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Lunau K, Dyer AG. The modelling of flower colour: spectral purity or colour contrast as biologically relevant descriptors of flower colour signals for bees depending upon the perceptual task. PLANT BIOLOGY (STUTTGART, GERMANY) 2024. [PMID: 38958933 DOI: 10.1111/plb.13682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Flower colour is an important mediator of plant-pollinator interactions. While the reflectance of light from the flower surface and background are governed by physical properties, the perceptual interpretation of such information is generated by complex multilayered visual processing. Should quantitative modelling of flower signals strive for repeatable consistency enabled by parameter simplification, or should modelling reflect the dynamic way in which bees are known to process signals? We discuss why colour is an interpretation of spectral information by the brain of an animal. Different species, or individuals within a species, may respond differently to colour signals depending on sensory apparatus and/or individual experience. Humans and bees have different spectral ranges, but colour theory is strongly rooted in human colour perception and many principles of colour vision appear to be common. We discuss bee colour perception based on physiological, neuroanatomical and behavioural evidence to provide a pathway for modelling flower colours. We examine whether flower petals and floral guides as viewed against spectrally different backgrounds should be considered as a simple colour contrast problem or require a more dynamic consideration of how bees make perceptual decisions. We discuss that plants such as deceptive orchids may present signals to exploit bee perception, whilst many plants do provide honest signalling where perceived saturation indicates the probability of collecting nutritional rewards towards the centre of a flower that then facilitates effective pollination.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Lunau
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institute of Sensory Ecology, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - A G Dyer
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie, und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg Universität, Mainz, Germany
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Becker S, L'Ecuyer Z, Jones BW, Zouache MA, McDonnell FS, Vinberg F. Modeling complex age-related eye disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101247. [PMID: 38365085 PMCID: PMC11268458 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Modeling complex eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma poses significant challenges, since these conditions depend highly on age-related changes that occur over several decades, with many contributing factors remaining unknown. Although both diseases exhibit a relatively high heritability of >50%, a large proportion of individuals carrying AMD- or glaucoma-associated genetic risk variants will never develop these diseases. Furthermore, several environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to and modulate the pathogenesis and progression of AMD and glaucoma. Several strategies replicate the impact of genetic risk variants, pathobiological pathways and environmental and lifestyle factors in AMD and glaucoma in mice and other species. In this review we will primarily discuss the most commonly available mouse models, which have and will likely continue to improve our understanding of the pathobiology of age-related eye diseases. Uncertainties persist whether small animal models can truly recapitulate disease progression and vision loss in patients, raising doubts regarding their usefulness when testing novel gene or drug therapies. We will elaborate on concerns that relate to shorter lifespan, body size and allometries, lack of macula and a true lamina cribrosa, as well as absence and sequence disparities of certain genes and differences in their chromosomal location in mice. Since biological, rather than chronological, age likely predisposes an organism for both glaucoma and AMD, more rapidly aging organisms like small rodents may open up possibilities that will make research of these diseases more timely and financially feasible. On the other hand, due to the above-mentioned anatomical and physiological features, as well as pharmacokinetic and -dynamic differences small animal models are not ideal to study the natural progression of vision loss or the efficacy and safety of novel therapies. In this context, we will also discuss the advantages and pitfalls of alternative models that include larger species, such as non-human primates and rabbits, patient-derived retinal organoids, and human organ donor eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Becker
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Zia L'Ecuyer
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bryan W Jones
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Moussa A Zouache
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Fiona S McDonnell
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Frans Vinberg
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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3
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Sechrest ER, Barbera RJ, Ma X, Dyka F, Ahn J, Brothers BA, Cahill ME, Hall I, Baehr W, Deng WT. Expression of red/green-cone opsin mutants K82E, P187S, M273K result in unique pathobiological perturbations to cone structure and function. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1368089. [PMID: 38410159 PMCID: PMC10895044 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1368089] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-and middle-wavelength cone photoreceptors, which are responsible for our visual acuity and color vision, comprise ~95% of our total cone population and are concentrated in the fovea of our retina. Previously, we characterized the disease mechanisms of the L/M-cone opsin missense mutations N94K, W177R, P307L, R330Q and G338E, all of which are associated with congenital blue cone monochromacy (BCM) or color-vision deficiency. Here, we used a similar viral vector-based gene delivery approach in M-opsin knockout mice to investigate the pathogenic consequences of the BCM or color-vision deficient associated L-cone opsin (OPN1LW) mutants K82E, P187S, and M273K. We investigated their subcellular localization, the pathogenic effects on cone structure, function, and cone viability. K82E mutants were detected predominately in cone outer segments, and its expression partially restored expression and correct localization of cone PDE6α' and cone transducin γ. As a result, K82E also demonstrated the ability to mediate cone light responses. In contrast, expression of P187S was minimally detected by either western blot or by immunohistochemistry, probably due to efficient degradation of the mutant protein. M273K cone opsin appeared to be misfolded as it was primarily localized to the cone inner segment and endoplasmic reticulum. Additionally, M273K did not restore the expression of cone PDE6α' and cone transducin γ in dorsal cone OS, presumably by its inability to bind 11-cis retinal. Consistent with the observed expression pattern, P187S and M273K cone opsin mutants were unable to mediate light responses. Moreover, expression of K82E, P187S, and M273K mutants reduced cone viability. Due to the distinct expression patterns and phenotypic differences of these mutants observed in vivo, we suggest that the pathobiological mechanisms of these mutants are distinct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Sechrest
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Robert J. Barbera
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Xiaojie Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Frank Dyka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Junyeop Ahn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Brooke A. Brothers
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Marion E. Cahill
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
- Department of Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Isaac Hall
- Department of Natural Sciences, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, United States
| | - Wolfgang Baehr
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
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4
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Sechrest ER, Ma X, Cahill ME, Barbera RJ, Wang Y, Deng WT. Structural and functional rescue of cones carrying the most common cone opsin C203R missense mutation. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e172834. [PMID: 38060327 PMCID: PMC10906232 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
An arginine to cysteine substitution at amino acid position 203 (C203R) is the most common missense mutation in human cone opsin. Linked to color blindness and blue cone monochromacy (BCM), C203 is involved in a crucial disulfide bond required for proper folding. It has previously been postulated that expression of mutant C203R cone opsin exerts a toxic effect on cone photoreceptors, similar to some well-characterized missense mutations in rhodopsin that lead to protein misfolding. In this study, we generated and characterized a BCM mouse model carrying the equivalent C203R mutation (Opn1mwC198R Opn1sw-/-) to investigate the disease mechanism and develop a gene therapy approach for this disorder. Untreated Opn1mwC198R Opn1sw-/- cones phenocopied affected cones in human patients with the equivalent mutation, exhibiting shortened or absent cone outer segments and loss of function. We determined that gene augmentation targeting cones specifically yielded robust rescue of cone function and structure when Opn1mwC198R Opn1sw-/- mice were treated at early ages. Importantly, treated cones displayed elaborated outer segments and replenished expression of crucial cone phototransduction proteins. Interestingly, we were unable to detect OPN1MWC198R mutant opsin at any age. We believe this is the first proof-of-concept study exploring the efficacy of gene therapy in BCM associated with a C203R mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Sechrest
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Xiaojie Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Marion E. Cahill
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
- Department of Biology and
| | - Robert J. Barbera
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Yixiao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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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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McKyton A, Marks Ohana D, Nahmany E, Banin E, Levin N. Seeing color following gene augmentation therapy in achromatopsia. Curr Biol 2023; 33:3489-3494.e2. [PMID: 37433300 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
How will people who spent their visual lives with only rods respond to cone function restoration? Will they be able suddenly see the colors of the rainbow? CNGA3-achromatopsia is a congenital hereditary disease in which cone dysfunction leads patients to have rod photoreceptor-driven vision only in daylight,1,2,3,4 seeing the world in blurry shades of gray.5,6 We studied color perception in four CNGA3-achromatopsia patients following monocular retinal gene augmentation therapy.7,8,9 Following treatment, although some cortical changes were reported,3,4 patients did not report a dramatic change in their vision.3,9 However, in accordance with the fact that sensitivity of rods and cones is most different at long wavelengths, they consistently reported seeing red objects on dark backgrounds differently than they did before surgery.3 Because clinical color assessments failed to find any indication of color vision, we conducted a gamut of tailored tests to better define patients' descriptions. We evaluated patients' perceived lightness of different colors, color detection, and saliency, comparing their treated with their untreated eyes. Although the perceived lightness of different colors was generally similar between the eyes and matched a rod-input model, patients could detect a colored stimulus only in their treated eyes. In a search task, long response times, which were further extended with array size, suggested low saliency. We suggest that treated CNGA3-achromatopsia patients can perceive a stimulus's color attribute, although in a manner that is different and very limited compared with sighted individuals. We discuss the retinal and cortical obstacles that might explain this perceptual gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayelet McKyton
- fMRI Unit, Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Devora Marks Ohana
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations (CRMD), Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Einav Nahmany
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations (CRMD), Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations (CRMD), Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Netta Levin
- fMRI Unit, Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Organization and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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7
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Hanna K, Nieves J, Dowd C, Bender KO, Sharma P, Singh B, Renz M, Ver Hoeve JN, Cepeda D, Gelfman CM, Riley BE, Grishanin RN. Preclinical evaluation of ADVM-062, a novel intravitreal gene therapy vector for the treatment of blue cone monochromacy. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2014-2027. [PMID: 36932675 PMCID: PMC10362383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Blue cone monochromacy (BCM) is a rare X-linked retinal disease characterized by the absence of L- and M-opsin in cone photoreceptors, considered a potential gene therapy candidate. However, most experimental ocular gene therapies utilize subretinal vector injection which would pose a risk to the fragile central retinal structure of BCM patients. Here we describe the use of ADVM-062, a vector optimized for cone-specific expression of human L-opsin and administered using a single intravitreal (IVT) injection. Pharmacological activity of ADVM-062 was established in gerbils, whose cone-rich retina naturally lacks L-opsin. A single IVT administration dose of ADVM-062 effectively transduced gerbil cone photoreceptors and produced a de novo response to long-wavelength stimuli. To identify potential first-in-human doses we evaluated ADVM-062 in non-human primates. Cone-specific expression of ADVM-062 in primates was confirmed using ADVM-062.myc, a vector engineered with the same regulatory elements as ADVM-062. Enumeration of human OPN1LW.myc-positive cones demonstrated that doses ≥3 × 1010 vg/eye resulted in transduction of 18%-85% of foveal cones. A Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) toxicology study established that IVT administration of ADVM-062 was well tolerated at doses that could potentially achieve clinically meaningful effect, thus supporting the potential of ADVM-062 as a one-time IVT gene therapy for BCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Hanna
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Julio Nieves
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Christine Dowd
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Pallavi Sharma
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Baljit Singh
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Mark Renz
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Diana Cepeda
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Brigit E Riley
- Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA.
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Sechrest ER, Chmelik K, Tan WD, Deng WT. Blue cone monochromacy and gene therapy. Vision Res 2023; 208:108221. [PMID: 37001420 PMCID: PMC10182257 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2023.108221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Blue cone monochromacy (BCM) is a congenital vision disorder characterized by complete loss or severely reduced long- and middle-wavelength cone function, caused by mutations in the OPN1LW/OPN1MW gene cluster on the X-chromosome. BCM patients typically suffer from poor visual acuity, severely impaired color discrimination, myopia, and nystagmus. In this review, we cover the genetic causes of BCM, clinical features of BCM patients, genetic testing, and clinical outcome measurements for future BCM clinical trials. However, our emphasis is on detailing the animal models for BCM and gene therapy using adeno-associated vectors (AAV). We describe two mouse models resembling the two most common causes of BCM, current progress in proof-of-concept studies to treat BCM with deletion mutations, the challenges we face, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Sechrest
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States
| | - Kathryn Chmelik
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States; Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States
| | - Wendy D Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States; Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States.
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Jones MW, Hunt T. Electromagnetic-field theories of qualia: can they improve upon standard neuroscience? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1015967. [PMID: 37325753 PMCID: PMC10267331 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1015967] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
How do brains create all our different colors, pains, and other conscious qualities? These various qualia are the most essential aspects of consciousness. Yet standard neuroscience (primarily based on synaptic information processing) has not found the synaptic-firing codes, sometimes described as the "spike code," to account for how these qualia arise and how they unite to form complex perceptions, emotions, et cetera. Nor is it clear how to get from these abstract codes to the qualia we experience. But electromagnetic field (versus synaptic) approaches to how qualia arise have been offered in recent years by Pockett, McFadden, Jones, Bond, Ward and Guevera, Keppler and Shani, Hunt and Schooler, et cetera. These EM-field approaches show promise in offering more viable accounts of qualia. Yet, until now, they have not been evaluated together. We review various EM field theories of qualia, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and contrast these theories with standard neuroscience approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tam Hunt
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
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10
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Abstract
Neuroplasticity and evolutionary biology have been prominent fields of study for well over a century. However, they have advanced largely independently, without consideration of the benefits of integration. We propose a new framework by which researchers can begin to examine the evolutionary causes and consequences of neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity can be defined as changes to the structure, function or connections of the nervous system in response to individual experience. Evolution can alter levels of neuroplasticity if there is variation in neuroplasticity traits within and between populations. Neuroplasticity may be favored or disfavored by natural selection depending on the variability of the environment and the costs of neuroplasticity. Additionally, neuroplasticity may affect rates of genetic evolution in many ways: for example, decreasing rates of evolution by buffering against selection or increasing them via the Baldwin effect, by increasing genetic variation or by incorporating evolved peripheral changes to the nervous system. These mechanisms can be tested using comparative and experimental approaches and by examining patterns and consequences of variation in neuroplasticity among species, populations and individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb J Axelrod
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Swanne P Gordon
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Bruce A Carlson
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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11
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Garcia-Martin E, Fuentes-Bernal JL, Otin S, Monreal A, Cordon B, Vilades E, Fuertes-Lazaro MI. Assessment of visual function and the neuroretina in subjects diagnosed with congenital anomaly of color vision. OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 31:5625-5639. [PMID: 36823837 DOI: 10.1364/oe.461872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional and observational study includes 50 eyes of subjects with color blindness and 50 eyes of control subjects. Visual function (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and color vision) and neuroretinal structure were assessed in all subjects using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Significant thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, and retina were observed in the color blindness group. Significant thinning was also recorded in layers that involve photoreceptor nuclei (between the outer limiting layer and the Bruch membrane and between the outer plexiform layer and the outer limiting membrane). OCT evaluation based on retinal segmentation is a rapid (5-10 minutes) non-invasive technique and seems to be a good biomarker of color blindness.
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Mascio AA, Roman AJ, Cideciyan AV, Sheplock R, Wu V, Garafalo AV, Sumaroka A, Pirkle S, Kohl S, Wissinger B, Jacobson SG, Barbur JL. Color Vision in Blue Cone Monochromacy: Outcome Measures for a Clinical Trial. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:25. [PMID: 36692456 PMCID: PMC9896867 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.1.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Blue cone monochromacy (BCM) is an X-linked retinopathy due to mutations in the OPN1LW/OPN1MW gene cluster. Symptoms include reduced visual acuity and disturbed color vision. We studied BCM color vision to determine outcome measures for future clinical trials. Methods Patients with BCM and normal-vision participants were examined with Farnsworth-Munsell (FM) arrangement tests and the Color Assessment and Diagnosis (CAD) test. A retrospective case series in 36 patients with BCM (ages 6-70) was performed with the FM D-15 test. A subset of six patients also had Roth-28 Hue and CAD tests. Results All patients with BCM had abnormal results for D-15, Roth-28, and CAD tests. With D-15, there was protan-deutan confusion and no bimodal tendency. Roth-28 results reinforced that finding. There was symmetry in color vision metrics between the two eyes and coherence between sessions with the arrangement tests and CAD. Severe abnormalities in red-green sensitivity with CAD were expected. Unexpected were different levels of yellow-blue results with two patterns of abnormal thresholds: moderate elevation in two younger patients and severe elevation in four patients ≥35 years. Coefficients of repeatability and intersession means were tabulated for all test modalities. Conclusions Given understanding of advantages, disadvantages, and complexities of interpretation of results, both an arrangement test and CAD should be useful monitors of color vision through a clinical trial in BCM. Translational Relevance Our pilot studies in BCM of arrangement and CAD tests indicated both were clinically feasible and interpretable in the context of this cone gene disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham A. Mascio
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alejandro J. Roman
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Artur V. Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Sheplock
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vivian Wu
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alexandra V. Garafalo
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alexander Sumaroka
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sydney Pirkle
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Samuel G. Jacobson
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John L. Barbur
- Centre for Applied Vision Research, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
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13
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Eagleman DM, Perrotta MV. The future of sensory substitution, addition, and expansion via haptic devices. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 16:1055546. [PMID: 36712151 PMCID: PMC9880183 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.1055546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Haptic devices use the sense of touch to transmit information to the nervous system. As an example, a sound-to-touch device processes auditory information and sends it to the brain via patterns of vibration on the skin for people who have lost hearing. We here summarize the current directions of such research and draw upon examples in industry and academia. Such devices can be used for sensory substitution (replacing a lost sense, such as hearing or vision), sensory expansion (widening an existing sensory experience, such as detecting electromagnetic radiation outside the visible light spectrum), and sensory addition (providing a novel sense, such as magnetoreception). We review the relevant literature, the current status, and possible directions for the future of sensory manipulation using non-invasive haptic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Eagleman
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States,Neosensory, Palo Alto, CA, United States,*Correspondence: David M. Eagleman ✉
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14
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Valero EM, Neitz J, Drum B. Aids for color vision deficiency: introduction to the feature issue. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:46560-46563. [PMID: 36558607 DOI: 10.1364/oe.480473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 8% of Caucasian males and 0.5% of females have congenital red-green color vision deficiencies (CVD), and a number of eye diseases are accompanied by acquired CVD. This feature issue includes ten contributions regarding existing and proposed algorithms and devices intended to help CVD subjects compensate for their color deficiencies. It also addresses limitations in the effectiveness of CVD aids for subjects with different types and degrees of color vision deficiency.
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15
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Bosten JM, Coen-Cagli R, Franklin A, Solomon SG, Webster MA. Calibrating Vision: Concepts and Questions. Vision Res 2022; 201:108131. [PMID: 37139435 PMCID: PMC10151026 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2022.108131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The idea that visual coding and perception are shaped by experience and adjust to changes in the environment or the observer is universally recognized as a cornerstone of visual processing, yet the functions and processes mediating these calibrations remain in many ways poorly understood. In this article we review a number of facets and issues surrounding the general notion of calibration, with a focus on plasticity within the encoding and representational stages of visual processing. These include how many types of calibrations there are - and how we decide; how plasticity for encoding is intertwined with other principles of sensory coding; how it is instantiated at the level of the dynamic networks mediating vision; how it varies with development or between individuals; and the factors that may limit the form or degree of the adjustments. Our goal is to give a small glimpse of an enormous and fundamental dimension of vision, and to point to some of the unresolved questions in our understanding of how and why ongoing calibrations are a pervasive and essential element of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruben Coen-Cagli
- Department of Systems Computational Biology, and Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY
| | | | - Samuel G Solomon
- Institute of Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, University College London, UK
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16
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Patterson EJ, Mastey RR, Kuchenbecker JA, Rowlan J, Neitz J, Neitz M, Carroll J. Effects of color-enhancing glasses on color vision in congenital red-green color deficiencies. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:31182-31194. [PMID: 36242206 PMCID: PMC9576280 DOI: 10.1364/oe.451295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As commercially available glasses for color vision deficiency (CVD) are classified as low risk, they are not subject to stringent marketing regulations. We investigate how EnChroma and VINO glasses affect performance on the Colour Assessment and Diagnosis (CAD) test in individuals with CVD. Data were obtained from 51 individuals with red-green CVD. Blood or saliva samples were collected to examine the structure of the OPN1LW/OPN1MW array. Individuals completed the CAD test twice without glasses and once with each pair of glasses. Although there was a statistically significant effect of both glasses, only that of VINO could be considered functionally meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. J. Patterson
- Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, 925 North 87th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Equal contributors
| | - R. R. Mastey
- Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, 925 North 87th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Equal contributors
| | | | - J. Rowlan
- Ophthalmology, 750 Republican Street Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - J. Neitz
- Ophthalmology, 750 Republican Street Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - M. Neitz
- Ophthalmology, 750 Republican Street Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - J. Carroll
- Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, 925 North 87th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 West Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226, USA
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17
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Ma X, Sechrest ER, Fajardo D, Zhu P, Dyka F, Wang Y, Lobanova E, Boye SE, Baehr W, Deng WT. Gene Therapy in Opn1mw-/-/Opn1sw-/- Mice and Implications for Blue Cone Monochromacy Patients with Deletion Mutations. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:708-718. [PMID: 35272502 PMCID: PMC9347391 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Blue cone monochromacy (BCM) is a congenital vision disorder affecting both middle-wavelength (M) and long-wavelength (L) cone photoreceptors of the human retina. BCM results from abolished expression of green and red light-sensitive visual pigments expressed in M- and L-cones, respectively. Previously, we showed that gene augmentation therapy to deliver either human L- or M-opsin rescues dorsal M-opsin dominant cone photoreceptors structurally and functionally in treated M-opsin knockout (Opn1mw-/-) mice. Although Opn1mw-/- mice represent a disease model for BCM patients with deletion mutations, at the cellular level, dorsal cones of Opn1mw-/- mice still express low levels of S-opsin, which are different from L- and M-cones of BCM patients carrying a congenital opsin deletion. To determine whether BCM cones lacking complete opsin expression from birth would benefit from AAV-mediated gene therapy, we evaluated the outcome of gene therapy, and determined the therapeutic window and longevity of rescue in a mouse model lacking both M- and S-opsin (Opn1mw-/-/Opn1sw-/-). Our data show that cones of Opn1mw-/-/Opn1sw-/- mice are viable at younger ages but undergo rapid degeneration. AAV-mediated expression of human L-opsin promoted cone outer segment regeneration and rescued cone-mediated function when mice were injected subretinally at 2 months of age or younger. Cone-mediated function and visually guided behavior were maintained for at least 8 months post-treatment. However, when mice were treated at 5 and 7 months of age, the chance and effectiveness of rescue was significantly reduced, although cones were still present in the retina. Crossing Opn1mw-/-/Opn1sw-/- mice with proteasomal activity reporter mice (UbG76V-GFP) did not reveal GFP accumulation in Opn1mw-/-/Opn1sw-/- cones eliminating impaired degradation of ubiquitinated proteins as stress factor contributing to cone loss. Our results demonstrate that AAV-mediated gene augmentation therapy can rescue cone structure and function in a mouse model with a congenital opsin deletion, but also emphasize the importance that early intervention is crucial for successful therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiajie Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Emily R. Sechrest
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Diego Fajardo
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics; University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ping Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Frank Dyka
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Yixiao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ekaterina Lobanova
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Shannon E. Boye
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics; University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Wolfgang Baehr
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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18
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Abstract
In our tendency to discuss the objective properties of the external world, we may fail to notice that our subjective perceptions of those properties differ between individuals. Variability at all levels of the color vision system creates diversity in color perception, from discrimination to color matching, appearance, and subjective experience, such that each of us lives in a unique perceptual world. In this review, I discuss what is known about individual differences in color perception and its determinants, particularly considering genetically mediated variability in cone photopigments and the paradoxical effects of visual environments in both contributing to and counteracting individual differences. I make the case that, as well as being of interest in their own right and crucial for a complete account of color vision, individual differences can be used as a methodological tool in color science for the insights that they offer about the underlying mechanisms of perception. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Vision Science, Volume 8 is September 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny M Bosten
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom;
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19
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Taore A, Lobo G, Turnbull PR, Dakin SC. Diagnosis of colour vision deficits using eye movements. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7734. [PMID: 35562176 PMCID: PMC9095692 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We set out to develop a simple objective test of functional colour vision based on eye movements made in response to moving patterns. We exploit the finding that while the motion of a colour-defined stimulus can be cancelled by adding a low-contrast luminance-defined stimulus moving in the opposite direction, the "equivalent luminance contrast" required for such cancellation is reduced when colour vision is abnormal. We used a consumer-grade infrared eye-tracker to measure eye movements made in response to coloured patterns drifting at different speeds. An automated analysis of these movements estimated individuals' red-green equiluminant point and their equivalent luminance contrast. We tested 34 participants: 23 colour vision normal controls, 9 deuteranomalous and 2 protanomalous individuals. We obtained reliable estimates of strength of directed eye movements (i.e. combined optokinetic and voluntary tracking) for stimuli moving at 16 deg/s and could use these data to classify participants' colour vision status with a sensitivity rate of 90.9% and a specificity rate of 91.3%. We conclude that an objective test of functional colour vision combining a motion-nulling technique with an automated analysis of eye movements can diagnose and assess the severity of protanopia and deuteranopia. The test places minimal demands on patients (who simply view a series of moving patterns for less than 90 s), requires modest operator expertise, and can be run on affordable hardware.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryaman Taore
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Gabriel Lobo
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Philip R Turnbull
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Steven C Dakin
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- New Zealand National Eye Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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20
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Roostaei N, Hamidi SM. Two-dimensional biocompatible plasmonic contact lenses for color blindness correction. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2037. [PMID: 35132172 PMCID: PMC8821612 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06089-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Color blindness, or color vision deficiency (CVD), is an ocular disease that suppresses the recognition of different colors. Recently, tinted glasses and lenses have been studied as hopeful devices for color blindness correction. In this study, 2D biocompatible and flexible plasmonic contact lenses were fabricated using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and a low-cost, and simple design based on the soft nano-lithography method and investigated for correction of red-green (deuteranomaly) color blindness. In addition, the stability test of the fabricated plasmonic contact lenses was investigated into the phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution and the proposed lens offers an excellent stability into the PBS solution. The plasmonic contact lens proposed herein is based on the plasmonic surface lattice resonance (SLR) phenomenon and offers a good color filter for color blindness correction. The biocompatibility, low cost, stability, and simple fabrication of these contact lenses can offer new insights for applications of color blindness correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Roostaei
- Magneto-Plasmonic Lab, Laser and Plasmonic Lab, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S M Hamidi
- Magneto-Plasmonic Lab, Laser and Plasmonic Lab, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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de Sousa AA, Todorov OS, Proulx MJ. A natural history of vertebrate vision loss: Insight from mammalian vision for human visual function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 134:104550. [PMID: 35074313 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Research on the origin of vision and vision loss in naturally "blind" animal species can reveal the tasks that vision fulfills and the brain's role in visual experience. Models that incorporate evolutionary history, natural variation in visual ability, and experimental manipulations can help disentangle visual ability at a superficial level from behaviors linked to vision but not solely reliant upon it, and could assist the translation of ophthalmological research in animal models to human treatments. To unravel the similarities between blind individuals and blind species, we review concepts of 'blindness' and its behavioral correlates across a range of species. We explore the ancestral emergence of vision in vertebrates, and the loss of vision in blind species with reference to an evolution-based classification scheme. We applied phylogenetic comparative methods to a mammalian tree to explore the evolution of visual acuity using ancestral state estimations. Future research into the natural history of vision loss could help elucidate the function of vision and inspire innovations in how to address vision loss in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A de Sousa
- Centre for Health and Cognition, Bath Spa University, Bath, United Kingdom; UKRI Centre for Accessible, Responsible & Transparent Artificial Intelligence (ART:AI), University of Bath, United Kingdom.
| | - Orlin S Todorov
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael J Proulx
- UKRI Centre for Accessible, Responsible & Transparent Artificial Intelligence (ART:AI), University of Bath, United Kingdom; Department of Psychology, REVEAL Research Centre, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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22
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González Bardeci N, Lagorio MG. A mathematical approach to assess the ability of light filters to improve color discriminability of color vision deficient persons. Heliyon 2021; 7:e08058. [PMID: 34622063 PMCID: PMC8482439 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Color vision deficiency (CVD) is a frequent condition that alters color perception to such an extent that many people encounter serious difficulties on their everyday lives. In this work, we present a strategy to analyze the effectiveness of light filters aimed to improve color discriminability of persons with CVD. The calculations are based on a simple model of color discrimination which has been successfully applied to several animal species. We first tested the calculations on three well-known commercial lenses designed for persons with CVD. In agreement with results of clinical studies, the calculations show that the highly colored lenses (VINO® and X-Chrom®) enhance chromaticity contrasts between problematic colors, whereas the more neutral Enchroma® do not provide any benefit. Also, we predict that two light filters proposed in recent works for novel lenses would not improve the performance of the commercial ones. Since the mathematical approach presented in this work enables predictive filter assessment, it opens the door to future research on the design of more effective lenses to improve color discriminability of persons with CVD. The calculations allow for large-scale screening of numerous light filters and different colored stimuli, CVD conditions, light sources, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás González Bardeci
- CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, INQUIMAE, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Analítica y Química Física, Ciudad Universitaria. Pabellón II, 1er piso, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Gabriela Lagorio
- CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, INQUIMAE, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Analítica y Química Física, Ciudad Universitaria. Pabellón II, 1er piso, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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23
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Zhu P, Dyka F, Ma X, Yin L, Yu H, Baehr W, Hauswirth WW, Deng WT. Disease mechanisms of X-linked cone dystrophy caused by missense mutations in the red and green cone opsins. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21927. [PMID: 34547123 PMCID: PMC8462070 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101066r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cone photoreceptors are responsible for the visual acuity and color vision of the human eye. Red/green cone opsin missense mutations N94K, W177R, P307L, R330Q, and G338E have been identified in subjects with congenital blue cone monochromacy or color‐vision deficiency. Studies on disease mechanisms due to these cone opsin mutations have been previously carried out exclusively in vitro, and the reported impairments were not always consistent. Here we expressed these mutants via AAV specifically in vivo in M‐opsin knockout mouse cones to investigate their subcellular localization, the pathogenic effects on cone structure, function, and cone viability. We show that these mutations alter the M‐opsin structure, function, and localization. N94K and W177R mutants appeared to be misfolded since they localized exclusively in cone inner segments and endoplasmic reticulum. In contrast, P307L, R330Q, and G338E mutants were detected predominately in cone outer segments. Expression of R330Q and G338E, but not P307L opsins, also partially restored expression and correct localization of cone PDE6α’ and cone transducin γ and resulted in partial rescue of M‐cone‐mediated light responses. Expression of W177R and P307L mutants significantly reduced cone viability, whereas N94K, R330Q, and G338E were only modestly toxic. We propose that although the underlying biochemical and cellular defects caused by these mutants are distinct, they all seem to exhibit a dominant phenotype, resembling autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa associated with the majority of rhodopsin missense mutations. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with these cone opsin mutants is fundamental to developing targeted therapies for cone dystrophy/dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Frank Dyka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Xiaojie Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ling Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Heather Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Wolfgang Baehr
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - William W Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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24
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Iarossi G, Coppè AM, Passarelli C, Maltese PE, Sinibaldi L, Cappelli A, Cetola S, Novelli A, Buzzonetti L. Blue Cone Monochromatism with Foveal Hypoplasia Caused by the Concomitant Effect of Variants in OPN1LW/OPN1MW and GPR143 Genes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168617. [PMID: 34445325 PMCID: PMC8395340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168617] [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: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blue cone monochromatism (BCM) is an X-linked recessive cone dysfunction disorder caused by mutations in the OPN1LW/OPN1MW gene cluster, encoding long (L)- and middle (M)-wavelength-sensitive cone opsins. Here, we report on the unusual clinical presentation of BCM caused by a novel mutation in the OPN1LW gene in a young man. We describe in detail the phenotype of the proband, and the subclinical morpho-functional anomalies shown by his carrier mother. At a clinical level, the extensive functional evaluation demonstrated in the proband the M/L cone affection and the sparing of S-cone function, distinctive findings of BCM. Interestingly, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography showed the presence of foveal hypoplasia with focal irregularities of the ellipsoid layer in the foveal area, reported to be associated with some cases of cone-rod dystrophy and achromatopsia. At a molecular level, we identified the novel mutation c.427T > C p.(Ser143Pro) in the OPN1LW gene and the common missense mutation c.607T > C (p.Cys203Arg) in the OPN1MW gene. In addition, we discovered the c.768-2_769delAGTT splicing variant in the GPR143 gene. To our knowledge, this is the first case of foveal hypoplasia in a BCM patient and of mild clinical affection in a female carrier caused by the concomitant effect of variants in OPN1LW/OPN1MW and GPR143 genes, thus as the result of the simultaneous action of two independent genetic defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Iarossi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.C.); (A.C.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: (G.I.); (P.E.M.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-3362 (G.I.); +39-04-6442-0795 (P.E.M.)
| | - Andrea Maria Coppè
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.C.); (A.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Chiara Passarelli
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (L.S.); (S.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Paolo Enrico Maltese
- MAGI’S Lab s.r.l., 38068 Rovereto, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.I.); (P.E.M.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-3362 (G.I.); +39-04-6442-0795 (P.E.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Sinibaldi
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (L.S.); (S.C.); (A.N.)
- Rare Disease and Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cappelli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.C.); (A.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Sarah Cetola
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (L.S.); (S.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Antonio Novelli
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (L.S.); (S.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Luca Buzzonetti
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.M.C.); (A.C.); (L.B.)
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25
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Zhang F, Kurokawa K, Bernucci MT, Jung HW, Lassoued A, Crowell JA, Neitz J, Neitz M, Miller DT. Revealing How Color Vision Phenotype and Genotype Manifest in Individual Cone Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:8. [PMID: 33544131 PMCID: PMC7873503 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.2.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Psychophysical and genetic testing provide substantial information about color vision phenotype and genotype. However, neither reveals how color vision phenotypes and genotypes manifest themselves in individual cones, where color vision and its anomalies are thought to originate. Here, we use adaptive-optics phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography (AO-PSOCT) to investigate these relationships. Methods We used AO-PSOCT to measure cone function—optical response to light stimulation—in each of 16 human subjects with different phenotypes and genotypes of color vision (five color-normal, three deuteranopic, two protanopic, and six deuteranomalous trichromatic subjects). We classified three spectral types of cones (S, M, and L), and we measured cone structure—namely cone density, cone mosaic arrangement, and spatial arrangement of cone types. Results For the different phenotypes, our cone function results show that (1) color normals possess S, M, and L cones; (2) deuteranopes are missing M cones but are normal otherwise; (3) protanopes are missing L cones but are normal otherwise; and (4) deuteranomalous trichromats are missing M cones but contain evidence of at least two subtypes of L cones. Cone function was consistent with the subjects’ genotype in which only the first two M and L genes in the gene array are expressed and was correlated with the estimated spectral separation between photopigments, including in the deuteranomalous trichromats. The L/M cone ratio was highly variable in the color normals. No association was found between cone density and the genotypes and phenotypes investigated, and the cone mosaic arrangement was altered in the dichromats. Conclusions AO-PSOCT is a novel method for assessing color vision phenotype and genotype in single cone cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furu Zhang
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States.,Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Kazuhiro Kurokawa
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Marcel T Bernucci
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Hae Won Jung
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Ayoub Lassoued
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - James A Crowell
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Jay Neitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Maureen Neitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Donald T Miller
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
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26
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Chan YK, Dick AD, Hall SM, Langmann T, Scribner CL, Mansfield BC. Inflammation in Viral Vector-Mediated Ocular Gene Therapy: A Review and Report From a Workshop Hosted by the Foundation Fighting Blindness, 9/2020. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:3. [PMID: 34003982 PMCID: PMC8024774 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.4.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
On September 14–15, 2020, the Foundation Fighting Blindness convened a virtual workshop to discuss intraocular inflammation during viral vector-mediated gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases. The workshop's goals were to understand immune activation's nature and significance during ocular gene therapy, consider whether ocular inflammation limits gene therapy's potential, and identify knowledge gaps for future research. The event brought together a small group of experienced researchers in the field to present and discuss current data. Collectively, participants agreed that clinical, as well as subclinical, inflammation during ocular gene therapy is common. The severity of inflammation in both animal and clinical studies varied widely but is generally related to vector dose. Severe inflammation was associated with reduced gene therapy efficacy. However, the relationship between outcomes and subclinical inflammation, pre-existing antivector antibodies, or induced adaptive immune responses is still unclear. Uncertainties about the contribution of vector manufacturing issues to inflammation were also noted. Importantly, various immunosuppressive treatment protocols are being used, and this heterogeneity confounds conclusions about optimal strategies. Proposed near-term next steps include establishing an immunological consultant directory, establishing a data repository for pertinent animal and clinical data, and developing a larger meeting. Priority areas for future research include deeper understanding of immune activation during retinal diseases and during ocular gene therapy; better, harmonized application of animal models; and identifying best practices for managing gene therapy vector-related ocular inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew D Dick
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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27
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Salih AE, Elsherif M, Alam F, Yetisen AK, Butt H. Gold Nanocomposite Contact Lenses for Color Blindness Management. ACS NANO 2021; 15:4870-4880. [PMID: 33570901 PMCID: PMC8023801 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c09657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Color vision deficiency (CVD) is an ocular congenital disorder that affects 8% of males and 0.5% of females. The most prevalent form of color vision deficiency (color blindness) affects protans and deutans and is more commonly known as "red-green color blindness". Since there is no cure for this disorder, CVD patients opt for wearables that aid in enhancing their color perception. The most common wearable used by CVD patients is a form of tinted glass/lens. Those glasses filter out the problematic wavelengths (540-580 nm) for the red-green CVD patients using organic dyes. However, few studies have addressed the fabrication of contact lenses for color vision deficiency, and several problems related to their effectiveness and toxicity were reported. In this study, gold nanoparticles are integrated into contact lens material, thus forming nanocomposite contact lenses targeted for red-green CVD application. Three distinct sets of nanoparticles were characterized and incorporated with the hydrogel material of the lenses (pHEMA), and their resulting optical and material properties were assessed. The transmission spectra of the developed nanocomposite lenses were analogous to those of the commercial CVD wearables, and their water retention and wettability capabilities were superior to those in some of the commercially available contact lenses used for cosmetic/vision correction purposes. Hence, this work demonstrates the potential of gold nanocomposite lenses in CVD management and, more generally, color filtering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed E. Salih
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Elsherif
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fahad Alam
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ali K. Yetisen
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College
London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Haider Butt
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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28
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Muhammad K, Zhao J, Gao B, Feng Y. Polymeric nano-carriers for on-demand delivery of genes via specific responses to stimuli. J Mater Chem B 2021; 8:9621-9641. [PMID: 32955058 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb01675f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Polymeric nano-carriers have been developed as a most capable and feasible technology platform for gene therapy. As vehicles, polymeric nano-carriers are obliged to possess high gene loading capability, low immunogenicity, safety, and the ability to transfer various genetic materials into specific sites of target cells to express therapeutic proteins or block a process of gene expression. To this end, various types of polymeric nano-carriers have been prepared to release genes in response to stimuli such as pH, redox, enzymes, light and temperature. These stimulus-responsive nano-carriers exhibit high gene transfection efficiency and low cytotoxicity. In particular, dual- and multi-stimulus-responsive polymeric nano-carriers can respond to a combination of signals. Markedly, these combined responses take place either simultaneously or in a sequential manner. These dual-stimulus-responsive polymeric nano-carriers can control gene delivery with high gene transfection both in vitro and in vivo. In this review paper, we highlight the recent exciting developments in stimulus-responsive polymeric nano-carriers for gene delivery applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khan Muhammad
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
| | - Jing Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
| | - Bin Gao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
| | - Yakai Feng
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China. and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China and Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
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29
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Crane R, Conley SM, Al-Ubaidi MR, Naash MI. Gene Therapy to the Retina and the Cochlea. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:652215. [PMID: 33815052 PMCID: PMC8010260 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.652215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision and hearing disorders comprise the most common sensory disorders found in people. Many forms of vision and hearing loss are inherited and current treatments only provide patients with temporary or partial relief. As a result, developing genetic therapies for any of the several hundred known causative genes underlying inherited retinal and cochlear disorders has been of great interest. Recent exciting advances in gene therapy have shown promise for the clinical treatment of inherited retinal diseases, and while clinical gene therapies for cochlear disease are not yet available, research in the last several years has resulted in significant advancement in preclinical development for gene delivery to the cochlea. Furthermore, the development of somatic targeted genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 has brought new possibilities for the treatment of dominant or gain-of-function disease. Here we discuss the current state of gene therapy for inherited diseases of the retina and cochlea with an eye toward areas that still need additional development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shannon M. Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Oklahoma Center for Neurosciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Muayyad R. Al-Ubaidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- Depatment of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Muna I. Naash
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
- Depatment of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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30
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El Moussawi Z, Boueiri M, Al-Haddad C. Gene therapy in color vision deficiency: a review. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 41:1917-1927. [PMID: 33528822 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-01717-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Color vision deficiencies are a group of vision disorders, characterized by abnormal color discrimination. They include red-green color blindness, yellow-blue color blindness and achromatopsia, among others. The deficiencies are caused by mutations in the genes coding for various components of retinal cones. Gene therapy is rising as a promising therapeutic modality. The purpose of this review article is to explore the available literature on gene therapy in the different forms of color vision deficiencies. METHODS A thorough literature review was performed on PubMed using the keywords: color vision deficiencies, gene therapy, achromatopsia and the various genes responsible for this condition (OPN1LW, OPN1MW, ATF6, CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6H, and PDE6C). RESULTS Various adenovirus vectors have been deployed to test the efficacy of gene therapy for achromatopsia in animals and humans. Gene therapy trials in humans and animals targeting mutations in CNGA3 have been performed, demonstrating an improvement in electroretinogram (ERG)-investigated cone cell functionality. Similar outcomes have been reported for experimental studies on other genes (CNGB3, GNAT2, M- and L-opsin). It has also been reported that delivering the genes via intravitreal rather than subretinal injections could be safer. There are currently 3 ongoing human clinical trials for the treatment of achromatopsia due to mutations in CNGB3 and CNGA3. CONCLUSION Experimental studies and clinical trials generally showed improvement in ERG-investigated cone cell functionality and visually elicited behavior. Gene therapy is a promising novel therapeutic modality in color vision deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab El Moussawi
- Ophthalmology Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marguerita Boueiri
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical School, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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31
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Tummala G, Crain A, Rowlan J, Pepple KL. Characterization of Gene Therapy Associated Uveitis Following Intravitreal Adeno-Associated Virus Injection in Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:41. [PMID: 33630023 PMCID: PMC7910624 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.2.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To characterize the intraocular immune cell infiltrate induced by intravitreal adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy. Methods AAV vectors carrying plasmids expressing green fluorescent protein under the control of PR2.1 were injected intravitreally into AAV naive and AAV primed C57Bl/6 mice. Clinical inflammation was assessed using optical coherence tomography. Intraocular immune cell populations were identified and quantified by flow cytometry on days 1, 7, and 29 after intravitreal injection and compared with sham and fellow eye controls. Results Optical coherence tomography inflammation score and total CD45+ cell number were significantly higher in AAV injected eyes compared to uninjected fellow eye and sham injected controls. Clinically apparent inflammation (vitritis on optical coherence tomography) and cellular inflammation (CD45+ cell number) was significantly increased in AAV injected eyes and peaked around day 7. Vitritis resolved by day 29, but cellular inflammation persisted through day 29. On day 1, neutrophils and activated monocytes were the dominant cell populations in all AAV injected eyes. On day 7, eyes of AAV exposed animals had significantly more dendritic cells and T cells than eyes of AAV naive animals. By day 29, CD8- T cells were the dominant CD45+ cell population in AAV injected eyes. Conclusions Intravitreal AAV injection in mice generates clinically evident inflammation that is mild and seems to resolve spontaneously. However, the total number of intraocular CD45+ cells, particularly T cells, remain elevated. Both innate and adaptive immune cells respond to intravitreal AAV regardless of prior immune status, but the adaptive response is delayed in AAV naive eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Tummala
- University of Washington, Department of Ophthalmology, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Adam Crain
- University of Washington, Department of Ophthalmology, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jessica Rowlan
- University of Washington, Department of Ophthalmology, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Kathryn L. Pepple
- University of Washington, Department of Ophthalmology, Seattle, Washington, United States
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32
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Xu C, Yu B, Qi Y, Zhao N, Xu F. Versatile Types of Cyclodextrin-Based Nucleic Acid Delivery Systems. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001183. [PMID: 32935932 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, nucleic acid therapy has become a promising way for the treatment of various malignant diseases. Cyclodextrin (CD)-based nucleic acid delivery systems have attracted widespread attention due to the favorable chemical structures and excellent biological properties of CD. Recently, a variety of CD-based nucleic acid delivery systems has been designed according to the different functions of CD for flexible gene therapies. In this review, the construction strategies and biomedical applications of CD-based nucleic acid delivery systems are mainly focused on. The review begins with an introduction to the synthesis and properties of simple CD-grafted polycations. Thereafter, CD-related supramolecular assemblies based on different guest components are discussed in detail. Finally, different CD-based organic/inorganic nanohybrids and their relevant functions are demonstrated. It is hoped that this brief review will motivate the delicate design of CD-based nucleic acid delivery systems for potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering Key Lab of Biomedical Materials of Natural Macromolecules (Beijing University of Chemical Technology Ministry of Education) Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 China
| | - Bingran Yu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering Key Lab of Biomedical Materials of Natural Macromolecules (Beijing University of Chemical Technology Ministry of Education) Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 China
| | - Yu Qi
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering Key Lab of Biomedical Materials of Natural Macromolecules (Beijing University of Chemical Technology Ministry of Education) Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 China
| | - Nana Zhao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering Key Lab of Biomedical Materials of Natural Macromolecules (Beijing University of Chemical Technology Ministry of Education) Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 China
| | - Fu‐Jian Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering Key Lab of Biomedical Materials of Natural Macromolecules (Beijing University of Chemical Technology Ministry of Education) Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 China
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33
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Abstract
Color is a fundamental aspect of normal visual experience. This chapter provides an overview of the role of color in human behavior, a survey of current knowledge regarding the genetic, retinal, and neural mechanisms that enable color vision, and a review of inherited and acquired defects of color vision including a discussion of diagnostic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States.
| | - Bevil R Conway
- Laboratory of Sensorimotor Research, National Eye Institute, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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34
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Abstract
Visual prostheses aim to restore, at least to some extent, vision that leads to the type of perception available for sighted patients. Their effectiveness is almost always evaluated using clinical tests of vision. Clinical vision tests are designed to measure the limits of parameters of a functioning visual system. I argue here that these tests are rarely suited to determine the ability of prosthetic devices and other therapies to restore vision. This paper describes and explains many limitations of these evaluations. Prosthetic vision testing often makes use of multiple-alternative forced-choice (MAFC) procedures. Although these paradigms are suitable for many studies, they are frequently problematic in vision restoration evaluation. Two main types of problems are identified: (1) where nuisance variables provide spurious cues that can be learned in repeated training, which is common in prosthetic vision, and thus defeat the purpose of the test; and (2) even though a test is properly designed and performed, it may not actually measure what the researchers believe, and thus the interpretation of results is wrong. Examples for both types of problems are presented. Additional problems arise from confounding factors in the administration of tests are pointed as limitations of current device evaluation. For example, head tracing of magnified objects enlarged to compensate for the system's low resolution, in distinction from the scanning head (camera) movements with which users of prosthetic devices expand the limited field of view. Because of these problems, the ability to perform satisfactorily on the clinical tests is necessary but insufficient to prove vision restoration, therefore, additional tests are needed. I propose some directions to pursue in such testing. Translational Relevance Numerous prosthetic devices are being developed and introduced to the market. Proving the utility of these devices is crucial for regulatory and even for post market acceptance, which so far has largely failed, in my opinion. Potential reasons for the failures despite success in regulatory testing and directions for designing improved testing are provided. It is hoped that improved testing will guide improved designs of future prosthetic systems and other vision restoration approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Peli
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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35
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Isherwood ZJ, Joyce DS, Parthasarathy MK, Webster MA. Plasticity in perception: insights from color vision deficiencies. Fac Rev 2020; 9:8. [PMID: 33659940 PMCID: PMC7886061 DOI: 10.12703/b/9-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited color vision deficiencies typically result from a loss or alteration of the visual photopigments absorbing light and thus impact the very first step of seeing. There is growing interest in how subsequent steps in the visual pathway might be calibrated to compensate for the altered receptor signals, with the possibility that color coding and color percepts might be less severely impacted than the receptor differences predict. These compensatory adjustments provide important insights into general questions about sensory plasticity and the sensory and cognitive processes underlying how we experience color.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel S Joyce
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
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36
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Individualised Halo-Free Gradient-Domain Colour Image Daltonisation. J Imaging 2020; 6:jimaging6110116. [PMID: 34460560 PMCID: PMC8321179 DOI: 10.3390/jimaging6110116] [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: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Daltonisation refers to the recolouring of images such that details normally lost by colour vision deficient observers become visible. This comes at the cost of introducing artificial colours. In a previous work, we presented a gradient-domain colour image daltonisation method that outperformed previously known methods both in behavioural and psychometric experiments. In the present paper, we improve the method by (i) finding a good first estimate of the daltonised image, thus reducing the computational time significantly, and (ii) introducing local linear anisotropic diffusion, thus effectively removing the halo artefacts. The method uses a colour vision deficiency simulation algorithm as an ingredient, and can thus be applied for any colour vision deficiency, and can even be individualised if the exact individual colour vision is known.
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37
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Franke
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Tübingen University, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Anna Vlasits
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Tübingen University, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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38
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Thompson DA, Iannaccone A, Ali RR, Arshavsky VY, Audo I, Bainbridge JWB, Besirli CG, Birch DG, Branham KE, Cideciyan AV, Daiger SP, Dalkara D, Duncan JL, Fahim AT, Flannery JG, Gattegna R, Heckenlively JR, Heon E, Jayasundera KT, Khan NW, Klassen H, Leroy BP, Molday RS, Musch DC, Pennesi ME, Petersen-Jones SM, Pierce EA, Rao RC, Reh TA, Sahel JA, Sharon D, Sieving PA, Strettoi E, Yang P, Zacks DN. Advancing Clinical Trials for Inherited Retinal Diseases: Recommendations from the Second Monaciano Symposium. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:2. [PMID: 32832209 PMCID: PMC7414644 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Major advances in the study of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) have placed efforts to develop treatments for these blinding conditions at the forefront of the emerging field of precision medicine. As a result, the growth of clinical trials for IRDs has increased rapidly over the past decade and is expected to further accelerate as more therapeutic possibilities emerge and qualified participants are identified. Although guided by established principles, these specialized trials, requiring analysis of novel outcome measures and endpoints in small patient populations, present multiple challenges relative to study design and ethical considerations. This position paper reviews recent accomplishments and existing challenges in clinical trials for IRDs and presents a set of recommendations aimed at rapidly advancing future progress. The goal is to stimulate discussions among researchers, funding agencies, industry, and policy makers that will further the design, conduct, and analysis of clinical trials needed to accelerate the approval of effective treatments for IRDs, while promoting advocacy and ensuring patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Thompson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alessandro Iannaccone
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Vadim Y Arshavsky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Isabelle Audo
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France
| | | | - Cagri G Besirli
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kari E Branham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven P Daiger
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Jacque L Duncan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Abigail T Fahim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - John G Flannery
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - John R Heckenlively
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elise Heon
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Thiran Jayasundera
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Naheed W Khan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Henry Klassen
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Stem Cell Research Center, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Bart P Leroy
- Department of Ophthalmology and Center Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital and University, Ghent, Belgium.,Division of Ophthalmology and Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert S Molday
- Department of Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David C Musch
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Simon M Petersen-Jones
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Eric A Pierce
- Ocular Genomics Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rajesh C Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thomas A Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jose A Sahel
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France.,Fondation Ophtalmologique Rothschild, Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dror Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Paul A Sieving
- Department of Ophthalmology and Center for Ocular Regenerative Therapy, University of California-Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.,National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Enrica Strettoi
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Paul Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - David N Zacks
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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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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Martin A, Wolcott NS, O'Connell LA. Bringing immersive science to undergraduate laboratory courses using CRISPR gene knockouts in frogs and butterflies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/Suppl_1/jeb208793. [PMID: 32034043 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.208793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The use of CRISPR/Cas9 for gene editing offers new opportunities for biology students to perform genuine research exploring the gene-to-phenotype relationship. It is important to introduce the next generation of scientists, health practitioners and other members of society to the technical and ethical aspects of gene editing. Here, we share our experience leading hands-on undergraduate laboratory classes, where students formulate hypotheses regarding the roles of candidate genes involved in development, perform loss-of-function experiments using programmable nucleases and analyze the phenotypic effects of mosaic mutant animals. This is enabled by the use of the amphibian Xenopus laevis and the butterfly Vanessa cardui, two organisms that reliably yield hundreds of large and freshly fertilized eggs in a scalable manner. Frogs and butterflies also present opportunities to teach key biological concepts about gene regulation and development. To complement these practical aspects, we describe learning activities aimed at equipping students with a broad understanding of genome editing techniques, their application in fundamental and translational research, and the bioethical challenges they raise. Overall, our work supports the introduction of CRISPR technology into undergraduate classrooms and, when coupled with classroom undergraduate research experiences, enables hypothesis-driven research by undergraduates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Martin
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Nora S Wolcott
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
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Muhammad K, Zhao J, Ullah I, Guo J, Ren XK, Feng Y. Ligand targeting and peptide functionalized polymers as non-viral carriers for gene therapy. Biomater Sci 2020; 8:64-83. [DOI: 10.1039/c9bm01112a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ligand targeting and peptide functionalized polymers serve as gene carriers for efficient gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khan Muhammad
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
| | - Ihsan Ullah
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
| | - Jintang Guo
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin)
| | - Xiang-kui Ren
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin)
| | - Yakai Feng
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology
- Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin)
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Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases caused by photoreceptor cell death are major causes of irreversible vision loss. As only primates have a macula, the nonhuman primate (NHP) models have a crucial role not only in revealing biological mechanisms underlying high-acuity vision but also in the development of therapies. Successful translation of basic research findings into clinical trials and, moreover, approval of the first therapies for blinding inherited and age-related retinal dystrophies has been reported in recent years. This article explores the value of the NHP models in understanding human vision and reviews their contribution to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to save and restore vision.
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Abstract
The jawless fish that were ancestral to all living vertebrates had four spectral cone types that were probably served by chromatic-opponent retinal circuits. Subsequent evolution of photoreceptor spectral sensitivities is documented for many vertebrate lineages, giving insight into the ecological adaptation of color vision. Beyond the photoreceptors, retinal color processing is best understood in mammals, especially the blueON system, which opposes short- against long-wavelength receptor responses. For other vertebrates that often have three or four types of cone pigment, new findings from zebrafish are extending older work on teleost fish and reptiles to reveal rich color circuitry. Here, horizontal cells establish diverse and complex spectral responses even in photoreceptor outputs. Cone-selective connections to bipolar cells then set up color-opponent synaptic layers in the inner retina, which lead to a large variety of color-opponent channels for transmission to the brain via retinal ganglion cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Baden
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, BN1 9QG Brighton, United Kingdom; ,
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - D Osorio
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, BN1 9QG Brighton, United Kingdom; ,
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Towards A Microbead Occlusion Model of Glaucoma for a Non-Human Primate. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11572. [PMID: 31399621 PMCID: PMC6689098 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48054-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies associated with aging and sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP). The disease causes vision loss through the degeneration of retinal ganglion cell neurons and their axons in the optic nerve. Using an inducible model of glaucoma, we elevated IOP in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri boliviensis) using intracameral injection of 35 μm polystyrene microbeads and measured common pathogenic outcomes in the optic projection. A 42% elevation in IOP over 28 weeks reduced anterograde transport of fluorescently-labeled cholera toxin beta from retina to the lateral geniculate nucleus (60% decrease), and to the superior colliculus (49% decrease). Pressure also reduced survival of ganglion cellaxons in the optic nerve by 22%. The same elevation caused upregulation of proteins associated with glaucomatous neurodegeneration in the retina and optic nerve, including complement 1q, interleukin 6, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. That axon degeneration in the nerve lagged deficits in anterograde transport is consistent with progression in rodent models, while the observed protein changes also occur in tissue from human glaucoma patients. Thus, microbead occlusion in a non-human primate with a visual system similar to our own represents an attractive model to investigate neurodegenerative mechanisms and therapeutic interventions for glaucoma.
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Deng WT, Li J, Zhu P, Freedman B, Smith WC, Baehr W, Hauswirth WW. Rescue of M-cone Function in Aged Opn1mw-/- Mice, a Model for Late-Stage Blue Cone Monochromacy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3644-3651. [PMID: 31469404 PMCID: PMC6716949 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Previously we showed that AAV5-mediated expression of either human M- or L-opsin promoted regrowth of cone outer segments and rescued M-cone function in the treated M-opsin knockout (Opn1mw-/-) dorsal retina. In this study, we determined cone viability and window of treatability in aged Opn1mw-/- mice. Methods Cone viability was assessed with antibody against cone arrestin and peanut agglutinin (PNA) staining. The rate of cone degeneration in Opn1mw-/- mice was quantified by PNA staining. AAV5 vector expressing human L-opsin was injected subretinally into one eye of Opn1mw-/- mice at 1, 7, and 15 months old, while the contralateral eyes served as controls. M-cone-mediated retinal function was analyzed 2 and 13 months postinjection by full-field ERG. L-opsin transgene expression and cone outer segment structure were examined by immunohistochemistry. Results We showed that dorsal M-opsin dominant cones exhibit outer segment degeneration at an early age in Opn1mw-/- mice, whereas ventral S-opsin dominant cones were normal. The remaining M-opsin dominant cones remained viable for at least 15 months, albeit having shortened or no outer segments. We also showed that AAV5-mediated expression of human L-opsin was still able to rescue function and outer segment structure in the remaining M-opsin dominant cones when treatment was initiated at 15 months of age. Conclusions Our results showing that the remaining M-opsin dominant cones in aged Opn1mw-/- mice can still be rescued by gene therapy is helpful for establishing the window of treatability in future blue cone monochromacy clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Ping Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Beau Freedman
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - W. Clay Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Wolfgang Baehr
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah Health Science Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - William W. Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
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Arabipour I, Amani J, Mirhosseini SA, Salimian J. The study of genes and signal transduction pathways involved in mustard lung injury: A gene therapy approach. Gene 2019; 714:143968. [PMID: 31323308 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.143968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sulfur mustard (SM) is a destructive and harmful chemical agent for the eyes, skin and lungs that causes short-term and long-term lesions and was widely used in Iraq war against Iran (1980-1988). SM causes DNA damages, oxidative stress, and Inflammation. Considering the similarities between SM and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) pathogens and limited available treatments, a novel therapeutic approach is not developed. Gene therapy is a novel therapeutic approach that uses genetic engineering science in treatment of most diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In this review, attempts to presenting a comprehensive study of mustard lung and introducing the genes therapy involved in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphasizing the pathways and genes involved in the pathology and pathogenesis of sulfur Mustard. It seems that, given the high potential of gene therapy and the fact that this experimental technique is a candidate for the treatment of pulmonary diseases, further study of genes, vectors and gene transfer systems can draw a very positive perspective of gene therapy in near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Arabipour
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Amani
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ali Mirhosseini
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Salimian
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Thoreson WB, Dacey DM. Diverse Cell Types, Circuits, and Mechanisms for Color Vision in the Vertebrate Retina. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1527-1573. [PMID: 31140374 PMCID: PMC6689740 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00027.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic interactions to extract information about wavelength, and thus color, begin in the vertebrate retina with three classes of light-sensitive cells: rod photoreceptors at low light levels, multiple types of cone photoreceptors that vary in spectral sensitivity, and intrinsically photosensitive ganglion cells that contain the photopigment melanopsin. When isolated from its neighbors, a photoreceptor confounds photon flux with wavelength and so by itself provides no information about color. The retina has evolved elaborate color opponent circuitry for extracting wavelength information by comparing the activities of different photoreceptor types broadly tuned to different parts of the visible spectrum. We review studies concerning the circuit mechanisms mediating opponent interactions in a range of species, from tetrachromatic fish with diverse color opponent cell types to common dichromatic mammals where cone opponency is restricted to a subset of specialized circuits. Distinct among mammals, primates have reinvented trichromatic color vision using novel strategies to incorporate evolution of an additional photopigment gene into the foveal structure and circuitry that supports high-resolution vision. Color vision is absent at scotopic light levels when only rods are active, but rods interact with cone signals to influence color perception at mesopic light levels. Recent evidence suggests melanopsin-mediated signals, which have been identified as a substrate for setting circadian rhythms, may also influence color perception. We consider circuits that may mediate these interactions. While cone opponency is a relatively simple neural computation, it has been implemented in vertebrates by diverse neural mechanisms that are not yet fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace B Thoreson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska ; and Department of Biological Structure, Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington
| | - Dennis M Dacey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska ; and Department of Biological Structure, Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington
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48
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Hoke KL, Adkins-Regan E, Bass AH, McCune AR, Wolfner MF. Co-opting evo-devo concepts for new insights into mechanisms of behavioural diversity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:222/8/jeb190058. [PMID: 30988051 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.190058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We propose that insights from the field of evolutionary developmental biology (or 'evo-devo') provide a framework for an integrated understanding of the origins of behavioural diversity and its underlying mechanisms. Towards that goal, in this Commentary, we frame key questions in behavioural evolution in terms of molecular, cellular and network-level properties with a focus on the nervous system. In this way, we highlight how mechanistic properties central to evo-devo analyses - such as weak linkage, versatility, exploratory mechanisms, criticality, degeneracy, redundancy and modularity - affect neural circuit function and hence the range of behavioural variation that can be filtered by selection. We outline why comparative studies of molecular and neural systems throughout ontogeny will provide novel insights into diversity in neural circuits and behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim L Hoke
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Elizabeth Adkins-Regan
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.,Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Andrew H Bass
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Amy R McCune
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Sun LF, Zhang B, Chen XJ, Wang XY, Zhang BW, Ji YY, Wu KC, Wu J, Jin ZB. Circular RNAs in human and vertebrate neural retinas. RNA Biol 2019; 16:821-829. [PMID: 30874468 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1591034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) belong to an endogenous class of RNA molecules with both ends covalently linked in a circle. Although their expression pattern in the mammalian brain has been well studied, the characteristics and functions of circRNAs in retinas remain unknown. To reveal the whole expression profiles of circRNAs in the neural retina, we investigated retinal RNAs of human, monkey, mouse, pig, zebrafish and tree shrew and detected thousands of circRNAs showing conservation and variation in the retinas across different vertebrate species. We further investigated one of the abundant circRNAs, circPDE4B, identified in human retina. Silencing of circPDE4B significantly inhibited the proliferation of human A549 cells. Functional assays demonstrated that circPDE4B could sponge miR-181C, thereby altering the cell phenotype. We have explored the retinal circRNA repertoires across human and different vertebrates, which provide new insights into the important role of circRNAs in the vertebrate retinas, as well as in related human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Fang Sun
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Bing Zhang
- c Institute of Genomic Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,d Computational Genomics Lab , Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing , China
| | - Xue-Jiao Chen
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Xiao-Yun Wang
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Bo-Wen Zhang
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Yang-Yang Ji
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Kun-Chao Wu
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
| | - Jinyu Wu
- c Institute of Genomic Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- a Laboratory for Stem Cell and Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics , The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou , China.,b State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Vision Science , Wenzhou Medical University, National International Joint Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Neurogenetics , Wenzhou , China
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Widayati KA. Color Perception in Protanomalous Female Macaca fascicularis. Iperception 2019; 10:2041669519846136. [PMID: 31066374 PMCID: PMC6488792 DOI: 10.1177/2041669519846136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Protanomalous females with X chromosome-linked color vision deficiency exhibit mild abnormalities, whereas dichromats show a distinct deficiency in discriminating certain color pairs. Dichromats have an advantage in detecting a textured target when it is camouflaged by red-green colors, owing to their insensitivity to these colors. However, it is not certain whether protanomalous females possess a similar advantage in breaking camouflage. Here, we introduce an animal model of dichromatic macaque monkeys and protanomalous females. We examined whether protanomalous females have the same advantage in breaking color camouflage as shown by dichromatic macaques. We also tested whether they could discriminate a certain color pair that trichromats could, where the dichromats are confused. Our experiments show that protanomalous macaques can break color camouflage, similar to dichromats, and can discriminate colors similarly to trichromats. Protanomalous females are thus thought to have the combined ecological advantages of being both trichromats and dichromats.
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