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Li S, Sun H, Chen L, Fu Y. Targeting limbal epithelial stem cells: master conductors of corneal epithelial regeneration from the bench to multilevel theranostics. J Transl Med 2024; 22:794. [PMID: 39198892 PMCID: PMC11350997 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05603-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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the outermost layer of the eye and plays an essential role in our visual system. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs), which are localized to a highly regulated limbal niche, are the master conductors of corneal epithelial regeneration. Damage to LESCs and their niche may result in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a disease confused ophthalmologists so many years and can lead to corneal conjunctivalization, neovascularization, and even blindness. How to restore the LESCs function is the hot topic for ocular scientists and clinicians around the world. This review introduced LESCs and the niche microenvironment, outlined various techniques for isolating and culturing LESCs used in LSCD research, presented common diseases that cause LSCD, and provided a comprehensive overview of both the diagnosis and multiple treatments for LSCD from basic research to clinical therapies, especially the emerging cell therapies based on various stem cell sources. In addition, we also innovatively concluded the latest strategies in recent years, including exogenous drugs, tissue engineering, nanotechnology, exosome and gene therapy, as well as the ongoing clinical trials for treating LSCD in recent five years. Finally, we highlighted challenges from bench to bedside in LSCD and discussed cutting-edge areas in LSCD therapeutic research. We hope that this review could pave the way for future research and translation on treating LSCD, a crucial step in the field of ocular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiding Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Liangbo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, 639 Zhizaoju Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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2
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Ji X, Li Y, Liu M, Chen L, Zhang X, Wang M, Tian S, Lu L, Zhang M, Zheng Y, Tang J. Diesel exhaust exposure induced squamous metaplasia of corneal epithelium via yes-associated protein activation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 362:142564. [PMID: 38885762 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142564] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Atmospheric pollution has been demonstrated to be associated with ocular surface diseases characterized by corneal epithelial damage, including impaired barrier function and squamous metaplasia. However, the specific mechanisms underlying the impact of atmospheric pollution on corneal damage are still unknow. To address this gap in knowledge, we conducted a study using a whole-body exposure system to investigate the detrimental effects of traffic-related air pollution, specifically diesel exhaust (DE), on corneal epithelium in C57BL/6 mice over a 28-day period. Following DE exposure, the pathological alterations in corneal epithelium, including significant increase in corneal thickness and epithelial stratification, were observed in mice. Additionally, exposure to DE was also shown to disrupt the barrier functions of corneal epithelium, leading to excessive proliferation of basal cells and even causing squamous metaplasia in corneal epithelium. Further studies have found that the activation of yes-associated protein (YAP), characterized by nuclear translocation, may play a significant role in DE-induced corneal squamous metaplasia. In vitro assays confirmed that DE exposure triggered the YAP/β-catenin pathway, resulting in squamous metaplasia and destruction of barrier functions. These findings provide the preliminary evidence that YAP activation is one of the mechanisms of the damage to corneal epithelium caused by traffic-related air pollution. These findings contribute to the knowledge base for promoting eye health in the context of atmospheric pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Ji
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yanting Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Meike Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Linfei Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xinglin Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Mingyue Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Shuhan Tian
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Mingliang Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jinglong Tang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
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Song C, Li L, Liu C, Hu L, Bai J, Liang W, Zhao L, Song W, Li S. Whole-exome sequencing screening for candidate genes and variants associated with primary sporadic keratoconus in Chinese patients. Exp Eye Res 2024; 245:109978. [PMID: 38908538 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of keratoconus (KC) is complex, and genetic factors play an important role. The purpose of this study was to screen and analyse candidate genes and variants in Chinese patients with primary sporadic KC. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify candidate genes and variants in 105 unrelated Chinese patients with primary sporadic KC. Through a series of screening processes, 54 candidate variants in 26 KC candidate genes were identified in 53 KC patients (53/105, 50.5%). These 54 candidate variants included 10 previously identified variants in 9 KC candidate genes and 44 novel variants in 20 KC candidate genes. The previously identified variants occurred in 25.7% (27/105) of patients. Of these, 4 variants (COL6A5, c.5014T > G; CAST, c.1814G > A; ZNF469, c.946G > A; and MPDZ, c.3836A > G) were identified for the first time in Chinese KC patients. The novel variants occurred in 33.3% (35/105) of patients. Of the 26 screened KC candidate genes, 11 KC candidate genes (CAT, COL12A1, FLG, HKDC1, HSPG2, PLOD1, ITGA2, TFAP2B, USH2A, WNT10A, and COL6A5) were found to be potentially pathogenic in Chinese KC patients for the first time. Gene Ontology (GO) biological process (BP) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed on the 26 KC candidate genes using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The results showed that the KC candidate genes were significantly enriched in biological processes such as collagen fibril organization and extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and in ECM-receptor interaction and protein digestion and absorption pathways. The results further expand the spectrum of KC candidate variants and provide a basis for further KC gene studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyuan Song
- Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510071, China
| | - Ling Li
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Luping Hu
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Weiyan Liang
- Aier Eye Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, 230031, China; Tianjin Aier Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300000, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Wenxiu Song
- Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Shaowei Li
- Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510071, China; Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Corneal Institute, Beijing, 100021, China; Aier Eye Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, 230031, China; Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
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4
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Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
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5
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Liu H, Zhang X, Tan Q, Ge L, Lu J, Ren C, Bian B, Li Y, Liu Y. A moderate dosage of prostaglandin E2-mediated annexin A1 upregulation promotes alkali-burned corneal repair. iScience 2023; 26:108565. [PMID: 38144456 PMCID: PMC10746505 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108565] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal alkali burn remains a clinical challenge in ocular emergency, necessitating the development of effective therapeutic drugs. Here, we observed the arachidonic acid metabolic disorders of corneas induced by alkali burns and aimed to explore the role of Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a critical metabolite of arachidonic acid, in the repair of alkali-burned corneas. We found a moderate dosage of PGE2 promoted the alkali-burned corneal epithelial repair, whereas a high dosage of PGE2 exhibited a contrary effect. This divergent effect is attributed to different dosages of PGE2 regulating ANXA1 expression differently. Mechanically, a high dosage of PGE2 induced higher GATA3 expression, followed by enhanced GATA3 binding to the ANXA1 promoter to inhibit ANXA1 expression. In contrast, a moderate dosage of PGE2 increased CREB1 phosphorylation and reduced GATA3 binding to the ANXA1 promoter, promoting ANXA1 expression. We believe PGE2 and its regulatory target ANXA1 could be potential drugs for alkali-burned corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongling Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiang Tan
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Lingling Ge
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jia Lu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Chunge Ren
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Baishijiao Bian
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
- Army 953 Hospital, Shigatse Branch of Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Shigatse 857000, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Yijian Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
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Kauppila M, Mörö A, Valle-Delgado JJ, Ihalainen T, Sukki L, Puistola P, Kallio P, Ilmarinen T, Österberg M, Skottman H. Toward Corneal Limbus In Vitro Model: Regulation of hPSC-LSC Phenotype by Matrix Stiffness and Topography During Cell Differentiation Process. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301396. [PMID: 37449943 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301396] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
A functional limbal epithelial stem cells (LSC) niche is a vital element in the regular renewal of the corneal epithelium by LSCs and maintenance of good vision. However, little is known about its unique structure and mechanical properties on LSC regulation, creating a significant gap in development of LSC-based therapies. Herein, the effect of mechanical and architectural elements of the niche on human pluripotent derived LSCs (hPSC-LSC) phenotype and growth is investigated in vitro. Specifically, three formulations of polyacrylamide gels with different controlled stiffnesses are used for culture and characterization of hPSC-LSCs from different stages of differentiation. In addition, limbal mimicking topography in polydimethylsiloxane is utilized for culturing hPSC-LSCs at early time point of differentiation. For comparison, the expression of selected key proteins of the corneal cells is analyzed in their native environment through whole mount staining of human donor corneas. The results suggest that mechanical response and substrate preference of the cells is highly dependent on their developmental stage. In addition, data indicate that cells may carry possible mechanical memory from previous culture matrix, both highlighting the importance of mechanical design of a functional in vitro limbus model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Kauppila
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Anni Mörö
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Juan José Valle-Delgado
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, 02150, Finland
| | - Teemu Ihalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Lassi Sukki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Paula Puistola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Pasi Kallio
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Monika Österberg
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, 02150, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, 33520, Finland
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Jaskiewicz K, Maleszka-Kurpiel M, Matuszewska E, Kabza M, Rydzanicz M, Malinowski R, Ploski R, Matysiak J, Gajecka M. The Impaired Wound Healing Process Is a Major Factor in Remodeling of the Corneal Epithelium in Adult and Adolescent Patients With Keratoconus. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:22. [PMID: 36811882 PMCID: PMC9970004 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.2.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Keratoconus (KTCN) is the most common corneal ectasia, characterized by pathological cone formation. Here, to provide an insight into the remodeling of the corneal epithelium (CE) during the course of the disease, we evaluated topographic regions of the CE of adult and adolescent patients with KTCN. Methods The CE samples from 17 adult and 6 adolescent patients with KTCN, and 5 control CE samples were obtained during the CXL and PRK procedures, respectively. Three topographic regions, central, middle, and peripheral, were separated toward RNA sequencing and MALDI-TOF/TOF Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Data from transcriptomic and proteomic investigations were consolidated with the morphological and clinical findings. Results The critical elements of the wound healing process, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell-cell communications, and cell-extracellular matrix interactions were altered in the particular corneal topographic regions. Abnormalities in pathways of neutrophils degranulation, extracellular matrix processing, apical junctions, IL, and IFN signaling were revealed to cooperatively disorganize the epithelial healing. Deregulation of the epithelial healing, G2M checkpoints, apoptosis, and DNA repair pathways in the middle CE topographic region in KTCN explains the presence of morphological changes in the corresponding doughnut pattern (a thin cone center surrounded by a thickened annulus). Despite similar morphological characteristics of CE samples in adolescents and adults with KTCN, their transcriptomic features were different. Values of the posterior corneal elevation differentiated adults with KTCN from adolescents with KTCN and correlated with the expression of TCHP, SPATA13, CNOT3, WNK1, TGFB2, and KRT12 genes. Conclusions Identified molecular, morphological, and clinical features indicate the effect of impaired wound healing on corneal remodeling in KTCN CE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Maleszka-Kurpiel
- Optegra Eye Health Care Clinic in Poznan, Poznan, Poland,Department of Optometry, Chair of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Eliza Matuszewska
- Chair and Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michał Kabza
- Chair and Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Robert Malinowski
- Institute of Plant Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Rafal Ploski
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jan Matysiak
- Chair and Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marzena Gajecka
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland,Chair and Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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8
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Di Girolamo N, Park M. Cell identity changes in ocular surface Epithelia. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022:101148. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Compagnoni C, Zelli V, Bianchi A, Di Marco A, Capelli R, Vecchiotti D, Brandolini L, Cimini AM, Zazzeroni F, Allegretti M, Alesse E, Tessitore A. MicroRNAs Expression in Response to rhNGF in Epithelial Corneal Cells: Focus on Neurotrophin Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073597. [PMID: 35408969 PMCID: PMC8998691 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Nerve growth factor efficacy was demonstrated for corneal lesions treatment, and recombinant human NGF (rhNGF) was approved for neurotrophic keratitis therapy. However, NGF-induced molecular responses in cornea are still largely unknown. We analyzed microRNAs expression in human epithelial corneal cells after time-dependent rhNGF treatment. METHODS Nearly 700 microRNAs were analyzed by qRT-PCR. MicroRNAs showing significant expression differences were examined by DIANA-miRpath v.3.0 to identify target genes and pathways. Immunoblots were performed to preliminarily assess the strength of the in silico results. RESULTS Twenty-one microRNAs (miR-26a-1-3p, miR-30d-3p, miR-27b-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-362-5p, mir-550a-5p, mir-34a-3p, mir-1227-3p, mir-27a-5p, mir-222-5p, mir-151a-5p, miR-449a, let7c-5p, miR-337-5p, mir-29b-3p, miR-200b-3p, miR-141-3p, miR-671-3p, miR-324-5p, mir-411-3p, and mir-425-3p) were significantly regulated in response to rhNGF. In silico analysis evidenced interesting target genes and pathways, including that of neurotrophin, when analyzed in depth. Almost 80 unique target genes (e.g., PI3K, AKT, MAPK, KRAS, BRAF, RhoA, Cdc42, Rac1, Bax, Bcl2, FasL) were identified as being among those most involved in neurotrophin signaling and in controlling cell proliferation, growth, and apoptosis. AKT and RhoA immunoblots demonstrated congruence with microRNA expression, providing preliminary validation of in silico data. CONCLUSIONS MicroRNA levels in response to rhNGF were for the first time analyzed in corneal cells. Novel insights about microRNAs, target genes, pathways modulation, and possible biological responses were provided. Importantly, given the putative role of microRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic targets, our results make available data which might be potentially exploitable for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Compagnoni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
| | - Veronica Zelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
- Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Advanced Therapies, University of L’Aquila, Via Petrini, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianchi
- Department of Information Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.B.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Antinisca Di Marco
- Department of Information Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.B.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Roberta Capelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
| | - Davide Vecchiotti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
- Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Advanced Therapies, University of L’Aquila, Via Petrini, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Laura Brandolini
- Dompé Farmaceutici Spa, via Campo di Pile, 1, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.B.); (M.A.)
| | - Anna Maria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, P.zza S. Tommasi, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Francesca Zazzeroni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
| | - Marcello Allegretti
- Dompé Farmaceutici Spa, via Campo di Pile, 1, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.B.); (M.A.)
| | - Edoardo Alesse
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
| | - Alessandra Tessitore
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.C.); (V.Z.); (R.C.); (D.V.); (F.Z.); (E.A.)
- Center for Molecular Diagnostics and Advanced Therapies, University of L’Aquila, Via Petrini, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-086-243-3518; Fax: +39-0862433131
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10
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Ikkala K, Stratoulias V, Michon F. Unilateral zebrafish corneal injury induces bilateral cell plasticity supporting wound closure. Sci Rep 2022; 12:161. [PMID: 34997071 PMCID: PMC8741998 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea, transparent and outermost structure of camera-type eyes, is prone to environmental challenges, but has remarkable wound healing capabilities which enables to preserve vision. The manner in which cell plasticity impacts wound healing remains to be determined. In this study, we report rapid wound closure after zebrafish corneal epithelium abrasion. Furthermore, by investigating the cellular and molecular events taking place during corneal epithelial closure, we show the induction of a bilateral response to a unilateral wound. Our transcriptomic results, together with our TGF-beta receptor inhibition experiments, demonstrate conclusively the crucial role of TGF-beta signaling in corneal wound healing. Finally, our results on Pax6 expression and bilateral wound healing, demonstrate the decisive impact of epithelial cell plasticity on the pace of healing. Altogether, our study describes terminally differentiated cell competencies in the healing of an injured cornea. These findings will enhance the translation of research on cell plasticity to organ regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaisa Ikkala
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vassilis Stratoulias
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Frederic Michon
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France.
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11
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Deng F, Wu Z, Xu M, Xia P. YAP Activates STAT3 Signalling to Promote Colonic Epithelial Cell Proliferation in DSS-Induced Colitis and Colitis Associated Cancer. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:5471-5482. [PMID: 36164660 PMCID: PMC9508680 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s377077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a key transcriptional coactivator of cell proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we sought to identify the roles of YAP in colonic epithelial regeneration and tumourigenesis. METHODS Murine DSS-induced colitis and YAP overexpression models were constructed via lentiviral intraperitoneal injection. Stable YAP-overexpressing cells, protein immunoprecipitation, and ChIP were used to deeply explore the molecular mechanism. RESULTS We found that the expression of YAP was dramatically diminished in the colonic crypts during the acute colitis phase, while YAP was strikingly enhanced to initiate tissue repair after DSS withdrawal. Overexpressing YAP in mice drastically accelerated epithelial regeneration, presenting with more intact structural integrity and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the mucosa. Further mechanistic studies showed that the expression of YAP in the nucleus was significantly increased by 2 h post-DSS removal, accompanied by upregulated protein levels of activated STAT3. Overexpression of YAP (YAPWT) elevated the expression of activated STAT3 and its transcriptional targets and strengthened the proliferation and "wound healing" ability of colonic cells. However, these effects were reversed when STAT3 was silenced in YAPWT cells. Moreover, YAP could directly interact with STAT3 in the nucleus, and c-Myc and CyclinD1 were the transcriptional targets. Finally, during colitis-associated cancer (CAC), YAPWT promoted the progression of CAC, while the phosphomimetic YAP downregulated the expression of STAT3 and inhibited the development and progression of CAC. CONCLUSION YAP activates STAT3 signalling to facilitate mucosal regeneration after DSS-induced colitis. However, excessive YAP activation in the colonic epithelium promotes CAC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feihong Deng
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
- Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Feihong Deng, Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University; Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People’s Republic of China, Email
| | - Zengrong Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
- Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengmeng Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
- Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pianpian Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
- Research Center of Digestive Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
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12
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Vattulainen M, Ilmarinen T, Viheriälä T, Jokinen V, Skottman H. Corneal epithelial differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells generates ABCB5 + and ∆Np63α + cells with limbal cell characteristics and high wound healing capacity. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:609. [PMID: 34930437 PMCID: PMC8691049 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Differentiation of functional limbal stem cells (LSCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is an important objective which can provide novel treatment solutions for patients suffering from limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Yet, further characterization is needed to better evaluate their immunogenicity and regenerative potential before clinical applications. Methods Human PSCs were differentiated towards corneal fate and cryopreserved using a clinically applicable protocol. Resulting hPSC-LSC populations were examined at days 10–11 and 24–25 during differentiation as well as at passage 1 post-thaw. Expression of cornea-associated markers including PAX6, ABCG2, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14, CK12 and ABCB5 as well as human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) was analyzed using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Wound healing properties of the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs were assessed via calcium imaging and scratch assay. Human and porcine tissue-derived cultured LSCs were used as controls for marker expression analysis and scratch assays at passage 1. Results The day 24–25 and post-thaw hPSC-LSCs displayed a similar marker profile with the tissue-derived LSCs, showing abundant expression of PAX6, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14 and ABCB5 and low expression of ABCG2. In contrast, day 10–11 hPSC-LSCs had lower expression of ABCB5 and ∆Np63α, but high expression of ABCG2. A small portion of the day 10–11 cells coexpressed ABCG2 and ABCB5. The expression of class I HLAs increased during hPSC-LSCs differentiation and was uniform in post-thaw hPSC-LSCs, however the intensity was lower in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. The calcium imaging revealed that the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs generated a robust response towards epithelial wound healing signaling mediator ATP. Further, scratch assay revealed that post-thaw hPSC-LSCs had higher wound healing capacity in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. Conclusions Clinically relevant LSC-like cells can be efficiently differentiated from hPSCs. The post-thaw hPSC-LSCs possess functional potency in calcium responses towards injury associated signals and in wound closure. The developmental trajectory observed during hPSC-LSC differentiation, giving rise to ABCG2+ population and further to ABCB5+ and ∆Np63α+ cells with limbal characteristics, indicates hPSC-derived cells can be utilized as a valuable cell source for the treatment of patients afflicted corneal blindness due to LSCD. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meri Vattulainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Vilma Jokinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
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Fitriana PO, Pawiroranu S, Widayanti TW, Wirohadidjojo YW, Mahayana IT. Autologous platelet-rich plasma eye drop for moderate-to-severe bacterial corneal ulcers: Changes in interleukin-6 tear concentration and clinical outcomes. Taiwan J Ophthalmol 2021; 12:457-461. [PMID: 36660115 PMCID: PMC9843573 DOI: 10.4103/tjo.tjo_42_21] [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: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to evaluate interleukin-6 (IL-6) tear concentration and clinical outcome in patients with moderate-to-severe bacterial corneal ulcers post autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) eye drop therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a pre-post designed study involving 21 moderate-severe corneal ulcer patients who got autologous PRP eye drop. Subjects were got autologous PRP eye drop as adjuvant therapy. Patients with moderate-to-severe infectious bacterial corneal ulcers were included in this study. Tear sampling was performed before therapy using sterile Schirmer paper from conjunctival inferior fornix. PRP therapy was performed for 7 days. Data recording and tear sampling were then performed at day 0 (pre-PRP), day 7 (D+7), and day 14 (D+14) after PRP therapy. Data recording included presence of pericorneal injection, blepharospasm, size of corneal defects, and hypopyon. RESULTS There was a decrease in IL-6 tear concentration by day 14 after PRP therapy (P < 0.001). IL-6 concentration at day 7 after therapy (7525.67 ± 7092 pg/mL) tended to be lower before therapy (10,599 ± 6158 pg/mL), but not statistically significant (P = 0.156). The size of corneal defects decreased significantly post PRP at day 7 (P = 0.035) and at day 14 (P = 0.001). There was a significant blepharospasm at day 7 (P = 0.012) and day 14 (P < 0.001). There was a significant pericorneal injection only at day 14 (P = 0.002). There was no significant decreased hypopyon. CONCLUSION There was a significant reduction in IL-6 tear concentration and clinical improvement in moderate-to-severe bacterial corneal ulcers which got autologous PRP eye drop as adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prili Olda Fitriana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Suhardjo Pawiroranu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tri Wahyu Widayanti
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yohanes Widodo Wirohadidjojo
- Department of Dermato and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Indra Tri Mahayana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia,Address for correspondence: Dr. Indra Tri Mahayana, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada/Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Jl. Farmako, Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55284, Indonesia. E-mail: ;
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