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Kumar B, Mishra M, Cashman S, Kumar-Singh R. Retinal Penetrating Adeno-Associated Virus. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:30. [PMID: 39172462 PMCID: PMC11346080 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.10.30] [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: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The most common method of delivery of genes to the outer retina uses recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) injected into the subretinal space using a surgical procedure. In contrast, most drugs are delivered to the retina using an intravitreal approach in an office setting. The objective of the current study was to develop AAV vectors that can reach the outer retina via intravitreal injection. Methods Recently, we described a molecular chaperone (Nuc1) that enhanced the penetration of small and large molecules, including AAV, into the retina. The Nuc1 amino acid sequence or a truncated version of Nuc1 (IKV) was genetically incorporated into an exposed loop of AAV2/9 VP1 protein. These novel recombinant AAV vectors expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) or nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were injected into the vitreous of C57Bl/6J or Nrf2 knockout mice, respectively. The amount of GFP expression or oxidative stress as measured by 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine staining in C57Bl/6J or Nrf2 knockout mice, respectively, was quantified. Results Incorporation of Nuc1 into AAV2/9 did not lead to significant expression of GFP in the murine retina. However, incorporation of IKV into AAV2/9 led to robust expression of GFP in photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) via the intravitreal and subretinal routes of delivery. Furthermore, expression of Nrf2 using an IKV vector led to a reduction in oxidative stress in the retina of C57Bl/6J and Nrf2 knockout mice. Conclusions We have developed a novel AAV vector that enables delivery of transgenes to the outer retina of mice, including photoreceptors and RPE following intravitreal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binit Kumar
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Manish Mishra
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Siobhan Cashman
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Rajendra Kumar-Singh
- Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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2
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Lu CL, Sha JJ, Ma RF, Dong XT, Su XR, Cong B, Wang SJ. Severe Hypothermia Induces Ferroptosis in Cerebral Cortical Nerve Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8086. [PMID: 39125656 PMCID: PMC11311695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158086] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal shifts in global climate, leading to extreme weather, significantly threaten the safety of individuals involved in outdoor activities. Hypothermia-induced coma or death frequently occurs in clinical and forensic settings. Despite this, the precise mechanism of central nervous system injury due to hypothermia remains unclear, hindering the development of targeted clinical treatments and specific forensic diagnostic indicators. The GEO database was searched to identify datasets related to hypothermia. Post-bioinformatics analyses, DEGs, and ferroptosis-related DEGs (FerrDEGs) were intersected. GSEA was then conducted to elucidate the functions of the Ferr-related genes. Animal experiments conducted in this study demonstrated that hypothermia, compared to the control treatment, can induce significant alterations in iron death-related genes such as PPARG, SCD, ADIPOQ, SAT1, EGR1, and HMOX1 in cerebral cortex nerve cells. These changes lead to iron ion accumulation, lipid peroxidation, and marked expression of iron death-related proteins. The application of the iron death inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) effectively modulates the expression of these genes, reduces lipid peroxidation, and improves the expression of iron death-related proteins. Severe hypothermia disrupts the metabolism of cerebral cortex nerve cells, causing significant alterations in ferroptosis-related genes. These genetic changes promote ferroptosis through multiple pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bin Cong
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhong Shan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; (C.-L.L.); (J.-J.S.); (R.-F.M.); (X.-T.D.); (X.-R.S.)
| | - Song-Jun Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhong Shan Road, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; (C.-L.L.); (J.-J.S.); (R.-F.M.); (X.-T.D.); (X.-R.S.)
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3
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Franci L, Vallini G, Bertolino FM, Cicaloni V, Inzalaco G, Cicogni M, Tinti L, Calabrese L, Barone V, Salvini L, Rubegni P, Galvagni F, Chiariello M. MAPK15 controls cellular responses to oxidative stress by regulating NRF2 activity and expression of its downstream target genes. Redox Biol 2024; 72:103131. [PMID: 38555711 PMCID: PMC10998232 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxidation processes in mitochondria and different environmental insults contribute to unwarranted accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These, in turn, rapidly damage intracellular lipids, proteins, and DNA, ultimately causing aging and several human diseases. Cells have developed different and very effective systems to control ROS levels. Among these, removal of excessive amounts is guaranteed by upregulated expression of various antioxidant enzymes, through activation of the NF-E2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2) protein. Here, we show that Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase 15 (MAPK15) controls the transactivating potential of NRF2 and, in turn, the expression of its downstream target genes. Specifically, upon oxidative stress, MAPK15 is necessary to increase NRF2 expression and nuclear translocation, by inducing its activating phosphorylation, ultimately supporting transactivation of cytoprotective antioxidant genes. Lungs are continuously exposed to oxidative damages induced by environmental insults such as air pollutants and cigarette smoke. Interestingly, we demonstrate that MAPK15 is very effective in supporting NRF2-dependent antioxidant transcriptional response to cigarette smoke of epithelial lung cells. Oxidative damage induced by cigarette smoke indeed represents a leading cause of disability and death worldwide by contributing to the pathogenesis of different chronic respiratory diseases and lung cancer. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic strategies able to modulate cellular responses to oxidative stress would be highly beneficial. Our data contribute to the necessary understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind such responses and identify new potentially actionable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Franci
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy; Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Siena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Vallini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Section of Dermatology, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Science, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Franca Maria Bertolino
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy; Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Siena, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | | | - Giovanni Inzalaco
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy; Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Siena, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | | | - Laura Tinti
- Toscana Life Sciences Foundation, Siena, Italy.
| | - Laura Calabrese
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Science, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Virginia Barone
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | | | - Pietro Rubegni
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Science, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Mario Chiariello
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica (IFC), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Siena, Italy; Core Research Laboratory (CRL), Istituto per lo Studio, la Prevenzione e la Rete Oncologica (ISPRO), Siena, Italy.
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Wang HF, Xu JS, Zong K, Liang ZW, Li RF, Xue JF, Ding J, Zhao LS. Jujuboside B alleviates acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice by regulating Nrf2-STING signaling pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115810. [PMID: 38100849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Jujuboside B (JuB) is the main bioactive saponin component of Chinese anti-insomnia herbal medicine Ziziphi Spinosae Semen, which has been reported to possess varied pharmacological functions. Even though it has been traditionally used to treat inflammation- and toxicity-related diseases, the effects of JuB on acetaminophen (APAP) overdose-induced hepatotoxicity have not been determined yet. METHODS C57BL/6 J mice were pre-treated with JuB (20 or 40 mg/kg) for seven days before APAP (400 mg/kg) injection. After 24 h of APAP treatment, serum, and liver tissues were collected to evaluate the therapeutic effects. To investigate whether the Nrf2-STING signaling pathway is involved in the protective effects of JuB against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity, the mice received the DMXAA (the specific STING agonist) or ML385 (the specific Nrf2 inhibitor) during the administration of JuB, and Hematoxylin-eosin staining, Real-time PCR, immunohistochemical, and western blot were performed. RESULTS JuB pretreatment reversed APAP-induced CYP2E1 accumulations and alleviated APAP-induced acute liver injury. Furthermore, JuB treatment significantly inhibited oxidative stress and the pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as alleviated hepatocyte apoptosis induced by APAP. Besides, our result also demonstrated that JuB treatment upregulated the levels of total Nrf2, facilitated its nuclear translocation, upregulated the expression of HO-1 and NQO-1, and inhibited the APAP-induced STING pathway activation. Finally, we verified that the beneficial effects of JuB were weakened by DMXAA and ML385. CONCLUSION Our study suggested that JuB could ameliorate APAP-induced hepatic damage and verified a previously unrecognized mechanism by which JuB prevented APAP-induced hepatotoxicity through adjusting the Nrf2-STING pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Fei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jia-Shuang Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ke Zong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Wei Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ren-Feng Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian-Feng Xue
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Ding
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Long-Shuan Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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Lei Y, Lei X, Zhu A, Xie S, Zhang T, Wang C, Song A, Wang X, Shu G, Deng X. Ethanol Extract of Rosa rugosa Ameliorates Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury via Upregulating Sirt1 and Subsequent Potentiation of LKB1/AMPK/Nrf2 Cascade in Hepatocytes. Molecules 2023; 28:7307. [PMID: 37959727 PMCID: PMC10649261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28217307] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury is a common hepatic disease resulting from drug abuse. Few targeted treatments are available clinically nowadays. The flower bud of Rosa rugosa has a wide range of biological activities. However, it is unclear whether it alleviates liver injury caused by APAP. Here, we prepared an ethanol extract of Rosa rugosa (ERS) and analyzed its chemical profile. Furthermore, we revealed that ERS significantly ameliorated APAP-induced apoptosis and ferroptosis in AML-12 hepatocytes and dampened APAP-mediated cytotoxicity. In AML-12 cells, ERS elevated Sirt1 expression, boosted the LKB1/AMPK/Nrf2 axis, and thereby crippled APAP-induced intracellular oxidative stress. Both EX527 and NAM, which are chemically unrelated inhibitors of Sirt1, blocked ERS-induced activation of LKB1/AMPK/Nrf2 signaling. The protection of ERS against APAP-triggered toxicity in AML-12 cells was subsequently abolished. As expression of LKB1 was knocked down, ERS still upregulated Sirt1 but failed to activate AMPK/Nrf2 cascade or suppress cytotoxicity provoked by APAP. Results of in vivo experiments showed that ERS attenuated APAP-caused hepatocyte apoptosis and ferroptosis and improved liver injury and inflammation. Consistently, ERS boosted Sirt1 expression, increased phosphorylations of LKB1 and AMPK, and promoted Nrf2 nuclear translocation in the livers of APAP-intoxicated mice. Hepatic transcriptions of HO-1 and GCLC, which are downstream antioxidant genes of Nrf2, were also significantly increased in response to ERS. Our results collectively indicated that ERS effectively attenuates APAP-induced liver injury by activating LKB1/AMPK/Nrf2 cascade. Upregulated expression of Sirt1 plays a crucial role in ERS-mediated activation of LKB1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yecheng Lei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Xiao Lei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Anqi Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Shijie Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Chuo Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Anning Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China;
| | - Guangwen Shu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
| | - Xukun Deng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.)
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Chen BS, Yu-Wai-Man P, Newman NJ. Developments in the Treatment of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2022; 22:881-892. [PMID: 36414808 PMCID: PMC9750907 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-022-01246-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSEOF REVIEW To outline the current landscape of treatments for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) along the therapeutic delivery pipeline, exploring the mechanisms of action and evidence for these therapeutic approaches. RECENT FINDINGS Treatments for LHON can be broadly classified as either mutation-specific or mutation-independent. Mutation-specific therapies aim to correct the underlying mutation through the use of a gene-editing platform or replace the faulty mitochondrial DNA-encoded protein by delivering the wild-type gene using a suitable vector. Recent gene therapy clinical trials assessing the efficacy of allotopically expressed MT-ND4 for the treatment of LHON due to the m.11778G > A mutation in MT-ND4 have shown positive results when treated within 12 months of symptom onset. Mutation-independent therapies can have various downstream targets that aim to improve mitochondrial respiration, reduce mitochondrial stress, inhibit or delay retinal ganglion cell apoptosis, and/or promote retinal ganglion cell survival. Idebenone, a synthetic hydrosoluble analogue of co-enzyme Q10 (ubiquinone), is the only approved treatment for LHON. Mutation-independent approaches to gene therapy under pre-clinical investigation for other neurodegenerative disorders may have the potential to benefit patients with LHON. Although approved treatments are presently limited, innovations in gene therapy and editing are driving the expansion of the therapeutic delivery pipeline for LHON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benson S Chen
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair and MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK.
- Cambridge Eye Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair and MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK
- Cambridge Eye Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nancy J Newman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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7
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Chen BS, Yu-Wai-Man P. From Bench to Bedside-Delivering Gene Therapy for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041282. [PMID: 35863905 PMCID: PMC9310952 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a rare, maternally inherited mitochondrial disorder that presents with severe bilateral sequential vision loss, due to the selective degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Since the mitochondrial genetic basis for LHON was uncovered in 1988, considerable progress has been made in understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms driving RGC loss, which has enabled the development of therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating the underlying mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we explore the genetics of LHON, from bench to bedside, focusing on the pathogenetic mechanisms and how these have informed the development of different gene therapy approaches, in particular the technique of allotopic expression with adeno-associated viral vectors. Finally, we provide an overview of the recent gene therapy clinical trials and consider the unanswered questions, challenges, and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benson S Chen
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair and MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, United Kingdom
- Cambridge Eye Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair and MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, United Kingdom
- Cambridge Eye Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, United Kingdom
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Genomic and transcriptomic analyses have well established that the major fraction of the mammalian genome is transcribed into different classes of RNAs ranging in size from a few nucleotides to hundreds of thousands of nucleotides, which do not encode any protein. Some of these noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are directly or indirectly linked to the regulation of expression or functions of 25,000 proteins coded by <2% of the human genome. Among these regulatory RNAs, microRNAs are small (2125 nucleotides) RNAs that are processed from precursor RNAs that have stemloop structure, whereas noncoding RNAs >200 nucleotides are termed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are newly identified lncRNA members that are generated by back-splicing of primary transcripts. The functions of ncRNAs in modulating liver toxicity of xenobiotics are emerging only recently. Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-para-aminophenol, paracetamol or APAP) is a safe analgesic and antipyretic drug at the therapeutic dose. However, it can cause severe liver toxicity that may lead to liver failure if overdosed or combined with alcohol, herbs, or other xenobiotics. This review discusses the role of ncRNAs in acetaminophen metabolism, toxicity, and liver regeneration after APAP-induced liver injury (AILI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Chowdhary
- *Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- †Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Pipasha Biswas
- †Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kalpana Ghoshal
- *Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- †Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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9
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Gu P, Yang Q, Chen B, Bie YN, Liu W, Tian Y, Luo H, Xu T, Liang C, Ye X, Liu Y, Tang X, Gu W. Genetically blocking HPD via CRISPR-Cas9 protects against lethal liver injury in a pig model of tyrosinemia type I. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 21:530-547. [PMID: 33997102 PMCID: PMC8099604 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary tyrosinemia type I (HT1) results from the loss of fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH) activity and can lead to lethal liver injury (LLI). Therapeutic options for HT1 remain limited. The FAH−/− pig, a well-characterized animal model of HT1, represents a promising candidate for testing novel therapeutic approaches to treat this condition. Here, we report an improved single-step method to establish a biallelic (FAH−/−) mutant porcine model using CRISPR-Cas9 and cytoplasmic microinjection. We also tested the feasibility of rescuing HT1 pigs through inactivating the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid dioxygenase (HPD) gene, which functions upstream of the pathogenic pathway, rather than by directly correcting the disease-causing gene as occurs with traditional gene therapy. Direct intracytoplasmic delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 targeting HPD before intrauterine death reprogrammed the tyrosine metabolism pathway and protected pigs against FAH deficiency-induced LLI. Characterization of the F1 generation revealed consistent liver-protective features that were germline transmissible. Furthermore, HPD ablation ameliorated oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and restored the gene profile relating to liver metabolism homeostasis. Collectively, this study not only provided a novel large animal model for exploring the pathogenesis of HT1, but also demonstrated that CRISPR-Cas9-mediated HPD ablation alleviated LLI in HT1 pigs and represents a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of HT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bangzhu Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ya-Nan Bie
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuguang Tian
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hongquan Luo
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chunjin Liang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xing Ye
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, China
| | - Xiangwu Tang
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, China
| | - Weiwang Gu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine & Laboratory Animal Management Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.,School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, China.,Songshan Lake Pearl Laboratory Animal Science & Technology Co., Ltd., Dongguan 523808, China
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10
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Potilinski MC, Tate PS, Lorenc VE, Gallo JE. New insights into oxidative stress and immune mechanisms involved in age-related macular degeneration tackled by novel therapies. Neuropharmacology 2021; 188:108513. [PMID: 33662390 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has increased in the last years. Although anti-VEGF agents have improved the prognosis of exudative AMD, dry AMD has still devastating effects on elderly people vision. Oxidative stress and inflammation are mechanisms involved in AMD pathogenesis and its progression. Molecular pathways involving epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP4) and the nuclear erythroid related factor 2 (Nrf2) are behind oxidative stress in AMD due to their participation in antioxidant cellular pathways. As a consequence of the disbalance produced in the antioxidant mechanisms, there is an activation of innate and adaptative immune response with cell recruitment, changes in complement factors expression, and modification of cellular milieu. Different therapies are being studied to treat dry AMD based on the possible effects on antioxidant molecular pathways or their action on the immune response. There is a wide range of treatments presented in this review, from natural antioxidant compounds to cell and gene therapy, based on their mechanisms. Finally, we hypothesize that alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT), an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory molecule that can also modulate antioxidant cellular defenses, could be a good candidate for testing in AMD. This article is part of the special ssue on 'The Quest for Disease-Modifying Therapies for Neurodegenerative Disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Constanza Potilinski
- Nanomedicine & Vision Lab, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translacional, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo S Tate
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translacional, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria E Lorenc
- Nanomedicine & Vision Lab, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translacional, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan E Gallo
- Nanomedicine & Vision Lab, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translacional, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Austral, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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11
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Mitochondria: The Retina's Achilles' Heel in AMD. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1256:237-264. [PMID: 33848005 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-66014-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Strong experimental evidence from studies in human donor retinas and animal models supports the idea that the retinal pathology associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves mitochondrial dysfunction and consequent altered retinal metabolism. This chapter provides a brief overview of mitochondrial structure and function, summarizes evidence for mitochondrial defects in AMD, and highlights the potential ramifications of these defects on retinal health and function. Discussion of mitochondrial haplogroups and their association with AMD brings to light how mitochondrial genetics can influence disease outcome. As one of the most metabolically active tissues in the human body, there is strong evidence that disruption in key metabolic pathways contributes to AMD pathology. The section on retinal metabolism reviews cell-specific metabolic differences and how the metabolic interdependence of each retinal cell type creates a unique ecosystem that is disrupted in the diseased retina. The final discussion includes strategies for therapeutic interventions that target key mitochondrial pathways as a treatment for AMD.
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12
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Li D, Bai X, Jiang Y, Cheng Y. Butyrate alleviates PTZ-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuron apoptosis in mice via Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Brain Res Bull 2020; 168:25-35. [PMID: 33359640 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of sodium butyrate against the pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced kindling epilepsy. Sodium butyrate (SB) (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) and sodium valproate for 40 days and PTZ (37 mg/kg) injection every day were conducted for Kunming mice, to investigate seizure intensity and latency, oxidative stress parameters, mitochondrial structure and function, histopathology, and Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 expressions. It is shown that seizure latency was effectively increased and the intensity of seizures decreased by treatment with sodium butyrate. It was also found to reverse the structural disruption of the mitochondria, reduce the ROS level and improve the levels of NAD + and ATP in the brains of epileptic mice. Furthermore, pretreatment with SB led to an increase in antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT, SOD and GSH-PX) in the brain as well as conferred a neuroprotective effect against neuron loss and apoptosis. The activation of Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signals was also identified, in which the antiepileptic effect of SB may be partially due to its anti-mitochondrial injury and neuroprotective activities. Accordingly, the results of a series of functional tests indicate a significant improvement of neurological function following SB treatment. In a mouse model of seizures, brain injury and neurological deficits can be attenuated by treatment with butyrate through the activation of Nrf2 pathway and the improvement of mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyue Li
- Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Xinying Bai
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yahong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
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13
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GD2-specific CAR T cells encapsulated in an injectable hydrogel control retinoblastoma and preserve vision. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 1:990-997. [PMID: 33898999 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-020-00119-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Retinoblastoma (RB) is a pediatric retinal tumor that overexpresses the ganglioside GD2. Although it is treatable in patients with early diagnosis, patients may lose one or two eyes. We generated GD2-specific chimeric antigen receptor T lymphocytes (GD2.CAR-Ts) and locally delivered them to mice with an in-situ grafting RB. When used in combination with the local release of interleukin (IL)-15 and an injectable hydrogel, we showed that GD2.CAR-Ts successfully eliminate RB tumor cells without impairment of the mouse vision.
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14
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Li H, Lian L, Liu B, Chen Y, Yang J, Jian S, Zhou J, Xu Y, Ma X, Qu J, Hou L. KIT ligand protects against both light-induced and genetic photoreceptor degeneration. eLife 2020; 9:51698. [PMID: 32242818 PMCID: PMC7170656 DOI: 10.7554/elife.51698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor degeneration is a major cause of blindness and a considerable health burden during aging but effective therapeutic or preventive strategies have not so far become readily available. Here, we show in mouse models that signaling through the tyrosine kinase receptor KIT protects photoreceptor cells against both light-induced and inherited retinal degeneration. Upon light damage, photoreceptor cells upregulate Kit ligand (KITL) and activate KIT signaling, which in turn induces nuclear accumulation of the transcription factor NRF2 and stimulates the expression of the antioxidant gene Hmox1. Conversely, a viable Kit mutation promotes light-induced photoreceptor damage, which is reversed by experimental expression of Hmox1. Furthermore, overexpression of KITL from a viral AAV8 vector prevents photoreceptor cell death and partially restores retinal function after light damage or in genetic models of human retinitis pigmentosa. Hence, application of KITL may provide a novel therapeutic avenue for prevention or treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huirong Li
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lili Lian
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jinglei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shuhui Jian
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiajia Zhou
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ying Xu
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyin Ma
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jia Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ling Hou
- Laboratory of Developmental Cell Biology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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15
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Shu G, Qiu Y, Hao J, Fu Q, Deng X. γ-Oryzanol alleviates acetaminophen-induced liver injury: roles of modulating AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways. Food Funct 2020; 10:6858-6872. [PMID: 31584590 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo01808e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is a major cause of drug-induced liver injury worldwide. Our current study was performed to assess the potential protective effects of γ-oryzanol (ORY) on APAP-induced liver injury in mice and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. We unveiled that ORY alleviated the APAP-induced death of HL-7702 hepatocytes in vitro and liver injury in mice. Moreover, ORY promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, increased the expressions of Nrf2-downstream antioxidative enzymes, including HO-1, NQO1, GCLC, and GCLM, and thereby restrained APAP-induced oxidative stress in hepatocytes. Moreover, ORY modulated the AMPK/GSK3β axis that acts upstream of Nrf2 in hepatocytes. Compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK, prevented the ORY-mediated activation of Nrf2 and protection against APAP toxicity in HL-7702 hepatocytes. Additionally, in the liver of mice receiving APAP, ORY suppressed the nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit, downregulated the expressions of iNOS and COX-2, and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NO. Taken together, our findings revealed that ORY is capable of ameliorating APAP-induced liver injury. The modulation of AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways is implicated in the hepatoprotective activity of ORY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangwen Shu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
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16
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Rodriguez-Estevez L, Asokan P, Borrás T. Transduction optimization of AAV vectors for human gene therapy of glaucoma and their reversed cell entry characteristics. Gene Ther 2019; 27:127-142. [PMID: 31611639 PMCID: PMC7153980 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-019-0105-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The trabecular meshwork (TM) of the eye is responsible for maintaining physiological intraocular pressure (IOP). Dysfunction of this tissue results in elevated IOP, subsequent optic nerve damage and glaucoma, the world’s leading cause of irreversible blindness. IOP regulation by delivering candidate TM genes would offer an enormous clinical advantage to the current daily-drops/surgery treatment. Initially, we showed that a double-stranded AAV2 (scAAV2) transduced the human TM very efficiently, while its single-stranded form (ssAAV2) did not. Here, we quantified transduction and entry of single- and double-strand serotypes 1, 2.5, 5, 6, 8, and 9 in primary, single individual-derived human TM cells (HTM). scAAV2 exhibited highest transduction in all individuals, distantly followed by scAAV2.5, scAAV6, and scAAV5. Transduction of scAAV1, scAAV8, and scAAV9 was negligible. None of the ssAAV serotypes transduced, but their cell entries were significantly higher than those of their corresponding scAAV. Tyrosine scAAV2 capsid mutants increased transduction in HTM cultured cells and all TM-outflow layers of perfused postmortem human eyes. These studies provide the first serotype optimization for gene therapy of glaucoma in humans. They further reveal biological differences between the AAV forms in HTM cells, whose understanding could contribute to the development of gene therapy of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rodriguez-Estevez
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Priyadarsini Asokan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Teresa Borrás
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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17
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Wang K, Zheng M, Lester KL, Han Z. Light-induced Nrf2 -/- mice as atrophic age-related macular degeneration model and treatment with nanoceria laden injectable hydrogel. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14573. [PMID: 31601909 PMCID: PMC6787253 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51151-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated oxidative stress and associated reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation are hallmarks in the induction and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By exposing nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) knockout (Nrf2-/-) mice to mild white light, we were able to generate a new dry-AMD like murine model to the study. This animal model developed phenotypes of photoreceptor degeneration, retinal function impairment, ROS accumulation, and inflammation reaction in a relatively shorter time. In the treatment of this animal model we utilized an antioxidative and water soluble nanoparticle known as glycol chitosan coated cerium oxide nanoparticles (GCCNP). The delivery of GCCNP protected retina against progressive retinal oxidative damage. Further combination of GCCNP with alginate-gelatin based injectable hydrogel provided synergistic antioxidant effects and achieved a more rapid recovery of the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor cells. This combined treatment technique has the potential to translate into a clinical intervention for the treatment of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Lee Lester
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Zongchao Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Carolina Institute for Nano Medicine, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Division of Pharmacoengineering & Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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18
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Chen B, Aredo B, Zhu Y, Ding Y, Xin-Zhao C, Ufret-Vincenty RL. A Mouse Model of Retinal Recovery From Photo-Oxidative/Photo-Inflammatory Injury: Nrf2, SOD1, DJ-1, and Parkin Are Not Essential to Recovery. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:1165-1174. [PMID: 30908580 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine if there is structural and functional recovery of the retina from light induced retinal degeneration, and to evaluate the role of the oxidative stress response elements Nrf2, SOD1, DJ-1, and Parkin in such a recovery process. Methods Eyes from C57BL/6J (B6J) mice and from oxidative stress response-deficient strains of mice were treated with intense light using the fundus camera-delivered light-induced retinal degeneration (FCD-LIRD) model. Fundus photographs, optical coherence tomography (OCT) images, and electroretinography (ERG) responses were obtained before the injury, during the "maximal injury phase" (days 4-7) and during the "recovery phase" (days 14-16) post light exposure and were evaluated for retinal damage and assessed for evidence of recovery from the injury. Results We demonstrate that mice treated with a sub-lethal FCD-LIRD protocol show an initial acute retina injury phase peaking between days 4 to 7 followed by a recovery phase in which the outer retinal thickness/volume and retinal function partially recover. These observations are reproduced in B6J mice and in mice lacking oxidative stress response enzymes (SOD1, DJ-1, and Parkin) or the oxidative stress response master regulator Nrf2. Conclusions Our data indicate that retinal recovery from injury can proceed via pathways that are independent from the common oxidative stress response elements Nrf2, SOD1, DJ-1, and Parkin. Furthermore, the model of retinal recovery from injury that we describe here mimics changes seen in a variety of clinical entities and may provide an excellent platform for dissecting general pathways of retinal recovery from sub-lethal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States.,Permanent Address: Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bogale Aredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Yuanfei Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Yi Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Cynthia Xin-Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
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19
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Targeting Mitochondrial Defects to Increase Longevity in Animal Models of Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1134:89-110. [PMID: 30919333 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-12668-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Bioenergetic homeostasis is a vital process maintaining cellular health and has primary importance in neuronal cells due to their high energy demand markedly at synapses. Mitochondria, the metabolic hubs of the cells, are the organelles responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP by using nutrients and oxygen. Defects in mitochondrial homeostasis result in energy deprivation and can lead to disrupted neuronal functions. Mitochondrial defects adversely contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Mitochondrial defects not only include reduced ATP levels but also increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to cellular damage. Here, we detail the mechanisms that lead to neuronal pathologies involving mitochondrial defects. Furthermore, we discuss how to target these mitochondrial defects in order to have beneficial effects as novel and complementary therapeutic avenues in neurodegenerative diseases. The critical evaluation of these strategies and their potential outcome can pave the way for finding novel therapies for neurodegenerative pathologies.
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20
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Trujillo-Gonzalez I, Friday WB, Munson CA, Bachleda A, Weiss ER, Alam NM, Sha W, Zeisel SH, Surzenko N. Low availability of choline in utero disrupts development and function of the retina. FASEB J 2019; 33:9194-9209. [PMID: 31091977 PMCID: PMC6662989 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201900444r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adequate supply of choline, an essential nutrient, is necessary to support proper brain development. Whether prenatal choline availability plays a role in development of the visual system is currently unknown. In this study, we addressed the role of in utero choline supply for the development and later function of the retina in a mouse model. We lowered choline availability in the maternal diet during pregnancy and assessed proliferative and differentiation properties of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) in the developing prenatal retina, as well as visual function in adult offspring. We report that low choline availability during retinogenesis leads to persistent retinal cytoarchitectural defects, ranging from focal lesions with displacement of retinal neurons into subretinal space to severe hypocellularity and ultrastructural defects in photoreceptor organization. We further show that low choline availability impairs timely differentiation of retinal neuronal cells, such that the densities of early-born retinal ganglion cells, amacrine and horizontal cells, as well as cone photoreceptor precursors, are reduced in low choline embryonic d 17.5 retinas. Maintenance of higher proportions of RPCs that fail to exit the cell cycle underlies aberrant neuronal differentiation in low choline embryos. Increased RPC cell cycle length, and associated reduction in neurofibromin 2/Merlin protein, an upstream regulator of the Hippo signaling pathway, at least in part, explain aberrant neurogenesis in low choline retinas. Furthermore, we find that animals exposed to low choline diet in utero exhibit a significant degree of intraindividual variation in vision, characterized by marked functional discrepancy between the 2 eyes in individual animals. Together, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that choline availability plays an essential role in the regulation of temporal progression of retinogenesis and provide evidence for the importance of adequate supply of choline for proper development of the visual system.-Trujillo-Gonzalez, I., Friday, W. B., Munson, C. A., Bachleda, A., Weiss, E. R., Alam, N. M., Sha, W., Zeisel, S. H., Surzenko, N. Low availability of choline in utero disrupts development and function of the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isis Trujillo-Gonzalez
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Walter B. Friday
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carolyn A. Munson
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amelia Bachleda
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ellen R. Weiss
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nazia M. Alam
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Visual Restoration, Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, New York, USA
| | - Wei Sha
- Bioinformatics Services Division, University of North Carolina–Charlotte, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven H. Zeisel
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Natalia Surzenko
- Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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21
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Xi G, Wai C, Clemmons D. Inhibition of Aberrant IGF-I Signaling in Diabetic Male Rat Retina Prevents and Reverses Changes of Diabetic Retinopathy. J Diabetes Res 2019; 2019:6456032. [PMID: 31049357 PMCID: PMC6458945 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6456032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperglycemia results in inhibition of cleavage of integrin-associated protein (IAP) thereby allowing it to bind to SHPS-1 which results in pathophysiologic changes in endothelial function. This study determined if an anti-rat IAP antibody directed against the SHPS-1 binding site which disrupts IAP/SHPS-1 association could inhibit these pathophysiologic changes. The anti-IAP antibody inhibited IGF-I-stimulated SHPS-1, p52Shc, MAP kinase phosphorylation, and proliferation in endothelial cells. To determine if it could reverse established pathophysiologic changes in vivo, this antibody or normal rat IgG F(ab)2 was injected intraperitoneally for 6 weeks into rats that had diabetes for 4 weeks. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed that retinal thickness increased at 4 weeks and this increase was maintained in rats treated with the control antibody for an additional 6 weeks. The increase was reversed by anti-IAP antibody treatment (84.6 ± 2.0 compared to 92.3 ± 2.5 μm, p < 0.01). This value was similar to nondiabetic animals (82.2 ± 1.6 μm, p, NS). The anti-IAP antibody also decreased retinal vascular permeability (0.62 ± 0.12 vs. 0.96 ± 0.25%/g/h, p < 0.001). To determine if it was effective after local injection, this antibody or control was administered via intravitreal injection. After 3 weeks, retinal thickness increased to 6.4 ± 2.8% in diabetic rats, and IAP antibody treatment prevented this increase (0.8 ± 2.5%, p < 0.01). It also prevented the increase of retinal vascular permeability (0.92 ± 0.62 vs. 1.63 ± 0.99%/g/h, p < 0.001). Biochemical analyses of retinal extracts showed that the anti-IAP antibody inhibited IAP/SHPS-1 association and SHPS-1 phosphorylation. This resulted in inhibition of AKT activation and VEGF synthesis in the retina: changes associated with increased vascular permeability. We conclude the anti-rat IAP antibody disrupts IAP/SHPS-1 association and attenuates aberrant IGF-I signaling thereby preventing or reversing the progression of retinal pathophysiological changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Xi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill NC 27599, USA
| | - Christine Wai
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill NC 27599, USA
| | - David Clemmons
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill NC 27599, USA
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22
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Santiago CP, Keuthan CJ, Boye SL, Boye SE, Imam AA, Ash JD. A Drug-Tunable Gene Therapy for Broad-Spectrum Protection against Retinal Degeneration. Mol Ther 2018; 26:2407-2417. [PMID: 30078764 PMCID: PMC6171322 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerations are a large cluster of diseases characterized by the irreversible loss of light-sensitive photoreceptors that impairs the vision of 9.1 million people in the US. An attractive treatment option is to use gene therapy to deliver broad-spectrum neuroprotective factors. However, this approach has had limited clinical translation because of the inability to control transgene expression. To address this problem, we generated an adeno-associated virus vector named RPF2 that was engineered to express domains of leukemia inhibitory factor fused to the destabilization domain of bacterial dihydrofolate reductase. Fusion proteins containing the destabilization domain are degraded in mammalian cells but can be stabilized with the binding of the drug trimethoprim. Our data show that expression levels of RPF2 are tightly regulated by the dose of trimethoprim and can be reversed by trimethoprim withdrawal. We further show that stabilized RPF2 can protect photoreceptors and prevent blindness in treated mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton P Santiago
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Casey J Keuthan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sanford L Boye
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Shannon E Boye
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Aisha A Imam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - John D Ash
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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23
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McDougald DS, Dine KE, Zezulin AU, Bennett J, Shindler KS. SIRT1 and NRF2 Gene Transfer Mediate Distinct Neuroprotective Effects Upon Retinal Ganglion Cell Survival and Function in Experimental Optic Neuritis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:1212-1220. [PMID: 29494741 PMCID: PMC5839257 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-22972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Optic neuritis is a condition defined by autoimmune-mediated demyelination of the optic nerve and death of retinal ganglion cells. SIRT1 and NRF2 stimulate anti-inflammatory mechanisms and have previously demonstrated therapeutic value in preclinical models of neurodegenerative disease. Here we investigated the neuroprotective potential of SIRT1 or NRF2 gene transfer using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis. Methods C57Bl/6J mice were administered intravitreal doses of AAV2 vectors and immunized to induce EAE symptoms. Visual function was examined by recording the optokinetic response (OKR) just prior to EAE induction and once every 7 days postinduction for 7 weeks. Retina and optic nerves were harvested to investigate retinal ganglion cell survival (immunolabeling with Brn3a antibodies); inflammation (hematoxylin and eosin staining); and demyelination (luxol fast blue staining). Results Animals modeling EAE demonstrate reduced visual acuity compared to sham-induced controls. Intravitreal delivery of AAV2-NRF2 did not preserve visual function. However, AAV2-SIRT1 mediated significant preservation of the OKR compared to AAV2-eGFP controls. Treatment with AAV2-NRF2 promoted RGC survival while AAV2-SIRT1 mediated an upward trend in protection compared to vehicle and AAV2-eGFP controls. Neither NRF2 nor SIRT1 gene augmentation was able to suppress optic nerve inflammation or demyelination. Conclusions AAV-mediated overexpression of NRF2 or SIRT1 within RGCs mediates distinct neuroprotective effects upon visual function and RGC survival. This study expands our understanding of SIRT1 and NRF2-mediated neuroprotection in the context of MS pathogenesis and optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin S McDougald
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F. M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Kimberly E Dine
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F. M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Alexandra U Zezulin
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F. M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Jean Bennett
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F. M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Kenneth S Shindler
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F. M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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miR-128 Is Implicated in Stress Responses by Targeting MAFG in Skeletal Muscle Cells. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017; 2017:9308310. [PMID: 29138682 PMCID: PMC5613631 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9308310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
MAFG (v-Maf avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog G) is a bZIP-type transcriptional regulator that belongs to the small MAF (sMAFs) protein family. By interacting with other bZIP transcription factors, sMAFs can form homo- and heterodimers governing either repressive or activating transcriptional functions. As heterodimeric partner of Nrf2, MAFG positively influences the ARE-dependent antioxidant/xenobiotic pathways, at least in condition of a correct MAFG:Nrf2 balance. MicroRNAs (miRs) participate to different regulatory networks being involved as fine-tuning regulators of gene expression. However, the connections between cellular surveillance to stresses mediated by MAFG:Nrf2 and miR regulations are not well understood. Here, we explored the impact of miR-128 in expression of genes related to stress response. Bioinformatic predictions coupled with functional analysis revealed the presence of miR-128 binding site in the 3′UTR of MAFG. Ectopic miR-128 expression correlated with reduced expression of endogenous MAFG-dependent genes and negatively affected ARE-mediated molecular phenotype based on Nrf2 activity. Indeed, miR-128 impairs redox-dependent pathways induced in response to oxidative stress. Moreover, in condition of hypoxia, MAFG induction correlated with reduced levels of miR-128. This lead to increased mRNA levels of HMOX-1 and x-CT for blunting stress. Overall, these findings identify MAFG as novel direct target of miR-128.
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