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Koller U, Bauer JW. Emerging DNA & RNA editing strategies for the treatment of epidermolysis bullosa. J DERMATOL TREAT 2024; 35:2391452. [PMID: 39155053 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2024.2391452] [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: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Background: Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a clinically-heterogeneous genodermatosis with severe manifestations in the skin and other organs. The significant burden this condition places on patients justifies the development of gene therapeutic strategies targeting the genetic cause of the disease. Methods: Emerging RNA and DNA editing tools have shown remarkable advances in efficiency and safety. Applicable both in ex vivo- and in vivo settings, these gene therapeutics based on gene replacement or editing are either at the pre-clinical or clinical stage. Results: The recent landmark FDA approvals for gene editing based on CRISPR/Cas9, along with the first FDA-approved redosable in vivo gene replacement therapy for EB, will invigorate ongoing research efforts, increasing the likelihood of achieving local cure via CRISPR-based technologies in the near future. Conclusions: This review discusses the status quo of current gene therapeutics that act at the level of RNA or DNA, all with the common aim of improving the quality of life for EB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johann W Bauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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2
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Quílez C, Bebiano LB, Jones E, Maver U, Meesters L, Parzymies P, Petiot E, Rikken G, Risueño I, Zaidi H, Zidarič T, Bekeschus S, H van den Bogaard E, Caley M, Colley H, López NG, Letsiou S, Marquette C, Maver T, Pereira RF, Tobin DJ, Velasco D. Targeting the Complexity of In Vitro Skin Models: A Review of Cutting-Edge Developments. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)01499-4. [PMID: 39127929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.04.032] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Skin in vitro models offer much promise for research, testing drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices, reducing animal testing and extensive clinical trials. There are several in vitro approaches to mimicking human skin behavior, ranging from simple cell monolayer to complex organotypic and bioengineered 3-dimensional models. Some have been approved for preclinical studies in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. However, development of physiologically reliable in vitro human skin models remains in its infancy. This review reports on advances in in vitro complex skin models to study skin homeostasis, aging, and skin disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Quílez
- Bioengineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain; Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de la Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luís B Bebiano
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eleri Jones
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Uroš Maver
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Luca Meesters
- Department of Dermatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Piotr Parzymies
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Petiot
- 3d.FAB, CNRS, INSA, Univ Lyon, CPE-Lyon, UMR5246, ICBMS, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Gijs Rikken
- Department of Dermatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ignacio Risueño
- Bioengineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain; Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de la Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hamza Zaidi
- 3d.FAB, CNRS, INSA, Univ Lyon, CPE-Lyon, UMR5246, ICBMS, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Tanja Zidarič
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- Clinic and Policlinic for Dermatology and Venerology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany; ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Matthew Caley
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Colley
- School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Nuria Gago López
- Melanoma group, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sophia Letsiou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece; Department of Food Science and Technology, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Christophe Marquette
- 3d.FAB, CNRS, INSA, Univ Lyon, CPE-Lyon, UMR5246, ICBMS, Université Lyon 1, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Tina Maver
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Rúben F Pereira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Desmond J Tobin
- Charles Institute of Dermatology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Diego Velasco
- Bioengineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain; Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de la Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Polito MP, Romaldini A, Rinaldo S, Enzo E. Coordinating energy metabolism and signaling pathways in epithelial self-renewal and differentiation. Biol Direct 2024; 19:63. [PMID: 39113077 PMCID: PMC11308432 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-024-00510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermal stem cells (EPSCs) are essential for maintaining skin homeostasis and ensuring a proper wound healing. During in vitro cultivations, EPSCs give rise to transient amplifying progenitors and differentiated cells, finally forming a stratified epithelium that can be grafted onto patients. Epithelial grafts have been used in clinics to cure burned patients or patients affected by genetic diseases. The long-term success of these advanced therapies relies on the presence of a correct amount of EPSCs that guarantees long-term epithelial regeneration. For this reason, a deeper understanding of self-renewal and differentiation is fundamental to fostering their clinical applications.The coordination between energetic metabolism (e.g., glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and amino acid synthesis pathways), molecular signalling pathways (e.g., p63, YAP, FOXM1, AMPK/mTOR), and epigenetic modifications controls fundamental biological processes as proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation. This review explores how these signalling and metabolic pathways are interconnected in the epithelial cells, highlighting the distinct metabolic demands and regulatory mechanisms involved in skin physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Polito
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41125, Italy
| | - Alessio Romaldini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41125, Italy
| | - Serena Rinaldo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Elena Enzo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41125, Italy.
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Zhang K, Wan P, Wang L, Wang Z, Tan F, Li J, Ma X, Cen J, Yuan X, Liu Y, Sun Z, Cheng X, Liu Y, Liu X, Hu J, Zhong G, Li D, Xia Q, Hui L. Efficient expansion and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene correction of patient-derived hepatocytes for treatment of inherited liver diseases. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:1187-1202.e8. [PMID: 38772378 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Cell-based ex vivo gene therapy in solid organs, especially the liver, has proven technically challenging. Here, we report a feasible strategy for the clinical application of hepatocyte therapy. We first generated high-quality autologous hepatocytes through the large-scale expansion of patient-derived hepatocytes. Moreover, the proliferating patient-derived hepatocytes, together with the AAV2.7m8 variant identified through screening, enabled CRISPR-Cas9-mediated targeted integration efficiently, achieving functional correction of pathogenic mutations in FAH or OTC. Importantly, these edited hepatocytes repopulated the injured mouse liver at high repopulation levels and underwent maturation, successfully treating mice with tyrosinemia following transplantation. Our study combines ex vivo large-scale cell expansion and gene editing in patient-derived transplantable hepatocytes, which holds potential for treating human liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Ping Wan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Liren Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Fangzhi Tan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Xiaolong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jin Cen
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xiang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yang Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Genome Editing Research Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yuanhua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xuhao Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Genome Editing Research Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jiazhi Hu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, School of Life Sciences, Genome Editing Research Center, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guisheng Zhong
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Dali Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Genome Editing and Cell Therapy, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Qiang Xia
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200001, China.
| | - Lijian Hui
- Key Laboratory of Multi-Cell Systems, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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5
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Danescu S, Negrutiu M, Has C. Treatment of Epidermolysis Bullosa and Future Directions: A Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2024; 14:2059-2075. [PMID: 39090514 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-024-01227-8] [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: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) comprises rare genetic disorders characterized by skin and mucosal membrane blistering induced by mechanical trauma. Molecularly, pathogenic variants affect genes encoding proteins crucial for epidermal-dermal adhesion and stability. Management of severe EB is multidisciplinary, focusing on wound healing support, ensuring that patients thrive, and complication treatment. Despite extensive research over 30 years, novel therapeutic approaches face challenges. Gene therapy and protein therapy struggle with efficacy, while regenerative cell-based therapies show limited effects. Drug repurposing to target various pathogenic mechanisms has gained attention, as has in vivo gene therapy with drugs for dystrophic and junctional EB that were recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA). However, their high cost limits global accessibility. This review examines therapeutic advancements made over the past 5 years, exploiting a systematic literature review and clinical trial data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorina Danescu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mircea Negrutiu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Has
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
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6
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Shen Q, Suga S, Moriwaki Y, Du Z, Aizawa E, Okazaki M, Izpisua Belmonte JC, Hirabayashi Y, Suzuki K, Kurita M. Optimization of an adeno-associated viral vector for epidermal keratinocytes in vitro and in vivo. J Dermatol Sci 2024:S0923-1811(24)00152-X. [PMID: 39127592 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2024.07.006] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Local gene therapies, including in vivo genome editing, are highly anticipated for the treatment of genetic diseases in skin, especially the epidermis. While the adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a potent vector for in vivo gene delivery, the lack of efficient gene delivery methods has limited its clinical applications. OBJECTIVE To optimize the AAV gene delivery system with higher gene delivery efficiency and specificity for epidermis and keratinocytes (KCs), using AAV capsid and promoter engineering technologies. METHODS AAV variants with mutations in residues reported to be critical to determine the tropism of AAV2 for KCs were generated by site-directed mutagenesis of AAVDJ. The infection efficiency and specificity for KCs of these variants were compared with those of previously reported AAVs considered to be suitable for gene delivery to KCs in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we generated an epidermis-specific promoter using the most recent short-core promoter and compared its specificity with existing promoters. RESULTS A novel AAVDJ variant capsid termed AAVDJK2 was superior to the existing AAVs in terms of gene transduction efficiency and specificity for epidermis and KCs in vitro and in vivo. A novel tissue-specific promoter, termed the K14 SCP3 promoter, was superior to the existing promoters in terms of gene transduction efficiency and specificity for KCs. CONCLUSION The combination of the AAVDJK2 capsid and K14 SCP3 promoter improves gene delivery to epidermis in vivo and KCs in vitro. The novel AAV system may benefit experimental research and development of new epidermis-targeted gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Shen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shogo Suga
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuta Moriwaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zening Du
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Aizawa
- Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Okazaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yusuke Hirabayashi
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichiro Suzuki
- Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan; Institute for Advanced Co-Creation Studies, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan; Graduate School of Frontier Bioscience, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
| | - Masakazu Kurita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
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7
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Boraldi F, Lofaro FD, Bonacorsi S, Mazzilli A, Garcia-Fernandez M, Quaglino D. The Role of Fibroblasts in Skin Homeostasis and Repair. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1586. [PMID: 39062158 PMCID: PMC11274439 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts are typical mesenchymal cells widely distributed throughout the human body where they (1) synthesise and maintain the extracellular matrix, ensuring the structural role of soft connective tissues; (2) secrete cytokines and growth factors; (3) communicate with each other and with other cell types, acting as signalling source for stem cell niches; and (4) are involved in tissue remodelling, wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer. This review focuses on the developmental heterogeneity of dermal fibroblasts, on their ability to sense changes in biomechanical properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix, and on their role in aging, in skin repair, in pathologic conditions and in tumour development. Moreover, we describe the use of fibroblasts in different models (e.g., in vivo animal models and in vitro systems from 2D to 6D cultures) for tissue bioengineering and the informative potential of high-throughput assays for the study of fibroblasts under different disease contexts for personalized healthcare and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Boraldi
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (S.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Francesco Demetrio Lofaro
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (S.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Susanna Bonacorsi
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (S.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Alessia Mazzilli
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (S.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Maria Garcia-Fernandez
- Department of Human Physiology, Institute of Biomedical Investigation (IBIMA), University of Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain;
| | - Daniela Quaglino
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (S.B.); (A.M.)
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8
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Polito MP, Marini G, Fabrizi A, Sercia L, Enzo E, De Luca M. Biochemical role of FOXM1-dependent histone linker H1B in human epidermal stem cells. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:508. [PMID: 39019868 PMCID: PMC11255229 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06905-1] [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: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Epidermal stem cells orchestrate epidermal renewal and timely wound repair through a tight regulation of self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation. In culture, human epidermal stem cells generate a clonal type referred to as holoclone, which give rise to transient amplifying progenitors (meroclone and paraclone-forming cells) eventually generating terminally differentiated cells. Leveraging single-cell transcriptomic data, we explored the FOXM1-dependent biochemical signals controlling self-renewal and differentiation in epidermal stem cells aimed at improving regenerative medicine applications. We report that the expression of H1 linker histone subtypes decrease during serial cultivation. At clonal level we observed that H1B is the most expressed isoform, particularly in epidermal stem cells, as compared to transient amplifying progenitors. Indeed, its expression decreases in primary epithelial culture where stem cells are exhausted due to FOXM1 downregulation. Conversely, H1B expression increases when the stem cells compartment is sustained by enforced FOXM1 expression, both in primary epithelial cultures derived from healthy donors and JEB patient. Moreover, we demonstrated that FOXM1 binds the promotorial region of H1B, hence regulates its expression. We also show that H1B is bound to the promotorial region of differentiation-related genes and negatively regulates their expression in epidermal stem cells. We propose a novel mechanism wherein the H1B acts downstream of FOXM1, contributing to the fine interplay between self-renewal and differentiation in human epidermal stem cells. These findings further define the networks that sustain self-renewal along the previously identified YAP-FOXM1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Polito
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Grazia Marini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fabrizi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Sercia
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Enzo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Michele De Luca
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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9
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Neumayer G, Torkelson JL, Li S, McCarthy K, Zhen HH, Vangipuram M, Mader MM, Gebeyehu G, Jaouni TM, Jacków-Malinowska J, Rami A, Hansen C, Guo Z, Gaddam S, Tate KM, Pappalardo A, Li L, Chow GM, Roy KR, Nguyen TM, Tanabe K, McGrath PS, Cramer A, Bruckner A, Bilousova G, Roop D, Tang JY, Christiano A, Steinmetz LM, Wernig M, Oro AE. A scalable and cGMP-compatible autologous organotypic cell therapy for Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5834. [PMID: 38992003 PMCID: PMC11239819 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49400-z] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We present Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Cell Therapy (DEBCT), a scalable platform producing autologous organotypic iPS cell-derived induced skin composite (iSC) grafts for definitive treatment. Clinical-grade manufacturing integrates CRISPR-mediated genetic correction with reprogramming into one step, accelerating derivation of COL7A1-edited iPS cells from patients. Differentiation into epidermal, dermal and melanocyte progenitors is followed by CD49f-enrichment, minimizing maturation heterogeneity. Mouse xenografting of iSCs from four patients with different mutations demonstrates disease modifying activity at 1 month. Next-generation sequencing, biodistribution and tumorigenicity assays establish a favorable safety profile at 1-9 months. Single cell transcriptomics reveals that iSCs are composed of the major skin cell lineages and include prominent holoclone stem cell-like signatures of keratinocytes, and the recently described Gibbin-dependent signature of fibroblasts. The latter correlates with enhanced graftability of iSCs. In conclusion, DEBCT overcomes manufacturing and safety roadblocks and establishes a reproducible, safe, and cGMP-compatible therapeutic approach to heal lesions of DEB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Neumayer
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jessica L Torkelson
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shengdi Li
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genome Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kelly McCarthy
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hanson H Zhen
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Madhuri Vangipuram
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marius M Mader
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gulilat Gebeyehu
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Life Sciences Solutions Group, Cell Biology, Research and Development, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Taysir M Jaouni
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Life Sciences Solutions Group, Cell Biology, Research and Development, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Joanna Jacków-Malinowska
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- St. John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Avina Rami
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Corey Hansen
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zongyou Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sadhana Gaddam
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Keri M Tate
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Lingjie Li
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Grace M Chow
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kevin R Roy
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Genome Technology Center, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Thuylinh Michelle Nguyen
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Genome Technology Center, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Patrick S McGrath
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amber Cramer
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Anna Bruckner
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ganna Bilousova
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Dennis Roop
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jean Y Tang
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Lars M Steinmetz
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genome Biology Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Genome Technology Center, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marius Wernig
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Anthony E Oro
- Department of Dermatology-Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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10
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Wu J, Fu J. Toward developing human organs via embryo models and chimeras. Cell 2024; 187:3194-3219. [PMID: 38906095 PMCID: PMC11239105 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.05.027] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Developing functional organs from stem cells remains a challenging goal in regenerative medicine. Existing methodologies, such as tissue engineering, bioprinting, and organoids, only offer partial solutions. This perspective focuses on two promising approaches emerging for engineering human organs from stem cells: stem cell-based embryo models and interspecies organogenesis. Both approaches exploit the premise of guiding stem cells to mimic natural development. We begin by summarizing what is known about early human development as a blueprint for recapitulating organogenesis in both embryo models and interspecies chimeras. The latest advances in both fields are discussed before highlighting the technological and knowledge gaps to be addressed before the goal of developing human organs could be achieved using the two approaches. We conclude by discussing challenges facing embryo modeling and interspecies organogenesis and outlining future prospects for advancing both fields toward the generation of human tissues and organs for basic research and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Jianping Fu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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11
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Berthault C, Gaucher S, Gouin O, Schmitt A, Chen M, Woodley D, Titeux M, Hovnanian A, Izmiryan A. Highly Efficient Ex Vivo Correction of COL7A1 through Ribonucleoprotein-Based CRISPR/Cas9 and Homology-Directed Repair to Treat Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1322-1333.e13. [PMID: 38043638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare and severe genetic skin disease responsible for blistering of the skin and mucosa after minor trauma. RDEB is caused by a wide variety of variants in COL7A1 encoding type VII Collagen, the major component of anchoring fibrils that form key attachment structures for dermal-epidermal adherence. In this study, we achieved highly efficient COL7A1 editing in primary RDEB keratinocytes and fibroblasts from 2 patients homozygous for the c.6508C>T (p.Gln2170∗) variant through CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homology-directed repair. Three guide RNAs targeting the c.6508C>T variant or harboring sequences were delivered together with high-fidelity Cas9 as a ribonucleoprotein complex. Among them, one achieved 73% cleavage activity in primary RDEB keratinocytes and RDEB fibroblasts. Then, we treated RDEB keratinocytes and RDEB fibroblasts with this specific ribonucleoprotein complex and the corresponding donor template delivered as single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide and achieved up to 58% of genetic correction as well as type VII Collagen rescue. Finally, grafting of corrected 3-dimensional skin onto nude mice induced re-expression and normal localization of type VII Collagen as well as anchoring fibril formation at the dermal-epidermal junction 5 and 10 weeks after grafting. With this promising nonviral approach, we achieved therapeutically relevant specific gene editing that could be applicable to all variants in exon 80 of COL7A1 in primary RDEB cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Berthault
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Gaucher
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Gouin
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Alain Schmitt
- Electronic Microscopy Facility, INSERM UMR 1016, Cochin Institute, Paris, France
| | - Mei Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David Woodley
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Matthias Titeux
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Alain Hovnanian
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France; Department of Genomic Medicine for Rare Diseases, Necker Hospital for Sick Children, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Paris, France
| | - Araksya Izmiryan
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genetic skin diseases, Imagine Institute, Paris, France; Paris Cité University, Paris, France.
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12
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Suanno G, Genna VG, Maurizi E, Dieh AA, Griffith M, Ferrari G. Cell therapy in the cornea: The emerging role of microenvironment. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 102:101275. [PMID: 38797320 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101275] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The cornea is an ideal testing field for cell therapies. Its highly ordered structure, where specific cell populations are sequestered in different layers, together with its accessibility, has allowed the development of the first stem cell-based therapy approved by the European Medicine Agency. Today, different techniques have been proposed for autologous and allogeneic limbal and non-limbal cell transplantation. Cell replacement has also been attempted in cases of endothelial cell decompensation as it occurs in Fuchs dystrophy: injection of cultivated allogeneic endothelial cells is now in advanced phases of clinical development. Recently, stromal substitutes have been developed with excellent integration capability and transparency. Finally, cell-derived products, such as exosomes obtained from different sources, have been investigated for the treatment of severe corneal diseases with encouraging results. Optimization of the success rate of cell therapies obviously requires high-quality cultured cells/products, but the role of the surrounding microenvironment is equally important to allow engraftment of transplanted cells, to preserve their functions and, ultimately, lead to restoration of tissue integrity and transparency of the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Suanno
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Maurizi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''S. Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anas Abu Dieh
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - May Griffith
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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13
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Li Z, Saravanakumar K, Yao L, Kim Y, Choi SY, Yoo G, Keon K, Lee CM, Youn B, Lee D, Cho N. Acer tegmentosum extract-mediated silver nanoparticles loaded chitosan/alginic acid scaffolds enhance healing of E. coli-infected wounds. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131389. [PMID: 38582461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131389] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
This work developed Acer tegmentosum extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) loaded chitosan (CS)/alginic acid (AL) scaffolds (CS/AL-AgNPs) to enhance the healing of E. coli-infected wounds. The SEM-EDS and XRD results revealed the successful formation of the CS/AL-AgNPs. FTIR analysis evidenced that the anionic group of AL (-COO-) and cationic amine groups of CS (-NH3+) were ionically crosslinked to form scaffold (CS/AL). The CS/AL-AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive (G+) and Gram-negative (G-) bacterial pathogens, while being non-toxic to red blood cells (RBCs), the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM), and a non-cancerous cell line (NIH3T3). Treatment with CS/AL-AgNPs significantly accelerated the healing of E. coli-infected wounds by regulating the collagen deposition and blood parameters as evidenced by in vivo experiments. Overall, these findings suggest that CS/AL-AgNPs are promising for the treatment of infected wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Li
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kandasamy Saravanakumar
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Lulu Yao
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yebon Kim
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sang Yoon Choi
- Korea Food Research Institute, 245, Nongsaengmyeong-ro, Iseo-myeon, Wanju-Gun, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea.
| | - Guijae Yoo
- Korea Food Research Institute, 245, Nongsaengmyeong-ro, Iseo-myeon, Wanju-Gun, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kim Keon
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Chang-Min Lee
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| | - Byungwook Youn
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| | - Doojin Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| | - Namki Cho
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Piñón Hofbauer J, Guttmann-Gruber C, Wally V, Sharma A, Gratz IK, Koller U. Challenges and progress related to gene editing in rare skin diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115294. [PMID: 38527624 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115294] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Genodermatoses represent a large group of inherited skin disorders encompassing clinically-heterogeneous conditions that manifest in the skin and other organs. Depending on disease variant, associated clinical manifestations and secondary complications can severely impact patients' quality of life and currently available treatments are transient and not curative. Multiple emerging approaches using CRISPR-based technologies offer promising prospects for therapy. Here, we explore current advances and challenges related to gene editing in rare skin diseases, including different strategies tailored to mutation type and structural organization of the affected gene, considerations for in vivo and ex vivo applications, the critical issue of delivery into the skin, and immune aspects of therapy. Against the backdrop of a landmark FDA approval for the first re-dosable gene replacement therapy for a rare genetic skin disorder, gene editing approaches are inching closer to the clinics and the possibility of a local permanent cure for patients affected by these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefina Piñón Hofbauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Guttmann-Gruber
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Verena Wally
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anshu Sharma
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Iris K Gratz
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
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15
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Lau CH, Rouhani MJ, Maughan EF, Orr JC, Kolluri KK, Pearce DR, Haughey EK, Sutton L, Flatau S, Balboa PL, Bageta ML, O'Callaghan C, Smith CM, Janes SM, Hewitt R, Petrof G, Martinez AE, McGrath JA, Butler CR, Hynds RE. Lentiviral expression of wild-type LAMA3A restores cell adhesion in airway basal cells from children with epidermolysis bullosa. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1497-1509. [PMID: 38429928 PMCID: PMC11081864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The hallmark of epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is fragile attachment of epithelia due to genetic variants in cell adhesion genes. We describe 16 EB patients treated in the ear, nose, and throat department of a tertiary pediatric hospital linked to the United Kingdom's national EB unit between 1992 and 2023. Patients suffered a high degree of morbidity and mortality from laryngotracheal stenosis. Variants in laminin subunit alpha-3 (LAMA3) were found in 10/15 patients where genotype was available. LAMA3 encodes a subunit of the laminin-332 heterotrimeric extracellular matrix protein complex and is expressed by airway epithelial basal stem cells. We investigated the benefit of restoring wild-type LAMA3 expression in primary EB patient-derived basal cell cultures. EB basal cells demonstrated weak adhesion to cell culture substrates, but could otherwise be expanded similarly to non-EB basal cells. In vitro lentiviral overexpression of LAMA3A in EB basal cells enabled them to differentiate in air-liquid interface cultures, producing cilia with normal ciliary beat frequency. Moreover, transduction restored cell adhesion to levels comparable to a non-EB donor culture. These data provide proof of concept for a combined cell and gene therapy approach to treat airway disease in LAMA3-affected EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Hang Lau
- Epithelial Cell Biology in ENT Research (EpiCENTR) Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 20c Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK
| | - Maral J Rouhani
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK; Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Elizabeth F Maughan
- Epithelial Cell Biology in ENT Research (EpiCENTR) Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 20c Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK; Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Jessica C Orr
- Epithelial Cell Biology in ENT Research (EpiCENTR) Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 20c Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK; Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Krishna K Kolluri
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | - David R Pearce
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Elizabeth K Haughey
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Liam Sutton
- Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Sam Flatau
- Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Pablo Lopez Balboa
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Maria Laura Bageta
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Christopher O'Callaghan
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Claire M Smith
- Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Sam M Janes
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Richard Hewitt
- Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Gabriela Petrof
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Anna E Martinez
- Department of Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - John A McGrath
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, St Thomas Street, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Colin R Butler
- Epithelial Cell Biology in ENT Research (EpiCENTR) Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 20c Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK; Ear, Nose, and Throat Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK.
| | - Robert E Hynds
- Epithelial Cell Biology in ENT Research (EpiCENTR) Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 20c Guilford Street, London WC1N 1DZ, UK; UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6DD, UK.
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16
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Débare H, Blanc F, Piton G, Leplat JJ, Vincent-Naulleau S, Rivière J, Vilotte M, Marthey S, Lecardonnel J, Coville JL, Estellé J, Rau A, Bourneuf E, Egidy G. Malignant features of minipig melanomas prior to spontaneous regression. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9240. [PMID: 38649394 PMCID: PMC11035550 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59741-w] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In MeLiM minipigs, melanomas develop around birth, can metastasize, and have histopathologic characteristics similar to humans. Interestingly, MeLiM melanomas eventually regress. This favorable outcome raises the question of their malignancy, which we investigated. We clinically followed tens of tumors from onset to first signs of regression. Transcriptome analysis revealed an enrichment of all cancer hallmarks in melanomas, although no activating or suppressing somatic mutation were found in common driver genes. Analysis of tumor cell genomes revealed high mutation rates without UV signature. Canonical proliferative, survival and angiogenic pathways were detected in MeLiM tumor cells all along progression stages. Functionally, we show that MeLiM melanoma cells are capable to grow in immunocompromised mice, with serial passages and for a longer time than in MeLiM pigs. Pigs set in place an immune response during progression with dense infiltration by myeloid cells while melanoma cells are deficient in B2M expression. To conclude, our data on MeLiM melanomas reveal several malignancy characteristics. The combination of these features with the successful spontaneous regression of these tumors make it an outstanding model to study an efficient anti-tumor immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Débare
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Fany Blanc
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Guillaume Piton
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Université de Paris Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Leplat
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Silvia Vincent-Naulleau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Université de Paris Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Julie Rivière
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Micalis, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Marthe Vilotte
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Sylvain Marthey
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jérôme Lecardonnel
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jean-Luc Coville
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Jordi Estellé
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Andrea Rau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bourneuf
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
- Université de Paris Cité, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches Et Radiations, 92260, Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Giorgia Egidy
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, GABI, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
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17
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Dardano M, Lebek T, H. C. Tsang I. Exploring stem cell frontiers: definitions, challenges, and perspectives for regenerative medicine. Biol Open 2024; 13:bio060245. [PMID: 38592154 PMCID: PMC11033525 DOI: 10.1242/bio.060245] [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] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Each year, the European Summer School on Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (SCSS) attracts early-career researchers and actively practicing clinicians who specialise in stem cell and regenerative biology. The 16th edition of this influential course took place from 12th to 19th September 2023 on the charming Greek island of Spetses. Focusing on important concepts and recent advances in stem cells, the distinguished faculty included experts spanning the spectrum from fundamental research to clinical trials to market-approved therapies. Alongside an academically intensive programme that bridges the various contexts of stem cell research, delegates were encouraged to critically address relevant questions in stem cell biology and medicine, including broader societal implications. Here, we present a comprehensive overview and key highlights from the SCSS 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriana Dardano
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Tamina Lebek
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Ingrid H. C. Tsang
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
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18
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Chao G, Zukin S, Fortuna PRJ, Boettner B, Church GM. Progress and limitations in engineering cellular adhesion for research and therapeutics. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:277-287. [PMID: 37580241 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.007] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular interactions form the cornerstone of multicellular biology. Despite advances in protein engineering, researchers artificially directing physical cell interactions still rely on endogenous cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) alongside off-target interactions and unintended signaling. Recently, methods for directing cellular interactions have been developed utilizing programmable domains such as coiled coils (CCs), nanobody-antigen, and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). We first discuss desirable molecular- and systems-level properties in engineered CAMs, using the helixCAM platform as a benchmark. Next, we propose applications for engineered CAMs in immunology, developmental biology, tissue engineering, and neuroscience. Biologists in various fields can readily adapt current engineered CAMs to establish control over cell interactions, and their utilization in basic and translational research will incentivize further expansion in engineered CAM capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Chao
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Stefan Zukin
- Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - George M Church
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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19
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Gila F, Alamdari-Palangi V, Rafiee M, Jokar A, Ehtiaty S, Dianatinasab A, Khatami SH, Taheri-Anganeh M, Movahedpour A, Fallahi J. Gene-edited cells: novel allogeneic gene/cell therapy for epidermolysis bullosa. J Appl Genet 2024:10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2. [PMID: 38459407 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-024-00839-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic skin fragility disorders, which are hereditary. These disorders are associated with mutations in at least 16 genes that encode components of the epidermal adhesion complex. Currently, there are no effective treatments for this disorder. All current treatment approaches focus on topical treatments to prevent complications and infections. In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in the treatment of the severe genetic skin blistering condition known as EB through preclinical and clinical advancements. Promising developments have emerged in the areas of protein and cell therapies, such as allogeneic stem cell transplantation; in addition, RNA-based therapies and gene therapy approaches have also become a reality. Stem cells obtained from embryonic or adult tissues, including the skin, are undifferentiated cells with the ability to generate, maintain, and replace fully developed cells and tissues. Recent advancements in preclinical and clinical research have significantly enhanced stem cell therapy, presenting a promising treatment option for various diseases that are not effectively addressed by current medical treatments. Different types of stem cells such as primarily hematopoietic and mesenchymal, obtained from the patient or from a donor, have been utilized to treat severe forms of diseases, each with some beneficial effects. In addition, extensive research has shown that gene transfer methods targeting allogeneic and autologous epidermal stem cells to replace or correct the defective gene are promising. These methods can regenerate and restore the adhesion of primary keratinocytes in EB patients. The long-term treatment of skin lesions in a small number of patients has shown promising results through the transplantation of skin grafts produced from gene-corrected autologous epidermal stem cells. This article attempts to summarize the current situation, potential development prospects, and some of the challenges related to the cell therapy approach for EB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Gila
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vahab Alamdari-Palangi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maedeh Rafiee
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Arezoo Jokar
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sajad Ehtiaty
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aria Dianatinasab
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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20
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Liu Q, Liu J, Sun XH, Xu JY, Xiao C, Jiang HJ, Wu YD, Lin ZY. Macromolecular Crowding Enhances Matrix Protein Deposition in Tissue-Engineered Vascular Grafts. Tissue Eng Part A 2024. [PMID: 38318797 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2023.0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Successful in vitro culture of small-diameter tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) requires rapid deposition of biomacromolecules secreted by vascular smooth muscle cells in a polyglycolic acid mesh scaffold's three-dimensional (3D) porous environment. However, common media have lower crowding conditions than in vivo tissue fluids. In addition, during the early stages of construction, most of the biomolecules secreted by the cells into the medium are lost, which negatively affects the TEVG culture process. In this study, we propose the use of macromolecular crowding (MMC) to enhance medium crowding to improve the deposition and self-assembly efficiency of major biomolecules in the early stages of TEVG culture. The addition of carrageenan significantly increased the degree of MMC in the culture medium without affecting cell viability, proliferation, and metabolic activity. Protein analysis demonstrated that the deposition of collagen types I and III and fibronectin increased significantly in the cell layers of two-dimensional and 3D smooth muscle cell cultures after the addition of a MMC agent. Collagen type I in the culture medium decreased significantly compared with that in the medium without a MMC agent. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that MMC agents considerably enhanced the formation of matrix protein structures during the early stages of 3D culture. Hence, MMC modifies the crowding degree of the culture medium, resulting in the rapid formation of numerous matrix proteins and fiber structures. Impact Statement Small-diameter tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) are one of the most promising means of treating cardiovascular diseases; however, the in vitro construction of TEVGs has some limitations, such as slow deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), long culture period, and poor mechanical properties. We hypothesized that macromolecular crowding can increase the crowding of the culture medium to construct a more bionic microenvironment, which enhances ECM deposition in the medium to the cell layer and reduces collagen loss, accelerating and enhancing TEVG culture and construction in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu-Heng Sun
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Yi Xu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Xiao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Jing Jiang
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin-Di Wu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhan-Yi Lin
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Ji Hua Laboratory, Ji Hua Institute of Biomedical Engineering Technology, Foshan, China
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21
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Zhang Y, Cui J, Cang Z, Pei J, Zhang X, Song B, Fan X, Ma X, Li Y. Hair follicle stem cells promote epidermal regeneration under expanded condition. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1306011. [PMID: 38455843 PMCID: PMC10917960 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1306011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Skin soft tissue expansion is the process of obtaining excess skin mixed with skin development, wound healing, and mechanical stretching. Previous studies have reported that tissue expansion significantly induces epidermal proliferation throughout the skin. However, the mechanisms underlying epidermal regeneration during skin soft tissue expansion are yet to be clarified. Hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) have been recognized as a promising approach for epidermal regeneration. This study examines HFSC-related epidermal regeneration mechanisms under expanded condition and proposes a potential method for its cellular and molecular regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xing Fan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xianjie Ma
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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22
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Bischof J, Hierl M, Koller U. Emerging Gene Therapeutics for Epidermolysis Bullosa under Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2243. [PMID: 38396920 PMCID: PMC10889532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The monogenetic disease epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is characterised by the formation of extended blisters and lesions on the patient's skin upon minimal mechanical stress. Causal for this severe condition are genetic mutations in genes, leading to the functional impairment, reduction, or absence of the encoded protein within the skin's basement membrane zone connecting the epidermis to the underlying dermis. The major burden of affected families justifies the development of long-lasting and curative therapies operating at the genomic level. The landscape of causal therapies for EB is steadily expanding due to recent breakthroughs in the gene therapy field, providing promising outcomes for patients suffering from this severe disease. Currently, two gene therapeutic approaches show promise for EB. The clinically more advanced gene replacement strategy was successfully applied in severe EB forms, leading to a ground-breaking in vivo gene therapy product named beremagene geperpavec (B-VEC) recently approved from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, the continuous innovations in both designer nucleases and gene editing technologies enable the efficient and potentially safe repair of mutations in EB in a potentially permanent manner, inspiring researchers in the field to define and reach new milestones in the therapy of EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Bischof
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
| | - Markus Hierl
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, University of Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (J.B.); (M.H.)
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23
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Cattaneo C, Enzo E, De Rosa L, Sercia L, Consiglio F, Forcato M, Bicciato S, Paiardini A, Basso G, Tagliafico E, Paganelli A, Fiorentini C, Magnoni C, Latella MC, De Luca M. Allele-specific CRISPR-Cas9 editing of dominant epidermolysis bullosa simplex in human epidermal stem cells. Mol Ther 2024; 32:372-383. [PMID: 38053334 PMCID: PMC10861943 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.11.027] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) is a rare skin disease inherited mostly in an autosomal dominant manner. Patients display a skin fragility that leads to blisters and erosions caused by minor mechanical trauma. EBS phenotypic and genotypic variants are caused by genetic defects in intracellular proteins whose function is to provide the attachment of basal keratinocytes to the basement membrane zone and most EBS cases display mutations in keratin 5 (KRT5) and keratin 14 (KRT14) genes. Besides palliative treatments, there is still no long-lasting effective cure to correct the mutant gene and abolish the dominant negative effect of the pathogenic protein over its wild-type counterpart. Here, we propose a molecular strategy for EBS01 patient's keratinocytes carrying a monoallelic c.475/495del21 mutation in KRT14 exon 1. Through the CRISPR-Cas9 system, we perform a specific cleavage only on the mutant allele and restore a normal cellular phenotype and a correct intermediate filament network, without affecting the epidermal stem cell, referred to as holoclones, which play a crucial role in epidermal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cattaneo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - E Enzo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - L De Rosa
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - L Sercia
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - F Consiglio
- Holostem Terapie Avanzate, s.r.l, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - M Forcato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - S Bicciato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - A Paiardini
- Department of Biochemical Sciences 'A. Rossi Fanelli', Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - G Basso
- Genomic Units, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Tagliafico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - A Paganelli
- Regenerative and Oncological Dermatological Surgery Unit, Modena University Hospital, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - C Fiorentini
- Regenerative and Oncological Dermatological Surgery Unit, Modena University Hospital, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - C Magnoni
- Regenerative and Oncological Dermatological Surgery Unit, Modena University Hospital, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - M C Latella
- Holostem Terapie Avanzate, s.r.l, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - M De Luca
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine "Stefano Ferrari", Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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24
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Hainzl S, Trattner L, Liemberger B, Bischof J, Kocher T, Ablinger M, Nyström A, Obermayer A, Klausegger A, Guttmann-Gruber C, Wally V, Bauer JW, Hofbauer JP, Koller U. Splicing Modulation via Antisense Oligonucleotides in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:761. [PMID: 38255836 PMCID: PMC10815346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020761] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) represent an emerging therapeutic platform for targeting genetic diseases by influencing various aspects of (pre-)mRNA biology, such as splicing, stability, and translation. In this study, we investigated the potential of modulating the splicing pattern in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) patient cells carrying a frequent genomic variant (c.425A > G) that disrupts splicing in the COL7A1 gene by using short 2'-O-(2-Methoxyethyl) oligoribo-nucleotides (2'-MOE ASOs). COL7A1-encoded type VII collagen (C7) forms the anchoring fibrils within the skin that are essential for the attachment of the epidermis to the underlying dermis. As such, gene variants of COL7A1 leading to functionally impaired or absent C7 manifest in the form of extensive blistering and wounding. The severity of the disease pattern warrants the development of novel therapies for patients. The c.425A > G variant at the COL7A1 exon 3/intron 3 junction lowers the efficiency of splicing at this junction, resulting in non-functional C7 transcripts. However, we found that correct splicing still occurs, albeit at a very low level, highlighting an opportunity for intervention by modulating the splicing reaction. We therefore screened 2'-MOE ASOs that bind along the COL7A1 target region ranging from exon 3 to the intron 3/exon 4 junction for their ability to modulate splicing. We identified ASOs capable of increasing the relative levels of correctly spliced COL7A1 transcripts by RT-PCR, sqRT-PCR, and ddPCR. Furthermore, RDEB-derived skin equivalents treated with one of the most promising ASOs exhibited an increase in full-length C7 expression and its accurate deposition along the basement membrane zone (BMZ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Hainzl
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Lisa Trattner
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Bernadette Liemberger
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Johannes Bischof
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Thomas Kocher
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Michael Ablinger
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Alexander Nyström
- Department of Dermatology, Medical Faculty, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg, Germany;
| | - Astrid Obermayer
- Core Facility of Electron Microscopy, Department of Environment & Biodiversity, Paris Lodron University Salzburg (PLUS Salzburg), 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Alfred Klausegger
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Christina Guttmann-Gruber
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Verena Wally
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Johann W. Bauer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Josefina Piñón Hofbauer
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
| | - Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (S.H.); (L.T.); (B.L.); (J.B.); (T.K.); (M.A.); (A.K.); (C.G.-G.); (V.W.); (J.P.H.)
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25
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Beumer J, Clevers H. Hallmarks of stemness in mammalian tissues. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:7-24. [PMID: 38181752 PMCID: PMC10769195 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.006] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
All adult tissues experience wear and tear. Most tissues can compensate for cell loss through the activity of resident stem cells. Although the cellular maintenance strategies vary greatly between different adult (read: postnatal) tissues, the function of stem cells is best defined by their capacity to replace lost tissue through division. We discuss a set of six complementary hallmarks that are key enabling features of this basic function. These include longevity and self-renewal, multipotency, transplantability, plasticity, dependence on niche signals, and maintenance of genome integrity. We discuss these hallmarks in the context of some of the best-understood adult stem cell niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joep Beumer
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Hans Clevers
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Basel, Switzerland.
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26
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Altshuler A, Amitai-Lange A, Nasser W, Dimri S, Bhattacharya S, Tiosano B, Barbara R, Aberdam D, Shimmura S, Shalom-Feuerstein R. Eyes open on stem cells. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:2313-2327. [PMID: 38039972 PMCID: PMC10724227 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the murine cornea has reemerged as a robust stem cell (SC) model, allowing individual SC tracing in living animals. The cornea has pioneered seminal discoveries in SC biology and regenerative medicine, from the first corneal transplantation in 1905 to the identification of limbal SCs and their transplantation to successfully restore vision in the early 1990s. Recent experiments have exposed unexpected properties attributed to SCs and progenitors and revealed flexibility in the differentiation program and a key role for the SC niche. Here, we discuss the limbal SC model and its broader relevance to other tissues, disease, and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Altshuler
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel.
| | - Aya Amitai-Lange
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Waseem Nasser
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Shalini Dimri
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Swarnabh Bhattacharya
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Beatrice Tiosano
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Ramez Barbara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Daniel Aberdam
- Université Paris-Cité, INSERM U1138, Centre des Cordeliers, 75270 Paris, France
| | - Shigeto Shimmura
- Department of Clinical Regenerative Medicine, Fujita Medical Innovation Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ruby Shalom-Feuerstein
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel.
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27
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Ragazzini R, Boeing S, Zanieri L, Green M, D'Agostino G, Bartolovic K, Agua-Doce A, Greco M, Watson SA, Batsivari A, Ariza-McNaughton L, Gjinovci A, Scoville D, Nam A, Hayday AC, Bonnet D, Bonfanti P. Defining the identity and the niches of epithelial stem cells with highly pleiotropic multilineage potency in the human thymus. Dev Cell 2023; 58:2428-2446.e9. [PMID: 37652013 PMCID: PMC10957394 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.08.017] [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: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Thymus is necessary for lifelong immunological tolerance and immunity. It displays a distinctive epithelial complexity and undergoes age-dependent atrophy. Nonetheless, it also retains regenerative capacity, which, if harnessed appropriately, might permit rejuvenation of adaptive immunity. By characterizing cortical and medullary compartments in the human thymus at single-cell resolution, in this study we have defined specific epithelial populations, including those that share properties with bona fide stem cells (SCs) of lifelong regenerating epidermis. Thymic epithelial SCs display a distinctive transcriptional profile and phenotypic traits, including pleiotropic multilineage potency, to give rise to several cell types that were not previously considered to have shared origin. Using here identified SC markers, we have defined their cortical and medullary niches and shown that, in vitro, the cells display long-term clonal expansion and self-organizing capacity. These data substantively broaden our knowledge of SC biology and set a stage for tackling thymic atrophy and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Ragazzini
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Pears Building, Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 2PP, UK
| | - Stefan Boeing
- Bioinformatics & Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Luca Zanieri
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Pears Building, Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 2PP, UK
| | - Mary Green
- Experimental Histopathology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Giuseppe D'Agostino
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Plasticell Limited, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Kerol Bartolovic
- Flow Cytometry Core, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Ana Agua-Doce
- Flow Cytometry Core, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Maria Greco
- Single Cell Facility, MRC WIMM, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Sara A Watson
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Antoniana Batsivari
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Linda Ariza-McNaughton
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Asllan Gjinovci
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Pears Building, Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 2PP, UK
| | | | - Andy Nam
- NanoString Technologies Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Adrian C Hayday
- Immunosurveillance Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Dominique Bonnet
- Haematopoietic Stem Cell Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Paola Bonfanti
- Epithelial Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Division of Infection & Immunity, UCL, Pears Building, Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 2PP, UK.
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28
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Ma L, Thapa BR, Le Suer JA, Tilston-Lünel A, Herriges MJ, Berical A, Beermann ML, Wang F, Bawa PS, Kohn A, Ysasi AB, Kiyokawa H, Matte TM, Randell SH, Varelas X, Hawkins FJ, Kotton DN. Airway stem cell reconstitution by the transplantation of primary or pluripotent stem cell-derived basal cells. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:1199-1216.e7. [PMID: 37625411 PMCID: PMC10528754 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Life-long reconstitution of a tissue's resident stem cell compartment with engrafted cells has the potential to durably replenish organ function. Here, we demonstrate the engraftment of the airway epithelial stem cell compartment via intra-airway transplantation of mouse or human primary and pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived airway basal cells (BCs). Murine primary or PSC-derived BCs transplanted into polidocanol-injured syngeneic recipients give rise for at least two years to progeny that stably display the morphologic, molecular, and functional phenotypes of airway epithelia. The engrafted basal-like cells retain extensive self-renewal potential, evident by the capacity to reconstitute the tracheal epithelium through seven generations of secondary transplantation. Using the same approach, human primary or PSC-derived BCs transplanted into NOD scid gamma (NSG) recipient mice similarly display multilineage airway epithelial differentiation in vivo. Our results may provide a step toward potential future syngeneic cell-based therapy for patients with diseases resulting from airway epithelial cell damage or dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ma
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Bibek R Thapa
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jake A Le Suer
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Andrew Tilston-Lünel
- The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Michael J Herriges
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Andrew Berical
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Mary Lou Beermann
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Feiya Wang
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Pushpinder S Bawa
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Anat Kohn
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Alexandra B Ysasi
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Hirofumi Kiyokawa
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Taylor M Matte
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Scott H Randell
- Marsico Lung Institute/Cystic Fibrosis Center, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xaralabos Varelas
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Finn J Hawkins
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Darrell N Kotton
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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29
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Redhead C, Taye N, Hubmacher D. En route towards a personalized medicine approach: Innovative therapeutic modalities for connective tissue disorders. Matrix Biol 2023; 122:46-54. [PMID: 37657665 PMCID: PMC10529529 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Connective tissue disorders can be caused by pathogenic variants (mutations) in genes encoding extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Such disorders typically manifest during development or postnatal growth and result in significant morbidity and mortality. The development of curative treatments for connective tissue disorders is hampered in part by the inability of many mature connective tissues to efficiently regenerate. To be most effective, therapeutic strategies designed to preserve or restore tissue function will likely need to be initiated during phases of significant endogenous connective tissue remodeling and organ sculpting postnatally and directly target the underlying ECM protein mutations. With recent advances in whole exome sequencing, in-vitro and in-vivo disease modeling, and the development of mutation-specific molecular therapeutic modalities, it is now feasible to directly correct disease-causing mutations underlying connective tissue disorders and ameliorate their pathogenic consequences. These technological advances may lead to potentially curative personalized medicine approaches for connective tissue disorders that have previously been considered incurable. In this review, we highlight innovative therapeutic modalities including gene replacement, exon skipping, DNA/mRNA editing, and pharmacological approaches that were used to preserve or restore tissue function in the context of connective tissue disorders. Inherent to a successful application of these approaches is the need to deepen the understanding of mechanisms that regulate ECM formation and homeostasis, and to decipher how individual mutations in ECM proteins compromise ECM and connective tissue development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Redhead
- Orthopedic Research Laboratories, Leni & Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Nandaraj Taye
- Orthopedic Research Laboratories, Leni & Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Dirk Hubmacher
- Orthopedic Research Laboratories, Leni & Peter W. May Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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30
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Bueren JA, Auricchio A. Advances and Challenges in the Development of Gene Therapy Medicinal Products for Rare Diseases. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:763-775. [PMID: 37694572 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.152] [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] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of viral vectors and recombinant DNA technology since the 1960s has enabled gene therapy to become a real therapeutic option for several inherited and acquired diseases. After several ups and downs in the gene therapy field, we are currently living a new era in the history of medicine in which several ex vivo and in vivo gene therapies have reached maturity. This is testified by the recent marketing authorization of several gene therapy medicinal products. In addition, many others are currently under evaluation after exhaustive investigation in human clinical trials. In this review, we summarize some of the most significant milestones in the development of gene therapy medicinal products that have already facilitated the treatment of a significant number of rare diseases. Despite progresses in the gene therapy field, the transfer of these innovative therapies to clinical practice is also finding important restrictions. Advances and also challenges in the progress of gene therapy for rare diseases are discussed in this opening review of a Human Gene Therapy issue dedicated to the 30th annual Congress of the European Society for Gene and Cell Therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan A Bueren
- Biomedical Innovation Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Auricchio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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31
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Malta MD, Cerqueira MT, Marques AP. Extracellular matrix in skin diseases: The road to new therapies. J Adv Res 2023; 51:149-160. [PMID: 36481476 PMCID: PMC10491993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a vital structure with a dynamic and complex organization that plays an essential role in tissue homeostasis. In the skin, the ECM is arranged into two types of compartments: interstitial dermal matrix and basement membrane (BM). All evidence in the literature supports the notion that direct dysregulation of the composition, abundance or structure of one of these types of ECM, or indirect modifications in proteins that interact with them is linked to a wide range of human skin pathologies, including hereditary, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases. Even though the ECM's key role in these pathologies has been widely documented, its potential as a therapeutic target has been overlooked. AIM OF REVIEW This review discusses the molecular mechanisms involved in three groups of skin ECM-related diseases - genetic, autoimmune, and neoplastic - and the recent therapeutic progress and opportunities targeting ECM. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This article describes the implications of alterations in ECM components and in BM-associated molecules that are determinant for guaranteeing its function in different skin disorders. Also, ongoing clinical trials on ECM-targeted therapies are discussed together with future opportunities that may open new avenues for treating ECM-associated skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Malta
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - M T Cerqueira
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - A P Marques
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal.
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32
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Witkowski TA, Li B, Andersen JG, Kumar B, Mroz EA, Rocco JW. Y-27632 acts beyond ROCK inhibition to maintain epidermal stem-like cells in culture. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs260990. [PMID: 37698512 PMCID: PMC10508688 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.260990] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Conditional reprogramming is a cell culture technique that effectively immortalizes epithelial cells with normal genotypes by renewing epidermal stem cells. Y-27632, a compound that promotes conditional reprogramming through an unknown mechanism, was developed to inhibit the two Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) isoforms. We used human foreskin keratinocytes (HFKs) to study the role of Y-27632 in conditional reprogramming and learn how ROCKs control epidermal stem cell renewal. In conditional reprogramming, Y-27632 increased HFK adherence to culture dishes, progression through S, G2 and M phases of the cell cycle, and epidermal stem cell marker levels. Although this correlated with ROCK inhibition by Y-27632, we generated CRISPR-Cas9-mediated HFK ROCK knockouts to test the direct role of ROCK inhibition. Knockout of single ROCK isoforms was insufficient to disrupt ROCK activity or promote HFK propagation without Y-27632. Although ROCK activity was reduced, HFKs with double knockout of ROCK1 and ROCK2 still required Y-27632 to propagate. Y-27632 was the most effective among the ROCK inhibitors we tested at promoting HFK proliferation and epidermal stem cell marker expression. Thus, the ability of Y-27632 to promote an epidermal stem cell state in conditional reprogramming not only depends upon ROCK inhibition but also acts via as-yet-unidentified mechanisms. Epidermal stem cell renewal might in part be regulated by ROCKs, but also involves additional pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis A. Witkowski
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jason G. Andersen
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Bhavna Kumar
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Edmund A. Mroz
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - James W. Rocco
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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33
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Hong ZX, Zhu ST, Li H, Luo JZ, Yang Y, An Y, Wang X, Wang K. Bioengineered skin organoids: from development to applications. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:40. [PMID: 37605220 PMCID: PMC10463602 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00475-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant advancements have been made in recent years in the development of highly sophisticated skin organoids. Serving as three-dimensional models that mimic human skin, these organoids have evolved into complex structures and are increasingly recognized as effective alternatives to traditional culture models and human skin due to their ability to overcome the limitations of two-dimensional systems and ethical concerns. The inherent plasticity of skin organoids allows for their construction into physiological and pathological models, enabling the study of skin development and dynamic changes. This review provides an overview of the pivotal work in the progression from 3D layered epidermis to cyst-like skin organoids with appendages. Furthermore, it highlights the latest advancements in organoid construction facilitated by state-of-the-art engineering techniques, such as 3D printing and microfluidic devices. The review also summarizes and discusses the diverse applications of skin organoids in developmental biology, disease modelling, regenerative medicine, and personalized medicine, while considering their prospects and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Xuan Hong
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shun-Tian Zhu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jing-Zhi Luo
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang An
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xi Wang
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Beijing, 100037, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Czop JK, Jałowska M. Stem cells in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2023; 40:504-509. [PMID: 37692263 PMCID: PMC10485752 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2023.130498] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells (SCs) have multiple applications in today's medicine including aesthetic dermatology and plastic surgery. The purpose of this paper is to review some clinical use of mesenchymal SCs. The main focus was put on adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) as these cells are easy to harvest and because of their properties showed great potential in many studies, where they proved to accelerate wound healing, reduce scars, cause hair regrowth, or rejuvenate skin. Furthermore, when added to lipofilling procedures, such as breast augmentation they enhance fat graft survival and provide satisfying results. Currently, many different strategies for using SCs in treatments are developed with great efficacy, however, there are still many limitations and concerns regarding their clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Katarzyna Czop
- Department of Dermatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Magdalena Jałowska
- Department of Dermatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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35
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Jin Y, Li S, Yu Q, Chen T, Liu D. Application of stem cells in regeneration medicine. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e291. [PMID: 37337579 PMCID: PMC10276889 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Regeneration is a complex process affected by many elements independent or combined, including inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Stem cells is a class of primitive cells with the potentiality of differentiation, regenerate with self-replication, multidirectional differentiation, and immunomodulatory functions. Stem cells and their cytokines not only inextricably linked to the regeneration of ectodermal and skin tissues, but also can be used for the treatment of a variety of chronic wounds. Stem cells can produce exosomes in a paracrine manner. Stem cell exosomes play an important role in tissue regeneration, repair, and accelerated wound healing, the biological properties of which are similar with stem cells, while stem cell exosomes are safer and more effective. Skin and bone tissues are critical organs in the body, which are essential for sustaining life activities. The weak repairing ability leads a pronounced impact on the quality of life of patients, which could be alleviated by stem cell exosomes treatment. However, there are obstacles that stem cells and stem cells exosomes trough skin for improved bioavailability. This paper summarizes the applications and mechanisms of stem cells and stem cells exosomes for skin and bone healing. We also propose new ways of utilizing stem cells and their exosomes through different nanoformulations, liposomes and nanoliposomes, polymer micelles, microspheres, hydrogels, and scaffold microneedles, to improve their use in tissue healing and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Jin
- School of PharmacyChangchun University of Chinese MedicineChangchunJilinChina
| | - Shuangyang Li
- School of PharmacyChangchun University of Chinese MedicineChangchunJilinChina
| | - Qixuan Yu
- School of PharmacyChangchun University of Chinese MedicineChangchunJilinChina
| | - Tianli Chen
- School of PharmacyChangchun University of Chinese MedicineChangchunJilinChina
| | - Da Liu
- School of PharmacyChangchun University of Chinese MedicineChangchunJilinChina
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36
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Abudurexiti M, Zhao Y, Wang X, Han L, Liu T, Wang C, Yuan Z. Bio-Inspired Nanocarriers Derived from Stem Cells and Their Extracellular Vesicles for Targeted Drug Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2011. [PMID: 37514197 PMCID: PMC10386614 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15072011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
With their seemingly limitless capacity for self-improvement, stem cells have a wide range of potential uses in the medical field. Stem-cell-secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs), as paracrine components of stem cells, are natural nanoscale particles that transport a variety of biological molecules and facilitate cell-to-cell communication which have been also widely used for targeted drug delivery. These nanocarriers exhibit inherent advantages, such as strong cell or tissue targeting and low immunogenicity, which synthetic nanocarriers lack. However, despite the tremendous therapeutic potential of stem cells and EVs, their further clinical application is still limited by low yield and a lack of standardized isolation and purification protocols. In recent years, inspired by the concept of biomimetics, a new approach to biomimetic nanocarriers for drug delivery has been developed through combining nanotechnology and bioengineering. This article reviews the application of biomimetic nanocarriers derived from stem cells and their EVs in targeted drug delivery and discusses their advantages and challenges in order to stimulate future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munire Abudurexiti
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chendu 610041, China; (M.A.); (X.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Tianfu New Area People’s Hospital, Chengdu 610213, China;
| | - Xiaoling Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chendu 610041, China; (M.A.); (X.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Lu Han
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chendu 610041, China; (M.A.); (X.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Tianqing Liu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead 2145, Australia;
| | - Chengwei Wang
- Division of Internal Medicine, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhixiang Yuan
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chendu 610041, China; (M.A.); (X.W.); (L.H.)
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37
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Koller U. Gene therapy advances shine the spotlight on epidermolysis bullosa, bringing hope to patients. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1860-1861. [PMID: 37369206 PMCID: PMC10362411 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Koller
- EB House Austria, Research Program for Molecular Therapy of Genodermatoses, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
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38
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Lu X, Jin H. A Review of CRISPR-Based Advances in Dermatological Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2023; 27:445-456. [PMID: 37041404 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-023-00642-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) has revolutionized biomedical research by offering novel approaches to genetic and epigenetic manipulation. In dermatology, it has significantly promoted our understanding of complex diseases, and shown great potential in therapeutic applications. In this review, we introduce the adoption of CRISPR technology as a tool to study different types of skin disorders, including monogenic genodermatoses, inflammatory disorders, and cutaneous infections. We highlight the promising preclinical results of CRISPR-mediated treatment and important mechanic discoveries in investigative studies. Future opportunities and remaining challenges are also discussed. We predict that CRISPR will be more extensively used for dermatological research and even be accessible to patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lu
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hongzhong Jin
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, 100730, China.
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39
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Roshandel D, Semnani F, Rayati Damavandi A, Masoudi A, Baradaran-Rafii A, Watson SL, Morgan WH, McLenachan S. Genetic predisposition to ocular surface disorders and opportunities for gene-based therapies. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:150-165. [PMID: 37192706 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.05.003] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The ocular surface, comprised of the corneal and conjunctival epithelium, innervation system, immune components, and tear-film apparatus, plays a key role in ocular integrity as well as comfort and vision. Gene defects may result in congenital ocular or systemic disorders with prominent ocular surface involvement. Examples include epithelial corneal dystrophies, aniridia, ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-clefting (EEC) syndrome, xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), and hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy. In addition, genetic factors may interact with environmental risk factors in the development of several multifactorial ocular surface disorders (OSDs) such as autoimmune disorders, allergies, neoplasms, and dry eye disease. Advanced gene-based technologies have already been introduced in disease modelling and proof-of-concept gene therapies for monogenic OSDs. For instance, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells have been used for modelling aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK), XP, and EEC syndrome. Moreover, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing has been used for disease modelling and/or gene therapy for AAK and Meesmann's epithelial corneal dystrophy. A better understanding of the role of genetic factors in OSDs may be helpful in designing personalized disease models and treatment approaches. Gene-based approaches in monogenic OSDs and genetic predisposition to multifactorial OSDs such as immune-mediated disorders and neoplasms with known or possible genetic risk factors has been seldom reviewed. In this narrative review, we discuss the role of genetic factors in monogenic and multifactorial OSDs and potential opportunities for gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Roshandel
- Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Farbod Semnani
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmasoud Rayati Damavandi
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Masoudi
- Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alireza Baradaran-Rafii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Ophthalmology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Stephanie L Watson
- The University of Sydney, Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William H Morgan
- Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
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40
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Park JC, Park MJ, Lee SY, Kim D, Kim KT, Jang HK, Cha HJ. Gene editing with 'pencil' rather than 'scissors' in human pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:164. [PMID: 37340491 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03394-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to the advances in genome editing technologies, research on human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have recently undergone breakthroughs that enable precise alteration of desired nucleotide bases in hPSCs for the creation of isogenic disease models or for autologous ex vivo cell therapy. As pathogenic variants largely consist of point mutations, precise substitution of mutated bases in hPSCs allows researchers study disease mechanisms with "disease-in-a-dish" and provide functionally repaired cells to patients for cell therapy. To this end, in addition to utilizing the conventional homologous directed repair system in the knock-in strategy based on endonuclease activity of Cas9 (i.e., 'scissors' like gene editing), diverse toolkits for editing the desirable bases (i.e., 'pencils' like gene editing) that avoid the accidental insertion and deletion (indel) mutations as well as large harmful deletions have been developed. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in genome editing methodologies and employment of hPSCs for future translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Chan Park
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mihn Jeong Park
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dayeon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun-Tae Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon-Ki Jang
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Hyuk-Jin Cha
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, 08826, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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41
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Capelli C, Cuofano C, Pavoni C, Frigerio S, Lisini D, Nava S, Quaroni M, Colombo V, Galli F, Bezukladova S, Panina-Bordignon P, Gaipa G, Comoli P, Cossu G, Martino G, Biondi A, Introna M, Golay J. Potency assays and biomarkers for cell-based advanced therapy medicinal products. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1186224. [PMID: 37359560 PMCID: PMC10288881 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1186224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) based on somatic cells expanded in vitro, with or without genetic modification, is a rapidly growing area of drug development, even more so following the marketing approval of several such products. ATMPs are produced according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in authorized laboratories. Potency assays are a fundamental aspect of the quality control of the end cell products and ideally could become useful biomarkers of efficacy in vivo. Here we summarize the state of the art with regard to potency assays used for the assessment of the quality of the major ATMPs used clinic settings. We also review the data available on biomarkers that may substitute more complex functional potency tests and predict the efficacy in vivo of these cell-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Capelli
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani", ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Carolina Cuofano
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani", ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavoni
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani", ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Simona Frigerio
- Cell Therapy Production Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Lisini
- Cell Therapy Production Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Nava
- Cell Therapy Production Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Quaroni
- Laboratory of Cell and Gene Therapy Stefano Verri, ASST Monza Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Valentina Colombo
- Laboratory of Cell and Gene Therapy Stefano Verri, ASST Monza Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesco Galli
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH), University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Svetlana Bezukladova
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Panina-Bordignon
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gaipa
- Laboratory of Cell and Gene Therapy Stefano Verri, ASST Monza Ospedale San Gerardo, Monza, Italy
| | - Patrizia Comoli
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulio Cossu
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH), University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianvito Martino
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Milan, Italy
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Martino Introna
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani", ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Josée Golay
- Center of Cellular Therapy "G. Lanzani", ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
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42
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Chen F, Guo X, Wu Y. Skin antiaging effects of a multiple mechanisms hyaluronan complex. Skin Res Technol 2023; 29:e13350. [PMID: 37357659 PMCID: PMC10225814 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intrinsic skin aging is an inevitable process with reduced extracellular matrix deposition and impaired mechanical integrity in the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ). Hyaluronan is one of the most promising natural ingredients. In this research, multiple mechanisms of a novel hyaluronan complex against intrinsic skin aging were revealed. METHOD Immunohistochemical analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were employed to evaluate the effect of low-molecular weight sodium hyaluronan, its acetylated derivative and HA complex on expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and type I collagen in normal human fibroblasts. Then, immunohistochemical analysis and hematoxylin and eosin staining was carried out to evaluate identical effects of HA complex in reconstructed skin equivalents, as well as its benefits on histological structure and DEJ. RESULT In normal human dermal fibroblasts, the hyaluronan complex, which contains low-molecular weight sodium hyaluronate and its acetylated derivative, has synergistic effects by increasing type I collagen expression. At the same time, MMP-1 production was inhibited. This was confirmed in subsequent experiments with skin equivalent, and intriguingly, the hyaluronan complex was also found to increase the expression of two DEJ proteins. CONCLUSION The multimechanism hyaluronan complex in this proof-of-concept study exhibited skin antiaging effects in vitro through inhibiting the expression of MMP-1 and enhancing type I collagen accumulation and the expression of DEJ proteins, which reveals new avenues for investigating more biological activities of various types of hyaluronan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Chen
- Department of Research and DevelopmentBloomage Biotechnology Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
| | - Xueping Guo
- Department of Research and DevelopmentBloomage Biotechnology Co., Ltd.JinanChina
| | - Yue Wu
- Department of Research and DevelopmentBloomage Biotechnology Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
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43
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Stabell AR, Lee GE, Jia Y, Wong KN, Wang S, Ling J, Nguyen SD, Sen GL, Nie Q, Atwood SX. Single-cell transcriptomics of human-skin-equivalent organoids. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112511. [PMID: 37195865 PMCID: PMC10348600 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112511] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Several methods for generating human-skin-equivalent (HSE) organoid cultures are in use to study skin biology; however, few studies thoroughly characterize these systems. To fill this gap, we use single-cell transcriptomics to compare in vitro HSEs, xenograft HSEs, and in vivo epidermis. By combining differential gene expression, pseudotime analyses, and spatial localization, we reconstruct HSE keratinocyte differentiation trajectories that recapitulate known in vivo epidermal differentiation pathways and show that HSEs contain major in vivo cellular states. However, HSEs also develop unique keratinocyte states, an expanded basal stem cell program, and disrupted terminal differentiation. Cell-cell communication modeling shows aberrant epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated signaling pathways that alter upon epidermal growth factor (EGF) supplementation. Last, xenograft HSEs at early time points post transplantation significantly rescue many in vitro deficits while undergoing a hypoxic response that drives an alternative differentiation lineage. This study highlights the strengths and limitations of organoid cultures and identifies areas for potential innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam R Stabell
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Grace E Lee
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Yunlong Jia
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Kirsten N Wong
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Shuxiong Wang
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Ji Ling
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sandrine D Nguyen
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - George L Sen
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UCSD Stem Cell Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Qing Nie
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Center for Complex Biological Systems, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Scott X Atwood
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Center for Complex Biological Systems, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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44
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McKinley KL, Longaker MT, Naik S. Emerging frontiers in regenerative medicine. Science 2023; 380:796-798. [PMID: 37228215 PMCID: PMC10493035 DOI: 10.1126/science.add6492] [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: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Bridging knowledge gaps could enable regenerative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara L McKinley
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Standford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shruti Naik
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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45
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Polito MP, Marini G, Palamenghi M, Enzo E. Decoding the Human Epidermal Complexity at Single-Cell Resolution. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108544. [PMID: 37239891 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidermis is one of the largest tissues in the human body, serving as a protective barrier. The basal layer of the epidermis, which consists of epithelial stem cells and transient amplifying progenitors, represents its proliferative compartment. As keratinocytes migrate from the basal layer to the skin surface, they exit the cell cycle and initiate terminal differentiation, ultimately generating the suprabasal epidermal layers. A deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathways driving keratinocytes' organization and regeneration is essential for successful therapeutic approaches. Single-cell techniques are valuable tools for studying molecular heterogeneity. The high-resolution characterization obtained with these technologies has identified disease-specific drivers and new therapeutic targets, further promoting the advancement of personalized therapies. This review summarizes the latest findings on the transcriptomic and epigenetic profiling of human epidermal cells, analyzed from human biopsy or after in vitro cultivation, focusing on physiological, wound healing, and inflammatory skin conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pia Polito
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''Stefano Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Grazia Marini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''Stefano Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Michele Palamenghi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''Stefano Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Enzo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''Stefano Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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46
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Nanba D, Sakabe JI, Mosig J, Brouard M, Toki F, Shimokawa M, Kamiya M, Braschler T, Azzabi F, Droz-Georget Lathion S, Johnsson K, Roy K, Schmid CD, Bureau JB, Rochat A, Barrandon Y. Low temperature and mTOR inhibition favor stem cell maintenance in human keratinocyte cultures. EMBO Rep 2023:e55439. [PMID: 37139607 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202255439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult autologous human epidermal stem cells can be extensively expanded ex vivo for cell and gene therapy. Identifying the mechanisms involved in stem cell maintenance and defining culture conditions to maintain stemness is critical, because an inadequate environment can result in the rapid conversion of stem cells into progenitors/transient amplifying cells (clonal conversion), with deleterious consequences on the quality of the transplants and their ability to engraft. Here, we demonstrate that cultured human epidermal stem cells respond to a small drop in temperature through thermoTRP channels via mTOR signaling. Exposure of cells to rapamycin or a small drop in temperature induces the nuclear translocation of mTOR with an impact on gene expression. We also demonstrate by single-cell analysis that long-term inhibition of mTORC1 reduces clonal conversion and favors the maintenance of stemness. Taken together, our results demonstrate that human keratinocyte stem cells can adapt to environmental changes (e.g., small variations in temperature) through mTOR signaling and constant inhibition of mTORC1 favors stem cell maintenance, a finding of high importance for regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Nanba
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Aging and Regeneration, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Sakabe
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore City, Singapore
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital and A*STAR Skin Research Labs, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Johannes Mosig
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michel Brouard
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fujio Toki
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Aging and Regeneration, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mariko Shimokawa
- Division of Aging and Regeneration, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mako Kamiya
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Braschler
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fahd Azzabi
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Droz-Georget Lathion
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kai Johnsson
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Keya Roy
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore City, Singapore
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital and A*STAR Skin Research Labs, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Christoph D Schmid
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Baptiste Bureau
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ariane Rochat
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yann Barrandon
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Dynamics, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore City, Singapore
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital and A*STAR Skin Research Labs, Singapore City, Singapore
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47
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Adamo D, Attico E, Pellegrini G. Education for the translation of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1125892. [PMID: 37081845 PMCID: PMC10110892 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1125892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Davide Adamo
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine “Stefano Ferrari”, Interdepartmental Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CIDSTEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- *Correspondence: Davide Adamo
| | - Eustachio Attico
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine “Stefano Ferrari”, Interdepartmental Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CIDSTEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Graziella Pellegrini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine “Stefano Ferrari”, Interdepartmental Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CIDSTEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Holostem Terapie Avanzate s.r.l., Modena, Italy
- Graziella Pellegrini
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48
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Faust A, Woydack L, Strech D. Should the governance of individual treatment attempts ("Individuelle Heilversuche") include praxis evaluation? Results from qualitative stakeholder interviews. Health Policy 2023; 130:104752. [PMID: 36812859 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104752] [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: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Individual treatment attempts (ITAs) are a German concept for the treatment of individual patients by physicians with nonstandard therapeutic approaches. Due to the lack of evidence, ITAs come with a high amount of uncertainty regarding the risk-benefit ratio. Despite the high uncertainty, no prospective review and no systematic retrospective evaluation of ITAs are required in Germany. Our objective was to explore stakeholders' attitudes toward the retrospective evaluation (monitoring) or prospective evaluation (review) of ITAs. METHODS We conducted a qualitative interview study among relevant stakeholder groups. We used the SWOT framework to represent the stakeholders' attitudes. We applied content analysis to the recorded and transcribed interviews in MAXQDA. RESULTS Twenty interviewees participated and pointed to several arguments in favor of the retrospective evaluation of ITAs (e.g. knowledge gain about circumstances of ITAs). The interviewees expressed concerns regarding the validity and practical relevance of the evaluation results. The viewpoints on review addressed several contextual factors. CONCLUSION The current situation with a complete lack of evaluation insufficiently reflects safety concerns. German health policy decision makers should be more explicit about where and why evaluation is needed. Prospective and retrospective evaluations should be piloted in areas of ITAs with a particularly high uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Faust
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, QUEST Center for Responsible Research, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Str. 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany; Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Institut für Ethik, Geschichte und Philosophie der Medizin, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Lena Woydack
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, QUEST Center for Responsible Research, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Str. 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Strech
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, QUEST Center for Responsible Research, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Str. 2, 10178 Berlin, Germany
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Alawi SA, Rudari M, Dragu A. [Evidence-based Research in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery: Cross-sectional Analysis of Research Papers Between 2019 and 2021]. HANDCHIR MIKROCHIR P 2023; 55:159-166. [PMID: 37023760 DOI: 10.1055/a-1992-5705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the field of plastic and aesthetic surgery, continuous international publication is seen annually. However, the publication output is not regularly assessed for its level of evidence. In view of the strong publication activity, a regular assessment of the evidence level of the current publication years is reasonable and was the objective of this work. MATERIAL AND METHODS We evaluated the Journal of Hand Surgery/JHS (European Volume Journal), the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery/PRS and the journal Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie und Plastische Chirurige/HaMiPla from January 2019 to December 2021. The authors' affiliation, the type of publication, the number of patients examined and the level of evidence with existing conflicts of interest were considered. RESULTS A total of 1341 publications were evaluated. Of these, 334 original papers were published in JHS, 896 in PRS, and 111 in HaMiPla. The largest share were retrospective papers (53.5%, n=718). The further distribution was as follows: 18% (n=237) clinical prospective papers, 3.4% (n=47) randomised clinical trials (RCT), 12.5% (n=168) experimental papers and 6.5% (n=88) anatomic studies. The distribution of evidence levels of all studies was as follows: Level I: 1.6% (n=21), Level II: 8.7% (n=116), Level III: 20.3% (n=272), Level IV: 25.2% (n=338), Level V: 2.3% (n=31). In 42% (n=563) of the papers, there was no indication of the level of evidence. Most level I evidence was from university hospitals (n=16) in 76.2% (χ²-test 0.619, >0.05, 95% confidence interval). CONCLUSION Although RCTs are inappropriate for many surgical questions, well-designed and conducted cohort or case-control studies could improve the evidence base. Many of the current studies tend to be retrospective and do not have a control group. Researchers in the field of plastic surgery should consider using a cohort or case-control design when an RCT is not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Arash Alawi
- UniversitätsCentrum für Orthopädie, Unfall- & Plastische Chirurgie, Abteilung für Plastische und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden
| | - Michele Rudari
- UniversitätsCentrum für Orthopädie, Unfall- & Plastische Chirurgie, Abteilung für Plastische und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden
| | - Adrian Dragu
- UniversitätsCentrum für Orthopädie, Unfall- & Plastische Chirurgie, Abteilung für Plastische und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden
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Niti A, Koliakos G, Michopoulou A. Stem Cell Therapies for Epidermolysis Bullosa Treatment. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040422. [PMID: 37106609 PMCID: PMC10135837 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) includes a group of rare skin diseases characterized by skin fragility with bullous formation in the skin, in response to minor mechanical injury, as well as varying degrees of involvement of the mucous membranes of the internal organs. EB is classified into simplex, junctional, dystrophic and mixed. The impact of the disease on patients is both physical and psychological, with the result that their quality of life is constantly affected. Unfortunately, there are still no approved treatments available to confront the disease, and treatment focuses on improving the symptoms with topical treatments to avoid complications and other infections. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of producing, maintaining and replacing terminally differentiated cells and tissues. Stem cells can be isolated from embryonic or adult tissues, including skin, but are also produced by genetic reprogramming of differentiated cells. Preclinical and clinical research has recently greatly improved stem cell therapy, making it a promising treatment option for various diseases in which current medical treatments fail to cure, prevent progression, or alleviate symptoms. So far, stem cells from different sources, mainly hematopoietic and mesenchymal, autologous or heterologous have been used for the treatment of the most severe forms of the disease each one of them with some beneficial effects. However, the mechanisms through which stem cells exert their beneficial role are still unknown or incompletely understood and most importantly further research is required to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these treatments. The transplantation of skin grafts to patients produced by gene-corrected autologous epidermal stem cells has been proved to be rather successful for the treatment of skin lesions in the long term in a limited number of patients. Nevertheless, these treatments do not address the internal epithelia-related complications manifested in patients with more severe forms.
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