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Yang Z, Yan L, Zhang W, Qi J, An W, Yao K. Dyschromatopsia: a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms and cutting-edge treatments for color vision deficiency. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1265630. [PMID: 38298913 PMCID: PMC10828017 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1265630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Color blindness is a retinal disease that mainly manifests as a color vision disorder, characterized by achromatopsia, red-green color blindness, and blue-yellow color blindness. With the development of technology and progress in theory, extensive research has been conducted on the genetic basis of color blindness, and various approaches have been explored for its treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in understanding the pathological mechanism, clinical symptoms, and treatment options for color blindness. Additionally, we discuss the various treatment approaches that have been developed to address color blindness, including gene therapy, pharmacological interventions, and visual aids. Furthermore, we highlight the promising results from clinical trials of these treatments, as well as the ongoing challenges that must be addressed to achieve effective and long-lasting therapeutic outcomes. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the current state of research on color blindness, with the intention of informing further investigation and development of effective treatments for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Yang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Yan
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenliang Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjing An
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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2
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Hashida N, Nishida K. Recent advances and future prospects: current status and challenges of the intraocular injection of drugs for vitreoretinal diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 198:114870. [PMID: 37172783 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Effective drug therapy for vitreoretinal disease is a major challenge in the field of ophthalmology; various protective systems, including anatomical and physiological barriers, complicate drug delivery to precise targets. However, as the eye is a closed cavity, it is an ideal target for local administration. Various types of drug delivery systems have been investigated that take advantage of this aspect of the eye, enhancing ocular permeability and optimizing local drug concentrations. Many drugs, mainly anti-VEGF drugs, have been evaluated in clinical trials and have provided clinical benefit to many patients. In the near future, innovative drug delivery systems will be developed to avoid frequent intravitreal administration of drugs and maintain effective drug concentrations for a long period of time. Here, we review the published literature on various drugs and administration routes and current clinical applications. Recent advances in drug delivery systems are discussed along with future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyasu Hashida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan; Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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3
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Boyd P, Campbell LJ, Hyde DR. Clcf1/Crlf1a-mediated signaling is neuroprotective and required for Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged zebrafish retina. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1142586. [PMID: 36846595 PMCID: PMC9950120 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1142586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish possess the innate ability to fully regenerate any neurons lost following a retinal injury. This response is mediated by Müller glia that reprogram and divide asymmetrically to produce neuronal precursor cells that differentiate into the lost neurons. However, little is understood about the early signals that induce this response. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) was previously shown to be both neuroprotective and pro-proliferative within the zebrafish retina, however CNTF is not expressed following injury. Here we demonstrate that alternative ligands of the Ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor (CNTFR), such as Cardiotrophin-like cytokine factor 1 (Clcf1) and Cytokine receptor-like factor 1a (Crlf1a), are expressed within Müller glia of the light-damaged retina. We found that CNTFR, Clcf1, and Crlf1a are required for Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged retina. Furthermore, intravitreal injection of CLCF1/CRLF1 protected against rod photoreceptor cell death in the light-damaged retina and induced proliferation of rod precursor cells in the undamaged retina, but not Müller glia. While rod precursor cell proliferation was previously shown to be Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R)-dependent, co-injection of IGF-1 with CLCF1/CRLF1 failed to induce further proliferation of either Müller glia or rod precursor cells. Together, these findings demonstrate that CNTFR ligands have a neuroprotective effect and are required for induction of Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged zebrafish retina.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David R. Hyde
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Zebrafish Research, Galvin Life Sciences Building, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
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4
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John MC, Quinn J, Hu ML, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Xue K. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches for inherited retinal degenerations. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1068185. [PMID: 36710928 PMCID: PMC9881597 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1068185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are associated with mutations in over 250 genes and represent a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. While gene augmentation or gene editing therapies could address the underlying genetic mutations in a small subset of patients, their utility remains limited by the great genetic heterogeneity of IRDs and the costs of developing individualised therapies. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches target common pathogenic pathways that drive retinal degeneration or provide functional rescue of vision independent of the genetic cause, thus offering potential clinical benefits to all IRD patients. Here, we review the key gene-agnostic approaches, including retinal cell reprogramming and replacement, neurotrophic support, immune modulation and optogenetics. The relative benefits and limitations of these strategies and the timing of clinical interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly C. John
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joel Quinn
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Monica L. Hu
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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5
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Lin F, Xie M, Sheng X, Guo L, Jia J, Wang Y. Research trends in the field of retinitis pigmentosa from 2002 to 2021: a 20 years bibliometric analysis. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1825-1833. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02581-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Ciliary neurotrophic factor-mediated neuroprotection involves enhanced glycolysis and anabolism in degenerating mouse retinas. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7037. [PMID: 36396639 PMCID: PMC9672129 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34443-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) acts as a potent neuroprotective cytokine in multiple models of retinal degeneration. To understand mechanisms underlying its broad neuroprotective effects, we have investigated the influence of CNTF on metabolism in a mouse model of photoreceptor degeneration. CNTF treatment improves the morphology of photoreceptor mitochondria, but also leads to reduced oxygen consumption and suppressed respiratory chain activities. Molecular analyses show elevated glycolytic pathway gene transcripts and active enzymes. Metabolomics analyses detect significantly higher levels of ATP and the energy currency phosphocreatine, elevated glycolytic pathway metabolites, increased TCA cycle metabolites, lipid biosynthetic pathway intermediates, nucleotides, and amino acids. Moreover, CNTF treatment restores the key antioxidant glutathione to the wild type level. Therefore, CNTF significantly impacts the metabolic status of degenerating retinas by promoting aerobic glycolysis and augmenting anabolic activities. These findings reveal cellular mechanisms underlying enhanced neuronal viability and suggest potential therapies for treating retinal degeneration.
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Zhao L, Hou C, Yan N. Neuroinflammation in retinitis pigmentosa: Therapies targeting the innate immune system. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1059947. [PMID: 36389729 PMCID: PMC9647059 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1059947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an important cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and lacks effective treatment strategies. Although mutations are the primary cause of RP, research over the past decades has shown that neuroinflammation is an important cause of RP progression. Due to the abnormal activation of immunity, continuous sterile inflammation results in neuron loss and structural destruction. Therapies targeting inflammation have shown their potential to attenuate photoreceptor degeneration in preclinical models. Regardless of variations in genetic background, inflammatory modulation is emerging as an important role in the treatment of RP. We summarize the evidence for the role of inflammation in RP and mention therapeutic strategies where available, focusing on the modulation of innate immune signals, including TNFα signaling, TLR signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, chemokine signaling and JAK/STAT signaling. In addition, we describe epigenetic regulation, the gut microbiome and herbal agents as prospective treatment strategies for RP in recent advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhao
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Hou
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Naihong Yan
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Naihong Yan,
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8
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Immune recognition of syngeneic, allogeneic and xenogeneic stromal cell transplants in healthy retinas. STEM CELL RESEARCH & THERAPY 2022; 13:430. [PMID: 35987845 PMCID: PMC9392272 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03129-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Advanced therapies using adult mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for neurodegenerative diseases are not effectively translated into the clinic. The cross talk between the transplanted cells and the host tissue is something that, despite its importance, is not being systematically investigated. Methods We have compared the response of the mouse healthy retina to the intravitreal transplantation of MSCs derived from the bone marrow in four modalities: syngeneic, allogeneic, xenogeneic and allogeneic with immunosuppression using functional analysis in vivo and histology, cytometry and protein measurement post-mortem. Data were considered significant (p < 0.05) after nonparametric suitable statistical tests. Results Transplanted cells remain in the vitreous and are cleared by microglial cells a process that is quicker in allotransplants regardless of immunosuppression. All transplants cause anatomical remodelling which is more severe after xenotransplants. Xeno- and allotransplants with or without immunosuppression cause macro- and microglial activation and retinal functional impairment, being xenotransplants the most detrimental and the only ones that recruit CD45+Iba1−cells. The profile of proinflammatory cytokines changes in all transplantation settings. However, none of these changes affect the retinal ganglion cell population. Conclusions We show here a specific functional and anatomical retinal response depending on the MSC transplantation modality, an aspect that should be taken into consideration when conducting preclinical studies if we intend a more realistic translation into clinical practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03129-y.
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Liu W, Liu S, Li P, Yao K. Retinitis Pigmentosa: Progress in Molecular Pathology and Biotherapeutical Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094883. [PMID: 35563274 PMCID: PMC9101511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is genetically heterogeneous retinopathy caused by photoreceptor cell death and retinal pigment epithelial atrophy that eventually results in blindness in bilateral eyes. Various photoreceptor cell death types and pathological phenotypic changes that have been disclosed in RP demand in-depth research of its pathogenic mechanism that may account for inter-patient heterogeneous responses to mainstream drug treatment. As the primary method for studying the genetic characteristics of RP, molecular biology has been widely used in disease diagnosis and clinical trials. Current technology iterations, such as gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and optogenetics, are advancing towards precise diagnosis and clinical applications. Specifically, technologies, such as effective delivery vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and iPSC-based cell transplantation, hasten the pace of personalized precision medicine in RP. The combination of conventional therapy and state-of-the-art medication is promising in revolutionizing RP treatment strategies. This article provides an overview of the latest research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, aiming for a convenient reference of what has been achieved so far.
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10
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Van Gelder RN. Gene Therapy Approaches to Slow or Reverse Blindness From Inherited Retinal Degeneration: Growth Factors and Optogenetics. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:209-228. [PMID: 34584058 PMCID: PMC8486303 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To date, clinical gene therapy efforts for inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) have focused largely on gene replacement. The large number of genes and alleles causing IRD, however, makes this approach practical only for the most common causes. Additionally, gene replacement therapy cannot reverse existing retinal degeneration. Viral-mediated gene therapy can be used for two other approaches to slow or reverse IRD. First, by driving intraocular expression of growth factors or neuroprotective proteins, retinal degeneration can be slowed. Second, by expressing light-sensitive proteins (either microbial channelopsins or mammalian G-protein coupled opsins) in preserved inner retinal neurons, light sensitivity can be restored to the blind retina. Both approaches have advanced substantially in the past decade, and both are nearing clinical tests. This review surveys recent progress in these approaches.
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11
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Yang JY, Lu B, Feng Q, Alfaro JS, Chen PH, Loscalzo J, Wei WB, Zhang YY, Lu SJ, Wang S. Retinal Protection by Sustained Nanoparticle Delivery of Oncostatin M and Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Into Rodent Models of Retinal Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:6. [PMID: 34347033 PMCID: PMC8340648 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.9.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is caused by mutations in more than 60 genes. Mutation-independent approaches to its treatment by exogeneous administration of neurotrophic factors that will preserve existing retinal anatomy and visual function are a rational strategy. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and oncostatin M (OSM) are two potent survival factors for neurons. However, growth factors degrade rapidly if administered directly. A sustained delivery of growth factors is required for translating their potential therapeutic benefit into patients. Methods Stable and biocompatible nanoparticles (NP) that incorporated with CNTF and OSM (CNTF- and OSM-NP) were formulated. Both NP-trophic factors were tested in vitro using photoreceptor progenitor cells (PPC) and retinal ganglion progenitor cells (RGPC) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and in vivo using an optic nerve crush model for glaucoma and the Royal College of Surgeons rat, model of RP (n = 8/treatment) by intravitreal delivery. Efficacy was evaluated by electroretinography and optokinetic response. Retinal histology and a whole mount analysis were performed at the end of experiments. Results Significant prosurvival and pro-proliferation effects of both complexes were observed in both photoreceptor progenitor cells and RGPC in vitro. Importantly, significant RGC survival and preservation of vision and photoreceptors in both complex-treated animals were observed compared with control groups. Conclusions These results demonstrate that NP-trophic factors are neuroprotective both in vitro and in vivo. A single intravitreal delivery of both NP-trophic factors offered neuroprotection in animal models of retinal degeneration. Translational Relevance Sustained nanoparticle delivery of neurotrophic factors may offer beneficial effects in slowing down progressive retinal degenerative conditions, including retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yan Yang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Bin Lu
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Qiang Feng
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Jorge S Alfaro
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Po-Hsuen Chen
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Joseph Loscalzo
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wen-Bin Wei
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Yi Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shi-Jiang Lu
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Shaomei Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Scholl HPN, Boyer D, Giani A, Chong V. The use of neuroprotective agents in treating geographic atrophy. Ophthalmic Res 2021; 64:888-902. [PMID: 34153966 DOI: 10.1159/000517794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik P N Scholl
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Boyer
- Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Andrea Giani
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Victor Chong
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
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13
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Caruso S, Ryu J, Quinn PM, Tsang SH. Precision metabolome reprogramming for imprecision therapeutics in retinitis pigmentosa. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:3971-3973. [PMID: 32657778 DOI: 10.1172/jci139239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), the most common form of rod-cone dystrophy, is caused by greater than 3100 mutations in more than 71 genes, many of which are preferentially expressed in rod photoreceptors. Cone death generally follows rod loss regardless of the underlying pathogenic mutation. Preventing the secondary loss of cone photoreceptors would preserve central visual acuity and substantially improve patients' quality of life. In this issue of the JCI, Wang et al. demonstrate that adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of TGF-β1 promoted cone survival and function in 3 distinct RP models with rod-specific mutations. TGF-β1 induces microglia to metabolically tune from a glycolytic phenotype (M1) to an oxidative phenotype (M2), which associates with neuroprotection and the antiinflammatory ecosystem. Consolidating the results of this study with our current understanding of how TGF-β1 regulates microglia polarization, we highlight cell-specific metabolome reprogramming as a promising non-gene-specific therapeutic avenue for inherited retinal degenerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Caruso
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, and
| | - Joseph Ryu
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory
| | - Peter Mj Quinn
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory.,Columbia Stem Cell Initiative.,Department of Ophthalmology.,Department of Pathology.,Department of Cell Biology.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, and.,Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
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Bucher F, Aguilar E, Marra KV, Rapp J, Arnold J, Diaz-Aguilar S, Lange C, Agostini H, Schlunck G, Stahl A, Friedlander M. CNTF Prevents Development of Outer Retinal Neovascularization Through Upregulation of CxCl10. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:20. [PMID: 32780864 PMCID: PMC7441336 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a well-characterized neurotrophic factor currently in clinical trials for the treatment of macular telangiectasia type II. Our previous work showed that CNTF-induced STAT3 signaling is a potent inhibitor of pathologic preretinal neovascular tuft formation in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. In this study, we investigated the effect of CNTF on outer retinal and choroidal angiogenesis and the mechanisms that underpin the observed decrease in outer retinal neovascularization following CNTF treatment. Methods In the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models, mice received a one-time injection (on postnatal day [P] 12 in the Vldlr–/– model and 1 day after laser in the Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV) model) of recombinant CNTF or CxCl10, and the extent of neovascular lesions was assessed 6 days posttreatment. STAT3 downstream targets affected by CNTF treatment were identified using quantitative PCR analysis. A proteome array was used to compare media conditioned by CNTF-treated and control-treated primary Müller cells to screen for CNTF-induced changes in secreted angiogenic factors. Results Intravitreal treatment with recombinant CNTF led to significant reduction in neovascularization in the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models. Treatment effect in the Vldlr–/– was long-lasting but time sensitive, requiring intravitreal treatment before P19. Mechanistic workup in vitro as well as in vivo confirmed significant activation of the STAT3-signaling pathway in Müller cells in response to CNTF treatment and upregulation of CxCl10. Intravitreal injections of recombinant CxCl10 significantly reduced outer retinal neovascularization in vivo in both the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models. Conclusions CNTF treatment indirectly affects outer retinal and choroidal neovascularization by inducing CxCl10 secretion from retinal Müller cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Bucher
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Edith Aguilar
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Kyle V Marra
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Julian Rapp
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Arnold
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Diaz-Aguilar
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Friedlander
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
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15
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Xin X, Li Y, Liu H. Hesperidin ameliorates hypobaric hypoxia-induced retinal impairment through activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibition of apoptosis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19426. [PMID: 33173100 PMCID: PMC7655840 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76156-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
High-altitude retinopathy is initiated by hypobaric hypoxia and characterized by retinal functional changes, but the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that mediate this dysfunction remain unclear. The aim of our investigation is to determine the protective efficacy of hesperidin (HSD) on the hypobaric hypoxia-induced damage to the retina. Experiment rats were randomly grouped as the control, hypobaric hypoxia group and HSD intervention group. The hypobaric hypoxia and the HSD intervention groups were maintained in a low-pressure oxygen cabin. We found that hypobaric hypoxia dramatically reduced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1(HO-1) levels, induced an elevation in immunostaining of TUNEL-positive cells. Hypobaric hypoxia exposure resulted in the increase of Bcl-2, decrease of caspase3 and caspase9 expression as well as Bax level. HSD protected the retina from hypobaric hypoxia-caused impairment by enhancing Nrf2 and HO-1 activation, attenuating apoptotic caspases levels, and reducing Bax and preserving Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, oxidative stress increased poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) and suppressed ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) level, HSD treatment reverted this effect by down-regulation of PARP1 and up-regulation of CNTF expression. Taken together, our findings implicate that HSD exerts a protective role in response to hypobaric hypoxia stress by activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibiting apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Xin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Yanrong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Haiping Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
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Newton F, Megaw R. Mechanisms of Photoreceptor Death in Retinitis Pigmentosa. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11101120. [PMID: 32987769 PMCID: PMC7598671 DOI: 10.3390/genes11101120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common cause of inherited blindness and is characterised by the progressive loss of retinal photoreceptors. However, RP is a highly heterogeneous disease and, while much progress has been made in developing gene replacement and gene editing treatments for RP, it is also necessary to develop treatments that are applicable to all causative mutations. Further understanding of the mechanisms leading to photoreceptor death is essential for the development of these treatments. Recent work has therefore focused on the role of apoptotic and non-apoptotic cell death pathways in RP and the various mechanisms that trigger these pathways in degenerating photoreceptors. In particular, several recent studies have begun to elucidate the role of microglia and innate immune response in the progression of RP. Here, we discuss some of the recent progress in understanding mechanisms of rod and cone photoreceptor death in RP and summarise recent clinical trials targeting these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fay Newton
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Roly Megaw
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK;
- Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh EH3 9HA, UK
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17
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Intravitreal Co-Administration of GDNF and CNTF Confers Synergistic and Long-Lasting Protection against Injury-Induced Cell Death of Retinal Ganglion Cells in Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092082. [PMID: 32932933 PMCID: PMC7565883 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that neural stem cell-based intravitreal co-administration of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) confers profound protection to injured retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a mouse optic nerve crush model, resulting in the survival of ~38% RGCs two months after the nerve lesion. Here, we analyzed whether this neuroprotective effect is long-lasting and studied the impact of the pronounced RGC rescue on axonal regeneration. To this aim, we co-injected a GDNF- and a CNTF-overexpressing neural stem cell line into the vitreous cavity of adult mice one day after an optic nerve crush and determined the number of surviving RGCs 4, 6 and 8 months after the lesion. Remarkably, we found no significant decrease in the number of surviving RGCs between the successive analysis time points, indicating that the combined administration of GDNF and CNTF conferred lifelong protection to injured RGCs. While the simultaneous administration of GDNF and CNTF stimulated pronounced intraretinal axon growth when compared to retinas treated with either factor alone, numbers of regenerating axons in the distal optic nerve stumps were similar in animals co-treated with both factors and animals treated with CNTF only.
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18
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Hassall MM, McClements ME, Barnard AR, Patrício MI, Aslam SA, Maclaren RE. Analysis of Early Cone Dysfunction in an In Vivo Model of Rod-Cone Dystrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176055. [PMID: 32842706 PMCID: PMC7503557 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a generic term for a group of genetic diseases characterized by loss of rod and cone photoreceptor cells. Although the genetic causes of RP frequently only affect the rod photoreceptor cells, cone photoreceptors become stressed in the absence of rods and undergo a secondary degeneration. Changes in the gene expression profile of cone photoreceptor cells are likely to occur prior to observable physiological changes. To this end, we sought to achieve greater understanding of the changes in cone photoreceptor cells early in the degeneration process of the Rho−/− mouse model. To account for gene expression changes attributed to loss of cone photoreceptor cells, we normalized PCR in the remaining number of cones to a cone cell reporter (OPN1-GFP). Gene expression profiles of key components involved in the cone phototransduction cascade were correlated with tests of retinal cone function prior to cell loss. A significant downregulation of the photoreceptor transcription factor Crx was observed, which preceded a significant downregulation in cone opsin transcripts that coincided with declining cone function. Our data add to the growing understanding of molecular changes that occur prior to cone dysfunction in a model of rod-cone dystrophy. It is of interest that gene supplementation of CRX by adeno-associated viral vector delivery prior to cone cell loss did not prevent cone photoreceptor degeneration in this mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M. Hassall
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-426-732-991
| | - Michelle E. McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
| | - Alun R. Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Maria I. Patrício
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
| | - Sher A. Aslam
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Robert E. Maclaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (M.E.M.); (A.R.B.); (M.I.P.); (S.A.A.); (R.E.M.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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19
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Fry LE, Peddle CF, Stevanovic M, Barnard AR, McClements ME, MacLaren RE. Promoter Orientation within an AAV-CRISPR Vector Affects Cas9 Expression and Gene Editing Efficiency. CRISPR J 2020; 3:276-283. [PMID: 32833533 PMCID: PMC7469699 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have been widely adopted for delivery of CRISPR-Cas components, especially for therapeutic gene editing. For a single vector system, both the Cas9 and guide RNA (gRNA) are encoded within a single transgene, usually from separate promoters. Careful design of this bi-cistronic construct is required due to the minimal packaging capacity of AAV. We investigated how placement of the U6 promoter expressing the gRNA on the reverse strand to SaCas9 driven by a cytomegalovirus promoter affected gene editing rates compared to placement on the forward strand. We show that orientation in the reverse direction reduces editing rates from an AAV vector due to reduced transcription of both SaCas9 and guide RNA. This effect was observed only following AAV transduction; it was not seen following plasmid transfection. These results have implications for the design of AAV-CRISPR vectors, and suggest that results from optimizing plasmid transgenes may not translate when delivered via AAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis E. Fry
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline F. Peddle
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marta Stevanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alun R. Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle E. McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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20
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French LS, Mellough CB, Chen FK, Carvalho LS. A Review of Gene, Drug and Cell-Based Therapies for Usher Syndrome. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:183. [PMID: 32733204 PMCID: PMC7363968 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00183] [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] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Usher syndrome is a genetic disorder causing neurosensory hearing loss and blindness from retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Adaptive techniques such as braille, digital and optical magnifiers, mobility training, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices are indispensable for reducing disability. However, there is currently no treatment to reduce or arrest sensory cell degeneration. There are several classes of treatments for Usher syndrome being investigated. The present article reviews the progress this research has made towards delivering commercial options for patients with Usher syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy S French
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Carla B Mellough
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Livia S Carvalho
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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21
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Itkonen J, Annala A, Tavakoli S, Arango-Gonzalez B, Ueffing M, Toropainen E, Ruponen M, Casteleijn MG, Urtti A. Characterization, Stability, and in Vivo Efficacy Studies of Recombinant Human CNTF and Its Permeation into the Neural Retina in ex Vivo Organotypic Retinal Explant Culture Models. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12070611. [PMID: 32629980 PMCID: PMC7408322 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12070611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is one of the most studied neuroprotective agents with acknowledged potential in treating diseases of the posterior eye segment. Although its efficacy and mechanisms of action in the retina have been studied extensively, it is still not comprehensively understood which retinal cells mediate the therapeutic effects of CNTF. As with therapeutic proteins in general, it is poorly elucidated whether exogenous CNTF administered into the vitreous can enter and distribute into the retina and hence reach potentially responsive target cells. Here, we have characterized our purified recombinant human CNTF (rhCNTF), studied the protein’s in vitro bioactivity in a cell-based assay, and evaluated the thermodynamic and oligomeric status of the protein during storage. Biological activity of rhCNTF was further evaluated in vivo in an animal model of retinal degeneration. The retinal penetration and distribution of rhCNTF after 24 h was studied utilizing two ex vivo retina models. Based on our characterization findings, our rhCNTF is correctly folded and biologically active. Moreover, based on initial screening and subsequent follow-up, we identified two buffers in which rhCNTF retains its stability during storage. Whereas rhCNTF did not show photoreceptor preservative effect or improve the function of photoreceptors in vivo, this could possibly be due to the used disease model or the short duration of action with a single intravitreal injection of rhCNTF. On the other hand, the lack of in vivo efficacy was shown to not be due to distribution limitations; permeation into the retina was observed in both retinal explant models as in 24 h rhCNTF penetrated the inner limiting membrane, and being mostly observed in the ganglion cell layer, distributed to different layers of the neural retina. As rhCNTF can reach deeper retinal layers, in general, having direct effects on resident CNTF-responsive target cells is plausible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaakko Itkonen
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- Correspondence: (J.I.); (A.U.)
| | - Ada Annala
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
- Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Science, Utrecht University, David de Wiedgebouw, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shirin Tavakoli
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Blanca Arango-Gonzalez
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.A.-G.); (M.U.)
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.A.-G.); (M.U.)
| | - Elisa Toropainen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
| | - Marika Ruponen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco G. Casteleijn
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Solutions for Natural Resources and Environment, Tietotie 2, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Arto Urtti
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
- Laboratory of Biohybrid Technologies, Institute of Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University, Universitetskii pr. 26, Peterhoff, 198504 St. Petersburg, Russia
- Correspondence: (J.I.); (A.U.)
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22
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Peynshaert K, Devoldere J, Philips F, Vergauwe F, De Smedt S, Remaut K. Influence of pathogenic stimuli on Müller cell transfection by lipoplexes. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2020; 150:87-95. [PMID: 32173604 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprotection is a mutation-independent therapeutic strategy that seeks to enhance the survival of neuronal cell types through delivery of neuroprotective factors. The Müller cell, a retinal glial cell type appreciated for its unique morphology and neuroprotective functions, could be regarded as an ideal target for this strategy by functioning as a secretion platform within the retina following uptake of a transgene of our choice. In this in vitro study we aimed to investigate the capability of Müller cells to take up a standard liposomal vector (i.e. Lipofectamine 2000) and process its pDNA or mRNA cargo into the reporter GFP protein. By doing so, we found that mRNA outperformed pDNA in Müller cell transfection efficiency. Since neuroprotection is explored as a therapy for diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, we furthermore examined the Müller cell's lipoplex-induced transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity in stressful conditions linked to these diseases - i.e. hypoxia, hyperglycemia and oxidative stress. Interestingly, Müller cells were able of maintaining high GFP expression regardless of these noxious stimuli. In terms of lipoplex-induced toxicity, hyperglycemia seemed to have a protective effect while hypoxia and oxidative stress led to a slightly higher toxicity. In conclusion, our study indicates that mRNA-lipoplexes have potential in transfecting Müller cells in healthy as well as diseased conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Peynshaert
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joke Devoldere
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frederik Philips
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Fauve Vergauwe
- Odisee University College, Technology Campus Ghent, Gebroeders De Smetstraat 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan De Smedt
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Lab of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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23
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Metabolic and Redox Signaling of the Nucleoredoxin-Like-1 Gene for the Treatment of Genetic Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051625. [PMID: 32120883 PMCID: PMC7084304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The loss of cone photoreceptor function in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) severely impacts the central and daily vision and quality of life of patients affected by this disease. The loss of cones follows the degeneration of rods, in a manner independent of the causing mutations in numerous genes associated with RP. We have explored this phenomenon and proposed that the loss of rods triggers a reduction in the expression of rod-derived cone viability factor (RdCVF) encoded by the nucleoredoxin-like 1 (NXNL1) gene which interrupts the metabolic and redox signaling between rods and cones. After providing scientific evidence supporting this mechanism, we propose a way to restore this lost signaling and prevent the cone vision loss in animal models of RP. We also explain how we could restore this signaling to prevent cone vision loss in animal models of the disease and how we plan to apply this therapeutic strategy by the administration of both products of NXNL1 encoding the trophic factor RdCVF and the thioredoxin enzyme RdCVFL using an adeno-associated viral vector. We describe in detail all the steps of this translational program, from the design of the drug, its production, biological validation, and analytical and preclinical qualification required for a future clinical trial that would, if successful, provide a treatment for this incurable disease.
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24
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Barnea-Cramer AO, Singh M, Fischer D, De Silva S, McClements ME, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE. Repair of Retinal Degeneration following Ex Vivo Minicircle DNA Gene Therapy and Transplantation of Corrected Photoreceptor Progenitors. Mol Ther 2020; 28:830-844. [PMID: 32027843 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors describe retinal reconstruction and restoration of visual function in heritably blind mice missing the rhodopsin gene using a novel method of ex vivo gene therapy and cell transplantation. Photoreceptor precursors with the same chromosomal genetic mutation were treated ex vivo using minicircle DNA, a non-viral technique that does not present the packaging limitations of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. Following transplantation, genetically modified cells reconstructed a functional retina and supported vision in blind mice harboring the same founder gene mutation. Gene delivery by minicircles showed comparable long-term efficiency to AAV in delivering the missing gene, representing the first non-viral system for robust treatment of photoreceptors. This important proof-of-concept finding provides an innovative convergence of cell and gene therapies for the treatment of hereditary neurodegenerative disease and may be applied in future studies toward ex vivo correction of patient-specific cells to provide an autologous source of tissue to replace lost photoreceptors in inherited retinal blindness. This is the first report using minicircles in photoreceptor progenitors and the first to transplant corrected photoreceptor precursors to restore vision in blind animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mandeep Singh
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Dominik Fischer
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; University Eye Hospital and Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Samantha De Silva
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Alun R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.
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25
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Jeon MT, Moon GJ, Kim S, Choi M, Oh YS, Kim DW, Kim HJ, Lee KJ, Choe Y, Ha CM, Jang IS, Nakamura M, McLean C, Chung WS, Shin WH, Lee SG, Kim SR. Neurotrophic interactions between neurons and astrocytes following AAV1-Rheb(S16H) transduction in the hippocampus in vivo. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 177:668-686. [PMID: 31658360 PMCID: PMC7012949 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose We recently reported that AAV1‐Rheb(S16H) transduction could protect hippocampal neurons through the induction of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the rat hippocampus in vivo. It is still unclear how neuronal BDNF produced by AAV1‐Rheb(S16H) transduction induces neuroprotective effects in the hippocampus and whether its up‐regulation contributes to the enhance of a neuroprotective system in the adult brain. Experimental Approach To determine the presence of a neuroprotective system in the hippocampus of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), we examined the levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein, BDNF and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and their receptors, tropomyocin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and CNTF receptor α(CNTFRα), in the hippocampus of AD patients. We also determined whether AAV1‐Rheb(S16H) transduction stimulates astroglial activation and whether reactive astrocytes contribute to neuroprotection in models of hippocampal neurotoxicity in vivo and in vitro. Key Results AD patients may have a potential neuroprotective system, demonstrated by increased levels of full‐length TrkB and CNTFRα in the hippocampus. Further AAV1‐Rheb(S16H) transduction induced sustained increases in the levels of full‐length TrkB and CNTFRα in reactive astrocytes and hippocampal neurons. Moreover, neuronal BDNF produced by Rheb(S16H) transduction of hippocampal neurons induced reactive astrocytes, resulting in CNTF production through the activation of astrocytic TrkB and the up‐regulation of neuronal BDNF and astrocytic CNTF which had synergistic effects on the survival of hippocampal neurons in vivo. Conclusions and Implications The results demonstrated that Rheb(S16H) transduction of hippocampal neurons could strengthen the neuroprotective system and this intensified system may have a therapeutic value against neurodegeneration in the adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Tae Jeon
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Gyeong Joon Moon
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sehwan Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Minji Choi
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Seok Oh
- Department of Brain-Cognitive Science, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Korea
| | - Dong Woon Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Research Institute, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Hyung-Jun Kim
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Kea Joo Lee
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Youngshik Choe
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chang Man Ha
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Il-Sung Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Michiko Nakamura
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Catriona McLean
- Victorian Brain Bank Network, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Anatomical Pathology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Won-Suk Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Won-Ho Shin
- Predictive Model Research Center, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seok-Geun Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.,KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Ryong Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Institute of Life Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
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Moon GJ, Kim S, Jeon MT, Lee KJ, Jang IS, Nakamura M, Kim SR. Therapeutic Potential of AAV1-Rheb(S16H) Transduction Against Alzheimer's Disease. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8122053. [PMID: 31766645 PMCID: PMC6947419 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8122053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently reported that adeno-associated virus serotype 1-constitutively active Ras homolog enriched in brain [AAV1-Rheb(S16H)] transduction of hippocampal neurons could induce neuron-astroglia interactions in the rat hippocampus in vivo, resulting in neuroprotection. However, it remains uncertain whether AAV1-Rheb(S16H) transduction induces neurotrophic effects and preserves the cognitive memory in an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) with characteristic phenotypic features, such as β-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation and cognitive impairments. To assess the therapeutic potential of Rheb(S16H) in AD, we have examined the beneficial effects of AAV1-Rheb(S16H) administration in the 5XFAD mouse model. Rheb(S16H) transduction of hippocampal neurons in the 5XFAD mice increased the levels of neurotrophic signaling molecules, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), and their corresponding receptors, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and CNTF receptor α subunit (CNTFRα), respectively. In addition, Rheb(S16H) transduction inhibited Aβ production and accumulation in the hippocampus of 5XFAD mice and protected the decline of long-term potentiation (LTP), resulting in the prevention of cognitive impairments, which was demonstrated using novel object recognition testing. These results indicate that Rheb(S16H) transduction of hippocampal neurons may have therapeutic potential in AD by inhibiting Aβ accumulation and preserving LTP associated with cognitive memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyeong Joon Moon
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (G.J.M.); (S.K.); (M.-T.J.)
- BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Sehwan Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (G.J.M.); (S.K.); (M.-T.J.)
- BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Min-Tae Jeon
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (G.J.M.); (S.K.); (M.-T.J.)
- BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
| | - Kea Joo Lee
- Neural Circuits Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu 41062, Korea;
| | - Il-Sung Jang
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41940, Korea;
| | - Michiko Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41940, Korea;
| | - Sang Ryong Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; (G.J.M.); (S.K.); (M.-T.J.)
- BK21 plus KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea;
- Institute of Life Science & Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Gábriel R, Pöstyéni E, Dénes V. Neuroprotective Potential of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide in Retinal Degenerations of Metabolic Origin. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1031. [PMID: 31649495 PMCID: PMC6794456 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP1-38) is a highly conserved member of the secretin/glucagon/VIP family. The repressive effect of PACAP1-38 on the apoptotic machinery has been an area of active research conferring a significant neuroprotective potential onto this peptide. A remarkable number of studies suggest its importance in the etiology of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in relation to retinal metabolic disorders. In our review, we provide short descriptions of various pathological conditions (diabetic retinopathy, excitotoxic retinal injury and ischemic retinal lesion) in which the remedial effect of PACAP has been well demonstrated in various animal models. Of all the pathological conditions, diabetic retinopathy seems to be the most intriguing as it develops in 75% of patients with type 1 and 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes, with concomitant progression to legal blindness in about 5%. Several animal models have been developed in recent years to study retinal degenerations and out of these glaucoma and age-related retina degeneration models bear human recapitulations. PACAP neuroprotection is thought to operate through enhanced cAMP production upon binding to PAC1-R. However, the underlying signaling network that leads to neuroprotection is not fully understood. We observed that (i) PACAP is not equally efficient in the above conditions; (ii) in some cases more than one signaling pathways are activated; (iii) the coupling of PAC1-R and signaling is stage dependent; and (iv) PAC1-R is not the only receptor that must be considered to interpret the effects in our experiments. These observations point to a complex signaling mechanism, that involves alternative routes besides the classical cAMP/protein kinase A pathway to evoke the outstanding neuroprotective action. Consequently, the possible contribution of the other two main receptors (VPAC1-R and VPAC2-R) will also be discussed. Finally, the potential medical use of PACAP in some retinal and ocular disorders will also be reviewed. By taking advantage of, low-cost synthesis technologies today, PACAP may serve as an alternative to the expensive treatment modelities currently available in ocular or retinal conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Dénes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Kovacs K, Vaczy A, Fekete K, Kovari P, Atlasz T, Reglodi D, Gabriel R, Gallyas F, Sumegi B. PARP Inhibitor Protects Against Chronic Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Retinal Injury by Regulation of MAPKs, HIF1α, Nrf2, and NFκB. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:1478-1490. [PMID: 30973576 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose In the eye, chronic hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) contributes to the development of a number of ocular disorders. H/R induces the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1) activation that promotes inflammation, cell death, and disease progression. Here, we analyzed the protective effects of the PARP1 inhibitor olaparib in H/R-induced retina injury and investigated the signaling mechanisms involved. Methods A rat retinal H/R model was used to detect histologic and biochemical changes in the retina. Results H/R induced reductions in the thickness of most retinal layers, which were prevented by olaparib. Furthermore, H/R caused increased levels of Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3β phosphorylation, which were further increased by olaparib, contributing to retina protection. By contrast, H/R-induced c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) phosphorylation and activation were reduced by olaparib, via mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1 (MKP-1) expression. In addition, H/R-induced hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) levels were decreased by olaparib, which possibly contributed to reduced VEGF expression. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) expression was slightly increased by H/R and was further activated by olaparib. Nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) was also activated by H/R through phosphorylation (Ser536) and acetylation (Lys310) of the p65 subunit, although this was significantly reduced by olaparib. Conclusions Olaparib reduced H/R-induced degenerative changes in retinal morphology. The protective mechanisms of olaparib most probably involved Nrf2 activation and ROS reduction, as well as normalization of HIF1α and related VEGF expression. In addition, olaparib reduced inflammation by NFκB dephosphorylation/inactivation, possibly via the PARP1 inhibition-MKP-1 activation-p38 MAPK inhibition pathway. PARP inhibitors represent potential therapeutics in H/R-induced retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Kovacs
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Vaczy
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Katalin Fekete
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Petra Kovari
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Atlasz
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary.,Department of Sportbiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Gallyas
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary.,Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,Nuclear-Mitochondrial Interactions Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balazs Sumegi
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary.,Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,Nuclear-Mitochondrial Interactions Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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Vagni P, Perlini LE, Chenais NAL, Marchetti T, Parrini M, Contestabile A, Cancedda L, Ghezzi D. Gene Editing Preserves Visual Functions in a Mouse Model of Retinal Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:945. [PMID: 31551698 PMCID: PMC6748340 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a large and heterogeneous group of degenerative diseases caused by mutations in various genes. Given the favorable anatomical and immunological characteristics of the eye, gene therapy holds great potential for their treatment. Our goal is to validate the preservation of visual functions by viral-free homology directed repair (HDR) in an autosomal recessive loss of function mutation. We used a tailored gene editing system based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) to prevent retinal photoreceptor death in the retinal degeneration 10 (Rd10) mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. We tested the gene editing tool in vitro and then used in vivo subretinal electroporation to deliver it to one of the retinas of mouse pups at different stages of photoreceptor differentiation. Three months after gene editing, the treated eye exhibited a higher visual acuity compared to the untreated eye. Moreover, we observed preservation of light-evoked responses both in explanted retinas and in the visual cortex of treated animals. Our study validates a CRISPR/Cas9-based therapy as a valuable new approach for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa caused by autosomal recessive loss-of-function point mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Vagni
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laura E Perlini
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Naïg A L Chenais
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tommaso Marchetti
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martina Parrini
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Contestabile
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Roma, Italy
| | - Diego Ghezzi
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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Devoldere J, Wels M, Peynshaert K, Dewitte H, De Smedt SC, Remaut K. The obstacle course to the inner retina: Hyaluronic acid-coated lipoplexes cross the vitreous but fail to overcome the inner limiting membrane. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2019; 141:161-171. [PMID: 31150809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Considerable research over the last few years has revealed dysregulation of growth factors in various retinal diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and photoreceptor degenerations. The use of messengerRNA (mRNA) to transiently overexpress a specific factor could compensate for this imbalance. However, a critical challenge of this approach lies in the ability to efficiently deliver mRNA molecules to the retinal target cells. In this study we found that intravitreal (IVT) injection is an attractive approach to deliver mRNA to the retina, providing two critical barriers can be overcome: the vitreous and the inner limiting membrane (ILM). We demonstrated that the vitreous is indeed a major hurdle in the delivery of the cationic mRNA-complexes to retinal cells, both in terms of vitreal mobility and cellular uptake. To improve their intravitreal mobility and avoid unwanted extracellular interactions, we evaluated the use of hyaluronic acid (HA) as an electrostatic coating strategy. This HA-coating provided the complexes with a negative surface charge, markedly enhancing their mobility in the vitreous humor, without reducing their cellular internalization and transfection efficiency. However, although this coating strategy allows the mRNA-complexes to successfully overcome the vitreal barrier, the majority of the particles accumulated at the ILM. This study therefore underscores the crucial barrier function of the ILM toward non-viral retinal gene delivery and the need to smartly design mRNA-carriers able to surmount the vitreous as well as the ILM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joke Devoldere
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mike Wels
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Peynshaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Heleen Dewitte
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Medical School of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1050 Jette, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Ho MT, Teal CJ, Shoichet MS. A hyaluronan/methylcellulose-based hydrogel for local cell and biomolecule delivery to the central nervous system. Brain Res Bull 2019; 148:46-54. [PMID: 30898580 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine strategies rely on exogenous cell transplantation and/or endogenous cell stimulation. Biomaterials can help to increase the regenerative potential of cells and biomolecules by controlling transplanted cell fate and provide a local, sustained release of biomolecules. In this review, we describe the use of a hyaluronan/methylcellulose (HAMC)-based hydrogel as a delivery vehicle to the brain, spinal cord, and retina to promote cellular survival and tissue repair. We discuss various controlled release strategies to prolong the delivery of factors for neuroprotection. The versatility of this hydrogel for a diversity of applications highlights its potential to enhance cell- and biomolecule-based treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret T Ho
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carter J Teal
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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A light in the dark: state of the art and perspectives in optogenetics and optopharmacology for restoring vision. Future Med Chem 2019; 11:463-487. [DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, innovative therapeutic strategies against inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) have emerged. In particular, chemical- and opto-genetics approaches or a combination of them have been identified for modulating neuronal/optical activity in order to restore vision in blinding diseases. The ‘chemical-genetics approach’ (optopharmacology) uses small molecules (exogenous photoswitches) for restoring light sensitivity by activating ion channels. The ‘opto-genetics approach’ employs light-activated photosensitive proteins (exogenous opsins), introduced by viral vectors in injured tissues, to restore light response. These approaches offer control of neuronal activities with spatial precision and limited invasiveness, although with some drawbacks. Currently, a combined therapeutic strategy (optogenetic pharmacology) is emerging. This review describes the state of the art and provides an overview of the future perspectives in vision restoration.
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García-Caballero C, Lieppman B, Arranz-Romera A, Molina-Martínez IT, Bravo-Osuna I, Young M, Baranov P, Herrero-Vanrell R. Photoreceptor preservation induced by intravitreal controlled delivery of GDNF and GDNF/melatonin in rhodopsin knockout mice. Mol Vis 2018; 24:733-745. [PMID: 30581280 PMCID: PMC6279195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the potential of a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based slow release formulation of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) alone or in combination with melatonin to rescue photoreceptors in a mouse model of retinal degeneration. Methods GDNF and GDNF/melatonin-loaded PLGA microspheres (MSs) were prepared using a solid-in-oil-in-water emulsion solvent extraction-evaporation technique. A combination of PLGA and vitamin E (VitE) was used to create the microcarriers. The structure, particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro release profile of the microparticulate formulations were characterized. Microparticulate systems (non-loaded, GDNF, and GDNF/melatonin-loaded MSs) were administered intravitreally to 3-week-old rhodopsin knockout mice (rho (-/-); n=7). The functional neuroprotective effect was assessed with electroretinography at 6, 9, and 12 weeks old. The rescue of the structure was determined with photoreceptor quantification at 12 weeks (9 weeks after administration of MSs). Immunohistochemistry for photoreceptor, glial, and proliferative markers was also performed. Results The microspheres were able to deliver GDNF or to codeliver GDNF and melatonin in a sustained manner. Intravitreal injection of GDNF or GDNF/melatonin-loaded MSs led to partial functional and structural rescue of photoreceptors compared to blank microspheres or vehicle. No significant intraocular inflammatory reaction was observed after intravitreal injection of the microspheres. Conclusions A single intravitreal injection of GDNF or GDNF/melatonin-loaded microspheres in the PLGA/VitE combination promoted the rescue of the photoreceptors in rho (-/-) mice. These intraocular drug delivery systems enable the efficient codelivery of therapeutically active substances for the treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina García-Caballero
- Pharmaceutical Innovation in Ophthalmology Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Burke Lieppman
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Alicia Arranz-Romera
- Pharmaceutical Innovation in Ophthalmology Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene. T. Molina-Martínez
- Pharmaceutical Innovation in Ophthalmology Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa Sanitaria en Enfermedades Oculares Oftared e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)
| | - Irene Bravo-Osuna
- Pharmaceutical Innovation in Ophthalmology Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa Sanitaria en Enfermedades Oculares Oftared e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)
| | - Michael Young
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Petr Baranov
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rocío Herrero-Vanrell
- Pharmaceutical Innovation in Ophthalmology Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain,Red Temática de Investigación Cooperativa Sanitaria en Enfermedades Oculares Oftared e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC)
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Jones SA, Jenkins BJ. Recent insights into targeting the IL-6 cytokine family in inflammatory diseases and cancer. Nat Rev Immunol 2018; 18:773-789. [DOI: 10.1038/s41577-018-0066-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 435] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Quantitative progression of retinitis pigmentosa by optical coherence tomography angiography. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13130. [PMID: 30177829 PMCID: PMC6120860 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31488-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) is a non-invasive alternative to fluorescein angiography that allows for the study of the retinal and choroidal vasculatures. In this retrospective cohort study of 28 patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), we used OCT-A to quantify changes in perfusion density, foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, and choriocapillaris blood flow over time and correlated these variables with ellipsoid zone (EZ) line width and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Perfusion density decreased by 2.42 ± 0.62% per year at the superior capillary plexus (SCP) (P = 0.001) and 2.41 ± 0.76% per year at the deep capillary plexus (DCP) (P = 0.004). FAZ area increased by 0.078 ± 0.021 mm2 per year (P = 0.001) at the SCP and 0.152 ± 0.039 mm2 per year (P = 0.001) at the DCP. No changes were observed in the choriocapillaris blood flow. EZ line width had the strongest correlation to perfusion density at the SCP (r = 0.660 and 0.635, first and second visit, respectively, P = 0.001), while BCVA most strongly correlated with FAZ area at the SCP (r = 0.679 and 0.548, P = 0.001 and 0.003). Our results suggest that OCT-A is a useful tool for monitoring RP disease progression and may be used to measure retinal vascular parameters as outcomes in clinical trials.
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Hassall MM, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE. Gene Therapy for Color Blindness. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 90:543-551. [PMID: 29259520 PMCID: PMC5733843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Achromatopsia is a rare congenital cause of vision loss due to isolated cone photoreceptor dysfunction. The most common underlying genetic mutations are autosomal recessive changes in CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6H, PDE6C, or ATF6. Animal models of Cnga3, Cngb3, and Gnat2 have been rescued using AAV gene therapy; showing partial restoration of cone electrophysiology and integration of this new photopic vision in reflexive and behavioral visual tests. Three gene therapy phase I/II trials are currently being conducted in human patients in the USA, the UK, and Germany. This review details the AAV gene therapy treatments of achromatopsia to date. We also present novel data showing rescue of a Cnga3-/- mouse model using an rAAV.CBA.CNGA3 vector. We conclude by synthesizing the implications of this animal work for ongoing human trials, particularly, the challenge of restoring integrated cone retinofugal pathways in an adult visual system. The evidence to date suggests that gene therapy for achromatopsia will need to be applied early in childhood to be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark M. Hassall
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK,To whom all correspondence should be addressed: Dr. Mark M. Hassall, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Level 6, West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford, UK, OX3 9DU, Tel: +44 1865 234768, .
| | - Alun R. Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Awwad S, Mohamed Ahmed AHA, Sharma G, Heng JS, Khaw PT, Brocchini S, Lockwood A. Principles of pharmacology in the eye. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:4205-4223. [PMID: 28865239 PMCID: PMC5715579 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The eye is a highly specialized organ that is subject to a huge range of pathology. Both local and systemic disease may affect different anatomical regions of the eye. The least invasive routes for ocular drug administration are topical (e.g. eye drops) and systemic (e.g. tablets) formulations. Barriers that subserve as protection against pathogen entry also restrict drug permeation. Topically administered drugs often display limited bioavailability due to many physical and biochemical barriers including the pre-corneal tear film, the structure and biophysiological properties of the cornea, the limited volume that can be accommodated by the cul-de-sac, the lacrimal drainage system and reflex tearing. The tissue layers of the cornea and conjunctiva are further key factors that act to restrict drug delivery. Using carriers that enhance viscosity or bind to the ocular surface increases bioavailability. Matching the pH and polarity of drug molecules to the tissue layers allows greater penetration. Drug delivery to the posterior segment is a greater challenge and, currently, the standard route is via intravitreal injection, notwithstanding the risks of endophthalmitis and retinal detachment with frequent injections. Intraocular implants that allow sustained drug release are at different stages of development. Novel exciting therapeutic approaches include methods for promoting transscleral delivery, sustained release devices, nanotechnology and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Awwad
- UCL School of PharmacyLondonUK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
| | - Abeer H A Mohamed Ahmed
- UCL School of PharmacyLondonUK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
| | - Garima Sharma
- UCL School of PharmacyLondonUK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
| | - Jacob S Heng
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
| | - Peng T Khaw
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
| | - Steve Brocchini
- UCL School of PharmacyLondonUK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
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Hickey DG, Edwards TL, Barnard AR, Singh MS, de Silva SR, McClements ME, Flannery JG, Hankins MW, MacLaren RE. Tropism of engineered and evolved recombinant AAV serotypes in the rd1 mouse and ex vivo primate retina. Gene Ther 2017; 24:787-800. [PMID: 28872643 PMCID: PMC5746594 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2017.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
There is much debate on the adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype that best targets specific retinal cell types and the route of surgical delivery-intravitreal or subretinal. This study compared three of the most efficacious AAV vectors known to date in a mouse model of retinal degeneration (rd1 mouse) and macaque and human retinal explants. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) driven by a ubiquitous promoter was packaged into three AAV capsids: AAV2/8(Y733F), AAV2/2(quad Y-F) and AAV2/2(7m8). Overall, AAV2/2(7m8) transduced the largest area of retina and resulted in the highest level of GFP expression, followed by AAV2/2(quad Y-F) and AAV2/8(Y733F). AAV2/2(7m8) and AAV2/2(quad Y-F) both resulted in similar patterns of transduction whether they were injected intravitreally or subretinally. AAV2/8(Y733F) transduced a significantly smaller area of retina when injected intravitreally compared with subretinally. Retinal ganglion cells, horizontal cells and retinal pigment epithelium expressed relatively high levels of GFP in the mouse retina, whereas amacrine cells expressed low levels of GFP and bipolar cells were infrequently transduced. Cone cells were the most frequently transduced cell type in macaque retina explants, whereas Müller cells were the predominant transduced cell type in human retinal explants. Of the AAV serotypes tested, AAV2/2(7m8) was the most effective at transducing a range of cell types in degenerate mouse retina and macaque and human retinal explants.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Hickey
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - T L Edwards
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - A R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - M S Singh
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - S R de Silva
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - M E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J G Flannery
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - M W Hankins
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - R E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK.,Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
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Dias MF, Joo K, Kemp JA, Fialho SL, da Silva Cunha A, Woo SJ, Kwon YJ. Molecular genetics and emerging therapies for retinitis pigmentosa: Basic research and clinical perspectives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 63:107-131. [PMID: 29097191 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a hereditary retinopathy that affects about 2.5 million people worldwide. It is characterized with progressive loss of rods and cones and causes severe visual dysfunction and eventual blindness in bilateral eyes. In addition to more than 3000 genetic mutations from about 70 genes, a wide genetic overlap with other types of retinal dystrophies has been reported with RP. This diversity of genetic pathophysiology makes treatment extremely challenging. Although therapeutic attempts have been made using various pharmacologic agents (neurotrophic factors, antioxidants, and anti-apoptotic agents), most are not targeted to the fundamental cause of RP, and their clinical efficacy has not been clearly proven. Current therapies for RP in ongoing or completed clinical trials include gene therapy, cell therapy, and retinal prostheses. Gene therapy, a strategy to correct the genetic defects using viral or non-viral vectors, has the potential to achieve definitive treatment by replacing or silencing a causative gene. Among many clinical trials of gene therapy for hereditary retinal diseases, a phase 3 clinical trial of voretigene neparvovec (AAV2-hRPE65v2, Luxturna) recently showed significant efficacy for RPE65-mediated inherited retinal dystrophy including Leber congenital amaurosis and RP. It is about to be approved as the first ocular gene therapy biologic product. Despite current limitations such as limited target genes and indicated patients, modest efficacy, and the invasive administration method, development in gene editing technology and novel gene delivery carriers make gene therapy a promising therapeutic modality for RP and other hereditary retinal dystrophies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina França Dias
- School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kwangsic Joo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jessica A Kemp
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Silvia Ligório Fialho
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young Jik Kwon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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Ghasemi M, Alizadeh E, Saei Arezoumand K, Fallahi Motlagh B, Zarghami N. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) delivery to retina: an overview of current research advancements. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 46:1694-1707. [PMID: 29065723 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1391820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The intraocular administration of the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been found to attenuate the photoreceptor degeneration and preserve retinal functions in the animal research models of the inherited or induced retinal disease. Studies with the aim of CNTF transfer to the posterior segment inside the eye have been directed to determine the best method for its administration. An ideal delivery method would overcome the eye drug elimination mechanisms or barriers and provide the sustained release of the CNTF into retina in the safest fashion with the minimum harm to the quality of life. This review focuses on the present state of CNTF delivery to retina, also provides an overview of available technologies and their challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghasemi
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Khatereh Saei Arezoumand
- b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | | | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,d Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
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Kenny J, Forsythe E, Beales P, Bacchelli C. Toward personalized medicine in Bardet–Biedl syndrome. Per Med 2017; 14:447-456. [DOI: 10.2217/pme-2017-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Personalized medicine is becoming routine in the treatment of common diseases such as cancer, but has lagged behind in the field of rare diseases. It is currently in the early stages for the treatment of Bardet–Biedl syndrome. Advances in the understanding of ciliary biology and diagnostic techniques have opened up the prospect of treating BBS in a patient-specific manner. Owing to their structure and function, cilia provide an attractive therapeutic target and genetic therapies are being explored in ciliopathy treatment. Promising avenues include gene therapy, gene editing techniques and splice-correcting and read-through therapies. Targeted drug design has been successful in the treatment of genetic disease and research is underway in the discovery of known and novel drugs to treat Bardet–Biedl syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kenny
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford St, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Elizabeth Forsythe
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford St, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Philip Beales
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford St, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Chiara Bacchelli
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford St, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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42
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Gupta PR, Huckfeldt RM. Gene therapy for inherited retinal degenerations: initial successes and future challenges. J Neural Eng 2017; 14:051002. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa7a27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Fischer MD, Hickey DG, Singh MS, MacLaren RE. Evaluation of an Optimized Injection System for Retinal Gene Therapy in Human Patients. Hum Gene Ther Methods 2017; 27:150-8. [PMID: 27480111 DOI: 10.1089/hgtb.2016.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many retinal gene therapy clinical trials require subretinal injections of small volumes of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector solutions in patients with retinal dystrophies, using equipment not specifically designed for this purpose. We therefore evaluated an optimized injection system in order to identify variables that might influence the rate of injection and final dose of vector delivered. An optimized injection system was assembled with a 41G polytetrafluoroethylene tip for retinal gene therapy. Flow rate was recorded at relevant infusion pressures (2-22 psi [14-152 kPa]), different target pressures (0.02-30 mm Hg [0.003-4 kPa]) and temperatures (18°C vs. 36°C) using a semiautomated Accurus(®) Surgical System. Retention of AAV2/8 and AAV2/8(Y733F) vector was quantified after simulating loading/injection with or without 0.001% Pluronic(®) F-68 (PF-68). The optimized injection system provided a linear flow rate (μl/s)-to-infusion pressure (psi) relationship (y = 0.62x; r(2) = 0.99), independent of temperature and pressure changes relevant for intraocular surgery (18-36°C, 0.02-30 mm Hg). Differences in length of 41G polytetrafluoroethylene tips caused significant variation in flow rate (p < 0.001). Use of PF-68 significantly (p < 0.001) reduced loss of vector genomes in the injection system by 55% (AAV2/8) and 52% (AAV2/8(Y733F)). A customized subretinal injection system assembled using equipment currently available in the operating room can deliver a controlled volume of vector at a fixed rate across a range of possible clinical parameters encountered in vitreoretinal surgery. The inclusion of 0.001% PF-68 had a significant effect on the final dose of vector genomes delivered. The described technique is currently used successfully in a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dominik Fischer
- 1 Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford , Oxford, United Kingdom.,2 Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford, United Kingdom.,3 University Eye Hospital , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Doron G Hickey
- 1 Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford , Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mandeep S Singh
- 1 Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford , Oxford, United Kingdom.,2 Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford, United Kingdom.,4 Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- 1 Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford , Oxford, United Kingdom.,2 Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust , Oxford, United Kingdom.,4 Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust , Oxford, United Kingdom
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44
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Fischer MD, McClements ME, Martinez-Fernandez de la Camara C, Bellingrath JS, Dauletbekov D, Ramsden SC, Hickey DG, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE. Codon-Optimized RPGR Improves Stability and Efficacy of AAV8 Gene Therapy in Two Mouse Models of X-Linked Retinitis Pigmentosa. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1854-1865. [PMID: 28549772 PMCID: PMC5542800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP) is generally a severe form of retinitis pigmentosa, a neurodegenerative, blinding disorder of the retina. 70% of XLRP cases are due to mutations in the retina-specific isoform of the gene encoding retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator (RPGRORF15). Despite successful RPGRORF15 gene replacement with adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors being established in a number of animal models of XLRP, progression to human trials has not yet been possible. The inherent sequence instability in the purine-rich region of RPGRORF15 (which contains highly repetitive nucleotide sequences) leads to unpredictable recombination errors during viral vector cloning. While deleted RPGR may show some efficacy in animal models, which have milder disease, the therapeutic effect of a mutated RPGR variant in patients with XLRP cannot be predicted. Here, we describe an optimized gene replacement therapy for human XLRP disease using an AAV8 vector that reliably and consistently produces the full-length correct RPGR protein. The glutamylation pattern in the RPGR protein derived from the codon-optimized sequence is indistinguishable from the wild-type variant, implying that codon optimization does not significantly alter post-translational modification. The codon-optimized sequence has superior stability and expression levels in vitro. Significantly, when delivered by AAV8 vector and driven by the rhodopsin kinase promoter, the codon-optimized RPGR rescues the disease phenotype in two relevant animal models (Rpgr−/y and C57BL/6JRd9/Boc) and shows good safety in C57BL6/J wild-type mice. This work provides the basis for clinical trial development to treat patients with XLRP caused by RPGR mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dominik Fischer
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; University Eye Hospital, Center for Opthalmology, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michelle E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Cristina Martinez-Fernandez de la Camara
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Julia-Sophia Bellingrath
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; University Eye Hospital, Center for Opthalmology, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniyar Dauletbekov
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; University Eye Hospital, Center for Opthalmology, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simon C Ramsden
- Centre for Genomic Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, M13 9WL Manchester, UK
| | - Doron G Hickey
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Alun R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, The John Radcliffe Hospital, Levels 5 & 6, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, The John Radcliffe Hospital, West Wing, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK.
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Bucher F, Walz JM, Bühler A, Aguilar E, Lange C, Diaz-Aguilar S, Martin G, Schlunck G, Agostini H, Friedlander M, Stahl A. CNTF Attenuates Vasoproliferative Changes Through Upregulation of SOCS3 in a Mouse-Model of Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:4017-26. [PMID: 27494343 PMCID: PMC4986766 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-18508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal vascular disease represents a major cause for vision loss in the Western world. Recent research has shown that neuronal and vascular damage are closely related in retinal disease. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a well-studied neurotrophic factor that is currently being tested in clinical trials for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases and macular telangiectasia. However, little is known about its effect on retinal vasculature. In this study, we investigate the effects of CNTF in retinal neovascular disease using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Methods Newborn pups were exposed to 75% oxygen from postnatal day (P)7 to P12 and subsequently returned to room air. Ciliary neurotrophic factor was injected intravitreally at OIR P12 and the vaso-obliterated and neovascular areas were quantified at OIR P17. Immunohistochemistry, RNA, and protein analysis were used to identify CNTF-responsive cells. In vitro experiments were performed to analyze the effect of CNTF on endothelial and astroglial cells. Results In the OIR model, CNTF facilitated capillary regrowth and attenuated preretinal neovascularization in a dose-dependent manner. The protective effect of CNTF was mediated via activation of the JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 signaling pathway. Immunohistochemical studies identified endothelial cells among others as CNTF-responsive cells in the retina. In vitro studies confirmed the anti-angiogenic effect of CNTF on endothelial cell sprouting. Conclusions This study provides evidence for a therapeutic potential of CNTF beyond degenerative retinal disease. Vasoproliferative retinopathies may benefit from a CNTF-dependent and SOCS3-mediated angiomodulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Bucher
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany 2Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Johanna M Walz
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany 3Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anima Bühler
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Edith Aguilar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Diaz-Aguilar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Friedlander
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
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46
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Petit L, Punzo C. Gene therapy approaches for the treatment of retinal disorders. DISCOVERY MEDICINE 2016; 22:221-229. [PMID: 27875674 PMCID: PMC5142441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
There is an impelling need to develop effective therapeutic strategies for patients with retinal disorders. Gleaning from the large quantity of information gathered over the past two decades on the mechanisms governing degeneration of the retina, it is now possible to devise innovative therapies based on retinal gene transfer. Different gene-based approaches are under active investigation. They include strategies to correct the specific genetic defect in inherited retinal diseases, strategies to delay the onset of blindness independently of the disease-causing mutations, and strategies to reactivate residual cells at late stages of the diseases. In this review, we discuss the status of application of these technologies, outlining the future therapeutic potential for many forms of retinal blinding diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lolita Petit
- Department of Ophthalmology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Claudio Punzo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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MacLaren RE, Bennett J, Schwartz SD. Gene Therapy and Stem Cell Transplantation in Retinal Disease: The New Frontier. Ophthalmology 2016; 123:S98-S106. [PMID: 27664291 PMCID: PMC5545086 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2016.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene and cell therapies have the potential to prevent, halt, or reverse diseases of the retina in patients with currently incurable blinding conditions. Over the past 2 decades, major advances in our understanding of the pathobiologic basis of retinal diseases, coupled with growth of gene transfer and cell transplantation biotechnologies, have created optimism that previously blinding retinal conditions may be treatable. It is now possible to deliver cloned genes safely and stably to specific retinal cell types in humans. Preliminary results testing gene augmentation strategies in human recessive diseases suggest promising safety and efficacy profiles, including improved visual function outcomes over extended periods. Additional gene-based strategies under development include approaches to autosomal dominant disease ("gain of function"), attempts to deliver genes encoding therapeutic proteins with proven mechanisms of action interfering with specific disease pathways, and approaches that could be used to render retinal cells other than atrophied photoreceptors light sensitive. In the programs that are the furthest along-pivotal regulatory safety and efficacy trials studying individuals with retinal degeneration resulting from RPE65 mutations-initial results reveal a robust safety profile and clinically significant improvements in visual function, thereby making this program a frontrunner for the first approved gene therapy product in the United States. Similar to gene therapy, progress in regenerative or stem cell-based transplantation strategies has been substantial. It is now possible to deliver safely stem cell-derived, terminally differentiated, biologically and genetically defined retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to the diseased human eye. Although demonstration of clinical efficacy is still well behind the gene therapy field, multiple programs investigating regenerative strategies in RPE disease are beginning to enroll subjects, and initial results suggest possible signs of efficacy. Stem cells capable of becoming other retinal cell types, such as photoreceptors, are on the cusp of clinical trials. Stem cell-derived transplants can be delivered to precise target locations in the eye, and their ability to ameliorate, reverse, regenerate, or neuroprotect against disease processes can be assessed. Results from these studies will provide foundational knowledge that may lead to clinically significant therapies for currently untreatable retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford and Oxford University Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom; Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Jean Bennett
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, Department of Ophthalmology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Steven D Schwartz
- Retina Division, Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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48
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Kimura A, Namekata K, Guo X, Harada C, Harada T. Neuroprotection, Growth Factors and BDNF-TrkB Signalling in Retinal Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17091584. [PMID: 27657046 PMCID: PMC5037849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors play key roles in the development and survival of neurons. The potent neuroprotective effects of neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), suggest that they are good therapeutic candidates for neurodegenerative diseases. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease of the eye that causes irreversible blindness. It is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, usually due to high intraocular pressure (IOP), and progressive degeneration of retinal neurons called retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Current therapy for glaucoma focuses on reduction of IOP, but neuroprotection may also be beneficial. BDNF is a powerful neuroprotective agent especially for RGCs. Exogenous application of BDNF to the retina and increased BDNF expression in retinal neurons using viral vector systems are both effective in protecting RGCs from damage. Furthermore, induction of BDNF expression by agents such as valproic acid has also been beneficial in promoting RGC survival. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of neurotrophic factors in retinal diseases and focus on the differential roles of glial and neuronal TrkB in neuroprotection. We also discuss the role of neurotrophic factors in neuroregeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Kimura
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiko Namekata
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Chikako Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Takayuki Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
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49
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Josephy-Hernandez S, Jmaeff S, Pirvulescu I, Aboulkassim T, Saragovi HU. Neurotrophin receptor agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents: An evolving paradigm. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 97:139-155. [PMID: 27546056 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are prevalent, complex and devastating conditions, with very limited treatment options currently available. While they manifest in many forms, there are commonalities that link them together. In this review, we will focus on neurotrophins - a family of related factors involved in neuronal development and maintenance. Neurodegenerative diseases often present with a neurotrophin imbalance, in which there may be decreases in trophic signaling through Trk receptors for example, and/or increases in pro-apoptotic activity through p75. Clinical trials with neurotrophins have continuously failed due to their poor pharmacological properties as well as the unavoidable activation of p75. Thus, there is a need for drugs without such setbacks. Small molecule neurotrophin mimetics are favorable options since they can selectively activate Trks or inactivate p75. In this review, we will initially present a brief outline of how these molecules are synthesized and their mechanisms of action; followed by an update in the current state of neurotrophins and small molecules in major neurodegenerative diseases. Although there has been significant progress in the development of potential therapeutics, more studies are needed to establish clear mechanisms of action and target specificity in order to transition from animal models to the assessment of safety and use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Josephy-Hernandez
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sean Jmaeff
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Iulia Pirvulescu
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tahar Aboulkassim
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - H Uri Saragovi
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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50
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Barnea-Cramer AO, Wang W, Lu SJ, Singh MS, Luo C, Huo H, McClements ME, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE, Lanza R. Function of human pluripotent stem cell-derived photoreceptor progenitors in blind mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29784. [PMID: 27405580 PMCID: PMC4942817 DOI: 10.1038/srep29784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor degeneration due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a primary cause of inherited retinal blindness. Photoreceptor cell-replacement may hold the potential for repair in a completely degenerate retina by reinstating light sensitive cells to form connections that relay information to downstream retinal layers. This study assessed the therapeutic potential of photoreceptor progenitors derived from human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (ESCs and iPSCs) using a protocol that is suitable for future clinical trials. ESCs and iPSCs were cultured in four specific stages under defined conditions, resulting in generation of a near-homogeneous population of photoreceptor-like progenitors. Following transplantation into mice with end-stage retinal degeneration, these cells differentiated into photoreceptors and formed a cell layer connected with host retinal neurons. Visual function was partially restored in treated animals, as evidenced by two visual behavioral tests. Furthermore, the magnitude of functional improvement was positively correlated with the number of engrafted cells. Similar efficacy was observed using either ESCs or iPSCs as source material. These data validate the potential of human pluripotent stem cells for photoreceptor replacement therapies aimed at photoreceptor regeneration in retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei Wang
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Shi-Jiang Lu
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Mandeep S Singh
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, England
| | - Chenmei Luo
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Hongguang Huo
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | | | - Alun R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, England.,Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, England
| | - Robert Lanza
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
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