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Zhu S, Chen L, Wang M, Zhang J, Chen G, Yao Y, Song S, Li T, Xu S, Yu Z, Shen B, Xu D, Chi ZL, Wu W. Schwann cell-derived extracellular vesicles as a potential therapy for retinal ganglion cell degeneration. J Control Release 2023; 363:641-656. [PMID: 37820984 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.10.012] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Optic neuropathy is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and is characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Several studies have demonstrated that transplantation of Schwann cells (SCs) is a promising candidate therapy for optic neuropathy and that intravitreally transplanted cells exert their effect via paracrine actions. Extracellular vesicle (EV)-based therapies are increasingly recognized as a potential strategy for cell replacement therapy. In this study, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective and regenerative effects of SC-EVs following optic nerve injury. We found that SC-EVs were internalized by RGCs in vitro and in vivo without any transfection reagents. Intriguingly, SC-EVs significantly enhanced the survival and axonal growth of primary RGCs in a coculture system. In a rat optic nerve crush model, SC-EVs mitigated RGC degeneration, prevented RGC loss, and preserved the thickness of the ganglion cell complex, as demonstrated by the statistically significant improvement in RGC counts and thickness measurements. Mechanistically, SC-EVs activated the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway and regulated reactive gliosis in ONC rats, which is crucial for RGC protection and axonal regeneration. These findings provide novel insights into the neuroprotective and regenerative properties of SC-EVs, suggesting their potential as a cell-free therapeutic strategy and natural biomaterials for neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senmiao Zhu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Lili Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Min Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Gang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yinghao Yao
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Shihan Song
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Tong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Shenglan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zhonghao Yu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Bingyan Shen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Duogang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zai-Long Chi
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.
| | - Wencan Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
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Sharif NA. Degeneration of retina-brain components and connections in glaucoma: Disease causation and treatment options for eyesight preservation. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 3:100037. [PMID: 36685768 PMCID: PMC9846481 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2022.100037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Eyesight is the most important of our sensory systems for optimal daily activities and overall survival. Patients who experience visual impairment due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are often those afflicted with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) which slowly robs them of their vision unless treatment is administered soon after diagnosis. The hallmark features of POAG and other forms of glaucoma are damaged optic nerve, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and atrophied RGC axons connecting to various brain regions associated with receipt of visual input from the eyes and eventual decoding and perception of images in the visual cortex. Even though increased IOP is the major risk factor for POAG, the disease is caused by many injurious chemicals and events that progress slowly within all components of the eye-brain visual axis. Lowering of IOP mitigates the damage to some extent with existing drugs, surgical and device implantation therapeutic interventions. However, since multifactorial degenerative processes occur during aging and with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, different forms of neuroprotective, nutraceutical and electroceutical regenerative and revitalizing agents and processes are being considered to combat these eye-brain disorders. These aspects form the basis of this short review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A. Sharif
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore,Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA,Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK,Department of Pharmacy Sciences, School of School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
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3
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Tools and Biomarkers for the Study of Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084287. [PMID: 35457104 PMCID: PMC9025234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is part of the central nervous system, its analysis may provide an idea of the health and functionality, not only of the retina, but also of the entire central nervous system, as has been shown in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s diseases. Within the retina, the ganglion cells (RGC) are the neurons in charge of processing and sending light information to higher brain centers. Diverse insults and pathological states cause degeneration of RGC, leading to irreversible blindness or impaired vision. RGCs are the measurable endpoints in current research into experimental therapies and diagnosis in multiple ocular pathologies, like glaucoma. RGC subtype classifications are based on morphological, functional, genetical, and immunohistochemical aspects. Although great efforts are being made, there is still no classification accepted by consensus. Moreover, it has been observed that each RGC subtype has a different susceptibility to injury. Characterizing these subtypes together with cell death pathway identification will help to understand the degenerative process in the different injury and pathological models, and therefore prevent it. Here we review the known RGC subtypes, as well as the diagnostic techniques, probes, and biomarkers for programmed and unprogrammed cell death in RGC.
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Chen L, Li W, Zhao Y, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Meng L. Isolation and application of a mixotrophic sulfide-oxidizing Cohnella thermotolerans LYH-2 strain to sewage sludge composting for hydrogen sulfide odor control. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 345:126557. [PMID: 34906701 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the influences of sulfide oxidizing bacteria on H2S odor control in sewage sludge composting, a facultative chemolithotroph strain was isolated and identified as Cohnella thermotolerans LYH-2. Strain LYH-2 decreased the initially added sulfide by 94.6% when glucose and NH4Cl were used as the optimal energy substrates. The biotransformation of sulfide substrates followed first-order reaction kinetics, and the highest degradation rate constant (0.0537 h-1) and bacterial dry weight (0.745 g/L) were obtained at 300 mg/L of initial sulfide. The C. thermotolerans strain was inoculated as the bacterial agent into the sewage sludge and rice husk composting in forced ventilation composting reactors for 25 d; the bacterial inoculation prolonged the thermophilic period by 2 d, decreased 35.4% of H2S odor emission, and accelerated the composting process compared to the control group. The results demonstrated that C. thermotolerans inoculants effectively controlled H2S emission and promoted maturity in sewage sludge composting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Weiguang Li
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China.
| | - Yi Zhao
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Yujie Zhou
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Shumei Zhang
- Institute of Microbiology, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150010, PR China
| | - Liqiang Meng
- Institute of Microbiology, Heilongjiang Academy of Sciences, Harbin 150010, PR China
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Sharif NA. Therapeutic Drugs and Devices for Tackling Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma, and Need for Neuroprotection and Cytoprotective Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:729249. [PMID: 34603044 PMCID: PMC8484316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.729249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the optic nerve and the death of associated retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), also known as glaucoma, is responsible for visual impairment and blindness in millions of people worldwide. The ocular hypertension (OHT) and the deleterious mechanical forces it exerts at the back of the eye, at the level of the optic nerve head/optic disc and lamina cribosa, is the only modifiable risk factor associated with glaucoma that can be treated. The elevated IOP occurs due to the inability of accumulated aqueous humor (AQH) to egress from the anterior chamber of the eye due to occlusion of the major outflow pathway, the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm’s canal (SC). Several different classes of pharmaceutical agents, surgical techniques and implantable devices have been developed to lower and control IOP. First-line drugs to promote AQH outflow via the uveoscleral outflow pathway include FP-receptor prostaglandin (PG) agonists (e.g., latanoprost, travoprost and tafluprost) and a novel non-PG EP2-receptor agonist (omidenepag isopropyl, Eybelis®). TM/SC outflow enhancing drugs are also effective ocular hypotensive agents (e.g., rho kinase inhibitors like ripasudil and netarsudil; and latanoprostene bunod, a conjugate of a nitric oxide donor and latanoprost). One of the most effective anterior chamber AQH microshunt devices is the Preserflo® microshunt which can lower IOP down to 10–13 mmHg. Other IOP-lowering drugs and devices on the horizon will be also discussed. Additionally, since elevated IOP is only one of many risk factors for development of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, a treatise of the role of inflammatory neurodegeneration of the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells and appropriate neuroprotective strategies to mitigate this disease will also be reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, CA, United States
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6
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Davis BM, Guo L, Ravindran N, Shamsher E, Baekelandt V, Mitchell H, Bharath AA, De Groef L, Cordeiro MF. Dynamic changes in cell size and corresponding cell fate after optic nerve injury. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21683. [PMID: 33303775 PMCID: PMC7730151 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77760-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying disease-specific patterns of retinal cell loss in pathological conditions has been highlighted by the emergence of techniques such as Detection of Apoptotic Retinal Cells and Adaptive Optics confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy which have enabled single-cell visualisation in vivo. Cell size has previously been used to stratify Retinal Ganglion Cell (RGC) populations in histological samples of optic neuropathies, and early work in this field suggested that larger RGCs are more susceptible to early loss than smaller RGCs. More recently, however, it has been proposed that RGC soma and axon size may be dynamic and change in response to injury. To address this unresolved controversy, we applied recent advances in maximising information extraction from RGC populations in retinal whole mounts to evaluate the changes in RGC size distribution over time, using three well-established rodent models of optic nerve injury. In contrast to previous studies based on sampling approaches, we examined the whole Brn3a-positive RGC population at multiple time points over the natural history of these models. The morphology of over 4 million RGCs was thus assessed to glean novel insights from this dataset. RGC subpopulations were found to both increase and decrease in size over time, supporting the notion that RGC cell size is dynamic in response to injury. However, this study presents compelling evidence that smaller RGCs are lost more rapidly than larger RGCs despite the dynamism. Finally, using a bootstrap approach, the data strongly suggests that disease-associated changes in RGC spatial distribution and morphology could have potential as novel diagnostic indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Davis
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
- Western Eye Hospital, ICORG, Imperial College London, London, NW1 5QH, UK
| | - Li Guo
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Nivedita Ravindran
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Ehtesham Shamsher
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hannah Mitchell
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, Ireland
| | - Anil A Bharath
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, UK
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 61, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
- Western Eye Hospital, ICORG, Imperial College London, London, NW1 5QH, UK.
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Zollet P, E.Yap T, Cordeiro MF. Detecting apoptosis as a clinical endpoint for proof of a clinical principle. Ophthalmologica 2020; 244:408-417. [DOI: 10.1159/000513584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The transparent eye media represent a window through which to observe changes occurring in the retina during pathological processes. In contrast to visualising the extent of neurodegenerative damage that has already occurred, imaging an active process such as apoptosis has the potential to report on disease progression and therefore the threat of irreversible functional loss in various eye and brain diseases. Early diagnosis in these conditions is an important unmet clinical need to avoid or delay irreversible sight loss. In this setting, apoptosis detection is a promising strategy with which to diagnose, provide prognosis, and monitor therapeutic response. Additionally, monitoring apoptosis in vitro and in vivo has been shown to be valuable for drug development in order to assess the efficacy of novel therapeutic strategies both in the pre-clinical and clinical setting. Detection of Apoptosing Retinal Cells (DARC) technology is to date the only tool of its kind to have been tested in clinical trials, with other new imaging techniques under investigation in the fields of neuroscience, ophthalmology and drug development. We summarize the transitioning of techniques detecting apoptosis from bench to bedside, along with the future possibilities they encase.
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Guo L, Davis BM, Ravindran N, Galvao J, Kapoor N, Haamedi N, Shamsher E, Luong V, Fico E, Cordeiro MF. Topical recombinant human Nerve growth factor (rh-NGF) is neuroprotective to retinal ganglion cells by targeting secondary degeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3375. [PMID: 32099056 PMCID: PMC7042238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60427-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Optic neuropathy is a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, and no effective treatment is currently available. Secondary degeneration is believed to be the major contributor to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death, the endpoint of optic neuropathy. Partial optic nerve transection (pONT) is an established model of optic neuropathy. Although the mechanisms of primary and secondary degeneration have been delineated in this model, until now how this is influenced by therapy is not well-understood. In this article, we describe a clinically translatable topical, neuroprotective treatment (recombinant human nerve growth factor, rh-NGF) predominantly targeting secondary degeneration in a pONT rat model. Topical application of rh-NGF twice daily for 3 weeks significantly improves RGC survival as shown by reduced RGC apoptosis in vivo and increased RGC population in the inferior retina, which is predominantly affected in this model by secondary degeneration. Topical rh-NGF also promotes greater axonal survival and inhibits astrocyte activity in the optic nerve. Collectively, these results suggest that topical rh-NGF exhibits neuroprotective effects on retinal neurons via influencing secondary degeneration process. As topical rh-NGF is already involved in early clinical trials, this highlights its potential in multiple indications in patients, including those affected by glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Guo
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Benjamin M Davis
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nivedita Ravindran
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joana Galvao
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neel Kapoor
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nasrin Haamedi
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ehtesham Shamsher
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vy Luong
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Fico
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma & Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom. .,Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Liu Y, Wang H. Peripheral nerve injury induced changes in the spinal cord and strategies to counteract/enhance the changes to promote nerve regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:189-198. [PMID: 31552884 PMCID: PMC6905333 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.265540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury leads to morphological, molecular and gene expression changes in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia, some of which have positive impact on the survival of neurons and nerve regeneration, while the effect of others is the opposite. It is crucial to take prompt measures to capitalize on the positive effects of these reactions and counteract the negative impact after peripheral nerve injury at the level of spinal cord, especially for peripheral nerve injuries that are severe, located close to the cell body, involve long distance for axons to regrow and happen in immature individuals. Early nerve repair, exogenous supply of neurotrophic factors and Schwann cells can sustain the regeneration inductive environment and enhance the positive changes in neurons. Administration of neurotrophic factors, acetyl-L-carnitine, N-acetyl-cysteine, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist MK-801 can help counteract axotomy-induced neuronal loss and promote regeneration, which are all time-dependent. Sustaining and reactivation of Schwann cells after denervation provides another effective strategy. FK506 can be used to accelerate axonal regeneration of neurons, especially after chronic axotomy. Exploring the axotomy-induced changes after peripheral nerve injury and applying protective and promotional measures in the spinal cord which help to retain a positive functional status for neuron cell bodies will inevitably benefit regeneration of the peripheral nerve and improve functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China; Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Huan Wang
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Yap T, Shamsher E, Guo L, Cordeiro M. Ophthalmic Research Lecture 2018: DARC as a Potential Surrogate Marker. Ophthalmic Res 2019; 63:1-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000500527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Shamsher E, Davis BM, Yap TE, Guo L, Cordeiro MF. Neuroprotection in glaucoma: old concepts, new ideas. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2019.1604222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ehtesham Shamsher
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Benjamin M. Davis
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London
| | - Timothy E. Yap
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Li Guo
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Maria Francesca Cordeiro
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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12
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Mesentier-Louro LA, Dodd R, Domizi P, Nobuta H, Wernig M, Wernig G, Liao YJ. Direct targeting of the mouse optic nerve for therapeutic delivery. J Neurosci Methods 2019; 313:1-5. [PMID: 30389488 PMCID: PMC10870831 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal models of optic nerve injury are often used to study central nervous system (CNS) degeneration and regeneration, and targeting the optic nerve is a powerful approach for axon-protective or remyelination therapy. However, the experimental delivery of drugs or cells to the optic nerve is rarely performed because injections into this structure are difficult in small animals, especially in mice. NEW METHOD We investigated and developed methods to deliver drugs or cells to the mouse optic nerve through 3 different routes: a) intraorbital, b) through the optic foramen and c) transcranial. RESULTS The methods targeted different parts of the mouse optic nerve: intraorbital proximal (intraorbital), intracranial middle (optic-foramen) or intracranial distal (transcranial) portion. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Most existing methods target the optic nerve indirectly. For instance, intravitreally delivered cells often cannot cross the inner limiting membrane to reach retinal neurons and optic nerve axons. Systemic delivery, eye drops and intraventricular injections do not always successfully target the optic nerve. Intraorbital and transcranial injections into the optic nerve or chiasm have been performed but these methods have not been well described. We approached the optic nerve with more selective and precise targeting than existing methods. CONCLUSIONS We successfully targeted the murine optic nerve intraorbitally, through the optic foramen, and transcranially. Of all methods, the injection through the optic foramen is likely the most innovative and fastest. These methods offer additional approaches for therapeutic intervention to be used by those studying white matter damage and axonal regeneration in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Dodd
- Department of Neurosurgery Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Pablo Domizi
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Hiroko Nobuta
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Marius Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Gerlinde Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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Liao H, Zhu Z, Peng Y. Potential Utility of Retinal Imaging for Alzheimer's Disease: A Review. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:188. [PMID: 29988470 PMCID: PMC6024140 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The ensuing upward shift in demographic distribution due to the increase in life expectancy has resulted in a rising prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The heavy public burden of AD, along with the urgent to prevent and treat the disease before the irreversible damage to the brain, calls for a sensitive and specific screening technology to identify high-risk individuals before cognitive symptoms arise. Even though current modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker, showed their potential clinical uses in early detection of AD, the high cost, narrow isotope availability of PET probes and invasive characteristics of CSF biomarker limited their broad utility. Therefore, additional tools for detection of AD are needed. As a projection of the central nervous system (CNS), the retina has been described as a "window to the brain" and a novel marker for AD. Low cost, easy accessibility and non-invasive features make retina tests suitable for large-scale population screening and investigations of preclinical AD. Furthermore, a number of novel approaches in retina imaging, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), have been developed and made it possible to visualize changes in the retina at a very fine resolution. In this review, we outline the background for AD to accelerate the adoption of retina imaging for the diagnosis and management of AD in clinical practice. Then, we focus on recent findings on the application of retina imaging to investigate AD and provide suggestions for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Liao
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoting Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Peng
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Yap TE, Donna P, Almonte MT, Cordeiro MF. Real-Time Imaging of Retinal Ganglion Cell Apoptosis. Cells 2018; 7:E60. [PMID: 29914056 PMCID: PMC6025611 DOI: 10.3390/cells7060060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Monitoring real-time apoptosis in-vivo is an unmet need of neurodegeneration science, both in clinical and research settings. For patients, earlier diagnosis before the onset of symptoms provides a window of time in which to instigate treatment. For researchers, being able to objectively monitor the rates of underlying degenerative processes at a cellular level provides a biomarker with which to test novel therapeutics. The DARC (Detection of Apoptosing Retinal Cells) project has developed a minimally invasive method using fluorescent annexin A5 to detect rates of apoptosis in retinal ganglion cells, the key pathological process in glaucoma. Numerous animal studies have used DARC to show efficacy of novel, pressure-independent treatment strategies in models of glaucoma and other conditions where retinal apoptosis is reported, including Alzheimer’s disease. This may forge exciting new links in the clinical science of treating both cognitive and visual decline. Human trials are now underway, successfully demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the technique to differentiate patients with progressive neurodegeneration from healthy individuals. We review the current perspectives on retinal ganglion cell apoptosis, the way in which this can be imaged, and the exciting advantages that these future methods hold in store.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy E Yap
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK.
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London NW1 5QH, UK.
| | - Piero Donna
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London NW1 5QH, UK.
| | - Melanie T Almonte
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London NW1 5QH, UK.
| | - Maria Francesca Cordeiro
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK.
- The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London NW1 5QH, UK.
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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15
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Yang E, Al-Mugheiry TS, Normando EM, Cordeiro MF. Real-Time Imaging of Retinal Cell Apoptosis by Confocal Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy and Its Role in Glaucoma. Front Neurol 2018; 9:338. [PMID: 29867744 PMCID: PMC5962659 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the world. It is characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), mainly through the process of apoptosis. Glaucoma patients often come to clinical attention when irreversible loss of visual function has been already established; therefore, early recognition of RGC apoptosis is inordinately important in disease prevention. The novel technology called Detection of Apoptosing Retinal Cells (DARC) allows real-time in vivo quantification of apoptosing cells through the use of a fluorescent biomarker and a confocal scanning ophthalmoscope. A recent Phase I clinical trial has evaluated the safety of DARC and its ability to detect retinal apoptosis in glaucoma patients and healthy volunteers. Results suggest that DARC may have potential in the early detection of glaucoma, which could help alleviate the medical, social, and economic burden associated with this blinding condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Yang
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Toby S Al-Mugheiry
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk, United Kingdom
| | - Eduardo M Normando
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Insitute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria F Cordeiro
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Insitute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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16
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Abstract
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible visual loss, which has been estimated to affect 3.5% of those over 40 years old and projected to affect a total of 112 million people by 2040. Such a dramatic increase in affected patients demonstrates the need for continual improvement in the way we diagnose and treat this condition. Annexin A5 is a 36 kDa protein that is ubiquitously expressed in humans and is studied as an indicator of apoptosis in several fields. This molecule has a high calcium-dependent affinity for phosphatidylserine, a cell membrane phospholipid externalized to the outer cell membrane in early apoptosis. The DARC (Detection of Apoptosing Retinal Cells) project uses fluorescently-labelled annexin A5 to assess glaucomatous degeneration, the inherent process of which is the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells. Furthermore, this project has conducted investigation of the retinal apoptosis in the neurodegenerative conditions of the eye and brain. In this present study, we summarized the use of annexin A5 as a marker of apoptosis in the eye. We also relayed the progress of the DARC project, developing real-time imaging of retinal ganglion cell apoptosis in vivo from the experimental models of disease and identifying mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and its treatments, which has been applied to the first human clinical trials. DARC has potential as a biomarker in neurodegeneration, especially in the research of novel treatments, and could be a useful tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma.
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17
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Huang W, Hu F, Wang M, Gao F, Xu P, Xing C, Sun X, Zhang S, Wu J. Comparative analysis of retinal ganglion cell damage in three glaucomatous rat models. Exp Eye Res 2018; 172:112-122. [PMID: 29605491 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death is the major cause of retinal nerve fiber layer thinning and visual field defects in glaucoma. The purpose of this study was to compare RGC damage in three commonly used glaucomatous rat models. These models were generated by (i) injection of paramagnetic microbeads into the anterior chamber; (ii) cauterization of three episcleral veins of the eye (EVC); and (iii) intravitreal injection of N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured with a rebound tonometer at 6, 12, and 18 h; 1, 3, and 5 days; and 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. We measured the RGC density of the three glaucomatous models in the flat-mounted retina by immunofluorescence. Subsequently, the thicknesses of both retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner retinal layer (IRL) were analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin staining of retinal sections. The visual functional deterioration was evaluated by measurement of the photopic negative response (PhNR) of different models. The IOP averages during three weeks were 22.35 ± 1.23 mmHg (mean ± SD), 20.91 ± 1.97 mmHg, and 9.67 ± 0.42 mmHg, with 50.2%, 44.00% and 66.76% RGC loss by 8 weeks, respectively, in the microbead group, EVC group and NMDA group. Decreased thickness in the GCL was observed in all three groups, while the thickness of IRL and ONL was decreased in the EVC and NMDA groups. Significant positive correlation of RGC loss rate with ΔIOP integral were demonstrated in both microbead and EVC models. Moreover, we found that the PhNR amplitudes declined early by the first day in the NMDA group, 5 days later in the EVC group and by 7 days in the microbead group. Each glaucomatous rat model has its strength and weakness. Our study provides detailed data for choosing suitable animal models to advance glaucoma research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanjing Huang
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangyuan Hu
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wang
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fengjuan Gao
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Xu
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Xing
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenghai Zhang
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jihong Wu
- From the Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China.
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18
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Sharif NA. iDrugs and iDevices Discovery Research: Preclinical Assays, Techniques, and Animal Model Studies for Ocular Hypotensives and Neuroprotectants. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2018; 34:7-39. [PMID: 29323613 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2017.0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovery ophthalmic research is centered around delineating the molecular and cellular basis of ocular diseases and finding and exploiting molecular and genetic pathways associated with them. From such studies it is possible to determine suitable intervention points to address the disease process and hopefully to discover therapeutics to treat them. An investigational new drug (IND) filing for a new small-molecule drug, peptide, antibody, genetic treatment, or a device with global health authorities requires a number of preclinical studies to provide necessary safety and efficacy data. Specific regulatory elements needed for such IND-enabling studies are beyond the scope of this article. However, to enhance the overall data packages for such entities and permit high-quality foundation-building publications for medical affairs, additional research and development studies are always desirable. This review aims to provide examples of some target localization/verification, ocular drug discovery processes, and mechanistic and portfolio-enhancing exploratory investigations for candidate drugs and devices for the treatment of ocular hypertension and glaucomatous optic neuropathy (neurodegeneration of retinal ganglion cells and their axons). Examples of compound screening assays, use of various technologies and techniques, deployment of animal models, and data obtained from such studies are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- 1 Global Alliances & External Research , Santen Incorporated, Emeryville, California.,2 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University , Houston, Texas.,3 Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center , Fort Worth, Texas
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19
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Sharif NA. Glaucomatous optic neuropathy treatment options: the promise of novel therapeutics, techniques and tools to help preserve vision. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:1145-1150. [PMID: 30028313 PMCID: PMC6065230 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.235017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral vision loss followed by “tunnel vision” and eventual irreversible blindness is the fate of patients afflicted by various forms of glaucoma including primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normotensive glaucoma (NTG). These complex and heterogeneous diseases are characterized by extensive death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) accompanied by retraction and severance of their axonal connections to the brain and thus damage to and thinning of the optic nerve. Since patients suffering from this glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON) first notice visual impairment when they have lost > 40% of their RGCs, early diagnosis is the key to retard the progression of glaucoma. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), low cerebrospinal and/or low intracranial fluid pressure, advancing age, and ethnicity are major risk factors associated with POAG. However, retinal vascular abnormalities and a high sensitivity of RGCs and optic nerve head components to neurotoxic, inflammatory, oxidative and mechanical insults also contribute to vision loss in POAG/GON. Current treatment modalities for POAG and NTG involve lowering IOP using topical ocular drugs, combination drug products, and surgical interventions. Two recently approved multi-pharmacophoric drugs (e.g., rho kinase inhibitor, Netarsudil; a drug conjugate, Latanoprostene Bunod) and novel aqueous humor drainage devices (iStent and CyPass) are also gaining acceptance for treating POAG/ NTG. Neuroprotective and regenerative agents, coupled with electroceutical, mechanical support systems, stem cell transplantation and gene therapy are emerging therapeutics on the horizon to help combat GON. The latter techniques and approaches hope to rejuvenate RGCs and repair the optic nerve structures, thereby providing a gain of function of the visual system for the glaucoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Department of Global Alliances & External Research, Global Ophthalmology Research & Development, Santen Incorporated, Emeryville, CA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX; Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska USA; Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK
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20
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Sánchez-López E, Egea MA, Davis BM, Guo L, Espina M, Silva AM, Calpena AC, Souto EMB, Ravindran N, Ettcheto M, Camins A, García ML, Cordeiro MF. Memantine-Loaded PEGylated Biodegradable Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Glaucoma. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:1701808. [PMID: 29154484 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201701808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease associated with retinal ganglion cells (RGC) loss. Increasing reports of similarities in glaucoma and other neurodegenerative conditions have led to speculation that therapies for brain neurodegenerative disorders may also have potential as glaucoma therapies. Memantine is an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist approved for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Glutamate-induced excitotoxicity is implicated in glaucoma and NMDA receptor antagonism is advocated as a potential strategy for RGC preservation. This study describes the development of a topical formulation of memantine-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles (MEM-NP) and investigates the efficacy of this formulation using a well-established glaucoma model. MEM-NPs <200 nm in diameter and incorporating 4 mg mL-1 of memantine were prepared with 0.35 mg mL-1 localized to the aqueous interior. In vitro assessment indicated sustained release from MEM-NPs and ex vivo ocular permeation studies demonstrated enhanced delivery. MEM-NPs were additionally found to be well tolerated in vitro (human retinoblastoma cells) and in vivo (Draize test). Finally, when applied topically in a rodent model of ocular hypertension for three weeks, MEM-NP eye drops were found to significantly (p < 0.0001) reduce RGC loss. These results suggest that topical MEM-NP is safe, well tolerated, and, most promisingly, neuroprotective in an experimental glaucoma model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Sánchez-López
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
- Biomedical Research and Networking Center in Neurodegenerative diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, 28031, Spain
| | - Maria Antonia Egea
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Benjamin Michael Davis
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Li Guo
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Marta Espina
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Amelia Maria Silva
- Department of Biology and Environment, School of Life and Environmental sciences (ECVA, UTAD), and Centre for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB-UTAD), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta de Prados, 5001-801, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Calpena
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Eliana Maria Barbosa Souto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC) and REQUIMTE/Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Polo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nivedita Ravindran
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Biomedical Research and Networking Center in Neurodegenerative diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, 28031, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Antonio Camins
- Biomedical Research and Networking Center in Neurodegenerative diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, 28031, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa García
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - Maria Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare Trust, London, UK
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21
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Cordeiro MF, Normando EM, Cardoso MJ, Miodragovic S, Jeylani S, Davis BM, Guo L, Ourselin S, A'Hern R, Bloom PA. Real-time imaging of single neuronal cell apoptosis in patients with glaucoma. Brain 2017; 140:1757-1767. [PMID: 28449038 PMCID: PMC5445254 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awx088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
See Herms and Schön (doi10.1093/brain/awx100) for a scientific commentary on this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK.,The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London NW1 5QH, UK
| | - Eduardo M Normando
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London NW1 5QH, UK
| | - M Jorge Cardoso
- Translational Imaging Group, Centre for Medical Image Computing, University College London, Wolfson House, Stephenson Way, London, NW1 2HE London, UK
| | - Serge Miodragovic
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK
| | - Seham Jeylani
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK
| | - Benjamin M Davis
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Li Guo
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Sebastien Ourselin
- Translational Imaging Group, Centre for Medical Image Computing, University College London, Wolfson House, Stephenson Way, London, NW1 2HE London, UK
| | | | - Philip A Bloom
- The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London NW1 5QH, UK.,The Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London NW1 5QH, UK
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22
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Davis BM, Tian K, Pahlitzsch M, Brenton J, Ravindran N, Butt G, Malaguarnera G, Normando EM, Guo L, Cordeiro MF. Topical Coenzyme Q10 demonstrates mitochondrial-mediated neuroprotection in a rodent model of ocular hypertension. Mitochondrion 2017; 36:114-123. [PMID: 28549843 PMCID: PMC5645575 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2017.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant with known neuroprotective activity. Its ocular effects when co-solubilised with α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) were evaluated. In vitro studies confirmed that CoQ10 was significantly protective in different retinal ganglion cell (RGC) models. In vivo studies in Adult Dark Agouti (DA) rats with unilateral surgically-induced ocular hypertension (OHT) treated with either CoQ10/TPGS micelles or TPGS vehicle twice daily for three weeks were performed, following which retinal cell health was assessed in vivo using DARC (Detection of Apoptotic Retinal Cells) and post-mortem with Brn3a histological assessment on whole retinal mounts. CoQ10/TPGS showed a significant neuroprotective effect compared to control with DARC (p<0.05) and Brn3 (p<0.01). Topical CoQ10 appears an effective therapy preventing RGC apoptosis and loss in glaucoma-related models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Michael Davis
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Kailin Tian
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Milena Pahlitzsch
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Brenton
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Nivedita Ravindran
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Gibran Butt
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Malaguarnera
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Eduardo M Normando
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom; Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Li Guo
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Department of Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom; Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
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23
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Genetic rescue models refute nonautonomous rod cell death in retinitis pigmentosa. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:5259-5264. [PMID: 28468800 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1615394114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease, in which the death of mutant rod photoreceptors leads secondarily to the non-cell autonomous death of cone photoreceptors. Gene therapy is a promising treatment strategy. Unfortunately, current methods of gene delivery treat only a fraction of diseased cells, yielding retinas that are a mosaic of treated and untreated rods, as well as cones. In this study, we created two RP mouse models to test whether dying, untreated rods negatively impact treated, rescued rods. In one model, treated and untreated rods were segregated. In the second model, treated and untreated rods were diffusely intermixed, and their ratio was controlled to achieve low-, medium-, or high-efficiency rescue. Analysis of these mosaic retinas demonstrated that rescued rods (and cones) survive, even when they are greatly outnumbered by dying photoreceptors. On the other hand, the rescued photoreceptors did exhibit long-term defects in their outer segments (OSs), which were less severe when more photoreceptors were treated. In summary, our study suggests that even low-efficiency gene therapy may achieve stable survival of rescued photoreceptors in RP patients, albeit with OS dysgenesis.
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Davis BM, Guo L, Brenton J, Langley L, Normando EM, Cordeiro MF. Towards maximising information extraction from rodent models of ocular disease. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2270. [PMID: 27336714 PMCID: PMC5143400 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B M Davis
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - L Guo
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - J Brenton
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - L Langley
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - E M Normando
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare Trust, London, UK
| | - M F Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research, Visual Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare Trust, London, UK
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Automatic quantitative analysis of experimental primary and secondary retinal neurodegeneration: implications for optic neuropathies. Cell Death Discov 2016. [DOI: 10.1038/cddiscovery.2016.31 ecollection 2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Automatic quantitative analysis of experimental primary and secondary retinal neurodegeneration: implications for optic neuropathies. Cell Death Discov 2016; 2:16031. [PMID: 27551521 PMCID: PMC4979431 DOI: 10.1038/cddiscovery.2016.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary neurodegeneration is thought to play an important role in the pathology of neurodegenerative disease, which potential therapies may target. However, the quantitative assessment of the degree of secondary neurodegeneration is difficult. The present study describes a novel algorithm from which estimates of primary and secondary degeneration are computed using well-established rodent models of partial optic nerve transection (pONT) and ocular hypertension (OHT). Brn3-labelled retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were identified in whole-retinal mounts from which RGC density, nearest neighbour distances and regularity indices were determined. The spatial distribution and rate of RGC loss were assessed and the percentage of primary and secondary degeneration in each non-overlapping segment was calculated. Mean RGC number (82 592±681) and RGC density (1695±23.3 RGC/mm2) in naïve eyes were comparable with previous studies, with an average decline in RGC density of 71±17 and 23±5% over the time course of pONT and OHT models, respectively. Spatial analysis revealed greatest RGC loss in the superior and central retina in pONT, but significant RGC loss in the inferior retina from 3 days post model induction. In comparison, there was no significant difference between superior and inferior retina after OHT induction, and RGC loss occurred mainly along the superior/inferior axis (~30%) versus the nasal–temporal axis (~15%). Intriguingly, a significant loss of RGCs was also observed in contralateral eyes in experimental OHT. In conclusion, a novel algorithm to automatically segment Brn3a-labelled retinal whole-mounts into non-overlapping segments is described, which enables automated spatial and temporal segmentation of RGCs, revealing heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of primary and secondary degenerative processes. This method provides an attractive means to rapidly determine the efficacy of neuroprotective therapies with implications for any neurodegenerative disorder affecting the retina.
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Tian K, Shibata-Germanos S, Pahlitzsch M, Cordeiro MF. Current perspective of neuroprotection and glaucoma. Clin Ophthalmol 2015; 9:2109-18. [PMID: 26635467 PMCID: PMC4646599 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s80445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide and is most notably characterized by progressive optic nerve atrophy and advancing loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The main concomitant factor is the elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Existing treatments are focused generally on lowering IOP. However, both RGC loss and optic nerve atrophy can independently occur with IOP at normal levels. In recent years, there has been substantial progress in the development of neuroprotective therapies for glaucoma in order to restore vital visual function. The present review intends to offer a brief insight into conventional glaucoma treatments and discuss exciting current developments of mostly preclinical data in novel neuroprotective strategies for glaucoma that include recent advances in noninvasive diagnostics going beyond IOP maintenance for an enhanced global view. Such strategies now target RGC loss and optic nerve damage, opening a critical therapeutic window for preventative monitoring and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailin Tian
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK ; Eye Centre, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shannon Shibata-Germanos
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Milena Pahlitzsch
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Research Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK ; Western Eye Hospital, ICORG, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
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