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Wu F, Bard JE, Kann J, Yergeau D, Sapkota D, Ge Y, Hu Z, Wang J, Liu T, Mu X. Single cell transcriptomics reveals lineage trajectory of retinal ganglion cells in wild-type and Atoh7-null retinas. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1465. [PMID: 33674582 PMCID: PMC7935890 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Atoh7 has been believed to be essential for establishing the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) lineage, and Pou4f2 and Isl1 are known to regulate RGC specification and differentiation. Here we report our further study of the roles of these transcription factors. Using bulk RNA-seq, we identify genes regulated by the three transcription factors, which expand our understanding of the scope of downstream events. Using scRNA-seq on wild-type and mutant retinal cells, we reveal a transitional cell state of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) co-marked by Atoh7 and other genes for different lineages and shared by all early retinal lineages. We further discover the unexpected emergence of the RGC lineage in the absence of Atoh7. We conclude that competence of RPCs for different retinal fates is defined by lineage-specific genes co-expressed in the transitional state and that Atoh7 defines the RGC competence and collaborates with other factors to shepherd transitional RPCs to the RGC lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuguo Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan E Bard
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Julien Kann
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Donald Yergeau
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Darshan Sapkota
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Yichen Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Zihua Hu
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Xiuqian Mu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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Ge Y, Wu F, Cheng M, Bard J, Mu X. Two new genetically modified mouse alleles labeling distinct phases of retinal ganglion cell development by fluorescent proteins. Dev Dyn 2020; 249:1514-1528. [PMID: 32741043 PMCID: PMC7855626 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During development, all retinal cell types arise from retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) in a step-wise fashion. Atoh7 and Pou4f2 mark, and function in, two phases of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) genesis; Atoh7 functions in a subpopulation of RPCs to render them competent for the RGC fate, whereas Pou4f2 participates in RGC fate specification and RGC differentiation. Despite extensive research on their roles, the properties of the two phases represented by these two factors have not been well studied, likely due to the retinal cellular heterogeneity. RESULTS In this report, we describe two novel knock-in mouse alleles, Atoh7zsGreenCreERT2 and Pou4f2FlagtdTomato , which labeled retinal cells in the two phases of RGC development by fluorescent proteins. Also, the Atoh7zsGreenCreERT2 allele allowed for indirect labeling of RGCs and other cell types upon tamoxifen induction in a dose-dependent manner. Further, these alleles could be used to purify retinal cells in the different phases by fluorescence assisted cell sorting (FACS). Single cell RNA-seq analysis of purified cells from Atoh7zsGreenCreERT2 retinas further validated that this allele labeled both transitional/competent RPCs and their progenies including RGCs. CONCLUSIONS Thus, these two alleles are very useful tools for studying the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying RGC formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Fuguo Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Mobin Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Jonathan Bard
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Xiuqian Mu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
- New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
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3
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Miesfeld JB, Ghiasvand NM, Marsh-Armstrong B, Marsh-Armstrong N, Miller EB, Zhang P, Manna SK, Zawadzki RJ, Brown NL, Glaser T. The Atoh7 remote enhancer provides transcriptional robustness during retinal ganglion cell development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:21690-21700. [PMID: 32817515 PMCID: PMC7474671 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2006888117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal ganglion cell (RGC) competence factor ATOH7 is dynamically expressed during retinal histogenesis. ATOH7 transcription is controlled by a promoter-adjacent primary enhancer and a remote shadow enhancer (SE). Deletion of the ATOH7 human SE causes nonsyndromic congenital retinal nonattachment (NCRNA) disease, characterized by optic nerve aplasia and total blindness. We used genome editing to model NCRNA in mice. Deletion of the murine SE reduces Atoh7 messenger RNA (mRNA) fivefold but does not recapitulate optic nerve loss; however, SEdel/knockout (KO) trans heterozygotes have thin optic nerves. By analyzing Atoh7 mRNA and protein levels, RGC development and survival, and chromatin landscape effects, we show that the SE ensures robust Atoh7 transcriptional output. Combining SE deletion and KO and wild-type alleles in a genotypic series, we determined the amount of Atoh7 needed to produce a normal complement of adult RGCs, and the secondary consequences of graded reductions in Atoh7 dosage. Together, these data reveal the workings of an evolutionary fail-safe, a duplicate enhancer mechanism that is hard-wired in the machinery of vertebrate retinal ganglion cell genesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel B Miesfeld
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Noor M Ghiasvand
- Department of Biology, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI 49401
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Brennan Marsh-Armstrong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
| | - Nicholas Marsh-Armstrong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
| | - Eric B Miller
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Suman K Manna
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Robert J Zawadzki
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
| | - Nadean L Brown
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Tom Glaser
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA 95616;
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Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of the early developmental origins of six ocular tissues: the cornea, lens, ciliary body, iris, neural retina, and retina pigment epithelium. Many of these tissue types are concurrently specified and undergo a complex set of morphogenetic movements that facilitate their structural interconnection. Within the context of vertebrate eye organogenesis, we also discuss the genetic hierarchies of transcription factors and signaling pathways that regulate growth, patterning, cell type specification and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel B Miesfeld
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Nadean L Brown
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States.
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5
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Saha A, Tiwari S, Dharmarajan S, Otteson DC, Belecky-Adams TL. Class I histone deacetylases in retinal progenitors and differentiating ganglion cells. Gene Expr Patterns 2018; 30:37-48. [PMID: 30179675 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acetylation state of histones has been used as an indicator of the developmental state of progenitor and differentiating cells. The goal of this study was to determine the nuclear localization patterns of Class I histone deacetylases (HDACs) in retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), as the first step in understanding their potential importance in cell fate determination within the murine retina. RESULTS The only HDAC to label RPC nuclei at E16 and P5 was HDAC1. In contrast, there was generally increased nuclear localization of all Class I HDACs in differentiating RGCs. Between P5 and P30, SOX2 expression becomes restricted to Müller glial, cholinergic amacrine cells, and retinal astrocytes. Cholinergic amacrine showed a combination of changes in nuclear localization of Class I HDACs. Strikingly, although Müller glia and retinal astrocytes express many of the same genes, P30 Müller glial cells showed nuclear localization only of HDAC1, while retinal astrocytes were positive for HDACs 1, 2, and 3. CONCLUSION These results indicate there may be a role for one or more of the Class I HDACs in retinal cell type-specific differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Saha
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA; Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Sarika Tiwari
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA; Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Subramanian Dharmarajan
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA; Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Deborah C Otteson
- University of Houston College of Optometry, 4901 Calhoun Rd. Rm 2195, Houston, TX, 77204-2020, USA.
| | - Teri L Belecky-Adams
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA; Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis, 723 W Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
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Miesfeld JB, Glaser T, Brown NL. The dynamics of native Atoh7 protein expression during mouse retinal histogenesis, revealed with a new antibody. Gene Expr Patterns 2018; 27:114-121. [PMID: 29225067 PMCID: PMC5835195 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2017.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The Atoh7 transcription factor catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the specification of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). As a tool to study vertebrate retinal development, we validate an antibody that recognizes human and mouse Atoh7 polypeptide, using informative knockout and transgenic mouse tissues and overexpression experiments. The transient features of Atoh7 protein expression during retinal neurogenesis match the expected pattern at the tissue and cellular level. Further, we compare endogenous Atoh7 to established RGC markers, reporter mouse lines and cell cycle markers, demonstrating the utility of the antibody to investigate molecular mechanisms of retinal histogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel B Miesfeld
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Tom Glaser
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Nadean L Brown
- Department of Cell Biology & Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
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Huang L, Chen M, Zhang W, Sun X, Liu B, Ge J. Retinoid acid and taurine promote NeuroD1-induced differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal ganglion cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 438:67-76. [PMID: 28766169 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) possess the capacity to differentiate into multiple cell types including retinal neurons. Despite substantial progress in the transcriptional regulation of iPSC differentiation process, the efficiency of generation of retinal neurons from iPSCs is still low. In this study, we investigated the role of transcription factor NeuroD1 in the differentiation of iPSCs into retinal neurons. We observed that retrovirus-mediated NeuroD1 overexpression in iPSCs increased the efficiency of neuronal differentiation. Immunostaining analysis showed that NeuroD1 overexpression increased the expression of retina ganglion cell markers including Islet-1, Math5, Brn3b, and Thy1.2. Retinoid acid (RA) and taurine further improved the differentiation efficiency of iPSCs overexpressing NeuroD1. However, RA and taurine did not promote differentiation in the absence of NeuroD1 overexpression. Together, our study provides new evidence in transcription factor-regulated stem cell differentiation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Mengfei Chen
- Head&Neck Surgery Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Weizhong Zhang
- Ophthalmology Department, Sir Runrun Hospital Affiliated With Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 325200, China
| | - Xuerong Sun
- Institute of Aging Research, Dongguan Scientific Research Center, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, 523808, China
| | - Bingqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmologic Center, Sun Yet-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Vetter ML, Hitchcock PF. Report on the National Eye Institute Audacious Goals Initiative: Replacement of Retinal Ganglion Cells from Endogenous Cell Sources. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2017; 6:5. [PMID: 28316878 PMCID: PMC5354473 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.6.2.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This report emerges from a workshop convened by the National Eye Institute (NEI) as part of the "Audacious Goals Initiative" (AGI). The workshop addressed the replacement of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from exogenous and endogenous sources, and sought to identify the gaps in our knowledge and barriers to progress in devising cellular replacement therapies for diseases where RGCs die. Here, we briefly review relevant literature regarding common diseases associated with RGC death, the genesis of RGCs in vivo, strategies for generating transplantable RGCs in vitro, and potential endogenous cellular sources to regenerate these cells. These topics provided the clinical and scientific context for the discussion among the workshop participants and are relevant to efforts that may lead to therapeutic approaches for replacing RGCs. This report also summarizes the content of the workshop discussion, which focused on: (1) cell sources for RGC replacement and regeneration, (2) optimizing integration, survival, and synaptogenesis of new RGCs, and (3) approaches for assessing the outcomes of RGC replacement therapies. We conclude this report with a summary of recommendations, based on the workshop discussions, which may guide vision scientists seeking to develop therapies for replacing RGCs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L Vetter
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Peter F Hitchcock
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Aparicio JG, Hopp H, Choi A, Mandayam Comar J, Liao VC, Harutyunyan N, Lee TC. Temporal expression of CD184(CXCR4) and CD171(L1CAM) identifies distinct early developmental stages of human retinal ganglion cells in embryonic stem cell derived retina. Exp Eye Res 2017; 154:177-189. [PMID: 27867005 PMCID: PMC5359064 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Human retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have anticipated value for human disease study, drug screening, and therapeutic applications; however, their full potential remains underdeveloped. To characterize RGCs in human embryonic stem cell (hESC) derived retinal organoids we examined RGC markers and surface antigen expression and made comparisons to human fetal retina. RGCs in both tissues exhibited CD184 and CD171 expression and distinct expression patterns of the RGC markers BRN3 and RBPMS. The retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) of retinal organoids expressed CD184, consistent with its expression in the neuroblastic layer in fetal retina. In retinal organoids CD184 expression was enhanced in RGC competent RPCs and high CD184 expression was retained on post-mitotic RGC precursors; CD171 was detected on maturing RGCs. The differential expression timing of CD184 and CD171 permits identification and enrichment of RGCs from retinal organoids at differing maturation states from committed progenitors to differentiating neurons. These observations will facilitate molecular characterization of PSC-derived RGCs during differentiation, critical knowledge for establishing the veracity of these in vitro produced cells. Furthermore, observations made in the retinal organoid model closely parallel those in human fetal retina further validating use of retinal organoid to model early retinal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G Aparicio
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - H Hopp
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - A Choi
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - V C Liao
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - N Harutyunyan
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - T C Lee
- The Vision Center, Division of Ophthalmology, and Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and USC Eye Institute, University of Southern California, USA
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Wu N, Wang Y, Yang L, Cho KS. Signaling Networks of Retinal Ganglion Cell Formation and the Potential Application of Stem Cell–Based Therapy in Retinal Degenerative Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:609-20. [PMID: 27466076 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2016.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wu
- 1 Department of Ophthalmology, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University , Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Wang
- 1 Department of Ophthalmology, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University , Chongqing, China
| | - Lanbo Yang
- 2 Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- 2 Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
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11
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Deng F, Chen M, Liu Y, Hu H, Xiong Y, Xu C, Liu Y, Li K, Zhuang J, Ge J. Stage-specific differentiation of iPSCs toward retinal ganglion cell lineage. Mol Vis 2016; 22:536-47. [PMID: 27293372 PMCID: PMC4885909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE As an alternative and desirable approach for regenerative medicine, human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology raises the possibility of developing patient-tailored cell therapies to treat intractable degenerative diseases in the future. This study was undertaken to guide human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts-derived iPSCs (TiPSCs) to differentiate along the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) lineage, aiming at producing appropriate cellular material for RGC regeneration. METHODS By mimicking RGC genesis, we deliberately administered the whole differentiation process and directed the stage-specific differentiation of human TiPSCs toward an RGC fate via manipulation of the retinal inducers (DKK1+Noggin+Lefty A) alongside master gene (Atoh7) sequentially. Throughout this stepwise differentiation process, changes in primitive neuroectodermal, eye field, and RGC marker expression were monitored with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, and/or flow cytometry. RESULTS Upon retinal differentiation, a large fraction of the cells developed characteristics of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) in response to simulated environment signaling (DKK1+Noggin+Lefty A), which was selectively recovered with manual isolation approaches and then maintained in the presence of mitogen for multiple passages. Thereafter, overexpression of ATOH7 further promoted RGC specification in TiPSC-derived RPCs. A subset of transfected cells displayed RGC-specific expression patterns, including Brn3b, iSlet1, calretinin, and Tuj, and approximately 23% of Brn3b-positive RGC-like cells were obtained finally. CONCLUSIONS Our DKK1+Noggin+Lefty A/Atoh7-based RGC-induction regime could efficiently direct TiPSCs to differentiate along RGC lineage in a stage-specific manner, which may provide a benefit to develop possible cell therapies to treat retinal degenerative diseases such as glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengfei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiling Hu
- Shengzhen Ophthalmic Center of Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yunfan Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaochao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Castro AE, Benitez SG, Farias Altamirano LE, Savastano LE, Patterson SI, Muñoz EM. Expression and cellular localization of the transcription factor NeuroD1 in the developing and adult rat pineal gland. J Pineal Res 2015; 58:439-51. [PMID: 25752781 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms govern many aspects of mammalian physiology. The daily pattern of melatonin synthesis and secretion is one of the classic examples of circadian oscillations. It is mediated by a class of neuroendocrine cells known as pinealocytes which are not yet fully defined. An established method to evaluate functional and cytological characters is through the expression of lineage-specific transcriptional regulators. NeuroD1 is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor involved in the specification and maintenance of both endocrine and neuronal phenotypes. We have previously described developmental and adult regulation of NeuroD1 mRNA in the rodent pineal gland. However, the transcript levels were not influenced by the elimination of sympathetic input, suggesting that any rhythmicity of NeuroD1 might be found downstream of transcription. Here, we describe NeuroD1 protein expression and cellular localization in the rat pineal gland during development and the daily cycle. In embryonic and perinatal stages, protein expression follows the mRNA pattern and is predominantly nuclear. Thereafter, NeuroD1 is mostly found in pinealocyte nuclei in the early part of the night and in cytoplasm during the day, a rhythm maintained into adulthood. Additionally, nocturnal nuclear NeuroD1 levels are reduced after sympathetic disruption, an effect mimicked by the in vivo administration of α- and β-adrenoceptor blockers. NeuroD1 phosphorylation at two sites, Ser(274) and Ser(336) , associates with nuclear localization in pinealocytes. These data suggest that NeuroD1 influences pineal phenotype both during development and adulthood, in an autonomic and phosphorylation-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Analía E Castro
- Laboratory of Neurobiology: Chronobiology Section, Institute of Histology and Embryology of Mendoza (IHEM-CONICET), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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13
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Sluch VM, Zack DJ. Stem cells, retinal ganglion cells and glaucoma. DEVELOPMENTS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2014; 53:111-21. [PMID: 24732765 DOI: 10.1159/000358409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) represent an essential neuronal cell type for vision. These cells receive inputs from light-sensing photoreceptors via retinal interneurons and then relay these signals to the brain for further processing. RGC diseases that result in cell death, e.g. glaucoma, often lead to permanent damage since mammalian nerves do not regenerate. Stem cell differentiation can generate cells needed for replacement or can be used to generate cells capable of secreting protective factors to promote survival. In addition, stem cell-derived cells can be used in drug screening research. Here, we discuss the current state of stem cell research potential for interference in glaucoma and other optic nerve diseases with a focus on stem cell differentiation to RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin M Sluch
- Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md., USA
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Bai L, Kiyama T, Li H, Wang SW. Birth of cone bipolar cells, but not rod bipolar cells, is associated with existing RGCs. PLoS One 2014; 9:e83686. [PMID: 24392091 PMCID: PMC3879276 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) play important roles in retinogenesis. They are required for normal retinal histogenesis and retinal cell number balance. Developmental RGC loss is typically characterized by initial retinal neuronal number imbalance and subsequent loss of retinal neurons. However, it is not clear whether loss of a specific non-RGC cell type in the RGC-depleted retina is due to reduced cell production or subsequent degeneration. Taking advantage of three knockout mice with varying degrees of RGC depletion, we re-examined bipolar cell production in these retinas from various aspects. Results show that generation of the cone bipolar cells is correlated with the existing number of RGCs. However, generation of the rod bipolar cells is unaffected by RGC shortage. Results report the first observation that RGCs selectively influence the genesis of subsequent retinal cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Bai
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Takae Kiyama
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Steven W. Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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15
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Islet-1 immunoreactivity in the developing retina of Xenopus laevis. ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:740420. [PMID: 24348185 PMCID: PMC3844241 DOI: 10.1155/2013/740420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The LIM-homeodomain transcription factor Islet1 (Isl1) has been widely used as a marker of neuronal differentiation in the developing visual system of different classes of vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. In the present study, we analyzed the spatial and temporal distribution of Isl1-immunoreactive cells during Xenopus laevis retinal development and its relation to the formation of the retinal layers, and in combination with different markers of cell differentiation. The earliest Isl1 expression appeared at St29-30 in the cell nuclei of sparse differentiating neuroblasts located in the vitreal surface of the undifferentiated retina. At St35-36, abundant Isl1-positive cells accumulated at the vitreal surface of the neuroepithelium. As development proceeded and through the postmetamorphic juveniles, Isl1 expression was identified in subpopulations of ganglion cells and in subsets of amacrine, bipolar, and horizontal cells. These data together suggest a possible role for Isl1 in the early differentiation and maintenance of different retinal cell types, and Isl1 can serve as a specific molecular marker for the study of retinal cell specification in X. laevis.
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16
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Nanomedicine for the treatment of retinal and optic nerve diseases. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2013; 13:134-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Revised: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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17
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Galindo-Romero C, Jiménez-López M, García-Ayuso D, Salinas-Navarro M, Nadal-Nicolás FM, Agudo-Barriuso M, Villegas-Pérez MP, Avilés-Trigueros M, Vidal-Sanz M. Number and spatial distribution of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells in the adult albino rat. Exp Eye Res 2013; 108:84-93. [PMID: 23295345 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2012.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) respond directly to light and are responsible of the synchronization of the circadian rhythm with the photic stimulus and for the pupillary light reflex. To quantify the total population of rat-ipRGCs and to assess their spatial distribution we have developed an automated routine and used neighbour maps. Moreover, in all analysed retinas we have studied the general population of RGCs - identified by their Brn3a expression - and the population of ipRGCs - identified by melanopsin immunodetection - thus allowing the co-analysis of their topography. Our results show that the total mean number ± standard deviation of ipRGCs in the albino rat is 2047 ± 309. Their distribution in the retina seems to be complementary to that of Brn3a(+)RGCs, being denser in the periphery, especially in the superior retina where their highest densities are found in the temporal quadrant, above the visual streak. In addition, by tracing the retinas from both superior colliculi, we have also determined that 90.62% of the ipRGC project to these central targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Galindo-Romero
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Regional Campus of International Excellence Campus Mare Nostrum, Instituto Murciano de Investigaciones Biosanitarias, Campus de Espinardo Universidad de Murcia, E-30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
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18
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Distinct neurogenic potential in the retinal margin and the pars plana of mammalian eye. J Neurosci 2012; 32:12797-807. [PMID: 22973003 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0118-12.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Unlike many other vertebrates, a healthy mammalian retina does not grow throughout life and lacks a ciliary margin zone capable of actively generating new neurons. The isolation of stem-like cells from the ciliary epithelium has led to speculation that the mammalian retina and/or surrounding tissues may retain neurogenic potential capable of responding to retinal damage. Using genetically altered mouse lines with varying degrees of retinal ganglion cell loss, we show that the retinal margin responds to ganglion cell loss by prolonging specific neurogenic activity, as characterized by increased numbers of Atoh7(LacZ)-expressing cells. The extent of neurogenic activity correlated with the degree of ganglion cell deficiency. In the pars plana, but not the retinal margin, cells remain proliferative into adulthood, marking the junction of pars plana and retinal margin as a niche capable of producing proliferative cells in the mammalian retina and a potential cellular source for retinal regeneration.
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19
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Nadal-Nicolás FM, Jiménez-López M, Salinas-Navarro M, Sobrado-Calvo P, Alburquerque-Béjar JJ, Vidal-Sanz M, Agudo-Barriuso M. Whole number, distribution and co-expression of brn3 transcription factors in retinal ganglion cells of adult albino and pigmented rats. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49830. [PMID: 23166779 PMCID: PMC3500320 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The three members of the Pou4f family of transcription factors: Pou4f1, Pou4f2, Pou4f3 (Brn3a, Brn3b and Brn3c, respectively) play, during development, essential roles in the differentiation and survival of sensory neurons. The purpose of this work is to study the expression of the three Brn3 factors in the albino and pigmented adult rat. Animals were divided into these groups: i) untouched; ii) fluorogold (FG) tracing from both superior colliculli; iii) FG-tracing from one superior colliculus; iv) intraorbital optic nerve transection or crush. All retinas were dissected as flat-mounts and subjected to single, double or triple immunohistofluorescence The total number of FG-traced, Brn3a, Brn3b, Brn3c or Brn3 expressing RGCs was automatically quantified and their spatial distribution assessed using specific routines. Brn3 factors were studied in the general RGC population, and in the intrinsically photosensitive (ip-RGCs) and ipsilateral RGC sub-populations. Our results show that: i) 70% of RGCs co- express two or three Brn3s and the remaining 30% express only Brn3a (26%) or Brn3b; ii) the most abundant Brn3 member is Brn3a followed by Brn3b and finally Brn3c; iii) Brn3 a-, b- or c- expressing RGCs are similarly distributed in the retina; iv) The vast majority of ip-RGCs do not express Brn3; v) The main difference between both rat strains was found in the population of ipsilateral-RGCs, which accounts for 4.2% and 2.5% of the total RGC population in the pigmented and albino strain, respectively. However, more ipsilateral-RGCs express Brn3 factors in the albino than in the pigmented rat; vi) RGCs that express only Brn3b and RGCs that co-express the three Brn3 members have the biggest nuclei; vii) After axonal injury the level of Brn3a expression in the surviving RGCs decreases compared to control retinas. Finally, this work strengthens the validity of Brn3a as a marker to identify and quantify rat RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M Nadal-Nicolás
- Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca. Fundación para la Formación e Investigación Sanitarias de la Región de Murcia, IMIB, El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
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20
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Adult mice transplanted with embryonic retinal progenitor cells: new approach for repairing damaged optic nerves. Mol Vis 2012; 18:2658-72. [PMID: 23170059 PMCID: PMC3501281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 11/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and optic nerve degeneration are complex processes whose underlying molecular mechanisms are only vaguely understood. Treatments commonly used for optic nerve degeneration have little long-term value and only prolong degeneration. Recent advances in stem cell replacement therapy offer new ways to overcome RGC loss by transferring healthy cells into eyes of afflicted individuals. However, studies on stem cell replacement for optic nerve degeneration are hampered by limitations of the available animal models, especially genetic models. We have developed a mouse model in which RGCs are genetically ablated in adult mice with subsequent degeneration of the optic nerve. In the study reported here, we used this model to determine whether embryonic retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) removed from donor retinas when RPCs are committing to an RGC fate could restore lost RGCs. METHODS We used the RGC-depleted model as a host for transplanting donor green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled RPCs from embryonic retinas that are maximally expressing Atoh7, a basic helix-loop-helix gene essential for RGC specification. Dissociated GFP-labeled RPCs were characterized in situ by immunolabeling with antibodies against proteins known to be expressed in RPCs at embryonic day (E)14.5. Dissociated retinal cells were injected into the vitreous of one eye of RGC-depleted mice at two to six months of age. The injected and non-injected retinas were analyzed for gene expression using immunolabeling, and the morphology of optic nerves was assessed visually and with histological staining at different times up to four months after injection. RESULTS We demonstrate the successful transfer of embryonic GFP-labeled RPCs into the eyes of RGC-depleted mice. Many transplanted RPCs invaded the ganglion cell layer, but the efficiency of the invasion was low. GFP-labeled cells within the ganglion cell layer expressed genes associated with early and late stages of RGC differentiation, including Pou4f1, Pou4f2, NFL, Map2, and syntaxin. Several GFP-labeled cells were detected within the injected optic nerves of RGC-depleted mice, and in most cases, we observed a significant increase in the thickness of the RPC-injected optic nerves compared with non-injected controls. We also observed more bundled axons emanating from RPC-injected retinas compared with RGC-depleted controls. CONCLUSIONS The results offer a new approach for regenerating damaged optic nerves and indicate that a significant number of E14.5 RPCs are able to differentiate into RGCs in the foreign environment of the adult retina. However, the proportion of RPCs that populated the ganglion cell layer and contributed to the optic nerve was not sufficient to account for the increased thickness and higher number of axons. The results support the hypothesis that the injected E14.5 RPCs are contributing autonomously and non-autonomously to restoring damaged optic nerves.
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21
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Gregory-Evans CY, Wallace VA, Gregory-Evans K. Gene networks: dissecting pathways in retinal development and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2012; 33:40-66. [PMID: 23128416 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
During retinal neurogenesis, diverse cellular subtypes originate from multipotent neural progenitors in a spatiotemporal order leading to a highly specialized laminar structure combined with a distinct mosaic architecture. This is driven by the combinatorial action of transcription factors and signaling molecules which specify cell fate and differentiation. The emerging approach of gene network analysis has allowed a better understanding of the functional relationships between genes expressed in the developing retina. For instance, these gene networks have identified transcriptional hubs that have revealed potential targets and pathways for the development of therapeutic options for retinal diseases. Much of the current knowledge has been informed by targeted gene deletion experiments and gain-of-functional analysis. In this review we will provide an update on retinal development gene networks and address the wider implications for future disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Y Gregory-Evans
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3N9, Canada.
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22
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TFE2 and GATA3 enhance induction of POU4F3 and myosin VIIa positive cells in nonsensory cochlear epithelium by ATOH1. Dev Biol 2012; 372:68-80. [PMID: 22985730 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 09/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) can regulate different sets of genes to determine specific cell types by means of combinatorial codes. We previously identified closely-spaced TF binding motifs located 8.2-8.5 kb 5' to the ATG of the murine Pou4f3 gene, a gene required for late hair cell (HC) differentiation and survival. These motifs, 100% conserved among four mammalian species, include a cluster of E-boxes preferred by TCF3/ATOH1 heterodimers as well as motifs for GATA factors and SP1. We hypothesized that these factors might interact to regulate the Pou4f3 gene and possibly induce a HC phenotype in non-sensory cells of the cochlea. Cochlear sensory epithelium explants were prepared from postnatal day 1.5 transgenic mice in which expression of GFP is driven by 8.5 kb of Pou4f3 5' genomic DNA (Pou4f3/GFP). Electroporation was used to transfect cells of the greater epithelial ridge with multiple plasmids encoding human ATOH1 (hATOH1), hTCF3 (also known as E2A or TEF2), hGATA3, and hSP1. hATOH1 or hTCF3 alone induced Pou4f3/GFP cells but hGATA3 and hSP1 did not. hATOH1 but not hTCF3 induced conversion of greater epithelial ridge cells into Pou4f3/GFP and myosin VIIa double-positive cells. Transfection of hATOH1 in combination with hTCF3 or hGATA3 induced 2-3X more Pou4f3/GFP cells, and similarly enhanced Pou4f3/GFP and myosin VIIa double-positive cells, when compared to hATOH1 alone. Triple or quadruple TF combinations were generally not more effective than double TF combinations except in the middle turn, where co-transfection of hATOH1, hE2A, and hGATA3 was more effective than hATOH1 plus either hTCF3 or hGATA3. The results demonstrate that TFs can cooperate in regulation of the Pou4f3 gene and in the induction of at least one other element of a HC phenotype. Our data further indicate that combinations of TFs can be more effective than individual TFs in the inner ear.
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23
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Cell fate determination in the vertebrate retina. Trends Neurosci 2012; 35:565-73. [PMID: 22704732 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2012] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The vertebrate retina is a well-characterized and tractable model for studying neurogenesis. Retinal neurons and glia are generated in a conserved sequence from a pool of multipotent progenitor cells, and numerous cell fate determinants for the different classes of retinal cell types have been identified. Here, we summarize several recent developments in the field that have advanced understanding of the regulation of multipotentiality and temporal competence of progenitors. We also discuss recent insights into the relative influence of lineage-based versus stochastic modes of cell fate determination. Enhancing and integrating knowledge of the molecular and genetic machinery underlying retinal development is critically important for understanding not only normal developmental mechanisms, but also therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring vision loss.
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Pushing the envelope of retinal ganglion cell genesis: context dependent function of Math5 (Atoh7). Dev Biol 2012; 368:214-30. [PMID: 22609278 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The basic-helix-loop helix factor Math5 (Atoh7) is required for retinal ganglion cell (RGC) development. However, only 10% of Math5-expressing cells adopt the RGC fate, and most become photoreceptors. In principle, Math5 may actively bias progenitors towards RGC fate or passively confer competence to respond to instructive factors. To distinguish these mechanisms, we misexpressed Math5 in a wide population of precursors using a Crx BAC or 2.4 kb promoter, and followed cell fates with Cre recombinase. In mice, the Crx cone-rod homeobox gene and Math5 are expressed shortly after cell cycle exit, in temporally distinct, but overlapping populations of neurogenic cells that give rise to 85% and 3% of the adult retina, respectively. The Crx>Math5 transgenes did not stimulate RGC fate or alter the timing of RGC births. Likewise, retroviral Math5 overexpression in retinal explants did not bias progenitors towards the RGC fate or induce cell cycle exit. The Crx>Math5 transgene did reduce the abundance of early-born (E15.5) photoreceptors two-fold, suggesting a limited cell fate shift. Nonetheless, retinal histology was grossly normal, despite widespread persistent Math5 expression. In an RGC-deficient (Math5 knockout) environment, Crx>Math5 partially rescued RGC and optic nerve development, but the temporal envelope of RGC births was not extended. The number of early-born RGCs (before E13) remained very low, and this was correlated with axon pathfinding defects and cell death. Together, these results suggest that Math5 is not sufficient to stimulate RGC fate. Our findings highlight the robust homeostatic mechanisms, and role of pioneering neurons in RGC development.
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Brzezinski JA, Prasov L, Glaser T. Math5 defines the ganglion cell competence state in a subpopulation of retinal progenitor cells exiting the cell cycle. Dev Biol 2012; 365:395-413. [PMID: 22445509 PMCID: PMC3337348 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Revised: 03/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor Math5 (Atoh7) is transiently expressed during early retinal histogenesis and is necessary for retinal ganglion cell (RGC) development. Using nucleoside pulse-chase experiments and clonal analysis, we determined that progenitor cells activate Math5 during or after the terminal division, with progressively later onset as histogenesis proceeds. We have traced the lineage of Math5+ cells using mouse BAC transgenes that express Cre recombinase under strict regulatory control. Quantitative analysis showed that Math5+ progenitors express equivalent levels of Math5 and contribute to every major cell type in the adult retina, but are heavily skewed toward early fates. The Math5>Cre transgene labels 3% of cells in adult retina, including 55% of RGCs. Only 11% of Math5+ progenitors develop into RGCs; the majority become photoreceptors. The fate bias of the Math5 cohort, inferred from the ratio of cone and rod births, changes over time, in parallel with the remaining neurogenic population. Comparable results were obtained using Math5 mutant mice, except that ganglion cells were essentially absent, and late fates were overrepresented within the lineage. We identified Math5-independent RGC precursors in the earliest born (embryonic day 11) retinal cohort, but these precursors require Math5-expressing cells for differentiation. Math5 thus acts permissively to establish RGC competence within a subset of progenitors, but is not sufficient for fate specification. It does not autonomously promote or suppress the determination of non-RGC fates. These data are consistent with progressive and temporal restriction models for retinal neurogenesis, in which environmental factors influence the final histotypic choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A. Brzezinski
- Departments of Human Genetics and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Lev Prasov
- Departments of Human Genetics and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Tom Glaser
- Departments of Human Genetics and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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Wu F, Sapkota D, Li R, Mu X. Onecut 1 and Onecut 2 are potential regulators of mouse retinal development. J Comp Neurol 2012; 520:952-69. [PMID: 21830221 PMCID: PMC3898336 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Our current study focuses on the expression of two members of the onecut transcription factor family, Onecut1 (Oc1) and Onecut2 (Oc2), in the developing mouse retina. By immunofluorescence staining, we found that Oc1 and Oc2 had very similar expression patterns throughout retinal development. Both factors started to be expressed in the retina at around embryonic day (E) 11.5. At early stages (E11.5 and E12.5), they were expressed in both the neuroblast layer (NBL) and ganglion cell layer (GCL). As development progressed (from E14.5 to postnatal day [P] 0), expression diminished in the retinal progenitor cells and became more restricted to the GCL. By P5, Oc1 and Oc2 were expressed at very low levels in the GCL. By co-labeling with transcription factors known to be involved in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) development, we found that Oc1 and Oc2 had extensive overlap with Math5 in the NBL, and that they completely overlapped with Pou4f2 and Isl1 in the GCL, but only partially in the NBL. Co-labeling of Oc1 with cell cycle markers confirmed that Oc1 was expressed in both proliferating retinal progenitors and postmitotic retinal cells. In addition, we demonstrated that expression of Oc1 and Oc2 did not require Math5, Isl1, or Pou4f2. Thus, Oc1 and Oc2 may regulate the formation of RGCs in a pathway independent of Math5, Pou4f2, and Isl1. Furthermore, we showed that Oc1 and Oc2 were expressed in both developing and mature horizontal cells (HCs). Therefore the two factors may also function in the genesis and maintenance of HCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuguo Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, Developmental Genomics Group, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
| | - Darshan Sapkota
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, Developmental Genomics Group, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
| | - Renzhong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, Developmental Genomics Group, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
| | - Xiuqian Mu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, Developmental Genomics Group, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
- State University of New York (SUNY) Eye Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14203
- Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) Molecular Epidemiology and Functional Genomics (MEFG) Program, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263
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