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Tomioka Y, Ueno M, Yamamoto A, Numa K, Tanaka H, Kitazawa K, Toda M, Koizumi N, Tanaka M, Hamuro J, Sotozono C, Kinoshita S. Guttae Morphology After Cultured Corneal Endothelial Cell Transplant in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024:2821258. [PMID: 39052247 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.2718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Importance Whether guttae in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) can be removed by polishing without Descemet stripping and whether postoperative maintenance of reduced guttae can be achieved through cultured corneal endothelial cell (CEC) transplant therapy are critical issues to be addressed. Objective To investigate the decrease of guttae through polishing degenerated CECs and abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) without Descemet stripping and to observe the behavior of guttae following cultured CEC transplant. Design, Setting, and Participants This case series prospective observational study was conducted in a hospital outpatient clinic setting. Between December 2013 and January 2019, 22 eyes with corneal endothelial failure caused by FECD received cultured CEC transplant therapy at Kyoto Prefectural University Hospital. Of these, 15 eyes were consistently monitored at the same central corneal area during the preoperative phase, as well as in the early (within 1 year) and late (after 3 years) postoperative phases. The images from these phases were categorized into 3 groups: typical guttae, atypical guttae, and no guttae. Exposures Cultured CEC transplant therapy. Main Outcomes Proportion of guttae in the observable area was measured, comparing the early and late postoperative phases for each group. Results The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 69 years (range, 49-79 years). All 15 eyes exhibited the presence of confluent guttae preoperatively (100%). Among these, 3 of 15 eyes belonged to male patients. The early postoperative phase of guttae morphologies was classified into 3 groups: 5 eyes with typical guttae, 7 with atypical guttae, and 3 with no guttae. The decrease in the number of these guttae was achieved by surgical procedures. The median percentage of guttae in the typical guttae, atypical guttae, and no guttae groups was 41.8%, 44.4%, and 16.2%, respectively, in the early phase, and 42.2%, 38.2%, and 18.8%, respectively, in the late phase. Conclusions and Relevance The findings demonstrate that in some cases of FECD, guttae can be removed by scraping and polishing abnormal ECM and degenerated CECs, while preserving the Descemet membrane. Furthermore, cultured CEC transplant resulted in no increase in guttae for up to 3 years, providing insights into surgically eliminating guttae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasufumi Tomioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Morio Ueno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihisa Yamamoto
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Physics, Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- RIKEN Interdisciplinary Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences Program (iTHEMS), Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kohsaku Numa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Tanaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koji Kitazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Munetoyo Toda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Motomu Tanaka
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Physics, Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Institute for Physical Chemistry, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Junji Hamuro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Chie Sotozono
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kinoshita
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Saraceni PR, Miccoli A, Bada A, Taddei AR, Mazzonna M, Fausto AM, Scapigliati G, Picchietti S. Polystyrene nanoplastics as an ecotoxicological hazard: cellular and transcriptomic evidences on marine and freshwater in vitro teleost models. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173159. [PMID: 38761939 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173159] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The contamination of marine and freshwater environments by nanoplastics is considered a global threat for aquatic biota. Taking into account the most recent concentration range estimates reported globally and recognizing a knowledge gap in polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) ecotoxicology, the present work investigated the harmful effects of 20 nm and 80 nm PS-NPs, at increasing biological complexity, on the rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss RTG-2 and gilthead seabream Sparus aurata SAF-1 cell lines. Twenty nm PS-NPs exerted a greater cytotoxicity than 80 nm ones and SAF-1 were approximately 4-fold more vulnerable to PS-NPs than RTG-2. The engagement of PS-NPs with plasma membranes was accompanied by discernible uptake patterns and morphological alterations along with a nuclear translocation already within a 30-min exposure. Cells were structurally damaged only by the 20 nm PS-NPs in a time-dependent manner as indicated by distinctive features of the execution phase of the apoptotic cell death mechanism such as cell shrinkage, plasma membrane blebbing, translocation of phosphatidylserine to the outer leaflet of the cell membrane and DNA fragmentation. At last, functional analyses unveiled marked transcriptional impairment at both sublethal and lethal doses of 20 nm PS-NPs, with the latter impacting the "Steroid biosynthesis", "TGF-beta signaling pathway", "ECM-receptor interaction", "Focal adhesion", "Regulation of actin cytoskeleton" and "Protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum" pathways. Overall, a distinct ecotoxicological hazard of PS-NPs at environmentally relevant concentrations was thoroughly characterized on two piscine cell lines. The effects were demonstrated to depend on size, exposure time and model, emphasizing the need for a comparative evaluation of endpoints between freshwater and marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Saraceni
- Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Development (ENEA), Department of Sustainability, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - A Miccoli
- National Research Council, Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM), 60125 Ancona, Italy
| | - A Bada
- Dept. for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - A R Taddei
- Center of Large Equipments, Section of Electron Microscopy, University of Tuscia, Largo dell'Università Snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - M Mazzonna
- National Research Council, Institute for Biological Systems (ISB), 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - A M Fausto
- Dept. for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - G Scapigliati
- Dept. for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - S Picchietti
- Dept. for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), University of Tuscia, Largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy.
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De Piano M, Abicca I, Dinu V, Roszkowska AM, Micera A, Schiano-Lomoriello D. Expression of Hormones' Receptors in Human Corneal Endothelium from Fuchs' Dystrophy: A Possible Gender' Association. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3787. [PMID: 38999352 PMCID: PMC11242089 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Age and sex are the most significant risk of factors for advanced Fuchs dystrophy. Nevertheless, few data are available on the hormone's receptor pattern expressed in adult and advanced fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). We investigated the impact of gender, growth factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) regulatory proteins expressed by the dystrophic endothelia. Methods: Ten dystrophic endothelial tissues and 10 normal endothelial sheets (corneoscleral specimens; Eye Bank) were used for this characterization study. Hormones' receptors (ERα, AR, PR, SHBG), few growth factors (VEGFA, βNGF, TGFβ1), some ECM regulators (MMP1, MMP7) and few inflammatory cytokines (IFNγ, IL10) were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Results: ERα transcripts were significantly increased, AR and SHBG transcripts were decreased in Fuchs endothelia from female patients, and no changes were detected for PR transcripts. VEGFA, βNGF and TGFβ1 transcripts were upregulated in Fuchs' endothelia, but not significantly linked to gender. High MMP1 and low MMP7 transcripts' expression were detected in Fuchs' specimens, mainly in males than females. An increased IFNγ (Th1) transcript expression was observed in females than males, and a trend to increase for IL10 (Th2) transcripts was detected in males than females. Conclusions: Our findings clearly indicate that hormone receptors, growth factors and matrix mediators as well as a Th1 pathway are predominant in Fuchs' dystrophy, displaying a pattern of expression specific for the female phenotype. The differential expression of hormones' receptors and the Th1/Th2 ratio might prompt to new theories to be tested in vitro and in vivo models, such as the use of hormonal substitute for counteracting this endothelial cell lost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria De Piano
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Science, IRCCS-Fondazione Bietti, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Valentin Dinu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Carol Davila", 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anna Maria Roszkowska
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ophthalmology Clinic, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98124 Messina, Italy
- Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski University, 30-705 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alessandra Micera
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Science, IRCCS-Fondazione Bietti, 00184 Rome, Italy
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Yan J, Mehta S, Patel K, Dhupar N, Little N, Ong Tone S. Transcription factor 4 promotes increased corneal endothelial cellular migration by altering microtubules in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10276. [PMID: 38704483 PMCID: PMC11069521 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61170-8] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a complex corneal disease characterized by the progressive decline and morphological changes of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) that leads to corneal edema and vision loss. The most common mutation in FECD is an intronic CTG repeat expansion in transcription factor 4 (TCF4) that leads to its altered expression. Corneal endothelial wound healing occurs primarily through cell enlargement and migration, and FECD CECs have been shown to display increased migration speeds. In this study, we aim to determine whether TCF4 can promote cellular migration in FECD CECs. We generated stable CEC lines derived from FECD patients that overexpressed different TCF4 isoforms and investigated epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) expression, morphological analysis and cellular migration speeds. We found that full length TCF4-B isoform overexpression promotes cellular migration in FECD CECs in an EMT-independent manner. RNA-sequencing identified several pathways including the negative regulation of microtubules, with TUBB4A (tubulin beta 4A class IVa) as the top upregulated gene. TUBB4A expression was increased in FECD ex vivo specimens, and there was altered expression of cytoskeleton proteins, tubulin and actin, compared to normal healthy donor ex vivo specimens. Additionally, there was increased acetylation and detyrosination of microtubules in FECD supporting that microtubule stability is altered in FECD and could promote cellular migration. Future studies could be aimed at investigating if targeting the cytoskeleton and microtubules would have therapeutic potential for FECD by promoting cellular migration and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Yan
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Shanti Mehta
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Keya Patel
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Narisa Dhupar
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ness Little
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stephan Ong Tone
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center and Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M-wing, 1st Floor, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Numa K, Patel SK, Zhang ZA, Burton JB, Matsumoto A, Hughes JWB, Sotozono C, Schilling B, Desprez PY, Campisi J, Kitazawa K. Senescent characteristics of human corneal endothelial cells upon ultraviolet-A exposure. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:6673-6693. [PMID: 38683123 PMCID: PMC11087119 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205761] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to investigate the senescent phenotypes of human corneal endothelial cells (hCEnCs) upon treatment with ultraviolet (UV)-A. METHODS We assessed cell morphology, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, cell proliferation and expression of senescence markers (p16 and p21) in hCEnCs exposed to UV-A radiation, and senescent hCEnCs induced by ionizing radiation (IR) were used as positive controls. We performed RNA sequencing and proteomics analyses to compare gene and protein expression profiles between UV-A- and IR-induced senescent hCEnCs, and we also compared the results to non-senescent hCEnCs. RESULTS Cells exposed to 5 J/cm2 of UV-A or to IR exhibited typical senescent phenotypes, including enlargement, increased SA-β-gal activity, decreased cell proliferation and elevated expression of p16 and p21. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that 83.9% of the genes significantly upregulated and 82.6% of the genes significantly downregulated in UV-A-induced senescent hCEnCs overlapped with the genes regulated in IR-induced senescent hCEnCs. Proteomics also revealed that 93.8% of the proteins significantly upregulated in UV-A-induced senescent hCEnCs overlapped with those induced by IR. In proteomics analyses, senescent hCEnCs induced by UV-A exhibited elevated expression levels of several factors part of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. CONCLUSIONS In this study, where senescence was induced by UV-A, a more physiological stress for hCEnCs compared to IR, we determined that UV-A modulated the expression of many genes and proteins typically altered upon IR treatment, a more conventional method of senescence induction, even though UV-A also modulated specific pathways unrelated to IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohsaku Numa
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto 6020841, Japan
| | - Sandip Kumar Patel
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QR, UK
| | | | | | - Akifumi Matsumoto
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto 6020841, Japan
| | | | - Chie Sotozono
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto 6020841, Japan
| | | | - Pierre-Yves Desprez
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
- California Pacific Medical Center, Research Institute, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA
| | - Judith Campisi
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Koji Kitazawa
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto 6020841, Japan
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Murugan S, de Campos VS, Ghag SA, Ng M, Shyam R. Characterization of a Novel Mouse Model for Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:18. [PMID: 38587441 PMCID: PMC11005065 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.4.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a progressive blinding disorder, characterized by increased corneal endothelial excrescences (guttae), corneal endothelial cell loss, and edema. These symptoms are hypothesized to be caused by changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and mitochondrial dysfunction in the corneal endothelium. Despite this clinical and biological relevance, a comprehensive animal model that recapitulates all the major disease characteristics is currently unavailable. In this study, we develop such a model to improve our understanding of the signaling pathways involved in the FECD progression and develop strategies for early intervention. Method To generate a comprehensive FECD model, we generated a double mutant mouse bearing tamoxifen-inducible knockdown of Slc4a11 and the Col8a2 (Q455K) mutation. We performed optical coherence tomography (OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy using the Heidelberg Retinal Tomography 3 - Rostock Cornea module (HRT3-RCM) on the mice at 5 weeks of age before tamoxifen feeding to establish baseline values for corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, and test for the presence of guttae. We measured these parameters again post-tamoxifen treatment at 16 weeks of age. We collected corneas at 16 weeks to perform histopathology, immunofluorescence staining for tight junctions, adherens junctions, and oxidative stress. We evaluated endothelial pump function using a lactate assay. Results The double mutant tamoxifen-fed animals showed the presence of guttae, and displayed increased corneal thickness and decreased endothelial cell density. Endothelial cells showed altered morphology with disrupted adherens junctions and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS). Finally, we found that stromal lactate concentrations were elevated in the double mutant mice, indicative of compromised endothelial pump function. Conclusions Overall, this mouse model recapitulates all the important phenotypic features associated with FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subashree Murugan
- Vision Science Program, School of Optometry, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Viviane Souza de Campos
- Vision Science Program, School of Optometry, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Sachin Anil Ghag
- Vision Science Program, School of Optometry, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Matthew Ng
- Department of Biology, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Rajalekshmy Shyam
- Vision Science Program, School of Optometry, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, United States
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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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Liu JX, Chiang TL, Hung KF, Sun YC. Therapeutic future of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy: An ongoing way to explore. Taiwan J Ophthalmol 2024; 14:15-26. [PMID: 38654984 PMCID: PMC11034696 DOI: 10.4103/tjo.tjo-d-23-00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is one of the most common corneal diseases that causes loss of visual acuity in the world. FECD is a genetically and pathogenetically heterogeneous disease that results in the failure of corneal endothelial cells to maintain fluid balance and functional homeostasis of the cornea. Corneal edema, central guttae formation, and bullae development are common corneal pathologies. Currently, the mainstay of FECD treatment is surgery. However, limited sources of corneal graft and postsurgical complications remain problematic. In recent years, with advances in medical science and technology, there have been a few promising trials of new treatment modalities for FECD. In addition to new surgical methods, novel modalities can be classified into pharmacological-associated treatment, cell therapy-associated treatment, and gene therapy-associated treatment. In this article, our primary focus is on the most recent clinical trials related to FECD, and we present a stepwise approach to enhance FECD management and ultimately improve patient outcomes. We thoroughly searched for FECD clinical trials and reviewed the study designs, methodologies, and outcomes of each trial conducted within the past decade. It is imperative for physicians to stay up-to-date with these cutting-edge treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Xin Liu
- College of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Lin Chiang
- College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kai-Feng Hung
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Sun
- College of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taipei, Taiwan
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Qureshi S, Lee S, Steidl W, Ritzer L, Parise M, Chaubal A, Kumar V. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Disrupts Mitochondrial Bioenergetics, Dynamics and Causes Corneal Endothelial Cell Apoptosis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:18. [PMID: 37962528 PMCID: PMC10653263 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.14.18] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrial stress are independently associated with corneal endothelial cell (CEnC) loss in many corneal diseases, including Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). However, the role of ER stress in mitochondrial dysfunction contributing to CEnC apoptosis is unknown. The purpose of this study is to explore the crosstalk between ER and mitochondrial stress in CEnC. Methods Human corneal endothelial cell line (HCEnC-21T) and human corneal endothelial tissues were treated with ER stressor tunicamycin. ER stress-reducing chemical 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA) was used in HCEnC-21T after tunicamycin. Fuchs' corneal endothelial cell line (F35T) was used to determine differential activation of ER stress with respect to HCEnC-21T at the baseline. ER stress, mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic apoptotic, mitochondrial fission, and fusion proteins were determined using immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Mitochondrial bioenergetics were assessed by mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) loss and ATP production at 48 hours after tunicamycin. Mitochondria dynamics (shape, area, perimeter) were also analyzed at 24 hours using transmission electron microscopy. Results Treatment of HCEnC-21T cell line with tunicamycin activated three ER stress pathways (PERK-eIF2α-CHOP, IRE1α-XBP1, and ATF6), reduced cell viability, upregulated mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic apoptotic molecules (cleaved caspase 9, caspase 3, PARP, Bax, cytochrome C), downregulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein, initiated mitochondrial dysfunction by loss of MMP and lowering of ATP production, and caused mitochondrial swelling and fragmentation with increased expression of mitochondrial fission proteins (Fis1 and p-Drp1). Fuchs' CEnC (F35T) cell line also showed activation of the ER stress-related proteins (p-eIF2α, GRP78, CHOP, XBP1) compared to HCEnC-21T at the baseline. The 4-PBA ameliorated cell loss and reduced cleaved caspase 3 and 9, thereby rescuing tunicamycin-induced cell death but not mitochondrial bioenergetics in HCEnC-21T cell line. Conclusions Tunicamycin-induced ER stress disrupts mitochondrial bioenegetics, dynamics and contributes to the loss of CEnC viability. This novel study highlights the importance of ER-mitochondria crosstalk and its contribution to CEnCs apoptosis, seen in many corneal diseases, including FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Qureshi
- Eye and Vision Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Stephanie Lee
- Eye and Vision Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - William Steidl
- Eye and Vision Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Lukas Ritzer
- Eye and Vision Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Michael Parise
- Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - Ananya Chaubal
- Herricks High School, New Hyde Park, New York, United States
| | - Varun Kumar
- Eye and Vision Research Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
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10
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Chen X, Shi C, He M, Xiong S, Xia X. Endoplasmic reticulum stress: molecular mechanism and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:352. [PMID: 37709773 PMCID: PMC10502142 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01570-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) functions as a quality-control organelle for protein homeostasis, or "proteostasis". The protein quality control systems involve ER-associated degradation, protein chaperons, and autophagy. ER stress is activated when proteostasis is broken with an accumulation of misfolded and unfolded proteins in the ER. ER stress activates an adaptive unfolded protein response to restore proteostasis by initiating protein kinase R-like ER kinase, activating transcription factor 6, and inositol requiring enzyme 1. ER stress is multifaceted, and acts on aspects at the epigenetic level, including transcription and protein processing. Accumulated data indicates its key role in protein homeostasis and other diverse functions involved in various ocular diseases, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, achromatopsia, cataracts, ocular tumors, ocular surface diseases, and myopia. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms underlying the aforementioned ocular diseases from an ER stress perspective. Drugs (chemicals, neurotrophic factors, and nanoparticles), gene therapy, and stem cell therapy are used to treat ocular diseases by alleviating ER stress. We delineate the advancement of therapy targeting ER stress to provide new treatment strategies for ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyi Chen
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chaoran Shi
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Meihui He
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siqi Xiong
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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11
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Nakagawa T, Okumura N, Ikegawa M, Toyama Y, Nirasawa T, Mascarelli F, Vaitinadapoule H, Aouimeur I, He Z, Gain P, Thuret G, Koizumi N. Shotgun proteomics identification of proteins expressed in the Descemet's membrane of patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10401. [PMID: 37369713 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37104-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a slowly evolving, bilateral disease of the corneal endothelium, characterized by an abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the basement membrane (Descemet's membrane, DM). This results in the formation of small round excrescences, called guttae, and a progressive disappearance of endothelial cells. In the intermediate stage, the numerous guttae create significant optical aberrations, and in the late stage, the loss of endothelial function leads to permanent corneal edema. The molecular components of guttae have not been fully elucidated. In the current study, we conducted shotgun proteomics of the DMs, including guttae, obtained from patients with FECD and revealed that 32 proteins were expressed only in the FECD-DMs but not in the DMs of control subjects. Subsequent enrichment analyses identified associations with multiple ECM-related pathways. Immunostaining of flat-mounted DMs confirmed that 4 of the top 5 identified proteins (hemoglobin α, SRPX2, tenascin-C, and hemoglobin γδεβ) were expressed in FECD-DMs but not in non-FECD-DMs. Fibrinogen α was strongly expressed in FECD-DMs, but weakly expressed in non-FECD-DMs. We also demonstrated that matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) can display the in situ spatial distribution of biomolecules expressed in the DM, including the guttae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Nakagawa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan.
| | - Masaya Ikegawa
- Genomics, Proteomics and Biomedical Functions, Graduate School of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yumiko Toyama
- Genomics, Proteomics and Biomedical Functions, Graduate School of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Frederic Mascarelli
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, UMR S1138, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Hanielle Vaitinadapoule
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Ines Aouimeur
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Zhiguo He
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Philippe Gain
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), Faculty of Medicine, Health Innovation Campus, Jean Monnet University, Saint-Étienne, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
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12
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Ma DJ, Hwang JS, Noh KB, Oh SH, Kim KW, Shin YJ. Role of NADPH Oxidase 4 in Corneal Endothelial Cells Is Mediated by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Autophagy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1228. [PMID: 37371958 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061228] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human corneal-endothelial cells (hCEnCs) are located on the inner layer of the cornea. Injury to CEnCs leads to permanent corneal edema, requiring corneal transplantation. NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) has been reported to be implicated in the pathogenesis of CEnCs diseases. Thus, we investigated the role of NOX4 in CEnCs in this study. In an animal study, siRNA for NOX4 (siNOX4) or plasmid for NOX4 (pNOX4) was introduced into the corneal endothelium of rats by electroporation, using a square-wave electroporator (ECM830, Havard apparatus) to decrease or increase the expression of NOX4, respectively, and the rat corneas were cryoinjured through contact with a metal rod of 3 mm diameter frozen in liquid nitrogen for 10 min. The immunofluorescence staining of NOX4 and 8-OHdG showed that the levels of NOX4 and 8-OHdG were decreased in the siNOX4 group compared to the siControl, and increased in the pNOX4 group compared to the pControl at one week after treatment. Without cryoinjury, corneal opacity was more severe, and the density of CEnCs was lower, in pNOX4-treated rats compared to pControl. After cryoinjury, the corneas were more transparent, and the CEnC density was higher, in siNOX4-treated rats. The hCEnCs were cultured and transfected with siNOX4 and pNOX4. The silencing of NOX4 in hCEnCs resulted in a normal cell shape, higher viability, and higher proliferation rate than those transfected with the siControl, while NOX4 overexpression had the opposite effect. NOX4 overexpression increased the number of senescent cells and intracellular oxidative stress levels. NOX4 overexpression increased ATF4 and ATF6 levels, and nuclear translocation of XBP-1, which is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker, while the silencing of NOX4 had the opposite effect. Additionally, the mitochondrial membrane potential was hyperpolarized by the silencing of NOX4, and depolarized by NOX4 overexpression. The LC3II levels, a marker of autophagy, were decreased by the silencing of NOX4, and increased by NOX4 overexpression. In conclusion, NOX4 plays a pivotal role in the wound-healing and senescence of hCEnCs, by modulating oxidative stress, ER stress, and autophagy. The regulation of NOX4 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for regulating the homeostasis of CEnCs, and treating corneal-endothelial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Joong Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Bo Noh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Wook Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
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13
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Kim HJ, Hwang JS, Noh KB, Oh SH, Park JB, Shin YJ. A p-Tyr42 RhoA Inhibitor Promotes the Regeneration of Human Corneal Endothelial Cells by Ameliorating Cellular Senescence. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1186. [PMID: 37371916 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061186] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of treatment strategies for human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) disease is necessary because hCECs do not regenerate in vivo due to the properties that are similar to senescence. This study is performed to investigate the role of a p-Tyr42 RhoA inhibitor (MH4, ELMED Inc., Chuncheon) in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)- or H2O2-induced cellular senescence of hCECs. Cultured hCECs were treated with MH4. The cell shape, proliferation rate, and cell cycle phases were analyzed. Moreover, cell adhesion assays and immunofluorescence staining for F-actin, Ki-67, and E-cadherin were performed. Additionally, the cells were treated with TGF-β or H2O2 to induce senescence, and mitochondrial oxidative reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and NF-κB translocation were evaluated. LC3II/LC3I levels were determined using Western blotting to analyze autophagy. MH4 promotes hCEC proliferation, shifts the cell cycle, attenuates actin distribution, and increases E-cadherin expression. TGF-β and H2O2 induce senescence by increasing mitochondrial ROS levels and NF-κB translocation into the nucleus; however, this effect is attenuated by MH4. Moreover, TGF-β and H2O2 decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential and induce autophagy, while MH4 reverses these effects. In conclusion, MH4, a p-Tyr42 RhoA inhibitor, promotes the regeneration of hCECs and protects hCECs against TGF-β- and H2O2-induced senescence via the ROS/NF-κB/mitochondrial pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jung Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Bo Noh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Bong Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
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14
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Nakagawa T, Tokuda Y, Nakano M, Komori Y, Hanada N, Tourtas T, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Kruse F, Tashiro K, Koizumi N, Okumura N. RNA-Seq-based transcriptome analysis of corneal endothelial cells derived from patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8647. [PMID: 37244951 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35468-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most common inherited corneal disease. Fibrillar focal excrescences called guttae and corneal edema due to corneal endothelial cell death result in progressive vision loss. Multiple genetic variants have been reported, but the pathogenesis of FECD is not fully understood. In this study, we used RNA-Seq to analyze differential gene expression in the corneal endothelium obtained from patients with FECD. Differential expression analysis of transcriptomic profiles revealed that expression of 2366 genes (1092 upregulated and 1274 downregulated genes) was significantly altered in the corneal endothelium of patients with FECD compared to healthy subjects. Gene ontology analysis demonstrated an enrichment of genes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, response to oxidative stress, and apoptotic signaling. Several pathway analyses consistently indicated the dysregulation of ECM-associated pathways. Our differential gene expression findings support the previously proposed underlying mechanisms, including oxidative stress and apoptosis of endothelial cells, as well as the phenotypic clinical FECD hallmark of ECM deposits. Further investigation focusing on differentially expressed genes related to these pathways might be beneficial for elucidating mechanisms and developing novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Nakagawa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Yuichi Tokuda
- Department of Genomic Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masakazu Nakano
- Department of Genomic Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuya Komori
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Naoya Hanada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Theofilos Tourtas
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Friedrich Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kei Tashiro
- Department of Genomic Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, 610-0394, Japan.
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15
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Vijayalalitha R, Archita T, Juanitaa GR, Jayasuriya R, Amin KN, Ramkumar KM. Role of Long Non-Coding RNA in Regulating ER Stress Response to the Progression of Diabetic Complications. Curr Gene Ther 2023; 23:96-110. [PMID: 35927920 DOI: 10.2174/1566523222666220801141450] [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: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hyperglycemia damages the nerves and blood vessels, culminating in other vascular complications. Such complications enhance cytokine, oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. ER is the primary organelle where proteins are synthesised and attains confirmatory changes before its site of destination. Perturbation of ER homeostasis activates signaling sensors within its lumen, the unfolded protein response (UPR) that orchestrates ER stress and is extensively studied. Increased ER stress markers are reported in diabetic complications in addition to lncRNA that acts as an upstream marker inducing ER stress response. This review focuses on the mechanisms of lncRNA that regulate ER stress markers, especially during the progression of diabetic complications. Through this systemic review, we showcase the dysfunctional lncRNAs that act as a leading cause of ER stress response to the progression of diabetic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramanarayanan Vijayalalitha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Tca Archita
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - George Raj Juanitaa
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ravichandran Jayasuriya
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karan Naresh Amin
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kunka Mohanram Ramkumar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603 203, Tamil Nadu, India
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16
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Jalilian I, Muppala S, Ali M, Anderson JD, Phinney B, Salemi M, Wilmarth PA, Murphy CJ, Thomasy SM, Raghunathan V. Cell derived matrices from bovine corneal endothelial cells as a model to study cellular dysfunction. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109303. [PMID: 36343671 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109303] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a progressive corneal disease that impacts the structure and stiffness of the Descemet's membrane (DM), the substratum for corneal endothelial cells (CECs). These structural alterations of the DM could contribute to the loss of the CECs resulting in corneal edema and blindness. Oxidative stress and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathways have been implicated in endothelial cell loss and endothelial to mesenchymal transition of CECs in FECD. Ascorbic acid (AA) is found at high concentrations in FECD and its impact on CEC survival has been investigated. However, how TGF-β and AA effect the composition and rigidity of the CEC's matrix remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we investigated the effect of AA, TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 on the deposition, ultrastructure, stiffness, and composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by primary bovine corneal endothelial cells (BCECs). RESULTS Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy post-decellularization demonstrated a robust deposition and distinct structure of ECM in response to treatments. AFM measurements showed that the modulus of the matrix in BCECs treated with TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 was significantly lower than the controls. There was no difference in the stiffness of the matrix between the AA-treated cell and controls. Gene Ontology analysis of the proteomics results revealed that AA modulates the oxidative stress pathway in the matrix while TGF-β induces the expression of matrix proteins collagen IV, laminin, and lysyl oxidase homolog 1. CONCLUSIONS Molecular pathways identified in this study demonstrate the differential role of soluble factors in the pathogenesis of FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Santoshi Muppala
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Maryam Ali
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Johnathon D Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Brett Phinney
- Proteomics Core, University of California, Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Michelle Salemi
- Proteomics Core, University of California, Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Phillip A Wilmarth
- Proteomics Shared Resources, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - VijayKrishna Raghunathan
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77204, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77204, USA.
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17
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Sekhon AS, He B, Iovieno A, Yeung SN. Pathophysiology of Corneal Endothelial Cell Loss in Dry Eye Disease and Other Inflammatory Ocular Disorders. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:21-31. [PMID: 34678119 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1980808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dry eye disease (DED) and other inflammatory ocular disorders have been reported to be associated with decreased corneal endothelial cell density (CECD), however the mechanism of underlying endothelial cell loss remains unknown. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive literature search of English-written publications on dry eye disease, corneal endothelial cell loss, Sjögren's syndrome, and Graft Vs Host Disease (GVHD), to review the effects of DED and other inflammatory ocular surface conditions on CECD. RESULTS A total of 78 studies were included in our study. Loss of corneal neurotrophic support, cytotoxic stress, and a heightened immune response, all of which may occur secondarily to a common causative agent such as inflammation, are major contributors to reduced CECD. CONCLUSION More studies are needed to determine how the interrelated pathways of altered corneal nerve function and upregulated expression of inflammatory activity influence corneal endothelial cell loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amardeep S Sekhon
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bonnie He
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alfonso Iovieno
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sonia N Yeung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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18
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Mogre S, Blazanin N, Walsh H, Ibinson J, Minnich C, Andrew Hu CC, Glick AB. TGFβ1 regulates HRas-mediated activation of IRE1α through the PERK-RPAP2 axis in keratinocytes. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:958-971. [PMID: 35975910 PMCID: PMC9486931 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23453] [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: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGFβ1) is a critical regulator of tumor progression in response to HRas. Recently, TGFβ1 has been shown to trigger ER stress in many disease models; however, its role in oncogene-induced ER stress is unclear. Oncogenic HRas induces the unfolded protein response (UPR) predominantly via the Inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) pathway to initiate the adaptative responses to ER stress, with importance for both proliferation and senescence. Here, we show a role of the UPR sensor proteins IRE1α and (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) to mediate the tumor-suppressive roles of TGFβ1 in mouse keratinocytes expressing mutant forms of HRas. TGFβ1 suppressed IRE1α phosphorylation and activation by HRas both in in vitro and in vivo models while simultaneously activating the PERK pathway. However, the increase in ER stress indicated an uncoupling of ER stress and IRE1α activation by TGFβ1. Pharmacological and genetic approaches demonstrated that TGFβ1-dependent dephosphorylation of IRE1α was mediated by PERK through RNA Polymerase II Associated Protein 2 (RPAP2), a PERK-dependent IRE1α phosphatase. In addition, TGFβ1-mediated growth arrest in oncogenic HRas keratinocytes was partially dependent on PERK-induced IRE1α dephosphorylation and inactivation. Together, these results demonstrate a critical cross-talk between UPR proteins that is important for TGFβ1-mediated tumor suppressive responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saie Mogre
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicholas Blazanin
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hailey Walsh
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jack Ibinson
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chase Minnich
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chih-Chi Andrew Hu
- Center for Translational Research in Hematologic Malignancies, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Adam B Glick
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, USA
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19
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Dubchak E, Obasanmi G, Zeglinski MR, Granville DJ, Yeung SN, Matsubara JA. Potential role of extracellular granzyme B in wet age-related macular degeneration and fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:980742. [PMID: 36204224 PMCID: PMC9531149 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.980742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related ocular diseases are the leading cause of blindness in developed countries and constitute a sizable socioeconomic burden worldwide. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) are some of the most common age-related diseases of the retina and cornea, respectively. AMD is characterized by a breakdown of the retinal pigment epithelial monolayer, which maintains retinal homeostasis, leading to retinal degeneration, while FECD is characterized by degeneration of the corneal endothelial monolayer, which maintains corneal hydration status, leading to corneal edema. Both AMD and FECD pathogenesis are characterized by disorganized local extracellular matrix (ECM) and toxic protein deposits, with both processes linked to aberrant protease activity. Granzyme B (GrB) is a serine protease traditionally known for immune-mediated initiation of apoptosis; however, it is now recognized that GrB is expressed by a variety of immune and non-immune cells and aberrant extracellular localization of GrB substantially contributes to various age-related pathologies through dysregulated cleavage of ECM, tight junction, and adherens junction proteins. Despite growing recognition of GrB involvement in multiple age-related pathologies, its role in AMD and FECD remains poorly understood. This review summarizes the pathophysiology of, and similarities between AMD and FECD, outlines the current knowledge of the role of GrB in AMD and FECD, as well as hypothesizes putative contributions of GrB to AMD and FECD pathogenesis and highlights the therapeutic potential of pharmacologically inhibiting GrB as an adjunctive treatment for AMD and FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden Dubchak
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gideon Obasanmi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Matthew R. Zeglinski
- ICORD Centre and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, UBC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David J. Granville
- ICORD Centre and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, UBC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sonia N. Yeung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joanne A. Matsubara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Joanne A. Matsubara,
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Oliveira SD. Insights on the Gut-Mesentery-Lung Axis in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Poorly Investigated Crossroad. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:516-526. [PMID: 35296152 PMCID: PMC9050827 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.316236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening disease characterized by the hyperproliferation of vascular cells, including smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Hyperproliferative cells eventually obstruct the lung vasculature, leading to irreversible lesions that collectively drive pulmonary pressure to life-threatening levels. Although the primary cause of PAH is not fully understood, several studies have indicated it results from chronic pulmonary inflammation, such as observed in response to pathogens' infection. Curiously, infection by the intravascular parasite Schistosoma mansoni recapitulates several aspects of the widespread pulmonary inflammation that leads to development of chronic PAH. Globally, >200 million people are currently infected by Schistosoma spp., with about 5% developing PAH (Sch-PAH) in response to the parasite egg-induced obliteration and remodeling of the lung vasculature. Before their settling into the lungs, Schistosoma eggs are released inside the mesenteric veins, where they either cross the intestinal wall and disturb the gut microbiome or migrate to other organs, including the lungs and liver, increasing pressure. Spontaneous or surgical liver bypass via collateral circulation alleviates the pressure in the portal system; however, it also allows the translocation of pathogens, toxins, and antigens into the lungs, ultimately causing PAH. This brief review provides an overview of the gut-mesentery-lung axis during PAH, with a particular focus on Sch-PAH, and attempts to delineate the mechanism by which pathogen translocation might contribute to the onset of chronic pulmonary vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suellen Darc Oliveira
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
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21
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Shyam R, Ogando DG, Bonanno JA. Mitochondrial ROS in Slc4a11 KO Corneal Endothelial Cells Lead to ER Stress. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:878395. [PMID: 35557943 PMCID: PMC9086159 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.878395] [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: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies from Slc4a11 -/- mice have identified glutamine-induced mitochondrial dysfunction as a significant contributor toward oxidative stress, impaired lysosomal function, aberrant autophagy, and cell death in this Congenital Hereditary Endothelial Dystrophy (CHED) model. Because lysosomes are derived from endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi, we asked whether ER function is affected by mitochondrial ROS in Slc4a11 KO corneal endothelial cells. In mouse Slc4a11 -/- corneal endothelial tissue, we observed the presence of dilated ER and elevated expression of ER stress markers BIP and CHOP. Slc4a11 KO mouse corneal endothelial cells incubated with glutamine showed increased aggresome formation, BIP and GADD153, as well as reduced ER Ca2+ release as compared to WT. Induction of mitoROS by ETC inhibition also led to ER stress in WT cells. Treatment with the mitochondrial ROS quencher MitoQ, restored ER Ca2+ release and relieved ER stress markers in Slc4a11 KO cells in vitro. Systemic MitoQ also reduced BIP expression in Slc4a11 KO endothelium. We conclude that mitochondrial ROS can induce ER stress in corneal endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajalekshmy Shyam
- Vision Science Program, School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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22
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Erythropoietin Nanobots: Their Feasibility for the Controlled Release of Erythropoietin and Their Neuroprotective Bioequivalence in Central Nervous System Injury. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12073351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Erythropoietin (EPO) plays important roles in neuroprotection in central nervous system injury. Due to the limited therapeutic time window and coexistence of hematopoietic/extrahematopoietic receptors displaying heterogenic and phylogenetic differences, fast, targeted delivery agents, such as nanobots, are needed. To confirm the feasibility of EPO-nanobots (ENBs) as therapeutic tools, the authors evaluated controlled EPO release from ENBs and compared the neuroprotective bioequivalence of these substances after preconditioning sonication. Methods: ENBs were manufactured by a nanospray drying technique with preconditioning sonication. SH-SY5Y neuronal cells were cotreated with thapsigargin and either EPO or ENBs before cell viability, EPO receptor activation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related pathway deactivation were determined over 24 h. Results: Preconditioning sonication (50–60 kHz) for 1 h increased the cumulative EPO release from the ENBs (84% versus 25% at 24 h). Between EPO and ENBs at 24 h, both neuronal cell viability (both > 65% versus 15% for thapsigargin alone) and the expression of the proapoptotic/apoptotic biomolecular markers JAK2, PDI, PERK, GRP78, ATF6, CHOP, TGF-β, and caspase-3 were nearly the same or similar. Conclusion: ENBs controlled EPO release in vitro after preconditioning sonication, leading to neuroprotection similar to that of EPO at 24 h.
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Wang Y, Jin C, Tian H, Xu J, Chen J, Hu S, Li Q, Lu L, Ou Q, Xu GT, Cui H. CHIR99021 balance TGFβ1 induced human corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition to favor corneal endothelial cell proliferation. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:108939. [PMID: 35150734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) play a major role in the maintenance of stromal hydration via the barrier and pump function for clear vision. Adult CEC cannot regenerate after injury. CECs cultured in vitro can undergo mitosis but may undergo corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EnMT) and lose their endothelial characteristics. In this study, we examined the effects of CHIR99201 on transforming growth factor beta-1(TGFβ1)-induced EnMT in human CEC (hCECs) lines. CHIR99021 kept hCECs in the hexagonal shape and could downregulate the EnMT markers alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin (FN1), meanwhile maintained the hCECs function markers Na+/K+-ATPase and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at levels comparable to those in the normal control. Interestingly, we found that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 at appropriate concentrations would significantly promote the proliferation and migration of hCECs. These effects may be related to the inhibition of RhoA or Rac1, as well as the activation of Wnt and Erk pathway, with a calcium homeostasis. Our findings indicate that CHIR99021 inhibit EnMT and that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 may provide new ideas for corneal endothelial regeneration and wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Shuqin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongping Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China.
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Sun X, Gao X, Mu BK, Wang Y. Understanding the role of corneal biomechanics-associated genetic variants by bioinformatic analyses. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 42:981-988. [PMID: 34642840 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-02081-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze functions of corneal biomechanical properties (CBP)-related variants as corneal resistance factor (CRF) and corneal hysteresis (CH). METHODS Related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genes were identified from NHGRI-EBI GWAS catalog, GWASdb v2 and possible data in published studies. HaploReg v4.1 was used to find linkage SNPs. Functional annotations were performed by GWAVA, CADD and RegulomeDB. GTEx Portal database was used to find out expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) association. Enrichr was used to annotate the function of GWAS gene and the associated signal pathway. STING (v11.0) database was utilized for protein interaction and network construction. RESULTS The integration of 302 CH-associated and 420 CRF-associated lead SNPs has produced 531 CBP-associated lead SNPs. A total of 5,324 proxy variants identified using the HaploReg v4.1 and lead SNPs were functionally annotated. Based on the threshold (CADD ≥ 10, GWAVA ≥ 0.4 and RegulomeDB < rank 3), 23 prioritized putative regulatory SNPs were identified. Eight prioritized eQTL variants (rs75203695, rs34861673, rs846766, rs11024102, rs1377416, rs3829492, rs9934438 and rs197912) were found with strong potential of CBP regulation. It was indicated that CBP-associated genes were significantly enriched in extracellular matrix receptor interaction pathway, closely related to the phenotype of corneal dystrophy and keratoconus. COL1A1, SMAD3, BMP4 and RUNX2 occupied the core position in the co-expression network. CONCLUSIONS Data integrative analysis can evaluate CBP variations and explore collagen and extracellular matrix pathways in CBP regulation, which is a promising tool to investigate biological process of corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Sun
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Bo-Kun Mu
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. .,Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China. .,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China.
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Kumar V, Jurkunas UV. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Mitophagy in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Cells 2021; 10:1888. [PMID: 34440658 PMCID: PMC8392447 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a genetically complex, heterogenous, age-related degenerative disease of corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs), occurring in the fifth decade of life with a higher incidence in females. It is characterized by extracellular matrix (ECM) protein deposition called corneal guttae, causing light glare and visual complaints in patients. Corneal transplantation is the only treatment option for FECD patients, which imposes a substantial socioeconomic burden. In FECD, CEnCs exhibit stress-induced senescence, oxidative stress, DNA damage, heightened reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial damage, and dysfunction as well as sustained endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Among all of these, mitochondrial dysfunction involving altered mitochondrial bioenergetics and dynamics plays a critical role in FECD pathogenesis. Extreme stress initiates mitochondrial damage, leading to activation of autophagy, which involves clearance of damaged mitochondria called auto(mito)phagy. In this review, we discuss the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy in FECD. This will provide insights into a novel mechanism of mitophagy in post-mitotic ocular cell loss and help us explore the potential treatment options for FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Kumar
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ula V. Jurkunas
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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26
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Català P, Thuret G, Skottman H, Mehta JS, Parekh M, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Collin RWJ, Nuijts RMMA, Ferrari S, LaPointe VLS, Dickman MM. Approaches for corneal endothelium regenerative medicine. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100987. [PMID: 34237411 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The state of the art therapy for treating corneal endothelial disease is transplantation. Advances in the reproducibility and accessibility of surgical techniques are increasing the number of corneal transplants, thereby causing a global deficit of donor corneas and leaving 12.7 million patients with addressable visual impairment. Approaches to regenerate the corneal endothelium offer a solution to the current tissue scarcity and a treatment to those in need. Methods for generating corneal endothelial cells into numbers that could address the current tissue shortage and the possible strategies used to deliver them have now become a therapeutic reality with clinical trials taking place in Japan, Singapore and Mexico. Nevertheless, there is still a long way before such therapies are approved by regulatory bodies and become clinical practice. Moreover, acellular corneal endothelial graft equivalents and certain drugs could provide a treatment option for specific disease conditions without the need of donor tissue or cells. Finally, with the emergence of gene modulation therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease, it would be possible to treat presymptomatic patients or those presenting early symptoms, drastically reducing the need for donor tissue. It is necessary to understand the most recent developments in this rapidly evolving field to know which conditions could be treated with which approach. This article provides an overview of the current and developing regenerative medicine therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease and provides the necessary guidance and understanding towards the treatment of corneal endothelial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pere Català
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging of Corneal Graft, BiiGC, Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint Etienne, Saint Etienne, France; Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University Singapore Medical School, Singapore; Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK; The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy; Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Rob W J Collin
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rudy M M A Nuijts
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Liu X, Zheng T, Zhao C, Zhang Y, Liu H, Wang L, Liu P. Genetic mutations and molecular mechanisms of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. EYE AND VISION 2021; 8:24. [PMID: 34130750 PMCID: PMC8204469 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-021-00246-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy is a hereditary disease and the most frequent cause of corneal transplantation in the worldwide. Its main clinical signs are an accelerated decrease in the number of endothelial cells, thickening of Descemet’s membrane and formation of guttae in the extracellular matrix. The cornea’s ability to maintain stromal dehydration is impaired, causing painful epithelial bullae and loss of vision at the point when the amount of corneal endothelial cells cannot be compensated. At present, apart from corneal transplantation, there is no other effective treatment that prevents blindness. Main text In this review, we first summarized the mutations of COL8A2, TCF4, TCF8, SLC4A11 and AGBL1 genes in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. The molecular mechanisms associated with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, such as endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response pathway, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysregulation pathway, apoptosis pathway, mitophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway, RNA toxicity and repeat-associated non-ATG translation, and other pathogenesis, were then explored. Finally, we discussed several potential treatments related to the pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, which may be the focus of future research. Conclusions The pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy is very complicated. Currently, corneal transplantation is an important method in the treatment of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. It is necessary to continuously explore the pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy and establish the scientific foundations for the development of next-generation corneal therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuerui Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tao Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chuchu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hanruo Liu
- The Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
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Watanabe S, Oie Y, Miki A, Soma T, Koh S, Kawasaki S, Tsujikawa M, Jhanji V, Nishida K. Correlation Between Angle Parameters and Central Corneal Thickness in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Cornea 2021; 39:540-545. [PMID: 31842041 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000002220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the correlation between anterior chamber parameters and central corneal thickness (CCT) or peripheral corneal thickness (PCT) in patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. METHODS This case-control study included 20 eyes from 20 patients with FECD and 31 eyes from 31 patients with healthy corneas. CCT was measured as an indicator of FECD severity. Anterior chamber angle parameters, including trabecular-iris angle (TIA500) and angle opening distance (AOD500), were measured as an indicator of peripheral anterior chamber morphology. We also analyzed PCT and lens vault (LV). The relationships between CCT or PCT and anterior chamber parameters were also analyzed in patients with FECD. RESULTS Patients with FECD had a larger CCT (593.9 ± 54.6 μm vs. 533.0 ± 25.4 μm, P < 0.001), smaller TIA500 (21.8 ± 9.9 vs. 32.5 ± 11.2 degrees, P = 0.002), smaller AOD500 (0.21 ± 0.11 vs. 0.34 ± 0.18 mm, P = 0.002), and greater LV (0.60 ± 0.27 vs. 0.40 ± 0.29 mm, P = 0.02) than control subjects. In patients with FECD, CCT was negatively correlated with the angle parameters TIA500 (R = 0.29, P = 0.009) and AOD500 (R = 0.19, P = 0.03). There were no significant correlations between PCT and TIA500 (R = 0.008, P = 0.29) or AOD500 (R = 0.007, P = 0.29). There were also no significant correlations between CCT and LV (R = 0.02, P = 0.55). CONCLUSIONS Larger CCT was significantly associated with narrower anterior chamber angle width, but not with LV. We showed that the severity of FECD is associated with angle chamber morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Watanabe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Yoshinori Oie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Atsuya Miki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Takeshi Soma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Shizuka Koh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Satoshi Kawasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Motokazu Tsujikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; and
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29
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Ong Tone S, Kocaba V, Böhm M, Wylegala A, White TL, Jurkunas UV. Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy: The vicious cycle of Fuchs pathogenesis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 80:100863. [PMID: 32438095 PMCID: PMC7648733 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most common primary corneal endothelial dystrophy and the leading indication for corneal transplantation worldwide. FECD is characterized by the progressive decline of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) and the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM) excrescences in Descemet's membrane (DM), called guttae, that lead to corneal edema and loss of vision. FECD typically manifests in the fifth decades of life and has a greater incidence in women. FECD is a complex and heterogeneous genetic disease where interaction between genetic and environmental factors results in cellular apoptosis and aberrant ECM deposition. In this review, we will discuss a complex interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and exogenous factors in inciting oxidative stress, auto(mito)phagy, unfolded protein response, and mitochondrial dysfunction during CEC degeneration. Specifically, we explore the factors that influence cellular fate to undergo apoptosis, senescence, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These findings will highlight the importance of abnormal CEC-DM interactions in triggering the vicious cycle of FECD pathogenesis. We will also review clinical characteristics, diagnostic tools, and current medical and surgical management options for FECD patients. These new paradigms in FECD pathogenesis present an opportunity to develop novel therapeutics for the treatment of FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Ong Tone
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Myriam Böhm
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Adam Wylegala
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tomas L White
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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Price MO, Mehta JS, Jurkunas UV, Price FW. Corneal endothelial dysfunction: Evolving understanding and treatment options. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 82:100904. [PMID: 32977001 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is exquisitely designed to protect the eye while transmitting and focusing incoming light. Precise control of corneal hydration by the endothelial cell layer that lines the inner surface of the cornea is required for optimal transparency, and endothelial dysfunction or damage can result in corneal edema and visual impairment. Advances in corneal transplantation now allow selective replacement of dysfunctional corneal endothelium, providing rapid visual rehabilitation. A series of technique improvements have minimized complications and various adaptations allow use even in eyes with complicated anatomy. While selective endothelial keratoplasty sets a very high standard for safety and efficacy, a shortage of donor corneas in many parts of the world restricts access, prompting a search for alternatives. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the potential for self-recovery after removal of dysfunctional central endothelium in patients with healthy peripheral endothelium. Various approaches to using cultured human corneal endothelial cells are also in clinical trials; these aim to multiply cells from a single donor cornea for use in potentially hundreds of patients. Pre-clinical studies are underway with induced pluripotent stem cells, endothelial stem cell regeneration, gene therapy, anti-sense oligonucleotides, and various biologic/pharmacologic approaches designed to treat, prevent, or retard corneal endothelial dysfunction. The availability of more therapeutic options will hopefully expand access around the world while also allowing treatment to be more precisely tailored to each individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne O Price
- Cornea Research Foundation of America, 9002 N. Meridian St., Suite 212, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave #08-00, 168751, Singapore
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francis W Price
- Price Vision Group, 9002 N. Meridian St., Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Matthaei M, Hribek A, Clahsen T, Bachmann B, Cursiefen C, Jun AS. Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy: Clinical, Genetic, Pathophysiologic, and Therapeutic Aspects. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2020; 5:151-175. [PMID: 31525145 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-091718-014852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a bilateral corneal endothelial disorder and the most common cause of corneal transplantation worldwide. Professor Ernst Fuchs described the first 13 cases of FECD more than 100 years ago. Since then, we have seen far-reaching progress in its diagnosis and treatment. In the field of diagnostics, new technologies enable the development of more accurate classification systems and the more detailed breakdown of the genetic basis of FECD. Laboratory studies help in deciphering the molecular pathomechanisms. The development of minimally invasive surgical techniques leads to a continuous improvement of the postoperative result. This review highlights and discusses clinical, genetic, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic aspects of this common and important corneal disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Matthaei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; , , , ,
| | - Agathe Hribek
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; , , , ,
| | - Thomas Clahsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; , , , ,
| | - Björn Bachmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; , , , ,
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; , , , ,
| | - Albert S Jun
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA;
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Eghrari AO, Rasooly MM, Fliotsos MJ, Kinard J, Odozor O, Cunningham D, Bishop RJ, Guerrerio AL, Frischmeyer-Guerrerio PA. Corneal thinning and cornea guttata in patients with mutations in TGFB2. Can J Ophthalmol 2020; 55:336-341. [PMID: 32307099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjo.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human genome-wide association studies and animal models suggest a role for TGFB2 in contributing to the corneal thickness phenotype. No specific mutations, however, have been reported in this gene that affect corneal thickness. We sought to determine if haploinsufficiency of TGFB2 in humans associated with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4 is associated with corneal thinning. DESIGN Observational cohort study of families with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4, caused specifically by TGFB2 mutations, in a tertiary care setting. PARTICIPANTS Three probands with pathogenic mutations in TGFB2 and family members underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination. METHODS Clinical assessment included Scheimpflug imaging, specular microscopy, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. We measured visual acuity, axial length, refractive error, and central corneal thickness. RESULTS Clinical evaluation of 2 probands identified corneal thinning and cornea guttata, despite a young age and distinct mutations in TGFB2 (c.905G>A, p.Arg302His; c.988C>A, p.Arg330Ser). In the third family, corneal thinning co-segregated with a TGFB2 mutation (c.1103G>A, p.Gly368Glu), although without apparent guttae. CONCLUSIONS In this series, participants with TGFB2 mutations associated with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4 demonstrated decreased corneal thickness, and in 2 cases with splice site mutations, also demonstrated cornea guttata. The data demonstrate the importance of considering distinct phenotype-genotype correlations within this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen O Eghrari
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | | | - Michael J Fliotsos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jessica Kinard
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Obinna Odozor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Denise Cunningham
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Rachel J Bishop
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Hu M, Crossman D, Prasain JK, Miller MA, Serra RA. Transcriptomic Profiling of DAF-7/TGFβ Pathway Mutants in C. elegans. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E288. [PMID: 32182864 PMCID: PMC7140792 DOI: 10.3390/genes11030288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta superfamily encompasses a large family of ligands that are well conserved across many organisms. They are regulators of a number of physiological and pathological processes. The model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been instrumental in identifying key components of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) pathway. In C. elegans, the TGFβ homolog DAF-7 signals through the DAF-1 Type I and DAF-4 Type II receptors to phosphorylate downstream R-SMADs DAF-8 and DAF-14. These R-SMADs translocate into the nucleus to inhibit Co-SMAD DAF-3. Many of the roles of the canonical DAF-7 pathway, involving both DAF-1 and DAF-3, have been identified using targeted genetic studies. Few have assessed the global transcriptomic changes in response to these genes, especially in adult animals. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing on wild type, daf-1, and daf-1; daf-3 adult hermaphrodites. To assess the overall trends of the data, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed gene ontology analysis to identify the types of downstream genes that are differentially expressed. Hierarchical clustering showed that the daf-1; daf-3 double mutants are transcriptionally more similar to wild type than daf-1 mutants. Analysis of the DEGs showed a disproportionally high number of genes whose expression is increased in daf-1 mutants, suggesting that DAF-1 acts as a general repressor of gene expression in wild type animals. Gene ontology analysis of the DEGs produced many significantly enriched terms, including Molting Cycle, Response to Topologically Incorrect Protein, and Response to Biotic Stimulus. Understanding the direct and indirect targets of the DAF-7 TGFβ pathway through this RNA-seq dataset can provide insight into novel roles of the multifunctional signaling pathway, as well as identify novel genes that may participate in previously reported functions of TGFβ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhan Hu
- Department of Cell Development and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (M.A.M.); (R.A.S.)
| | - David Crossman
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Jeevan K. Prasain
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Michael A. Miller
- Department of Cell Development and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (M.A.M.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Rosa A. Serra
- Department of Cell Development and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (M.A.M.); (R.A.S.)
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Stauffer WT, Blackwood EA, Azizi K, Kaufman RJ, Glembotski CC. The ER Unfolded Protein Response Effector, ATF6, Reduces Cardiac Fibrosis and Decreases Activation of Cardiac Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041373. [PMID: 32085622 PMCID: PMC7073073 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Activating transcription factor-6 α (ATF6) is one of the three main sensors and effectors of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response and, as such, it is critical for protecting the heart and other tissues from a variety of environmental insults and disease states. In the heart, ATF6 has been shown to protect cardiac myocytes. However, its roles in other cell types in the heart are unknown. Here we show that ATF6 decreases the activation of cardiac fibroblasts in response to the cytokine, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), which can induce fibroblast trans-differentiation into a myofibroblast phenotype through signaling via the TGFβ–Smad pathway. ATF6 activation suppressed fibroblast contraction and the induction of α smooth muscle actin (αSMA). Conversely, fibroblasts were hyperactivated when ATF6 was silenced or deleted. ATF6 thus represents a novel inhibitor of the TGFβ–Smad axis of cardiac fibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston T. Stauffer
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University Heart Institute, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA; (W.T.S.); (E.A.B.); (K.A.)
| | - Erik A. Blackwood
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University Heart Institute, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA; (W.T.S.); (E.A.B.); (K.A.)
| | - Khalid Azizi
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University Heart Institute, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA; (W.T.S.); (E.A.B.); (K.A.)
| | - Randal J. Kaufman
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92161, USA
| | - Christopher C. Glembotski
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University Heart Institute, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182, USA; (W.T.S.); (E.A.B.); (K.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-619-594-2958
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Shetty R, Naidu JR, Nair AP, Vaidya TA, D'Souza S, Matalia H, Deshpande V, Sethu S, Ghosh A, Chakrabarty K. Distinct ocular surface soluble factor profile in human corneal dystrophies. Ocul Surf 2019; 18:237-248. [PMID: 31756391 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal dystrophies (CD) are classified as rare eye diseases that results in visual impairment and requires corneal transplant in advanced stages. Ocular surface inflammatory status in different types of CD remains underexplored. Hence, we studied the levels of tear soluble factors in the tears of patients with various types of corneal dystrophies. METHODS 17 healthy subjects and 30 CD subjects (including epithelial, stromal and endothelial CD) were included in the study. Schirmer's strips were used to collect the tear fluid in all subjects. 27 soluble factors including cytokines, chemokines, soluble cell adhesion molecules and growth factors were measured in the eluted tears by multiplex ELISA or single analyte sandwich ELISA. RESULTS Percentages of subjects with detectable levels of tear soluble factors were significantly higher in CD compared to controls. Significant higher level of IL-2 was observed in both epithelial and stromal CD. IL-4, TGFβ1 and IgE were significantly higher in stromal CD. VCAM, IL-13 and Fractalkine were significantly elevated in epithelial and macular CD. IL-1α, IL-8, IL-12, ANG, Eotaxin, MCP1, RANTES, ICAM1, L-selectin and P-selectin were significantly higher in epithelial CD. TGFBIp was significantly elevated in lattice CD and endothelial CD. CONCLUSION Distinct set of the tear soluble factors were dysregulated in various types of CD. Increase in tear inflammatory factors was observed in majority of the CD subjects depending on their sub-types. This suggests a plausible role of aberrant inflammation in CD pathobiology. Hence, modulating inflammation could be a potential strategy in improving the prognosis of CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Shetty
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru, India
| | - Jagadeesh R Naidu
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Tanuja Arun Vaidya
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sharon D'Souza
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru, India
| | - Himanshu Matalia
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru, India
| | - Vrushali Deshpande
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | - Swaminathan Sethu
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.
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TGF-β Signaling in Cellular Senescence and Aging-Related Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205002. [PMID: 31658594 PMCID: PMC6834140 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is broadly defined as the functional decline that occurs in all body systems. The accumulation of senescent cells is considered a hallmark of aging and thought to contribute to the aging pathologies. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates a myriad of cellular processes and has important roles in embryonic development, physiological tissue homeostasis, and various pathological conditions. TGF-β exerts potent growth inhibitory activities in various cell types, and multiple growth regulatory mechanisms have reportedly been linked to the phenotypes of cellular senescence and stem cell aging in previous studies. In addition, accumulated evidence has indicated a multifaceted association between TGF-β signaling and aging-associated disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, muscle atrophy, and obesity. The findings regarding these diseases suggest that the impairment of TGF-β signaling in certain cell types and the upregulation of TGF-β ligands contribute to cell degeneration, tissue fibrosis, inflammation, decreased regeneration capacity, and metabolic malfunction. While the biological roles of TGF-β depend highly on cell types and cellular contexts, aging-associated changes are an important additional context which warrants further investigation to better understand the involvement in various diseases and develop therapeutic options. The present review summarizes the relationships between TGF-β signaling and cellular senescence, stem cell aging, and aging-related diseases.
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Wieben ED, Baratz KH, Aleff RA, Kalari KR, Tang X, Maguire LJ, Patel SV, Fautsch MP. Gene Expression and Missplicing in the Corneal Endothelium of Patients With a TCF4 Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion Without Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3636-3643. [PMID: 31469403 PMCID: PMC6716950 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose CTG trinucleotide repeat (TNR) expansion in an intron of the TCF4 gene is the most common genetic variant associated with Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). Although several mechanisms have been implicated in the disease process, their exact pathophysiologic importance is unclear. To understand events leading from TCF4 TNR expansion to disease phenotype, we characterized splicing, gene expression, and exon sequence changes in a rare cohort of patients with TNR expansions but no phenotypic FECD (RE+/FECD-). Methods Corneal endothelium and blood were collected from patients undergoing endothelial keratoplasty for non-FECD corneal edema. Total RNA was isolated from corneal endothelial tissue (n = 3) and used for RNASeq. Gene splicing and expression was assessed by Mixture of Isoforms (MISO) and MAP-RSeq software. Genomic DNA was isolated from blood mononuclear cells and used for whole genome exome sequencing. Base calling was performed using Illumina's Real-Time Analysis. Results Three genes (MBNL1, KIF13A, AKAP13) that were previously identified as misspliced in patients with a CTG TNR expansion and FECD disease (RE+/FECD+) were found normally spliced in RE+/FECD- samples. Gene expression differences in pathways associated with the innate immune response, cell signaling (e.g., TGFβ, WNT), and cell senescence markers were also identified between RE+/FECD- and RE+/FECD+ groups. No consistent genetic variants were identified in RE+/FECD- patient exomes. Conclusions Identification of novel splicing patterns and differential gene expression in RE+/FECD- samples provides new insights and more relevant gene targets that may be protective against FECD disease in vulnerable patients with TCF4 CTG TNR expansions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D. Wieben
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Keith H. Baratz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Ross A. Aleff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Krishna R. Kalari
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Xiaojia Tang
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics and Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Leo J. Maguire
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Sanjay V. Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Michael P. Fautsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
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Miyai T, Vasanth S, Melangath G, Deshpande N, Kumar V, Benischke AS, Chen Y, Price MO, Price FW, Jurkunas UV. Activation of PINK1-Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy Degrades Mitochondrial Quality Control Proteins in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 189:2061-2076. [PMID: 31361992 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelium (CE) is a monolayer of mitochondria-rich cells, critical for maintaining corneal transparency compatible with clear vision. Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a heterogeneous, genetically complex disorder, where oxidative stress plays a key role in the rosette formation during the degenerative loss of CE. Increased mitochondrial fragmentation along with excessive mitophagy activation has been detected in FECD; however, the mechanism of aberrant mitochondrial dynamics in CE cell loss is poorly understood. Here, the role of oxidative stress in mitophagy activation in FECD is investigated. Immunoblotting of FECD ex vivo specimens revealed an accumulation of PINK1 and phospho-Parkin (Ser65) along with loss of total Parkin and total Drp1. Similarly, modeling of rosette formation with menadione (MN), led to phospho-Parkin accumulation in fragmented mitochondria resulting in mitophagy-induced mitochondrial clearance, albeit possibly in a PINK1-independent manner. Loss of PINK1, phospho-Drp1, and total Drp1 was prominent after MN-induced oxidative stress, but not after mitochondrial depolarization by carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone. Moreover, MN-induced mitophagy led to degradation of Parkin along with sequestration of Drp1 and PINK1 that was rescued by mitophagy inhibition. This study shows that in FECD, intracellular oxidative stress induces Parkin-mediated mitochondrial fragmentation where endogenous Drp1 and PINK1 are sequestered and degraded by mitophagy during degenerative loss of post-mitotic cells of ocular tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Miyai
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shivakumar Vasanth
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Geetha Melangath
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Neha Deshpande
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Varun Kumar
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anne-Sophie Benischke
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yuming Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Opthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Barrientez B, Nicholas SE, Whelchel A, Sharif R, Hjortdal J, Karamichos D. Corneal injury: Clinical and molecular aspects. Exp Eye Res 2019; 186:107709. [PMID: 31238077 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Currently, over 10 million people worldwide are affected by corneal blindness. Corneal trauma and disease can cause irreversible distortions to the normal structure and physiology of the cornea often leading to corneal transplantation. However, donors are in short supply and risk of rejection is an ever-present concern. Although significant progress has been made in recent years, the wound healing cascade remains complex and not fully understood. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are currently at the apex of investigation in the pursuit of novel corneal therapeutics. This review uniquely integrates the clinical and cellular aspects of both corneal trauma and disease and provides a comprehensive view of the most recent findings and potential therapeutics aimed at restoring corneal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brayden Barrientez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Sarah E Nicholas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Amy Whelchel
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Rabab Sharif
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Jesper Hjortdal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
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Abstract
Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a common disease resulting from corneal endothelial cell dysfunction. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion with incomplete penetrance, and with a female bias. Approximately half of cases occur sporadically, and the remainder are familial. Early and late-onset forms of the disease exist. A review of the literature has revealed more than 15 genes harbouring mutations and/or single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with FECD. The proteins encoded by these genes cover a wide range of endothelial function, including transcription regulation, DNA repair, mitochondrial DNA mutations, targeting of proteins to the cell membrane, deglutamylation of proteins, extracellular matrix secretion, formation of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix junctions, water pump, and apoptosis. These genetic variations will form the platform for the further understanding of the pathological basis of the disease, and the development of targeted treatments. This review aims to summarise known genetic variations associated with FECD, discuss any known molecular effects of the variations, how these provide opportunities for targeted therapies, and what therapies are currently in development.
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Nanda GG, Alone DP. REVIEW: Current understanding of the pathogenesis of Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. Mol Vis 2019; 25:295-310. [PMID: 31263352 PMCID: PMC6571125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most prominent reason for corneal-endothelial transplantations across the globe. The disease pathophysiology manifests through a combination of various genetic and non-heritable factors. This review provides a comprehensive list of known genetic players that cause FECD, and discusses the prominent pathological features that participate in disease progression, such as channel dysfunction, abnormal extracellular matrix deposition, RNA toxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Although current practices to correct visual acuity involve surgical intervention, this review also discusses the scope of various non-surgical therapeutics to remedy FECD.
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Hori J, Yamaguchi T, Keino H, Hamrah P, Maruyama K. Immune privilege in corneal transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 72:100758. [PMID: 31014973 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most successful solid organ transplantation performed in humans. The extraordinary success of orthotopic corneal allografts, in both humans and experimental animals, is related to the phenomenon of "immune privilege". Inflammation is self-regulated to preserve ocular functions because the eye has immune privilege. At present, three major mechanisms are considered to provide immune privilege in corneal transplantation: 1) anatomical, cellular, and molecular barriers in the cornea; 2) tolerance related to anterior chamber-associated immune deviation and regulatory T cells; and 3) an immunosuppressive intraocular microenvironment. This review describes the mechanisms of immune privilege that have been elucidated from animal models of ocular inflammation, especially those involving corneal transplantation, and its relevance for the clinic. An update on molecular, cellular, and neural interactions in local and systemic immune regulation is provided. Therapeutic strategies for restoring immune privilege are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Hori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8603, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tama-Nagayama Hospital, 1-7-1 Nagayama, Tama, Tokyo, 206-8512, Japan.
| | - Takefumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, 5-11-13 Sugano, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba, 272-8513, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Keino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, 6-20-2 Shinkawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, 181-8611, Japan
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Kazuichi Maruyama
- Department of Innovative Visual Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Yazu H, Yamaguchi T, Tsubota K, Shimazaki J. Clinical Factors for Rapid Endothelial Cell Loss After Corneal Transplantation: Novel Findings From the Aqueous Humor. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-019-00204-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Alka K, Casey JR. Ophthalmic Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs as a Therapy for Corneal Dystrophies Caused by SLC4A11 Mutation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:4258-4267. [PMID: 30140924 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose SLC4A11 is a plasma membrane protein of corneal endothelial cells. Some mutations of the SLC4A11 gene result in SLC4A11 protein misfolding and failure to mature to the plasma membrane. This gives rise to some cases of Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) and congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED). We screened ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for their ability to correct SLC4A11 folding defects. Methods Five ophthalmic NSAIDs were tested for their therapeutic potential in some genetic corneal dystrophy patients. HEK293 cells expressing CHED and FECD-causing SLC4A11 mutants were grown on 96-well dishes in the absence or presence of NSAIDs. Ability of NSAIDs to correct mutant SLC4A11 cell-surface trafficking was assessed with a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assay and by confocal microscopy. The ability of mutant SLC4A11-expressing cells to mediate water flux (SLC4A11 mediates water flux across the corneal endothelial cell basolateral membrane as part of the endothelial water pump) was measured upon treatment with ophthalmic NSAIDs. Results BRET-assays revealed significant rescue of SLC4A11 mutants to the cell surface by 4 of 5 NSAIDs tested. The NSAIDs, diclofenac and nepafenac, were effective in moving endoplasmic reticulum-retained missense mutant SLC4A11 to the cell surface, as measured by confocal immunofluorescence. Among intracellular-retained SLC4A11 mutants, 20 of 30 had significant restoration of cell surface abundance upon treatment with diclofenac. Diclofenac restored mutant SLC4A11 water flux activity to the level of wild-type SLC4A11 in some cases. Conclusions These results encourage testing diclofenac eye drops as a treatment for corneal dystrophy in patients whose disease is caused by some SLC4A11 missense mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumari Alka
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joseph R Casey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Okumura N, Hayashi R, Nakano M, Yoshii K, Tashiro K, Sato T, Blake DJ, Aleff R, Butz M, Highsmith EW, Wieben ED, Fautsch MP, Baratz KH, Komori Y, Nakahara M, Tourtas T, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Kruse F, Koizumi N. Effect of Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion on the Expression of TCF4 mRNA in Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:779-786. [PMID: 30811544 PMCID: PMC6392475 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose CTG trinucleotide repeat (TNR) expansion is frequently found in transcription factor 4 (TCF4) in Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), though the effect of TNR expansion on FECD pathophysiology remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of TNR expansion on TCF4 expression in corneal endothelium of patients with FECD. Methods Peripheral blood DNA and Descemet membrane with corneal endothelium were obtained from 203 German patients with FECD. The CTG TNR repeat length in TCF4 was determined by short tandem repeat (STR) assays and Southern blotting using genomic DNA. Genotyping of rs613872 in TCF4 was performed by PCR. TCF4 mRNA levels in corneal endothelium were evaluated by quantitative PCR using three different probes. Control corneal endothelial samples were obtained from 35 non-FECD subjects. Results The STR assay and Southern blotting showed that 162 of the 203 patients with FECD (80%) harbored CTG trinucleotide repeat lengths larger than 50. Quantitative PCR using all three probes demonstrated that TCF4 mRNA is significantly upregulated in the corneal endothelium of patients with FECD, regardless of the presence of TNR expansion. However, the length of the TNR tended to show a positive correlation with TCF4 expression level. No correlation was shown between the genotype of TCF4 SNP, rs613872, and the level of TCF4 expression. Conclusions Our findings showed that TCF4 mRNA is upregulated in the corneal endothelium of patients with FECD. Further studies on the effects of TCF4 upregulation on corneal endothelial cell function will aid in understanding the pathophysiology of FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Hayashi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Masakazu Nakano
- Department of Genomic Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kengo Yoshii
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics in Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kei Tashiro
- Department of Genomic Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiko Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Derek J Blake
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, United Kingdom
| | - Ross Aleff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Malinda Butz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Edward W Highsmith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Eric D Wieben
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Michael P Fautsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Keith H Baratz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Yuya Komori
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Makiko Nakahara
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Theofilos Tourtas
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Friedrich Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
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Abstract
The corneal endothelium (CE) is vital for maintaining the water balance and clarity of the cornea. The CE is a cell layer that is particularly susceptible to aging because of its postmitotic arrest, high metabolic activity involving pumping of ions, and lifelong exposure to ultraviolet light. Despite gradual age-related cell loss, a sufficient number of CE cells are preserved during the lifespan of an individual. However, in conditions such as Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), permanent loss of CE cells leads to corneal edema and loss of vision requiring corneal transplantation. FECD is a genetic and oxidative stress disorder manifested by abnormal cell-matrix interactions and expedited cellular aging culminating in cellular death. Because the endothelium has minimal replicative capacity in vivo and an inability to replace its genome, it is particularly prone to cumulative DNA damage acquired throughout life. In FECD, the underlying genetic defects make the CE genome even more vulnerable to this damage, to the point of causing mitochondrial dysfunction, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, and excessive mitophagy activation. Endogenous and exogenous intracellular stressors alter the synthetic footprint of CE cells, leading to endothelial-mesenchymal transition and secretion of aberrant extracellular matrix (in the form of guttae), resembling scar formation in other organs. In turn, the guttae or endothelial scars contribute to a vicious cycle of FECD pathogenesis and, by further inducing endothelial-mesenchymal transition and oxidant-antioxidant imbalance, perpetuate the molecular changes of the degenerating endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Kinoshita
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Okumura N, Hayashi R, Koizumi N. Perspective of Future Potent Therapies for Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy. Open Ophthalmol J 2018; 12:154-163. [PMID: 30123380 PMCID: PMC6062905 DOI: 10.2174/1874364101812010154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD) is a progressive disease that affects the corneal endothelium in both eyes. Recent studies have identified a novel genetic basis for FECD, and basic research findings have provided evidence for its underlying pathophysiology. Since its first description by Ernst Fuchs in 1910, the only therapeutic choice has been corneal transplantation using donor corneas. However, accumulating evidence suggests that a change in this "rule" may be imminent. Conclusions This article reviews the current knowledge of the genetics and pathophysiology of FECD, and it introduces some potent therapeutic modalities that show promise as new treatments for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences,Doshisha University,Kyotanabe,Japan
| | - Ryousuke Hayashi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences,Doshisha University,Kyotanabe,Japan
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences,Doshisha University,Kyotanabe,Japan
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Wagoner MD, Bohrer LR, Aldrich BT, Greiner MA, Mullins RF, Worthington KS, Tucker BA, Wiley LA. Feeder-free differentiation of cells exhibiting characteristics of corneal endothelium from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Biol Open 2018; 7:bio032102. [PMID: 29685994 PMCID: PMC5992532 DOI: 10.1242/bio.032102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to devise a strategy for the derivation of corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs) from adult fibroblast-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). IPSCs were generated from an adult human with normal ocular history via expression of OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and c-MYC Neural crest cells (NCCs) were differentiated from iPSCs via addition of CHIR99021 and SB4315542. NCCs were driven toward a CEnC fate via addition of B27, PDGF-BB and DKK-2 to CEnC media. Differentiation of NCCs and CEnCs was evaluated via rt-PCR, morphological and immunocytochemical analysis. At 17 days post-NCC induction, there were notable changes in cell morphology and upregulation of the neural crest lineage transcripts PAX3, SOX9, TFAP2A, SOX10 and p75NTR and the proteins p75/NGFR and SOX10. Exposure of NCCs to B27, PDGF-BB and DKK-2 induced a shift in morphology from a spindle-shaped neural phenotype to a tightly-packed hexagonal appearance and increased expression of the transcripts ATP1A1, COL8A1, COL8A2, AQP1 and CDH2 and the proteins ZO-1, N-Cad, AQP-1 and Na+/K+ATPase. Replacement of NCC media with CEnC media on day 3, 5 or 8 reduced the differentiation time needed to yield CEnCs. IPSC-derived CEnCs could be used for evaluation of cornea endothelial disease pathophysiology and for testing of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Wagoner
- Cornea Research Unit, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Laura R Bohrer
- Cornea Research Unit, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Benjamin T Aldrich
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA 52241, USA
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Cornea Research Unit, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA 52241, USA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Kristan S Worthington
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Luke A Wiley
- Cornea Research Unit, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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