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Rodriguez C, Chocarro L, Echaide M, Ausin K, Escors D, Kochan G. Fractalkine in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8007. [PMID: 39125578 PMCID: PMC11311528 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
CX3CL1 is one of the 50 up-to-date identified and characterized chemokines. While other chemokines are produced as small, secreted proteins, CX3CL1 (fractalkine) is synthetized as a transmembrane protein which also leads to a soluble form produced as a result of proteolytic cleavage. The membrane-bound protein and the soluble forms exhibit different biological functions. While the role of the fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling axis was described in the nervous system and was also related to the migration of leukocytes to sites of inflammation, its actions are controversial in cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity. In the present review, we first describe the known biology of fractalkine concerning its action through its cognate receptor, but also its role in the activation of different integrins. The second part of this review is dedicated to its role in cancer where we discuss its role in anti-cancer or procarcinogenic activities.
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Grants
- FIS PI23/00196 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
- FIS PI20/00010 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
- BMED 036-2023 Departamento de Salud del Gobierno de Navarra-FEDER, Spain
- LINTERNA, Ref. 0011-1411-2020-000033 Departamento de Industria, Gobierno de Navarra, Spain
- ARNMUNE, 0011-1411-2023-000111 Departamento de Industria, Gobierno de Navarra, Spain
- ISOLDA project, under grant agreement ID: 848166. Horizon 2020, European Union
- PFIS, FI21/00080 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - David Escors
- Oncoimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarrabiomed-Fundación Miguel Servet, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (C.R.); (L.C.); (M.E.); (K.A.)
| | - Grazyna Kochan
- Oncoimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarrabiomed-Fundación Miguel Servet, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (C.R.); (L.C.); (M.E.); (K.A.)
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2
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Liao C, Chen S, Chen X, Yi W, Fan Y, Chen Y, Ye T, Chen Y. Inhibition of JNK ameliorates rod photoreceptor degeneration in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 39010325 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited eye disease that causes progressive vision loss. Microglial activation and inflammation play essential roles in photoreceptor degeneration in RP, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we examined the progressive degeneration of photoreceptors in rd1 mice, a mouse model of RP. We investigated the molecular changes in various retinal cells in rd1 mice using single-cell RNA sequencing and found that potentiation of JNK signaling is associated with photoreceptor degeneration in RP. Moreover, inflammation-related molecules, which function downstream of JNK, are elevated in RP. Furthermore, inhibiting JNK alleviates microglial activation and rescues photoreceptor degeneration in rd1 mice. Thus, our findings suggest that targeting JNK is a promising approach for slowing RP progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Liao
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuai Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen College of Advanced Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuxu Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen College of Advanced Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wanying Yi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, China
| | - Yingying Fan
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuewen Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen College of Advanced Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, China
| | - Tao Ye
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen College of Advanced Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen College of Advanced Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, China
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3
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Xue Y, Cepko CL. Gene Therapies for Retinitis Pigmentosa that Target Glucose Metabolism. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041289. [PMID: 37460158 PMCID: PMC11065158 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa is a blinding disease wherein rod photoreceptors are affected first, due to the expression of a disease gene, leading to the loss of dim light vision. In many cases, cones do not express the disease gene, yet they are also affected and eventually die, typically after most of the rods in their neighborhood have died. The cause of secondary cone death is unclear. Photoreceptors are one of the most energy-demanding cell types in the body and consume a high amount of glucose. At an early stage of degeneration, the cones appear to have a shortage of glucose to fuel their metabolism. This review focuses on gene therapy approaches that address this potential metabolic shortcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlu Xue
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Constance L Cepko
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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4
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Du X, Butler AG, Chen HY. Cell-cell interaction in the pathogenesis of inherited retinal diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1332944. [PMID: 38500685 PMCID: PMC10944940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1332944] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The retina is part of the central nervous system specialized for vision. Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogenous disorders that lead to progressive vision impairment or blindness. Although each disorder is rare, IRD accumulatively cause blindness in up to 5.5 million individuals worldwide. Currently, the pathophysiological mechanisms of IRD are not fully understood and there are limited treatment options available. Most IRD are caused by degeneration of light-sensitive photoreceptors. Genetic mutations that abrogate the structure and/or function of photoreceptors lead to visual impairment followed by blindness caused by loss of photoreceptors. In healthy retina, photoreceptors structurally and functionally interact with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller glia (MG) to maintain retinal homeostasis. Multiple IRD with photoreceptor degeneration as a major phenotype are caused by mutations of RPE- and/or MG-associated genes. Recent studies also reveal compromised MG and RPE caused by mutations in ubiquitously expressed ciliary genes. Therefore, photoreceptor degeneration could be a direct consequence of gene mutations and/or could be secondary to the dysfunction of their interaction partners in the retina. This review summarizes the mechanisms of photoreceptor-RPE/MG interaction in supporting retinal functions and discusses how the disruption of these processes could lead to photoreceptor degeneration, with an aim to provide a unique perspective of IRD pathogenesis and treatment paradigm. We will first describe the biology of retina and IRD and then discuss the interaction between photoreceptors and MG/RPE as well as their implications in disease pathogenesis. Finally, we will summarize the recent advances in IRD therapeutics targeting MG and/or RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Holly Y. Chen
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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5
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Rodriguez D, Church KA, Pietramale AN, Cardona SM, Vanegas D, Rorex C, Leary MC, Muzzio IA, Nash KR, Cardona AE. Fractalkine isoforms differentially regulate microglia-mediated inflammation and enhance visual function in the diabetic retina. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:42. [PMID: 38311721 PMCID: PMC10840196 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02983-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) affects about 200 million people worldwide, causing leakage of blood components into retinal tissues, leading to activation of microglia, the resident phagocytes of the retina, promoting neuronal and vascular damage. The microglial receptor, CX3CR1, binds to fractalkine (FKN), an anti-inflammatory chemokine that is expressed on neuronal membranes (mFKN), and undergoes constitutive cleavage to release a soluble domain (sFKN). Deficiencies in CX3CR1 or FKN showed increased microglial activation, inflammation, vascular damage, and neuronal loss in experimental mouse models. To understand the mechanism that regulates microglia function, recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) expressing mFKN or sFKN were delivered to intact retinas prior to diabetes. High-resolution confocal imaging and mRNA-seq were used to analyze microglia morphology and markers of expression, neuronal and vascular health, and inflammatory mediators. We confirmed that prophylactic intra-vitreal administration of rAAV expressing sFKN (rAAV-sFKN), but not mFKN (rAAV-mFKN), in FKNKO retinas provided vasculo- and neuro-protection, reduced microgliosis, mitigated inflammation, improved overall optic nerve health by regulating microglia-mediated inflammation, and prevented fibrin(ogen) leakage at 4 weeks and 10 weeks of diabetes induction. Moreover, administration of sFKN improved visual acuity. Our results elucidated a novel intervention via sFKN gene therapy that provides an alternative pathway to implement translational and therapeutic approaches, preventing diabetes-associated blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Kaira A Church
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Alicia N Pietramale
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Sandra M Cardona
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Difernando Vanegas
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Colin Rorex
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Micah C Leary
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Isabel A Muzzio
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Kevin R Nash
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
| | - Astrid E Cardona
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, UTSA Circle, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA.
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6
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Zhang Y, Ye F, Fu X, Li S, Wang L, Chen Y, Li H, Hao S, Zhao K, Feng Q, Li P. Mitochondrial Regulation of Macrophages in Innate Immunity and Diverse Roles of Macrophages During Cochlear Inflammation. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:255-267. [PMID: 37391607 PMCID: PMC10838870 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01085-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are essential components of the innate immune system and constitute a non-specific first line of host defense against pathogens and inflammation. Mitochondria regulate macrophage activation and innate immune responses in various inflammatory diseases, including cochlear inflammation. The distribution, number, and morphological characteristics of cochlear macrophages change significantly across different inner ear regions under various pathological conditions, including noise exposure, ototoxicity, and age-related degeneration. However, the exact mechanism underlying the role of mitochondria in macrophages in auditory function remains unclear. Here, we summarize the major factors and mitochondrial signaling pathways (e.g., metabolism, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial DNA, and the inflammasome) that influence macrophage activation in the innate immune response. In particular, we focus on the properties of cochlear macrophages, activated signaling pathways, and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines after acoustic injury. We hope this review will provide new perspectives and a basis for future research on cochlear inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhang
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Fanglei Ye
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiaolong Fu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Shen Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Le Wang
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yutian Chen
- The Department of Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Hongmin Li
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Shaojuan Hao
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Kun Zhao
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Qi Feng
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Henan Province Research Center of Kidney Disease, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Peipei Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Henan Province Research Center of Kidney Disease, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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7
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Lozano B LL, Cervantes A LA. Development of experimental treatments for patients with retinitis pigmentosa. ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE OFTALMOLOGIA 2023; 98:646-655. [PMID: 37640142 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftale.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited diseases that lead to degeneration of the retina and decreased vision. The World Health Organization reports around 1,300 million people affected by some type of visual impairment worldwide. The prevalence is 1 in every 4000 inhabitants and it is the first cause of blindness of genetic origin, frequent in men with a percentage of 60% and 40% in women. There is a lack of information on this pathology in the world, mainly on the existing treatments for this disease, so this bibliographic review aims to update the existing or under-study treatments and inform the limitations of each of these therapies. This review of scientific literature was carried out by consulting databases such as PubMed and Web of science, the search will be limited to articles from the years 2018-2022. There are several types of therapy in studies: gene therapy, transcorneal electrical stimulation, use of neuroprotectors, optogenic therapy, stem cell transplants and oligonucleotide therapy, which will be discussed in this article, both their benefits and the existing barriers in each treatment experimental. In conclusion, each of these therapies promises a viable treatment in the future for selective groups of people with retinitis pigmentosa, however, some therapies have shown benefit at the beginning of the disease, losing their efficacy in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- L L Lozano B
- Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador.
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Sato K, Ohno-Oishi M, Yoshida M, Sato T, Aizawa T, Sasaki Y, Maekawa S, Ishikawa M, Omodaka K, Kawano C, Ohue-Kitano R, Kimura I, Nakazawa T. The GPR84 molecule is a mediator of a subpopulation of retinal microglia that promote TNF/IL-1α expression via the rho-ROCK pathway after optic nerve injury. Glia 2023; 71:2609-2622. [PMID: 37470163 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Resident microglia are important to maintain homeostasis in the central nervous system, which includes the retina. The retinal microglia become activated in numerous pathological conditions, but the molecular signatures of these changes are poorly understood. Here, using an approach based on FACS and RNA-seq, we show that microglial gene expression patterns gradually change during RGC degeneration induced by optic nerve injury. Most importantly, we found that the microglial cells strongly expressed Tnf and Il1α, both of which are known to induce neurotoxic reactive astrocytes, and were characterized by Gpr84high -expressing cells in a particular subpopulation. Moreover, ripasudil, a Rho kinase inhibitor, significantly blunted Gpr84 expression and cytokine induction in vitro and in vivo. Finally, GPR84-deficient mice prevented RGC loss in optic nerve-injured retina. These results reveal that Rho kinase-mediated GPR84 alteration strongly contribute to microglial activation and promote neurotoxicity, suggesting that Rho-ROCK and GPR84 signaling may be potential therapeutic targets to prevent the neurotoxic microglial phenotype induced by optic nerve damage, such as occurs in traumatic optic neuropathy and glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Michiko Ohno-Oishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masaaki Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Taimu Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takaharu Aizawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yuto Sasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shigeto Maekawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Makoto Ishikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kazuko Omodaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kawano
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryuji Ohue-Kitano
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ikuo Kimura
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toru Nakazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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9
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Jong ED, Hacibekiroglu S, Guo L, Sawula E, Li B, Li C, Ho MT, Shoichet MS, Wallace VA, Nagy A. Soluble CX3CL1-expressing retinal pigment epithelium cells protect rod photoreceptors in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:212. [PMID: 37605279 PMCID: PMC10441732 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03434-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal disease that results in photoreceptor degeneration, leading to severe vision loss or blindness. Due to its genetic heterogeneity, developing a new gene therapy to correct every genetic mutation contributing to its progression is infeasible. Photoreceptor transplantation can be harnessed to restore vision; however, this approach is limited by poor cell survival and synaptic integration into the neural retina. Thus, we developed a combined cell and gene therapy that is expected to protect photoreceptors in most, if not all, cases of RP. METHODS Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) modified with our FailSafe™ system were genetically engineered to overexpress sCX3CL1, an inhibitor of microglia activation that has been shown to preserve photoreceptor survival and function in mouse models of RP, independent of the genetic cause. These cells were differentiated into human retinal pigment epithelium (hRPE) cells and used as therapeutic cells due to their longevity and safety, both of which have been demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies. Transgenic hRPE were delivered into the subretinal space of immunodeficient mice and the rd10 mouse model of RP to evaluate donor cell survival and retention of transgene expression. The outer nuclear layer was quantified to assess photoreceptor protection. RESULTS Transgenic FailSafe™ hRPE (FS-hRPE) cells can survive for at least four months in the retina of immunodeficient mice and retain transgene expression. However, these cells do not persist beyond two weeks post-injection in the retina of immunocompetent rd10 recipients, despite Cyclosporine A treatment. Nevertheless, sCX3CL1-expressing FailSafe™ hRPE cells prevented photoreceptor degeneration in a local acting manner during the duration of their presence in the subretinal space. CONCLUSIONS Transgenic hESCs differentiate into hRPE cells and retain sCX3CL1 transgene expression both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, hRPE cells delivered to the subretinal space of rd10 mice prevented photoreceptor degeneration in a local-acting manner, suggesting that this approach could have applications for preserving photoreceptors in specific subregions of the retina, such as the macula. Overall, our study not only reveals the potential of a combined cell and gene therapy for the treatment of RP, but also the possibility of using hRPE cells to deliver therapeutic biologics in situ to treat diseases over long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Jong
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sabiha Hacibekiroglu
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Lily Guo
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Evan Sawula
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Biao Li
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Chengjin Li
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Margaret T Ho
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andras Nagy
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto25 Orde St, 5Th Floor, Room 5-1015, Toronto, ON, M5T 3H7, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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10
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Song DJ, Bao XL, Fan B, Li GY. Mechanism of Cone Degeneration in Retinitis Pigmentosa. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:1037-1048. [PMID: 35792991 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01243-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of genetic disorders resulting in inherited blindness due to the degeneration of rod and cone photoreceptors. The various mechanisms underlying rod degeneration primarily rely on genetic mutations, leading to night blindness initially. Cones gradually degenerate after rods are almost eliminated, resulting in varying degrees of visual disability and blindness. The mechanism of cone degeneration remains unclear. An understanding of the mechanisms underlying cone degeneration in RP, a highly heterogeneous disease, is essential to develop novel treatments of RP. Herein, we review recent advancements in the five hypotheses of cone degeneration, including oxidative stress, trophic factors, metabolic stress, light damage, and inflammation activation. We also discuss the connection among these theories to provide a better understanding of secondary cone degeneration in RP. Five current mechanisms of cone degenerations in RP Interactions among different pathways are involved in RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-Juan Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Xiao-Li Bao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Bin Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Guang-Yu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China.
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11
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Ji Y, Zhao M, Qiao X, Peng GH. Decitabine improves MMS-induced retinal photoreceptor cell damage by targeting DNMT3A and DNMT3B. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1057365. [PMID: 36704326 PMCID: PMC9872157 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1057365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of neurodegenerative retinopathies causing blindness due to progressive and irreversible photoreceptor cell death. The alkylating agent methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) can induce selective photoreceptor cell death, which is used to establish RP animal models. MMS induces DNA base damage by adding alkyl groups to DNA, and epigenetic modifications influence DNA damage response. Here, we aimed to explore the relationship between DNA methylation and DNA damage response in dying photoreceptors of RP. Methods The mouse RP model was established by a single intraperitoneal injection of MMS. The retinal structure and function were assessed by H&E, OCT, TUNEL, and ERG at several time points. The expression of DNA methylation regulators was assessed by qPCR and Western blot. DNMT inhibitor 5-aza-dC was applied to inhibit the activity of DNA methyltransferases and improve the retinal photoreceptor damage. Results The outer nuclear layer (ONL) and IS/OS layer were significantly thinner and the retinal function was impaired after MMS treatment. The cell death was mainly located in the ONL. The retinal damage induced by MMS was accompanied by hyperexpression of DNMT3A/3B. The application of DNMT inhibitor 5-aza-dC could suppress the expression level of DNMT3A/3B, resulting in the remission of MMS-induced photoreceptor cell damage. The ONL and IS/OS layers were thicker than that of the control group, and the retinal function was partially restored. This protective effect of 5-aza-dC was associated with the down-regulated expression of DNMT3A/3B. Conclusion These findings identified a functional role of DNMT3A/3B in MMS-induced photoreceptor cell damage and provided novel evidence to support DNMTs as potential therapeutic targets in retinal degenerative diseases.Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Ji
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaomeng Qiao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Hua Peng
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China,*Correspondence: Guang-Hua Peng, ✉
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12
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Zhang Q, Hu XM, Zhao WJ, Ban XX, Li Y, Huang YX, Wan H, He Y, Liao LS, Shang L, Jiang B, Qing GP, Xiong K. Targeting Necroptosis: A Novel Therapeutic Option for Retinal Degenerative Diseases. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:658-674. [PMID: 36632450 PMCID: PMC9830514 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.77994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the necroptosis, a form of regulated necrosis that is mediated by receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3, and mixed-lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL), represents a major breakthrough that has dramatically altered the conception of necrosis - traditionally thought of as uncontrolled cell death - in various human diseases. Retinal cell death is a leading cause of blindness and has been identified in most retinal diseases, e.g., age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal detachment, retinitis pigmentosa, etc. Increasing evidence demonstrates that retinal degenerative diseases also share a common mechanism in necroptosis. Exacerbated necroptotic cell death hinders the treatment for retinal degenerative diseases. In this review, we highlight recent advances in identifying retinal necroptosis, summarize the underlying mechanisms of necroptosis in retinal degenerative diseases, and discuss potential anti-necroptosis strategies, such as selective inhibitors and chemical agents, for treating retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xi-min Hu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wen-juan Zhao
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-xia Ban
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan-xia Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Wan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ye He
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Lv-shuang Liao
- School of Physical Education, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, China
| | - Lei Shang
- Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Research Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Disease, Nanchang, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guo-ping Qing
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Xiong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China.,✉ Corresponding author: E-mail:
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13
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Murenu E, Gerhardt MJ, Biel M, Michalakis S. More than meets the eye: The role of microglia in healthy and diseased retina. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1006897. [PMID: 36524119 PMCID: PMC9745050 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1006897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the main resident immune cells of the nervous system and as such they are involved in multiple roles ranging from tissue homeostasis to response to insults and circuit refinement. While most knowledge about microglia comes from brain studies, some mechanisms have been confirmed for microglia cells in the retina, the light-sensing compartment of the eye responsible for initial processing of visual information. However, several key pieces of this puzzle are still unaccounted for, as the characterization of retinal microglia has long been hindered by the reduced population size within the retina as well as the previous lack of technologies enabling single-cell analyses. Accumulating evidence indicates that the same cell type may harbor a high degree of transcriptional, morphological and functional differences depending on its location within the central nervous system. Thus, studying the roles and signatures adopted specifically by microglia in the retina has become increasingly important. Here, we review the current understanding of retinal microglia cells in physiology and in disease, with particular emphasis on newly discovered mechanisms and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Murenu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany,*Correspondence: Elisa Murenu, ; ; Stylianos Michalakis,
| | | | - Martin Biel
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany,*Correspondence: Elisa Murenu, ; ; Stylianos Michalakis,
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14
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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: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [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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15
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Dhodapkar RM, Martell D, Hafler BP. Glial-mediated neuroinflammatory mechanisms in age-related macular degeneration. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:673-683. [PMID: 35513496 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00939-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium loss often complicated by neovascularization and is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide. However, the precise pathophysiology of AMD remains to date unclear, and there is a dearth of effective therapies for the early stages of the disease. A growing body of evidence has identified microglia-mediated neuroinflammation as a key driver of neuronal damage in AMD, presenting a novel avenue for the development of pharmacological agents targeting this cell population. The local microglial response interacts with other glia as well as engages in crosstalk with peripheral immunological niches. This article presents a review of the current evidence regarding the involvement of glia in the pathophysiology of AMD, an overview of the key immune circuits and effector mechanisms shown to be active in AMD, and potential therapeutic avenues targeting glial involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego Martell
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Brian P Hafler
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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16
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Wang SK, Cepko CL. Targeting Microglia to Treat Degenerative Eye Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:843558. [PMID: 35251042 PMCID: PMC8891158 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.843558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia have been implicated in many degenerative eye disorders, including retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, and retinal detachment. While the exact roles of microglia in these conditions are still being discovered, evidence from animal models suggests that they can modulate the course of disease. In this review, we highlight current strategies to target microglia in the eye and their potential as treatments for both rare and common ocular disorders. These approaches include depleting microglia with chemicals or radiation, reprogramming microglia using homeostatic signals or other small molecules, and inhibiting the downstream effects of microglia such as by blocking cytokine activity or phagocytosis. Finally, we describe areas of future research needed to fully exploit the therapeutic value of microglia in eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean K. Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Constance L. Cepko
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Constance L. Cepko,
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17
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Jiang M, Xie H, Zhang C, Wang T, Tian H, Lu L, Xu JY, Xu GT, Liu L, Zhang J. Enhancing fractalkine/CX3CR1 signalling pathway can reduce neuroinflammation by attenuating microglia activation in experimental diabetic retinopathy. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:1229-1244. [PMID: 35023309 PMCID: PMC8831940 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of diabetic retinopathy (DR) has been extended from microvascular disease to neurovascular disease in which microglia activation plays a remarkable role. Fractalkine (FKN)/CX3CR1 is reported to regulate microglia activation in central nervous system diseases. To characterize the effect of FKN on microglia activation in DR, we employed streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats, glyoxal‐treated R28 cells and hypoxia‐treated BV2 cells to mimic diabetic conditions and explored retinal neuronal apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as the expressions of FKN, Iba‐1, TSPO, NF‐κB, Nrf2 and inflammation‐related cytokines. The results showed that FKN expression declined with diabetes progression and in glyoxal‐treated R28 cells. Compared with normal control, retinal microglia activation and inflammatory factors surged in both diabetic rat retinas and hypoxia‐treated microglia, which was largely dampened by FKN. The NF‐κB and Nrf2 expressions and intracellular ROS were up‐regulated in hypoxia‐treated microglia compared with that in normoxia control, and FKN significantly inhibited NF‐κB activation, activated Nrf2 pathway and decreased intracellular ROS. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that FKN deactivated microglia via inhibiting NF‐κB pathway and activating Nrf2 pathway, thus to reduce the production of inflammation‐related cytokines and ROS, and protect the retina from diabetes insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Xie
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianqin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing-Ying Xu
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
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18
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Van Gelder RN. Gene Therapy Approaches to Slow or Reverse Blindness From Inherited Retinal Degeneration: Growth Factors and Optogenetics. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:209-228. [PMID: 34584058 PMCID: PMC8486303 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To date, clinical gene therapy efforts for inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) have focused largely on gene replacement. The large number of genes and alleles causing IRD, however, makes this approach practical only for the most common causes. Additionally, gene replacement therapy cannot reverse existing retinal degeneration. Viral-mediated gene therapy can be used for two other approaches to slow or reverse IRD. First, by driving intraocular expression of growth factors or neuroprotective proteins, retinal degeneration can be slowed. Second, by expressing light-sensitive proteins (either microbial channelopsins or mammalian G-protein coupled opsins) in preserved inner retinal neurons, light sensitivity can be restored to the blind retina. Both approaches have advanced substantially in the past decade, and both are nearing clinical tests. This review surveys recent progress in these approaches.
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19
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Caras IW, Collins LR, Creasey AA. A stem cell JOURNEY IN OPHTHALMOLOGY: From the bench to the clinic. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:1581-1587. [PMID: 34515419 PMCID: PMC8641078 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.21-0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Debilitating diseases of the eye represent a large unmet medical need potentially addressable with stem cell-based approaches. Over the past decade, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) has funded and supported the translation, from early research concepts to human trials, of therapeutic stem cell approaches for dry age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and limbal stem cell deficiency. This article chronicles CIRM's journey in the ophthalmology field and discusses some key challenges and questions that were addressed along the way as well as questions that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid W Caras
- The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Lila R Collins
- The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Abla A Creasey
- The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Oakland, California, USA
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20
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Subbarayan MS, Joly-Amado A, Bickford PC, Nash KR. CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 231:107989. [PMID: 34492237 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation was initially thought of as a consequence of neurodegenerative disease pathology, but more recently it is becoming clear that it plays a significant role in the development and progression of disease. Thus, neuroinflammation is seen as a realistic and valuable therapeutic target for neurodegeneration. Neuroinflammation can be modulated by neuron-glial signaling through various soluble factors, and one such critical modulator is Fractalkine or C-X3-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 1 (CX3CL1). CX3CL1 is produced in neurons and is a unique chemokine that is initially translated as a transmembrane protein but can be proteolytically processed to generate a soluble chemokine. CX3CL1 has been shown to signal through its sole receptor CX3CR1, which is located on microglial cells within the central nervous system (CNS). Although both the membrane bound and soluble forms of CX3CL1 appear to interact with CX3CR1, they do seem to have different signaling capabilities. It is believed that the predominant function of CX3CL1 within the CNS is to reduce the proinflammatory response and many studies have shown neuroprotective effects. However, in some cases CX3CL1 appears to be promoting neurodegeneration. This review focusses on presenting a comprehensive overview of the complex nature of CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signaling in neurodegeneration and how it may present as a therapeutic in some neurodegenerative diseases but not others. The role of CX3CL1/CXCR1 is reviewed in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), ischemia, retinopathies, spinal cord and neuropathic pain, traumatic brain injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meena S Subbarayan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA; Center for Excellence in Aging and Brain Repair, Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA
| | - Aurelie Joly-Amado
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA
| | - Paula C Bickford
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA; Center for Excellence in Aging and Brain Repair, Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA; Research Service, James A Haley Veterans Hospital, 13000 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA
| | - Kevin R Nash
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa FL-33612, USA.
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21
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Luu J, Kallestad L, Hoang T, Lewandowski D, Dong Z, Blackshaw S, Palczewski K. Epigenetic hallmarks of age-related macular degeneration are recapitulated in a photosensitive mouse model. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:2611-2624. [PMID: 32691052 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic, multifactorial disorder and a leading cause of blindness in the elderly. Characterized by progressive photoreceptor degeneration in the central retina, disease progression involves epigenetic changes in chromatin accessibility resulting from environmental exposures and chronic stress. Here, we report that a photosensitive mouse model of acute stress-induced photoreceptor degeneration recapitulates the epigenetic hallmarks of human AMD. Global epigenomic profiling was accomplished by employing an Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using Sequencing (ATAC-Seq), which revealed an association between decreased chromatin accessibility and stress-induced photoreceptor cell death in our mouse model. The epigenomic changes induced by light damage include reduced euchromatin and increased heterochromatin abundance, resulting in transcriptional and translational dysregulation that ultimately drives photoreceptor apoptosis and an inflammatory reactive gliosis in the retina. Of particular interest, pharmacological inhibition of histone deacetylase 11 (HDAC11) and suppressor of variegation 3-9 homolog 2 (SUV39H2), key histone-modifying enzymes involved in promoting reduced chromatin accessibility, ameliorated light damage in our mouse model, supporting a causal link between decreased chromatin accessibility and photoreceptor degeneration, thereby elucidating a potential new therapeutic strategy to combat AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennings Luu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.,Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Les Kallestad
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Thanh Hoang
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Dominik Lewandowski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Zhiqian Dong
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurology, Center for Human Systems Biology, Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.,Department of Physiology & Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.,Department of Chemistry, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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22
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Wang SK, Xue Y, Cepko CL. Augmentation of CD47/SIRPα signaling protects cones in genetic models of retinal degeneration. JCI Insight 2021; 6:150796. [PMID: 34197341 PMCID: PMC8409989 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.150796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), can be caused by thousands of different mutations, a small number of which have been successfully treated with gene replacement. However, this approach has yet to scale and may not be feasible in many cases, highlighting the need for interventions that could benefit more patients. Here, we found that microglial phagocytosis is upregulated during cone degeneration in RP, suggesting that expression of "don't-eat-me" signals such as CD47 might confer protection to cones. To test this, we delivered an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector expressing CD47 on cones, which promoted cone survival in 3 mouse models of RP and preserved visual function. Cone rescue with CD47 required a known interacting protein, signal regulatory protein α (SIRPα), but not an alternative interacting protein, thrombospondin-1 (TSP1). Despite the correlation between increased microglial phagocytosis and cone death, microglia were dispensable for the prosurvival activity of CD47, suggesting that CD47 interacts with SIRPα on nonmicroglial cells to alleviate degeneration. These findings establish augmentation of CD47/SIRPα signaling as a potential treatment strategy for RP and possibly other forms of neurodegeneration.
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Stothert AR, Kaur T. Innate Immunity to Spiral Ganglion Neuron Loss: A Neuroprotective Role of Fractalkine Signaling in Injured Cochlea. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:694292. [PMID: 34408629 PMCID: PMC8365835 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.694292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune system dysregulation is increasingly being attributed to the development of a multitude of neurodegenerative diseases. This, in large part, is due to the delicate relationship that exists between neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), and the resident immune cells that aid in homeostasis and immune surveillance within a tissue. Classically, the inner ear was thought to be immune privileged due to the presence of a blood-labyrinth barrier. However, it is now well-established that both vestibular and auditory end organs in the inner ear contain a resident (local) population of macrophages which are the phagocytic cells of the innate-immune system. Upon cochlear sterile injury or infection, there is robust activation of these resident macrophages and a predominant increase in the numbers of macrophages as well as other types of leukocytes. Despite this, the source, nature, fate, and functions of these immune cells during cochlear physiology and pathology remains unclear. Migration of local macrophages and infiltration of bone-marrow-derived peripheral blood macrophages into the damaged cochlea occur through various signaling cascades, mediated by the release of specific chemical signals from damaged sensory and non-sensory cells of the cochlea. One such signaling pathway is CX3CL1-CX3CR1, or fractalkine (FKN) signaling, a direct line of communication between macrophages and sensory inner hair cells (IHCs) and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) of the cochlea. Despite the known importance of this neuron-immune axis in CNS function and pathology, until recently it was not clear whether this signaling axis played a role in macrophage chemotaxis and SGN survival following cochlear injury. In this review, we will explore the importance of innate immunity in neurodegenerative disease development, specifically focusing on the regulation of the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axis, and present evidence for a role of FKN signaling in cochlear neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Rigel Stothert
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Tejbeer Kaur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, United States
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Xue Y, Wang SK, Rana P, West ER, Hong CM, Feng H, Wu DM, Cepko CL. AAV-Txnip prolongs cone survival and vision in mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa. eLife 2021; 10:e66240. [PMID: 33847261 PMCID: PMC8081528 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal disease affecting >20 million people worldwide. Loss of daylight vision typically occurs due to the dysfunction/loss of cone photoreceptors, the cell type that initiates our color and high-acuity vision. Currently, there is no effective treatment for RP, other than gene therapy for a limited number of specific disease genes. To develop a disease gene-agnostic therapy, we screened 20 genes for their ability to prolong cone photoreceptor survival in vivo. Here, we report an adeno-associated virus vector expressing Txnip, which prolongs the survival of cone photoreceptors and improves visual acuity in RP mouse models. A Txnip allele, C247S, which blocks the association of Txnip with thioredoxin, provides an even greater benefit. Additionally, the rescue effect of Txnip depends on lactate dehydrogenase b (Ldhb) and correlates with the presence of healthier mitochondria, suggesting that Txnip saves RP cones by enhancing their lactate catabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlu Xue
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Sean K Wang
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Howard Hughs Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
| | - Parimal Rana
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Emma R West
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Howard Hughs Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
| | - Christin M Hong
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Howard Hughs Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
| | - Helian Feng
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonUnited States
| | - David M Wu
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Constance L Cepko
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Howard Hughs Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
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25
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Wang SK, Xue Y, Cepko CL. Microglia modulation by TGF-β1 protects cones in mouse models of retinal degeneration. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:4360-4369. [PMID: 32352930 DOI: 10.1172/jci136160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a genetically heterogenous group of eye diseases in which initial degeneration of rods triggers secondary degeneration of cones, leading to significant loss of daylight, color, and high-acuity vision. Gene complementation with adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors is one strategy to treat RP. Its implementation faces substantial challenges, however; for example, the tremendous number of loci with causal mutations. Gene therapy targeting secondary cone degeneration is an alternative approach that could provide a much-needed generic treatment for many patients with RP. Here, we show that microglia are required for the upregulation of potentially neurotoxic inflammatory factors during cone degeneration in RP, creating conditions that might contribute to cone dysfunction and death. To ameliorate the effects of such factors, we used AAV vectors to express isoforms of the antiinflammatory cytokine transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). AAV-mediated delivery of TGF-β1 rescued degenerating cones in 3 mouse models of RP carrying different pathogenic mutations. Treatment with TGF-β1 protected vision, as measured by 2 behavioral assays, and could be pharmacologically disrupted by either depleting microglia or blocking the TGF-β receptors. Our results suggest that TGF-β1 may be broadly beneficial for patients with cone degeneration, and potentially other forms of neurodegeneration, through a pathway dependent upon microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean K Wang
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yunlu Xue
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Constance L Cepko
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
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26
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Caruso S, Ryu J, Quinn PM, Tsang SH. Precision metabolome reprogramming for imprecision therapeutics in retinitis pigmentosa. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:3971-3973. [PMID: 32657778 DOI: 10.1172/jci139239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), the most common form of rod-cone dystrophy, is caused by greater than 3100 mutations in more than 71 genes, many of which are preferentially expressed in rod photoreceptors. Cone death generally follows rod loss regardless of the underlying pathogenic mutation. Preventing the secondary loss of cone photoreceptors would preserve central visual acuity and substantially improve patients' quality of life. In this issue of the JCI, Wang et al. demonstrate that adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of TGF-β1 promoted cone survival and function in 3 distinct RP models with rod-specific mutations. TGF-β1 induces microglia to metabolically tune from a glycolytic phenotype (M1) to an oxidative phenotype (M2), which associates with neuroprotection and the antiinflammatory ecosystem. Consolidating the results of this study with our current understanding of how TGF-β1 regulates microglia polarization, we highlight cell-specific metabolome reprogramming as a promising non-gene-specific therapeutic avenue for inherited retinal degenerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Caruso
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, and
| | - Joseph Ryu
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory
| | - Peter Mj Quinn
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care and Bernard and Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Research Laboratory.,Columbia Stem Cell Initiative.,Department of Ophthalmology.,Department of Pathology.,Department of Cell Biology.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, and.,Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA
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27
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Wu DM, Ji X, Ivanchenko MV, Chung M, Piper M, Rana P, Wang SK, Xue Y, West E, Zhao SR, Xu H, Cicconet M, Xiong W, Cepko CL. Nrf2 overexpression rescues the RPE in mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa. JCI Insight 2021; 6:145029. [PMID: 33491671 PMCID: PMC7934854 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.145029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nrf2, a transcription factor that regulates the response to oxidative stress, has been shown to rescue cone photoreceptors and slow vision loss in mouse models of retinal degeneration (rd). The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is damaged in these models, but whether it also could be rescued by Nrf2 has not been previously examined. We used an adeno-associated virus (AAV) with an RPE-specific (Best1) promoter to overexpress Nrf2 in the RPE of rd mice. Control rd mice showed disruption of the regular array of the RPE, as well as loss of RPE cells. Cones were lost in circumscribed regions within the cone photoreceptor layer. Overexpression of Nrf2 specifically in the RPE was sufficient to rescue the RPE, as well as the disruptions in the cone photoreceptor layer. Electron microscopy showed compromised apical microvilli in control rd mice but showed preserved microvilli in Best1-Nrf2–treated mice. The rd mice treated with Best1-Nrf2 had slightly better visual acuity. Transcriptome profiling showed that Nrf2 upregulates multiple oxidative defense pathways, reversing declines seen in the glutathione pathway in control rd mice. In summary, Nrf2 overexpression in the RPE preserves RPE morphology and survival in rd mice, and it is a potential therapeutic for diseases involving RPE degeneration, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Wu
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology.,Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Xuke Ji
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology.,Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Maryna V Ivanchenko
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michelle Chung
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Mary Piper
- Department of Bioinformatics, T.H. Chan Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Parimal Rana
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Sean K Wang
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Yunlu Xue
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Emma West
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Sophia R Zhao
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and
| | - Hongbin Xu
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, and.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Marcelo Cicconet
- Image and Data Analysis Core, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wenjun Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Constance L Cepko
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
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28
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HDAC inhibition ameliorates cone survival in retinitis pigmentosa mice. Cell Death Differ 2020; 28:1317-1332. [PMID: 33159184 PMCID: PMC8026998 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-00653-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cone photoreceptor cell death in inherited retinal diseases, such as Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), leads to the loss of high acuity and color vision and, ultimately to blindness. In RP, a vast number of mutations perturb the structure and function of rod photoreceptors, while cones remain initially unaffected. Extensive rod loss in advanced stages of the disease triggers cone death by a mechanism that is still largely unknown. Here, we show that secondary cone cell death in animal models for RP is associated with increased activity of histone deacetylates (HDACs). A single intravitreal injection of an HDAC inhibitor at late stages of the disease, when the majority of rods have already degenerated, was sufficient to delay cone death and support long-term cone survival in two mouse models for RP, affected by mutations in the phosphodiesterase 6b gene. Moreover, the surviving cones remained light-sensitive, leading to an improvement in visual function. RNA-seq analysis of protected cones demonstrated that HDAC inhibition initiated multi-level protection via regulation of different pro-survival pathways, including MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and autophagy. This study suggests a unique opportunity for targeted pharmacological protection of secondary dying cones by HDAC inhibition and creates hope to maintain vision in RP patients even in advanced disease stages.
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29
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Ryals RC, Huang SJ, Wafai D, Bernert C, Steele W, Six M, Bonthala S, Titus H, Yang P, Gillingham M, Pennesi ME. A Ketogenic & Low-Protein Diet Slows Retinal Degeneration in rd10 Mice. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:18. [PMID: 33117609 PMCID: PMC7571290 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.11.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Treatments that delay retinal cell death regardless of genetic causation are needed for inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) patients. The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, used to treat epilepsy, and has beneficial effects for neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to determine whether the ketogenic diet could slow retinal degeneration. Methods Early weaned, rd10 and wild-type (WT) mice were placed on either standard chow, a ketogenic diet, or a ketogenic & low-protein diet. From postnatal day (PD) 23 to PD50, weight and blood β-hydroxybutyrate levels were recorded. Retinal thickness, retinal function, and visual performance were measured via optical coherence tomography, electroretinography (ERG), and optokinetic tracking (OKT). At PD40, serum albumin, rhodopsin protein, and phototransduction gene expression were measured. Results Both ketogenic diets elicited a systemic induction of ketosis. However, rd10 mice on the ketogenic & low-protein diet had significant increases in photoreceptor thickness, ERG amplitudes, and OKT thresholds, whereas rd10 mice on the ketogenic diet showed no photoreceptor preservation. In both rd10 and WT mice, the ketogenic & low-protein diet was associated with abnormal weight gain and decreases in serum albumin levels, 27% and 56%, respectively. In WT mice, the ketogenic & low-protein diet was also associated with an ∼20% to 30% reduction in ERG amplitudes. Conclusions The ketogenic & low-protein diet slowed retinal degeneration in a clinically relevant IRD model. In WT mice, the ketogenic & low-protein diet was associated with a decrease in phototransduction and serum albumin, which could serve as a protective mechanism in the rd10 model. Although ketosis was associated with protection, its role remains unclear. Translational Relevance Neuroprotective mechanisms associated with the ketogenic & low-protein diet have potential to slow retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee C Ryals
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Samuel J Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Dahlia Wafai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Claire Bernert
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - William Steele
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Makayla Six
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Shasank Bonthala
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Hope Titus
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Paul Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Melanie Gillingham
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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30
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Wang SK, Lapan SW, Hong CM, Krause TB, Cepko CL. In Situ Detection of Adeno-associated Viral Vector Genomes with SABER-FISH. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 19:376-386. [PMID: 33209963 PMCID: PMC7658570 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy with recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors is a promising modality for the treatment of a variety of human diseases. Nonetheless, there remain significant gaps in our understanding of AAV vector biology, due in part to the lack of robust methods to track AAV capsids and genomes. In this study, we describe a novel application of signal amplification by exchange reaction fluorescence in situ hybridization (SABER-FISH) that enabled the visualization and quantification of individual AAV genomes after vector administration in mice. These genomes could be seen in retinal cells within 3 h of subretinal AAV delivery, were roughly full length, and correlated with vector expression in both photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium. SABER-FISH readily detected AAV genomes in the liver and muscle following retro-orbital and intramuscular AAV injections, respectively, demonstrating its utility in different tissues. Using SABER-FISH, we also found that retinal microglia, a cell type deemed refractory to AAV transduction, are in fact efficiently infected by multiple AAV serotypes, but appear to degrade AAV genomes prior to nuclear localization. Our findings show that SABER-FISH can be used to visualize AAV genomes in situ, allowing for studies of AAV vector biology and the tracking of transduced cells following vector administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean K Wang
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sylvain W Lapan
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christin M Hong
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tyler B Krause
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Constance L Cepko
- Departments of Genetics and Ophthalmology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
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Metabolic and Redox Signaling of the Nucleoredoxin-Like-1 Gene for the Treatment of Genetic Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051625. [PMID: 32120883 PMCID: PMC7084304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The loss of cone photoreceptor function in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) severely impacts the central and daily vision and quality of life of patients affected by this disease. The loss of cones follows the degeneration of rods, in a manner independent of the causing mutations in numerous genes associated with RP. We have explored this phenomenon and proposed that the loss of rods triggers a reduction in the expression of rod-derived cone viability factor (RdCVF) encoded by the nucleoredoxin-like 1 (NXNL1) gene which interrupts the metabolic and redox signaling between rods and cones. After providing scientific evidence supporting this mechanism, we propose a way to restore this lost signaling and prevent the cone vision loss in animal models of RP. We also explain how we could restore this signaling to prevent cone vision loss in animal models of the disease and how we plan to apply this therapeutic strategy by the administration of both products of NXNL1 encoding the trophic factor RdCVF and the thioredoxin enzyme RdCVFL using an adeno-associated viral vector. We describe in detail all the steps of this translational program, from the design of the drug, its production, biological validation, and analytical and preclinical qualification required for a future clinical trial that would, if successful, provide a treatment for this incurable disease.
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