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Wu J, Zhou L, Liu Y, Zhang X, Yang Y, Zhu X, Bu Q, Shan X, Yin J, Weinreb RN, Zhou Q, Pan X, Huang AS. VEGF-C and 5-Fluorouracil Improve Bleb Survival in a Rabbit Glaucoma Surgery Trabeculectomy Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:32. [PMID: 38771570 PMCID: PMC11114614 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.5.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate VEGF-C-induced lymphoproliferation in conjunction with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) antimetabolite treatment in a rabbit glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) model. Methods Thirty-two rabbits underwent GFS and were assigned to four groups (n = 8 each) defined by subconjunctival drug treatment: (a) VEGF-C combined with 5-FU, (b) 5-FU, (c) VEGF-C, (d) and control. Bleb survival, bleb measurements, and IOP were evaluated over 30 days. At the end, histology and anterior segment OCT were performed on some eyes. mRNA was isolated from the remaining eyes for RT-PCR evaluation of vessel-specific markers (lymphatics, podoplanin and LYVE-1; and blood vessels, CD31). Results Qualitatively and quantitatively, VEGF-C combined with 5-FU resulted in blebs which were posteriorly longer and wider than the other conditions: vs. 5-FU (P = 0.043 for longer, P = 0.046 for wider), vs. VEGF-C (P < 0.001, P < 0.001) and vs. control (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). After 30 days, the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition resulted in longer bleb survival compared with 5-FU (P = 0.025), VEGF-C (P < 0.001), and control (P < 0.001). Only the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition showed a negative correlation between IOP and time that was statistically significant (r = -0.533; P = 0.034). Anterior segment OCT and histology demonstrated larger blebs for the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition. Only conditions including VEGF-C led to increased expression of lymphatic markers (LYVE-1, P < 0.001-0.008 and podoplanin, P = 0.002-0.011). Expression of CD31 was not different between the groups (P = 0.978). Conclusions Adding VEGF-C lymphoproliferation to standard antimetabolite treatment improved rabbit GFS success and may suggest a future strategy to improve human GFSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Wu
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Longfang Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yameng Liu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Yuanhang Yang
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qianwen Bu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinmiao Shan
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jia Yin
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Robert N. Weinreb
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Alex S. Huang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
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Yin X, Zhang S, Lee JH, Dong H, Mourgkos G, Terwilliger G, Kraus A, Geraldo LH, Poulet M, Fischer S, Zhou T, Mohammed FS, Zhou J, Wang Y, Malloy S, Rohner N, Sharma L, Salinas I, Eichmann A, Thomas JL, Saltzman WM, Huttner A, Zeiss C, Ring A, Iwasaki A, Song E. Compartmentalized ocular lymphatic system mediates eye-brain immunity. Nature 2024; 628:204-211. [PMID: 38418880 PMCID: PMC10990932 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07130-8] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The eye, an anatomical extension of the central nervous system (CNS), exhibits many molecular and cellular parallels to the brain. Emerging research demonstrates that changes in the brain are often reflected in the eye, particularly in the retina1. Still, the possibility of an immunological nexus between the posterior eye and the rest of the CNS tissues remains unexplored. Here, studying immune responses to herpes simplex virus in the brain, we observed that intravitreal immunization protects mice against intracranial viral challenge. This protection extended to bacteria and even tumours, allowing therapeutic immune responses against glioblastoma through intravitreal immunization. We further show that the anterior and posterior compartments of the eye have distinct lymphatic drainage systems, with the latter draining to the deep cervical lymph nodes through lymphatic vasculature in the optic nerve sheath. This posterior lymphatic drainage, like that of meningeal lymphatics, could be modulated by the lymphatic stimulator VEGFC. Conversely, we show that inhibition of lymphatic signalling on the optic nerve could overcome a major limitation in gene therapy by diminishing the immune response to adeno-associated virus and ensuring continued efficacy after multiple doses. These results reveal a shared lymphatic circuit able to mount a unified immune response between the posterior eye and the brain, highlighting an understudied immunological feature of the eye and opening up the potential for new therapeutic strategies in ocular and CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyun Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sophia Zhang
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ju Hyun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Huiping Dong
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - George Mourgkos
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gordon Terwilliger
- Section of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aurora Kraus
- Center of Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Luiz Henrique Geraldo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mathilde Poulet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Suzanne Fischer
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Farrah Shalima Mohammed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jiangbing Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yongfu Wang
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Seth Malloy
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Nicolas Rohner
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Lokesh Sharma
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Irene Salinas
- Center of Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Anne Eichmann
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Université de Paris, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Leon Thomas
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Institut du Cerveau, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - W Mark Saltzman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Anita Huttner
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Caroline Zeiss
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aaron Ring
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Akiko Iwasaki
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Eric Song
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Pilotte J, Huang AS, Khoury S, Zhang X, Tafreshi A, Vanderklish P, Sarraf ST, Pulido JS, Milman T. Detection of TTR Amyloid in the Conjunctiva Using a Novel Fluorescent Ocular Tracer. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:11. [PMID: 38359019 PMCID: PMC10876017 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.2.11] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a significant cause of cardiomyopathy and other morbidities in the elderly and Black Americans. ATTR can be treated with new disease-modifying therapies, but large shortfalls exist in its diagnosis. The objective of this study was to test whether TTR amyloid can be detected and imaged in the conjunctiva using a novel small-molecule fluorescent ocular tracer, with the implication that ATTR might be diagnosable by a simple eye examination. Methods Three approaches were used in this study. First, AMDX-9101 was incubated with in vitro aggregated TTR protein, and changes in its excitation and emission spectra were quantified. Second, a cadaver eye from a patient with familial amyloid polyneuropathy type II TTR mutation and a vitrectomy sample from an hATTR patient were incubated with AMDX-9101 and counterstained with Congo Red and antibodies to TTR to determine whether AMDX-9101 labels disease-related TTR amyloid deposits in human conjunctiva and eye. Last, imaging of in vitro aggregated TTR amyloid labeled with AMDX-9101 was tested in a porcine ex vivo model, using a widely available clinical ophthalmic imaging device. Results AMDX-9101 hyper-fluoresced in the presence of TTR amyloid in vitro, labeled TTR amyloid deposits in postmortem human conjunctiva and other ocular tissues and could be detected under the conjunctiva of a porcine eye using commercially available ophthalmic imaging equipment. Conclusions AMDX-9101 enabled detection of TTR amyloid in the conjunctiva, and the fluorescent binding signal can be visualized using commercially available ophthalmic imaging equipment. Translational Relevance AMDX-9101 detection of TTR amyloid may provide a potential new and noninvasive test for ATTR that could lead to earlier ATTR diagnosis, as well as facilitate development of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex S. Huang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jose S. Pulido
- Vickie and Jack Farber Vision Research Center and MidAtlantic Retina Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tatyana Milman
- Vickie and Jack Farber Vision Research Center and MidAtlantic Retina Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Pathology Department, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Li HL, Ren R, Gong H. Segmental Unconventional Outflow in Mouse Eyes. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:26. [PMID: 38117243 PMCID: PMC10741088 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.15.26] [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: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the flow pattern in unconventional outflow and its correlation with conventional outflow in mouse eyes. Methods Fluorescent microspheres were injected into the anterior chamber of one eye of anesthetized C57BL/6J mice (n = 4), followed by perfused fixation with 4% paraformaldehyde in situ after 45 minutes. Post-euthanasia, the injected eyes were enucleated, further immersion fixed, and dissected into 12 equal radial segments. Both sides of each segment were imaged using a confocal microscope after nuclear counterstaining. Both unconventional and conventional outflow patterns of each eye were analyzed by ImageJ and ZEN 2.3 imaging software. Results Segmental outflow patterns were observed in both the ciliary body (CB) and the supraciliary space and suprachoroidal space (SCS). In the CB, the tracer intensity was the lowest at 12 o'clock and highest at 9 o'clock, whereas in the SCS it was the lowest at 2 o'clock and the highest at 10 o'clock. Consequently, a segmental unconventional outflow was observed, with the lowest and highest flow regions in the superior and temporal quadrants, respectively. The overall segmental uveoscleral outflow has no correlation with trabecular outflow (P > 0.05). Four different outflow patterns were observed: (1) low-flow regions in both outflows, (2) primarily a high-flow region in conventional outflow, (3) primarily a high-flow region in unconventional outflow, and (4) high-flow regions in both outflows. Conclusions Uveoscleral outflow is segmental and unrelated to the trabecular segmental outflow. These findings will lead to future studies to identify the best location for the placement of drainage devices and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Lam Li
- Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ruiyi Ren
- Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiyan Gong
- Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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5
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Kumar V, Bezzabotnov AI, Rustamova ZS, Dushina GN, Abu Zaalan KA, Shradqa ASS, Frolov MA. Clinical and Optical Coherence Tomography Evidence of Aqueous Humor Flow from the Suprachoroidal Space to Conjunctival Lymphatics. Vision (Basel) 2023; 7:59. [PMID: 37756133 PMCID: PMC10536777 DOI: 10.3390/vision7030059] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A surgical technique was developed to enhance aqueous humor (AH) flow through the non-trabecular outflow pathway by rerouting it from the anterior chamber (AC) to the suprachoroidal space (SCS) without detaching the ciliary body from the scleral spur. Medium- and long-term surgical outcomes were retrospectively analyzed in a case series of 58 glaucoma patients. At 6, 12, and 24 months, the mean IOP decreased from 27.8 ± 8.3 to 14.9 ± 5.0 mmHg, median 15.0 (25th percentile (p25)13.0; 75th percentile (p75) 18.0) and 15.2 ± 3.3 mmHg, and hypotensive medication use reduced from a median (p25; p75) of 3 (2; 3) to 0 (0; 2), 0 (0; 2), and 0 (0; 1.5), respectively. Intra- and postoperative complications were few and manageable. Following surgery, no bleb formation occurred in any of the cases (as confirmed by optical coherence tomography). Conjunctival lymphatic vessels (CLVs) developed in 50% of eyes (29/58). Clinically, they developed directly from sclera and had no connection to the surgical site. Analysis further showed that the development of CLVs and their longer visibility period had poor prognostic value for IOP control. If the fluid flow from the SCS to CLVs was resistance-free, no CLV development was evident. However, if any resistance existed in the flow, the fluid accumulated in lymphatics, resulting in their engorgement. The proposed technique was safe and effective in decreasing IOP in glaucoma patients by enhancing AH flow from the SCS to CLVs via connecting intrascleral microchannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Kumar
- Department of Eye Diseases, Medical Institute, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba, 6 Mikluho-Maklaya St., 117198 Moscow, Russia; (Z.S.R.); (G.N.D.); (M.A.F.)
- Centre of Eye Microsurgery “PRO Zrenie”, 1 Gorshina Str., 141407 Khimki, Russia; (A.I.B.); (K.A.A.Z.); (A.S.S.S.)
| | - Andrey Igorevich Bezzabotnov
- Centre of Eye Microsurgery “PRO Zrenie”, 1 Gorshina Str., 141407 Khimki, Russia; (A.I.B.); (K.A.A.Z.); (A.S.S.S.)
| | - Zarina Shaykuliyevna Rustamova
- Department of Eye Diseases, Medical Institute, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba, 6 Mikluho-Maklaya St., 117198 Moscow, Russia; (Z.S.R.); (G.N.D.); (M.A.F.)
| | - Galina Nikolaevna Dushina
- Department of Eye Diseases, Medical Institute, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba, 6 Mikluho-Maklaya St., 117198 Moscow, Russia; (Z.S.R.); (G.N.D.); (M.A.F.)
- Centre of Eye Microsurgery “PRO Zrenie”, 1 Gorshina Str., 141407 Khimki, Russia; (A.I.B.); (K.A.A.Z.); (A.S.S.S.)
| | - Kamal Abdulmuhsen Abu Zaalan
- Centre of Eye Microsurgery “PRO Zrenie”, 1 Gorshina Str., 141407 Khimki, Russia; (A.I.B.); (K.A.A.Z.); (A.S.S.S.)
| | - Ahmad Saleh Soliman Shradqa
- Centre of Eye Microsurgery “PRO Zrenie”, 1 Gorshina Str., 141407 Khimki, Russia; (A.I.B.); (K.A.A.Z.); (A.S.S.S.)
| | - Mikhail Aleksandrovich Frolov
- Department of Eye Diseases, Medical Institute, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia Named after Patrice Lumumba, 6 Mikluho-Maklaya St., 117198 Moscow, Russia; (Z.S.R.); (G.N.D.); (M.A.F.)
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6
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Clahsen T, Hadrian K, Notara M, Schlereth SL, Howaldt A, Prokosch V, Volatier T, Hos D, Schroedl F, Kaser-Eichberger A, Heindl LM, Steven P, Bosch JJ, Steinkasserer A, Rokohl AC, Liu H, Mestanoglu M, Kashkar H, Schumacher B, Kiefer F, Schulte-Merker S, Matthaei M, Hou Y, Fassbender S, Jantsch J, Zhang W, Enders P, Bachmann B, Bock F, Cursiefen C. The novel role of lymphatic vessels in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 96:101157. [PMID: 36759312 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Historically, the eye has been considered as an organ free of lymphatic vessels. In recent years, however, it became evident, that lymphatic vessels or lymphatic-like vessels contribute to several ocular pathologies at various peri- and intraocular locations. The aim of this review is to outline the pathogenetic role of ocular lymphatics, the respective molecular mechanisms and to discuss current and future therapeutic options based thereon. We will give an overview on the vascular anatomy of the healthy ocular surface and the molecular mechanisms contributing to corneal (lymph)angiogenic privilege. In addition, we present (i) current insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during pathological neovascularization of the cornea triggered e.g. by inflammation or trauma, (ii) the role of lymphatic vessels in different ocular surface pathologies such as dry eye disease, corneal graft rejection, ocular graft versus host disease, allergy, and pterygium, (iii) the involvement of lymphatic vessels in ocular tumors and metastasis, and (iv) the novel role of the lymphatic-like structure of Schlemm's canal in glaucoma. Identification of the underlying molecular mechanisms and of novel modulators of lymphangiogenesis will contribute to the development of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of ocular diseases associated with pathological lymphangiogenesis in the future. The preclinical data presented here outline novel therapeutic concepts for promoting transplant survival, inhibiting metastasis of ocular tumors, reducing inflammation of the ocular surface, and treating glaucoma. Initial data from clinical trials suggest first success of novel treatment strategies to promote transplant survival based on pretransplant corneal lymphangioregression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Clahsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Karina Hadrian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simona L Schlereth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Antonia Howaldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Verena Prokosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Volatier
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Falk Schroedl
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra Kaser-Eichberger
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ludwig M Heindl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philipp Steven
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jacobus J Bosch
- Centre for Human Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Alexander C Rokohl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hanhan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mert Mestanoglu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hamid Kashkar
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), CECAD Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn Schumacher
- Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Friedemann Kiefer
- European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI), University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulte-Merker
- Institute for Cardiovascular Organogenesis and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, WWU Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mario Matthaei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yanhong Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Sonja Fassbender
- IUF‒Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Duesseldorf, Germany; Immunology and Environment, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jonathan Jantsch
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philip Enders
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn Bachmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Pereira ICF, Wyss HM, Pinchuk L, Beckers HJM, den Toonder JMJ. A model for designing intraocular pressure-regulating glaucoma implants. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273672. [PMID: 36054120 PMCID: PMC9439203 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for vision. The key risk factor for the development and progression of this disease is increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Implantable glaucoma drainage devices have been developed to divert aqueous humor from the glaucomatous eye as a means of reducing IOP. The artificial drainage pathway created by these devices drives the fluid into a filtering bleb. The long-term success of filtration surgery is dictated by the proper functioning of the bleb and overlying Tenon’s and conjunctival tissue. To better understand the influence of the health condition of these tissues on IOP, we have developed a mathematical model of fluid production in the eye, its removal from the anterior chamber by a particular glaucoma implant–the PRESERFLO® MicroShunt–, drainage into the bleb and absorption by the subconjunctival vasculature. The mathematical model was numerically solved by commercial FEM package COMSOL. Our numerical results of IOP for different postoperative conditions are consistent with the available evidence on IOP outcomes after the implantation of this device. To obtain insight into the adjustments in the implant’s hydrodynamic resistance that are required for IOP control when hypotony or bleb scarring due to tissue fibrosis take place, we have simulated the flow through a microshunt with an adjustable lumen diameter. Our findings show that increasing the hydrodynamic resistance of the microshunt by reducing the lumen diameter, can effectively help to prevent hypotony. However, decreasing the hydrodynamic resistance of the implant will not sufficiently decrease the IOP to acceptable levels when the bleb is encapsulated due to tissue fibrosis. Therefore, to effectively reduce IOP, the adjustable glaucoma implant should be combined with a means of reducing fibrosis. The results reported herein may provide guidelines to support the design of future glaucoma implants with adjustable hydrodynamic resistances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês C. F. Pereira
- Microsystems, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hans M. Wyss
- Microsystems, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Leonard Pinchuk
- InnFocus, Inc., a Santen Company, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Henny J. M. Beckers
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap M. J. den Toonder
- Microsystems, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Lee JY, Strohmaier CA, Akiyama G, Saraswathy S, Yoo C, Kim YY, Hong YK, Huang AS. Bleb-related Porcine Lymphatic Outflow is Greater from Subconjunctival compared to Subtenon Blebs. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2022; 16:144-151. [PMID: 36793268 PMCID: PMC9905879 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10078-1382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim Understanding the mechanism of fluid outflow by comparing the subconjunctival and subtenon spaces can lead to improved ocular therapeutics. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate subconjunctival vs subtenon lymphatic outflow by creating tracer-filled blebs in each location. Methods Porcine (n = 20) eyes received subconjunctival or subtenon injection(s) of fixable and fluorescent dextrans. Blebs were angiographically imaged using a Heidelberg Spectralis ([Heidelberg Retina Angiograph] HRA + OCT; Heidelberg Engineering) and bleb-related lymphatic outflow pathways were counted. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of these pathways was used to assess structural lumens and the presence of valve-like structures. Furthermore, a comparison between tracer injection locations (superior/inferior/temporal/nasal) was made. Histologic analyses for subconjunctival and subtenon outflow pathways were performed, to confirm tracer co-localization with molecular lymphatic markers. Results Subconjunctival blebs demonstrated a greater number of lymphatic outflow pathways compared to subtenon blebs in every quadrant [superior: 6.10 ± 1.18 (subconjunctival) vs 0.50 ± 0.27 (subtenon); temporal: 2.30 ± 0.40 vs 0.10 ± 0.10; nasal: 5.30 ± 0.60 vs 0.30 ± 0.21; inferior: 6.00 ±1.29 vs 0.1 ± 0.1; all comparisons p < 0.001]. For subconjunctival blebs, the temporal quadrant showed fewer lymphatic outflow pathways compared to the nasal side (p = 0.005). Discussion Subconjunctival blebs accessed greater lymphatic outflow compared to subtenon blebs. Furthermore, regional differences existed, with fewer lymphatic vessels temporal than at the other locations. Clinical significance Aqueous humor drainage after glaucoma surgery is incompletely understood. The present manuscript adds to our understanding of how lymphatics might influence filtration bleb function. How to cite this article Lee JY, Strohmaier CA, Akiyama G, et al. Bleb-related Porcine Lymphatic Outflow Is Greater from Subconjunctival compared to Subtenon Blebs. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2022;16(3):144-151.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Yeon Lee
- Doheny Eye Institute and Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Clemens Adolf Strohmaier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria; The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, Hamilton Glaucoma Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | | | - Sindhu Saraswathy
- Doheny Eye Institute and Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Chungkwon Yoo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Yeon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alex S Huang
- Alfred Vogt Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, Hamilton Glaucoma Center, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
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Lee JY, Wu J, Liu Y, Saraswathy S, Zhou L, Bu Q, Su Y, Choi D, Park E, Strohmaier CA, Weinreb RN, Hong YK, Pan X, Huang AS. Subconjunctival Lymphatics Respond to VEGFC and Anti-Metabolites in Rabbit and Mouse Eyes. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:16. [PMID: 36166215 PMCID: PMC9526361 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.10.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To characterize and pharmacologically influence subconjunctival lymphatics in rabbit and mouse eyes. Methods Rabbits received subconjunctival injections of trypan blue or fixable fluorescent dextrans. Bleb-related outflow pathways were quantified. Immunofluorescence for vessel-specific markers (lymphatics [podoplanin and LYVE-1] and blood vessels [CD31]) were performed in native rabbit conjunctiva and after fixable fluorescent dextran injection. Vascular endothelial cell growth factor-C (VEGFC) was injected subconjunctivally in rabbits. mRNA and protein were assessed for the above markers using RT-PCR and Western blot. Alternatively, mouse studies used Prox1-tdTomato transgenic reporter mice. Subconjunctival injection conditions included: no injection, balanced salt solution (BSS), VEGFC, 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and two concentrations of mitomycin-C (MMC). Two mouse injection protocols (short and long) with different follow-up times and number of injections were performed. Mouse eyes were enucleated, flat mounts created, and subconjunctival branching and length assessed. Results Rabbit eyes demonstrated clear bleb-related subconjunctival outflow pathways that were distinct from blood vessels and were without nasal/temporal predilection. Immunofluorescence against vessel-specific markers showed lymphatics and blood vessels in rabbit conjunctiva, and these lymphatics overlapped with bleb-related subconjunctival outflow pathways. Subconjunctival VEGFC increased lymphatic (P = 0.004-0.04) but not blood vessel (P = 0.77-0.84) mRNA or protein in rabbits. Prox1-tdTomato transgenic reporter mice demonstrated natively fluorescent lymphatics. Subconjunctival VEGFC increased murine lymphatic branching and length (P ≤ 0.001-0.004) while antimetabolites (P ≤ 0.001-0.043) did the opposite for the long protocol. Discussion Subconjunctival lymphatics are pharmacologically responsive to both VEGFC and antimetabolites in two animal models studied using different methodologies. These results may be important for bleb-forming glaucoma surgeries or ocular drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Yeon Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jingyi Wu
- Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China.,State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yameng Liu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Sindhu Saraswathy
- Doheny Eye Institute and Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Longfang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qianwen Bu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ying Su
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Dongwon Choi
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Eunkyung Park
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Clemens A Strohmaier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.,Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Robert N Weinreb
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Alex S Huang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
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