1
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Grönroos P, Mörö A, Puistola P, Hopia K, Huuskonen M, Viheriälä T, Ilmarinen T, Skottman H. Bioprinting of human pluripotent stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells with hydrazone crosslinked hyaluronic acid bioink. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:81. [PMID: 38486306 PMCID: PMC10941625 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03672-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human corneal endothelial cells lack regenerative capacity through cell division in vivo. Consequently, in the case of trauma or dystrophy, the only available treatment modality is corneal tissue or primary corneal endothelial cell transplantation from cadaveric donor which faces a high global shortage. Our ultimate goal is to use the state-of-the-art 3D-bioprint technology for automated production of human partial and full-thickness corneal tissues using human stem cells and functional bioinks. In this study, we explore the feasibility of bioprinting the corneal endothelium using human pluripotent stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells and hydrazone crosslinked hyaluronic acid bioink. METHODS Corneal endothelial cells differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells were bioprinted using optimized hydrazone crosslinked hyaluronic acid based bioink. Before the bioprinting process, the biocompatibility of the bioink with cells was first analyzed with transplantation on ex vivo denuded rat and porcine corneas as well as on denuded human Descemet membrane. Subsequently, the bioprinting was proceeded and the viability of human pluripotent stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells were verified with live/dead stainings. Histological and immunofluorescence stainings involving ZO1, Na+/K+-ATPase and CD166 were used to confirm corneal endothelial cell phenotype in all experiments. Additionally, STEM121 marker was used to identify human cells from the ex vivo rat and porcine corneas. RESULTS The bioink, modified for human pluripotent stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells successfully supported both the viability and printability of the cells. Following up to 10 days of ex vivo transplantations, STEM121 positive cells were confirmed on the Descemet membrane of rat and porcine cornea demonstrating the biocompatibility of the bioink. Furthermore, biocompatibility was validated on denuded human Descemet membrane showing corneal endothelial -like characteristics. Seven days post bioprinting, the corneal endothelial -like cells were viable and showed polygonal morphology with expression and native-like localization of ZO-1, Na+/K+-ATPase and CD166. However, mesenchymal-like cells were observed in certain areas of the cultures, spreading beneath the corneal endothelial-like cell layer. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the successful printing of human pluripotent stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells using covalently crosslinked hyaluronic acid bioink. This approach not only holds promise for a corneal endothelium transplants but also presents potential applications in the broader mission of bioprinting the full-thickness human cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyry Grönroos
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anni Mörö
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Paula Puistola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Karoliina Hopia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Maija Huuskonen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
- Tays Eye Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
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2
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Fu C, Wang Z, Zhou X, Hu B, Li C, Yang P. Protein-based bioactive coatings: from nanoarchitectonics to applications. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1514-1551. [PMID: 38167899 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00786c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Protein-based bioactive coatings have emerged as a versatile and promising strategy for enhancing the performance and biocompatibility of diverse biomedical materials and devices. Through surface modification, these coatings confer novel biofunctional attributes, rendering the material highly bioactive. Their widespread adoption across various domains in recent years underscores their importance. This review systematically elucidates the behavior of protein-based bioactive coatings in organisms and expounds on their underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, it highlights notable advancements in artificial synthesis methodologies and their functional applications in vitro. A focal point is the delineation of assembly strategies employed in crafting protein-based bioactive coatings, which provides a guide for their expansion and sustained implementation. Finally, the current trends, challenges, and future directions of protein-based bioactive coatings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyu Fu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Polymeric Soft Matter, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
- International Joint Research Center on Functional Fiber and Soft Smart Textile, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Zhengge Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Polymeric Soft Matter, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
- International Joint Research Center on Functional Fiber and Soft Smart Textile, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Xingyu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Polymeric Soft Matter, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
- International Joint Research Center on Functional Fiber and Soft Smart Textile, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Bowen Hu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Polymeric Soft Matter, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
- International Joint Research Center on Functional Fiber and Soft Smart Textile, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Chen Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Eastern HuaLan Avenue, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Peng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
- Xi'an Key Laboratory of Polymeric Soft Matter, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
- International Joint Research Center on Functional Fiber and Soft Smart Textile, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
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3
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Pele KG, Amaveda H, Mora M, Marcuello C, Lostao A, Alamán-Díez P, Pérez-Huertas S, Ángeles Pérez M, García-Aznar JM, García-Gareta E. Hydrocolloids of Egg White and Gelatin as a Platform for Hydrogel-Based Tissue Engineering. Gels 2023; 9:505. [PMID: 37367175 DOI: 10.3390/gels9060505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovative materials are needed to produce scaffolds for various tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) applications, including tissue models. Materials derived from natural sources that offer low production costs, easy availability, and high bioactivity are highly preferred. Chicken egg white (EW) is an overlooked protein-based material. Whilst its combination with the biopolymer gelatin has been investigated in the food technology industry, mixed hydrocolloids of EW and gelatin have not been reported in TERM. This paper investigates these hydrocolloids as a suitable platform for hydrogel-based tissue engineering, including 2D coating films, miniaturized 3D hydrogels in microfluidic devices, and 3D hydrogel scaffolds. Rheological assessment of the hydrocolloid solutions suggested that temperature and EW concentration can be used to fine-tune the viscosity of the ensuing gels. Fabricated thin 2D hydrocolloid films presented globular nano-topography and in vitro cell work showed that the mixed hydrocolloids had increased cell growth compared with EW films. Results showed that hydrocolloids of EW and gelatin can be used for creating a 3D hydrogel environment for cell studies inside microfluidic devices. Finally, 3D hydrogel scaffolds were fabricated by sequential temperature-dependent gelation followed by chemical cross-linking of the polymeric network of the hydrogel for added mechanical strength and stability. These 3D hydrogel scaffolds displayed pores, lamellae, globular nano-topography, tunable mechanical properties, high affinity for water, and cell proliferation and penetration properties. In conclusion, the large range of properties and characteristics of these materials provide a strong potential for a large variety of TERM applications, including cancer models, organoid growth, compatibility with bioprinting, or implantable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karinna Georgiana Pele
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Hippolyte Amaveda
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC and University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Mario Mora
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC and University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Carlos Marcuello
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC and University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Anabel Lostao
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC and University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzadas (LMA), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Fundación ARAID, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Pilar Alamán-Díez
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Salvador Pérez-Huertas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Andalusia, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Pérez
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Aragon Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragon), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Aragon Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragon), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
| | - Elena García-Gareta
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Aragon Institute for Health Research (IIS Aragon), Miguel Servet University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
- Division of Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
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Karema-Jokinen V, Koskela A, Hytti M, Hongisto H, Viheriälä T, Liukkonen M, Torsti T, Skottman H, Kauppinen A, Nymark S, Kaarniranta K. Crosstalk of protein clearance, inflammasome, and Ca 2+ channels in retinal pigment epithelium derived from age-related macular degeneration patients. J Biol Chem 2023:104770. [PMID: 37137441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration and/or dysfunction of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is generally detected as the formation of intra- and extracellular protein aggregates, called lipofuscin and drusen, respectively, in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in the elderly population. These clinical hallmarks are linked to dysfunctional protein homeostasis and inflammation, and furthermore, are both regulated by changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. While many other cellular mechanisms have been considered in the investigations of AMD-RPE, there has been relatively little work on understanding the interactions of protein clearance, inflammation, and Ca2+ dynamics in disease pathogenesis. Here we established induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE from two patients with advanced AMD and from an age- and gender-matched control subject. We studied autophagy and inflammasome activation under disturbed proteostasis in these cell lines and investigated changes in their intracellular Ca2+ concentration and L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Our work demonstrated dysregulated autophagy and inflammasome activation in AMD-RPE accompanied by reduced intracellular free Ca2+ levels. Interestingly, we found currents through L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels to be diminished and showed these channels to be significantly localized to intracellular compartments in AMD-RPE. Taken together, the alterations in Ca2+ dynamics in AMD-RPE together with dysregulated autophagy and inflammasome activation indicate an important role for Ca2+ signaling in AMD pathogenesis, providing new avenues for the development of therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Koskela
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maria Hytti
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heidi Hongisto
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Mikko Liukkonen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tommi Torsti
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anu Kauppinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, Finland, Immuno-Ophthalmology, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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5
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Hellinen L, Hongisto H, Ramsay E, Kaarniranta K, Vellonen KS, Skottman H, Ruponen M. Comparison of barrier properties of outer blood-retinal barrier models - Human stem cell-based models as a novel tool for ocular drug discovery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 184:181-188. [PMID: 36740104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell monolayer forms the outer blood-retinal barrier and has a crucial role in ocular pharmacokinetics. Although several RPE cell models are available, there have been no systematic comparisons of their barrier properties with respect to drug permeability. We compared the barrier properties of RPE secondary cell lines (ARPE19, and ARPE19mel) and both primary (hfRPE) and stem-cell derived RPE (hESC-RPE) cells by investigating the permeability of nine drugs (aztreonam, ciprofloxacin, dexamethasone, fluconazole, ganciclovir, ketorolac, methotrexate, voriconazole, and quinidine) across cell monolayers. ARPE19, ARPE19mel, and hfRPE cells displayed a narrow Papp value range, with relatively high permeation rates (5.2-26 × 10-6 cm/s). In contrast, hESC-RPE cells efficiently restricted the drug flux, and displayed even lower Papp values than those reported for bovine RPE-choroid, with the range of 0.4-32 cm-6/s. Therefore, ARPE19, ARPE19mel, and hfRPE cells failed to form a tight barrier, whereas hESC-RPE cells restricted the drug flux to a similar extent as bovine RPE-choroid. Therefore, hESC-RPE cells are valuable tools in ocular drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hellinen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Heidi Hongisto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Eva Ramsay
- Drug Research Programme, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 56, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland; Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, P.O. Box 100, FI-70029 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Kati-Sisko Vellonen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Marika Ruponen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland.
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6
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Liang Y, Tan F, Sun X, Cui Z, Gu J, Mao S, Chan HF, Tang S, Chen J. Aberrant Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells of a Retinitis Pigmentosa Patient with the PRPF6 Mutation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169049. [PMID: 36012314 PMCID: PMC9409096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-mRNA processing factors (PRPFs) are vital components of the spliceosome and are involved in the physiological process necessary for pre-mRNA splicing to mature mRNA. As an important member, PRPF6 mutation resulting in autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP) is not common. Recently, we reported the establishment of an induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs; CSUASOi004-A) model by reprogramming the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a PRPF6-related adRP patient, which could recapitulate a consistent disease-specific genotype. In this study, a disease model of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells was generated from the iPSCs of this patient to further investigate the underlying molecular and pathological mechanisms. The results showed the irregular morphology, disorganized apical microvilli and reduced expressions of RPE-specific genes in the patient’s iPSC-derived RPE cells. In addition, RPE cells carrying the PRPF6 mutation displayed a decrease in the phagocytosis of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled photoreceptor outer segments and exhibited impaired cell polarity and barrier function. This study will benefit the understanding of PRPF6-related RPE cells and future cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Liang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
| | - Feng Tan
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
| | - Xihao Sun
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
| | - Jianing Gu
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
| | | | - Hon Fai Chan
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (J.C.); Tel.: +86-139-2510-0123 (S.T.); +86-186-7583-9029 (J.C.)
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410015, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha 410015, China
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Correspondence: (S.T.); (J.C.); Tel.: +86-139-2510-0123 (S.T.); +86-186-7583-9029 (J.C.)
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7
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Fadjukov J, Wienbar S, Hakanen S, Aho V, Vihinen-Ranta M, Ihalainen TO, Schwartz GW, Nymark S. Gap junctions and connexin hemichannels both contribute to the electrical properties of retinal pigment epithelium. J Gen Physiol 2022; 154:213064. [PMID: 35275193 PMCID: PMC8922333 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202112916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular channels that permit the transfer of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells. These cellular junctions are particularly dense in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and their contribution to many retinal diseases has been recognized. While gap junctions have been implicated in several aspects of RPE physiology, their role in shaping the electrical properties of these cells has not been characterized in mammals. The role of gap junctions in the electrical properties of the RPE is particularly important considering the growing appreciation of RPE as excitable cells containing various voltage-gated channels. We used a whole-cell patch clamp to measure the electrical characteristics and connectivity between RPE cells, both in cultures derived from human embryonic stem cells and in the intact RPE monolayers from mouse eyes. We found that the pharmacological blockade of gap junctions eliminated electrical coupling between RPE cells, and that the blockade of gap junctions or Cx43 hemichannels significantly increased their input resistance. These results demonstrate that gap junctions function in the RPE not only as a means of molecular transport but also as a regulator of electrical excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fadjukov
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sophia Wienbar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.,Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.,Department of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Satu Hakanen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Vesa Aho
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Maija Vihinen-Ranta
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Teemu O Ihalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Gregory W Schwartz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.,Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.,Department of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Soile Nymark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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8
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Influence of carrier materials and coatings on retinal pigment epithelium cultivation and functions. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:109063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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9
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Viheriälä T, Hongisto H, Sorvari J, Skottman H, Nymark S, Ilmarinen T. Cell maturation influences the ability of hESC-RPE to tolerate cellular stress. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:30. [PMID: 35073969 PMCID: PMC8785579 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02712-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transplantation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is an urgently needed treatment for the cure of degenerative diseases of the retina. The transplanted cells must tolerate cellular stress caused by various sources such as retinal inflammation and regain their functions rapidly after the transplantation. We have previously shown the maturation level of the cultured human embryonic stem cell-derived RPE (hESC-RPE) cells to influence for example their calcium (Ca2+) signaling properties. Yet, no comparison of the ability of hESC-RPE at different maturity levels to tolerate cellular stress has been reported. Methods Here, we analyzed the ability of the hESC-RPE populations with early (3 weeks) and late (12 weeks) maturation status to tolerate cellular stress caused by chemical cell stressors protease inhibitor (MG132) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). After the treatments, the functionality of the RPE cells was studied by transepithelial resistance, immunostainings of key RPE proteins, phagocytosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, Ca2+ signaling, and cytokine secretion. Results The hESC-RPE population with late maturation status consistently showed improved tolerance to cellular stress in comparison to the population with early maturity. After the treatments, the early maturation status of hESC-RPE monolayer showed impaired barrier properties. The hESC-RPE with early maturity status also exhibited reduced phagocytic and Ca2+ signaling properties, especially after MG132 treatment. Conclusions Our results suggest that due to better tolerance to cellular stress, the late maturation status of hESC-RPE population is superior compared to monolayers with early maturation status in the transplantation therapy settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02712-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taina Viheriälä
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heidi Hongisto
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juhana Sorvari
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland. .,BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
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10
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Vattulainen M, Ilmarinen T, Viheriälä T, Jokinen V, Skottman H. Corneal epithelial differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells generates ABCB5 + and ∆Np63α + cells with limbal cell characteristics and high wound healing capacity. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:609. [PMID: 34930437 PMCID: PMC8691049 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Differentiation of functional limbal stem cells (LSCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is an important objective which can provide novel treatment solutions for patients suffering from limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Yet, further characterization is needed to better evaluate their immunogenicity and regenerative potential before clinical applications. Methods Human PSCs were differentiated towards corneal fate and cryopreserved using a clinically applicable protocol. Resulting hPSC-LSC populations were examined at days 10–11 and 24–25 during differentiation as well as at passage 1 post-thaw. Expression of cornea-associated markers including PAX6, ABCG2, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14, CK12 and ABCB5 as well as human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) was analyzed using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Wound healing properties of the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs were assessed via calcium imaging and scratch assay. Human and porcine tissue-derived cultured LSCs were used as controls for marker expression analysis and scratch assays at passage 1. Results The day 24–25 and post-thaw hPSC-LSCs displayed a similar marker profile with the tissue-derived LSCs, showing abundant expression of PAX6, ∆Np63α, CK15, CK14 and ABCB5 and low expression of ABCG2. In contrast, day 10–11 hPSC-LSCs had lower expression of ABCB5 and ∆Np63α, but high expression of ABCG2. A small portion of the day 10–11 cells coexpressed ABCG2 and ABCB5. The expression of class I HLAs increased during hPSC-LSCs differentiation and was uniform in post-thaw hPSC-LSCs, however the intensity was lower in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. The calcium imaging revealed that the post-thaw hPSC-LSCs generated a robust response towards epithelial wound healing signaling mediator ATP. Further, scratch assay revealed that post-thaw hPSC-LSCs had higher wound healing capacity in comparison to tissue-derived LSCs. Conclusions Clinically relevant LSC-like cells can be efficiently differentiated from hPSCs. The post-thaw hPSC-LSCs possess functional potency in calcium responses towards injury associated signals and in wound closure. The developmental trajectory observed during hPSC-LSC differentiation, giving rise to ABCG2+ population and further to ABCB5+ and ∆Np63α+ cells with limbal characteristics, indicates hPSC-derived cells can be utilized as a valuable cell source for the treatment of patients afflicted corneal blindness due to LSCD. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02673-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meri Vattulainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Vilma Jokinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
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