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Xiao X, Liao Z, Zou J. Genetic and epigenetic regulators of retinal Müller glial cell reprogramming. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2023; 3:126-133. [PMID: 37846362 PMCID: PMC10577857 DOI: 10.1016/j.aopr.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Retinal diseases characterized with irreversible loss of retinal nerve cells, such as optic atrophy and retinal degeneration, are the main causes of blindness. Current treatments for these diseases are very limited. An emerging treatment strategy is to induce the reprogramming of Müller glial cells to generate new retinal nerve cells, which could potentially restore vision. Main text Müller glial cells are the predominant glial cells in retinae and play multiple roles to maintain retinal homeostasis. In lower vertebrates, such as in zebrafish, Müller glial cells can undergo cell reprogramming to regenerate new retinal neurons in response to various damage factors, while in mammals, this ability is limited. Interestingly, with proper treatments, Müller glial cells can display the potential for regeneration of retinal neurons in mammalian retinae. Recent studies have revealed that dozens of genetic and epigenetic regulators play a vital role in inducing the reprogramming of Müller glial cells in vivo. This review summarizes these critical regulators for Müller glial cell reprogramming and highlights their differences between zebrafish and mammals. Conclusions A number of factors have been identified as the important regulators in Müller glial cell reprogramming. The early response of Müller glial cells upon acute retinal injury, such as the regulation in the exit from quiescent state, the initiation of reactive gliosis, and the re-entry of cell cycle of Müller glial cells, displays significant difference between mouse and zebrafish, which may be mediated by the diverse regulation of Notch and TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β) isoforms and different chromatin accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqi Xiao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Liao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jian Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- The Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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2
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Chambers CZ, Soo GL, Engel AL, Glass IA, Frassetto A, Martini PGV, Cherry TJ. Lipid nanoparticle-mediated delivery of mRNA into the mouse and human retina and other ocular tissues. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.13.548758. [PMID: 37502987 PMCID: PMC10369938 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.13.548758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) show promise in their ability to introduce mRNA to drive protein expression in specific cell types of the mammalian eye. Here, we examined the ability of mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with two distinct formulations to drive gene expression in mouse and human retina and other ocular tissues. Methods We introduced mRNA carrying LNPs into two biological systems. Intravitreal injections were tested to deliver LNPs into the mouse eye. Human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal explants were used to assess mRNA expression in human tissue. We analyzed specificity of expression using histology, immunofluorescence, and imaging. Results In mice, mRNAs encoding GFP and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) were specifically expressed by Müller glia and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Acute inflammatory changes measured by microglia distribution (Iba-1) or interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression were not observed 6 hours post-injection. Human RPE also expressed high levels of GFP. Human retinal explants expressed GFP in cells with apical and basal processes consistent with Müller glia and in perivascular cells consistent with macrophages. Conclusions We demonstrated the ability to reliably transfect subpopulations of retinal cells in mice eye tissues in vivo and in human ocular tissues. Of significance, intravitreal injections were sufficient to transfect the RPE in mice. To our knowledge we demonstrate delivery of mRNA using LNPs in human ocular tissues for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheri Z Chambers
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Gillian L Soo
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Abbi L Engel
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ian A Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Timothy J Cherry
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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3
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Mendoza-Aldaba I, López-Valdez N, Cervantes-Valencia ME, Fortoul TI. Vanadium inhalation effects on the corneal ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF): study in a murine model. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2023; 42:49-54. [PMID: 36755405 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2023.2177668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Air pollution is a public health problem caused by predatory human activities and the indiscriminate burning of fossil fuels that liberate particulate matter (PM) into the atmosphere. Vanadium (V) adheres to them and reaches the bloodstream and different organs such as the eye when inhaled. Another way to reach the eye is by direct contact, and the cornea is the first layer exposed. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is secreted by the corneal nerves and some of its functions include self-renewal maintenance and wound healing by the activation of STAT3. Previous reports from our group indicate the activation of STAT3 after the inhalation of V, adhered to PM. OBJECTIVE To analyse the effect of V inhalation in the expression of CNTF. Method: CD-1 male mice were exposed for 4 and 8 weeks to V inhalation. The eyes were removed, and the corneas were processed for immunohistochemistry for CNTF and analysed by densitometry. The same slides were used to evaluate histological modifications and to measure the corneas' anterior epithelial and endothelial thickness. RESULTS A decrease in CNTF expression in the anterior epithelium in the 8th week, as well as an increase in the endothelial and corneal thickness and disarray of all the layers of the anterior epithelium. CONCLUSION V inhalation disturbs the architecture of the cornea and modifies the presence of CNTF which might modify the renewal of the corneas after exposure to PM air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isis Mendoza-Aldaba
- Department of Social Service, School of Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), México
| | - Nelly López-Valdez
- Department in Cellular and Tissular Biology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico, México
| | - María Eugenia Cervantes-Valencia
- Department in Cellular and Tissular Biology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico, México
| | - Teresa Imelda Fortoul
- Department in Cellular and Tissular Biology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Ciudad de Mexico, México
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4
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Boyd P, Campbell LJ, Hyde DR. Clcf1/Crlf1a-mediated signaling is neuroprotective and required for Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged zebrafish retina. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1142586. [PMID: 36846595 PMCID: PMC9950120 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1142586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish possess the innate ability to fully regenerate any neurons lost following a retinal injury. This response is mediated by Müller glia that reprogram and divide asymmetrically to produce neuronal precursor cells that differentiate into the lost neurons. However, little is understood about the early signals that induce this response. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) was previously shown to be both neuroprotective and pro-proliferative within the zebrafish retina, however CNTF is not expressed following injury. Here we demonstrate that alternative ligands of the Ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor (CNTFR), such as Cardiotrophin-like cytokine factor 1 (Clcf1) and Cytokine receptor-like factor 1a (Crlf1a), are expressed within Müller glia of the light-damaged retina. We found that CNTFR, Clcf1, and Crlf1a are required for Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged retina. Furthermore, intravitreal injection of CLCF1/CRLF1 protected against rod photoreceptor cell death in the light-damaged retina and induced proliferation of rod precursor cells in the undamaged retina, but not Müller glia. While rod precursor cell proliferation was previously shown to be Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R)-dependent, co-injection of IGF-1 with CLCF1/CRLF1 failed to induce further proliferation of either Müller glia or rod precursor cells. Together, these findings demonstrate that CNTFR ligands have a neuroprotective effect and are required for induction of Müller glia proliferation in the light-damaged zebrafish retina.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David R. Hyde
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Zebrafish Research, Galvin Life Sciences Building, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States
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Ridley RB, Bowman BM, Lee J, Walsh E, Massengill MT, Lewin AS, Ildefonso CJ. Modulation of Retinal Inflammation Delays Degeneration in a Mouse Model of Geographic Atrophy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.08.527757. [PMID: 36798403 PMCID: PMC9934704 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.08.527757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The advanced form of AMD, geographic atrophy, is associated with increased RPE oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Here we evaluated the effects of delivering an anti-inflammatory viral gene by an AAV-vector in a mouse model of geographic atrophy. We measured changes in retinal function, structure, and morphology over nine months with electroretinography, optical coherence tomography, and fundoscopy, respectively. In addition, we used retinal tissue to quantify changes in markers of inflammation by multiplex ELISA, RT-qPCR, and immunofluorescence staining. Our AAV significantly delayed the loss of retinal function and structure and decreased retinal inflammation compared to the control AAV treatment. Our results suggest that modulating retinal inflammation could significantly slow the progression of geographic atrophy.
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Völkner M, Wagner F, Kurth T, Sykes AM, Del Toro Runzer C, Ebner LJA, Kavak C, Alexaki VI, Cimalla P, Mehner M, Koch E, Karl MO. Modeling inducible neuropathologies of the retina with differential phenotypes in organoids. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1106287. [PMID: 37213216 PMCID: PMC10196395 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1106287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases remain incompletely understood and therapies are needed. Stem cell-derived organoid models facilitate fundamental and translational medicine research. However, to which extent differential neuronal and glial pathologic processes can be reproduced in current systems is still unclear. Here, we tested 16 different chemical, physical, and cell functional manipulations in mouse retina organoids to further explore this. Some of the treatments induce differential phenotypes, indicating that organoids are competent to reproduce distinct pathologic processes. Notably, mouse retina organoids even reproduce a complex pathology phenotype with combined photoreceptor neurodegeneration and glial pathologies upon combined (not single) application of HBEGF and TNF, two factors previously associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacological inhibitors for MAPK signaling completely prevent photoreceptor and glial pathologies, while inhibitors for Rho/ROCK, NFkB, and CDK4 differentially affect them. In conclusion, mouse retina organoids facilitate reproduction of distinct and complex pathologies, mechanistic access, insights for further organoid optimization, and modeling of differential phenotypes for future applications in fundamental and translational medicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Völkner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Felix Wagner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alex M. Sykes
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Lynn J. A. Ebner
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Cagri Kavak
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Peter Cimalla
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mirko Mehner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Edmund Koch
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mike O. Karl
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
- *Correspondence: Mike O. Karl, ,
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Karamali F, Behtaj S, Babaei-Abraki S, Hadady H, Atefi A, Savoj S, Soroushzadeh S, Najafian S, Nasr Esfahani MH, Klassen H. Potential therapeutic strategies for photoreceptor degeneration: the path to restore vision. J Transl Med 2022; 20:572. [PMID: 36476500 PMCID: PMC9727916 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs), as the most abundant and light-sensing cells of the neuroretina, are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. PR degeneration, including morphological and functional impairment of these cells, causes significant diminution of the retina's ability to detect light, with consequent loss of vision. Recent findings in ocular regenerative medicine have opened promising avenues to apply neuroprotective therapy, gene therapy, cell replacement therapy, and visual prostheses to the challenge of restoring vision. However, successful visual restoration in the clinical setting requires application of these therapeutic approaches at the appropriate stage of the retinal degeneration. In this review, firstly, we discuss the mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying cell death. Subsequently, innovations, recent developments, and promising treatments based on the stage of disorder progression are further explored. Then, the challenges to be addressed before implementation of these therapies in clinical practice are considered. Finally, potential solutions to overcome the current limitations of this growing research area are suggested. Overall, the majority of current treatment modalities are still at an early stage of development and require extensive additional studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, before full restoration of visual function in PR degeneration diseases can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Karamali
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Behtaj
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia ,grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222 Australia
| | - Shahnaz Babaei-Abraki
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Hadady
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soraya Savoj
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sareh Soroushzadeh
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Najafian
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Henry Klassen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Irvine, CA USA
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8
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Zhao L, Hou C, Yan N. Neuroinflammation in retinitis pigmentosa: Therapies targeting the innate immune system. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1059947. [PMID: 36389729 PMCID: PMC9647059 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1059947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an important cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and lacks effective treatment strategies. Although mutations are the primary cause of RP, research over the past decades has shown that neuroinflammation is an important cause of RP progression. Due to the abnormal activation of immunity, continuous sterile inflammation results in neuron loss and structural destruction. Therapies targeting inflammation have shown their potential to attenuate photoreceptor degeneration in preclinical models. Regardless of variations in genetic background, inflammatory modulation is emerging as an important role in the treatment of RP. We summarize the evidence for the role of inflammation in RP and mention therapeutic strategies where available, focusing on the modulation of innate immune signals, including TNFα signaling, TLR signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, chemokine signaling and JAK/STAT signaling. In addition, we describe epigenetic regulation, the gut microbiome and herbal agents as prospective treatment strategies for RP in recent advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhao
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Hou
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Naihong Yan
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Naihong Yan,
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9
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Altay HY, Ozdemir F, Afghah F, Kilinc Z, Ahmadian M, Tschopp M, Agca C. Gene regulatory and gene editing tools and their applications for retinal diseases and neuroprotection: From proof-of-concept to clinical trial. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:924917. [PMID: 36340792 PMCID: PMC9630553 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.924917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene editing and gene regulatory fields are continuously developing new and safer tools that move beyond the initial CRISPR/Cas9 technology. As more advanced applications are emerging, it becomes crucial to understand and establish more complex gene regulatory and editing tools for efficient gene therapy applications. Ophthalmology is one of the leading fields in gene therapy applications with more than 90 clinical trials and numerous proof-of-concept studies. The majority of clinical trials are gene replacement therapies that are ideal for monogenic diseases. Despite Luxturna's clinical success, there are still several limitations to gene replacement therapies including the size of the target gene, the choice of the promoter as well as the pathogenic alleles. Therefore, further attempts to employ novel gene regulatory and gene editing applications are crucial to targeting retinal diseases that have not been possible with the existing approaches. CRISPR-Cas9 technology opened up the door for corrective gene therapies with its gene editing properties. Advancements in CRISPR-Cas9-associated tools including base modifiers and prime editing already improved the efficiency and safety profile of base editing approaches. While base editing is a highly promising effort, gene regulatory approaches that do not interfere with genomic changes are also becoming available as safer alternatives. Antisense oligonucleotides are one of the most commonly used approaches for correcting splicing defects or eliminating mutant mRNA. More complex gene regulatory methodologies like artificial transcription factors are also another developing field that allows targeting haploinsufficiency conditions, functionally equivalent genes, and multiplex gene regulation. In this review, we summarized the novel gene editing and gene regulatory technologies and highlighted recent translational progress, potential applications, and limitations with a focus on retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halit Yusuf Altay
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ozdemir
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ferdows Afghah
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Kilinc
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehri Ahmadian
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Markus Tschopp
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cavit Agca
- Molecular Biology, Genetics and Bioengineering Program, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Fabre M, Mateo L, Lamaa D, Baillif S, Pagès G, Demange L, Ronco C, Benhida R. Recent Advances in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Therapies. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27165089. [PMID: 36014339 PMCID: PMC9414333 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) was described for the first time in the 1840s and is currently the leading cause of blindness for patients over 65 years in Western Countries. This disease impacts the eye’s posterior segment and damages the macula, a retina section with high levels of photoreceptor cells and responsible for the central vision. Advanced AMD stages are divided into the atrophic (dry) form and the exudative (wet) form. Atrophic AMD consists in the progressive atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the outer retinal layers, while the exudative form results in the anarchic invasion by choroidal neo-vessels of RPE and the retina. This invasion is responsible for fluid accumulation in the intra/sub-retinal spaces and for a progressive dysfunction of the photoreceptor cells. To date, the few existing anti-AMD therapies may only delay or suspend its progression, without providing cure to patients. However, in the last decade, an outstanding number of research programs targeting its different aspects have been initiated by academics and industrials. This review aims to bring together the most recent advances and insights into the mechanisms underlying AMD pathogenicity and disease evolution, and to highlight the current hypotheses towards the development of new treatments, i.e., symptomatic vs. curative. The therapeutic options and drugs proposed to tackle these mechanisms are analyzed and critically compared. A particular emphasis has been given to the therapeutic agents currently tested in clinical trials, whose results have been carefully collected and discussed whenever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Fabre
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Lou Mateo
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Diana Lamaa
- CiTCoM, UMR 8038 CNRS, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 4, Avenue de l’Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Baillif
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital of Nice, 30 Avenue De La Voie Romaine, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Gilles Pagès
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging (IRCAN), UMR 7284 and INSERM U 1081, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS 28 Avenue de Valombrose, 06107 Nice, France
| | - Luc Demange
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, 06108 Nice, France
- CiTCoM, UMR 8038 CNRS, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Paris Cité, 4, Avenue de l’Observatoire, 75006 Paris, France
- Correspondence: (L.D.); (C.R.); (R.B.)
| | - Cyril Ronco
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, 06108 Nice, France
- Correspondence: (L.D.); (C.R.); (R.B.)
| | - Rachid Benhida
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272, Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, 06108 Nice, France
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences-Green Process Engineering (CBS-GPE), Mohamed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Benguerir 43150, Morocco
- Correspondence: (L.D.); (C.R.); (R.B.)
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11
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Yu FSX, Lee PSY, Yang L, Gao N, Zhang Y, Ljubimov AV, Yang E, Zhou Q, Xie L. The impact of sensory neuropathy and inflammation on epithelial wound healing in diabetic corneas. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 89:101039. [PMID: 34991965 PMCID: PMC9250553 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common complication of diabetes, with several underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, some of which are still uncertain. The cornea is an avascular tissue and sensitive to hyperglycemia, resulting in several diabetic corneal complications including delayed epithelial wound healing, recurrent erosions, neuropathy, loss of sensitivity, and tear film changes. The manifestation of DPN in the cornea is referred to as diabetic neurotrophic keratopathy (DNK). Recent studies have revealed that disturbed epithelial-neural-immune cell interactions are a major cause of DNK. The epithelium is supplied by a dense network of sensory nerve endings and dendritic cell processes, and it secretes growth/neurotrophic factors and cytokines to nourish these neighboring cells. In turn, sensory nerve endings release neuropeptides to suppress inflammation and promote epithelial wound healing, while resident immune cells provide neurotrophic and growth factors to support neuronal and epithelial cells, respectively. Diabetes greatly perturbs these interdependencies, resulting in suppressed epithelial proliferation, sensory neuropathy, and a decreased density of dendritic cells. Clinically, this results in a markedly delayed wound healing and impaired sensory nerve regeneration in response to insult and injury. Current treatments for DPN and DNK largely focus on managing the severe complications of the disease. Cell-based therapies hold promise for providing more effective treatment for diabetic keratopathy and corneal ulcers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Shin X Yu
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Patrick S Y Lee
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Lingling Yang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Nan Gao
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ellen Yang
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.
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12
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Chen Y, Xia Q, Zeng Y, Zhang Y, Zhang M. Regulations of Retinal Inflammation: Focusing on Müller Glia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:898652. [PMID: 35573676 PMCID: PMC9091449 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.898652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal inflammation underlies multiple prevalent retinal diseases. While microglia are one of the most studied cell types regarding retinal inflammation, growing evidence shows that Müller glia play critical roles in the regulation of retinal inflammation. Müller glia express various receptors for cytokines and release cytokines to regulate inflammation. Müller glia are part of the blood-retinal barrier and interact with microglia in the inflammatory responses. The unique metabolic features of Müller glia in the retina makes them vital for retinal homeostasis maintenance, regulating retinal inflammation by lipid metabolism, purine metabolism, iron metabolism, trophic factors, and antioxidants. miRNAs in Müller glia regulate inflammatory responses via different mechanisms and potentially regulate retinal regeneration. Novel therapies are explored targeting Müller glia for inflammatory retinal diseases treatment. Here we review new findings regarding the roles of Müller glia in retinal inflammation and discuss the related novel therapies for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinghong Xia
- Operating Room of Anesthesia Surgery Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Research Laboratory of Macular Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Meixia Zhang,
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13
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Regulation of mitochondrial morphology and metabolism by Jak-STAT pathway. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.12750/jarb.36.4.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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14
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Hayashi H, Mori M, Harashima M, Hashizume T, Furiya M, Mukaigaito C, Takemura E, Yamada M, Mise K, Yuan B, Takagi N. Apolipoprotein E-Containing Lipoproteins and LRP1 Protect From NMDA-Induced Excitotoxicity Associated With Reducing α2-Macroglobulin in Müller Glia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:23. [PMID: 34698771 PMCID: PMC8556555 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.13.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Optic nerve damage leads to impairment of visual functions. We previously demonstrated that apolipoprotein E-containing lipoproteins (E-LPs) protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from degeneration in a glaucoma model of glutamate/aspartate transporter-deficient mice. This study aimed to determine whether E-LPs protect RGCs from N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-induced excitotoxicity, and to investigate the details of an indirect neuroprotective mechanism of E-LPs by reducing α2-macroglobulin, which interferes with the neuroprotective effect of E-LPs, in Müller glia. Methods Excitotoxicity was caused by intravitreal injection of NMDA, and then retinae were subjected to immunoblotting or quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Primary cultures of mouse mixed retinal cells and mouse Müller glia were used for evaluating the effects of E-LPs on the expression of α2-macroglobulin. Results Intravitreal injection of E-LPs protected the optic nerve from degeneration and attenuated the increase in α2-macroglobulin in aqueous humor and retina of rats. E-LPs directly decreased the expression and secretion of α2-macroglobulin in primary cultures of Müller glia; this decrease in production of α2-macroglobulin was blocked by knockdown of the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) with small interfering RNA. E-LPs promoted the phosphorylation of STAT3, whereas Stattic, an inhibitor of STAT3, restored the expression of α2-macroglobulin decreased by E-LPs. Conclusions In addition to our previous findings of the protection of RGCs by E-LPs, the new observations in Müller glia indicate that a reduction of the intraocular α2-macroglobulin, regulated by the E-LP-LRP1-STAT3 pathway, might be an additional protective mechanism against excitotoxicity in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Hayashi
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Misuzu Mori
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mina Harashima
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Hashizume
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miho Furiya
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chihaya Mukaigaito
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Takemura
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mariko Yamada
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanako Mise
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Bo Yuan
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Josai University, Sakado, Saitama, Japan
| | - Norio Takagi
- Department of Applied Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Yang JY, Lu B, Feng Q, Alfaro JS, Chen PH, Loscalzo J, Wei WB, Zhang YY, Lu SJ, Wang S. Retinal Protection by Sustained Nanoparticle Delivery of Oncostatin M and Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Into Rodent Models of Retinal Degeneration. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:6. [PMID: 34347033 PMCID: PMC8340648 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.9.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is caused by mutations in more than 60 genes. Mutation-independent approaches to its treatment by exogeneous administration of neurotrophic factors that will preserve existing retinal anatomy and visual function are a rational strategy. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and oncostatin M (OSM) are two potent survival factors for neurons. However, growth factors degrade rapidly if administered directly. A sustained delivery of growth factors is required for translating their potential therapeutic benefit into patients. Methods Stable and biocompatible nanoparticles (NP) that incorporated with CNTF and OSM (CNTF- and OSM-NP) were formulated. Both NP-trophic factors were tested in vitro using photoreceptor progenitor cells (PPC) and retinal ganglion progenitor cells (RGPC) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and in vivo using an optic nerve crush model for glaucoma and the Royal College of Surgeons rat, model of RP (n = 8/treatment) by intravitreal delivery. Efficacy was evaluated by electroretinography and optokinetic response. Retinal histology and a whole mount analysis were performed at the end of experiments. Results Significant prosurvival and pro-proliferation effects of both complexes were observed in both photoreceptor progenitor cells and RGPC in vitro. Importantly, significant RGC survival and preservation of vision and photoreceptors in both complex-treated animals were observed compared with control groups. Conclusions These results demonstrate that NP-trophic factors are neuroprotective both in vitro and in vivo. A single intravitreal delivery of both NP-trophic factors offered neuroprotection in animal models of retinal degeneration. Translational Relevance Sustained nanoparticle delivery of neurotrophic factors may offer beneficial effects in slowing down progressive retinal degenerative conditions, including retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yan Yang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Bin Lu
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Qiang Feng
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Jorge S Alfaro
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Po-Hsuen Chen
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Joseph Loscalzo
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wen-Bin Wei
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Yi Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shi-Jiang Lu
- NanoNeuron Therapeutics and HebeCell Corp., Natick, MA, USA
| | - Shaomei Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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16
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Gao H, A L, Huang X, Chen X, Xu H. Müller Glia-Mediated Retinal Regeneration. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:2342-2361. [PMID: 33417229 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02274-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Müller glia originate from neuroepithelium and are the principal glial cells in the retina. During retinal development, Müller glia are one of the last cell types to be born. In lower vertebrates, such as zebrafish, Müller glia possess a remarkable capacity for retinal regeneration following various forms of injury through a reprogramming process in which endogenous Müller glia proliferate and differentiate into all types of retinal cells. In mammals, Müller glia become reactive in response to damage to protect or to further impair retinal function. Although mammalian Müller glia have regenerative potential, it is limited as far as repairing damaged retina. Lessons learned from zebrafish will help reveal the critical mechanisms involved in Müller glia reprogramming. Progress has been made in triggering Müller glia to reprogram and generate functional neurons to restore vision in mammals indicating that Müller glia reprogramming may be a promising therapeutic strategy for human retinal diseases. This review comprehensively summarizes the mechanisms related to retinal regeneration in model animals and the critical advanced progress made in Müller glia reprogramming in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Gao
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Luodan A
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiaona Huang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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17
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Bucher F, Aguilar E, Marra KV, Rapp J, Arnold J, Diaz-Aguilar S, Lange C, Agostini H, Schlunck G, Stahl A, Friedlander M. CNTF Prevents Development of Outer Retinal Neovascularization Through Upregulation of CxCl10. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:20. [PMID: 32780864 PMCID: PMC7441336 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a well-characterized neurotrophic factor currently in clinical trials for the treatment of macular telangiectasia type II. Our previous work showed that CNTF-induced STAT3 signaling is a potent inhibitor of pathologic preretinal neovascular tuft formation in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. In this study, we investigated the effect of CNTF on outer retinal and choroidal angiogenesis and the mechanisms that underpin the observed decrease in outer retinal neovascularization following CNTF treatment. Methods In the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models, mice received a one-time injection (on postnatal day [P] 12 in the Vldlr–/– model and 1 day after laser in the Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV) model) of recombinant CNTF or CxCl10, and the extent of neovascular lesions was assessed 6 days posttreatment. STAT3 downstream targets affected by CNTF treatment were identified using quantitative PCR analysis. A proteome array was used to compare media conditioned by CNTF-treated and control-treated primary Müller cells to screen for CNTF-induced changes in secreted angiogenic factors. Results Intravitreal treatment with recombinant CNTF led to significant reduction in neovascularization in the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models. Treatment effect in the Vldlr–/– was long-lasting but time sensitive, requiring intravitreal treatment before P19. Mechanistic workup in vitro as well as in vivo confirmed significant activation of the STAT3-signaling pathway in Müller cells in response to CNTF treatment and upregulation of CxCl10. Intravitreal injections of recombinant CxCl10 significantly reduced outer retinal neovascularization in vivo in both the Vldlr–/– and laser-CNV mouse models. Conclusions CNTF treatment indirectly affects outer retinal and choroidal neovascularization by inducing CxCl10 secretion from retinal Müller cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Bucher
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Edith Aguilar
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Kyle V Marra
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Julian Rapp
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Arnold
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Diaz-Aguilar
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Friedlander
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States.,The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
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18
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Charish J, Shabanzadeh AP, Chen D, Mehlen P, Sethuramanujam S, Harada H, Bonilha VL, Awatramani G, Bremner R, Monnier PP. Neogenin neutralization prevents photoreceptor loss in inherited retinal degeneration. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:2054-2068. [PMID: 32175920 DOI: 10.1172/jci125898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) are characterized by the progressive loss of photoreceptors and represent one of the most prevalent causes of blindness among working-age populations. Cyclic nucleotide dysregulation is a common pathological feature linked to numerous forms of IRD, yet the precise mechanisms through which this contributes to photoreceptor death remain elusive. Here we demonstrate that cAMP induced upregulation of the dependence receptor neogenin in the retina. Neogenin levels were also elevated in both human and murine degenerating photoreceptors. We found that overexpressing neogenin in mouse photoreceptors was sufficient to induce cell death, whereas silencing neogenin in degenerating murine photoreceptors promoted survival, thus identifying a pro-death signal in IRDs. A possible treatment strategy is modeled whereby peptide neutralization of neogenin in Rd1, Rd10, and Rho P23H-knockin mice promotes rod and cone survival and rescues visual function as measured by light-evoked retinal ganglion cell recordings, scotopic/photopic electroretinogram recordings, and visual acuity tests. These results expose neogenin as a critical link between cAMP and photoreceptor death, and identify a druggable target for the treatment of retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Charish
- Vision Division, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and
| | - Alireza P Shabanzadeh
- Vision Division, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Danian Chen
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Patrick Mehlen
- Apoptosis, Cancer and Development Laboratory, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Hidekiyo Harada
- Vision Division, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vera L Bonilha
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Gautam Awatramani
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rod Bremner
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology and.,Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philippe P Monnier
- Vision Division, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and.,Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Xin X, Li Y, Liu H. Hesperidin ameliorates hypobaric hypoxia-induced retinal impairment through activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibition of apoptosis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19426. [PMID: 33173100 PMCID: PMC7655840 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76156-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
High-altitude retinopathy is initiated by hypobaric hypoxia and characterized by retinal functional changes, but the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that mediate this dysfunction remain unclear. The aim of our investigation is to determine the protective efficacy of hesperidin (HSD) on the hypobaric hypoxia-induced damage to the retina. Experiment rats were randomly grouped as the control, hypobaric hypoxia group and HSD intervention group. The hypobaric hypoxia and the HSD intervention groups were maintained in a low-pressure oxygen cabin. We found that hypobaric hypoxia dramatically reduced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1(HO-1) levels, induced an elevation in immunostaining of TUNEL-positive cells. Hypobaric hypoxia exposure resulted in the increase of Bcl-2, decrease of caspase3 and caspase9 expression as well as Bax level. HSD protected the retina from hypobaric hypoxia-caused impairment by enhancing Nrf2 and HO-1 activation, attenuating apoptotic caspases levels, and reducing Bax and preserving Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, oxidative stress increased poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) and suppressed ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) level, HSD treatment reverted this effect by down-regulation of PARP1 and up-regulation of CNTF expression. Taken together, our findings implicate that HSD exerts a protective role in response to hypobaric hypoxia stress by activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibiting apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Xin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Yanrong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Haiping Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, China
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20
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Fantone S, Tossetta G, Montironi R, Senzacqua M, Marzioni D, Mazzucchelli R. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and its receptor (CNTFRα) signal through MAPK/ERK pathway in human prostate tissues: a morphological and biomolecular study. Eur J Histochem 2020; 64. [PMID: 33131268 PMCID: PMC7586252 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a member of interleukin-6 type cytokine family. The CNTF receptor complex is a heterodimer including gp130 and CNTF receptor α (CNTFRα) proteins triggering the activation of multiple intracellular signaling pathways including AKT/PI3K, MAPK/ERK and Jak/STAT pathways. At present no data are available on the localization of CNTF and CNTFRα in prostate as well as on the role of CNTF in this organ. In this study we have analyzed the localization of CNTF and CNTFRα by immunohistochemistry and we have used PWR-1E cell line as a model for normal glandular cell to investigate the role of this cytokine. Our results show that CNTF and CNTFRa are expressed in the staminal compart of the prostate and that CNTF selectively inhibits ERK pathway. In conclusion, we suggest that CNTF could be considered as key molecule to maintenance epithelium homeostasis via pERK downregulation by an autocrine mechanism. Further CNTF studies in prostate cancer could be useful to verify the potential role of this cytokine in carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Fantone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona.
| | - Giovanni Tossetta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona.
| | - Rodolfo Montironi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Pathological Anatomy, Università Politecnica delle Marche, School of Medicine, United Hospitals, Ancona.
| | - Martina Senzacqua
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona.
| | - Daniela Marzioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona.
| | - Roberta Mazzucchelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Section of Pathological Anatomy, Università Politecnica delle Marche, School of Medicine, United Hospitals, Ancona.
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21
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Intravitreal Co-Administration of GDNF and CNTF Confers Synergistic and Long-Lasting Protection against Injury-Induced Cell Death of Retinal Ganglion Cells in Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092082. [PMID: 32932933 PMCID: PMC7565883 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that neural stem cell-based intravitreal co-administration of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) confers profound protection to injured retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a mouse optic nerve crush model, resulting in the survival of ~38% RGCs two months after the nerve lesion. Here, we analyzed whether this neuroprotective effect is long-lasting and studied the impact of the pronounced RGC rescue on axonal regeneration. To this aim, we co-injected a GDNF- and a CNTF-overexpressing neural stem cell line into the vitreous cavity of adult mice one day after an optic nerve crush and determined the number of surviving RGCs 4, 6 and 8 months after the lesion. Remarkably, we found no significant decrease in the number of surviving RGCs between the successive analysis time points, indicating that the combined administration of GDNF and CNTF conferred lifelong protection to injured RGCs. While the simultaneous administration of GDNF and CNTF stimulated pronounced intraretinal axon growth when compared to retinas treated with either factor alone, numbers of regenerating axons in the distal optic nerve stumps were similar in animals co-treated with both factors and animals treated with CNTF only.
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22
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Yu H, Enayati S, Chang K, Cho K, Lee SW, Talib M, Zihlavnikova K, Xie J, Achour H, Fried SI, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Noninvasive Electrical Stimulation Improves Photoreceptor Survival and Retinal Function in Mice with Inherited Photoreceptor Degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:5. [PMID: 32271885 PMCID: PMC7401948 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.4.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Neurons carry electrical signals and communicate via electrical activities. The therapeutic potential of electrical stimulation (ES) for the nervous system, including the retina, through improvement of cell survival and function has been noted. Here we investigated the neuroprotective and regenerative potential of ES in a mouse model of inherited retinal degeneration. Methods Rhodopsin-deficient (Rho−/−) mice received one or two sessions of transpalpebral ES or sham treatments for 7 consecutive days. Intraperitoneal injection of 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine was used to label proliferating cells. Weekly electroretinograms were performed to monitor retinal function. Retinal morphology, photoreceptor survival, and regeneration were evaluated in vivo using immunohistochemistry and genetic fate-mapping techniques. Müller cell (MC) cultures were employed to further define the optimal conditions of ES application. Results Noninvasive transpalpebral ES in Rho−/− mice improved photoreceptor survival and electroretinography function in vivo. ES also triggered residential retinal progenitor-like cells such as MCs to reenter the cell cycle, possibly producing new photoreceptors, as shown by immunohistochemistry and genetic fate-mapping techniques. ES directly stimulated cell proliferation and the expression of progenitor cell markers in MC cultures, at least partially through bFGF signaling. Conclusions Our study showed that transpalpebral ES improved photoreceptor survival and retinal function and induced the proliferation, probably photoreceptor regeneration, of MCs; this occurs via stimulation of the bFGF pathways. These results suggest the exciting possibility of applying noninvasive ES as a versatile tool for preventing photoreceptor loss and mobilizing endogenous progenitors for reversing vision loss in patients with photoreceptor degeneration.
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23
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Itkonen J, Annala A, Tavakoli S, Arango-Gonzalez B, Ueffing M, Toropainen E, Ruponen M, Casteleijn MG, Urtti A. Characterization, Stability, and in Vivo Efficacy Studies of Recombinant Human CNTF and Its Permeation into the Neural Retina in ex Vivo Organotypic Retinal Explant Culture Models. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12070611. [PMID: 32629980 PMCID: PMC7408322 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12070611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is one of the most studied neuroprotective agents with acknowledged potential in treating diseases of the posterior eye segment. Although its efficacy and mechanisms of action in the retina have been studied extensively, it is still not comprehensively understood which retinal cells mediate the therapeutic effects of CNTF. As with therapeutic proteins in general, it is poorly elucidated whether exogenous CNTF administered into the vitreous can enter and distribute into the retina and hence reach potentially responsive target cells. Here, we have characterized our purified recombinant human CNTF (rhCNTF), studied the protein’s in vitro bioactivity in a cell-based assay, and evaluated the thermodynamic and oligomeric status of the protein during storage. Biological activity of rhCNTF was further evaluated in vivo in an animal model of retinal degeneration. The retinal penetration and distribution of rhCNTF after 24 h was studied utilizing two ex vivo retina models. Based on our characterization findings, our rhCNTF is correctly folded and biologically active. Moreover, based on initial screening and subsequent follow-up, we identified two buffers in which rhCNTF retains its stability during storage. Whereas rhCNTF did not show photoreceptor preservative effect or improve the function of photoreceptors in vivo, this could possibly be due to the used disease model or the short duration of action with a single intravitreal injection of rhCNTF. On the other hand, the lack of in vivo efficacy was shown to not be due to distribution limitations; permeation into the retina was observed in both retinal explant models as in 24 h rhCNTF penetrated the inner limiting membrane, and being mostly observed in the ganglion cell layer, distributed to different layers of the neural retina. As rhCNTF can reach deeper retinal layers, in general, having direct effects on resident CNTF-responsive target cells is plausible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaakko Itkonen
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- Correspondence: (J.I.); (A.U.)
| | - Ada Annala
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
- Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Science, Utrecht University, David de Wiedgebouw, Universiteitsweg 99, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shirin Tavakoli
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Blanca Arango-Gonzalez
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.A.-G.); (M.U.)
| | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 7, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.A.-G.); (M.U.)
| | - Elisa Toropainen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
| | - Marika Ruponen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco G. Casteleijn
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Solutions for Natural Resources and Environment, Tietotie 2, Espoo, P.O. Box 1000, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Arto Urtti
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 5 E, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (S.T.); (M.G.C.)
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (A.A.); (E.T.); (M.R.)
- Laboratory of Biohybrid Technologies, Institute of Chemistry, St. Petersburg State University, Universitetskii pr. 26, Peterhoff, 198504 St. Petersburg, Russia
- Correspondence: (J.I.); (A.U.)
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Impacts of ciliary neurotrophic factor on the retinal transcriptome in a mouse model of photoreceptor degeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6593. [PMID: 32313077 PMCID: PMC7171121 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63519-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been tested in clinical trials for human retinal degeneration due to its potent neuroprotective effects in various animal models. To decipher CNTF-triggered molecular events in the degenerating retina, we performed high-throughput RNA sequencing analyses using the Rds/Prph2 (P216L) transgenic mouse as a preclinical model for retinitis pigmentosa. In the absence of CNTF treatment, transcriptome alterations were detected at the onset of rod degeneration compared with wild type mice, including reduction of key photoreceptor transcription factors Crx, Nrl, and rod phototransduction genes. Short-term CNTF treatments caused further declines of photoreceptor transcription factors accompanied by marked decreases of both rod- and cone-specific gene expression. In addition, CNTF triggered acute elevation of transcripts in the innate immune system and growth factor signaling. These immune responses were sustained after long-term CNTF exposures that also affected neuronal transmission and metabolism. Comparisons of transcriptomes also uncovered common pathways shared with other retinal degeneration models. Cross referencing bulk RNA-seq with single-cell RNA-seq data revealed the CNTF responsive cell types, including Müller glia, rod and cone photoreceptors, and bipolar cells. Together, these results demonstrate the influence of exogenous CNTF on the retinal transcriptome landscape and illuminate likely CNTF impacts in degenerating human retinas.
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Enayati S, Chang K, Achour H, Cho KS, Xu F, Guo S, Z. Enayati K, Xie J, Zhao E, Turunen T, Sehic A, Lu L, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Electrical Stimulation Induces Retinal Müller Cell Proliferation and Their Progenitor Cell Potential. Cells 2020; 9:E781. [PMID: 32210151 PMCID: PMC7140850 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive electrical stimulation (ES) is increasingly applied to improve vision in untreatable eye conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. Our previous study suggested that ES promoted retinal function and the proliferation of progenitor-like glial cells in mice with inherited photoreceptor degeneration; however, the underlying mechanism remains obscure. Müller cells (MCs) are thought to be dormant residential progenitor cells that possess a high potential for retinal neuron repair and functional plasticity. Here, we showed that ES with a ramp waveform of 20 Hz and 300 µA of current was effective at inducing mouse MC proliferation and enhancing their expression of progenitor cell markers, such as Crx (cone-rod homeobox) and Wnt7, as well as their production of trophic factors, including ciliary neurotrophic factor. RNA sequencing revealed that calcium signaling pathway activation was a key event, with a false discovery rate of 5.33 × 10-8 (p = 1.78 × 10-10) in ES-mediated gene profiling changes. Moreover, the calcium channel blocker, nifedipine, abolished the observed effects of ES on MC proliferation and progenitor cell gene induction, supporting a central role of ES-induced Ca2+ signaling in the MC changes. Our results suggest that low-current ES may present a convenient tool for manipulating MC behavior toward neuroregeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Enayati
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, 3004 Drammen, Norway
- Institute of clinical medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Karen Chang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Hamida Achour
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
- Institute of clinical medicine, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Fuyi Xu
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (F.X.); (L.L.)
| | - Shuai Guo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Katarina Z. Enayati
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Jia Xie
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Eric Zhao
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Tytteli Turunen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
| | - Amer Sehic
- Department of Oral Biology; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (F.X.); (L.L.)
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, 3004 Drammen, Norway
- Department of Oral Biology; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway;
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, 0027 Oslo, Norway
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (S.E.); (K.C.); (H.A.); (K.-S.C.); (S.G.); (K.Z.E.); (J.X.); (E.Z.); (T.T.); (T.P.U.)
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Eastlake K, Luis J, Limb GA. Potential of Müller Glia for Retina Neuroprotection. Curr Eye Res 2020; 45:339-348. [PMID: 31355675 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2019.1648831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Müller glia constitute the main glial cells of the retina. They are spatially distributed along this tissue, facilitating their close membrane interactions with all retinal neurons. Müller glia are characterized by their active metabolic functions, which are neuroprotective in nature. Although they can become reactive under pathological conditions, leading to their production of inflammatory and neurotoxic factors, their main metabolic functions confer neuroprotection to the retina, resulting in the promotion of neural cell repair and survival. In addition to their protective metabolic features, Müller glia release several neurotrophic factors and antioxidants into the retinal microenvironment, which are taken up by retinal neurons for their survival. This review summarizes the Müller glial neuroprotective mechanisms and describes advances made on the clinical application of these factors for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases. It also discusses prospects for the use of these cells as a vehicle to deliver neuroprotective factors into the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Eastlake
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Joshua Luis
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - G Astrid Limb
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
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Overlap between telangiectasia and photoreceptor loss increases with progression of macular telangiectasia type 2. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224393. [PMID: 31658282 PMCID: PMC6816569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the topographical correlation between ellipsoid zone loss and telangiectasia in the deep capillary plexus in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel). METHODS 38 eyes (20 subjects) diagnosed with MacTel were imaged with OCTA between March 2016 and June 2019 in this single center, cross-sectional observational study. The en face OCTA and OCT were evaluated for areas of deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and ellipsoid zone loss, respectively, and their outlines were superimposed to study their overlap (mm2). The primary outcome was percentage of overlap and its relationship to MacTel stage. Secondary outcomes included the relationship between neovascularization and hyperreflective foci as well as correlations between ellipsoid zone loss, deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and visual acuity. RESULTS In nonproliferative MacTel stage, ellipsoid zone loss was localized to margins of telangiectatic areas (mean overlap = 15.2%). In proliferative stages, ellipsoid zone loss showed a higher degree of overlap with telangiectatic areas (mean overlap = 62.8%). Overlap increased with advancing MacTel stages, with an overall average of 45.3%. Overlap correlated highly with ellipsoid zone loss (r = 0.831; p<0.0001). Telangiectasia was present in all 38 eyes (range: 0.08mm2-0.99mm2), while ellipsoid zone loss was absent in 6 (range: 0.00-3.32mm2). Visual acuity correlated most strongly with ellipsoid zone loss (r = 0.569; p = 0.0002), followed by overlap (r = 0.544; p = 0.0004), and finally, telangiectasia (r = 0.404; p<0.0118). Presence of hyperreflective foci on OCT correlated with the presence and intraretinal location of neovascularization. CONCLUSIONS Ellipsoid zone loss occurs at the margins of deep capillary plexus telangiectasia in nonproliferative MacTel, with progressively increasing overlap as MacTel advances, peaking in proliferative disease. Deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and its overlap with ellipsoid zone loss are two promising markers of nonproliferative MacTel, while hyper-reflective foci are markers for proliferative MacTel.
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N-Methyl- N-Nitrosourea-Induced Photoreceptor Degeneration Is Inhibited by Nicotinamide via the Blockade of Upstream Events before the Phosphorylation of Signalling Proteins. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:3238719. [PMID: 31179317 PMCID: PMC6507250 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3238719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU), a known carcinogen, is generally used in animal models to chemically induce photoreceptor degeneration. It has been reported that nicotinamide (NAM) exerts a protective effect on MNU-induced photoreceptor degeneration. We investigated the molecular mechanisms on MNU-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Intraperitoneal MNU injection (75 mg/kg) in rats induced selective photoreceptor degeneration in 7 days. NAM administration completely inhibited photoreceptor degeneration. Photoreceptor layer abnormality was observed within 6 hours after MNU injection, whereas it was restored in the NAM-treated retina, as detected by optical coherence tomography. One day following MNU administration, phosphorylation of the cell death-associated signalling proteins c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) increased, while the apoptosis-related proteins, full-length poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), were depleted. These changes were not observed in the NAM-treated retinas. Cell survival signalling, such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), Akt, and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation, increased in the MNU- but not in the NAM-treated rat retinas. Increased phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK) levels were observed within 6 hours after MNU administration, suggestive of cell survival signalling activation. This did not occur in NAM-treated retinas. These results indicate that NAM regulates upstream cellular events prior to the activation of cell death-related signalling events, such as JNK and p38 phosphorylation.
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Duncan JL. Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Treatment Improves Retinal Structure and Function in Macular Telangiectasia Type 2. Ophthalmology 2019; 126:550-551. [PMID: 30910039 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2018.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Delplace V, Ortin-Martinez A, Tsai ELS, Amin AN, Wallace V, Shoichet MS. Controlled release strategy designed for intravitreal protein delivery to the retina. J Control Release 2019; 293:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Orive G, Santos-Vizcaino E, Pedraz JL, Hernandez RM, Vela Ramirez JE, Dolatshahi-Pirouz A, Khademhosseini A, Peppas NA, Emerich DF. 3D cell-laden polymers to release bioactive products in the eye. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 68:67-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Pietrucha-Dutczak M, Amadio M, Govoni S, Lewin-Kowalik J, Smedowski A. The Role of Endogenous Neuroprotective Mechanisms in the Prevention of Retinal Ganglion Cells Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:834. [PMID: 30524222 PMCID: PMC6262299 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal neurons are not able to undergo spontaneous regeneration in response to damage. A variety of stressors, i.e., UV radiation, high temperature, ischemia, allergens, and others, induce reactive oxygen species production, resulting in consecutive alteration of stress-response gene expression and finally can lead to cell apoptosis. Neurons have developed their own endogenous cellular protective systems. Some of them are preventing cell death and others are allowing functional recovery after injury. The high efficiency of these mechanisms is crucial for cell survival. In this review we focus on the contribution of the most recently studied endogenous neuroprotective factors involved in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival, among which, neurotrophic factors and their signaling pathways, processes regulating the redox status, and different pathways regulating cell death are the most important. Additionally, we summarize currently ongoing clinical trials for therapies for RGC degeneration and optic neuropathies, including glaucoma. Knowledge of the endogenous cellular protective mechanisms may help in the development of effective therapies and potential novel therapeutic targets in order to achieve progress in the treatment of retinal and optic nerve diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Pietrucha-Dutczak
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Marialaura Amadio
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Joanna Lewin-Kowalik
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Smedowski
- Chair and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Flachsbarth K, Jankowiak W, Kruszewski K, Helbing S, Bartsch S, Bartsch U. Pronounced synergistic neuroprotective effect of GDNF and CNTF on axotomized retinal ganglion cells in the adult mouse. Exp Eye Res 2018; 176:258-265. [PMID: 30237104 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuroprotection is among the potential treatment options for glaucoma and other retinal pathologies characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Here, we examined the impact of a neural stem (NS) cell-based intravitreal co-administration of two neuroprotective factors on the survival of axotomized RGCs. To this aim we used lentiviral vectors to establish clonal NS cell lines ectopically expressing either glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) or ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). The modified NS cell lines were intravitreally injected either separately or as a 1:1 mixture into adult mice one day after an optic nerve lesion, and the number of surviving RGCs was determined in retinal flat-mounts two, four and eight weeks after the lesion. For the transplantation experiments, we selected a GDNF- and a CNTF-expressing NS cell line that promoted the survival of axotomized RGCs with a similar efficacy. Eight weeks after the lesion, GDNF-treated retinas contained 3.8- and CNTF-treated retinas 3.7-fold more RGCs than control retinas. Of note, the number of surviving RGCs was markedly increased when both factors were administered simultaneously, with 14.3-fold more RGCs than in control retinas eight weeks after the lesion. GDNF and CNTF thus potently and synergistically rescued RGCs from axotomy-induced cell death, indicating that combinatorial neuroprotective approaches represent a promising strategy to effectively promote the survival of RGCs under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Flachsbarth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wanda Jankowiak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Kruszewski
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Helbing
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Udo Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Li S, Sato K, Gordon WC, Sendtner M, Bazan NG, Jin M. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) protects retinal cone and rod photoreceptors by suppressing excessive formation of the visual pigments. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:15256-15268. [PMID: 30115683 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.004008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-dependent visual cycle provides 11-cis-retinal to opsins in the photoreceptor outer segments to generate functional visual pigments that initiate phototransduction in response to light stimuli. Both RPE65 isomerase of the visual cycle and the rhodopsin visual pigment have recently been identified as critical players in mediating light-induced retinal degeneration. These findings suggest that the expression and function of RPE65 and rhodopsin need to be coordinately controlled to sustain normal vision and to protect the retina from photodamage. However, the mechanism controlling the development of the retinal visual system remains poorly understood. Here, we show that deficiency in ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) up-regulates the levels of rod and cone opsins accompanied by an increase in the thickness of the outer nuclear layers and the lengths of cone and rod outer segments in the mouse retina. Moreover, retinoid isomerase activity, expression levels of RPE65 and lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT), which synthesizes the RPE65 substrate, were also significantly increased in the Cntf -/- RPE. Rod a-wave and cone b-wave amplitudes of electroretinograms were increased in Cntf -/- mice, but rod b-wave amplitudes were unchanged compared with those in WT mice. Up-regulated RPE65 and LRAT levels accelerated both the visual cycle rate and recovery rate of rod light sensitivity in Cntf -/- mice. Of note, rods and cones in Cntf -/- mice exhibited hypersusceptibility to light-induced degeneration. These results indicate that CNTF is a common extracellular factor that prevents excessive production of opsins, the photoreceptor outer segments, and 11-cis-retinal to protect rods and cones from photodamage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhua Li
- From the Neuroscience Center of Excellence and
| | - Kota Sato
- From the Neuroscience Center of Excellence and
| | - William C Gordon
- From the Neuroscience Center of Excellence and.,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 and
| | - Michael Sendtner
- the Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, D-97078 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nicolas G Bazan
- From the Neuroscience Center of Excellence and.,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 and
| | - Minghao Jin
- From the Neuroscience Center of Excellence and .,Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 and
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Ma M, Xu Y, Xiong S, Zhang J, Gu Q, Ke B, Xu X. Involvement of ciliary neurotrophic factor in early diabetic retinal neuropathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Eye (Lond) 2018; 32:1463-1471. [PMID: 29795129 PMCID: PMC6137181 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-018-0110-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been evaluated as a candidate therapeutic agent for diabetes and its neural complications. However, its role in diabetic retinopathy has not been fully elucidated. Methods This is a randomized unblinded animal experiment. Wistar rats with streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetes were regularly injected with CNTF or vehicle control in their vitreous bodies beginning at 2 weeks after STZ injection. A total of five injections were used. In diabetic rats, the levels of CNTF and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and real-time PCR. The abundance of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and β-III tubulin was detected by western blot. Transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining (TUNEL) was used to detect cell apoptosis in the retinal tissue. The activation of caspase-3 was also measured. Results The protein and mRNA levels of CNTF in diabetic rat retinas were reduced compared to control rats. In addition, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and dopaminergic amacrine cells appeared to undergo degeneration in diabetic rat retinas, as revealed by transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining (TUNEL). Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and β-III tubulin protein levels also decreased significantly. Intraocular administration of CNTF rescued RGCs and dopaminergic amacrine cells from neurodegeneration and counteracted the downregulation of β-III tubulin and TH expression, thus demonstrating its therapeutic potential. Conclusion Our study suggests that early diabetic retinal neuropathy involves the reduced expression of CNTF and can be ameliorated by an exogenous supply of this neurotrophin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yupeng Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuyu Xiong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Gu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bilian Ke
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xun Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China. .,Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.
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Schultz R, Krug M, Precht M, Wohl SG, Witte OW, Schmeer C. Frataxin overexpression in Müller cells protects retinal ganglion cells in a mouse model of ischemia/reperfusion injury in vivo. Sci Rep 2018; 8:4846. [PMID: 29555919 PMCID: PMC5859167 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22887-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Müller cells are critical for retinal function and neuronal survival but can become detrimental in response to retinal ischemia and increased oxidative stress. Elevated oxidative stress increases expression of the mitochondrial enzyme frataxin in the retina, and its overexpression is neuroprotective after ischemia. Whether frataxin expression in Müller cells might improve their function and protect neurons after ischemia is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of frataxin overexpression in Müller cells on neuronal survival after retinal ischemia/reperfusion in the mouse in vivo. Retinal ischemia/reperfusion was induced in mice overexpressing frataxin in Müller cells by transient elevation of intraocular pressure. Retinal ganglion cells survival was determined 14 days after lesion. Expression of frataxin, antioxidant enzymes, growth factors and inflammation markers was determined with qRT-PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry 24 hours after lesion. Following lesion, there was a 65% increase in the number of surviving RGCs in frataxin overexpressing mice. Improved survival was associated with increased expression of the antioxidant enzymes Gpx1 and Sod1 as well as the growth factors Cntf and Lif. Additionally, microglial activation was decreased in these mice. Therefore, support of Müller cell function constitutes a feasible approach to reduce neuronal degeneration after ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowena Schultz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Melanie Krug
- Hans-Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Michel Precht
- Hans-Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie G Wohl
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington Seattle, Seattle, United States
| | - Otto W Witte
- Hans-Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Schmeer
- Hans-Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
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Müller Cell Biological Processes Associated with Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Expression. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:479-484. [PMID: 29721979 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Müller cells provide support to photoreceptors under many conditions of stress and degeneration. Leukemia inhibitory factor is known to be expressed in Müller cells, which is necessary to promote photoreceptor survival in stress. We hypothesize that Müller cells that express LIF are undergoing other biological processes or functions which may benefit photoreceptors in disease. In this study, we analyze an existing single Müller cell microarray dataset to determine which processes are upregulated in Müller cells that express LIF, by correlating LIF expression to the expression of other genes using a robust correlation method. Some enriched processes include divalent inorganic cation homeostasis, negative regulation of stem cell proliferation, and gamma-glutamyl transferase activity.
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Bucher F, Walz JM, Bühler A, Aguilar E, Lange C, Diaz-Aguilar S, Martin G, Schlunck G, Agostini H, Friedlander M, Stahl A. CNTF Attenuates Vasoproliferative Changes Through Upregulation of SOCS3 in a Mouse-Model of Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:4017-26. [PMID: 27494343 PMCID: PMC4986766 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-18508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal vascular disease represents a major cause for vision loss in the Western world. Recent research has shown that neuronal and vascular damage are closely related in retinal disease. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a well-studied neurotrophic factor that is currently being tested in clinical trials for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases and macular telangiectasia. However, little is known about its effect on retinal vasculature. In this study, we investigate the effects of CNTF in retinal neovascular disease using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Methods Newborn pups were exposed to 75% oxygen from postnatal day (P)7 to P12 and subsequently returned to room air. Ciliary neurotrophic factor was injected intravitreally at OIR P12 and the vaso-obliterated and neovascular areas were quantified at OIR P17. Immunohistochemistry, RNA, and protein analysis were used to identify CNTF-responsive cells. In vitro experiments were performed to analyze the effect of CNTF on endothelial and astroglial cells. Results In the OIR model, CNTF facilitated capillary regrowth and attenuated preretinal neovascularization in a dose-dependent manner. The protective effect of CNTF was mediated via activation of the JAK/STAT3/SOCS3 signaling pathway. Immunohistochemical studies identified endothelial cells among others as CNTF-responsive cells in the retina. In vitro studies confirmed the anti-angiogenic effect of CNTF on endothelial cell sprouting. Conclusions This study provides evidence for a therapeutic potential of CNTF beyond degenerative retinal disease. Vasoproliferative retinopathies may benefit from a CNTF-dependent and SOCS3-mediated angiomodulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas Bucher
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany 2Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Johanna M Walz
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany 3Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Anima Bühler
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Edith Aguilar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Diaz-Aguilar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Friedlander
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Eye Center Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
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Inoue Y, Shimazawa M, Noda Y, Nagano R, Otsuka T, Kuse Y, Nakano Y, Tsuruma K, Nakagami Y, Hara H. RS9, a novel Nrf2 activator, attenuates light-induced death of cells of photoreceptor cells and Müller glia cells. J Neurochem 2017; 141:750-765. [PMID: 28345128 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The retina is highly sensitive to oxidative stress because of its high consumption of oxygen associated with the phototransductional processes. Recent findings have suggested that oxidative stress is involved in the pathology of age-related macular degeneration, a progressive degeneration of the central retina. A well-known environmental risk factor is light exposure, as excessive and continuous light exposure can damage photoreceptors. Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcriptional factor that controls antioxidative responses and phase 2 enzymes. Thus, we hypothesized that RS9, a specific activator of Nrf2, decreases light-induced retinal cell death in vivo and in vitro. Nrf2 was detected in the nucleus of the 661W cells exposed to RS9 and also after light exposure, and the Nrf2-antioxidant response element binding was increased in 661W cells after exposure to RS9. Consequentially, the expression of the phase 2 enzyme's mRNAs of Ho-1, Nqo-1, and Gclm genes was increased in 661W cells after exposure to RS9. Furthermore, RS9 decreased the light-induced death of 661W cells (2500 lux, 24 h), and also reduced the functional damages and the histological degeneration of the nuclei in the outer nuclear layer or the retina in the in vivo studies (8000 lux, 3 h). Heme oxygenase-1 was increased after light exposure, and Nrf2 was translocated into the nucleus after light exposure in vivo. Silencing of Ho-1 reduced the protective effects of RS9 against light-induced death of 661W cells. These findings indicate that RS9 has therapeutic potential for retinal diseases that are aggravated by light exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Inoue
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Noda
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Ryota Nagano
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Otsuka
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Kuse
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yukimichi Nakano
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tsuruma
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | | | - Hideaki Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
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Regulation of Stem Cell Properties of Müller Glia by JAK/STAT and MAPK Signaling in the Mammalian Retina. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:1610691. [PMID: 28194183 PMCID: PMC5282447 DOI: 10.1155/2017/1610691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans and other mammals, the neural retina does not spontaneously regenerate, and damage to the retina that kills retinal neurons results in permanent blindness. In contrast to embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and embryonic/fetal retinal stem cells, Müller glia offer an intrinsic cellular source for regenerative strategies in the retina. Müller glia are radial glial cells within the retina that maintain retinal homeostasis, buffer ion flux associated with phototransduction, and form the blood/retinal barrier within the retina proper. In injured or degenerating retinas, Müller glia contribute to gliotic responses and scar formation but also show regenerative capabilities that vary across species. In the mammalian retina, regenerative responses achieved to date remain insufficient for potential clinical applications. Activation of JAK/STAT and MAPK signaling by CNTF, EGF, and FGFs can promote proliferation and modulate the glial/neurogenic switch. However, to achieve clinical relevance, additional intrinsic and extrinsic factors that restrict or promote regenerative responses of Müller glia in the mammalian retina must be identified. This review focuses on Müller glia and Müller glial-derived stem cells in the retina and phylogenetic differences among model vertebrate species and highlights some of the current progress towards understanding the cellular mechanisms regulating their regenerative response.
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Todd L, Squires N, Suarez L, Fischer AJ. Jak/Stat signaling regulates the proliferation and neurogenic potential of Müller glia-derived progenitor cells in the avian retina. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35703. [PMID: 27759082 PMCID: PMC5069623 DOI: 10.1038/srep35703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Müller glia are capable of de-differentiating and proliferating to become Müller glia-derived progenitor cells (MGPCs) with the ability to regenerate retinal neurons. One of the cell-signaling pathways that drives the reprogramming of Müller glia into MGPCs in the zebrafish retina is the Jak/Stat-pathway. However, nothing is known about the influence of Jak/Stat-signaling during the formation of MGPCs in the retinas of warm-blooded vertebrates. Accordingly, we examined whether Jak/Stat-signaling influences the formation of MGPCs and differentiation of progeny in the avian retina. We found that Jak/Stat-signaling is activated in Müller glia in response to NMDA-induced retinal damage or by CNTF or FGF2 in the absence of retinal damage. Inhibition of gp130, Jak2, or Stat3 suppressed the formation of proliferating MGPCs in NMDA-damaged and FGF2-treated retinas. Additionally, CNTF combined with FGF2 enhanced the formation of proliferating MGPCs in the absence of retinal damage. In contrast to the zebrafish model, where activation of gp130/Jak/Stat is sufficient to drive neural regeneration from MGPCs, signaling through gp130 inhibits the neurogenic potential of MGPCs and promotes glial differentiation. We conclude that gp130/Jak/Stat-signaling plays an important role in the network of pathways that drives the formation of proliferating MGPCs; however, this pathway inhibits the neural differentiation of the progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levi Todd
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 4190 Graves Hall, 333 West 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Natalie Squires
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 4190 Graves Hall, 333 West 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lilianna Suarez
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 4190 Graves Hall, 333 West 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Andy J Fischer
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 4190 Graves Hall, 333 West 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Kimura A, Namekata K, Guo X, Harada C, Harada T. Neuroprotection, Growth Factors and BDNF-TrkB Signalling in Retinal Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17091584. [PMID: 27657046 PMCID: PMC5037849 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors play key roles in the development and survival of neurons. The potent neuroprotective effects of neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), suggest that they are good therapeutic candidates for neurodegenerative diseases. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease of the eye that causes irreversible blindness. It is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, usually due to high intraocular pressure (IOP), and progressive degeneration of retinal neurons called retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Current therapy for glaucoma focuses on reduction of IOP, but neuroprotection may also be beneficial. BDNF is a powerful neuroprotective agent especially for RGCs. Exogenous application of BDNF to the retina and increased BDNF expression in retinal neurons using viral vector systems are both effective in protecting RGCs from damage. Furthermore, induction of BDNF expression by agents such as valproic acid has also been beneficial in promoting RGC survival. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of neurotrophic factors in retinal diseases and focus on the differential roles of glial and neuronal TrkB in neuroprotection. We also discuss the role of neurotrophic factors in neuroregeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Kimura
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiko Namekata
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Chikako Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
| | - Takayuki Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
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Josephy-Hernandez S, Jmaeff S, Pirvulescu I, Aboulkassim T, Saragovi HU. Neurotrophin receptor agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents: An evolving paradigm. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 97:139-155. [PMID: 27546056 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are prevalent, complex and devastating conditions, with very limited treatment options currently available. While they manifest in many forms, there are commonalities that link them together. In this review, we will focus on neurotrophins - a family of related factors involved in neuronal development and maintenance. Neurodegenerative diseases often present with a neurotrophin imbalance, in which there may be decreases in trophic signaling through Trk receptors for example, and/or increases in pro-apoptotic activity through p75. Clinical trials with neurotrophins have continuously failed due to their poor pharmacological properties as well as the unavoidable activation of p75. Thus, there is a need for drugs without such setbacks. Small molecule neurotrophin mimetics are favorable options since they can selectively activate Trks or inactivate p75. In this review, we will initially present a brief outline of how these molecules are synthesized and their mechanisms of action; followed by an update in the current state of neurotrophins and small molecules in major neurodegenerative diseases. Although there has been significant progress in the development of potential therapeutics, more studies are needed to establish clear mechanisms of action and target specificity in order to transition from animal models to the assessment of safety and use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Josephy-Hernandez
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sean Jmaeff
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Iulia Pirvulescu
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tahar Aboulkassim
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - H Uri Saragovi
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Taskintuna I, Elsayed MEAA, Schatz P. Update on Clinical Trials in Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration. Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol 2016; 23:13-26. [PMID: 26957835 PMCID: PMC4759891 DOI: 10.4103/0974-9233.173134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article summarizes the most recent clinical trials for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of vision loss in the elderly in developed countries. A literature search through websites https://www.pubmed.org and https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/, both accessed no later than November 04, 2015, was performed. We identified three Phase III clinical trials that were completed over the recent 5 years Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), implantable miniature telescope and tandospirone, and several other trials targeting a variety of mechanisms including, oxidative stress, complement inhibition, visual cycle inhibition, retinal and choroidal blood flow, stem cells, gene therapy, and visual rehabilitation. To date, none of the biologically oriented therapies have resulted in improved vision. Vision improvement was reported with an implantable mini telescope. Stem cells therapy holds a potential for vision improvement. The AREDS2 formulas did not add any further reduced risk of progression to advanced AMD, compared to the original AREDS formula. Several recently discovered pathogenetic mechanisms in dry AMD have enabled development of new treatment strategies, and several of these have been tested in recent clinical trials and are currently being tested in ongoing trials. The rapid development and understanding of pathogenesis holds promise for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Taskintuna
- Division of Vitreoretinal, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Patrik Schatz
- Division of Vitreoretinal, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Sciences, Scane County University Hospital, University of Lund, Sweden
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Human neural progenitor cells decrease photoreceptor degeneration, normalize opsin distribution and support synapse structure in cultured porcine retina. Brain Res 2016; 1646:522-534. [PMID: 27369448 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Retinal neurodegenerative disorders like retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment decrease retinal functionality leading to visual impairment. The pathological events are characterized by photoreceptor degeneration, synaptic disassembly, remodeling of postsynaptic neurons and activation of glial cells. Despite intense research, no effective treatment has been found for these disorders. The current study explores the potential of human neural progenitor cell (hNPC) derived factors to slow the degenerative processes in adult porcine retinal explants. Retinas were cultured for 3 days with or without hNPCs as a feeder layer and investigated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), immunohistochemical, western blot and quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) techniques. TUNEL showed that hNPCs had the capacity to limit photoreceptor cell death. Among cone photoreceptors, hNPC coculture resulted in better maintenance of cone outer segments and reduced opsin mislocalization. Additionally, maintained synaptic structural integrity and preservation of second order calbindin positive horizontal cells was also observed. However, Müller cell gliosis only seemed to be alleviated in terms of reduced Müller cell density. Our observations indicate that at 3 days of coculture, hNPC derived factors had the capacity to protect photoreceptors, maintain synaptic integrity and support horizontal cell survival. Human neural progenitor cell applied treatment modalities may be an effective strategy to help maintain retinal functionality in neurodegenerative pathologies. Whether hNPCs can independently hinder Müller cell gliosis by utilizing higher concentrations or by combination with other pharmacological agents still needs to be determined.
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Kawase R, Nishimura Y, Ashikawa Y, Sasagawa S, Murakami S, Yuge M, Okabe S, Kawaguchi K, Yamamoto H, Moriyuki K, Yamane S, Tsuruma K, Shimazawa M, Hara H, Tanaka T. EP300 Protects from Light-Induced Retinopathy in Zebrafish. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:126. [PMID: 27242532 PMCID: PMC4871856 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure of rhodopsin to bright white light can induce photoreceptor cell damage and degeneration. However, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying light-induced retinopathy remains elusive. In this study, we performed comparative transcriptome analysis of three rodent models of light-induced retinopathy, and we identified 37 genes that are dysregulated in all three models. Gene ontology analysis revealed that this gene set is significantly associated with a cytokine signaling axis composed of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 and 3 (STAT1/3), interleukin 6 signal transducer (IL6ST), and oncostatin M receptor (OSMR). Furthermore, the analysis suggested that the histone acetyltransferase EP300 may be a key upstream regulator of the STAT1/3–IL6ST/OSMR axis. To examine the role of EP300 directly, we developed a larval zebrafish model of light-induced retinopathy. Using this model, we demonstrated that pharmacological inhibition of EP300 significantly increased retinal cell apoptosis, decreased photoreceptor cell outer segments, and increased proliferation of putative Müller cells upon exposure to intense light. These results suggest that EP300 may protect photoreceptor cells from light-induced damage and that activation of EP300 may be a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Kawase
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of MedicineTsu, Japan; Mie University Medical Zebrafish Research CenterTsu, Japan; Department of Systems Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of MedicineTsu, Japan; Department of Omics Medicine, Mie University Industrial Technology Innovation InstituteTsu, Japan; Department of Bioinformatics, Mie University Life Science Research CenterTsu, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Ashikawa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Shota Sasagawa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Soichiro Murakami
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Mizuki Yuge
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Shiko Okabe
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | - Koki Kawaguchi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine Tsu, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Kazuhiro Tsuruma
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University Gifu, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University Gifu, Japan
| | - Hideaki Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University Gifu, Japan
| | - Toshio Tanaka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics, and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of MedicineTsu, Japan; Mie University Medical Zebrafish Research CenterTsu, Japan; Department of Systems Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of MedicineTsu, Japan; Department of Omics Medicine, Mie University Industrial Technology Innovation InstituteTsu, Japan; Department of Bioinformatics, Mie University Life Science Research CenterTsu, Japan
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48
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Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Promotes the Migration of Corneal Epithelial Stem/progenitor Cells by Up-regulation of MMPs through the Phosphorylation of Akt. Sci Rep 2016; 6:25870. [PMID: 27174608 PMCID: PMC4865747 DOI: 10.1038/srep25870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The migration of limbal epithelial stem cells is important for the homeostasis and regeneration of corneal epithelium. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been found to promote corneal epithelial wound healing by activating corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells. However, the possible effect of CNTF on the migration of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells is not clear. This study found the expression of CNTF in mouse corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (TKE2) to be up-regulated after injury, on both gene and protein level. CNTF promoted migration of TKE2 in a dose-dependent manner and the peak was seen at 10 ng/ml. The phosphorylation level of Akt (p-Akt), and the expression of MMP3 and MMP14, were up-regulated after CNTF treatment both in vitro and in vivo. Akt and MMP3 inhibitor treatment delayed the migration effect by CNTF. Finally, a decreased expression of MMP3 and MMP14 was observed when Akt inhibitor was applied both in vitro and in vivo. This study provides new insights into the role of CNTF on the migration of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and its inherent mechanism of Up-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases through the Akt signalling pathway.
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Gao N, Yan C, Lee P, Sun H, Yu FS. Dendritic cell dysfunction and diabetic sensory neuropathy in the cornea. J Clin Invest 2016; 126:1998-2011. [PMID: 27064280 DOI: 10.1172/jci85097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) often leads to neurotrophic ulcerations in the cornea and skin; however, the underlying cellular mechanisms of this complication are poorly understood. Here, we used post-wound corneal sensory degeneration and regeneration as a model and tested the hypothesis that diabetes adversely affects DC populations and infiltration, resulting in disrupted DC-nerve communication and DPN. In streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic mice, there was a substantial reduction in sensory nerve density and the number of intraepithelial DCs in unwounded (UW) corneas. In wounded corneas, diabetes markedly delayed sensory nerve regeneration and reduced the number of infiltrating DCs, which were a major source of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) in the cornea. While CNTF neutralization retarded reinnervation in normal corneas, exogenous CNTF accelerated nerve regeneration in the wounded corneas of diabetic mice and healthy animals, in which DCs had been locally depleted. Moreover, blockade of the CNTF-specific receptor CNTFRα induced sensory nerve degeneration and retarded regeneration in normal corneas. Soluble CNTFRα also partially restored the branching of diabetes-suppressed sensory nerve endings and regeneration in the diabetic corneas. Collectively, our data show that DCs mediate sensory nerve innervation and regeneration through CNTF and that diabetes reduces DC populations in UW and wounded corneas, resulting in decreased CNTF and impaired sensory nerve innervation and regeneration.
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50
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Zhou Q, Chen P, Di G, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Qi X, Duan H, Xie L. Ciliary neurotrophic factor promotes the activation of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and accelerates corneal epithelial wound healing. Stem Cells 2016; 33:1566-76. [PMID: 25546438 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), a well-known neuroprotective cytokine, has been found to play an important role in neurogenesis and functional regulations of neural stem cells. As one of the most innervated tissue, however, the role of CNTF in cornea epithelium remains unclear. This study was to explore the roles and mechanisms of CNTF in the activation of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and wound healing of both normal and diabetic mouse corneal epithelium. In mice subjecting to mechanical removal of corneal epithelium, the corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cell activation and wound healing were promoted by exogenous CNTF application, while delayed by CNTF neutralizing antibody. In cultured corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells, CNTF enhanced the colony-forming efficiency, stimulated the mitogenic proliferation, and upregulated the expression levels of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cell-associated transcription factors. Furthermore, the promotion of CNTF on the corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cell activation and wound healing was mediated by the activation of STAT3. Moreover, in diabetic mice, the content of CNTF in corneal epithelium decreased significantly when compared with that of normal mice, and the supplement of CNTF promoted the diabetic corneal epithelial wound healing, accompanied with the advanced activation of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and the regeneration of corneal nerve fibers. Thus, the capability of expanding corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and promoting corneal epithelial wound healing and nerve regeneration indicates the potential application of CNTF in ameliorating limbal stem cell deficiency and treating diabetic keratopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
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