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Datta D, Priyanka Bandi S, Colaco V, Dhas N, Siva Reddy DV, Vora LK. Fostering the unleashing potential of nanocarriers-mediated delivery of ocular therapeutics. Int J Pharm 2024; 658:124192. [PMID: 38703931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Ocular delivery is the most challenging aspect in the field of pharmaceutical research. The major hurdle for the controlled delivery of drugs to the eye includes the physiological static barriers such as the complex layers of the cornea, sclera and retina which restrict the drug from permeating into the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. Recent years have witnessed inventions in the field of conventional and nanocarrier drug delivery which have shown considerable enhancement in delivering small to large molecules across the eye. The dynamic challenges associated with conventional systems include limited drug contact time and inadequate ocular bioavailability resulting from solution drainage, tear turnover, and dilution or lacrimation. To this end, various bioactive-based nanosized carriers including liposomes, ethosomes, niosomes, dendrimer, nanogel, nanofibers, contact lenses, nanoprobes, selenium nanobells, nanosponge, polymeric micelles, silver nanoparticles, and gold nanoparticles among others have been developed to circumvent the limitations associated with the conventional dosage forms. These nanocarriers have been shown to achieve enhanced drug permeation or retention and prolong drug release in the ocular tissue due to their better tissue adherence. The surface charge and the size of nanocarriers (10-1000 nm) are the important key factors to overcome ocular barriers. Various nanocarriers have been shown to deliver active therapeutic molecules including timolol maleate, ampicillin, natamycin, voriconazole, cyclosporine A, dexamethasone, moxifloxacin, and fluconazole among others for the treatment of anterior and posterior eye diseases. Taken together, in a nutshell, this extensive review provides a comprehensive perspective on the numerous facets of ocular drug delivery with a special focus on bioactive nanocarrier-based approaches, including the difficulties and constraints involved in the fabrication of nanocarriers. This also provides the detailed invention, applications, biodistribution and safety-toxicity of nanocarriers-based therapeutcis for the ophthalmic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepanjan Datta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India.
| | - Sony Priyanka Bandi
- Loka Laboratories Private Limited, Technology Business Incubator, BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Medchal 500078, Telangana, India.
| | - Viola Colaco
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - Namdev Dhas
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka State, India
| | - D V Siva Reddy
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio TX78227, USA
| | - Lalitkumar K Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, U.K
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2
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Mahaling B, Low SWY, Ch S, Addi UR, Ahmad B, Connor TB, Mohan RR, Biswas S, Chaurasia SS. Next-Generation Nanomedicine Approaches for the Management of Retinal Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2005. [PMID: 37514191 PMCID: PMC10383092 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15072005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal diseases are one of the leading causes of blindness globally. The mainstay treatments for these blinding diseases are laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy, and repeated intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or steroids. Unfortunately, these therapies are associated with ocular complications like inflammation, elevated intraocular pressure, retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, and vitreous hemorrhage. Recent advances in nanomedicine seek to curtail these limitations, overcoming ocular barriers by developing non-invasive or minimally invasive delivery modalities. These modalities include delivering therapeutics to specific cellular targets in the retina, providing sustained delivery of drugs to avoid repeated intravitreal injections, and acting as a scaffold for neural tissue regeneration. These next-generation nanomedicine approaches could potentially revolutionize the treatment landscape of retinal diseases. This review describes the availability and limitations of current treatment strategies and highlights insights into the advancement of future approaches using next-generation nanomedicines to manage retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binapani Mahaling
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Shermaine W Y Low
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Sanjay Ch
- Nanomedicine Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad 500078, India
| | - Utkarsh R Addi
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Baseer Ahmad
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Thomas B Connor
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Swati Biswas
- Nanomedicine Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad 500078, India
| | - Shyam S Chaurasia
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Sinha NR, Tripathi R, Balne PK, Suleiman L, Simkins K, Chaurasia SS, Mohan RR. Mustard Gas Exposure Actuates SMAD2/3 Signaling to Promote Myofibroblast Generation in the Cornea. Cells 2023; 12:1533. [PMID: 37296653 PMCID: PMC10252656 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111533] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Sulfur mustard gas (SM) is a vesicating and alkylating agent used as a chemical weapon in many mass-casualty incidents since World War I. Ocular injuries were reported in >90% of exposed victims. The mechanisms underlying SM-induced blindness remain elusive. This study tested the hypothesis that SM-induced corneal fibrosis occurs due to the generation of myofibroblasts from resident fibroblasts via the SMAD2/3 signaling pathway in rabbit eyes in vivo and primary human corneal fibroblasts (hCSFs) isolated from donor corneas in vitro. Fifty-four New Zealand White Rabbits were divided into three groups (Naïve, Vehicle, SM-Vapor treated). The SM-Vapor group was exposed to SM at 200 mg-min/m3 for 8 min at the MRI Global facility. Rabbit corneas were collected on day 3, day 7, and day 14 for immunohistochemistry, RNA, and protein lysates. SM caused a significant increase in SMAD2/3, pSMAD, and ɑSMA expression on day 3, day 7, and day 14 in rabbit corneas. For mechanistic studies, hCSFs were treated with nitrogen mustard (NM) or NM + SIS3 (SMAD3-specific inhibitor) and collected at 30 m, 8 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. NM significantly increased TGFβ, pSMAD3, and SMAD2/3 levels. On the contrary, inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling by SIS3 treatment significantly reduced SMAD2/3, pSMAD3, and ɑSMA expression in hCSFs. We conclude that SMAD2/3 signaling appears to play a vital role in myofibroblast formation in the cornea following mustard gas exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant R. Sinha
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Ratnakar Tripathi
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Praveen K. Balne
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Laila Suleiman
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Katherine Simkins
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Shyam S. Chaurasia
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Ocular Immunology and Angiogenesis Lab, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin Eye Institute, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Rajiv R. Mohan
- Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Weiss JS, Willoughby CE, Abad-Morales V, Turunen JA, Lisch W. Update on the Corneal Dystrophies-Genetic Testing and Therapy. Cornea 2022; 41:1337-1344. [PMID: 36219210 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000002857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT One major purpose of the IC3D Corneal Dystrophy Nomenclature Revision was to include genetic information with a goal of facilitating investigation into the pathogenesis, treatment, and perhaps even prevention of the corneal dystrophies, an ambitious goal. Over a decade has passed since the first publication of the IC3D Corneal Dystrophy Nomenclature Revision. Gene therapy is available for an early-onset form of inherited retinal degeneration called Leber congenital amaurosis, but not yet for corneal degenerations. We review the current state of affairs regarding our original ambitious goal. We discuss genetic testing, gene therapy [RNA interference (RNAi) and genome editing], and ocular delivery of corneal gene therapy for the corneal dystrophies. Why have gene therapy techniques not yet been introduced for the corneal dystrophies?
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayne S Weiss
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pathology and Pharmacology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
| | - Colin E Willoughby
- Genomic Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Víctor Abad-Morales
- Fundació de Recerca de l'Institut de Microcirurgia Ocular, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Institut de Microcirurgia Ocular (IMO), Barcelona, Spain; Dr. Abad-Morales is now with the SpliceBio, Barcelona, Spain, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joni A Turunen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland; and
| | - Walter Lisch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg, University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Leclercq B, Mejlachowicz D, Behar-Cohen F. Ocular Barriers and Their Influence on Gene Therapy Products Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14050998. [PMID: 35631584 PMCID: PMC9143174 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The eye is formed by tissues and cavities that contain liquids whose compositions are highly regulated to ensure their optical properties and their immune and metabolic functions. The integrity of the ocular barriers, composed of different elements that work in a coordinated fashion, is essential to maintain the ocular homeostasis. Specialized junctions between the cells of different tissues have specific features which guarantee sealing properties and selectively control the passage of drugs from the circulation or the outside into the tissues and within the different ocular compartments. Tissues structure also constitute selective obstacles and pathways for various molecules. Specific transporters control the passage of water, ions, and macromolecules, whilst efflux pumps reject and eliminate toxins, metabolites, or drugs. Ocular barriers, thus, limit the bioavailability of gene therapy products in ocular tissues and cells depending on the route chosen for their administration. On the other hand, ocular barriers allow a real local treatment, with limited systemic side-effects. Understanding the different barriers that limit the accessibility of different types of gene therapy products to the different target cells is a prerequisite for the development of efficient gene delivery systems. This review summarizes actual knowledge on the different ocular barriers that limit the penetration and distribution of gene therapy products using different routes of administration, and it provides a general overview of various methods used to bypass the ocular barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Leclercq
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, From Physiopathology of Ocular Diseases to Clinical Development, Sorbonne University, Université de Paris Cité, Inserm, F-75006 Paris, France; (B.L.); (D.M.)
| | - Dan Mejlachowicz
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, From Physiopathology of Ocular Diseases to Clinical Development, Sorbonne University, Université de Paris Cité, Inserm, F-75006 Paris, France; (B.L.); (D.M.)
| | - Francine Behar-Cohen
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, From Physiopathology of Ocular Diseases to Clinical Development, Sorbonne University, Université de Paris Cité, Inserm, F-75006 Paris, France; (B.L.); (D.M.)
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Ophtalmopole, Cochin Hospital, Université de Paris Cité, F-75015 Paris, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Foch, F-92150 Suresnes, France
- Correspondence:
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Corneal stromal repair and regeneration. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101090. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Mohan RR, Balne PK, Muayad MS, Tripathi R, Sinha NR, Gupta S, An JA, Sinha PR, Hesemann NP. Six-Month In Vivo Safety Profiling of Topical Ocular AVV5-Decorin Gene Transfer. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:5. [PMID: 34383877 PMCID: PMC8362634 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.10.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose A significant remission of corneal fibrosis and neovascularization in rabbit eye in vivo was observed from a tissue-selective localized adeno-associated virus (AAV)5–Decorin (Dcn) gene therapy. This study sought to investigate 6-month toxicity profiling of this gene therapy for the eye in vivo using a rabbit model. Methods A small epithelial scrape followed by corneal drying was performed unilaterally in 12 rabbit eyes and either AAV5–Dcn (n = 6) or naked vector (n = 6) was delivered topically using a cloning cylinder technique. Contralateral eyes served as naïve control (n = 6). Safety and tolerability measurements in live rabbits were performed periodically until month 6 using multimodel clinical ophthalmic imaging tools—a slit lamp, stereomicroscope, and HRT3-RCM in vivo confocal microscope. Thereafter, corneas were excised and subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining, Mason trichome staining, propidium iodide nuclear staining, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses. Results Clinical eye examinations based on the modified Hackett–McDonald ocular scoring system, and in vivo confocal imaging of the cornea showed no signs of ocular toxicity in rabbit eyes given AAV5–Dcn gene transfer vs control eyes (P > 0.05) through 6 months after treatment. The histologic and molecular analyses showed no significant differences in AAV5–Dcn vs AAV naked or naïve control groups (P > 0.05) and were in accordance with the masked clinical ophthalmic observations showing no abnormalities. Conclusions Topical tissue-targeted localized AAV5–Dcn gene therapy seems to be safe and nontoxic to the rabbit eye in vivo. Translational Relevance AAV5–Dcn gene therapy has the potential to treat corneal fibrosis and neovascularization in vivo safely without significant ocular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.,Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Praveen K Balne
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Maryam S Muayad
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ratnakar Tripathi
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nishant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Suneel Gupta
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jella A An
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Prashant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nathan P Hesemann
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA.,One-Health Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Amador C, Shah R, Ghiam S, Kramerov AA, Ljubimov AV. Gene therapy in the anterior eye segment. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 22:104-131. [PMID: 33902406 DOI: 10.2174/1566523221666210423084233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This review provides comprehensive information about the advances in gene therapy in the anterior segment of the eye including cornea, conjunctiva, lacrimal gland, and trabecular meshwork. We discuss gene delivery systems including viral and non-viral vectors as well as gene editing techniques, mainly CRISPR-Cas9, and epigenetic treatments including antisense and siRNA therapeutics. We also provide a detailed analysis of various anterior segment diseases where gene therapy has been tested with corresponding outcomes. Disease conditions include corneal and conjunctival fibrosis and scarring, corneal epithelial wound healing, corneal graft survival, corneal neovascularization, genetic corneal dystrophies, herpetic keratitis, glaucoma, dry eye disease, and other ocular surface diseases. Although most of the analyzed results on the use and validity of gene therapy at the ocular surface have been obtained in vitro or using animal models, we also discuss the available human studies. Gene therapy approaches are currently considered very promising as emerging future treatments of various diseases, and this field is rapidly expanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Amador
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ruchi Shah
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sean Ghiam
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Andrei A Kramerov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Wang Y, Gao G, Wu Y, Wang Y, Wu X, Zhou Q. S100A4 Silencing Facilitates Corneal Wound Healing After Alkali Burns by Promoting Autophagy via Blocking the PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:19. [PMID: 32926102 PMCID: PMC7490227 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.11.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the role of S100 calcium binding protein A4 (S100A4) in corneal wound healing and the underlying mechanism of the S100A4-mediated PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Methods The rabbit corneal alkali burn model was established in vivo. S100A4 expression, wound healing, inflammation, and autophagy in rabbit cornea after alkali burn were detected. The NaOH-treated rabbit corneal stromal cells (rCSCs) were transfected with overexpressed S100A4 or silencing S100A4 to examine the effect of S100A4 on corneal wound healing in vitro. The effect of S100A4 on cell viability, proliferation, migration, invasion, fibrosis, and autophagy of rCSCs after alkali burn was analyzed. Then the functional rescue experiments were carried out. The PI3K inhibitor, LY294002, was used to elucidate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in rCSCs. Results S100A4 silencing promoted rabbit corneal wound healing by inhibiting fibrosis and inflammation and promoting autophagy in alkali-burned cornea, corresponding to increased levels of LC3, Beclin 1, and Atg4B but lowered α-smooth muscle actin, TNF-ɑ, and p62 levels. Moreover, silencing S100A4 inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and fibrosis of NaOH-treated rCSCs and promoted the differentiation of rCSCs into corneal cells and the autophagy of damaged rCSCs. The inhibitory role of S100A4 in wound healing was achieved via activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Conclusions S100A4 silencing confers a promising effect on wound healing of alkali-burned cornea by blocking the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, supporting the advancement of corneal gene therapies for wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Guiping Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiaorong Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, P.R. China
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10
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Novel nanopolymer RNA therapeutics normalize human diabetic corneal wound healing and epithelial stem cells. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2021; 32:102332. [PMID: 33181273 PMCID: PMC8107190 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2020.102332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Human diabetic corneas develop delayed wound healing, epithelial stem cell dysfunction, recurrent erosions, and keratitis. Adenoviral gene therapy modulating c-Met, cathepsin F and MMP-10 normalized wound healing and epithelial stem cells in organ-cultured diabetic corneas but showed toxicity in stem cell-enriched cultured limbal epithelial cells (LECs). For a safer treatment, we engineered a novel nanobiopolymer (NBC) that carried antisense oligonucleotide (AON) RNA therapeutics suppressing cathepsin F or MMP-10, and miR-409-3p that inhibits c-Met. NBC was internalized by LECs through transferrin receptor (TfR)-mediated endocytosis, inhibited cathepsin F or MMP-10 and upregulated c-Met. Non-toxic NBC modulating c-Met and cathepsin F accelerated wound healing in diabetic LECs and organ-cultured corneas vs. control NBC. NBC treatment normalized levels of stem cell markers (keratins 15 and 17, ABCG2, and ΔNp63), and signaling mediators (p-EGFR, p-Akt and p-p38). Non-toxic nano RNA therapeutics thus present a safe alternative to viral gene therapy for normalizing diabetic corneal cells.
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11
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Mobaraki M, Soltani M, Zare Harofte S, L. Zoudani E, Daliri R, Aghamirsalim M, Raahemifar K. Biodegradable Nanoparticle for Cornea Drug Delivery: Focus Review. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1232. [PMID: 33353013 PMCID: PMC7765989 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During recent decades, researchers all around the world have focused on the characteristic pros and cons of the different drug delivery systems for cornea tissue change for sense organs. The delivery of various drugs for cornea tissue is one of the most attractive and challenging activities for researchers in biomaterials, pharmacology, and ophthalmology. This method is so important for cornea wound healing because of the controllable release rate and enhancement in drug bioavailability. It should be noted that the delivery of various kinds of drugs into the different parts of the eye, especially the cornea, is so difficult because of the unique anatomy and various barriers in the eye. Nanoparticles are investigated to improve drug delivery systems for corneal disease. Biodegradable nanocarriers for repeated corneal drug delivery is one of the most attractive and challenging methods for corneal drug delivery because they have shown acceptable ability for this purpose. On the other hand, by using these kinds of nanoparticles, a drug could reside in various part of the cornea for longer. In this review, we summarized all approaches for corneal drug delivery with emphasis on the biodegradable nanoparticles, such as liposomes, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, niosomes, microemulsions, nanosuspensions, and hydrogels. Moreover, we discuss the anatomy of the cornea at first and gene therapy at the end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadmahdi Mobaraki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran 15875‐4413, Iran;
- Translational Ophthalmology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran 1417614411, Iran;
| | - Madjid Soltani
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Faculty of Science, School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19967-15433, Iran; (S.Z.H.); (E.L.Z.); (R.D.)
- Centre for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (CBB), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Advanced Bioengineering Initiative Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
- Computational Medicine Center, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
| | - Samaneh Zare Harofte
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19967-15433, Iran; (S.Z.H.); (E.L.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Elham L. Zoudani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19967-15433, Iran; (S.Z.H.); (E.L.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Roshanak Daliri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran 19967-15433, Iran; (S.Z.H.); (E.L.Z.); (R.D.)
| | - Mohamadreza Aghamirsalim
- Translational Ophthalmology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran 1417614411, Iran;
| | - Kaamran Raahemifar
- Faculty of Science, School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Program, College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), Penn State University, State College, Pennsylvania, PA 16801, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khoud, Muscat 123, Oman
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12
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Mohan RR, Martin LM, Sinha NR. Novel insights into gene therapy in the cornea. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108361. [PMID: 33212142 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Corneal disease remains a leading cause of impaired vision world-wide, and advancements in gene therapy continue to develop with promising success to prevent, treat and cure blindness. Ideally, gene therapy requires a vector and gene delivery method that targets treatment of specific cells or tissues and results in a safe and non-immunogenic response. The cornea is a model tissue for gene therapy due to its ease of clinician access and immune-privileged state. Improvements in the past 5-10 years have begun to revolutionize the approach to gene therapy in the cornea with a focus on adeno-associated virus and nanoparticle delivery of single and combination gene therapies. In addition, the potential applications of gene editing (zinc finger nucleases [ZNFs], transcription activator-like effector nucleases [TALENs], Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Associated Systems [CRISPR/Cas9]) are rapidly expanding. This review focuses on recent developments in gene therapy for corneal diseases, including promising multiple gene therapy, while outlining a practical approach to the development of such therapies and potential impediments to successful delivery of genes to the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States; One-health Vision Research Center, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States; Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States.
| | - Lynn M Martin
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States; One-health Vision Research Center, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Nishant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, United States; One-health Vision Research Center, Departments of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
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13
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Deng SX, Dos Santos A, Gee S. Therapeutic Potential of Extracellular Vesicles for the Treatment of Corneal Injuries and Scars. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:1. [PMID: 33200043 PMCID: PMC7645240 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.12.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection, trauma, and chemical exposure of the ocular surface can severely damage the cornea, resulting in visually significant stromal scars. Current medical treatments are ineffective in mitigating corneal scarring, and corneal transplantation is the only therapy able to restore vision in these eyes. However, because of a severe shortage of corneal tissues, risks of blinding complications associated with corneal transplants, and a higher rate of graft failure in these eyes, an effective and deliverable alternative therapy for the prevention and treatment of corneal scarring remains a significant unmet medical need globally. In recent years, the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by cells to mediate cell-cell communication has been a topic of increasing interest. EVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells, in particular human corneal stromal stem cells, have antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects in injured corneas. The exact mechanism of action of these functional EVs are largely unknown. Therapeutic development of EVs is at an early stage and warrants further preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie X. Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Aurelie Dos Santos
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Serina Gee
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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14
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Rodier JT, Tripathi R, Fink MK, Sharma A, Korampally M, Gangopadhyay S, Giuliano EA, Sinha PR, Mohan RR. Linear Polyethylenimine-DNA Nanoconstruct for Corneal Gene Delivery. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2020; 35:23-31. [PMID: 30699061 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2018.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated the efficiency and potential toxicity of a linear 22-kDa polyethylenimine (PEI)-DNA nanoconstruct for delivering genes to corneal cells and the effects of PEI nitrogen-to-DNA phosphate (N:P) ratio on gene transfer efficiency in vitro and in vivo. METHODS A gel retardation assay, zeta potential measurement, bright-field microscopy, transfection with green fluorescent protein (GFP), immunofluorescence, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to characterize the physicochemical and biological properties and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay for cytotoxicity of the linear PEI-DNA nanoconstruct using in vitro cultured primary human corneal fibroblast and in vivo mouse models. RESULTS Of the several evaluated N:P ratios, the highest gene transfection efficiency achieved without any notable cytotoxicity was observed at an N:P ratio of 30:1 (N:P 30). In vivo gene transfer studies revealed substantial GFP gene delivery into the corneas of mice 3 days after a single 5-min topical application without any significant adverse ocular effects. Slit-lamp biomicroscope ophthalmic examination of the mouse exposed to the linear PEI-DNA nanoconstruct showed no evidence of hyperemia (redness), corneal edema, ocular inflammation, or epiphora (excessive tearing). CONCLUSIONS The 22-kDa linear PEI-DNA nanoconstruct is an efficient and well-tolerated vector for corneal gene therapy in vitro and in vivo and could be used as a platform for developing novel gene-based nanomedicine approaches for corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason T Rodier
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 2 Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine & Vision, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Ratnakar Tripathi
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Michael K Fink
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Ajay Sharma
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Madhuri Korampally
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 4 Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Shubhra Gangopadhyay
- 4 Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Elizabeth A Giuliano
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Prashant R Sinha
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- 1 Research Divison, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri
- 2 Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine & Vision, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
- 3 One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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15
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Lu XX, Zhao SZ. Gene-based Therapeutic Tools in the Treatment of Cornea Disease. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 19:7-19. [PMID: 30543166 DOI: 10.2174/1566523219666181213120634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As one of the main blinding ocular diseases, corneal blindness resulted from neovascularization that disrupts the angiogenic privilege of corneal avascularity. Following neovascularization, inflammatory cells are infiltrating into cornea to strengthen corneal injury. How to maintain corneal angiogenic privilege to treat corneal disease has been investigated for decades. METHODOLOGY Local administration of viral and non-viral-mediated anti-angiogenic factors reduces angiogenic protein expression in situ with limited or free of off-target effects upon gene delivery. Recently, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have been studied to treat corneal diseases. Once MSCs are manipulated to express certain genes of interest, they could achieve superior therapeutic efficacy after transplantation. DISCUSSION In the text, we first introduce the pathological development of corneal disease in the aspects of neovascularization and inflammation. We summarize how MSCs become an ideal candidate in cell therapy for treating injured cornea, focusing on cell biology, property and features. We provide an updated review of gene-based therapies in animals and preclinical studies in the aspects of controlling target gene expression, safety and efficacy. Gene transfer vectors are potent to induce candidate protein expression. Delivered by vectors, MSCs are equipped with certain characters by expressing a protein of interest, which facilitates better for MSC-mediated therapeutic intervention for the treatment of corneal disease. CONCLUSION As the core of this review, we discuss how MSCs could be engineered to be vector system to achieve enhanced therapeutic efficiency after injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xiao Lu
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Institute, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Shao-Zhen Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital and Institute, Tianjin 300384, China
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16
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Alvarez-Rivera F, Rey-Rico A, Venkatesan JK, Diaz-Gomez L, Cucchiarini M, Concheiro A, Alvarez-Lorenzo C. Controlled Release of rAAV Vectors from APMA-Functionalized Contact Lenses for Corneal Gene Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12040335. [PMID: 32283694 PMCID: PMC7238179 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12040335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
As an alternative to eye drops and ocular injections for gene therapy, the aim of this work was to design for the first time hydrogel contact lenses that can act as platforms for the controlled delivery of viral vectors (recombinant adeno-associated virus, rAAV) to the eye in an effective way with improved patient compliance. Hydrogels of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) with aminopropyl methacrylamide (APMA) (H1: 40, and H2: 80 mM) or without (Hc: 0 mM) were synthesized, sterilized by steam heat (121 °C, 20 min), and then tested for gene therapy using rAAV vectors to deliver the genes to the cornea. The hydrogels showed adequate light transparency, oxygen permeability, and swelling for use as contact lenses. Loading of viral vectors (rAAV-lacZ, rAAV-RFP, or rAAV-hIGF-I) was carried out at 4 °C to maintain viral vector titer. Release in culture medium was monitored by fluorescence with Cy3-rAAV-lacZ and AAV Titration ELISA. Transduction efficacy was tested through reporter genes lacZ and RFP in human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). lacZ was detected with X-Gal staining and quantified with Beta-Glo®, and RFP was monitored by fluorescence. The ability of rAAV-hIGF-I-loaded hydrogels to trigger cell proliferation in hMSCs was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Finally, the ability of rAAV-lacZ-loaded hydrogels to transduce bovine cornea was confirmed through detection with X-Gal staining of β-galactosidase expressed within the tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Alvarez-Rivera
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+DFarma, Facultad de Farmacia and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (F.A.-R.); (L.D.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Ana Rey-Rico
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Unit, Centro de Investigacións Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Universidade da Coruña, Campus de A Coruña, 15071 A Coruña, Spain;
| | - Jagadeesh K Venkatesan
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany; (J.K.V.); (M.C.)
| | - Luis Diaz-Gomez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+DFarma, Facultad de Farmacia and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (F.A.-R.); (L.D.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Magali Cucchiarini
- Center of Experimental Orthopaedics, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany; (J.K.V.); (M.C.)
| | - Angel Concheiro
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+DFarma, Facultad de Farmacia and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (F.A.-R.); (L.D.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Carmen Alvarez-Lorenzo
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+DFarma, Facultad de Farmacia and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (F.A.-R.); (L.D.-G.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-881815239
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17
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Shabani A, Atyabi F, Khoshayand MR, Mahbod R, Cohan RA, Akbarzadeh I, Bakhshandeh H. Design of Experiment, Preparation, and in vitro Biological Assessment of Human Amniotic Membrane Extract Loaded Nanoparticles. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:256-267. [DOI: 10.2174/1389201020666191019122130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background:
Human amniotic membrane grafting could be potentially useful in ocular surface
complications due to tissue similarity and the presence of factors that reduce inflammation, vascularization,
and scarring. However, considerations like donor-derived infectious risk and the requirement
of an invasive surgery limit the clinical application of such treatments. Moreover, the quick depletion
of bioactive factors after grafting reduces the efficacy of treatments. Therefore, in the current
study, the possibility of nano delivery of the bioactive factors extracted from the human amniotic
membrane to the ocular surface was investigated.
Materials and methods:
Nanoparticles were prepared using polyelectrolyte complexation from chitosan
and dextran sulfate. The effect of polymer ratio, pH, and the amount of extract on particle size
and encapsulation efficacy were studied using Box-Behnken response surface methodology.
Results:
The optimum condition was obtained as follows: 4.9:1 ratio of dextran sulfate to chitosan, 600
µL amniotic membrane extract, and pH of 6. The prepared nanoparticles had an average size of 213
nm with 77% encapsulation efficacy. In the release test, after 10 days, approximately 50% of entrapped
bioactive proteins were released from the nanocarriers in a controlled manner. Biological activity assessment
on endothelial cells revealed amniotic membrane extract loaded nanoparticles had a longer
and significant increase in anti-angiogenic effect when compared to the control.
Conclusion:
Our data elucidate the ability of nanotechnology in ocular targeted nano delivery of bioactive
compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avishan Shabani
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad R. Khoshayand
- Department of Drug and Food Control, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mahbod
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza A. Cohan
- Nanobiotechnology Department, New Technologies Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iman Akbarzadeh
- Department of Chemical and Petrochemical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haleh Bakhshandeh
- Nanobiotechnology Department, New Technologies Research Group, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Systematic Review on Therapeutic Strategies to Minimize Corneal Stromal Scarring After Injury. Eye Contact Lens 2020; 45:347-355. [PMID: 30724841 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate recent studies on available and experimental therapies in preventing or minimizing corneal stromal scarring after injury. METHODS We performed an Entrez PubMed literature search using keywords "cornea," "scarring," "haze," "opacity," "ulcer," "treatments," "therapies," "treatment complications," and "pathophysiology" resulting in 390 articles of which 12 were analyzed after filtering, based on English language and publication within 8 years, and curation for relevance by the authors. RESULTS The 12 articles selected included four randomized control trials (RCTs) (two were double-blinded placebo-controlled RCTs, one was a prospective partially masked RCT, and one was an open-label RCT), two retrospective observational studies, and six laboratory-based studies including two studies having in vivo and in vitro experiments, one was in vivo study, one was ex vivo study, and the last two were in vitro studies. The current mainstay for preventing or minimizing corneal scarring involves the use of topical corticosteroids and local application of mitomycin C. However, supportive evidence for their use in clinical practice from well-designed RCTs is lacking. Laboratory studies on topical rosiglitazone therapy, vitamin C prophylaxis, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy have shown promising results but have yet to be translated to clinical research. CONCLUSION There is a need for more robust randomized controlled trials to support treatments using topical corticosteroids and mitomycin C. Furthermore, their clinical efficacy and safety profile should be compared with new treatments that have shown promising results in the laboratory setting. Ultimately, the goal should be to personalize cornea scarring treatment according to the most effective treatment for the specific underlying pathology.
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19
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Torrecilla J, Gómez-Aguado I, Vicente-Pascual M, Del Pozo-Rodríguez A, Solinís MÁ, Rodríguez-Gascón A. MMP-9 Downregulation with Lipid Nanoparticles for Inhibiting Corneal Neovascularization by Gene Silencing. NANOMATERIALS 2019; 9:nano9040631. [PMID: 31003493 PMCID: PMC6523231 DOI: 10.3390/nano9040631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Gene silencing targeting proangiogenic factors have been shown to be a useful strategy in the treatment of corneal neovascularization (CNV). Among interference RNA (RNAi) molecules, short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) is a plasmid-coded RNA able to down-regulate the expression of the desired gene. It is continuously produced in the host cell, inducing a durable gene silencing effect. The aim of this work was to develop a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN)-based shRNA delivery system to downregulate metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), a proangiogenic factor, in corneal cells for the treatment of CNV associated with inflammation. The nanovectors were prepared using a solvent emulsification-evaporation technique, and after physicochemical evaluation, they were evaluated in different culture cell models. Transfection efficacy, cell internalization, cell viability, the effect on MMP-9 expression, and cell migration were evaluated in human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2). The inhibition of tube formation using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was also assayed. The non-viral vectors based on SLN were able to downregulate the MMP-9 expression in HCE-2 cells via gene silencing, and, consequently, to inhibit cell migration and tube formation. These results demonstrate the potential of lipid nanoparticles as gene delivery systems for the treatment of CNV-associated inflammation by RNAi technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josune Torrecilla
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Itziar Gómez-Aguado
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Mónica Vicente-Pascual
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Ana Del Pozo-Rodríguez
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - María Ángeles Solinís
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Alicia Rodríguez-Gascón
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
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20
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Sharif Z, Sharif W. Corneal neovascularization: updates on pathophysiology, investigations & management. Rom J Ophthalmol 2019; 63:15-22. [PMID: 31198893 PMCID: PMC6531773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. Corneal neovascularization is a sight-threatening condition affecting more than 1.4 million people per year. Left untreated, it can lead to tissue scarring, oedema, lipid deposition, and persistent inflammation that may significantly affect visual prognosis and quality of life. The aim was to review the recent evidence relating to the pathophysiology, investigations and management of corneal neovascularization. Methods. Literature review of prospective and retrospective studies, clinical trials and animal models relating to the pathophysiology, investigation and management of corneal neovascularization. Results. Corneal neovascularization is characterized by the invasion of new blood vessels into the cornea caused by an imbalance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors that preserve corneal transparency as a result of various ocular insults and hypoxic injuries. Risk factors that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease include contact lens wear, ocular surface disease, trauma, previous surgery and herpes. The results highlighted the current and future management modalities of corneal neovascularization, which includes corneal transplantation, laser - phototherapy, injections and topical treatment. Conclusion. The future of corneal neovascularization is promising and this paper discusses the upcoming revolution in local gene therapy. Abbreviations. HSK = herpes stromal keratitis, VEGF = vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGFR-1 = VEGF Receptor-1, FGF = Fibroblast growth factor, PDGF = Platelet-derived growth factor, IL-6 = interleukin-6, IL-7 = interleukin-7, IL-8 = interleukin-8, IRS-1 = insulin receptor substrate-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhair Sharif
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Walid Sharif
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Jordan Hospital, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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21
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Gupta S, Fink MK, Ghosh A, Tripathi R, Sinha PR, Sharma A, Hesemann NP, Chaurasia SS, Giuliano EA, Mohan RR. Novel Combination BMP7 and HGF Gene Therapy Instigates Selective Myofibroblast Apoptosis and Reduces Corneal Haze In Vivo. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:1045-1057. [PMID: 29490341 PMCID: PMC5822743 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We tested the potential of bone morphogenic protein 7 (BMP7) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) combination gene therapy to treat preformed corneal fibrosis using established rabbit in vivo and human in vitro models. Methods Eighteen New Zealand White rabbits were used. Corneal fibrosis was produced by alkali injury. Twenty-four hours after scar formation, cornea received topically either balanced salt solution (BSS; n = 6), polyethylenimine-conjugated gold nanoparticle (PEI2-GNP)-naked plasmid (n = 6) or PEI2-GNP plasmids expressing BMP7 and HGF genes (n = 6). Donor human corneas were used to obtain primary human corneal fibroblasts and myofibroblasts for mechanistic studies. Gene therapy effects on corneal fibrosis and ocular safety were evaluated by slit-lamp microscope, stereo microscopes, quantitative real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, TUNEL, modified MacDonald-Shadduck scoring system, and Draize tests. Results PEI2-GNP–mediated BMP7+HGF gene therapy significantly decreased corneal fibrosis in live rabbits in vivo (Fantes scale was 0.6 in BMP7+HGF-treated eyes compared to 3.3 in −therapy group; P < 0.001). Corneas that received BMP7+HGF demonstrated significantly reduced mRNA levels of profibrotic genes: α-SMA (3.2-fold; P < 0.01), fibronectin (2.3-fold, P < 0.01), collagen I (2.1-fold, P < 0.01), collagen III (1.6-fold, P < 0.01), and collagen IV (1.9-fold, P < 0.01) compared to the −therapy corneas. Furthermore, BMP7+HGF-treated corneas showed significantly fewer myofibroblasts compared to the −therapy controls (83%; P < 0.001). The PEI2-GNP introduced >104 gene copies per microgram DNA of BMP7 and HGF genes. The recombinant HGF rendered apoptosis in corneal myofibroblasts but not in fibroblasts. Localized topical BMP7+HGF therapy showed no ocular toxicity. Conclusions Localized topical BMP7+HGF gene therapy treats corneal fibrosis and restores transparency in vivo mitigating excessive healing and rendering selective apoptosis in myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel Gupta
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Michael K Fink
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, India
| | - Ratnakar Tripathi
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Prashant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Nathan P Hesemann
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,Mason Eye Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Shyam S Chaurasia
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Giuliano
- One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States.,Mason Eye Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, United States
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22
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Moore CT, Christie KA, Marshall J, Nesbit MA. Personalised genome editing – The future for corneal dystrophies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 65:147-165. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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23
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Liu S, Romano V, Steger B, Kaye SB, Hamill KJ, Willoughby CE. Gene-based antiangiogenic applications for corneal neovascularization. Surv Ophthalmol 2018; 63:193-213. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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24
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Lu Y, Tai PWL, Ai J, Gessler DJ, Su Q, Yao X, Zheng Q, Zamore PD, Xu X, Gao G. Transcriptome Profiling of Neovascularized Corneas Reveals miR-204 as a Multi-target Biotherapy Deliverable by rAAVs. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 10:349-360. [PMID: 29499946 PMCID: PMC5862543 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Corneal neovascularization (NV) is the major sight-threatening pathology caused by angiogenic stimuli. Current drugs that directly target pro-angiogenic factors to inhibit or reverse the disease require multiple rounds of administration and have limited efficacies. Here, we identify potential anti-angiogenic corneal microRNAs (miRNAs) and demonstrate a framework that employs discovered miRNAs as biotherapies deliverable by recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs). By querying differentially expressed miRNAs in neovascularized mouse corneas induced by alkali burn, we have revealed 39 miRNAs that are predicted to target more than 5,500 differentially expressed corneal mRNAs. Among these, we selected miR-204 and assessed its efficacy and therapeutic benefit for treating injured corneas. Our results show that delivery of miR-204 by rAAV normalizes multiple novel target genes and biological pathways to attenuate vascularization of injured mouse cornea. Importantly, this gene therapy treatment alternative is efficacious and safe for mitigating corneal NV. Overall, our work demonstrates the discovery of potential therapeutic miRNAs in corneal disorders and their translation into viable treatment alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai 200080, China; Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Phillip W L Tai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Urology, Institute for Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Dominic J Gessler
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Qin Su
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Xieyi Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Research and Development Center, Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceuticals Group Co., Chengdu, Sichuan 610036, China
| | - Phillip D Zamore
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Xun Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai 200080, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Guangping Gao
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Urology, Institute for Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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25
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Shu DY, Lovicu FJ. Myofibroblast transdifferentiation: The dark force in ocular wound healing and fibrosis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 60:44-65. [PMID: 28807717 PMCID: PMC5600870 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing is one of the most complex biological processes to occur in life. Repair of tissue following injury involves dynamic interactions between multiple cell types, growth factors, inflammatory mediators and components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Aberrant and uncontrolled wound healing leads to a non-functional mass of fibrotic tissue. In the eye, fibrotic disease disrupts the normally transparent ocular tissues resulting in irreversible loss of vision. A common feature in fibrotic eye disease is the transdifferentiation of cells into myofibroblasts that can occur through a process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Myofibroblasts rapidly produce excessive amounts of ECM and exert tractional forces across the ECM, resulting in the distortion of tissue architecture. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) plays a major role in myofibroblast transdifferentiation and has been implicated in numerous fibrotic eye diseases including corneal opacification, pterygium, anterior subcapsular cataract, posterior capsular opacification, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, fibrovascular membrane formation associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, submacular fibrosis, glaucoma and orbital fibrosis. This review serves to introduce the pathological functions of the myofibroblast in fibrotic eye disease. We also highlight recent developments in elucidating the multiple signaling pathways involved in fibrogenesis that may be exploited in the development of novel anti-fibrotic therapies to reduce ocular morbidity due to scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Y Shu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Frank J Lovicu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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26
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Nano-ophthalmology: Applications and considerations. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:1459-1472. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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27
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Gupta S, Rodier JT, Sharma A, Giuliano EA, Sinha PR, Hesemann NP, Ghosh A, Mohan RR. Targeted AAV5-Smad7 gene therapy inhibits corneal scarring in vivo. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172928. [PMID: 28339457 PMCID: PMC5365107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal scarring is due to aberrant activity of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathway following traumatic, mechanical, infectious, or surgical injury. Altered TGFβ signaling cascade leads to downstream Smad (Suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic) protein-mediated signaling events that regulate expression of extracellular matrix and myogenic proteins. These events lead to transdifferentiation of keratocytes into myofibroblasts through fibroblasts and often results in permanent corneal scarring. Hence, therapeutic targets that reduce transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts may provide a clinically relevant approach to treat corneal fibrosis and improve long-term visual outcomes. Smad7 protein regulates the functional effects of TGFβ signaling during corneal wound healing. We tested that targeted delivery of Smad7 using recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5-Smad7) delivered to the corneal stroma can inhibit corneal haze post photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in vivo in a rabbit corneal injury model. We demonstrate that a single topical application of AAV5-Smad7 in rabbit cornea post-PRK led to a significant decrease in corneal haze and corneal fibrosis. Further, histopathology revealed lack of immune cell infiltration following AAV5-Smad7 gene transfer into the corneal stroma. Our data demonstrates that AAV5-Smad7 gene therapy is relatively safe with significant potential for the treatment of corneal disease currently resulting in fibrosis and impaired vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel Gupta
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Jason T. Rodier
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Giuliano
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Prashant R. Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Nathan P. Hesemann
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Rajiv R. Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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28
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Hardee CL, Arévalo-Soliz LM, Hornstein BD, Zechiedrich L. Advances in Non-Viral DNA Vectors for Gene Therapy. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:E65. [PMID: 28208635 PMCID: PMC5333054 DOI: 10.3390/genes8020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Uses of viral vectors have thus far eclipsed uses of non-viral vectors for gene therapy delivery in the clinic. Viral vectors, however, have certain issues involving genome integration, the inability to be delivered repeatedly, and possible host rejection. Fortunately, development of non-viral DNA vectors has progressed steadily, especially in plasmid vector length reduction, now allowing these tools to fill in specifically where viral or other non-viral vectors may not be the best options. In this review, we examine the improvements made to non-viral DNA gene therapy vectors, highlight opportunities for their further development, address therapeutic needs for which their use is the logical choice, and discuss their future expansion into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinnamon L. Hardee
- Interdepartmental Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.M.A.-S.); (B.D.H.)
| | - Lirio Milenka Arévalo-Soliz
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.M.A.-S.); (B.D.H.)
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Benjamin D. Hornstein
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.M.A.-S.); (B.D.H.)
| | - Lynn Zechiedrich
- Interdepartmental Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.M.A.-S.); (B.D.H.)
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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29
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Qin Q, Luo D, Shi Y, Zhao Q, Chen Y, Wu J, Zhao M. CD25 siRNA induces Treg/Th1 cytokine expression in rat corneal transplantation models. Exp Eye Res 2016; 151:134-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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30
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Lajunen T, Nurmi R, Kontturi L, Viitala L, Yliperttula M, Murtomäki L, Urtti A. Light activated liposomes: Functionality and prospects in ocular drug delivery. J Control Release 2016; 244:157-166. [PMID: 27565215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ocular drug delivery, especially to the retina and choroid, is a major challenge in drug development. Liposome technology may be useful in ophthalmology in enabling new routes of delivery, prolongation of drug action and intracellular drug delivery, but drug release from the liposomes should be controlled. For that purpose, light activation may be an approach to release drug at specified time and site in the eye. Technical advances have been made in the field of light activated drug release, particularly indocyanine green loaded liposomes are a promising approach with safe materials and effective light triggered release of small and large molecules. This review discusses the liposomal drug delivery with light activated systems in the context of ophthalmic drug delivery challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatu Lajunen
- Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Riikka Nurmi
- Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Kontturi
- Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lauri Viitala
- Department of Chemistry, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - Marjo Yliperttula
- Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Arto Urtti
- Centre for Drug Research, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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31
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Kumar P, Pandit A, Zeugolis DI. Progress in Corneal Stromal Repair: From Tissue Grafts and Biomaterials to Modular Supramolecular Tissue-Like Assemblies. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2016; 28:5381-5399. [PMID: 27028373 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201503986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Corneal injuries and degenerative conditions have major socioeconomic consequences, given that in most cases, they result in blindness. In the quest of the ideal therapy, tissue grafts, biomaterials, and modular engineering approaches are under intense investigation. Herein, advancements and shortfalls are reviewed and future perspectives for these therapeutic strategies discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod Kumar
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
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Rodríguez-Gascón A, Del Pozo-Rodríguez A, Isla A, Solinís MA. Vaginal gene therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 92:71-83. [PMID: 26189799 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, vaginal gene therapy has gained increasing attention mainly for the treatment and control of sexually transmitted infections. DNA delivery has been also suggested to improve reproductive outcomes for women with deficiencies in the female reproductive tract. Although no product has reached clinical phase, preclinical investigations reveal the potential of the vaginal tract as an effective administration route for gene delivery. This review focuses on the main advantages and challenges of vaginal gene therapy, and on the most used nucleic acid delivery systems, including viral and non-viral vectors. Additionally, the advances in the application of vaginal gene therapy for the treatment and/or prevention of infectious diseases such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the human papillomavirus (HPV) or the herpes simplex virus (HSV) are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Rodríguez-Gascón
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad, 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
| | - Ana Del Pozo-Rodríguez
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad, 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Arantxazu Isla
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad, 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - María Angeles Solinís
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de investigación Lascaray ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad, 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
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33
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Bogner B, Boye SL, Min SH, Peterson JJ, Ruan Q, Zhang Z, Reitsamer HA, Hauswirth WW, Boye SE. Capsid Mutated Adeno-Associated Virus Delivered to the Anterior Chamber Results in Efficient Transduction of Trabecular Meshwork in Mouse and Rat. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128759. [PMID: 26052939 PMCID: PMC4460001 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adeno associated virus (AAV) is well known for its ability to deliver transgenes to retina and to mediate improvements in animal models and patients with inherited retinal disease. Although the field is less advanced, there is growing interest in AAV’s ability to target cells of the anterior segment. The purpose of our study was to fully articulate a reliable and reproducible method for injecting the anterior chamber (AC) of mice and rats and to investigate the transduction profiles of AAV2- and AAV8-based capsid mutants containing self-complementary (sc) genomes in the anterior segment of the eye. Methodology/Principle Findings AC injections were performed in C57BL/6 mice and Sprague Dawley rats. The cornea was punctured anterior of the iridocorneal angle. To seal the puncture site and to prevent reflux an air bubble was created in the AC. scAAVs expressing GFP were injected and transduction was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Both parent serotype and capsid modifications affected expression. scAAV2- based vectors mediated efficient GFP-signal in the corneal endothelium, ciliary non-pigmented epithelium (NPE), iris and chamber angle including trabecular meshwork, with scAAV2(Y444F) and scAAV2(triple) being the most efficient. Conclusions/Significance This is the first study to semi quantitatively evaluate transduction of anterior segment tissues following injection of capsid-mutated AAV vectors. scAAV2- based vectors transduced corneal endothelium, ciliary NPE, iris and trabecular meshwork more effectively than scAAV8-based vectors. Mutagenesis of surface-exposed tyrosine residues greatly enhanced transduction efficiency of scAAV2 in these tissues. The number of Y-F mutations was not directly proportional to transduction efficiency, however, suggesting that proteosomal avoidance alone may not be sufficient. These results are applicable to the development of targeted, gene-based strategies to investigate pathological processes of the anterior segment and may be applied toward the development of gene-based therapies for glaucoma and acquired or inherited corneal anomalies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Bogner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, SALK/Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sanford L. Boye
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
| | - Seok Hong Min
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
| | - James J. Peterson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
| | - Qing Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
| | - Zhonghong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, SALK/Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Herbert A. Reitsamer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, SALK/Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - William W. Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
| | - Shannon E. Boye
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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34
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Treatment of ocular disorders by gene therapy. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2014; 95:331-42. [PMID: 25536112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2014.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy to treat ocular disorders is still starting, and current therapies are primarily experimental, with most human clinical trials still in research state, although beginning to show encouraging results. Currently 33 clinical trials have been approved, are in progress, or have been completed. The most promising results have been obtained in clinical trials of ocular gene therapy for Leber Congenital Amaurosis, which have prompted the study of several ocular diseases that are good candidates to be treated with gene therapy: glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, or choroideremia. The success of gene therapy relies on the efficient delivery of the genetic material to target cells, achieving optimum long-term gene expression. Although viral vectors have been widely used, their potential risk associated mainly with immunogenicity and mutagenesis has promoted the design of non-viral vectors. In this review, the main administration routes and the most studied delivery systems, viral and non-viral, for ocular gene therapy are presented. The primary ocular disease candidates to be treated with gene therapy have been also reviewed, including the genetic basis and the most relevant preclinical and clinical studies.
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35
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Serratrice N, Cubizolle A, Ibanes S, Mestre-Francés N, Bayo-Puxan N, Creyssels S, Gennetier A, Bernex F, Verdier JM, Haskins ME, Couderc G, Malecaze F, Kalatzis V, Kremer EJ. Corrective GUSB transfer to the canine mucopolysaccharidosis VII cornea using a helper-dependent canine adenovirus vector. J Control Release 2014; 181:22-31. [PMID: 24607662 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transparency is maintained, in part, by specialized fibroblasts called keratocytes, which reside in the fibrous lamellae of the stroma. Corneal clouding, a condition that impairs visual acuity, is associated with numerous diseases, including mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type VII. MPS VII is due to deficiency in β-glucuronidase (β-glu) enzymatic activity, which leads to accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and secondary accumulation of gangliosides. Here, we tested the efficacy of canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) vectors to transduce keratocyte in vivo in mice and nonhuman primates, and ex vivo in dog and human corneal explants. Following efficacy studies, we asked if we could treat corneal clouding by the injection a helper-dependent (HD) CAV-2 vector (HD-RIGIE) harboring the human cDNA coding for β-glu (GUSB) in the canine MPS VII cornea. β-Glu activity, GAG content, and lysosome morphology and physiopathology were analyzed. We found that HD-RIGIE injections efficiently transduced coxsackievirus adenovirus receptor-expressing keratocytes in the four species and, compared to mock-injected controls, improved the pathology in the canine MPS VII cornea. The key criterion to corrective therapy was the steady controlled release of β-glu and its diffusion throughout the collagen-dense stroma. These data support the continued evaluation of HD CAV-2 vectors to treat diseases affecting corneal keratocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Serratrice
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Aurelie Cubizolle
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Sandy Ibanes
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Nadine Mestre-Francés
- Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France; Inserm U710, Montpellier, France; Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Paris, France
| | - Neus Bayo-Puxan
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Creyssels
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Aurelie Gennetier
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Florence Bernex
- Institut Régional du Cancer Montpellier, Inserm U896, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Michel Verdier
- Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France; Inserm U710, Montpellier, France; Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Paris, France
| | - Mark E Haskins
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Guilhem Couderc
- Tissue Bank, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Francois Malecaze
- Inserm U563, Toulouse, France; Departement d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Vasiliki Kalatzis
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France
| | - Eric J Kremer
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS 5535, Montpellier, France; Université de Montpellier I, Montpellier, France; Université Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France.
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Xu Q, Kambhampati SP, Kannan RM. Nanotechnology approaches for ocular drug delivery. Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol 2014; 20:26-37. [PMID: 23580849 PMCID: PMC3617524 DOI: 10.4103/0974-9233.106384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Blindness is a major health concern worldwide that has a powerful impact on afflicted individuals and their families, and is associated with enormous socio-economical consequences. The Middle East is heavily impacted by blindness, and the problem there is augmented by an increasing incidence of diabetes in the population. An appropriate drug/gene delivery system that can sustain and deliver therapeutics to the target tissues and cells is a key need for ocular therapies. The application of nanotechnology in medicine is undergoing rapid progress, and the recent developments in nanomedicine-based therapeutic approaches may bring significant benefits to address the leading causes of blindness associated with cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and retinal degeneration. In this brief review, we highlight some promising nanomedicine-based therapeutic approaches for drug and gene delivery to the anterior and posterior segments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingguo Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Rolfsen ML, Frisard NE, Stern EM, Foster TP, Bhattacharjee PS, McFerrin Jr HE, Clement C, Rodriguez PC, Lukiw WJ, Bergsma DR, Ochoa AC, Hill JM. Corneal neovascularization: a review of the molecular biology and current therapies. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eop.13.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most commonly performed organ transplantation. Immune privilege of the cornea is widely recognized, partly because of the relatively favorable outcome of corneal grafts. The first-time recipient of corneal allografts in an avascular, low-risk setting can expect a 90% success rate without systemic immunosuppressive agents and histocompatibility matching. However, immunologic rejection remains the major cause of graft failure, particularly in patients with a high risk for rejection. Corticosteroids remain the first-line therapy for the prevention and treatment of immune rejection. However, current pharmacological measures are limited in their side-effect profiles, repeated application, lack of targeted response, and short duration of action. Experimental ocular gene therapy may thus present new horizons in immunomodulation. From efficient viral vectors to sustainable alternative splicing, we discuss the progress of gene therapy in promoting graft survival and postulate further avenues for gene-mediated prevention of allogeneic graft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yureeda Qazi
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Chaplot SP, Rupenthal ID. Dendrimers for gene delivery – a potential approach for ocular therapy? J Pharm Pharmacol 2013; 66:542-56. [DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
A vast number of blinding diseases have genetic aetiologies and may be treated by molecular based therapies such as antisense oligonucleotides or short interfering RNA. However, treatment success of ocular gene therapy is highly dependent on efficient delivery of such molecules.
Key findings
The majority of clinical studies for ocular gene therapy utilize viral vectors. While these have proven highly efficient, they show limited loading capacity and pose significant safety risks owing to their oncogenic and immunogenic effects. Non-viral gene carriers have emerged as a promising alternative with dendrimers providing great potential for gene therapy because of their size, shape and high density of modifiable surface groups. However, while dendrimers have been used extensively for drug and gene delivery to other organs, only a few studies have been reported on the eye.
Summary
This review focuses on the development of dendrimers for gene delivery with special emphasis on ocular gene therapy. Different synthesis approaches and types of dendrimers are discussed. Ocular gene therapy targets are highlighted with an overview of current clinical studies. The use of dendrimers in ocular gene delivery in comparison to liposomes and nanoparticles is also discussed. Finally, future prospects of tailored multifunctional dendrimers for ocular gene therapy are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahil P Chaplot
- Drug Delivery Research Unit, School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ilva D Rupenthal
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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BMP7 gene transfer via gold nanoparticles into stroma inhibits corneal fibrosis in vivo. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66434. [PMID: 23799103 PMCID: PMC3682981 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of BMP7 gene transfer on corneal wound healing and fibrosis inhibition in vivo using a rabbit model. Corneal haze in rabbits was produced with the excimer laser performing -9 diopters photorefractive keratectomy. BMP7 gene was introduced into rabbit keratocytes by polyethylimine-conjugated gold nanoparticles (PEI2-GNPs) transfection solution single 5-minute topical application on the eye. Corneal haze and ocular health in live animals was gauged with stereo- and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. The levels of fibrosis [α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), F-actin and fibronectin], immune reaction (CD11b and F4/80), keratocyte apoptosis (TUNEL), calcification (alizarin red, vonKossa and osteocalcin), and delivered-BMP7 gene expression in corneal tissues were quantified with immunofluorescence, western blotting and/or real-time PCR. Human corneal fibroblasts (HCF) and in vitro experiments were used to characterize the molecular mechanism mediating BMP7’s anti-fibrosis effects. PEI2-GNPs showed substantial BMP7 gene delivery into rabbit keratocytes in vivo (2×104 gene copies/ug DNA). Localized BMP7 gene therapy showed a significant corneal haze decrease (1.68±0.31 compared to 3.2±0.43 in control corneas; p<0.05) in Fantes grading scale. Immunostaining and immunoblot analyses detected significantly reduced levels of αSMA (46±5% p<0.001) and fibronectin proteins (48±5% p<0.01). TUNEL, CD11b, and F4/80 assays revealed that BMP7 gene therapy is nonimmunogenic and nontoxic for the cornea. Furthermore, alizarin red, vonKossa and osteocalcin analyses revealed that localized PEI2-GNP-mediated BMP7 gene transfer in rabbit cornea does not cause calcification or osteoblast recruitment. Immunofluorescence of BMP7-transefected HCFs showed significantly increased pSmad-1/5/8 nuclear localization (>88%; p<0.0001), and immunoblotting of BMP7-transefected HCFs grown in the presence of TGFβ demonstrated significantly enhanced pSmad-1/5/8 (95%; p<0.001) and Smad6 (53%, p<0.001), and decreased αSMA (78%; p<0.001) protein levels. These results suggest that localized BMP7 gene delivery in rabbit cornea modulates wound healing and inhibits fibrosis in vivo by counter balancing TGFβ1-mediated profibrotic Smad signaling.
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Donnelly KS, Giuliano EA, Sharma A, Tandon A, Rodier JT, Mohan RR. Decorin-PEI nanoconstruct attenuates equine corneal fibroblast differentiation. Vet Ophthalmol 2013; 17:162-9. [PMID: 23718145 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore (i) the potential of polyethylenimine (PEI) nanoparticles as a vector for delivering genes into equine corneal fibroblasts (ECFs) using green fluorescent protein (GFP) marker gene, (ii) whether PEI nanoparticle-mediated decorin (DCN) gene therapy could be used to inhibit fibrosis in the equine cornea using an in vitro model. PROCEDURE Polyethylenimine-DNA nanoparticles were prepared at nitrogen-to-phosphate (N-P) ratio of 15 by mixing 22 kDa linear PEI and a plasmid encoding either GFP or DCN. ECFs were generated from donor corneas as previously described. Initially, GFP was introduced into ECFs using PEI nanoparticles to confirm gene delivery, then DCN was introduced to evaluate for antifibrotic effects. GFP gene delivery was confirmed with real-time qPCR and ELISA. Changes in fibrosis after DCN therapy were quantified by measuring α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) mRNA and protein levels with qPCR, immunostaining, and immunoblotting. Cytotoxicity was determined by evaluating cell morphology, cellular viability, and TUNEL assay. RESULTS Polyethylenimine-green fluorescent protein-treated cultures showed 2.2 × 10(4) GFP plasmid copies/μg of cellular DNA and 2.1 pg of GFP/100 μL of lysate. PEI-DCN delivery significantly attenuated TGFβ-induced transdifferentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts (2-fold decrease of αSMA mRNA; P = 0.05) and significant inhibition of αSMA (49 ± 14.2%; P < 0.001) in immunocytochemical staining and immunoblotting were found. Furthermore, PEI-DNA nanoparticle delivery did not alter cellular phenotype at 24 h and cellular viability was maintained. CONCLUSIONS Twenty-two kilo dalton Polyethylenimine nanoparticles are safe and effective for equine corneal gene therapy in vitro. PEI-mediated DCN gene delivery is effective at inhibiting TGFβ-mediated fibrosis in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S Donnelly
- Harry S. Truman Veterans Memorial Hospital, 800 Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO, 652012, USA; Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 900 East Campus Drive, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We assess the studies on vector systems for delivery of transgenes to the cornea that have been published over the last year and summarize new work on the identification of specific transgenes for corneal diseases. RECENT FINDINGS Adeno-associated viral vectors are increasingly being successfully applied to the cornea, although transgene expression requires corneal epithelial debridement or intrastromal injection of the vector. Gene delivery platforms based on nanoparticles of chitosan or gold also show promise. Overexpression of vasoinhibin-1 or decorin, or siRNA-mediated blockade of the cannabinoid receptor CB1, can all reduce corneal neovascularization. Overexpression of decorin or matrix metalloproteinase 14 can reduce corneal fibrosis and haze, whereas overexpression of c-Met accelerates the epithelial wound healing. Induction of corneal endothelial cell replication by overexpression of E2F2, p16 or p21 can maintain or even increase corneal endothelial cell density in eye bank corneas. Overexpression of the antiapoptotic transgenes Bcl-xL or p35 significantly enhances corneal endothelial cell survival and reduces apoptosis in stored human corneas. SUMMARY Despite a wealth of information on the methods for the delivery of nucleic acids to the human cornea and ever-increasing information on the transgenes with substantial therapeutic potential, gene therapy for corneal disorders has yet to reach the clinic.
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Corneal gene therapy: basic science and translational perspective. Ocul Surf 2013; 11:150-64. [PMID: 23838017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Corneal blindness is the third leading cause of blindness worldwide. Gene therapy is an emerging technology for corneal blindness due to the accessibility and immune-privileged nature of the cornea, ease of vector administration and visual monitoring, and ability to perform frequent noninvasive corneal assessment. Vision restoration by gene therapy is contingent upon vector and mode of therapeutic gene introduction into targeted cells/tissues. Numerous efficacious vectors, delivery techniques, and approaches have evolved in the last decade for developing gene-based interventions for corneal diseases. Maximizing the potential benefits of gene therapy requires efficient and sustained therapeutic gene expression in target cells, low toxicity, and a high safety profile. This review describes the basic science associated with many gene therapy vectors and the present progress of gene therapy carried out for various ocular surface disorders and diseases.
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Ritter T, Wilk M, Nosov M. Gene Therapy Approaches to Prevent Corneal Graft Rejection: Where Do We Stand? Ophthalmic Res 2013; 50:135-40. [DOI: 10.1159/000350547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Sriram S, Gibson D, Robinson P, Tuli S, Lewin AS, Schultz G. Reduction of corneal scarring in rabbits by targeting the TGFB1 pathway with a triple siRNA combination. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/abb.2013.410a4005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Targeting herpetic keratitis by gene therapy. J Ophthalmol 2012; 2012:594869. [PMID: 23326647 PMCID: PMC3541562 DOI: 10.1155/2012/594869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular gene therapy is rapidly becoming a reality. By November 2012, approximately 28 clinical trials were approved to assess novel gene therapy agents. Viral infections such as herpetic keratitis caused by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) can cause serious complications that may lead to blindness. Recurrence of the disease is likely and cornea transplantation, therefore, might not be the ideal therapeutic solution. This paper will focus on the current situation of ocular gene therapy research against herpetic keratitis, including the use of viral and nonviral vectors, routes of delivery of therapeutic genes, new techniques, and key research strategies. Whereas the correction of inherited diseases was the initial goal of the field of gene therapy, here we discuss transgene expression, gene replacement, silencing, or clipping. Gene therapy of herpetic keratitis previously reported in the literature is screened emphasizing candidate gene therapy targets. Commonly adopted strategies are discussed to assess the relative advantages of the protective therapy using antiviral drugs and the common gene therapy against long-term HSV-1 ocular infections signs, inflammation and neovascularization. Successful gene therapy can provide innovative physiological and pharmaceutical solutions against herpetic keratitis.
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Pediatr 2012; 24:770-9. [PMID: 23146873 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e32835af8de] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Attenuation of corneal myofibroblast development through nanoparticle-mediated soluble transforming growth factor-β type II receptor (sTGFβRII) gene transfer. Mol Vis 2012; 18:2598-607. [PMID: 23112572 PMCID: PMC3482172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore (i) the potential of polyethylenimine (PEI)-DNA nanoparticles as a vector for delivering genes into human corneal fibroblasts, and (ii) whether the nanoparticle-mediated soluble extracellular domain of the transforming growth factor-β type II receptor (sTGFβRII) gene therapy could be used to reduce myofibroblasts and fibrosis in the cornea using an in vitro model. METHODS PEI-DNA nanoparticles were prepared at a nitrogen-to-phosphate ratio of 30 by mixing linear PEI and a plasmid encoding sTGFβRII conjugated to the fragment crystallizable (Fc) portion of human immunoglobulin. The PEI-DNA polyplex formation was confirmed through gel retardation assay. Human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) were generated from donor corneas; myofibroblasts and fibrosis were induced with TGFβ1 (1 ng/ml) stimulation employing serum-free conditions. The sTGFβRII conjugated to the Fc portion of human immunoglobulin gene was introduced into HCF using either PEI-DNA nanoparticles or Lipofectamine. Suitable negative and positive controls to compare selected nanoparticle and therapeutic gene efficiency were included. Delivered gene copies and mRNA (mRNA) expression were quantified with real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and protein with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The changes in fibrosis parameters were quantified by measuring fibrosis marker α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) mRNA and protein levels with qPCR, immunostaining, and immunoblotting. Cytotoxicity was determined using cellular viability, proliferation, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. RESULTS PEI readily bound to plasmids to form nanoparticular polyplexes and exhibited much greater transfection efficiency (p<0.01) than the commercial reagent Lipofectamine. The PEI-DNA-treated cultures showed 4.5×10(4) plasmid copies/µg DNA in real-time qPCR and 7,030±87 pg/ml sTGFβRII protein in ELISA analyses, whereas Lipofectamine-transfected cultures demonstrated 1.9×10(3) gene copies/µg DNA and 1,640±100 pg/ml sTGFβRII protein during these assays. The PEI-mediated sTGFβRII delivery remarkably attenuated TGFβ1-induced transdifferentiation of corneal fibroblasts to myofibroblasts in cultures, as indicated by threefold lower levels of SMA mRNA (p<0.01) and significant inhibition of SMA protein (up to 96±3%; p<0.001 compared to no-gene-delivered cultures) in immunocytochemical staining and immunoblotting. The nanoparticle-mediated delivery of sTGFβRII showed significantly better antifibrotic effects than the Lipofectamine under similar experimental conditions. However, the inhibition of myofibroblast in HCF cultures by sTGFβRII overexpression by either method was significantly higher than the naked vector transfection. Furthermore, PEI- or Lipofectamine-mediated sTGFβRII delivery into HCF did not alter cellular proliferation or phenotype at 12 and 24 h post-treatment. Nanoparticles treated with HCF showed more than 90% cellular viability and very low cell death (2-6 TUNEL+ cells), suggesting that the tested doses of PEI-nanoparticles do not induce significant cell death. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that PEI-DNA nanoparticles are an attractive vector for the development of nonviral corneal gene therapy approaches and that the sTGFβRII gene delivery into keratocytes could be used to control corneal fibrosis in vivo.
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Matthaei M, Meng H, Bhutto I, Xu Q, Boelke E, Hanes J, Jun AS. Systematic assessment of microneedle injection into the mouse cornea. Eur J Med Res 2012; 17:19. [PMID: 22716296 PMCID: PMC3478193 DOI: 10.1186/2047-783x-17-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Corneal intrastromal injection is an important mode of gene-vector application to subepithelial layers. In a mouse model, this procedure is substantially complicated by the reduced corneal dimensions. Furthermore, it may be difficult to estimate the corneal area reached by the volume of a single injection. This study aimed to investigate intrastromal injections into the mouse cornea using different microneedles and to quantify the effect of injecting varying volumes. A reproducible injection technique is described. Methods Forty eyes of 20 129 Sv/J mice were tested. India ink was intrastromally injected using 30° beveled 33 G needles, tri-surface 25° beveled 35 G needles, or hand-pulled and 25° beveled glass needles. Each eye received a single injection of a volume of 1 or 2 μL. Corneoscleral buttons were fixed and flat mounted for computer-assisted quantification of the affected corneal area. Histological assessment was performed to investigate the intrastromal location of the injected dye. Results A mean corneal area of 5.0 ±1.4 mm2 (mean ± SD) and 7.7 ±1.4 mm2 was covered by intrastromal injections of 1 and 2 μL, respectively. The mean percentage of total corneal area reached ranged from 39% to 53% for 1 μL injections, and from 65% to 81% for 2 μL injections. Injections using the 33 G needles tended to provide the highest distribution area. Perforation rates were 8% for 30° beveled 33 G needles and 44% for tri-surface beveled 35 G needles. No perforation was observed with glass needle; however, intrastromal breakage of needle tips was noted in 25% of these cases. Conclusions Intracorneal injection using a 30° beveled 33 G needle was safe and effective. The use of tri-surface beveled 35 G needles substantially increased the number of corneal perforations. Glass needles may break inside the corneal stroma. Injections of 1 μL and 2 μL resulted in an overall mean of 49% and 73% respectively of total corneal area involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Matthaei
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
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Thakur A, Fitzpatrick S, Zaman A, Kugathasan K, Muirhead B, Hortelano G, Sheardown H. Strategies for ocular siRNA delivery: Potential and limitations of non-viral nanocarriers. J Biol Eng 2012; 6:7. [PMID: 22686441 PMCID: PMC3533807 DOI: 10.1186/1754-1611-6-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlling gene expression via small interfering RNA (siRNA) has opened the doors to a plethora of therapeutic possibilities, with many currently in the pipelines of drug development for various ocular diseases. Despite the potential of siRNA technologies, barriers to intracellular delivery significantly limit their clinical efficacy. However, recent progress in the field of drug delivery strongly suggests that targeted manipulation of gene expression via siRNA delivered through nanocarriers can have an enormous impact on improving therapeutic outcomes for ophthalmic applications. Particularly, synthetic nanocarriers have demonstrated their suitability as a customizable multifunctional platform for the targeted intracellular delivery of siRNA and other hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs in ocular applications. We predict that synthetic nanocarriers will simultaneously increase drug bioavailability, while reducing side effects and the need for repeated intraocular injections. This review will discuss the recent advances in ocular siRNA delivery via non-viral nanocarriers and the potential and limitations of various strategies for the development of a ‘universal’ siRNA delivery system for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit Thakur
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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