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Lee T, Weinberg-Wolf H, Zapadka TE, Rudenko A, Demb JB, Kim IJ. Specific retinal neurons regulate context-dependent defensive responses to visual threat. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae423. [PMID: 39359403 PMCID: PMC11443969 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
While encountering a visual threat, an animal assesses multiple factors to choose an appropriate defensive strategy. For example, when a rodent detects a looming aerial predator, its behavioral response can be influenced by a specific environmental context, such as the availability of a shelter. Indeed, rodents typically escape from a looming stimulus when a shelter is present; otherwise, they typically freeze. Here we report that context-dependent behavioral responses can be initiated at the earliest stage of the visual system by distinct types of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the retina's output neurons. Using genetically defined cell ablation in mature mice, we discovered that some RGC types were necessary for either escaping (alpha RGCs) or freezing (intrinsically photosensitive RGCs) in response to a looming stimulus but not for both behaviors; whereas other RGC types were not required for either behavior (direction-selective RGCs preferring vertical motion). Altogether, our results suggest that specific RGC types regulate distinct behavioral responses elicited by the same threatening stimulus depending on contextual signals in the environment. These findings emphasize the unique contribution of early visual pathways to evolutionally conserved behavioral reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Hannah Weinberg-Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Thomas E Zapadka
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Andrii Rudenko
- Department of Biology, Graduate Programs in Biology and Biochemistry, City College and City University of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Jonathan B Demb
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - In-Jung Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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2
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Batabyal S, Kim S, Carlson M, Narcisse D, Tchedre K, Dibas A, Sharif NA, Mohanty S. Multi-Characteristic Opsin Therapy to Functionalize Retina, Attenuate Retinal Degeneration, and Restore Vision in Mouse Models of Retinitis Pigmentosa. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:25. [PMID: 39412768 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.10.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal degeneration 1 and 10 (rd1 and rd10) mice are useful animal models of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with rapidly and slowly progressive pathologies, respectively. Our study aims were to determine the effect of adeno-associated viral vector 2 (AAV2)-delivered multi-characteristic opsin (MCO-010; under the control of a metabotropic glutamate receptor-6 promoter enhancer) on the morphological and functional characteristics of vision in both rd1 and rd10 mice. Methods Various retinal measures of MCO-010 transduction and electrophysiological, behavioral, and other routine blood analyses were performed in the rd1 and/or rd10 mice after intravitreal injection of 1 µL of MCO-010 or AAV2 vehicle. Functional tests included electroretinogram, visually evoked potential, and behavior assay (optomotor and water maze). Retinal thickness, intraocular pressure, and plasma cytokine levels were also determined. Results Following intravitreal MCO-010 injection, approximately 80% of bipolar cells were transduced in the retina, and no alterations in retinal thickness were observed at 4 months post-injection. However, retinal thickness significantly decreased in control mice. MCO-010 treatment increased head movements and induced faster navigation of mice to the platform in a water-maze test. The MCO-010 gene therapy helped preserve visually evoked electrical response in the retina and visual cortex. No ocular toxicity, immunotoxicity, or phototoxicity was observed in the MCO-010-treated mice, even under chronic intense light conditions. Conclusions Intravitreal MCO-010 was well tolerated in rd1 and rd10 mice models of RP, and it appeared to attenuate retinal photoreceptor degeneration based on retinal structure and functional outcome measures. Translational Relevance As reported here, optogenetic treatment of the inner retina attenuates further retinal degeneration in addition to photosensitizing higher order neurons, and this disease-modifying aspect should be evaluated in optogenetic clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Adnan Dibas
- Nanoscope Technologies LLC, Bedford, TX, USA
| | | | - Samarendra Mohanty
- Nanoscope Technologies LLC, Bedford, TX, USA
- Nanoscope Therapeutics, Inc., Dallas, TX, USA
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3
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Lu Q, Wright A, Pan ZH. AAV dose-dependent transduction efficiency in retinal ganglion cells and functional efficacy of optogenetic vision restoration. Gene Ther 2024:10.1038/s41434-024-00485-7. [PMID: 39237697 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-024-00485-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Optogenetics is a promising approach for restoring vision to the blind after photoreceptor degeneration. The ability to restore vision through AAV-mediated delivery of light-sensitive proteins, especially channelrhodopsins, into retinal ganglion cells has been extensively demonstrated in animal models. For clinical application, knowledge of viral dose-dependent functional efficacy is desired. In this study, using a triple-knockout blind mouse model and a highly light-sensitive channelrhodopsin variant, we evaluated viral dose-dependent vision restoration through retinal ganglion cell expression by using optomotor behavioral assays. Our results show that both the restored light sensitivity and visual acuity reached peak levels at a medial viral dose of 108 vg. With increasing dose, transduction efficiency continued to increase while protein expression peaked at the dose of ~109 vg and declined at higher doses. Also, a significant increase in retinal gliosis and inflammatory responses started at the dose of ~109 vg, and a marked increase was observed at the dose of ~1010. These results provide valuable insights into viral dose design for clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Anna Wright
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Zhuo-Hua Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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Ganzen L, Yadav SC, Wei M, Ma H, Nawy S, Kramer RH. Retinoic Acid-Dependent Loss of Synaptic Output from Bipolar Cells Impairs Visual Information Processing in Inherited Retinal Degeneration. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0129242024. [PMID: 39060177 PMCID: PMC11358532 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0129-24.2024] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In retinitis pigmentosa (RP), rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate, depriving downstream neurons of light-sensitive input, leading to vision impairment or blindness. Although downstream neurons survive, some undergo morphological and physiological remodeling. Bipolar cells (BCs) link photoreceptors, which sense light, to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which send information to the brain. While photoreceptor loss disrupts input synapses to BCs, whether BC output synapses remodel has remained unknown. Here we report that synaptic output from BCs plummets in RP mouse models of both sexes owing to loss of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Remodeling reduces the reliability of synaptic output to repeated optogenetic stimuli, causing RGC firing to fail at high-stimulus frequencies. Fortunately, functional remodeling of BCs can be reversed by inhibiting the retinoic acid receptor (RAR). RAR inhibitors targeted to BCs present a new therapeutic opportunity for mitigating detrimental effects of remodeling on signals initiated either by surviving photoreceptors or by vision-restoring tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Ganzen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Shubhash Chandra Yadav
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Mingxiao Wei
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Scott Nawy
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
| | - Richard H Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720
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5
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Huet A, Mager T, Gossler C, Moser T. Toward Optogenetic Hearing Restoration. Annu Rev Neurosci 2024; 47:103-121. [PMID: 38594945 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-070623-103247] [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: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The cochlear implant (CI) is considered the most successful neuroprosthesis as it enables speech comprehension in the majority of the million otherwise deaf patients. In hearing by electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve, the broad spread of current from each electrode acts as a bottleneck that limits the transfer of sound frequency information. Hence, there remains a major unmet medical need for improving the quality of hearing with CIs. Recently, optogenetic stimulation of the cochlea has been suggested as an alternative approach for hearing restoration. Cochlear optogenetics promises to transfer more sound frequency information, hence improving hearing, as light can conveniently be confined in space to activate the auditory nerve within smaller tonotopic ranges. In this review, we discuss the latest experimental and technological developments of optogenetic hearing restoration and outline remaining challenges en route to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Huet
- Current affiliation: Institute for Neuroscience Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Montpellier, France
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Mager
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Advanced Optogenes Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Christian Gossler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
- Optics Modules Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
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Busskamp V, Roska B, Sahel JA. Optogenetic Vision Restoration. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041660. [PMID: 37734866 PMCID: PMC11293536 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics has emerged over the past 20 years as a powerful tool to investigate the various circuits underlying numerous functions, especially in neuroscience. The ability to control by light the activity of neurons has enabled the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring some level of vision in blinding retinal conditions. Promising preclinical and initial clinical data support such expectations. Numerous challenges remain to be tackled (e.g., confirmation of safety, cell and circuit specificity, patterns, intensity and mode of stimulation, rehabilitation programs) on the path toward useful vision restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Busskamp
- Degenerative Retinal Diseases, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Botond Roska
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jose-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, UPMC Vision Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire FOReSIGHT, Sorbonne Universite, Inserm, Quinze-Vingts Hopital de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
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Kulbay M, Tuli N, Akdag A, Kahn Ali S, Qian CX. Optogenetics and Targeted Gene Therapy for Retinal Diseases: Unravelling the Fundamentals, Applications, and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4224. [PMID: 39064263 PMCID: PMC11277578 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13144224] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
With a common aim of restoring physiological function of defective cells, optogenetics and targeted gene therapies have shown great clinical potential and novelty in the branch of personalized medicine and inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). The basis of optogenetics aims to bypass defective photoreceptors by introducing opsins with light-sensing capabilities. In contrast, targeted gene therapies, such as methods based on CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference with noncoding RNAs (i.e., microRNA, small interfering RNA, short hairpin RNA), consists of inducing normal gene or protein expression into affected cells. Having partially leveraged the challenges limiting their prompt introduction into the clinical practice (i.e., engineering, cell or tissue delivery capabilities), it is crucial to deepen the fields of knowledge applied to optogenetics and targeted gene therapy. The aim of this in-depth and novel literature review is to explain the fundamentals and applications of optogenetics and targeted gene therapies, while providing decision-making arguments for ophthalmologists. First, we review the biomolecular principles and engineering steps involved in optogenetics and the targeted gene therapies mentioned above by bringing a focus on the specific vectors and molecules for cell signalization. The importance of vector choice and engineering methods are discussed. Second, we summarize the ongoing clinical trials and most recent discoveries for optogenetics and targeted gene therapies for IRDs. Finally, we then discuss the limits and current challenges of each novel therapy. We aim to provide for the first time scientific-based explanations for clinicians to justify the specificity of each therapy for one disease, which can help improve clinical decision-making tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Kulbay
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3S5, Canada;
| | - Nicolas Tuli
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada (A.A.)
| | - Arjin Akdag
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada (A.A.)
| | - Shigufa Kahn Ali
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada;
| | - Cynthia X. Qian
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Universitaire d’Ophtalmologie (CUO), Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
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8
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Borchert GA, Shamsnajafabadi H, Ng BWJ, Xue K, De Silva SR, Downes SM, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. Age-related macular degeneration: suitability of optogenetic therapy for geographic atrophy. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1415575. [PMID: 39010943 PMCID: PMC11246919 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1415575] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a growing public health concern given the aging population and it is the leading cause of blindness in developed countries, affecting individuals over the age of 55 years. AMD affects the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane in the macula, leading to secondary photoreceptor degeneration and eventual loss of central vision. Late AMD is divided into two forms: neovascular AMD and geographic atrophy (GA). GA accounts for around 60% of late AMD and has been the most challenging subtype to treat. Recent advances include approval of new intravitreally administered therapeutics, pegcetacoplan (Syfovre) and avacincaptad pegol (Iveric Bio), which target complement factors C3 and C5, respectively, which slow down the rate of enlargement of the area of atrophy. However, there is currently no treatment to reverse the central vision loss associated with GA. Optogenetics may provide a strategy for rescuing visual function in GA by imparting light-sensitivity to the surviving inner retina (i.e., retinal ganglion cells or bipolar cells). It takes advantage of residual inner retinal architecture to transmit visual stimuli along the visual pathway, while a wide range of photosensitive proteins are available for consideration. Herein, we review the anatomical changes in GA, discuss the suitability of optogenetic therapeutic sensors in different target cells in pre-clinical models, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of different routes of administration of therapeutic vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace A. Borchert
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin W. J. Ng
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha R. De Silva
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Susan M. Downes
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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9
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Mohanty S, Batabyal S, Ayyagari A, Sharif NA. Safety of intravitreally delivered AAV2 vector-mediated multi-characteristic opsin genetic construct in wild type beagle dogs. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3720. [PMID: 39041639 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3720] [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: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A novel adeno-associated virus 2 (AAV2)-carried multi-characteristic opsin (MCO) (MCO-010) is undergoing several clinical trials as a novel therapeutic modality for the treatment of degenerative retinal diseases including retinitis pigmentosa and Stargardt disease. The present study aimed to determine the ocular and systemic safety of MCO-010 and the AAV2 vehicle in adult Beagle dogs following intravitreal (IVT) injection. METHODS The current safety/toxicology studies spanning 13 weeks described here utilized well-documented techniques to assess the effects of IVT injection of MCO-010 up to 2.2 × 1011 genome copies (gc) per eye, or the AAV2 capsid (vehicle control) on gross behavioral and immunogenic changes, alterations in body weights, blood biochemistry, hematology, blood coagulation, gross necropsy lesions, organ weight changes and histopathology in the dogs (n = 4 per group; two males and two females per group). Immunohistochemical and functional electroretinogram studies were also conducted to determine MCO expression in the retina and determine any retinal toxicity associated with MCO-010. RESULTS There were no significant deleterious effects of the MCO-010 (or the AAV2 at the tested doses) on any of the examined parameters, including the absence of any severe ocular or systemic adverse events. However, as expected, inflammation after IVT delivery of AAV2 and MCO-010 was observed in the conjunctivae of all groups of animals, although this self-resolved within 1 week post-injection. Quantitative immunohistochemical analyses of MCO-010-associated mCherry revealed successful delivery of the gene therapy within the inner retina. CONCLUSIONS In summary, MCO-010 demonstrated a favorable safety profile when administered to the eyes of adult Beagle dogs of both sexes at dose levels up to 2.2 × 1011 gc per eye, with no adverse effects observed. This dose was identified as the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (i.e. NOAEL) and guided selection of safe doses for human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samarendra Mohanty
- Nanoscope Technologies LLC, Bedford, TX, USA
- Nanoscope Therapeutics Inc., Dallas, TX, USA
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10
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Zhou S, Niu Y, Li X, Yue J, Zhang H. The knowledge structure and research trends between light and myopia: A bibliometric analysis from 1981 to 2024. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38157. [PMID: 38758893 PMCID: PMC11098238 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This bibliometric analysis explored the knowledge structure of and research trends in the relationship between light and myopia. METHODS Relevant literature published from 1981 to 2024 was collected from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Visual maps were generated using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. We analyzed the included studies in terms of the annual publication count, countries, institutional affiliations, prolific authors, source journals, top 10 most cited articles, keyword co-occurrence, and cocitations. RESULTS A total of 525 papers examining the relationship between light and myopia published between 1981 and 2024 were collected. The United States ranked first in terms of the number of publications and actively engaged in international cooperation with other countries. The New England College of Optometry, which is located in the United States, was the most active institution and ranked first in terms of the number of publications. Schaeffel Frank was the most prolific author. The most active journal in the field was Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. The most frequently cited paper in the included studies was written by Saw, SM and was published in 2002. The most common keywords in basic research included "refractive error," "longitudinal chromatic aberration," and "compensation." The most common keywords in clinical research mainly included "light exposure," "school," and "outdoor activity." The current research hotspots in this field are "progression," "refractive development," and "light exposure." The cocitation analysis generated 17 clusters. CONCLUSION This study is the first to use bibliometric methods to analyze existing research on the relationship between light and myopia. In recent years, the intensity and wavelength of light have become research hotspots in the field. Further research on light of different intensities and wavelengths may provide new perspectives in the future for designing more effective treatments and interventions to reduce the incidence of myopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibing Zhou
- Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Henan Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yueyue Niu
- Henan University People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xuejiao Li
- Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Henan Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanmenxia Central Hospital, Sanmenxia, China
| | - Juan Yue
- Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Henan Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongmin Zhang
- Zhengzhou University People’s Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Henan Key Laboratory for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan University People’s Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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11
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Vlasova AD, Bukhalovich SM, Bagaeva DF, Polyakova AP, Ilyinsky NS, Nesterov SV, Tsybrov FM, Bogorodskiy AO, Zinovev EV, Mikhailov AE, Vlasov AV, Kuklin AI, Borshchevskiy VI, Bamberg E, Uversky VN, Gordeliy VI. Intracellular microbial rhodopsin-based optogenetics to control metabolism and cell signaling. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:3327-3349. [PMID: 38391026 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00699a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Microbial rhodopsin (MRs) ion channels and pumps have become invaluable optogenetic tools for neuroscience as well as biomedical applications. Recently, MR-optogenetics expanded towards subcellular organelles opening principally new opportunities in optogenetic control of intracellular metabolism and signaling via precise manipulations of organelle ion gradients using light. This new optogenetic field expands the opportunities for basic and medical studies of cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders, providing more detailed and accurate control of cell physiology. This review summarizes recent advances in studies of the cellular metabolic processes and signaling mediated by optogenetic tools targeting mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), lysosomes, and synaptic vesicles. Finally, we discuss perspectives of such an optogenetic approach in both fundamental and applied research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia D Vlasova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Siarhei M Bukhalovich
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Diana F Bagaeva
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Aleksandra P Polyakova
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Nikolay S Ilyinsky
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Semen V Nesterov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Fedor M Tsybrov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Andrey O Bogorodskiy
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Egor V Zinovev
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Anatolii E Mikhailov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Alexey V Vlasov
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna, Russia
| | - Alexander I Kuklin
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna, Russia
| | - Valentin I Borshchevskiy
- Research Center for Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Age-Related Diseases, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna, Russia
| | - Ernst Bamberg
- Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Valentin I Gordeliy
- Institut de Biologie Structurale Jean-Pierre Ebel, Université Grenoble Alpes-Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives-CNRS, 38027 Grenoble, France.
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12
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Krut' VG, Kalinichenko AL, Maltsev DI, Jappy D, Shevchenko EK, Podgorny OV, Belousov VV. Optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches for modeling neurological disorders in vivo. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 235:102600. [PMID: 38548126 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2024.102600] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Animal models of human neurological disorders provide valuable experimental tools which enable us to study various aspects of disorder pathogeneses, ranging from structural abnormalities and disrupted metabolism and signaling to motor and mental deficits, and allow us to test novel therapies in preclinical studies. To be valid, these animal models should recapitulate complex pathological features at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and behavioral levels as closely as possible to those observed in human subjects. Pathological states resembling known human neurological disorders can be induced in animal species by toxins, genetic factors, lesioning, or exposure to extreme conditions. In recent years, novel animal models recapitulating neuropathologies in humans have been introduced. These animal models are based on synthetic biology approaches: opto- and chemogenetics. In this paper, we review recent opto- and chemogenetics-based animal models of human neurological disorders. These models allow for the creation of pathological states by disrupting specific processes at the cellular level. The artificial pathological states mimic a range of human neurological disorders, such as aging-related dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, epilepsy, and ataxias. Opto- and chemogenetics provide new opportunities unavailable with other animal models of human neurological disorders. These techniques enable researchers to induce neuropathological states varying in severity and ranging from acute to chronic. We also discuss future directions for the development and application of synthetic biology approaches for modeling neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriya G Krut'
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Andrei L Kalinichenko
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Dmitry I Maltsev
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - David Jappy
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Evgeny K Shevchenko
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Oleg V Podgorny
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Vsevolod V Belousov
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia; Life Improvement by Future Technologies (LIFT) Center, Skolkovo, Moscow 143025, Russia.
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13
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Hsiang JC, Shen N, Soto F, Kerschensteiner D. Distributed feature representations of natural stimuli across parallel retinal pathways. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1920. [PMID: 38429280 PMCID: PMC10907388 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46348-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
How sensory systems extract salient features from natural environments and organize them across neural pathways is unclear. Combining single-cell and population two-photon calcium imaging in mice, we discover that retinal ON bipolar cells (second-order neurons of the visual system) are divided into two blocks of four types. The two blocks distribute temporal and spatial information encoding, respectively. ON bipolar cell axons co-stratify within each block, but separate laminarly between them (upper block: diverse temporal, uniform spatial tuning; lower block: diverse spatial, uniform temporal tuning). ON bipolar cells extract temporal and spatial features similarly from artificial and naturalistic stimuli. In addition, they differ in sensitivity to coherent motion in naturalistic movies. Motion information is distributed across ON bipolar cells in the upper and the lower blocks, multiplexed with temporal and spatial contrast, independent features of natural scenes. Comparing the responses of different boutons within the same arbor, we find that axons of all ON bipolar cell types function as computational units. Thus, our results provide insights into the visual feature extraction from naturalistic stimuli and reveal how structural and functional organization cooperate to generate parallel ON pathways for temporal and spatial information in the mammalian retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Chun Hsiang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ning Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Florentina Soto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Daniel Kerschensteiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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14
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Whalen M, Akula M, McNamee SM, DeAngelis MM, Haider NB. Seeing the Future: A Review of Ocular Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:179. [PMID: 38391665 PMCID: PMC10886198 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020179] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular diseases present a unique challenge and opportunity for therapeutic development. The eye has distinct advantages as a therapy target given its accessibility, compartmentalization, immune privilege, and size. Various methodologies for therapeutic delivery in ocular diseases are under investigation that impact long-term efficacy, toxicity, invasiveness, and delivery range. While gene, cell, and antibody therapy and nanoparticle delivery directly treat regions that have been damaged by disease, they can be limited in the duration of the therapeutic delivery and have a focal effect. In contrast, contact lenses and ocular implants can more effectively achieve sustained and widespread delivery of therapies; however, they can increase dilution of therapeutics, which may result in reduced effectiveness. Current therapies either offer a sustained release or a broad therapeutic effect, and future directions should aim toward achieving both. This review discusses current ocular therapy delivery systems and their applications, mechanisms for delivering therapeutic products to ocular tissues, advantages and challenges associated with each delivery system, current approved therapies, and clinical trials. Future directions for the improvement in existing ocular therapies include combination therapies, such as combined cell and gene therapies, as well as AI-driven devices, such as cortical implants that directly transmit visual information to the cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiya Whalen
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
| | | | | | - Margaret M DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Neena B Haider
- Shifa Precision, Boston, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA
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15
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Altahini S, Arnoux I, Stroh A. Optogenetics 2.0: challenges and solutions towards a quantitative probing of neural circuits. Biol Chem 2024; 405:43-54. [PMID: 37650383 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0194] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
To exploit the full potential of optogenetics, we need to titrate and tailor optogenetic methods to emulate naturalistic circuit function. For that, the following prerequisites need to be met: first, we need to target opsin expression not only to genetically defined neurons per se, but to specifically target a functional node. Second, we need to assess the scope of optogenetic modulation, i.e. the fraction of optogenetically modulated neurons. Third, we need to integrate optogenetic control in a closed loop setting. Fourth, we need to further safe and stable gene expression and light delivery to bring optogenetics to the clinics. Here, we review these concepts for the human and rodent brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh Altahini
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research, D-55122 Mainz, Germany
| | - Isabelle Arnoux
- Cerebral Physiopathology Laboratory, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, College de France, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, Université PSL, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Albrecht Stroh
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research, D-55122 Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Pathophysiology, University Medical Center Mainz, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
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16
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Stürmer S, Bolz S, Zrenner E, Ueffing M, Haq W. Sustained Extracellular Electrical Stimulation Modulates the Permeability of Gap Junctions in rd1 Mouse Retina with Photoreceptor Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1616. [PMID: 38338908 PMCID: PMC10855676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031616] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurons build vast gap junction-coupled networks (GJ-nets) that are permeable to ions or small molecules, enabling lateral signaling. Herein, we investigate (1) the effect of blinding diseases on GJ-nets in mouse retinas and (2) the impact of electrical stimulation on GJ permeability. GJ permeability was traced in the acute retinal explants of blind retinal degeneration 1 (rd1) mice using the GJ tracer neurobiotin. The tracer was introduced via the edge cut method into the GJ-net, and its spread was visualized in histological preparations (fluorescent tagged) using microscopy. Sustained stimulation was applied to modulate GJ permeability using a single large electrode. Our findings are: (1) The blind rd1 retinas displayed extensive intercellular coupling via open GJs. Three GJ-nets were identified: horizontal, amacrine, and ganglion cell networks. (2) Sustained stimulation significantly diminished the tracer spread through the GJs in all the cell layers, as occurs with pharmaceutical inhibition with carbenoxolone. We concluded that the GJ-nets of rd1 retinas remain coupled and functional after blinding disease and that their permeability is regulatable by sustained stimulation. These findings are essential for understanding molecular signaling in diseases over coupled networks and therapeutic approaches using electrical implants, such as eliciting visual sensations or suppressing cortical seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Wadood Haq
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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17
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Khabou H, Orendorff E, Trapani F, Rucli M, Desrosiers M, Yger P, Dalkara D, Marre O. Optogenetic targeting of AII amacrine cells restores retinal computations performed by the inner retina. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 31:101107. [PMID: 37868206 PMCID: PMC10589896 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Most inherited retinal dystrophies display progressive photoreceptor cell degeneration leading to severe visual impairment. Optogenetic reactivation of inner retinal neurons is a promising avenue to restore vision in retinas having lost their photoreceptors. Expression of optogenetic proteins in surviving ganglion cells, the retinal output, allows them to take on the lost photoreceptive function. Nonetheless, this creates an exclusively ON retina by expression of depolarizing optogenetic proteins in all classes of ganglion cells, whereas a normal retina extracts several features from the visual scene, with different ganglion cells detecting light increase (ON) and light decrease (OFF). Refinement of this therapeutic strategy should thus aim at restoring these computations. Here we used a vector that targets gene expression to a specific interneuron of the retina called the AII amacrine cell. AII amacrine cells simultaneously activate the ON pathway and inhibit the OFF pathway. We show that the optogenetic stimulation of AII amacrine cells allows restoration of both ON and OFF responses in the retina, but also mediates other types of retinal processing such as sustained and transient responses. Targeting amacrine cells with optogenetics is thus a promising avenue to restore better retinal function and visual perception in patients suffering from retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanen Khabou
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Elaine Orendorff
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Francesco Trapani
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Marco Rucli
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Melissa Desrosiers
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Yger
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Marre
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, 75012 Paris, France
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18
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Kellish PC, Marsic D, Crosson SM, Choudhury S, Scalabrino ML, Strang CE, Hill J, McCullough KT, Peterson JJ, Fajardo D, Gupte S, Makal V, Kondratov O, Kondratova L, Iyer S, Witherspoon CD, Gamlin PD, Zolotukhin S, Boye SL, Boye SE. Intravitreal injection of a rationally designed AAV capsid library in non-human primate identifies variants with enhanced retinal transduction and neutralizing antibody evasion. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3441-3456. [PMID: 37814449 PMCID: PMC10727955 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) continues to be the gold standard vector for therapeutic gene delivery and has proven especially useful for treating ocular disease. Intravitreal injection (IVtI) is a promising delivery route because it increases accessibility of gene therapies to larger patient populations. However, data from clinical and non-human primate (NHP) studies utilizing currently available capsids indicate that anatomical barriers to AAV and pre-existing neutralizing antibodies can restrict gene expression to levels that are "sub-therapeutic" in a substantial proportion of patients. Here, we performed a combination of directed evolution in NHPs of an AAV2-based capsid library with simultaneous mutations across six surface-exposed variable regions and rational design to identify novel capsid variants with improved retinal transduction following IVtI. Following two rounds of screening in NHP, enriched variants were characterized in intravitreally injected mice and NHPs and shown to have increased transduction relative to AAV2. Lead capsid variant, P2-V1, demonstrated an increased ability to evade neutralizing antibodies in human vitreous samples relative to AAV2 and AAV2.7m8. Taken together, this study further contributed to our understanding of the selective pressures associated with retinal transduction via the vitreous and identified promising novel AAV capsid variants for clinical consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick C Kellish
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Damien Marsic
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Sean M Crosson
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Shreyasi Choudhury
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Miranda L Scalabrino
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Christianne E Strang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL 35294, USA
| | - Julie Hill
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL 35294, USA
| | - K Tyler McCullough
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - James J Peterson
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Diego Fajardo
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Siddhant Gupte
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Victoria Makal
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Oleksandr Kondratov
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Liudmyla Kondratova
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Siva Iyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - C Douglas Witherspoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL 35294, USA
| | - Paul D Gamlin
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham AL 35294, USA
| | - Sergei Zolotukhin
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Sanford L Boye
- Powell Gene Therapy Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Shannon E Boye
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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19
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Rodgers J, Wright P, Ballister ER, Hughes RB, Storchi R, Wynne J, Martial FP, Lucas RJ. Modulating signalling lifetime to optimise a prototypical animal opsin for optogenetic applications. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:1387-1407. [PMID: 38036775 PMCID: PMC10730688 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02879-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Animal opsins are light activated G-protein-coupled receptors, capable of optogenetic control of G-protein signalling for research or therapeutic applications. Animal opsins offer excellent photosensitivity, but their temporal resolution can be limited by long photoresponse duration when expressed outside their native cellular environment. Here, we explore methods for addressing this limitation for a prototypical animal opsin (human rod opsin) in HEK293T cells. We find that the application of the canonical rhodopsin kinase (GRK1)/visual arrestin signal termination mechanism to this problem is complicated by a generalised suppressive effect of GRK1 expression. This attenuation can be overcome using phosphorylation-independent mutants of arrestin, especially when these are tethered to the opsin protein. We further show that point mutations targeting the Schiff base stability of the opsin can also reduce signalling lifetime. Finally, we apply one such mutation (E122Q) to improve the temporal fidelity of restored visual responses following ectopic opsin expression in the inner retina of a mouse model of retinal degeneration (rd1). Our results reveal that these two strategies (targeting either arrestin binding or Schiff-base hydrolysis) can produce more time-delimited opsin signalling under heterologous expression and establish the potential of this approach to improve optogenetic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Rodgers
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
| | - Phillip Wright
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Edward R Ballister
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, 10032, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca B Hughes
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Riccardo Storchi
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jonathan Wynne
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Franck P Martial
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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20
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Lee H, Weinberg-Wolf H, Lee HL, Lee T, Conte J, Godoy-Parejo C, Demb JB, Rudenko A, Kim IJ. Brn3b regulates the formation of fear-related midbrain circuits and defensive responses to visual threat. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002386. [PMID: 37983249 PMCID: PMC10695396 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002386] [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] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Defensive responses to visually threatening stimuli represent an essential fear-related survival instinct, widely detected across species. The neural circuitry mediating visually triggered defensive responses has been delineated in the midbrain. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating the development and function of these circuits remain unresolved. Here, we show that midbrain-specific deletion of the transcription factor Brn3b causes a loss of neurons projecting to the lateral posterior nucleus of the thalamus. Brn3b deletion also down-regulates the expression of the neuropeptide tachykinin 2 (Tac2). Furthermore, Brn3b mutant mice display impaired defensive freezing responses to visual threat precipitated by social isolation. This behavioral phenotype could be ameliorated by overexpressing Tac2, suggesting that Tac2 acts downstream of Brn3b in regulating defensive responses to threat. Together, our experiments identify specific genetic components critical for the functional organization of midbrain fear-related visual circuits. Similar mechanisms may contribute to the development and function of additional long-range brain circuits underlying fear-associated behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyoseo Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Hannah Weinberg-Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Hae-Lim Lee
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Tracy Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Joseph Conte
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Carlos Godoy-Parejo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Jonathan B. Demb
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Andrii Rudenko
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, New York, New York, United States of America
- Graduate Programs in Biology and Biochemistry, City University of New York, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - In-Jung Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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21
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Katada Y, Yoshida K, Serizawa N, Lee D, Kobayashi K, Negishi K, Okano H, Kandori H, Tsubota K, Kurihara T. Highly sensitive visual restoration and protection via ectopic expression of chimeric rhodopsin in mice. iScience 2023; 26:107716. [PMID: 37720108 PMCID: PMC10504486 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoreception requires amplification by mammalian rhodopsin through G protein activation, which requires a visual cycle. To achieve this in retinal gene therapy, we incorporated human rhodopsin cytoplasmic loops into Gloeobacter rhodopsin, thereby generating Gloeobacter and human chimeric rhodopsin (GHCR). In a murine model of inherited retinal degeneration, we induced retinal GHCR expression by intravitreal injection of a recombinant adeno-associated virus vector. Retinal explant and visual thalamus electrophysiological recordings, behavioral tests, and histological analysis showed that GHCR restored dim-environment vision and prevented the progression of retinal degeneration. Thus, GHCR may be a potent clinical tool for the treatment of retinal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusaku Katada
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuho Yoshida
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Nagoya, Aichi 466-0061, Japan
| | - Naho Serizawa
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Toyo University, Kita-ku, Tokyo 115-8650, Japan
| | - Deokho Lee
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hideki Kandori
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Nagoya, Aichi 466-0061, Japan
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Tsubota Laboratory, Inc., Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0016, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kurihara
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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22
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Kerschensteiner D. Losing, preserving, and restoring vision from neurodegeneration in the eye. Curr Biol 2023; 33:R1019-R1036. [PMID: 37816323 PMCID: PMC10575673 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.044] [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: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
The retina is a part of the brain that sits at the back of the eye, looking out onto the world. The first neurons of the retina are the rod and cone photoreceptors, which convert changes in photon flux into electrical signals that are the basis of vision. Rods and cones are frequent targets of heritable neurodegenerative diseases that cause visual impairment, including blindness, in millions of people worldwide. This review summarizes the diverse genetic causes of inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) and their convergence onto common pathogenic mechanisms of vision loss. Currently, there are few effective treatments for IRDs, but recent advances in disparate areas of biology and technology (e.g., genome editing, viral engineering, 3D organoids, optogenetics, semiconductor arrays) discussed here enable promising efforts to preserve and restore vision in IRD patients with implications for neurodegeneration in less approachable brain areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kerschensteiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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23
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Kramer RH. Suppressing Retinal Remodeling to Mitigate Vision Loss in Photoreceptor Degenerative Disorders. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2023; 9:131-153. [PMID: 37713276 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-112122-020957] [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: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, robbing the visual system of light-triggered signals necessary for sight. However, changes in the retina do not stop with the photoreceptors. A stereotypical set of morphological and physiological changes, known as remodeling, occur in downstream retinal neurons. Some aspects of remodeling are homeostatic, with structural or functional changes compensating for partial loss of visual inputs. However, other aspects are nonhomeostatic, corrupting retinal information processing to obscure vision mediated naturally by surviving photoreceptors or artificially by vision-restoration technologies. In this review, I consider the mechanism of remodeling and its consequences for residual and restored visual function; discuss the role of retinoic acid, a critical molecular trigger of detrimental remodeling; and discuss strategies for suppressing retinoic acid biosynthesis or signaling as therapeutic possibilities for mitigating vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard H Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, USA;
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24
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Katada Y, Kunimi H, Serizawa N, Lee D, Kobayashi K, Negishi K, Okano H, Tanaka KF, Tsubota K, Kurihara T. Starburst amacrine cells amplify optogenetic visual restoration through gap junctions. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:1-13. [PMID: 37324975 PMCID: PMC10265492 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ectopic induction of optogenetic actuators, such as channelrhodopsin, is a promising approach to restoring vision in the degenerating retina. However, the cell type-specific response of ectopic photoreception has not been well understood. There are limits to obtaining efficient gene expression in a specifically targeted cell population by a transgenic approach. In the present study, we established a murine model with high efficiency of gene induction to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and amacrine cells using an improved tetracycline transactivator-operator bipartite system (KENGE-tet system). To investigate the cell type-specific visual restorative effect, we expressed the channelrhodopsin gene into RGCs and amacrine cells using the KENGE-tet system. As a result, enhancement in the visual restorative effect was observed to RGCs and starburst amacrine cells. In conclusion, a photoresponse from amacrine cells may enhance the maintained response of RGCs and further increase or improve the visual restorative effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusaku Katada
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Kunimi
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Naho Serizawa
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Toyo University, Kita-ku, Tokyo 115-8650, Japan
| | - Deokho Lee
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kenji F. Tanaka
- Division of Brain Sciences, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Tsubota Laboratory, Inc, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0016, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kurihara
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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25
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Parnami K, Bhattacharyya A. Current approaches to vision restoration using optogenetic therapy. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1236826. [PMID: 37663125 PMCID: PMC10469018 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1236826] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited progressive degeneration of photoreceptors such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common cause of blindness leading to severe vision impairment affecting ~1 in 5,000 people worldwide. Although the function and morphology of the photoreceptors get disrupted, there is evidence that the inner retinal neurons such as bipolar cells and the retinal ganglion cells are left intact until later stages. Among several innovative therapeutic options aiming to restore vision, optogenetic therapy can bestow light sensitivity to remaining retinal neurons by ectopic expression of light-sensitive proteins. Since the advent of this technique, a diverse class of opsins (microbial and mammalian opsins), chimeric proteins, ligand-gated ion channels, and switchable opsins have been used to study their potential in vision restoration. These proteins differ in their excitation spectra, response kinetics, and signal amplification cascade. Although most of the studies have reported high fidelity of responses in the retina, only a handful of them have achieved functional vision in the visual cortex. This review is a summary of the visuocortical and behavioral responses after optogenetic treatment of the degenerated retina. This clarifies to what extent improved and meaningful vision can be obtained for therapeutic efficacy and continued clinical progress.
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26
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Wu KY, Mina M, Sahyoun JY, Kalevar A, Tran SD. Retinal Prostheses: Engineering and Clinical Perspectives for Vision Restoration. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:5782. [PMID: 37447632 PMCID: PMC10347280 DOI: 10.3390/s23135782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
A retinal prosthesis, also known as a bionic eye, is a device that can be implanted to partially restore vision in patients with retinal diseases that have resulted in the loss of photoreceptors (e.g., age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa). Recently, there have been major breakthroughs in retinal prosthesis technology, with the creation of numerous types of implants, including epiretinal, subretinal, and suprachoroidal sensors. These devices can stimulate the remaining cells in the retina with electric signals to create a visual sensation. A literature review of the pre-clinical and clinical studies published between 2017 and 2023 is conducted. This narrative review delves into the retinal anatomy, physiology, pathology, and principles underlying electronic retinal prostheses. Engineering aspects are explored, including electrode-retina alignment, electrode size and material, charge density, resolution limits, spatial selectivity, and bidirectional closed-loop systems. This article also discusses clinical aspects, focusing on safety, adverse events, visual function, outcomes, and the importance of rehabilitation programs. Moreover, there is ongoing debate over whether implantable retinal devices still offer a promising approach for the treatment of retinal diseases, considering the recent emergence of cell-based and gene-based therapies as well as optogenetics. This review compares retinal prostheses with these alternative therapies, providing a balanced perspective on their advantages and limitations. The recent advancements in retinal prosthesis technology are also outlined, emphasizing progress in engineering and the outlook of retinal prostheses. While acknowledging the challenges and complexities of the technology, this article highlights the significant potential of retinal prostheses for vision restoration in individuals with retinal diseases and calls for continued research and development to refine and enhance their performance, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Mina Mina
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Jean-Yves Sahyoun
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Ananda Kalevar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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Yan B, Viswanathan S, Brodie SE, Deng WT, Coleman KE, Hauswirth WW, Nirenberg S. A clinically viable approach to restoring visual function using optogenetic gene therapy. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 29:406-417. [PMID: 37251979 PMCID: PMC10213293 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic gene therapies offer a promising strategy for restoring vision to patients with retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Several clinical trials have begun in this area using different vectors and optogenetic proteins (Clinical Identifiers: NCT02556736, NCT03326336, NCT04945772, and NCT04278131). Here we present preclinical efficacy and safety data for the NCT04278131 trial, which uses an AAV2 vector and Chronos as the optogenetic protein. Efficacy was assessed in mice in a dose-dependent manner using electroretinograms (ERGs). Safety was assessed in rats, nonhuman primates, and mice, using several tests, including immunohistochemical analyses and cell counts (rats), electroretinograms (nonhuman primates), and ocular toxicology assays (mice). The results showed that Chronos-expressing vectors were efficacious over a broad range of vector doses and stimulating light intensities, and were well tolerated: no test article-related findings were observed in the anatomical and electrophysiological assays performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyuan Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Suresh Viswanathan
- Department of Biological and Vision Sciences, College of Optometry, State University of New York, New York, NY 10036, USA
| | - Scott E. Brodie
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Kirsten E. Coleman
- Powel Gene Therapy Center Toxicology Core, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - William W. Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sheila Nirenberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
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28
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Hososhima S, Ueno S, Okado S, Inoue KI, Konno M, Yamauchi Y, Inoue K, Terasaki H, Kandori H, Tsunoda SP. A light-gated cation channel with high reactivity to weak light. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7625. [PMID: 37165048 PMCID: PMC10172181 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34687-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cryptophyte algae, Guillardia theta, possesses 46 genes that are homologous to microbial rhodopsins. Five of them are functionally light-gated cation channelrhodopsins (GtCCR1-5) that are phylogenetically distinct from chlorophyte channelrhodopsins (ChRs) such as ChR2 from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. In this study, we report the ion channel properties of these five CCRs and compared them with ChR2 and other ChRs widely used in optogenetics. We revealed that light sensitivity varied among GtCCR1-5, in which GtCCR1-3 exhibited an apparent EC50 of 0.21-1.16 mW/mm2, similar to that of ChR2, whereas GtCCR4 and GtCCR5 possess two EC50s, one of which is significantly small (0.025 and 0.032 mW/mm2). GtCCR4 is able to trigger action potentials in high temporal resolution, similar to ChR2, but requires lower light power, when expressed in cortical neurons. Moreover, a high light-sensitive response was observed when GtCCR4 was introduced into blind retina ganglion cells of rd1, a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Thus, GtCCR4 provides optogenetic neuronal activation with high light sensitivity and temporal precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoko Hososhima
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
- OptoBioTechnology Research Center, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
| | - Shinji Ueno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori, 036-8562, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Inoue
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-8506, Japan
| | - Masae Konno
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
- OptoBioTechnology Research Center, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
- The Institute for Solid State Physics, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8581, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan
| | - Yumeka Yamauchi
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
| | - Keiichi Inoue
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
- OptoBioTechnology Research Center, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan
- The Institute for Solid State Physics, The University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, Chiba, 277-8581, Japan
| | - Hiroko Terasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hideki Kandori
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan.
- OptoBioTechnology Research Center, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan.
| | - Satoshi P Tsunoda
- Department of Life Science and Applied Chemistry, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan.
- OptoBioTechnology Research Center, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8555, Japan.
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29
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Yan B, Nirenberg S. An Engineering Platform for Clinical Application of Optogenetic Therapy in Retinal Degenerative Diseases. IEEE JOURNAL OF TRANSLATIONAL ENGINEERING IN HEALTH AND MEDICINE 2023; 11:296-305. [PMID: 37250684 PMCID: PMC10217532 DOI: 10.1109/jtehm.2023.3275103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics is a new approach for controlling neural circuits with numerous applications in both basic and clinical science. In retinal degenerative diseases, the photoreceptors die, but inner retinal cells remain largely intact. By expressing light sensitive proteins in the remaining cells, optogenetics has the potential to offer a novel approach to restoring vision. In the past several years, optogenetics has advanced into an early clinical stage, and promising results have been reported. At the current stage, there is an urgent need to develop hardware and software for clinical training, testing, and rehabilitation in optogenetic therapy, which is beyond the capability of existing ophthalmic equipment. In this paper, we present an engineering platform consisting of hardware and software utilities, which allow clinicians to interactively work with patients to explore and assess their vision in optogenetic treatment, providing the basis for prosthetic design, customization, and prescription. This approach is also applicable to other therapies that utilize light activation of neurons, such as photoswitches.Clinical and Translational Impact Statement-The engineering platform allows clinicians to conduct training, testing, and rehabilitation in optogenetic gene therapy for retinal degenerative diseases, providing the basis for prosthetic design, customization, and prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyuan Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY10065USA
- Bionic Sight Inc.New YorkNY10065USA
| | - Sheila Nirenberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY10065USA
- Bionic Sight Inc.New YorkNY10065USA
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30
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Ding J, Lu J, Zhang Q, Xu Y, Song B, Wu Y, Shi H, Chu B, Wang H, He Y. Camouflage Nanoparticles Enable in Situ Bioluminescence-Driven Optogenetic Therapy of Retinoblastoma. ACS NANO 2023; 17:7750-7764. [PMID: 37022677 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic therapy has emerged as a promising technique for the treatment of ocular diseases; however, most optogenetic tools rely on external blue light to activate the photoswitch, whose relatively strong phototoxicity may induce retinal damage. Herein, we present the demonstration of camouflage nanoparticle-based vectors for in situ bioluminescence-driven optogenetic therapy of retinoblastoma. In biomimetic vectors, the photoreceptor CRY2 and its interacting partner CIB1 plasmid are camouflaged with folic acid ligands and luciferase NanoLuc-modified macrophage membranes. To conduct proof-of-concept research, this study employs a mouse model of retinoblastoma. In comparison to external blue light irradiation, the developed system enables an in situ bioluminescence-activated apoptotic pathway to inhibit tumor growth with greater therapeutic efficacy, resulting in a significant reduction in ocular tumor size. Furthermore, unlike external blue light irradiation, which causes retinal damage and corneal neovascularization, the camouflage nanoparticle-based optogenetic system maintains retinal structural integrity while avoiding corneal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Ding
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jianping Lu
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Bin Song
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yuqi Wu
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Haoliang Shi
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Binbin Chu
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Houyu Wang
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yao He
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Nanotechnology and Biomedicine, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology (NANO-CIC), Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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31
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Chew LA, Iannaccone A. Gene-agnostic approaches to treating inherited retinal degenerations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1177838. [PMID: 37123404 PMCID: PMC10133473 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1177838] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Most patients with inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) have been waiting for treatments that are "just around the corner" for decades, with only a handful of seminal breakthroughs happening in recent years. Highlighting the difficulties in the quest for curative therapeutics, Luxturna required 16 years of development before finally obtaining United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and its international equivalents. IRDs are both genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous. While this diversity offers many opportunities for gene-by-gene precision medicine-based approaches, it also poses a significant challenge. For this reason, alternative (or parallel) strategies to identify more comprehensive, across-the-board therapeutics for the genetically and phenotypically diverse IRD patient population are very appealing. Even when gene-specific approaches may be available and become approved for use, many patients may have reached a disease stage whereby these approaches may no longer be viable. Thus, alternate visual preservation or restoration therapeutic approaches are needed at these stages. In this review, we underscore several gene-agnostic approaches that are being developed as therapeutics for IRDs. From retinal supplementation to stem cell transplantation, optogenetic therapy and retinal prosthetics, these strategies would bypass at least in part the need for treating every individual gene or mutation or provide an invaluable complement to them. By considering the diverse patient population and treatment strategies suited for different stages and patterns of retinal degeneration, gene agnostic approaches are very well poised to impact favorably outcomes and prognosis for IRD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A. Chew
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Alessandro Iannaccone
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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32
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Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Singh MS, Zrenner E, MacLaren RE. Bioengineering strategies for restoring vision. Nat Biomed Eng 2023; 7:387-404. [PMID: 35102278 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-021-00836-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Late-stage retinal degenerative disease involving photoreceptor loss can be treated by optogenetic therapy, cell transplantation and retinal prostheses. These approaches aim to restore light sensitivity to the retina as well as visual perception by integrating neuronal responses for transmission to the cortex. In age-related macular degeneration, some cell-based therapies also aim to restore photoreceptor-supporting tissue to prevent complete photoreceptor loss. In the earlier stages of degeneration, gene-replacement therapy could attenuate retinal-disease progression and reverse loss of function. And gene-editing strategies aim to correct the underlying genetic defects. In this Review, we highlight the most promising gene therapies, cell therapies and retinal prostheses for the treatment of retinal disease, discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment strategy and the factors influencing whether functional tissue is reconstructed and repaired or replaced with an electronic device, and summarize upcoming technologies for enhancing the restoration of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
| | | | - Eberhart Zrenner
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Center for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Cao J, Zhang J, Li B, Gao L, Zhang J. RetinaMOT: rethinking anchor-free YOLOv5 for online multiple object tracking. COMPLEX INTELL SYST 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40747-023-01009-3] [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]
Abstract
AbstractIn recent years, YOLOv5 networks have become a research focus in many fields because they are capable of outperforming state-of-the-art (SOTA) approaches in different computer vision tasks. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement in YOLOv5 in terms of target tracking. We modified YOLOv5 according to the anchor-free paradigm to be on par with other state-of-the-art tracking paradigms and modified the network backbone to design an efficient module, thus proposing the RetinaYOLO detector, which, after combining state-of-the-art tracking algorithms, achieves state-of-the-art performance: we call it RetinaMOT. To the best of our knowledge, RetinaMOT is the first such approach. The anchor-free paradigm SOTA method for the YOLOv5 architecture and RetinaYOLO outperforms all lightweight YOLO architecture methods on the MS COCO dataset. In this paper, we show the details of the RetinaYOLO backbone, embedding Kalman filtering and the Hungarian algorithm into the network, with one framework used to accomplish two tasks. Our RetinaMOT shows that MOTA metrics reach 74.8, 74.1, and 66.8 on MOT Challenge MOT16, 17, and 20 test datasets, and our method is at the top of the list when compared with state-of-the-art methods.
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Scalabrino ML, Field GD. Neuroscience: Visual restoration with optogenetics. Curr Biol 2023; 33:R110-R112. [PMID: 36750022 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.12.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Treating photoreceptor degenerative diseases is an exciting application of optogenetic technologies. However, there are significant challenges, such as producing normal visual signaling as the retina rewires in response to photoreceptor death. However, a new study shows remarkable functional stability in retinal circuits that can be engaged by optogenetics following photoreceptor loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda L Scalabrino
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Greg D Field
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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35
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Rodgers J, Hughes S, Lindner M, Allen AE, Ebrahimi AS, Storchi R, Peirson SN, Lucas RJ, Hankins MW. Functional integrity of visual coding following advanced photoreceptor degeneration. Curr Biol 2023; 33:474-486.e5. [PMID: 36630957 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Photoreceptor degeneration sufficient to produce severe visual loss often spares the inner retina. This raises hope for vision restoration treatments using optogenetics or electrical stimulation, which generate a replacement light input signal in surviving neurons. The success of these approaches is dependent on the capacity of surviving circuits of the visual system to generate and propagate an appropriate visual code in the face of neuroanatomical remodeling. To determine whether retinally degenerate animals possess this capacity, we generated a transgenic mouse model expressing the optogenetic actuator ReaChR in ON bipolar cells (second-order neurons in the visual projection). After crossing this with the rd1 model of photoreceptor degeneration, we compared ReaChR-derived responses with photoreceptor-driven responses in wild-type (WT) mice at the level of retinal ganglion cells and the visual thalamus. The ReaChR-driven responses in rd1 animals showed low photosensitivity, but in other respects generated a visual code that was very similar to the WT. ReaChR rd1 responses had high trial-to-trial reproducibility and showed sensitivity normalization to code contrast across background intensities. At the single unit level, ReaChR-derived responses exhibited broadly similar variations in response polarity, contrast sensitivity, and temporal frequency tuning as the WT. Units from the WT and ReaChR rd1 mice clustered together when subjected to unsupervised community detection based on stimulus-response properties. Our data reveal an impressive ability for surviving circuitry to recreate a rich visual code following advanced retinal degeneration and are promising for regenerative medicine in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Rodgers
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Upper Brook Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Steven Hughes
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Moritz Lindner
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK; Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Philipps University, Deutschhausstr. 1-2, Marburg 35037, Germany
| | - Annette E Allen
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Upper Brook Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Aghileh S Ebrahimi
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Upper Brook Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Riccardo Storchi
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Upper Brook Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Stuart N Peirson
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Upper Brook Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
| | - Mark W Hankins
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK.
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John MC, Quinn J, Hu ML, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Xue K. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches for inherited retinal degenerations. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1068185. [PMID: 36710928 PMCID: PMC9881597 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1068185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are associated with mutations in over 250 genes and represent a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. While gene augmentation or gene editing therapies could address the underlying genetic mutations in a small subset of patients, their utility remains limited by the great genetic heterogeneity of IRDs and the costs of developing individualised therapies. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches target common pathogenic pathways that drive retinal degeneration or provide functional rescue of vision independent of the genetic cause, thus offering potential clinical benefits to all IRD patients. Here, we review the key gene-agnostic approaches, including retinal cell reprogramming and replacement, neurotrophic support, immune modulation and optogenetics. The relative benefits and limitations of these strategies and the timing of clinical interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly C. John
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joel Quinn
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Monica L. Hu
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Cojocaru AE, Corna A, Reh M, Zeck G. High spatial resolution artificial vision inferred from the spiking output of retinal ganglion cells stimulated by optogenetic and electrical means. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1033738. [PMID: 36568888 PMCID: PMC9780279 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1033738] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With vision impairment affecting millions of people world-wide, various strategies aiming at vision restoration are being undertaken. Thanks to decades of extensive research, electrical stimulation approaches to vision restoration began to undergo clinical trials. Quite recently, another technique employing optogenetic therapy emerged as a possible alternative. Both artificial vision restoration strategies reported poor spatial resolution so far. In this article, we compared the spatial resolution inferred ex vivo under ideal conditions using a computational model analysis of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) spiking activity. The RGC spiking was stimulated in epiretinal configuration by either optogenetic or electrical means. RGCs activity was recorded from the ex vivo retina of transgenic late-stage photoreceptor-degenerated mice (rd10) using a high-density Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) based microelectrode array. The majority of retinal samples were stimulated by both, optogenetic and electrical stimuli using a spatial grating stimulus. A population-level analysis of the spiking activity of identified RGCs was performed and the spatial resolution achieved through electrical and optogenetic photo-stimulation was inferred using a support vector machine classifier. The best f1 score of the classifier for the electrical stimulation in epiretinal configuration was 86% for 32 micron wide gratings and increased to 100% for 128 microns. For optogenetically activated cells, we obtained high f1 scores of 82% for 10 microns grid width for a photo-stimulation frequency of 2.5 Hz and 73% for a photo-stimulation frequency of 10 Hz. A subsequent analysis, considering only the RGCs modulated in both electrical and optogenetic stimulation protocols revealed no significant difference in the prediction accuracy between the two stimulation modalities. The results presented here indicate that a high spatial resolution can be achieved for electrical or optogenetic artificial stimulation using the activated retinal ganglion cell output.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Corna
- Institute of Biomedical Electronics, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Miriam Reh
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Günther Zeck
- Institute of Biomedical Electronics, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
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38
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Karamali F, Behtaj S, Babaei-Abraki S, Hadady H, Atefi A, Savoj S, Soroushzadeh S, Najafian S, Nasr Esfahani MH, Klassen H. Potential therapeutic strategies for photoreceptor degeneration: the path to restore vision. J Transl Med 2022; 20:572. [PMID: 36476500 PMCID: PMC9727916 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs), as the most abundant and light-sensing cells of the neuroretina, are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. PR degeneration, including morphological and functional impairment of these cells, causes significant diminution of the retina's ability to detect light, with consequent loss of vision. Recent findings in ocular regenerative medicine have opened promising avenues to apply neuroprotective therapy, gene therapy, cell replacement therapy, and visual prostheses to the challenge of restoring vision. However, successful visual restoration in the clinical setting requires application of these therapeutic approaches at the appropriate stage of the retinal degeneration. In this review, firstly, we discuss the mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying cell death. Subsequently, innovations, recent developments, and promising treatments based on the stage of disorder progression are further explored. Then, the challenges to be addressed before implementation of these therapies in clinical practice are considered. Finally, potential solutions to overcome the current limitations of this growing research area are suggested. Overall, the majority of current treatment modalities are still at an early stage of development and require extensive additional studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, before full restoration of visual function in PR degeneration diseases can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Karamali
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Behtaj
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia ,grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222 Australia
| | - Shahnaz Babaei-Abraki
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Hadady
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soraya Savoj
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sareh Soroushzadeh
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Najafian
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Henry Klassen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Irvine, CA USA
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Sakai D, Tomita H, Maeda A. Optogenetic Therapy for Visual Restoration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15041. [PMID: 36499371 PMCID: PMC9735806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is a recent breakthrough in neuroscience, and one of the most promising applications is the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases. Multiple clinical trials are currently ongoing, less than a decade after the first attempt at visual restoration using optogenetics. Optogenetic therapy has great value in providing hope for visual restoration in late-stage retinal degeneration, regardless of the genotype. This alternative gene therapy consists of multiple elements including the choice of target retinal cells, optogenetic tools, and gene delivery systems. Currently, there are various options for each element, all of which have been developed as a product of technological success. In particular, the performance of optogenetic tools in terms of light and wavelength sensitivity have been improved by engineering microbial opsins and applying human opsins. To provide better post-treatment vision, the optimal choice of optogenetic tools and effective gene delivery to retinal cells is necessary. In this review, we provide an overview of the advancements in optogenetic therapy for visual restoration, focusing on available options for optogenetic tools and gene delivery methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Sakai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tomita
- Graduate Course in Biological Sciences, Division of Science and Engineering, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan
| | - Akiko Maeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
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40
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Liu F, Zhang M, Xiong G, Han X, Lee VWH, So KF, Chiu K, Xu Y. Trans-Sclera Electrical Stimulation Improves Retinal Function in a Mouse Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1917. [PMID: 36431052 PMCID: PMC9693292 DOI: 10.3390/life12111917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a photoreceptor-degenerating disease with no effective treatment. Trans-corneal electrical stimulation has neuroprotective effects in degenerating retinas, but repeated applications cause corneal injury. To avoid the risk of corneal damage, here we tested whether repetitive trans-sclera electrical stimulation (TsES) protects degenerating retinas in rd10 mice, a model of RP. At postnatal day 20 (P20), the right eyes of rd10 mice were exposed to 30 min of TsES daily or every other day till P25, at the amplitude of 50 or 100 μA, with zero current as the sham. Immunostaining, multi-electrode-array (MEA) recording, and a black-and-white transition box were applied to examine the morphological and functional changes of the treated retina. Functionally, TsES modified the retinal light responses. It also reduced the high spontaneous firing of retinal ganglion cells. TsES at 100 μA but not 50 μA increased the light sensitivities of ganglion cells as well as their signal-to-noise ratios. TsES at 100 μA increased the survival of photoreceptors without improving the visual behavior of rd10 mice. Our data suggest that repetitive TsES improves the retinal function of rd10 mice at the early degenerating stage, therefore, it might be an effective long-term strategy to delay retinal degeneration in RP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Liu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Jinan University, 601 West Huangpu Ave., Guangzhou 510632, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mengrong Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Jinan University, 601 West Huangpu Ave., Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Guoyin Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiu Han
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Jinan University, 601 West Huangpu Ave., Guangzhou 510632, China
| | | | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Jinan University, 601 West Huangpu Ave., Guangzhou 510632, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kin Chiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Jinan University, 601 West Huangpu Ave., Guangzhou 510632, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
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Rotov AY, Firsov ML. Optogenetic Prosthetization of Retinal Bipolar Cells. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093022060011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Although the experience of optogenetic retinal prosthetics
in animal models dates back to more than 16 years, the first results
obtained on humans have only been reported in the last year. Over this
period, the main challenges of prosthetics became clear and the
approaches to their solution were proposed. In this review, we aim
to present the achievements in the field of optogenetic prosthetization
of retinal bipolar cells with a focus mainly on relatively recent
publications. The review addresses the advantages and disadvantages
of bipolar cell prosthetics as compared to the alternative target,
retinal ganglion cells, and provides a comparative analysis of the
effectiveness of ionotropic light-sensitive proteins (channelrhodopsins)
or metabotropic receptors (rhodopsins) as prosthetic tools.
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42
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De Silva SR, Moore AT. Optogenetic approaches to therapy for inherited retinal degenerations. J Physiol 2022; 600:4623-4632. [PMID: 35908243 DOI: 10.1113/jp282076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) affect around one in 4000 people and are the leading cause of blindness in working age adults in several countries. In these typically monogenic conditions, there is progressive degeneration of photoreceptors; however, inner retinal neurons such as bipolar cells and ganglion cells remain largely structurally intact, even in end-stage disease. Therapeutic approaches aiming to stimulate these residual cells, independent of the underlying genetic cause, could potentially restore visual function in patients with advanced vision loss, and benefit many more patients than therapies directed at the specific gene implicated in each disorder. One approach investigated for this purpose is that of optogenetics, a method of neuromodulation that utilises light to activate neurons engineered to ectopically express a light-sensitive protein. Using gene therapy via adeno-associated viral vectors, a range of photosensitive proteins have been expressed in remaining retinal cells in advanced retinal degeneration with in vivo studies demonstrating restoration of visual function. Developing an effective optogenetic strategy requires consideration of multiple factors, including the light-sensitive protein that is used, the vector and method for gene delivery, and the target cell for expression because these in turn may affect the quality of vision that can be restored. Currently, at least four clinical trials are ongoing to investigate optogenetic therapies in patients, with the ultimate aim of reversing visual loss in end-stage disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha R De Silva
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anthony T Moore
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,Ophthalmology Department, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Bipolar cell targeted optogenetic gene therapy restores parallel retinal signaling and high-level vision in the degenerated retina. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1116. [PMID: 36266533 PMCID: PMC9585040 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04016-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic gene therapies to restore vision are in clinical trials. Whilst current clinical approaches target the ganglion cells, the output neurons of the retina, new molecular tools enable efficient targeting of the first order retinal interneurons, the bipolar cells, with the potential to restore a higher quality of vision. Here we investigate retinal signaling and behavioral vision in blind mice treated with bipolar cell targeted optogenetic gene therapies. All tested tools, including medium-wave opsin, Opto-mGluR6, and two new melanopsin based chimeras restored visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. The best performing opsin was a melanopsin-mGluR6 chimera, which in some cases restored visual acuities and contrast sensitivities that match wild-type animals. Light responses from the ganglion cells were robust with diverse receptive-field types, inferring elaborate inner retinal signaling. Our results highlight the potential of bipolar cell targeted optogenetics to recover high-level vision in human patients with end-stage retinal degenerations. A chimeric Mela(CTmGluR6) optogenetic tool has the potential to restore vision and signaling in a mouse model of degenerative retinal disease.
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Pochechuev MS, Bilan DS, Fedotov IV, Kelmanson IV, Solotenkov MA, Stepanov EA, Kotova DA, Ivanova AD, Kostyuk AI, Raevskii RI, Lanin AA, Fedotov AB, Belousov VV, Zheltikov AM. Real-time fiber-optic recording of acute-ischemic-stroke signatures. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2022; 15:e202200050. [PMID: 35654757 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202200050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We present an experimental framework and methodology for in vivo studies on rat stroke models that enable a real-time fiber-optic recording of stroke-induced hydrogen peroxide and pH transients in ischemia-affected brain areas. Arrays of reconnectable implantable fiber probes combined with advanced optogenetic fluorescent protein sensors are shown to enable a quantitative multisite time-resolved study of oxidative-stress and acidosis buildup dynamics as the key markers, correlates and possible drivers of ischemic stroke. The fiber probes designed for this work provide a wavelength-multiplex forward-propagation channel for a spatially localized, dual-pathway excitation of genetically encoded fluorescence-protein sensors along with a back-propagation channel for the fluorescence return from optically driven fluorescence sensors. We show that the spectral analysis of the fiber-probe-collected fluorescence return provides means for a high-fidelity autofluorescence background subtraction, thus enhancing the sensitivity of real-time detection of stroke-induced transients and significantly reducing measurement uncertainties in in vivo acute-stroke studies as inherently statistical experiments operating with outcomes of multiply repeated measurements on large populations of individually variable animal stroke models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dmitry S Bilan
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya V Fedotov
- Physics Department, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Russian Quantum Center, Skolkovo, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya V Kelmanson
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maxim A Solotenkov
- Physics Department, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeny A Stepanov
- Physics Department, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria A Kotova
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra D Ivanova
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander I Kostyuk
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Roman I Raevskii
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksandr A Lanin
- Physics Department, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Russian Quantum Center, Skolkovo, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrei B Fedotov
- Physics Department, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Russian Quantum Center, Skolkovo, Moscow, Russia
- National University of Science and Technology "MISiS", Moscow, Russia
| | - Vsevolod V Belousov
- M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksei M Zheltikov
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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Xu C, Lu G, Kang H, Humayun MS, Zhou Q. Design and Simulation of a Ring Transducer Array for Ultrasound Retinal Stimulation. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1536. [PMID: 36144157 PMCID: PMC9503310 DOI: 10.3390/mi13091536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Argus II retinal prosthesis is the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medical device intended to restore sight to a patient's blind secondary to retinal degeneration (i.e., retinitis pigmentosa). However, Argus II and most reported retinal prostheses require invasive surgery to implant electrodes in the eye. Recent studies have shown that focused ultrasound can be developed into a non-invasive retinal prosthesis technology. Ultrasound energy focused on retinal neurons can trigger the activities of retinal neurons with high spatial-temporal resolution. This paper introduces a novel design and simulation of a ring array transducer that could be used as non-invasive ultrasonic retinal stimulation. The array transducer is designed in the shape of a racing ring with a hemisphere surface that mimics a contact lens to acoustically couple with the eye via the tear film and directs the ultrasound to avoid the high acoustic absorption from the crystalline lens. We will describe the design methods and simulation of the two-dimensional pattern stimulation. Finally, compared with other existing retinal prostheses, we show that the ultrasound ring array is practical and safe and could be potentially used as a non-invasive retinal prosthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenlin Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Gengxi Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Haochen Kang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Mark S. Humayun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Qifa Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Spampinato GLB, Ronzitti E, Zampini V, Ferrari U, Trapani F, Khabou H, Agraval A, Dalkara D, Picaud S, Papagiakoumou E, Marre O, Emiliani V. All-optical inter-layers functional connectivity investigation in the mouse retina. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100268. [PMID: 36046629 PMCID: PMC9421538 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We developed a multi-unit microscope for all-optical inter-layers circuits interrogation. The system performs two-photon (2P) functional imaging and 2P multiplexed holographic optogenetics at axially distinct planes. We demonstrated the capability of the system to map, in the mouse retina, the functional connectivity between rod bipolar cells (RBCs) and ganglion cells (GCs) by activating single or defined groups of RBCs while recording the evoked response in the GC layer with cell-type specificity and single-cell resolution. We then used a logistic model to probe the functional connectivity between cell types by deriving the "cellular receptive field" describing how RBCs impact each GC type. With the capability to simultaneously image and control neuronal activity at axially distinct planes, the system enables a precise interrogation of multi-layered circuits. Understanding this information transfer is a promising avenue to dissect complex neural circuits and understand the neural basis of computations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emiliano Ronzitti
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Valeria Zampini
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Ulisse Ferrari
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Francesco Trapani
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Hanen Khabou
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | | | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Serge Picaud
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | | | - Olivier Marre
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Valentina Emiliani
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
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Emiliani V, Entcheva E, Hedrich R, Hegemann P, Konrad KR, Lüscher C, Mahn M, Pan ZH, Sims RR, Vierock J, Yizhar O. Optogenetics for light control of biological systems. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:55. [PMID: 37933248 PMCID: PMC10627578 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques have been developed to allow control over the activity of selected cells within a highly heterogeneous tissue, using a combination of genetic engineering and light. Optogenetics employs natural and engineered photoreceptors, mostly of microbial origin, to be genetically introduced into the cells of interest. As a result, cells that are naturally light-insensitive can be made photosensitive and addressable by illumination and precisely controllable in time and space. The selectivity of expression and subcellular targeting in the host is enabled by applying control elements such as promoters, enhancers and specific targeting sequences to the employed photoreceptor-encoding DNA. This powerful approach allows precise characterization and manipulation of cellular functions and has motivated the development of advanced optical methods for patterned photostimulation. Optogenetics has revolutionized neuroscience during the past 15 years and is primed to have a similar impact in other fields, including cardiology, cell biology and plant sciences. In this Primer, we describe the principles of optogenetics, review the most commonly used optogenetic tools, illumination approaches and scientific applications and discuss the possibilities and limitations associated with optogenetic manipulations across a wide variety of optical techniques, cells, circuits and organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Emiliani
- Wavefront Engineering Microscopy Group, Photonics Department, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rainer Hedrich
- Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Hegemann
- Institute for Biology, Experimental Biophysics, Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kai R. Konrad
- Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Clinic of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Mahn
- Department of Neurobiology, Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Zhuo-Hua Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ruth R. Sims
- Wavefront Engineering Microscopy Group, Photonics Department, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Johannes Vierock
- Institute for Biology, Experimental Biophysics, Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité – Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ofer Yizhar
- Departments of Brain Sciences and Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Gilhooley MJ, Lindner M, Palumaa T, Hughes S, Peirson SN, Hankins MW. A systematic comparison of optogenetic approaches to visual restoration. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 25:111-123. [PMID: 35402632 PMCID: PMC8956963 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
During inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs), vision is lost due to photoreceptor cell death; however, a range of optogenetic tools have been shown to restore light responses in animal models. Restored response characteristics vary between tools and the neuronal cell population to which they are delivered: the interplay between these is complex, but targeting upstream neurons (such as retinal bipolar cells) may provide functional benefit by retaining intraretinal signal processing. In this study, our aim was to compare two optogenetic tools: mammalian melanopsin (hOPN4) and microbial red-shifted channelrhodopsin (ReaChR) expressed within two subpopulations of surviving cells in a degenerate retina. Intravitreal adeno-associated viral vectors and mouse models utilising the Cre/lox system restricted expression to populations dominated by bipolar cells or retinal ganglion cells and was compared with non-targeted delivery using the chicken beta actin (CBA) promoter. In summary, we found bipolar-targeted optogenetic tools produced faster kinetics and flatter intensity-response relationships compared with non-targeted or retinal-ganglion-cell-targeted hOPN4. Hence, optogenetic tools of both mammalian and microbial origins show advantages when targeted to bipolar cells. This demonstrates the advantage of bipolar-cell-targeted optogenetics for vision restoration in IRDs. We therefore developed a bipolar-cell-specific gene delivery system employing a compressed promoter with the potential for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Gilhooley
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, 162, City Road, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Moritz Lindner
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Philipps University, Deutschhausstrasse 1-2, Marburg 35037, Germany
| | - Teele Palumaa
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- East Tallinn Central Hospital Eye Clinic, Ravi 18, 10138 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Steven Hughes
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Stuart N. Peirson
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Mark W. Hankins
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Jules Thorne SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Corresponding author Mark W. Hankins, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK.
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Lindner M, Gilhooley MJ, Hughes S, Hankins MW. Optogenetics for visual restoration: From proof of principle to translational challenges. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101089. [PMID: 35691861 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Degenerative retinal disorders are a diverse family of diseases commonly leading to irreversible photoreceptor death, while leaving the inner retina relatively intact. Over recent years, innovative gene replacement therapies aiming to halt the progression of certain inherited retinal disorders have made their way into clinics. By rendering surviving retinal neurons light sensitive optogenetic gene therapy now offers a feasible treatment option that can restore lost vision, even in late disease stages and widely independent of the underlying cause of degeneration. Since proof-of-concept almost fifteen years ago, this field has rapidly evolved and a detailed first report on a treated patient has recently been published. In this article, we provide a review of optogenetic approaches for vision restoration. We discuss the currently available optogenetic tools and their relative advantages and disadvantages. Possible cellular targets will be discussed and we will address the question how retinal remodelling may affect the choice of the target and to what extent it may limit the outcomes of optogenetic vision restoration. Finally, we will analyse the evidence for and against optogenetic tool mediated toxicity and will discuss the challenges associated with clinical translation of this promising therapeutic concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Lindner
- The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Jules Thorn SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, United Kingdom; Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Philipps University, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Michael J Gilhooley
- The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Jules Thorn SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, United Kingdom; The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom; Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, EC1V 2PD, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Hughes
- The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Jules Thorn SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Mark W Hankins
- The Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Jules Thorn SCNi, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, United Kingdom.
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Kim S, Roh H, Im M. Artificial Visual Information Produced by Retinal Prostheses. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:911754. [PMID: 35734216 PMCID: PMC9208577 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.911754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous retinal prosthetic systems have demonstrated somewhat useful vision can be restored to individuals who had lost their sight due to outer retinal degenerative diseases. Earlier prosthetic studies have mostly focused on the confinement of electrical stimulation for improved spatial resolution and/or the biased stimulation of specific retinal ganglion cell (RGC) types for selective activation of retinal ON/OFF pathway for enhanced visual percepts. To better replicate normal vision, it would be also crucial to consider information transmission by spiking activities arising in the RGC population since an incredible amount of visual information is transferred from the eye to the brain. In previous studies, however, it has not been well explored how much artificial visual information is created in response to electrical stimuli delivered by microelectrodes. In the present work, we discuss the importance of the neural information for high-quality artificial vision. First, we summarize the previous literatures which have computed information transmission rates from spiking activities of RGCs in response to visual stimuli. Second, we exemplify a couple of studies which computed the neural information from electrically evoked responses. Third, we briefly introduce how information rates can be computed in the representative two ways - direct method and reconstruction method. Fourth, we introduce in silico approaches modeling artificial retinal neural networks to explore the relationship between amount of information and the spiking patterns. Lastly, we conclude our review with clinical implications to emphasize the necessity of considering visual information transmission for further improvement of retinal prosthetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sein Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyeonhee Roh
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
- School of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Maesoon Im
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
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