 101:101263. [PMID: 38657834 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101263] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Retinal diseases encompass various conditions associated with sight-threatening immune responses and are leading causes of blindness worldwide. These diseases include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and uveitis. Emerging evidence underscores the vital role of the innate immune response in retinal diseases, beyond the previously emphasized T-cell-driven processes of the adaptive immune system. In particular, pyroptosis, a newly discovered programmed cell death process involving inflammasome formation, has been implicated in the loss of membrane integrity and the release of inflammatory cytokines. Several disease-relevant animal models have provided evidence that the formation of inflammasomes and the induction of pyroptosis in innate immune cells contribute to inflammation in various retinal diseases. In this review article, we summarize current knowledge about the innate immune system and pyroptosis in retinal diseases. We also provide insights into translational targeting approaches, including novel drugs countering pyroptosis, to improve the diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fan Li
- Eye Center, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, 528403, China
| | - Yunfei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Dijie Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Xinyu Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Guei-Sheung Liu
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia; Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Dequan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Chuanle Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Guangming District, Shenzhen, 518132, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, 10 Xitoutiao You'anMen Street, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Wei Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Lyu S, Zhang T, Peng P, Cao D, Ma L, Yu Y, Dong Y, Qi X, Wei C. Involvement of cGAS/STING Signaling in the Pathogenesis of Candida albicans Keratitis: Insights From Genetic and Pharmacological Approaches. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:13. [PMID: 38848078 PMCID: PMC11166223 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.6.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fungal keratitis (FK) is an invasive corneal infection associated with significant risk to vision. Although the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)/stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway has been recognized for its role in defending against viral infections, its involvement in FK still remains largely unclear. This study sought to elucidate the contribution of the cGAS/STING signaling pathway to the pathogenesis of FK. Methods The expression of cGAS/STING signaling components was assessed in a murine model of Candida albicans keratitis through RNA sequencing, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and real-time PCR. Both genetic (utilizing Sting1gt/gt mice) and pharmacological (using C176) interventions were employed to inhibit STING activity, allowing for the evaluation of resultant pathogenic alterations in FK using slit-lamp examination, clinical scoring, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, fungal culture, and RNA sequencing. Subconjunctival administration of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 was performed to evaluate FK manifestations following STING activity blockade. Furthermore, the impact of the STING agonist diABZI on FK progression was investigated. Results Compared to uninfected corneas, those infected with C. albicans exhibited increased expression of cGAS/STING signaling components, as well as its elevated activity. Inhibiting cGAS/STING signaling exacerbated the advancement of FK, as evidenced by elevated clinical scores, augmented fungal load, and heightened inflammatory response, including NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis. Pharmacological inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome effectively mitigated the exacerbated FK by suppressing STING activity. Conversely, pre-activation of STING exacerbated FK progression compared to the PBS control, characterized by increased fungal burden and reinforced inflammatory infiltration. Conclusions This study demonstrates the essential role of the cGAS/STING signaling pathway in FK pathogenesis and highlights the necessity of its proper activation for the host against FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanmei Lyu
- Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Peng
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dingwen Cao
- Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Li Ma
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yang Yu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanling Dong
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaolin Qi
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chao Wei
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
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Feng Z, Gu L, Lin J, Wang Q, Yu B, Yao X, Feng Z, Zhao G, Li C. Formononetin protects against Aspergillus fumigatus Keratitis: Targeting inflammation and fungal load. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112046. [PMID: 38593508 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112046] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the potential treatment of formononetin (FMN) on Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) keratitis with anti-inflammatory and antifungal activity. METHODS The effects of FMN on mice with A. fumigatus keratitis were evaluated through keratitis clinical scores, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and plate counts. The expression of pro-inflammatory factors was measured using RT-PCR, ELISA, or Western blot. The distribution of macrophages and neutrophils was explored by immunofluorescence staining. The antifungal properties of FMN were assessed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), propidium iodide (PI) staining, fungal spore adhesion, and biofilm formation assay. RESULTS In A. fumigatus keratitis mice, FMN decreased the keratitis clinical scores, macrophages and neutrophils migration, and the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. In A. fumigatus-stimulated human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs), FMN reduced the expression of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and NLRP3. FMN also decreased the expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor (TSLPR). Moreover, FMN reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by A. fumigatus in HCECs. Furthermore, FMN inhibited A. fumigatus growth, prevented spore adhesion and disrupted fungal biofilm formation in vitro. In vivo, FMN treatment reduced the fungal load in mice cornea at 3 days post infection (p.i.). CONCLUSION FMN demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, and exhibited a protective effect on mouse A. fumigatus keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuhui Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lingwen Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bing Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zheng Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
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Gu L, Lin J, Wang Q, Meng F, Niu G, Lin H, Chi M, Feng Z, Zheng H, Li D, Zhao G, Li C. Mesoporous zinc oxide-based drug delivery system offers an antifungal and immunoregulatory strategy for treating keratitis. J Control Release 2024; 368:483-497. [PMID: 38458571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.006] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis is a refractory eye disease that is prone to causing blindness. Fungal virulence and inflammatory responses are two major factors that accelerate the course of fungal keratitis. However, the current antifungal drugs used for treatment usually possess transient residence time on the ocular surface and low bioavailability deficiencies, which limit their therapeutic efficacy. In this work, natamycin (NATA)-loaded mesoporous zinc oxide (Meso-ZnO) was synthesized for treating Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis with excellent drug-loading and sustained drug release capacities. In addition to being a carrier for drug delivery, Meso-ZnO could restrict fungal growth in a concentration-dependent manner, and the transcriptome analysis of fungal hyphae indicated that it inhibited the mycotoxin biosynthesis, oxidoreductase activity and fungal cell wall formation. Meso-ZnO also promoted cell migration and exhibited anti-inflammatory role during fungal infection by promoting the activation of autophagy. In mouse models of fungal keratitis, Meso-ZnO/NATA greatly reduced corneal fungal survival, alleviated tissue inflammatory damage, and reduced neutrophils accumulation and cytokines expression. This study suggests that Meso-ZnO/NATA can be a novel and effective treatment strategy for fungal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingwen Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Fanyue Meng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Geng Niu
- School of Science, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao 266520, PR China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Menghui Chi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Zhuhui Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Hengrui Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China
| | - Daohao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-fibers and Eco-textiles, Institute of Marine Biobased Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, PR China.
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China.
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, PR China.
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Xiao C, Cao S, Li Y, Luo Y, Liu J, Chen Y, Bai Q, Chen L. Pyroptosis in microbial infectious diseases. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 51:42. [PMID: 38158461 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09078-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Pyroptosis is a gasdermins-mediated programmed cell death that plays an essential role in immune regulation, and its role in autoimmune disease and cancer has been studied extensively. Increasing evidence shows that various microbial infections can lead to pyroptosis, associated with the occurrence and development of microbial infectious diseases. This study reviews the recent advances in pyroptosis in microbial infection, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. We also explore potential therapeutic strategies for treating microbial infection-related diseases by targeting pyroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Xiao
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Saihong Cao
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
- Yiyang Medical College, School of Public Health and Laboratory Medicine, Yiyang, Hunan, 421000, China
| | - Yunfei Li
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Yuchen Luo
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Yuyu Chen
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University Infection-Associated Hemophagocytic Syndrome, Changsha, Hunan, 421000, China
| | - Qinqin Bai
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Lili Chen
- Department of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
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