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Hu B, Wang R, Zhang H, Wang X, Zhou S, Ma B, Luan Y, Wang X, Chen X, Zhang Z, Kang Q. Postnatal development of rat retina: a continuous observation and comparison between the organotypic retinal explant model and in vivo development. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:900-912. [PMID: 38886961 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202503000-00033/figure1/v/2024-06-17T092413Z/r/image-tiff The organotypic retinal explant culture has been established for more than a decade and offers a range of unique advantages compared with in vivo experiments and cell cultures. However, the lack of systematic and continuous comparison between in vivo retinal development and the organotypic retinal explant culture makes this model controversial in postnatal retinal development studies. Thus, we aimed to verify the feasibility of using this model for postnatal retinal development studies by comparing it with the in vivo retina. In this study, we showed that postnatal retinal explants undergo normal development, and exhibit a consistent structure and timeline with retinas in vivo. Initially, we used SOX2 and PAX6 immunostaining to identify retinal progenitor cells. We then examined cell proliferation and migration by immunostaining with Ki-67 and doublecortin, respectively. Ki-67- and doublecortin-positive cells decreased in both in vivo and explants during postnatal retinogenesis, and exhibited a high degree of similarity in abundance and distribution between groups. Additionally, we used Ceh-10 homeodomain-containing homolog, glutamate-ammonia ligase (glutamine synthetase), neuronal nuclei, and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 immunostaining to examine the emergence of bipolar cells, Müller glia, mature neurons, and microglia, respectively. The timing and spatial patterns of the emergence of these cell types were remarkably consistent between in vivo and explant retinas. Our study showed that the organotypic retinal explant culture model had a high degree of consistency with the progression of in vivo early postnatal retina development. The findings confirm the accuracy and credibility of this model and support its use for long-term, systematic, and continuous observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoqi Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hanyue Zhang
- Institute of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiou Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Sijia Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Bo Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yan Luan
- Institute of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xinlin Chen
- Institute of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- Institute of Neurobiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qianyan Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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Yang T, Wang W, Xie L, Chen S, Ye X, Shen S, Chen H, Qi L, Cui Z, Xiong W, Guo Y, Chen J. Investigating retinal explant models cultured in static and perfused systems to test the performance of exosomes secreted from retinal organoids. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 408:110181. [PMID: 38823594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110181] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ex vivo cultures of retinal explants are appropriate models for translational research. However, one of the difficult problems of retinal explants ex vivo culture is that their nutrient supply needs cannot be constantly met. NEW METHOD This study evaluated the effect of perfused culture on the survival of retinal explants, addressing the challenge of insufficient nutrition in static culture. Furthermore, exosomes secreted from retinal organoids (RO-Exos) were stained with PKH26 to track their uptake in retinal explants to mimic the efficacy of exosomal drugs in vivo. RESULTS We found that the retinal explants cultured with perfusion exhibited significantly higher viability, increased NeuN+ cells, and reduced apoptosis compared to the static culture group at Days Ex Vivo (DEV) 4, 7, and 14. The perfusion-cultured retinal explants exhibited reduced mRNA markers for gliosis and microglial activation, along with lower expression of GFAP and Iba1, as revealed by immunostaining. Additionally, RNA-sequencing analysis showed that perfusion culture mainly upregulated genes associated with visual perception and photoreceptor cell maintenance while downregulating the immune system process and immune response. RO-Exos promoted the uptake of PKH26-labelled exosomes and the growth of retinal explants in perfusion culture. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Our perfusion culture system can provide a continuous supply of culture medium to achieve steady-state equilibrium in retinal explant culture. Compared to traditional static culture, it better preserves the vitality, provides better neuroprotection, and reduces glial activation. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a promising ex vivo model for further studies on degenerative retinal diseases and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
| | - Wenxuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linyao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sihui Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuhong Ye
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuhao Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Qi
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yonglong Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Ophthalmology, Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Qin YJ, Huang G, Liao J, Jiang L, Tang F, Tang N, Hong Y, Shen C, Lan Q, Xu F, Chen L. Ucf-101 alleviates Ischaemia/Reperfusion induced retinal inflammation and injury via suppressing oxidative damage. J Mol Histol 2024:10.1007/s10735-024-10213-5. [PMID: 38877338 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-024-10213-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The Omi/HtrA2 inhibitor 5-[5-(2-nitrophenyl) furfuryliodine]-1,3-diphenyl-2-thiobarbituric acid (Ucf-101) has shown neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. However, whether Ucf-101 can protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after retinal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) has not been investigated. We aimed to investigate the effects of Ucf-101 on RGCs apoptosis and inflammation after IR-induced retinal injury in mice. We injected Ucf-101 into the mouse vitreous body immediately after IR injury. After 7 days, hematoxylin and eosin staining was conducted to assess retinal tissue damage. Next, retrograde labeling with FluoroGold, counting of RGCs and TUNEL staining were conducted to evaluate apoptosis. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, and western blotting were conducted to analyze protein levels. IR injury-induced retinal tissue damage could be prevented by Ucf-101 treatment. The number of TUNEL-positive RGCs was reduced by Ucf-101 treatment in mice with IR injury. Ucf-101 treatment inhibited the upregulation of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 and activated the JNK/ERK/P38 signaling pathway. Furthermore, Ucf-101 treatment inhibited the upregulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vimentin, Iba1 and CD68 in mice with IR injury. Ucf-101 prevents retinal tissue damage, improves the survival of RGCs, and suppresses microglial overactivation after IR injury. Ucf-101 might be a potential target to prevent RGCs apoptosis and inflammation in neurodegenerative eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Jun Qin
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guangyi Huang
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Jing Liao
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Fen Tang
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Ningning Tang
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Yiyi Hong
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Chaolan Shen
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Qianqian Lan
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China.
| | - Lifei Chen
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China.
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Bou Ghanem GO, Wareham LK, Calkins DJ. Addressing neurodegeneration in glaucoma: Mechanisms, challenges, and treatments. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101261. [PMID: 38527623 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The disease causes vision loss due to neurodegeneration of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) projection to the brain through the optic nerve. Glaucoma is associated with sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP). Thus, mainstay treatments seek to manage IOP, though many patients continue to lose vision. To address neurodegeneration directly, numerous preclinical studies seek to develop protective or reparative therapies that act independently of IOP. These include growth factors, compounds targeting metabolism, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, and neuromodulators. Despite success in experimental models, many of these approaches fail to translate into clinical benefits. Several factors contribute to this challenge. Firstly, the anatomic structure of the optic nerve head differs between rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans. Additionally, animal models do not replicate the complex glaucoma pathophysiology in humans. Therefore, to enhance the success of translating these findings, we propose two approaches. First, thorough evaluation of experimental targets in multiple animal models, including nonhuman primates, should precede clinical trials. Second, we advocate for combination therapy, which involves using multiple agents simultaneously, especially in the early and potentially reversible stages of the disease. These strategies aim to increase the chances of successful neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi O Bou Ghanem
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Lauren K Wareham
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - David J Calkins
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Keenan TDL, Bailey C, Abraham M, Orndahl C, Menezes S, Bellur S, Arunachalam T, Kangale-Whitney C, Srinivas S, Karamat A, Nittala M, Cunningham D, Jeffrey BG, Wiley HE, Thavikulwat AT, Sadda S, Cukras CA, Chew EY, Wong WT. Phase 2 Trial Evaluating Minocycline for Geographic Atrophy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Nonrandomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:345-355. [PMID: 38483382 PMCID: PMC10941022 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Importance Existing therapies to slow geographic atrophy (GA) enlargement in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have relatively modest anatomic efficacy, require intravitreal administration, and increase the risk of neovascular AMD. Additional therapeutic approaches are desirable. Objective To evaluate the safety and possible anatomic efficacy of oral minocycline, a microglial inhibitor, for the treatment of GA in AMD. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a phase 2, prospective, single-arm, 45-month, nonrandomized controlled trial conducted from December 2016 to April 2023. Patients with GA from AMD in 1 or both eyes were recruited from the National Institutes of Health (Bethesda, Maryland) and Bristol Eye Hospital (Bristol, UK). Study data were analyzed from September 2022 to May 2023. Intervention After a 9-month run-in phase, participants began oral minocycline, 100 mg, twice daily for 3 years. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure was the difference in rate of change of square root GA area on fundus autofluorescence between the 24-month treatment phase and 9-month run-in phase. Results Of the 37 participants enrolled (mean [SD] age, 74.3 [7.6] years; 21 female [57%]), 36 initiated the treatment phase. Of these participants, 21 (58%) completed at least 33 months, whereas 15 discontinued treatment (8 by request, 6 for adverse events/illness, and 1 death). Mean (SE) square root GA enlargement rate in study eyes was 0.31 (0.03) mm per year during the run-in phase and 0.28 (0.02) mm per year during the treatment phase. The primary outcome measure of mean (SE) difference in enlargement rates between the 2 phases was -0.03 (0.03) mm per year (P = .39). Similarly, secondary outcome measures of GA enlargement rate showed no differences between the 2 phases. The secondary outcome measures of mean difference in rate of change between 2 phases were 0.2 letter score per month (95% CI, -0.4 to 0.9; P = .44) for visual acuity and 0.7 μm per month (-0.4 to 1.8; P = .20) for subfoveal retinal thickness. Of the 129 treatment-emergent adverse events among 32 participants, 49 (38%) were related to minocycline (with no severe or ocular events), including elevated thyrotropin level (15 participants) and skin hyperpigmentation/discoloration (8 participants). Conclusions and Relevance In this phase 2 nonrandomized controlled trial, oral minocycline was not associated with a decrease in GA enlargement over 24 months, compared with the run-in phase. This observation was consistent across primary and secondary outcome measures. Oral minocycline at this dose is likely not associated with slower rate of enlargement of GA in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Sunil Bellur
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Denise Cunningham
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Brett G. Jeffrey
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Henry E. Wiley
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
- Now with Genentech Inc, South San Francisco, California
| | | | - SriniVas Sadda
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, California
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
| | | | - Emily Y. Chew
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Wai T. Wong
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
- Now with Janssen Research and Development LLC, Brisbane, California
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Liu D, Liu Z, Liao H, Chen ZS, Qin B. Ferroptosis as a potential therapeutic target for age-related macular degeneration. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:103920. [PMID: 38369100 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.103920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Cell death plays a crucial part in the process of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), but its mechanisms remain elusive. Accumulating evidence suggests that ferroptosis, a novel form of regulatory cell death characterized by iron-dependent accumulation of lipid hydroperoxides, has a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AMD. Numerous studies have suggested that ferroptosis participates in the degradation of retinal cells and accelerates the progression of AMD. Furthermore, inhibitors of ferroptosis exhibit notable protective effects in AMD, underscoring the significance of ferroptosis as a pivotal mechanism in the death of retinal cells during the process of AMD. This review aims to summarize the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in AMD, enumerate potential inhibitors and discuss the challenges and future opportunities associated with targeting ferroptosis as a therapeutic strategy, providing important information references and insights for the prevention and treatment of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongcheng Liu
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ziling Liu
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongxia Liao
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA.
| | - Bo Qin
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Shenzhen Aier Ophthalmic Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China; Aier Eye Hospital, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.
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Tsai T, Reinehr S, Deppe L, Strubbe A, Kluge N, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Glaucoma Animal Models beyond Chronic IOP Increase. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:906. [PMID: 38255979 PMCID: PMC10815097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020906] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex and multifactorial disease defined as the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Besides an elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), other mechanisms play a pivotal role in glaucoma onset and progression. For example, it is known that excitotoxicity, immunological alterations, ischemia, and oxidative stress contribute to the neurodegeneration in glaucoma disease. To study these effects and to discover novel therapeutic approaches, appropriate animal models are needed. In this review, we focus on various glaucoma animal models beyond an elevated IOP. We introduce genetically modified mice, e.g., the optineurin E50K knock-in or the glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST)-deficient mouse. Excitotoxicity can be mimicked by injecting the glutamate analogue N-methyl-D-aspartate intravitreally, which leads to rapid RGC degeneration. To explore the contribution of the immune system, the experimental autoimmune glaucoma model can serve as a useful tool. Here, immunization with antigens led to glaucoma-like damage. The ischemic mechanism can be mimicked by inducing a high IOP for a certain amount of time in rodents, followed by reperfusion. Thereby, damage to the retina and the optic nerve occurs rapidly after ischemia/reperfusion. Lastly, we discuss the importance of optic nerve crush models as model systems for normal-tension glaucoma. In summary, various glaucoma models beyond IOP increase can be utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (T.T.); (S.R.); (L.D.); (N.K.); (H.B.D.)
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Aweidah H, Xi Z, Sahel JA, Byrne LC. PRPF31-retinitis pigmentosa: Challenges and opportunities for clinical translation. Vision Res 2023; 213:108315. [PMID: 37714045 PMCID: PMC10872823 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2023.108315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in pre-mRNA processing factor 31 cause autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (PRPF31-RP), for which there is currently no efficient treatment, making this disease a prime target for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. PRPF31-RP exhibits incomplete penetrance due to haploinsufficiency, in which reduced levels of gene expression from the mutated allele result in disease. A variety of model systems have been used in the investigation of disease etiology and therapy development. In this review, we discuss recent advances in both in vivo and in vitro model systems, evaluating their advantages and limitations in the context of therapy development for PRPF31-RP. Additionally, we describe the latest approaches for treatment, including AAV-mediated gene augmentation, genome editing, and late-stage therapies such as optogenetics, cell transplantation, and retinal prostheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamzah Aweidah
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhouhuan Xi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Leah C Byrne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Fietz A, Schnichels S, Hurst J. Co-cultivation of primary porcine RPE cells and neuroretina induces inflammation: a potential inflammatory AMD-model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19345. [PMID: 37935821 PMCID: PMC10630302 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46029-8] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
One common aspect in the pathology of many retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the death of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. RPE cells are essential for photoreceptor survival as they recycle and remove compounds of the visual cycle and secrete protective cytokines. Studying RPE cells is crucial to improve our understanding of retinal pathologies, yet only a few retinal ex vivo models include them or do so only indirectly. Besides the positive effects in indirect co-cultivation models, also a slight inflammation was observed. In this study we developed an ex vivo model consisting of a primary porcine RPE monolayer directly co-cultured with porcine retinal organ cultures, to investigate and simulate inflammatory retinal diseases, such as (dry) AMD. The direct co-cultivation resulted in immune reactivity (enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8) and cell death. These effects were evaluated for the retinal explant as well as for the RPE-monolayer to further understand the complex interactions between these two compartments. Taken together, this ex vivo model can be used to study inflammatory retinal diseases like AMD as well as the rejection observed after RPE-transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Fietz
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sven Schnichels
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - José Hurst
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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Chhatwal S, Antony H, Lamei S, Kovács-Öller T, Klettner AK, Zille M. A systematic review of the cell death mechanisms in retinal pigment epithelium cells and photoreceptors after subretinal hemorrhage - Implications for treatment options. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115572. [PMID: 37742603 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans rely on vision as their most important sense. This is accomplished by photoreceptors (PRs) in the retina that detect light but cannot function without the support and maintenance of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). In subretinal hemorrhage (SRH), blood accumulates between the neurosensory retina and the RPE or between the RPE and the choroid. Blood breakdown products subsequently damage PRs and the RPE and lead to poor vision and blindness. Hence, there is a high need for options to preserve the retina and visual functions. We conducted a systematic review of the literature in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines to identify the cell death mechanisms in RPE and PRs after SRH to deepen our understanding of the pathways involved. After screening 736 publications published until November 8, 2022, we identified 19 records that assessed cell death in PRs and/or RPE in experimental models of SRH. Among the different cell death mechanisms, apoptosis was the most widely investigated mechanism (11 records), followed by ferroptosis (4), whereas necroptosis, pyroptosis, and lysosome-dependent cell death were only assessed in one study each. We discuss different therapeutic options that were assessed in these studies, including the removal of the hematoma/iron chelation, cytoprotection, anti-inflammatory agents, and antioxidants. Further systematic investigations will be necessary to determine the exact cell death mechanisms after SRH with respect to different blood breakdown components, cell types, and time courses. This will form the basis for the development of novel treatment options for SRH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirjan Chhatwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Henrike Antony
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Saman Lamei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Tamás Kovács-Öller
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alexa Karina Klettner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Quincke Research Center, Kiel, Germany
| | - Marietta Zille
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Austria.
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Sadikan MZ, Abdul Nasir NA, Lambuk L, Mohamud R, Reshidan NH, Low E, Singar SA, Mohmad Sabere AS, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R. Diabetic retinopathy: a comprehensive update on in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo experimental models. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:421. [PMID: 37858128 PMCID: PMC10588156 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-03155-1] [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: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR), one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness worldwide, is one of the major microvascular complications in diabetes mellitus (DM). Globally, DR prevalence among DM patients is 25%, and 6% have vision-threatening problems among them. With the higher incidence of DM globally, more DR cases are expected to be seen in the future. In order to comprehend the pathophysiological mechanism of DR in humans and discover potential novel substances for the treatment of DR, investigations are typically conducted using various experimental models. Among the experimental models, in vivo models have contributed significantly to understanding DR pathogenesis. There are several types of in vivo models for DR research, which include chemical-induced, surgical-induced, diet-induced, and genetic models. Similarly, for the in vitro models, there are several cell types that are utilised in DR research, such as retinal endothelial cells, Müller cells, and glial cells. With the advancement of DR research, it is essential to have a comprehensive update on the various experimental models utilised to mimic DR environment. This review provides the update on the in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo models used in DR research, focusing on their features, advantages, and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Zulfiqah Sadikan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM), Bukit Baru, 75150, Melaka, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Alimah Abdul Nasir
- Centre for Neuroscience Research (NeuRon), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 47000, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Nur Hidayah Reshidan
- School of Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Evon Low
- Ageing Biology Centre, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Saiful Anuar Singar
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, College of Health and Human Sciences, Florida State University, 32306, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Awis Sukarni Mohmad Sabere
- Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, 57000, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Pavshikh Bortsov sq. 1, 400131 , Volgograd, Russian Federation
| | - Renu Agarwal
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, 57000, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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12
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Carido M, Völkner M, Steinheuer LM, Wagner F, Kurth T, Dumler N, Ulusoy S, Wieneke S, Norniella AV, Golfieri C, Khattak S, Schönfelder B, Scamozzi M, Zoschke K, Canzler S, Hackermüller J, Ader M, Karl MO. Reliability of human retina organoid generation from hiPSC-derived neuroepithelial cysts. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1166641. [PMID: 37868194 PMCID: PMC10587494 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1166641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The possible applications for human retinal organoids (HROs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) rely on the robustness and transferability of the methodology for their generation. Standardized strategies and parameters to effectively assess, compare, and optimize organoid protocols are starting to be established, but are not yet complete. To advance this, we explored the efficiency and reliability of a differentiation method, called CYST protocol, that facilitates retina generation by forming neuroepithelial cysts from hiPSC clusters. Here, we tested seven different hiPSC lines which reproducibly generated HROs. Histological and ultrastructural analyses indicate that HRO differentiation and maturation are regulated. The different hiPSC lines appeared to be a larger source of variance than experimental rounds. Although previous reports have shown that HROs in several other protocols contain a rather low number of cones, HROs from the CYST protocol are consistently richer in cones and with a comparable ratio of cones, rods, and Müller glia. To provide further insight into HRO cell composition, we studied single cell RNA sequencing data and applied CaSTLe, a transfer learning approach. Additionally, we devised a potential strategy to systematically evaluate different organoid protocols side-by-side through parallel differentiation from the same hiPSC batches: In an explorative study, the CYST protocol was compared to a conceptually different protocol based on the formation of cell aggregates from single hiPSCs. Comparing four hiPSC lines showed that both protocols reproduced key characteristics of retinal epithelial structure and cell composition, but the CYST protocol provided a higher HRO yield. So far, our data suggest that CYST-derived HROs remained stable up to at least day 200, while single hiPSC-derived HROs showed spontaneous pathologic changes by day 200. Overall, our data provide insights into the efficiency, reproducibility, and stability of the CYST protocol for generating HROs, which will be useful for further optimizing organoid systems, as well as for basic and translational research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalena Carido
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Manuela Völkner
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lisa Maria Steinheuer
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Felix Wagner
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Natalie Dumler
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Selen Ulusoy
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stephanie Wieneke
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Cristina Golfieri
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Shahryar Khattak
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Stem Cell Engineering Facility, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bruno Schönfelder
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maria Scamozzi
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Katja Zoschke
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sebastian Canzler
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jörg Hackermüller
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mike O Karl
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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13
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Dobrzycka M, Sulewska A, Biecek P, Charkiewicz R, Karabowicz P, Charkiewicz A, Golaszewska K, Milewska P, Michalska-Falkowska A, Nowak K, Niklinski J, Konopińska J. miRNA Studies in Glaucoma: A Comprehensive Review of Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14699. [PMID: 37834147 PMCID: PMC10572595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disorder that leads to irreversible blindness, remains a challenge because of its complex nature. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene expression and are associated with glaucoma and other diseases. We aimed to review and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of miRNA-focused molecular studies in glaucoma through discussing their potential as biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis; offering insights into molecular pathways and mechanisms; and discussing their potential utility with respect to personalized medicine, their therapeutic potential, and non-invasive monitoring. Limitations, such as variability, small sample sizes, sample specificity, and limited accessibility to ocular tissues, are also addressed, underscoring the need for robust protocols and collaboration. Reproducibility and validation are crucial to establish the credibility of miRNA research findings, and the integration of bioinformatics tools for miRNA database creation is a valuable component of a comprehensive approach to investigate miRNA aberrations in patients with glaucoma. Overall, miRNA research in glaucoma has provided significant insights into the molecular mechanisms of the disease, offering potential biomarkers, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic targets. However, addressing challenges such as variability and limited tissue accessibility is essential, and further investigations and validation will contribute to a deeper understanding of the functional significance of miRNAs in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Dobrzycka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland; (M.D.); (K.G.)
| | - Anetta Sulewska
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.C.); (J.N.)
| | - Przemyslaw Biecek
- Faculty of Mathematics and Information Science, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-662 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Radoslaw Charkiewicz
- Center of Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-369 Bialystok, Poland;
- Biobank, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (P.K.); (P.M.); (A.M.-F.)
| | - Piotr Karabowicz
- Biobank, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (P.K.); (P.M.); (A.M.-F.)
| | - Angelika Charkiewicz
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.C.); (J.N.)
| | - Kinga Golaszewska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland; (M.D.); (K.G.)
| | - Patrycja Milewska
- Biobank, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (P.K.); (P.M.); (A.M.-F.)
| | | | - Karolina Nowak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA;
| | - Jacek Niklinski
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland; (A.S.); (A.C.); (J.N.)
| | - Joanna Konopińska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland; (M.D.); (K.G.)
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14
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Wolf HN, Ehinger V, Guempelein L, Banerjee P, Kuempfel T, Havla J, Pauly D. NMOSD IgG Impact Retinal Cells in Murine Retinal Explants. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7319-7335. [PMID: 37754247 PMCID: PMC10529972 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090463] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, characterized by autoantibodies against aquaporin-4. The symptoms primarily involve severe optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Although the disease progression is typically relapse-dependent, recent studies revealed retinal neuroaxonal degeneration unrelated to relapse activity, potentially due to anti-aquaporin-4-positive antibodies interacting with retinal glial cells such as Müller cells. In this exploratory study, we analysed the response of mouse retinal explants to NMOSD immunoglobulins (IgG). Mouse retinal explants were treated with purified IgG from patient or control sera for one and three days. We characterized tissue response patterns through morphological changes, chemokine secretion, and complement expression. Mouse retinal explants exhibited a basic proinflammatory response ex vivo, modified by IgG addition. NMOSD IgG, unlike control IgG, increased gliosis and decreased chemokine release (CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CXCL-10). Complement component expression by retinal cells remained unaltered by either IgG fraction. We conclude that human NMOSD IgG can possibly bind in the mouse retina, altering the local cellular environment. This intraretinal stress may contribute to retinal degeneration independent of relapse activity in NMOSD, suggesting a primary retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Nora Wolf
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Ehinger
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Guempelein
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Pratiti Banerjee
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Tania Kuempfel
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, Biomedical Center and University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Havla
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, Biomedical Center and University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Diana Pauly
- Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, University Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
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15
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Hurst J, Attrodt G, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Mau-Holzmann UA, Spitzer MS, Schnichels S. A Case Study from the Past: "The RGC-5 vs. the 661W Cell Line: Similarities, Differences and Contradictions-Are They Really the Same?". Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13801. [PMID: 37762103 PMCID: PMC10531351 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813801] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In the pursuit of identifying the underlying pathways of ocular diseases, the use of cell lines such as (retinal ganglion cell-5) RGC-5 and 661W became a valuable tool, including pathologies like retinal degeneration and glaucoma. In 2001, the establishment of the RGC-5 cell line marked a significant breakthrough in glaucoma research. Over time, however, concerns arose about the true nature of RGC-5 cells, with conflicting findings in the literature regarding their identity as retinal ganglion cells or photoreceptor-like cells. This study aimed to address the controversy surrounding the RGC-5 cell line's origin and properties by comparing it with the 661W cell line, a known cone photoreceptor model. Both cell lines were differentiated according to two prior published redifferentiation protocols under the same conditions using 500 nM of trichostatin A (TSA) and investigated for their morphological and neuronal marker properties. The results demonstrated that both cell lines are murine, and they exhibited distinct morphological and neuronal marker properties. Notably, the RGC-5 cells showed higher expression of the neuronal marker β-III tubulin and increased Thy-1-mRNA compared with the 661W cells, providing evidence of their different properties. The findings emphasize the importance of verifying the authenticity of cell lines used in ocular research and highlight the risks of contamination and altered cell properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Hurst
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany (K.-U.B.-S.); (S.S.)
| | - Gesine Attrodt
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany (K.-U.B.-S.); (S.S.)
| | - Karl-Ulrich Bartz-Schmidt
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany (K.-U.B.-S.); (S.S.)
| | - Ulrike Angelika Mau-Holzmann
- Institute for Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, Center for Rare Diseases, University of Tuebingen, Calwerstrasse 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin Stephan Spitzer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Sven Schnichels
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany (K.-U.B.-S.); (S.S.)
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16
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Shamshad A, Kang C, Jenny LA, Persad-Paisley EM, Tsang SH. Translatability barriers between preclinical and clinical trials of AAV gene therapy in inherited retinal diseases. Vision Res 2023; 210:108258. [PMID: 37244011 PMCID: PMC10526971 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2023.108258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are progressive degenerative diseases which cause gradual vision loss or complete blindness. As over 270 gene mutations have been identified in the underlying pathology of IRDs, gene therapy as a treatment modality has been an increasingly active realm of investigation. Currently, the most common vehicle of ocular gene delivery is the adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector. This is injected into the immune-privileged subretinal space to mediate transgene expression in retinal cells. Although numerous animal models of IRDs have demonstrated successful outcomes following AAV-mediated gene delivery, many of these studies fail to translate into successful outcomes in clinical trials. The purpose of this review is to A) comparatively assess preclinical and clinical IRD trials in which the success of AAV-mediated therapy failed to translate between animal and human participants B) discuss factors which may complicate the translatability of gene therapy in animals to results in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chaerim Kang
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, USA
| | - Laura A Jenny
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Jonas Children's Vision Care, and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Stephen H Tsang
- Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Jonas Children's Vision Care, and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Insitute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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17
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Kropp M, Mohit M, Leroy-Ciocanea CI, Schwerm L, Harmening N, Bascuas T, De Clerck E, Kreis AJ, Pajic B, Johnen S, Thumann G. Mammalian Animal and Human Retinal Organ Culture as Pre-Clinical Model to Evaluate Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Intraocular Therapeutics. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1211. [PMID: 37371942 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061211] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is involved in the pathogenesis of retinal neurodegenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) and an important target of therapeutic treatments. New therapeutics are tested in vivo despite limits in terms of transferability and ethical concerns. Retina cultures using human tissue can deliver critical information and significantly reduce the number of animal experiments along with increased transferability. We cultured up to 32 retina samples derived from one eye, analyzed the model's quality, induced OS, and tested the efficiency of antioxidative therapeutics. Bovine, porcine, rat, and human retinae were cultured in different experimental settings for 3-14 d. OS was induced by a high amount of glucose or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and treated with scutellarin, pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), and/or granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The tissue morphology, cell viability, inflammation, and glutathione level were determined. The retina samples showed only moderate necrosis (23.83 ± 5.05 increased to 27.00 ± 1.66 AU PI-staining over 14 d) after 14 days in culture. OS was successfully induced (reduced ATP content of 288.3 ± 59.9 vs. 435.7 ± 166.8 nM ATP in the controls) and the antioxidants reduced OS-induced apoptosis (from 124.20 ± 51.09 to 60.80 ± 319.66 cells/image after the scutellarin treatment). Enhanced mammalian animal and human retina cultures enable reliable, highly transferable research on OS-triggered age-related diseases and pre-clinical testing during drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Kropp
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mohit Mohit
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Laura Schwerm
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Nina Harmening
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thais Bascuas
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eline De Clerck
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andreas J Kreis
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bojan Pajic
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Eye Clinic ORASIS, Swiss Eye Research Foundation, 5734 Reinach, Switzerland
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defense, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sandra Johnen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Thumann
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva,1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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18
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Huang X, Zhang L, Fu Y, Zhang M, Yang Q, Peng J. Rethinking the potential and necessity of drug delivery systems in neovascular age-related macular degeneration therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1199922. [PMID: 37288355 PMCID: PMC10242387 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1199922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the predominant threat to human vision and ultimately results in blindness. With the increase in the aging population, it has become a more crucial issue to human health. AMD is a multifactorial disease with the unique feature of uncontrollable angiogenesis during initiation and progression. Although increasing evidence indicates that AMD is largely hereditary, the predominant efficient treatment is antiangiogenesis, which mainly involves VEGF and HIF-α as therapeutic targets. The repeated administration of this treatment over the long term, generally through intravitreal injection, has called for the introduction of long-term drug delivery systems, which are expected to be achieved by biomaterials. However, the clinical results of the port delivery system indicate that the optimization of medical devices toward prolonging the activities of therapeutic biologics in AMD therapy seems more promising. These results indicate that we should rethink the possibility and potential of biomaterials as drug delivery systems in achieving long-term, sustained inhibition of angiogenesis in AMD therapy. In this review, the etiology, categorization, risk factors, pathogenesis, and current clinical treatments of AMD are briefly introduced. Next, the development status of long-term drug delivery systems is discussed, and the drawbacks and shortages of these systems are emphasized. By comprehensively considering the pathological aspect and the recent application of drug delivery systems in AMD therapy, we hope to find a better solution for the further development of long-term therapeutic strategies for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanyan Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Center of Scientific Research, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinrong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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19
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Dörschmann P, Thalenhorst T, Seeba C, Tischhöfer MT, Neupane S, Roider J, Alban S, Klettner A. Comparison of Fucoidans from Saccharina latissima Regarding Age-Related Macular Degeneration Relevant Pathomechanisms in Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7939. [PMID: 37175646 PMCID: PMC10178501 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fucoidans from brown algae are described as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiangiogenic. We tested two Saccharina latissima fucoidans (SL-FRO and SL-NOR) regarding their potential biological effects against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Primary porcine retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), human RPE cell line ARPE-19, and human uveal melanoma cell line OMM-1 were used. Cell survival was assessed in tetrazolium assay (MTT). Oxidative stress assays were induced with erastin or H2O2. Supernatants were harvested to assess secreted vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) in ELISA. Barrier function was assessed by measurement of trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Protectin (CD59) and retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa protein (RPE65) were evaluated in western blot. Polymorphonuclear elastase and complement inhibition assays were performed. Phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments was tested in a fluorescence assay. Secretion and expression of proinflammatory cytokines were assessed with ELISA and real-time PCR. Fucoidans were chemically analyzed. Neither toxic nor antioxidative effects were detected in ARPE-19 or OMM-1. Interleukin 8 gene expression was slightly reduced by SL-NOR but induced by SL-FRO in RPE. VEGF secretion was reduced in ARPE-19 by SL-FRO and in RPE by both fucoidans. Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid induced interleukin 6 and interleukin 8 secretion was reduced by both fucoidans in RPE. CD59 expression was positively influenced by fucoidans, and they exhibited a complement and elastase inhibitory effect in cell-free assay. RPE65 expression was reduced by SL-NOR in RPE. Barrier function of RPE was transiently reduced. Phagocytosis ability was slightly reduced by both fucoidans in primary RPE but not in ARPE-19. Fucoidans from Saccharina latissima, especially SL-FRO, are promising agents against AMD, as they reduce angiogenic cytokines and show anti-inflammatory and complement inhibiting properties; however, potential effects on gene expression and RPE functions need to be considered for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Dörschmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 25, 24105 Kiel, Germany (A.K.)
| | - Tabea Thalenhorst
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 25, 24105 Kiel, Germany (A.K.)
| | - Charlotte Seeba
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 25, 24105 Kiel, Germany (A.K.)
| | | | - Sandesh Neupane
- Wyatt Technology Europe GmbH, Hochstrasse 12a, 56307 Dernbach, Germany
| | - Johann Roider
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 25, 24105 Kiel, Germany (A.K.)
| | - Susanne Alban
- Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Kiel, Gutenbergstr. 76, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Alexa Klettner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus 25, 24105 Kiel, Germany (A.K.)
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Yu J, Yin Y, Leng Y, Zhang J, Wang C, Chen Y, Li X, Wang X, Liu H, Liao Y, Jin Y, Zhang Y, Lu K, Wang K, Wang X, Wang L, Zheng F, Gu Z, Li Y, Fan Y. Emerging strategies of engineering retinal organoids and organoid-on-a-chip in modeling intraocular drug delivery: current progress and future perspectives. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114842. [PMID: 37105398 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Retinal diseases are a rising concern as major causes of blindness in an aging society; therapeutic options are limited, and the precise pathogenesis of these diseases remains largely unknown. Intraocular drug delivery and nanomedicines offering targeted, sustained, and controllable delivery are the most challenging and popular topics in ocular drug development and toxicological evaluation. Retinal organoids (ROs) and organoid-on-a-chip (ROoC) are both emerging as promising in-vitro models to faithfully recapitulate human eyes for retinal research in the replacement of experimental animals and primary cells. In this study, we review the generation and application of ROs resembling the human retina in cell subtypes and laminated structures and introduce the emerging engineered ROoC as a technological opportunity to address critical issues. On-chip vascularization, perfusion, and close inter-tissue interactions recreate physiological environments in vitro, whilst integrating with biosensors facilitates real-time analysis and monitoring during organogenesis of the retina representing engineering efforts in ROoC models. We also emphasize that ROs and ROoCs hold the potential for applications in modeling intraocular drug delivery in vitro and developing next-generation retinal drug delivery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaheng Yu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yuqi Yin
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yubing Leng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Jingcheng Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yanyun Chen
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiaorui Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xudong Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yulong Liao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yishan Jin
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yihan Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Keyu Lu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Kehao Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Lizhen Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Fuyin Zheng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Zhongze Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
| | - Yinghui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China.
| | - Yubo Fan
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, and with the School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China.
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Dörschmann P, Akkurt H, Kopplin G, Mikkelsen MD, Meyer AS, Roider J, Klettner A. Establishment of specific age-related macular degeneration relevant gene expression panels using porcine retinal pigment epithelium for assessing fucoidan bioactivity. Exp Eye Res 2023; 231:109469. [PMID: 37037364 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in industrialized nations. Important factors in pathogenesis are oxidative stress, inflammation, and, in the wet form of AMD, angiogenesis. Fucoidans, sulfated polysaccharides from brown algae, may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiangiogenic effects. In this study, we established specific gene expression panels for inflammation, oxidative stress and angiogenesis in porcine retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and investigated the effect of fucoidans on gene expression under different noxious agents. METHODS Primary porcine RPE cells cultured for at least 14 days were used. Using viability assays with tetrazolium bromide and real-time polymerase chain reaction of marker genes, positive controls were established for appropriate concentrations and exposure times of selected noxious agents (lipopolysaccharide (LPS), H2O2, CoCl2). Three different AMD relevant gene panels specific for porcine RPE for inflammation, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis were established, and the influence of fucoidans (mainly Fucus vesiculosus; FV) on gene expression was investigated. RESULTS The following was shown by gene expression analyses: (1) Inflammation panel: Expression of 18 genes was affected under LPS (three days). Among them, LPS increased genes for interleukin 1 receptor 2, interleukin 8, cyclooxygenase-2 and vascular cell adhesion protein 1 expression which were diminished when FV was present. (2) Oxidative stress panel: Under stimulation of H2O2 (one day) and LPS (one day), expression of a total of 15 genes was affected. LPS induced increase in genes for superoxide dismutase-1, C-X-C motif chemokine 10, and CC chemokine ligand-5 expression was not detected when FV was present. (3) Angiogenesis panel: Under stimulation with CoCl2 (three days) expression of six genes was affected, with the increase of genes for angiopoietin 2, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1, and follistatin being diminished when FV was present. CONCLUSION Three specific gene expression panels for porcine RPE that map genes for three of the major pathological factors of AMD, inflammation, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis, were established. Further, we demonstrated that fucoidans can reduce stress related gene activation in all of these three major pathogenic pathways. This study is another indication that fucoidans can act on different pathomechanisms of AMD simultaneously, which provides further evidence for fucoidans as a possible drug for treatment and prevention of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Dörschmann
- Kiel University, University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus B2, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Hubeydullah Akkurt
- Kiel University, University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus B2, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Georg Kopplin
- Alginor ASA, Haraldsgata 162, 5525, Haugesund, Norway
| | | | - Anne S Meyer
- Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Johann Roider
- Kiel University, University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus B2, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Alexa Klettner
- Kiel University, University Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, Haus B2, 24105, Kiel, Germany
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Dörschmann P, Seeba C, Thalenhorst T, Roider J, Klettner A. Anti-inflammatory properties of antiangiogenic fucoidan in retinal pigment epithelium cells. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15202. [PMID: 37123974 PMCID: PMC10130777 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease in which angiogenesis, oxidative stress and inflammation are important contributing factors. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of a fucoidan from the brown algae Fucus vesiculosus (FV) in primary porcine RPE cells. Inflammation was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C), Pam2CSK4 (Pam), or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Cell viability was tested with thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) test, barrier function by measuring transepithelial electric resistance (TEER), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) secretion in ELISA, retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa protein (RPE65) and protectin (CD59) expression in Western blot, gene expression with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) (IL6, IL8, MERTK, PIK3CA), and phagocytotic activity in a microscopic assay. FV fucoidan did not influence RPE cell viability. FV fucoidan reduced the Poly I:C proinflammatory cytokine secretion of IL-6 and IL-8. In addition, it decreased the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 in RT-PCR. LPS and TNF-α reduced the expression of CD59 in Western blot, this reduction was lost under FV fucoidan treatment. Also, LPS and TNF-α reduced the expression of visual cycle protein RPE65, this reduction was again lost under FV fucoidan treatment. Furthermore, the significant reduction of barrier function after Poly I:C stimulation is ameliorated by FV fucoidan. Concerning phagocytosis, however, the inflammation-induced reduction was not improved by FV fucoidan. FV and proinflammatory milieu did not relevantly influence phagocytosis relevant gene expression either. In conclusion, we show that fucoidan from FV can reduce proinflammatory stimulation in RPE induced by toll-like receptor 3 (TLR-3) activation and is of high interest as a potential compound for early AMD treatment.
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23
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Kuepfer L, Fuellen G, Stahnke T. Quantitative systems pharmacology of the eye: Tools and data for ocular QSP. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2023; 12:288-299. [PMID: 36708082 PMCID: PMC10014063 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Good eyesight belongs to the most-valued attributes of health, and diseases of the eye are a significant healthcare burden. Case numbers are expected to further increase in the next decades due to an aging society. The development of drugs in ophthalmology, however, is difficult due to limited accessibility of the eye, in terms of drug administration and in terms of sampling of tissues for drug pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs). Ocular quantitative systems pharmacology models provide the opportunity to describe the distribution of drugs in the eye as well as the resulting drug-response in specific segments of the eye. In particular, ocular physiologically-based PK (PBPK) models are necessary to describe drug concentration levels in different regions of the eye. Further, ocular effect models using molecular data from specific cellular systems are needed to develop dose-response correlations. We here describe the current status of PK/PBPK as well as PD models for the eyes and discuss cellular systems, data repositories, as well as animal models in ophthalmology. The application of the various concepts is highlighted for the development of new treatments for postoperative fibrosis after glaucoma surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Kuepfer
- Institute for Systems Medicine with Focus on Organ Interaction, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Georg Fuellen
- Institute for Biostatistics and Informatics in Medicine and Aging Research (IBIMA), Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Thomas Stahnke
- Institute for ImplantTechnology and Biomaterials e.V., Rostock, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
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Saha B, Roy A, Beltramo E, Sahoo OS. Stem cells and diabetic retinopathy: From models to treatment. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:4517-4526. [PMID: 36842153 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy is a common yet complex microvascular disease, caused as a complication of diabetes mellitus. Associated with hyperglycemia and subsequent metabolic abnormalities, advanced stages of the disease lead to fibrosis, subsequent visual impairment and blindness. Though clinical postmortems, animal and cell models provide information about the progression and prognosis of diabetic retinopathy, its underlying pathophysiology still needs a better understanding. In addition to it, the loss of pericytes, immature retinal angiogenesis and neuronal apoptosis portray the disease treatment to be challenging. Indulged with cell loss of both vascular and neuronal type cells, novel therapies like cell replacement strategies by various types of stem cells have been sightseen as a possible treatment of the disease. This review provides insight into the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy, current models used in modelling the disease, as well as the varied aspects of stem cells in generating three-dimensional retinal models. Further outlook on stem cell therapy and the future directions of stem cell treatment in diabetic retinopathy have also been contemplated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bihan Saha
- National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, West Bengal, India
| | - Akshita Roy
- Autonomous State Medical College, Fatehpur, 212601, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Elena Beltramo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - Om Saswat Sahoo
- National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, West Bengal, India.
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25
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Svare F, Ghosh F. Beneficial and Detrimental Pressure-Related Effects on Inner Neurons in the Adult Porcine In Vitro Retina. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:19. [PMID: 36780140 PMCID: PMC9927757 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.2.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore pressure-related effects in the adult porcine retina in vitro. Methods Retinal explants were subjected to 0, 10, 30, or 60 mmHg of pressure for 24 or 48 hours in culture. Overall tissue damage in sections was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase media levels, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and TUNEL staining. Inner retinal neurons were evaluated by protein kinase C alpha (rod bipolar cells), CHX10 (overall bipolar cell population), parvalbumin (amacrine cells), and RBPMS (ganglion cells) immunohistochemistry. Results All retinas kept in culture displayed increased pyknosis and apoptosis compared with directly fixed controls. The 10-mmHg explants displayed attenuation of overall tissue damage compared with the 0-, 30-, and 60-mmHg counterparts. No difference in the number of rod bipolar cells was seen in the 10-mmHg explants compared with directly fixed controls, whereas significantly fewer cells were detected in the remaining pressure groups. No difference in the number of ganglion cells in the 0-, 10-, and 60-mmHg groups was seen compared with directly fixed controls after 24 hours, whereas a lower number was found in the 30-mmHg counterpart. A decline of ganglion cells was found in the 0-, 10-, and 60-mmHg group after 48 hours, but no further decrease was seen in the 30-mmHg group. No differences were detected in overall bipolar and amacrine cells in the pressure groups after 24 hours compared with directly fixed controls. Conclusions A moderate amount of pressure attenuates culture-related retinal neurodegeneration. Rod bipolar cells are specifically vulnerable to excessive pressure. Translational Relevance These findings are relevant for glaucoma-related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Svare
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Ghosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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26
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Development of a CRISPRi Human Retinal Pigmented Epithelium Model for Functional Study of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Genes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043417. [PMID: 36834828 PMCID: PMC9962760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a blinding disease characterised by dysfunction of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) which culminates in disruption or loss of the neurosensory retina. Genome-wide association studies have identified >60 genetic risk factors for AMD; however, the expression profile and functional role of many of these genes remain elusive in human RPE. To facilitate functional studies of AMD-associated genes, we developed a human RPE model with integrated CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) for gene repression by generating a stable ARPE19 cell line expressing dCas9-KRAB. We performed transcriptomic analysis of the human retina to prioritise AMD-associated genes and selected TMEM97 as a candidate gene for knockdown study. Using specific sgRNAs, we showed that knockdown of TMEM97 in ARPE19 reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and exerted a protective effect against oxidative stress-induced cell death. This work provides the first functional study of TMEM97 in RPE and supports a potential role of TMEM97 in AMD pathobiology. Our study highlights the potential for using CRISPRi to study AMD genetics, and the CRISPRi RPE platform generated here provided a useful in vitro tool for functional studies of AMD-associated genes.
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Schnichels S, Simmang D, Löscher M, Herrmann A, de Vries JW, Spitzer MS, Hurst J. Lipid-DNA Nanoparticles as Drug-Delivery Vehicles for the Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020532. [PMID: 36839853 PMCID: PMC9961589 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal eye diseases are the leading cause of blindness in the Western world. Up to date, the only efficient treatment for many retinal diseases consists of invasive intravitreal injections of highly concentrated drugs. Despite the fact that these injections are unpleasant for the patients, they potentially cause serious side effects, e.g., infections, bleeding within the eye or retinal detachment, especially when performed on a monthly basis, thus decreasing the injection frequency and lowering the desired drug dose. Therefore, a sustained released at the region of interest with a sustained release is desired. Recently, novel lipid-DNA nanoparticles (NPs) were shown to be an efficient drug delivery platform to the anterior segment of the eye. In this study, we investigated the distribution and tropism of the NPs when applied intravitreally, as a potential medication carrier to the posterior part of the eye. This technology is perfectly suited for the delivery of low molecular weight drugs to the back of the eye, which so far is greatly hindered by fast diffusion rates of the free drugs in the vitreous body and their intrinsically low retainability in ocular tissue. Excellent biodistribution, adherence and presence for up to five days was found for the different tested nanoparticles ex vivo and in vivo. In conclusion, our lipid-DNA based nanocarrier system was able to reach the retina within minutes and penetrate the retina providing potentially safe and long-term carrier systems for small molecules or nucleotide-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Schnichels
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-70712987888
| | - David Simmang
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marina Löscher
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Herrmann
- DWI—Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstr. 50, 52056 Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Willem de Vries
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin S. Spitzer
- University Eye Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - José Hurst
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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Wang Y, Han S, Chen J, Sun J, Sun X. PFKFB3 knockdown attenuates Amyloid β-Induced microglial activation and retinal pigment epithelium disorders in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 115:109691. [PMID: 36638665 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by progressive accumulation of drusen deposits and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) disorders. As the main component of drusen, amyloid β (Aβ) plays a critical role in activating microglia and causing neuroinflammation in AMD pathogenesis. However, the role of activated microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in RPE senescence remains unclear. Recent evidence indicates that inflammatory microglia are glycolytic and driven by an increase in 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), an enzyme described as the master regulator of glycolysis. In this study, we mimicked the retinal inflammatory microenvironment of AMD by intravitreal injection of oligomeric Aβ1-40 in mice, which resulted in activation of microglia and upregulation of PFKFB3. RNA sequencing was performed to evaluate PFKFB3-mediated microglial activation. The effect of microglial activation on RPE disorders was assessed using gene knockout experiments, immunofluorescence, CCK-8 assay, and β-galactosidase staining. Intravitreal Aβ1-40 injection induced proinflammatory activation of microglia by upregulating PFKFB3 and resulted in RPE disorders, which was verified in heterozygous Pfkfb3-deficient mice (Pfkfb3+/-) mice, Aβ1-40-activated microglial cell line BV2, and co-culture of RPE cell line ARPE19. RNA sequencing revealed that PFKFB3 mainly affected innate immune processes during Aβ1-40-induced retinal inflammation. PFKFB3 knockdown inhibited RPE disorders and rescued the retinal structure and function. Overall, the modulation of PFKFB3-mediated microglial glycolysis and activation is a promising strategy for AMD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusong Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyang Han
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junran Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
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Peynshaert K, Devoldere J, De Smedt S, Remaut K. Every nano-step counts: a critical reflection on do's and don'ts in researching nanomedicines for retinal gene therapy. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:259-271. [PMID: 36630275 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2167979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retinal disease affects millions of people worldwide, generating a massive social and economic burden. Current clinical trials for retinal diseases are dominated by gene augmentation therapies delivered with recombinant viruses as key players. As an alternative, nanoparticles hold great promise for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics as well. Nevertheless, despite numerous attempts, 'nano' is in practice not as successful as aspired and major breakthroughs in retinal gene therapy applying nanomaterials are yet to be seen. AREAS COVERED In this review, we summarize the advantages of nanomaterials and give an overview of nanoparticles designed for retinal nucleic acid delivery up to now. We furthermore critically reflect on the predominant issues that currently limit nano to progress to the clinic, where faulty study design and the absence of representative models play key roles. EXPERT OPINION Since the current approach of in vitro - in vivo experimentation is highly inefficient and creates misinformation, we advocate for a more prominent role for ex vivo testing early on in nanoparticle research. In addition, we elaborate on several concepts, including systematic studies and open science, which could aid in pushing the field of nanomedicine beyond the preclinical stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Peynshaert
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium.,Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium
| | - Joke Devoldere
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium.,Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium
| | - Stefaan De Smedt
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium.,Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium.,Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium Belgium
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Microglia in Cultured Porcine Retina: Qualitative Immunohistochemical Analyses of Reactive Microglia in the Outer Retina. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010871. [PMID: 36614320 PMCID: PMC9820911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A late stage of several retinal disorders is retinal detachment, a complication that results in rapid photoreceptor degeneration and synaptic damages. Experimental retinal detachment in vivo is an invasive and complicated method performed on anesthetized animals. As retinal detachment may result in visual impairment and blindness, research is of fundamental importance for understanding degenerative processes. Both morphological and ethical issues make the porcine retina a favorable organotypic model for studies of the degenerative processes that follow retinal detachment. In the cultured retina, photoreceptor degeneration and synaptic injuries develop rapidly and correlate with resident microglial cells' transition into a reactive phenotype. In this immunohistochemical study, we have begun to analyze the transition of subsets of reactive microglia which are known to localize close to the outer plexiform layer (OPL) in degenerating in vivo and in vitro retina. Biomarkers for reactive microglia included P2Ry12, CD63 and CD68 and the general microglial markers were CD11b, Iba1 and isolectin B4 (IB4). The reactive microglia markers labeled microglia subpopulations, suggesting that protective or harmful reactive microglia may be present simultaneously in the injured retina. Our findings support the usage of porcine retina cultures for studies of photoreceptor injuries related to retinal detachment.
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Zhu W, Zhang X, Wu S, Wang N, Kuehn MH. iPSCs-Based Therapy for Trabecular Meshwork. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2023; 281:277-300. [PMID: 37495850 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The trabecular meshwork (TM) of the eye serves as an essential tissue in controlling aqueous humor (AH) outflow and intraocular pressure (IOP) homeostasis. However, dysfunctional TM cells and/or decreased TM cellularity is become a critical pathogenic cause for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Consequently, it is particularly valuable to investigate TM characteristics, which, in turn, facilitates the development of new treatments for POAG. Since 2006, the advancement in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provides a new tool to (1) model the TM in vitro and (2) regenerate degenerative TM in POAG. In this context, we first summarize the current approaches to induce the differentiation of TM-like cells from iPSCs and compare iPSC-derived TM models to the conventional in vitro TM models. The efficacy of iPSC-derived TM cells for TM regeneration in POAG models is also discussed. Through these approaches, iPSCs are becoming essential tools in glaucoma modeling and for developing personalized treatments for TM regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University & Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shen Wu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital Eye Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ningli Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University & Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital Eye Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Markus H Kuehn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Hu B, Huang Y, Jakobs TC, Kang Q, Lv Z, Liu W, Wang R. Viability of mitochondria-labeled retinal ganglion cells in organotypic retinal explant cultures by two methods. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109311. [PMID: 36403849 PMCID: PMC11003390 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109311] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Retinal explant cultures provide a valuable system to study retinal function in vitro. This study established a new retinal explant culture method to prolong the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Explants were prepared in two different ways: with or without optic nerve. Retinas from newborn mice that had received an injection of MitoTracker Red into the contralateral superior colliculus to label axonal mitochondria were cultured as organotypic culture for 7 days in vitro. At several time points during the culture, viability of RGCs was assessed by multi-electrode array recording, and morphology by immunohistochemical methods. During the culture, the thickness of the retinal tissue in both groups gradually decreased, however, the structure of the layers of the retina could be identified. Massive apoptosis in the retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL) appeared on the first day of culture, thereafter the number of apoptotic cells decreased. Glial activation was observed throughout the culture, and there was no difference in morphology between the two groups. RGCs loss was exacerbated on 3rdday of culture, and RGCs loss in retinal explants with preserved optic nerve was significantly lower than in retinas that did not preserve the optic nerve. More and longer-lasting mitochondrial signals were observed in the injured area of the optic nerve-preserving explants. Retinal explants provide an invaluable tool for studying retinal function and developing treatments for ocular diseases. The optic nerve-preserving culture helps preserve the integrity of RGCs. The higher number of mitochondria in the nerve-preserving cultures may help maintain viability of RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoqi Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xi'an No. 1 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China
| | - Yaoyao Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xi'an No. 1 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China; Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tatjana C Jakobs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary / Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, United States
| | - Qianyan Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Ziwei Lv
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenxuan Liu
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Xi'an No. 1 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China; Shaanxi Institute of Ophthalmology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710002, China.
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Kumar S, Wang JH, Liu GS. Methods for Ex Vivo AAV Transduction in Rodent and Human Retinal Explants. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2678:169-175. [PMID: 37326712 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3255-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Translational research is heavily dependent on animal models, and reliable disease models are essential for the development of novel therapies. Here, we outline the methods for culturing mouse and human retinal explants. In addition, we show efficient adeno-associated virus (AAV) transduction of the mouse retinal explants to aid the study and development of AAV-based therapeutics against ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satheesh Kumar
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Jiang-Hui Wang
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Guei-Sheung Liu
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
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Michelis GA, Politi LE, Becerra SP. Primary Retinal Cell Cultures as a Model to Study Retina Biology. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1415:565-569. [PMID: 37440087 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-27681-1_82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Since its inception, primary retinal cultures have been an in vitro tool for modeling the in vivo environment of the retina for biological studies on development and disease. They offer simple and controlled experimental approaches when compared to in vivo models. In this review we highlight the strengths and weaknesses of primary retinal culture models, and the features of dispersed retinal cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán A Michelis
- Section of Protein Structure and Function, LRCMB, NEI-NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Biology, Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas (INIBIBB), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Luis E Politi
- Department of Biology, Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas (INIBIBB), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - S Patricia Becerra
- Section of Protein Structure and Function, LRCMB, NEI-NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Wolfrum P, Fietz A, Schnichels S, Hurst J. The function of p53 and its role in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease compared to age-related macular degeneration. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1029473. [PMID: 36620455 PMCID: PMC9811148 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1029473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The protein p53 is the main human tumor suppressor. Since its discovery, extensive research has been conducted, which led to the general assumption that the purview of p53 is also essential for additional functions, apart from the prevention of carcinogenesis. In response to cellular stress and DNA damages, p53 constitutes the key point for the induction of various regulatory processes, determining whether the cell induces cell cycle arrest and DNA repair mechanisms or otherwise cell death. As an implication, aberrations from its normal functioning can lead to pathogeneses. To this day, neurodegenerative diseases are considered difficult to treat, which arises from the fact that in general the underlying pathological mechanisms are not well understood. Current research on brain and retina-related neurodegenerative disorders suggests that p53 plays an essential role in the progression of these conditions as well. In this review, we therefore compare the role and similarities of the tumor suppressor protein p53 in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), two of the most prevalent neurological diseases, to the age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which is among the most common forms of retinal degeneration.
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Human Pro370Leu Mutant Myocilin Induces the Phenotype of Open-Angle Glaucoma in Transgenic Mice. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022:10.1007/s10571-022-01280-x. [PMID: 36069958 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01280-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the characteristics of mutation myocilin proteins and glaucoma pathological phenotype in transgenic mice with full-length human Pro370Leu mutant myocilin gene (Tg-MYOCP370L). Tg-MYOCP370L mice were established using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured, myocilin protein expressions in anterior chamber angle, retina, optic nerve tissues and aqueous humor were detected by western blot. RBPMS, myocilin, Iba-1 and GFAP expression were visualized by immunofluorescence. H&E staining was applied to assess the ocular angle and retinal morphology. Aqueous humor dynamics were visualized by Gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging (Gd-MRI). TUNEL assay was used to evaluate the specific cell apoptosis in trabecular meshwork and retina. Optomotor and electroretinography tests were employed to evaluate the visual function in Tg-MYOCP370L and wild-type (WT) mice. Homozygous myocilin mutation at position 503 (C > T) was identified by PCR and sequencing in Tg-MYOCP370L mice. Myocilin protein expression was overexpressed in eye tissues of Tg-MYOCP370L mice with reduced myocilin secretion in aqueous humor. H&E staining showed normal histological morphology of anterior chamber angle whereas decreased thickness and nuclei in ganglion cell layer were found (P < 0.05). Gd signals were significantly increased in the anterior chamber of Tg-MYOCP370L compared with WT eyes (P < 0.05). IOP was elevated in Tg-MYOCP370L mice starting at 5 months of age, with significant RGC loss (P < 0.05). Upregulation of caspase-3 and caspase-9 expressions and increased TUNEL-positive cells were found in eyes of Tg-MYOCP370L mice. Excessive activation of retinal glial cells and impaired visual function were detected in Tg-MYOCP370L mice. Tg-MYOCP370L mice can induce the phenotype of open-angle glaucoma, featured as IOP elevation, activated retinal glial cells, loss of RGCs and impaired visual function. These pathologic changes may arise from the abnormal mutant myocilin protein accumulation in the trabecular meshwork and injured aqueous humor drainage. Therefore, Tg-MYOCP370L mice model can serve as an effective animal model for glaucoma research, especially for glaucoma-associated myocilin mutation studies.
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Catalani E, Cherubini A, Del Quondam S, Cervia D. Regenerative Strategies for Retinal Neurons: Novel Insights in Non-Mammalian Model Organisms. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158180. [PMID: 35897754 PMCID: PMC9331597 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A detailed knowledge of the status of the retina in neurodegenerative conditions is a crucial point for the development of therapeutics in retinal pathologies and to translate eye research to CNS disease. In this context, manipulating signaling pathways that lead to neuronal regeneration offers an excellent opportunity to substitute damaged cells and, thus, restore the tissue functionality. Alternative systems and methods are increasingly being considered to replace/reduce in vivo approaches in the study of retina pathophysiology. Herein, we present recent data obtained from the zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster that bring promising advantages into studying and modeling, at a preclinical level, neurodegeneration and regenerative approaches in retinal diseases. Indeed, the regenerative ability of vertebrate model zebrafish is particularly appealing. In addition, the fruit fly is ideal for regenerative studies due to its high degree of conservation with vertebrates and the broad spectrum of genetic variants achievable. Furthermore, a large part of the drosophila brain is dedicated to sight, thus offering the possibility of studying common mechanisms of the visual system and the brain at once. The knowledge acquired from these alternative models may help to investigate specific well-conserved factors of interest in human neuroregeneration after injuries or during pathologies.
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Molins B, Mesquida M, Adan A. Bioengineering approaches for modelling retinal pathologies of the outer blood-retinal barrier. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022:101097. [PMID: 35840488 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Alterations of the junctional complex of the outer blood-retinal barrier (oBRB), which is integrated by the close interaction of the retinal pigment epithelium, the Bruch's membrane, and the choriocapillaris, contribute to the loss of neuronal signalling and subsequent vision impairment in several retinal inflammatory disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Reductionist approaches into the mechanisms that underlie such diseases have been hindered by the absence of adequate in vitro models using human cells to provide the 3D dynamic architecture that enables expression of the in vivo phenotype of the oBRB. Conventional in vitro cell models are based on 2D monolayer cellular cultures, unable to properly recapitulate the complexity of living systems. The main drawbacks of conventional oBRB models also emerge from the cell sourcing, the lack of an appropriate Bruch's membrane analogue, and the lack of choroidal microvasculature with flow. In the last years, the advent of organ-on-a-chip, bioengineering, and stem cell technologies is providing more advanced 3D models with flow, multicellularity, and external control over microenvironmental properties. By incorporating additional biological complexity, organ-on-a-chip devices can mirror physiologically relevant properties of the native tissue while offering additional set ups to model and study disease. In this review we first examine the current understanding of oBRB biology as a functional unit, highlighting the coordinated contribution of the different components to barrier function in health and disease. Then we describe recent advances in the use of pluripotent stem cells-derived retinal cells, Bruch's membrane analogues, and co-culture techniques to recapitulate the oBRB. We finally discuss current advances and challenges of oBRB-on-a-chip technologies for disease modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Molins
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marina Mesquida
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alfredo Adan
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Instituto Clínic de Oftalmología, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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Zhu Y, Cao B, Tolone A, Yan J, Christensen G, Arango-Gonzalez B, Ueffing M, Paquet-Durand F. In vitro Model Systems for Studies Into Retinal Neuroprotection. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:938089. [PMID: 35873807 PMCID: PMC9301112 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.938089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapy development for neurodegenerative diseases of the retina constitutes a major unmet medical need, and this may be particularly relevant for inherited diseases of the retina, which are largely untreatable to this day. Therapy development necessitates appropriate models to improve the understanding of the underlying degenerative mechanisms, as well as for the testing and evaluation of novel treatment approaches. This review provides an overview of various in vitro model systems used to study retinal neuroprotection. The in vitro methods and technologies discussed range from primary retinal cell cultures and cell lines, to retinal organoids and organotypic retinal explants, to the cultivation of whole eyeballs. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods are compared and evaluated, also in view of the 3R principles (i.e., the refinement, reduction, and replacement of live animal testing), to identify suitable in vitro alternatives for in vivo experimentation. The article further expands on the use of in vitro models to test and evaluate neuroprotective treatments and to aid the development of retinal drug delivery systems. Among the pharmacological agents tested and characterized in vitro are such that interfere with aberrant cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) -signaling or such that inhibit the activities of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), histone deacetylases (HDAC), calpain-type proteases, as well as unfolded protein response-related stress. We then introduce nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and discuss how different in vitro systems may be used to assess their efficacy in the treatment of retinal diseases. The summary provides a brief comparison of available in vitro models and relates their advantages and limitations to the various experimental requirements, for instance, for studies into disease mechanisms, novel treatments, or retinal toxicity. In many cases, combinations of different in vitro models may be required to obtain a comprehensive view of the efficacy of a given retinal neuroprotection approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhu
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bowen Cao
- Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Molecular Biology of Retinal Degenerations, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Arianna Tolone
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jie Yan
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gustav Christensen
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Blanca Arango-Gonzalez
- Molecular Biology of Retinal Degenerations, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Molecular Biology of Retinal Degenerations, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Marius Ueffing,
| | - François Paquet-Durand
- Cell Death Mechanisms Group, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- François Paquet-Durand,
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Xi Z, Öztürk BE, Johnson ME, Turunç S, Stauffer WR, Byrne LC. Quantitative single-cell transcriptome-based ranking of engineered AAVs in human retinal explants. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 25:476-489. [PMID: 35615708 PMCID: PMC9118357 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a rapidly developing field, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are a leading viral-vector candidate for therapeutic gene delivery. Newly engineered AAVs with improved abilities are now entering the clinic. It has proven challenging, however, to predict the translational potential of gene therapies developed in animal models due to cross-species differences. Human retinal explants are the only available model of fully developed human retinal tissue and are thus important for the validation of candidate AAV vectors. In this study, we evaluated 18 wild-type and engineered AAV capsids in human retinal explants using a recently developed single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) AAV engineering pipeline (scAAVengr). Human retinal explants retained the same major cell types as fresh retina, with similar expression of cell-specific markers except for a photoreceptor population with altered expression of photoreceptor-specific genes. The efficiency and tropism of AAVs in human explants were quantified with single-cell resolution. The top-performing serotypes, K91, K912, and 7m8, were further validated in non-human primate and human retinal explants. Together, this study provides detailed information about the transcriptome profiles of retinal explants and quantifies the infectivity of leading AAV serotypes in human retina, accelerating the translation of retinal gene therapies to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouhuan Xi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bilge E Öztürk
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Molly E Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Serhan Turunç
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Leah C Byrne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Wu A, Lu R, Lee E. Tissue engineering in age-related macular degeneration: a mini-review. J Biol Eng 2022; 16:11. [PMID: 35578246 PMCID: PMC9109377 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-022-00291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive, degenerative disease of the macula, leading to severe visual loss in the elderly population. There are two types of AMD: non-exudative ('dry') AMD and exudative ('wet') AMD. Non-exudative AMD is characterized by drusen formation and macular atrophy, while the blood vessels are not leaky. Exudative AMD is a more advanced form of the disease, featured with abnormal blood vessel growth and vascular leakage. Even though anti-angiogenic therapies have been effective in treating wet AMD by normalizing blood vessels, there is no treatment available to prevent or treat dry AMD. Currently, the mechanisms of drusen formation and macular atrophy in the dry AMD are poorly understood, in part because the currently available in vivo models of AMD could not decouple and isolate the complex biological and biophysical factors in the macular region for a detailed mechanism study, including the complement system, angiogenesis factors, extracellular matrix, etc. In the present review article, we describe the biological background of AMD and the key cells and structures in AMD, including retinal epithelium, photoreceptor, Bruch's membrane, and choriocapillaris. We also discuss pre-clinical animal models of AMD and in vivo tissue-engineered approaches, including cell suspension injection and organoid-derived cell sheet transplantation. We also discuss in vitro tissue-engineered models for AMD research. Specifically, we evaluate and compare currently available two- and three-dimensional AMD tissue-engineered models that mimic key anatomical players in AMD progression, including pathophysiological characteristics in Bruch's membrane, photoreceptor, and choriocapillaris. Finally, we discuss the limitation of current AMD models and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres Wu
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Renhao Lu
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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42
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Porcine Corneas Incubated at Low Humidity Present Characteristic Features Found in Dry Eye Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094567. [PMID: 35562958 PMCID: PMC9101159 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Dry eye is a multifactorial disease that affects the ocular surface and tear fluid. Current treatment options include lubricant eye drop application several times a day. However, these eye drops often cause local side effects like ocular allergies or blurred vision after the application. To test new treatment options, a robust dry eye model is needed. Here, a porcine ex vivo model was established by means of incubation of porcine corneas in low humidity (LH) and characterized by histological damage evaluation, epithelial thickness and by relevant dry eye markers, such as interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), occludin and galectin-3. In the dry eye model proposed, an increased secretion of IL-1β was observed, as well as an upregulation of NF-κB, occludin and galectin-3 mRNA expression. Moreover, the model presented a higher rate of cell death in comparison to the controls. These effects could be reversed with successful treatment of dexamethasone (dexa) and partially reversed with hyaluronic acid (HA) containing eye drops. Furthermore, medium-molecular-weight HA stimulated an increase in IL-1β in the model proposed. In conclusion, this dry eye model mimics the in vivo condition and hence allows for animal-free testing of novel dry eye treatments.
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43
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Influence of carrier materials and coatings on retinal pigment epithelium cultivation and functions. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:109063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Wareham LK, Liddelow SA, Temple S, Benowitz LI, Di Polo A, Wellington C, Goldberg JL, He Z, Duan X, Bu G, Davis AA, Shekhar K, Torre AL, Chan DC, Canto-Soler MV, Flanagan JG, Subramanian P, Rossi S, Brunner T, Bovenkamp DE, Calkins DJ. Solving neurodegeneration: common mechanisms and strategies for new treatments. Mol Neurodegener 2022; 17:23. [PMID: 35313950 PMCID: PMC8935795 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00524-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Across neurodegenerative diseases, common mechanisms may reveal novel therapeutic targets based on neuronal protection, repair, or regeneration, independent of etiology or site of disease pathology. To address these mechanisms and discuss emerging treatments, in April, 2021, Glaucoma Research Foundation, BrightFocus Foundation, and the Melza M. and Frank Theodore Barr Foundation collaborated to bring together key opinion leaders and experts in the field of neurodegenerative disease for a virtual meeting titled "Solving Neurodegeneration". This "think-tank" style meeting focused on uncovering common mechanistic roots of neurodegenerative disease and promising targets for new treatments, catalyzed by the goal of finding new treatments for glaucoma, the world's leading cause of irreversible blindness and the common interest of the three hosting foundations. Glaucoma, which causes vision loss through degeneration of the optic nerve, likely shares early cellular and molecular events with other neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system. Here we discuss major areas of mechanistic overlap between neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system: neuroinflammation, bioenergetics and metabolism, genetic contributions, and neurovascular interactions. We summarize important discussion points with emphasis on the research areas that are most innovative and promising in the treatment of neurodegeneration yet require further development. The research that is highlighted provides unique opportunities for collaboration that will lead to efforts in preventing neurodegeneration and ultimately vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren K Wareham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Shane A Liddelow
- Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, NY, 12144, Rensselaer, USA
| | - Larry I Benowitz
- Department of Neurosurgery and F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Cheryl Wellington
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, CA, Palo Alto, USA
| | - Zhigang He
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, MA, Boston, USA
| | - Xin Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Albert A Davis
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Karthik Shekhar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Anna La Torre
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - David C Chan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, CA, 91125, Pasadena, USA
| | - M Valeria Canto-Soler
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Department of Ophthalmology, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - John G Flanagan
- Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - David J Calkins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Retinal Organoids and Retinal Prostheses: An Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23062922. [PMID: 35328339 PMCID: PMC8953078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23062922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the progress of modern medicine in the last decades, millions of people diagnosed with retinal dystrophies (RDs), such as retinitis pigmentosa, or age-related diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, are suffering from severe visual impairment or even legal blindness. On the one hand, the reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and the progress of three-dimensional (3D) retinal organoids (ROs) technology provide a great opportunity to study, understand, and even treat retinal diseases. On the other hand, research advances in the field of electronic retinal prosthesis using inorganic photovoltaic polymers and the emergence of organic semiconductors represent an encouraging therapeutical strategy to restore vision to patients at the late onset of the disease. This review will provide an overview of the latest advancement in both fields. We first describe the retina and the photoreceptors, briefly mention the most used RD animal models, then focus on the latest RO differentiation protocols, carry out an overview of the current technology on inorganic and organic retinal prostheses to restore vision, and finally summarize the potential utility and applications of ROs.
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Löscher M, Seiz C, Hurst J, Schnichels S. Topical Drug Delivery to the Posterior Segment of the Eye. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14010134. [PMID: 35057030 PMCID: PMC8779621 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Topical drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye is a very complex challenge. However, topical delivery is highly desired, to achieve an easy-to-use treatment option for retinal diseases. In this review, we focus on the drug characteristics that are relevant to succeed in this challenge. An overview on the ocular barriers that need to be overcome and some relevant animal models to study ocular pharmacokinetics are given. Furthermore, a summary of substances that were able to reach the posterior segment after eye drop application is provided, as well as an outline of investigated delivery systems to improve ocular drug delivery. Some promising results of substances delivered to the retina suggest that topical treatment of retinal diseases might be possible in the future, which warrants further research.
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Hypoxic Processes Induce Complement Activation via Classical Pathway in Porcine Neuroretinas. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123575. [PMID: 34944083 PMCID: PMC8700265 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the fact that many retinal diseases are yet to be cured, the pathomechanisms of these multifactorial diseases need to be investigated in more detail. Among others, oxidative stress and hypoxia are pathomechanisms that take place in retinal diseases, such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy. In consideration of these diseases, it is also evidenced that the immune system, including the complement system and its activation, plays an important role. Suitable models to investigate neuroretinal diseases are organ cultures of porcine retina. Based on an established model, the role of the complement system was studied after the induction of oxidative stress or hypoxia. Both stressors led to a loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) accompanied by apoptosis. Hypoxia activated the complement system as noted by higher C3+ and MAC+ cell numbers. In this model, activation of the complement cascade occurred via the classical pathway and the number of C1q+ microglia was increased. In oxidative stressed retinas, the complement system had no consideration, but strong inflammation took place, with elevated TNF, IL6, and IL8 mRNA expression levels. Together, this study shows that hypoxia and oxidative stress induce different mechanisms in the porcine retina inducing either the immune response or an inflammation. Our findings support the thesis that the immune system is involved in the development of retinal diseases. Furthermore, this study is evidence that both approaches seem suitable models to investigate undergoing pathomechanisms of several neuroretinal diseases.
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48
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Xue J, Zhu Y, Liu Z, Lin J, Li Y, Li Y, Zhuo Y. Demyelination of the Optic Nerve: An Underlying Factor in Glaucoma? Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:701322. [PMID: 34795572 PMCID: PMC8593209 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.701322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are characterized by typical neuronal degeneration and axonal loss in the central nervous system (CNS). Demyelination occurs when myelin or oligodendrocytes experience damage. Pathological changes in demyelination contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and worsen clinical symptoms during disease progression. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and the optic nerve. Since it is not yet well understood, we hypothesized that demyelination could play a significant role in glaucoma. Therefore, this study started with the morphological and functional manifestations of demyelination in the CNS. Then, we discussed the main mechanisms of demyelination in terms of oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and immuno-inflammatory responses. Finally, we summarized the existing research on the relationship between optic nerve demyelination and glaucoma, aiming to inspire effective treatment plans for glaucoma in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingfei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingting Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jicheng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangjiani Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Armento A, Murali A, Marzi J, Almansa-Garcia AC, Arango-Gonzalez B, Kilger E, Clark SJ, Schenke-Layland K, Ramlogan-Steel CA, Steel JC, Ueffing M. Complement Factor H Loss in RPE Cells Causes Retinal Degeneration in a Human RPE-Porcine Retinal Explant Co-Culture Model. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11111621. [PMID: 34827622 PMCID: PMC8615889 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease of the macula affecting the elderly population. Treatment options are limited, partly due to the lack of understanding of AMD pathology and the lack of suitable research models that replicate the complexity of the human macula and the intricate interplay of the genetic, aging and lifestyle risk factors contributing to AMD. One of the main genetic risks associated with AMD is located on the Complement Factor H (CFH) gene, leading to an amino acid substitution in the Factor H (FH) protein (Y402H). However, the mechanism of how this FH variant promotes the onset of AMD remains unclear. Previously, we have shown that FH deprivation in RPE cells, via CFH silencing, leads to increased inflammation, metabolic impairment and vulnerability toward oxidative stress. In this study, we established a novel co-culture model comprising CFH silenced RPE cells and porcine retinal explants derived from the visual streak of porcine eyes, which closely resemble the human macula. We show that retinae exposed to FH-deprived RPE cells show signs of retinal degeneration, with rod cells being the first cells to undergo degeneration. Moreover, via Raman analyses, we observed changes involving the mitochondria and lipid composition of the co-cultured retinae upon FH loss. Interestingly, the detrimental effects of FH loss in RPE cells on the neuroretina were independent of glial cell activation and external complement sources. Moreover, we show that the co-culture model is also suitable for human retinal explants, and we observed a similar trend when RPE cells deprived of FH were co-cultured with human retinal explants from a single donor eye. Our findings highlight the importance of RPE-derived FH for retinal homeostasis and provide a valuable model for AMD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Armento
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (M.U.); Tel.: +49-7071-29-84953 (A.A.)
| | - Aparna Murali
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.A.R.-S.); (J.C.S.)
| | - Julia Marzi
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department for Medical Technologies and Regenerative Medicine, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (J.M.); (K.S.-L.)
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ana C Almansa-Garcia
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Blanca Arango-Gonzalez
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Ellen Kilger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
| | - Simon J Clark
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Katja Schenke-Layland
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department for Medical Technologies and Regenerative Medicine, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (J.M.); (K.S.-L.)
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medicine/Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Charmaine A Ramlogan-Steel
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.A.R.-S.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Jason C Steel
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.A.R.-S.); (J.C.S.)
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Department for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (A.M.); (A.C.A.-G.); (B.A.-G.); (E.K.); (S.J.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (M.U.); Tel.: +49-7071-29-84953 (A.A.)
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50
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Chen Y, Zhang T, Zeng S, Yam M, Gillies MC, Zhu L. Isolation, Culture, and Identification of Primary Muller Cells from Human Retina. Bio Protoc 2021; 11:e4179. [PMID: 34722826 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Muller cells, the major glial cells of the retina, play vital roles in maintaining redox homeostasis and retinal metabolism. An immortalized human Muller cell line (MIO-M1) is widely used as an in vitro model to study Muller cells' function, but they may not be exactly the same as primarily cultured human Muller cells. The use of human primary Muller cells (huPMCs) in culture has been limited by the requirement for complicated culture systems or particular age ranges of donors. We have successfully grown huPMCs using our established protocol. The cell type was pure, and cultured cells expressed Muller cell-specific markers strongly. The cultured huPMCs were used for morphologic, metabolic, transcriptomic, and functional studies. Graphic abstract: Timeline for human primary Muller cell (huPMC) culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ting Zhang
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Shaoxue Zeng
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle Yam
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark C Gillies
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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