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Palanivel V, Gupta V, Chitranshi N, Tietz O, Vander Wall R, Blades R, Maha Thananthirige KP, Salkar A, Shen C, Mirzaei M, Gupta V, Graham SL, Basavarajappa D. Neuropeptide Y receptor activation preserves inner retinal integrity through PI3K/Akt signaling in a glaucoma mouse model. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae299. [PMID: 39114576 PMCID: PMC11305140 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY), an endogenous peptide composed of 36 amino acids, has been investigated as a potential therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases due to its neuroprotective attributes. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of NPY in a mouse model of glaucoma characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and progressive retinal ganglion cell degeneration. Elevated IOP in mice was induced through intracameral microbead injections, accompanied by intravitreal administration of NPY peptide. The results demonstrated that NPY treatment preserved both the structural and functional integrity of the inner retina and mitigated axonal damage and degenerative changes in the optic nerve under high IOP conditions. Further, NPY treatment effectively reduced inflammatory glial cell activation, as evidenced by decreased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and Iba-1. Notably, endogenous NPY expression and its receptors (NPY-Y1R and NPY-Y4R) levels were negatively affected in the retina under elevated IOP conditions. NPY treatment restored these changes to a significant extent. Molecular analysis revealed that NPY mediates its protective effects through the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of NPY in glaucoma treatment, underscoring its capacity to preserve retinal health, modulate receptor expression under stress, reduce neuroinflammation, and impart protection against axonal impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viswanthram Palanivel
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Ole Tietz
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Roshana Vander Wall
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Reuben Blades
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Kanishka Pushpitha Maha Thananthirige
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Akanksha Salkar
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Chao Shen
- Microscopy Unit, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Veer Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
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Thananthirige KPM, Chitranshi N, Basavarajappa D, Rajput R, Abbasi M, Palanivel V, Gupta VB, Paulo JA, Koronyo-Hamaoui M, Mirzaei M, Graham SL, Gupta V. Tau modulation through AAV9 therapy augments Akt/Erk survival signalling in glaucoma mitigating the retinal degenerative phenotype. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:89. [PMID: 38845058 PMCID: PMC11158005 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01804-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The microtubule-associated protein Tau is a key player in various neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Tauopathies, where its hyperphosphorylation disrupts neuronal microtubular lattice stability. Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting the retina, leads to irreversible vision loss by damaging retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure. Prior studies have indicated Tau expression and phosphorylation alterations in the retina in both AD and glaucoma, yet the causative or downstream nature of Tau protein changes in these pathologies remains unclear. This study investigates the impact of Tau protein modulation on retinal neurons under normal and experimental glaucoma conditions. Employing AAV9-mediated gene therapy for Tau overexpression and knockdown, both manipulations were found to adversely affect retinal structural and functional measures as well as neuroprotective Akt/Erk survival signalling in healthy conditions. In the experimental glaucoma model, Tau overexpression intensified inner retinal degeneration, while Tau silencing provided significant protection against these degenerative changes. These findings underscore the critical role of endogenous Tau protein levels in preserving retinal integrity and emphasize the therapeutic potential of targeting Tau in glaucoma pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Rashi Rajput
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Mojdeh Abbasi
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, 58183, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Viswanthram Palanivel
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Veer Bala Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Joao A Paulo
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maya Koronyo-Hamaoui
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Research Institute, 127 S. San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
- Division of Applied Cell Biology and Physiology, Departments of Neurology and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 127 S. San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
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Janciauskiene S, Lechowicz U, Pelc M, Olejnicka B, Chorostowska-Wynimko J. Diagnostic and therapeutic value of human serpin family proteins. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116618. [PMID: 38678961 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116618] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
SERPIN (serine proteinase inhibitors) is an acronym for the superfamily of structurally similar proteins found in animals, plants, bacteria, viruses, and archaea. Over 1500 SERPINs are known in nature, while only 37 SERPINs are found in humans, which participate in inflammation, coagulation, angiogenesis, cell viability, and other pathophysiological processes. Both qualitative or quantitative deficiencies or overexpression and/or abnormal accumulation of SERPIN can lead to diseases commonly referred to as "serpinopathies". Hence, strategies involving SERPIN supplementation, elimination, or correction are utilized and/or under consideration. In this review, we discuss relationships between certain SERPINs and diseases as well as putative strategies for the clinical explorations of SERPINs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Janciauskiene
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases and BREATH German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 26 Plocka St, Warsaw 01-138, Poland
| | - Urszula Lechowicz
- Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 26 Plocka St, Warsaw 01-138, Poland
| | - Magdalena Pelc
- Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 26 Plocka St, Warsaw 01-138, Poland
| | - Beata Olejnicka
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases and BREATH German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Joanna Chorostowska-Wynimko
- Department of Genetics and Clinical Immunology, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 26 Plocka St, Warsaw 01-138, Poland.
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Li X, Zuo Y, Lin X, Guo B, Jiang H, Guan N, Zheng H, Huang Y, Gu X, Yu B, Wang X. Develop Targeted Protein Drug Carriers through a High-Throughput Screening Platform and Rational Design. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401793. [PMID: 38804201 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Protein-based drugs offer advantages, such as high specificity, low toxicity, and minimal side effects compared to small molecule drugs. However, delivery of proteins to target tissues or cells remains challenging due to the instability, diverse structures, charges, and molecular weights of proteins. Polymers have emerged as a leading choice for designing effective protein delivery systems, but identifying a suitable polymer for a given protein is complicated by the complexity of both proteins and polymers. To address this challenge, a fluorescence-based high-throughput screening platform called ProMatch to efficiently collect data on protein-polymer interactions, followed by in vivo and in vitro experiments with rational design is developed. Using this approach to streamline polymer selection for targeted protein delivery, candidate polymers from commercially available options are identified and a polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB)-based system for delivering proteins to white adipose tissue as a treatment for obesity is developed. A branched polyethylenimine (bPEI)-based system for neuron-specific protein delivery to stimulate optic nerve regeneration is also developed. The high-throughput screening methodology expedites identification of promising polymer candidates for tissue-specific protein delivery systems, thereby providing a platform to develop innovative protein-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Li
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanming Zuo
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xurong Lin
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Binjie Guo
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Haohan Jiang
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Naiyu Guan
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hanyu Zheng
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, P. R. China
| | - Bin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, P. R. China
| | - Xuhua Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, P. R. China
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Kwak S, Hwang SK, Kwon MS, Chun BY. l-Serine Protects Murine Retinal Ganglion Cells from Oxidative Stress via Modulation of Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Curr Eye Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38771168 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2355661] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the effects of l-serine on mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal ganglion cells after exposure to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. METHODS Retinal ganglion cells obtained from C57BL6 mice (postnatal days 1-4) were purified and cultured. A cell viability assay was performed following exposure to H2O2-induced oxidative stress to assess the cytoprotective effects of l-serine on retinal ganglion cells. Flow cytometry with CellROX Deep Red and MitoSOX dyes was performed to analyze the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels, respectively. Staining with the fluorescent probe JC-1 was used to detect changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential. The oxygen consumption rate and Bioenergetic Health Index were used to evaluate mitochondrial respiration. RESULTS H2O2 treatment was found to induce mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal ganglion cells. Pretreatment with l-serine prevented cytotoxicity and significantly increased the viability of retinal ganglion cells following exposure to H2O2-induced oxidative stress (p < .05). l-Serine alleviated reactive oxygen species production in retinal ganglion cells following exposure to H2O2-induced oxidative (p < .05). Further, it successfully mitigated H2O2-induced mitochondrial depolarization in retinal ganglion cells (p < .05) and significantly increased the oxygen consumption rate and Bioenergetic Health Index in retinal ganglion cells following exposure to H2O2-induced oxidative stress (p < .05). CONCLUSION Pretreatment with l-serine protected retinal ganglion cells from H2O2-induced oxidative stress by improving mitochondrial function. The findings of the present study suggest that l-serine is a potential candidate for treatment of reactive oxygen species-related ocular diseases such as mitochondrial optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Kwak
- Astrogen Inc., Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Su-Kyeong Hwang
- Astrogen Inc., Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- School of Medicine, Brain Science & Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Mi Sun Kwon
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Bo Young Chun
- School of Medicine, Brain Science & Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
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Shi Y, Ye D, Cui K, Bai X, Fan M, Feng Y, Hu C, Xu Y, Huang J. Melatonin ameliorates retinal ganglion cell senescence and apoptosis in a SIRT1-dependent manner in an optic nerve injury model. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167053. [PMID: 38325588 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Melatonin is involved in exerting protective effects in aged-related and neurodegenerative diseases through a silent information regulator type 1 (SIRT1)-dependent pathway. However, little was known about the impact of melatonin on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) senescence and apoptosis following optic nerve crush (ONC). Thus, this study aimed to examine the effects of melatonin on RGC senescence and apoptosis after ONC and investigate the involvement of SIRT1 in this process. To study this, an ONC model was established. EX-527, an inhibitor of SIRT1, was injected intraperitoneally into mice. And melatonin was administrated abdominally into mice after ONC every day. Hematoxylin & eosin staining, retina flat-mounts and optical coherence tomography were used to evaluate the loss of retina cells/neurons. Pattern electroretinogram (p-ERG) was performed to evaluate the function of RGCs. Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to evaluate protein expression. SA-β-gal staining was employed to detect senescent cells. The results demonstrated that melatonin partially rescued the expression of SIRT1 in RGC 3 days after ONC. Additionally, melatonin administration partly rescued the decreased RGC number and ganglion cell complex thickness observed 14 days after ONC. Melatonin also suppressed ONC-induced senescence and apoptosis index. Furthermore, p-ERG showed that melatonin improved the amplitude of P50, N95 and N95/P50 following ONC. Importantly, the protective effects of melatonin were reversed when EX-527 was administered. In summary, this study revealed that melatonin attenuated RGC senescence and apoptosis through a SIRT1-dependent pathway after ONC. These findings provide valuable insights for the treatment of RGC senescence and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Dan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 151 Yanjiang Road, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Kaixuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xue Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Matthew Fan
- Yale College, Yale University, New Haven, CT 201942, United States
| | - Yanlin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Chenyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| | - Jingjing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China.
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Ciociola EC, Fernandez E, Kaufmann M, Klifto MR. Future directions of glaucoma treatment: emerging gene, neuroprotection, nanomedicine, stem cell, and vascular therapies. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024; 35:89-96. [PMID: 37910173 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000001016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to summarize current research on novel gene, stem cell, neuroprotective, nanomedicine, and vascular therapies for glaucoma. RECENT FINDINGS Gene therapy using viral vectors and siRNA have been shown to reduce intraocular pressure by altering outflow and production of aqueous humor, to reduce postsurgical fibrosis with few adverse effects, and to increase retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival in animal studies. Stem cells may treat glaucoma by replacing or stimulating proliferation of trabecular meshwork cells, thus restoring outflow facility. Stem cells can also serve a neuroprotective effect by differentiating into RGCs or preventing RGC loss via secretion of growth factors. Other developing neuroprotective glaucoma treatments which can prevent RGC death include nicotinamide, the NT-501 implant which secretes ciliary neurotrophic factor, and a Fas-L inhibitor which are now being tested in clinical trials. Recent studies on vascular therapy for glaucoma have focused on the ability of Rho Kinase inhibitors and dronabinol to increase ocular blood flow. SUMMARY Many novel stem cell, gene, neuroprotective, nanomedicine, and vascular therapies have shown promise in preclinical studies, but further clinical trials are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy in human glaucomatous eyes. Although likely many years off, future glaucoma therapy may take a multifaceted approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Meredith R Klifto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Chen M, Liu T, Li W, Li Y, Zhong P, Yan H, Kong J, Liang W. Empowering Cartilage Restructuring with Biodegradable Magnesium Doped-Silicon Based-Nanoplatforms: Sustained Delivery and Enhanced Differentiation Potential. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:491-506. [PMID: 38250188 PMCID: PMC10800145 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s446552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cartilage-related diseases, such as hypoplastic chondrodysplasia a rare genetic disorder that affects newborns, causing abnormal cartilage development and restricted skeletal growth. However, the development of effective treatment strategies for chondrodysplasia still faces significant challenges due to limitations in the controlled drug delivery, biocompatibility, and biodegradability of nanomedicines. Methods A biodegradable magnesium doped-silicon based-nanoplatforms based on silicon nanoparticles (MON) was constructed. Briefly, the MON was modified with sulfhydryl groups using MPTMS to form MOS. Further engineering of MOS was achieved by incorporating Mg2+ ions through the "dissolution-regrowth" method, resulting in MMOS. Ica was effectively loaded into the MMOS channels, and HA was anchored on the surface of MOS to obtain MMOS-Ica@HA nanoplatforms. Additionally, in vitro cell experiments and in vivo zebrafish embryo models were used to evaluate the effect of the nanoplatforms on cartilage differentiation or formation and the efficiency of treating chondrodysplasia. Results A series of characterization tests including TEM, SEM, DLS, XPS, EDX, and BET analysis validate the successful preparation of MOS-Ica@HA nanoplatforms. The prepared nanoplatforms show excellent dispersion and controllable drug release behavior. The cytotoxicity evaluation reveals the good biocompatibility of MOS-Ica@HA due to the sustained and controllable release of Ica. Importantly, the presence of Ica and Mg component in MOS-Ica@HA significantly promote chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs via the Smad5/HIF-1α signaling pathway. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the nanoplatforms improved chondrodysplasia by promoting cartilage differentiation and formation. Conclusion The findings suggest the potential application of the developed biodegradable MMOS-Ica@HA nanoplatforms with acceptable drug loading capacity and controlled drug release in chondrodysplasia treatment, which indicates a promising approach for the treatment of chondrodysplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Ultrasound; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Sports Assistive Devices of Guangdong, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, 510076, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingting Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Puxin Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huanchen Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyin Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weixiang Liang
- Department of Ultrasound; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology; The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, People’s Republic of China
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Wu S, Liu C, Tang J, Wu C, Zhang Q, Liu Z, Han J, Xue J, Lin J, Chen Y, Yang J, Zhuo Y, Li Y. Tafluprost promotes axon regeneration after optic nerve crush via Zn 2+-mTOR pathway. Neuropharmacology 2024; 242:109746. [PMID: 37832634 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109746] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether Tafluprost could promote optic nerve regeneration in mice after optic nerve crush (ONC) and determine the underlying molecular mechanism. METHODS Tafluprost was injected into the vitreous body immediately after ONC. The level of Zn2+ in the inner plexiform layer (IPL) of the retina was stained using autometallography (AMG). The number of survival retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) was determined via dual staining with RGC markers Tuj1 and RBPMS. Individual axons that regenerated to 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 mm were manually counted in the whole-mount optic nerve labeled by cholera toxin B fragment (CTB). Immunofluorescence and Western blot were performed to detect protein expression levels. Pattern electroretinogram was used to evaluate RGCs function. RESULTS Tafluprost promoted RGC survival in a dose-dependent manner with an optimal concentration of 1 μM. Tafluprost significantly decreased ZnT-3 expression and Zn2+ accumulation in the IPL of retina. Tafluprost stimulated intense axonal regeneration and maintained RGCs function compared to control. Mechanistically, Tafluprost and Zn2+ elimination treatment (TPEN or ZnT-3 deletion) can activate the mTOR pathway with an improved percentage of pS6+ RGCs in the retina. However, rapamycin, a specific inhibitor of the mTOR1, inhibited the activation of the mTOR pathway and abolished the regenerative effect mediated by Tafluprost. Tafluprost also inhibited the upregulation of p62, LC3 and Beclin-1, attenuated the overactivation of microglia/macrophages and downregulated the expression of TNFα and IL-1β. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that Tafluprost promoted axon regeneration via regulation of the Zn2+-mTOR pathway, and provide novel research directions for glaucomatous optic nerve injury mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siting Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Canying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jiahui Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Caiqing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jiaxu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jingfei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jicheng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yuze Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jinpeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Yiqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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10
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Basavarajappa D, Galindo-Romero C, Gupta V, Agudo-Barriuso M, Gupta VB, Graham SL, Chitranshi N. Signalling pathways and cell death mechanisms in glaucoma: Insights into the molecular pathophysiology. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101216. [PMID: 37856930 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex multifactorial eye disease manifesting in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and optic nerve degeneration, ultimately causing irreversible vision loss. Research in recent years has significantly enhanced our understanding of RGC degenerative mechanisms in glaucoma. It is evident that high intraocular pressure (IOP) is not the only contributing factor to glaucoma pathogenesis. The equilibrium of pro-survival and pro-death signalling pathways in the retina strongly influences the function and survival of RGCs and optic nerve axons in glaucoma. Molecular evidence from human retinal tissue analysis and a range of experimental models of glaucoma have significantly contributed to unravelling these mechanisms. Accumulating evidence reveals a wide range of molecular signalling pathways that can operate -either alone or via intricate networks - to induce neurodegeneration. The roles of several molecules, including neurotrophins, interplay of intracellular kinases and phosphates, caveolae and adapter proteins, serine proteases and their inhibitors, nuclear receptors, amyloid beta and tau, and how their dysfunction affects retinal neurons are discussed in this review. We further underscore how anatomical alterations in various animal models exhibiting RGC degeneration and susceptibility to glaucoma-related neuronal damage have helped to characterise molecular mechanisms in glaucoma. In addition, we also present different regulated cell death pathways that play a critical role in RGC degeneration in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Caridad Galindo-Romero
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) & Ophthalmology Department, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marta Agudo-Barriuso
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) & Ophthalmology Department, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Veer B Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
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11
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Basavarajappa D, Gupta V, Chitranshi N, Viswanathan D, Gupta V, Vander Wall R, Palanivel V, Mirzaei M, You Y, Klistorner A, Graham SL. Anti-inflammatory Effects of Siponimod in a Mouse Model of Excitotoxicity-Induced Retinal Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:7222-7237. [PMID: 37542647 PMCID: PMC10657799 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03535-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of permanent blindness worldwide and is characterized by neurodegeneration linked to progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death, axonal damage, and neuroinflammation. Glutamate excitotoxicity mediated through N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors plays a crucial role in glaucomatous RGC loss. Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors (S1PRs) are important mediators of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in the brain and the retina. Siponimod is an immunomodulatory drug for multiple sclerosis and is a selective modulator of S1PR subtypes 1 and 5 and has been shown to have beneficial effects on the central nervous system (CNS) in degenerative conditions. Our previous study showed that mice administered orally with siponimod protected inner retinal structure and function against acute NMDA excitotoxicity. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind these protective effects, we investigated the inflammatory pathways affected by siponimod treatment in NMDA excitotoxicity model. NMDA excitotoxicity resulted in the activation of glial cells coupled with upregulation of the inflammatory NF-kB pathway and increased expression of TNFα, IL1-β, and IL-6. Siponimod treatment significantly reduced glial activation and suppressed the pro-inflammatory pathways. Furthermore, NMDA-induced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and upregulation of neurotoxic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were significantly diminished with siponimod treatment. Our data demonstrated that siponimod induces anti-inflammatory effects via suppression of glial activation and inflammatory singling pathways that could protect the retina against acute excitotoxicity conditions. These findings provide insights into the anti-inflammatory effects of siponimod in the CNS and suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for neuroinflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Deepa Viswanathan
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Veer Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Roshana Vander Wall
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Viswanthram Palanivel
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Yuyi You
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Alexander Klistorner
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
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