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Chou TH, Hao Z, Alba D, Lazo A, Gallo Afflitto G, Eastwood JD, Porciatti V, Guy J, Yu H. Mitochondrially Targeted Gene Therapy Rescues Visual Loss in a Mouse Model of Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17068. [PMID: 38069388 PMCID: PMC10707051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a common mitochondrial genetic disease, causing irreversible blindness in young individuals. Current treatments are inadequate, and there is no definitive cure. This study evaluates the effectiveness of delivering wildtype human NADH ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit 4 (hND4) gene using mito-targeted AAV(MTSAAV) to rescue LHOH mice. We observed a declining pattern in electroretinograms amplitudes as mice aged across all groups (p < 0.001), with significant differences among groups (p = 0.023; Control vs. LHON, p = 0.008; Control vs. Rescue, p = 0.228). Inner retinal thickness and intraocular pressure did not change significantly with age or groups. Compared to LHON mice, those rescued with wildtype hND4 exhibited improved retinal visual acuity (0.29 ± 0.1 cy/deg vs. 0.15 ± 0.1 cy/deg) and increased functional hyperemia response (effect of flicker, p < 0.001, effect of Group, p = 0.004; Interaction Flicker × Group, p < 0.001). Postmortem analysis shows a marked reduction in retinal ganglion cell density in the LHON group compared to the other groups (Effect of Group, p < 0.001, Control vs. LHON, p < 0.001, Control vs. Rescue, p = 0.106). These results suggest that MTSAAV-delivered wildtype hND4 gene rescues, at least in part, visual impairment in an LHON mouse model and has the therapeutic potential to treat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (T.-H.C.); (Z.H.); (D.A.); (A.L.); (G.G.A.); (J.D.E.); (J.G.)
| | | | - Hong Yu
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (T.-H.C.); (Z.H.); (D.A.); (A.L.); (G.G.A.); (J.D.E.); (J.G.)
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Ventrella D, Maya-Vetencourt JF, Elmi A, Barone F, Aniballi C, Muscatello LV, Mete M, Pertile G, Benfenati F, Bacci ML. The p-ERG spatial acuity in the biomedical pig under physiological conditions. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15479. [PMID: 36104429 PMCID: PMC9474814 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19925-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs are becoming an important pre-clinical animal species for translational ophthalmology, due to similarities with humans in anatomical and physiological patterns. Different models of eye disorders have been proposed, and they are good candidates to assess biocompatibility/functionality of retinal prostheses. Electroretinography is a common tool allowing to gain information on retinal function, with several types of electroretinogram (ERG) been implemented including full field (ff-ERG), multifocal (mf-ERG) and pattern (p-ERG). p-ERG represents a valuable tool to monitor Retinal Ganglion Cells (RGCs) activity and can be used to calculate p-ERG spatial acuity. Unfortunately, scarce methodological data are available regarding recording/interpretation of p-ERG and retinal acuity in biomedical pigs yet enhancing knowledge regarding pig vision physiology will allow for more refined and responsible use of such species. Aim of this study was to record p-ERG in juvenile pigs to functionally assess visual acuity. Six female hybrid pigs underwent two p-ERG recording sessions at 16 and 19 weeks of age. Photopic ff-ERG were also recorded; optical coherence tomography (OCT) and histology were used to confirm retinal integrity. ff-ERG signals were repeatable within/across sessions. All p-ERG traces consistently displayed characterizing peaks, and the progressive decrease of amplitude in response to the increment of spatial frequency revealed the reliability of the method. Mean p-ERG spatial acuities were 5.7 ± 0.14 (16 weeks) and 6.2 ± 0.15 cpd (19 weeks). Overall, the p-ERG recordings described in the present work seem reliable and repeatable, and may represent an important tool when it comes to vision assessment in pigs.
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Klionsky DJ, Petroni G, Amaravadi RK, Baehrecke EH, Ballabio A, Boya P, Bravo‐San Pedro JM, Cadwell K, Cecconi F, Choi AMK, Choi ME, Chu CT, Codogno P, Colombo M, Cuervo AM, Deretic V, Dikic I, Elazar Z, Eskelinen E, Fimia GM, Gewirtz DA, Green DR, Hansen M, Jäättelä M, Johansen T, Juhász G, Karantza V, Kraft C, Kroemer G, Ktistakis NT, Kumar S, Lopez‐Otin C, Macleod KF, Madeo F, Martinez J, Meléndez A, Mizushima N, Münz C, Penninger JM, Perera R, Piacentini M, Reggiori F, Rubinsztein DC, Ryan K, Sadoshima J, Santambrogio L, Scorrano L, Simon H, Simon AK, Simonsen A, Stolz A, Tavernarakis N, Tooze SA, Yoshimori T, Yuan J, Yue Z, Zhong Q, Galluzzi L, Pietrocola F. Autophagy in major human diseases. EMBO J 2021; 40:e108863. [PMID: 34459017 PMCID: PMC8488577 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021108863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 681] [Impact Index Per Article: 227.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a core molecular pathway for the preservation of cellular and organismal homeostasis. Pharmacological and genetic interventions impairing autophagy responses promote or aggravate disease in a plethora of experimental models. Consistently, mutations in autophagy-related processes cause severe human pathologies. Here, we review and discuss preclinical data linking autophagy dysfunction to the pathogenesis of major human disorders including cancer as well as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic, pulmonary, renal, infectious, musculoskeletal, and ocular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Petroni
- Department of Radiation OncologyWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Ravi K Amaravadi
- Department of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
- Abramson Cancer CenterUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Eric H Baehrecke
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer BiologyUniversity of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMAUSA
| | - Andrea Ballabio
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and MedicinePozzuoliItaly
- Department of Translational Medical SciencesSection of PediatricsFederico II UniversityNaplesItaly
- Department of Molecular and Human GeneticsBaylor College of Medicine, and Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research InstituteTexas Children HospitalHoustonTXUSA
| | - Patricia Boya
- Margarita Salas Center for Biological ResearchSpanish National Research CouncilMadridSpain
| | - José Manuel Bravo‐San Pedro
- Faculty of MedicineDepartment Section of PhysiologyComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
| | - Ken Cadwell
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball InstituteNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineNew York University Langone HealthNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Francesco Cecconi
- Cell Stress and Survival UnitCenter for Autophagy, Recycling and Disease (CARD)Danish Cancer Society Research CenterCopenhagenDenmark
- Department of Pediatric Onco‐Hematology and Cell and Gene TherapyIRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's HospitalRomeItaly
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’RomeItaly
| | - Augustine M K Choi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care MedicineJoan and Sanford I. Weill Department of MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- New York‐Presbyterian HospitalWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Mary E Choi
- New York‐Presbyterian HospitalWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionJoan and Sanford I. Weill Department of MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Charleen T Chu
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPAUSA
| | - Patrice Codogno
- Institut Necker‐Enfants MaladesINSERM U1151‐CNRS UMR 8253ParisFrance
- Université de ParisParisFrance
| | - Maria Isabel Colombo
- Laboratorio de Mecanismos Moleculares Implicados en el Tráfico Vesicular y la Autofagia‐Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM)‐Universidad Nacional de CuyoCONICET‐ Facultad de Ciencias MédicasMendozaArgentina
| | - Ana Maria Cuervo
- Department of Developmental and Molecular BiologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNYUSA
- Institute for Aging StudiesAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNYUSA
| | - Vojo Deretic
- Autophagy Inflammation and Metabolism (AIMCenter of Biomedical Research ExcellenceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences CenterAlbuquerqueNMUSA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and MicrobiologyUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences CenterAlbuquerqueNMUSA
| | - Ivan Dikic
- Institute of Biochemistry IISchool of MedicineGoethe UniversityFrankfurt, Frankfurt am MainGermany
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life SciencesGoethe UniversityFrankfurt, Frankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Zvulun Elazar
- Department of Biomolecular SciencesThe Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | | | - Gian Maria Fimia
- Department of Molecular MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
- Department of EpidemiologyPreclinical Research, and Advanced DiagnosticsNational Institute for Infectious Diseases ‘L. Spallanzani’ IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - David A Gewirtz
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologySchool of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVAUSA
| | - Douglas R Green
- Department of ImmunologySt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTNUSA
| | - Malene Hansen
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery InstituteProgram of DevelopmentAging, and RegenerationLa JollaCAUSA
| | - Marja Jäättelä
- Cell Death and MetabolismCenter for Autophagy, Recycling & DiseaseDanish Cancer Society Research CenterCopenhagenDenmark
- Department of Cellular and Molecular MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Terje Johansen
- Department of Medical BiologyMolecular Cancer Research GroupUniversity of Tromsø—The Arctic University of NorwayTromsøNorway
| | - Gábor Juhász
- Institute of GeneticsBiological Research CenterSzegedHungary
- Department of Anatomy, Cell and Developmental BiologyEötvös Loránd UniversityBudapestHungary
| | | | - Claudine Kraft
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyZBMZFaculty of MedicineUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
- CIBSS ‐ Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling StudiesUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des CordeliersEquipe Labellisée par la Ligue Contre le CancerUniversité de ParisSorbonne UniversitéInserm U1138Institut Universitaire de FranceParisFrance
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology PlatformsInstitut Gustave RoussyVillejuifFrance
- Pôle de BiologieHôpital Européen Georges PompidouAP‐HPParisFrance
- Suzhou Institute for Systems MedicineChinese Academy of Medical SciencesSuzhouChina
- Karolinska InstituteDepartment of Women's and Children's HealthKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | | | - Sharad Kumar
- Centre for Cancer BiologyUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSAAustralia
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Carlos Lopez‐Otin
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología MolecularFacultad de MedicinaInstituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias (IUOPA)Universidad de OviedoOviedoSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC)MadridSpain
| | - Kay F Macleod
- The Ben May Department for Cancer ResearchThe Gordon Center for Integrative SciencesW‐338The University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
- The University of ChicagoChicagoILUSA
| | - Frank Madeo
- Institute of Molecular BiosciencesNAWI GrazUniversity of GrazGrazAustria
- BioTechMed‐GrazGrazAustria
- Field of Excellence BioHealth – University of GrazGrazAustria
| | - Jennifer Martinez
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease LaboratoryNational Institute of Environmental Health SciencesNIHResearch Triangle ParkNCUSA
| | - Alicia Meléndez
- Biology Department, Queens CollegeCity University of New YorkFlushingNYUSA
- The Graduate Center Biology and Biochemistry PhD Programs of the City University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Noboru Mizushima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyGraduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Christian Münz
- Viral ImmunobiologyInstitute of Experimental ImmunologyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Josef M Penninger
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA)Vienna BioCenter (VBC)ViennaAustria
- Department of Medical GeneticsLife Sciences InstituteUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBCCanada
| | - Rushika M Perera
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Department of PathologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Mauro Piacentini
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Rome “Tor Vergata”RomeItaly
- Laboratory of Molecular MedicineInstitute of Cytology Russian Academy of ScienceSaint PetersburgRussia
| | - Fulvio Reggiori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & SystemsMolecular Cell Biology SectionUniversity of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - David C Rubinsztein
- Department of Medical GeneticsCambridge Institute for Medical ResearchUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- UK Dementia Research InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Kevin M Ryan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson InstituteGlasgowUK
- Institute of Cancer SciencesUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Junichi Sadoshima
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular MedicineCardiovascular Research InstituteRutgers New Jersey Medical SchoolNewarkNJUSA
| | - Laura Santambrogio
- Department of Radiation OncologyWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Luca Scorrano
- Istituto Veneto di Medicina MolecolarePadovaItaly
- Department of BiologyUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Hans‐Uwe Simon
- Institute of PharmacologyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Department of Clinical Immunology and AllergologySechenov UniversityMoscowRussia
- Laboratory of Molecular ImmunologyInstitute of Fundamental Medicine and BiologyKazan Federal UniversityKazanRussia
| | | | - Anne Simonsen
- Department of Molecular MedicineInstitute of Basic Medical SciencesUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
- Centre for Cancer Cell ReprogrammingInstitute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
- Department of Molecular Cell BiologyInstitute for Cancer ResearchOslo University Hospital MontebelloOsloNorway
| | - Alexandra Stolz
- Institute of Biochemistry IISchool of MedicineGoethe UniversityFrankfurt, Frankfurt am MainGermany
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life SciencesGoethe UniversityFrankfurt, Frankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Nektarios Tavernarakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyFoundation for Research and Technology‐HellasHeraklion, CreteGreece
- Department of Basic SciencesSchool of MedicineUniversity of CreteHeraklion, CreteGreece
| | - Sharon A Tooze
- Molecular Cell Biology of AutophagyThe Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Tamotsu Yoshimori
- Department of GeneticsGraduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Department of Intracellular Membrane DynamicsGraduate School of Frontier BiosciencesOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science DivisionInstitute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI)Osaka UniversitySuitaJapan
| | - Junying Yuan
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and ChemistryShanghai Institute of Organic ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- Department of Cell BiologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Zhenyu Yue
- Department of NeurologyFriedman Brain InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Qing Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of EducationDepartment of PathophysiologyShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU‐SM)ShanghaiChina
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation OncologyWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew YorkNYUSA
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer CenterNew YorkNYUSA
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- Department of DermatologyYale School of MedicineNew HavenCTUSA
- Université de ParisParisFrance
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Retinal and cortical visual acuity in a common inbred albino mouse. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0242394. [PMID: 34048428 PMCID: PMC8162811 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
While albino mice are widely used in research which includes the use of visually guided behavioral tests, information on their visual capability is scarce. We compared the spatial resolution (acuity) of albino mice (BALB/c) with that of pigmented mice (C57BL/6J). We used a high-throughput pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and pattern visual evoked potential (PVEP) method for objective assessment of retinal and cortical acuity, as well as optomotor head-tracking response/ reflex (OMR). We found that PERG, PVEP, and OMR acuities of C57BL/6J mice were all in the range of 0.5-0.6 cycles/degree (cyc/deg). BALB/c mice had PERG and PVEP acuities in the range of 0.1-0.2 cyc/deg but were unresponsive to OMR stimulus. Results indicate that retinal and cortical acuity can be reliably determined with electrophysiological methods in BALB/c mice, although PERG/PVEP acuities are lower than those of C57BL/6J mice. The reduced acuity of BALB/c mice appears to be primarily determined at retinal level.
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Jnawali A, Lin X, Patel NB, Frishman LJ, Ostrin LA. Retinal ganglion cell ablation in guinea pigs. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108339. [PMID: 33127343 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Guinea pigs are a common model of human ocular conditions; however, their visual function has not been fully characterized. The purpose of this study was to determine the contributions of retinal ganglion cells to structural and functional measures in guinea pigs. Healthy adult guinea pigs (n = 12) underwent unilateral optic nerve crush. Retinal structure was assessed with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), and thickness of the ganglion cell/nerve fiber layer (GC/NFL) was determined. Visual function was assessed with optomotor tracking of a drifting grating and light adapted electroretinograms (ERGs). From flash ERGs, a-wave, b-wave, oscillatory potentials (OPs), and photopic negative response (PhNR) were analyzed. From pattern ERGs, N1P1 and P1N2 were analyzed. Histological studies were done at various time points for ganglion cell quantification. Optomotor tracking was absent in optic nerve crush eyes following optic nerve crush. Significant thinning of the GC/NFL was evident four weeks following the crush. Flash ERGs revealed a significant reduction in the OP1 amplitude two weeks following crush (P < 0.01) and in the PhNR amplitude six weeks following crush (P < 0.01). There were no significant changes in a-wave, b-wave, or pattern ERG responses (P > 0.05 for all). In vivo OCT imaging showed progressive thinning of inner retinal layers. Ganglion cell density, quantified histologically, was significantly reduced by 75% in the optic nerve crush eye compared to the control eye at four weeks following crush. These findings indicate that retinal ganglion cells contribute to the PhNR and OP1 components of the full field flash ERG, but not significantly to the pattern ERG in guinea pigs. This study demonstrates that OCT imaging and full field flash ERGs are valuable in assessing retinal ganglion cell loss in vivo in guinea pigs and will help to further establish the guinea pig as a model of human ocular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Jnawali
- College of Optometry University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX, 77096, USA.
| | - Xiao Lin
- College of Optometry University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX, 77096, USA.
| | - Nimesh B Patel
- College of Optometry University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX, 77096, USA.
| | - Laura J Frishman
- College of Optometry University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX, 77096, USA.
| | - Lisa A Ostrin
- College of Optometry University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX, 77096, USA.
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A Chronic Ocular-Hypertensive Rat Model induced by Injection of the Sclerosant Agent Polidocanol in the Aqueous Humor Outflow Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133209. [PMID: 31261943 PMCID: PMC6650807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To induce a moderate chronic ocular hypertension (OHT) by injecting polidocanol, a foamed sclerosant drug, in the aqueous humor outflow pathway. Methods: Intraocular pressure (IOP) was monitored for up to 6 months. Pattern and full-field electroretinogram (PERG and ERG) were recorded and retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were assessed in vivo with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ex vivo using Brn3a immunohistochemistry. Results: In the first 3 weeks post-injection, a significant IOP elevation was observed in the treated eyes (18.47 ± 3.36 mmHg) when compared with the control fellow eyes (12.52 ± 2.84 mmHg) (p < 0.05). At 8 weeks, 65% (11/17) of intervention eyes had developed an IOP increase >25% over the baseline. PERG responses were seen to be significantly reduced in the hypertensive eyes (2.25 ± 0.24 µV) compared to control eyes (1.44 ± 0.19 µV) (p < 0.01) at week 3, whereas the ERG components (photoreceptor a-wave and bipolar cell b-wave) remained unaltered. By week 24, RNFL thinning and cell loss in the ganglion cell layer was first detected (2/13, 15.3%) as assessed by OCT and light microscopy. Conclusions: This novel OHT rat model, with moderate levels of chronically elevated IOP, and abnormal PERG shows selective functional impairment of RGC.
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Dibas A, Millar C, Al-Farra A, Yorio T. Neuroprotective Effects of Psalmotoxin-1, an Acid-Sensing Ion Channel (ASIC) Inhibitor, in Ischemia Reperfusion in Mouse Eyes. Curr Eye Res 2018; 43:921-933. [PMID: 29595330 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1454478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the current study is to assess changes in the expression of Acid-Sensing Ion Channel (ASIC)1a and ASIC2 in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after retinal ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury and to test if inhibition of ASIC1a provides RGC neuroprotection. METHODS Transient ischemia was induced in one eye of C57BL/6 mice by raising intraocular pressure to 120 mmHg for 60 min followed by retinal reperfusion by restoring normal pressure. RGC function was measured by Pattern electroretinography (PERG). In addition, retinal ASIC1a and ASIC2 were observed by immunohistochemistry and western blot. Changes in calpain, fodrin, heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), Brn3a, super oxide dismutase-1 (SOD1), catalase, and glutathione perioxidase-4 (GPX4) protein levels were assessed by western blot. RGC numbers were measured by immunohistochemistry on whole retinal flat mounts using anti-RNA binding protein with multiple splicing (RBPMS) antibodies. Intravitreal injection of psalmotoxin-1, a selective ASIC1a blocker, was used to assess the neuroprotective effect of ASIC1a inhibition. RESULTS Levels of ASIC1a and ASIC2 after I/R increased in RGCs. Upregulation of ASIC1a but not ASIC2 was attenuated by intravitreal injection of psalmotoxin-1. I/R induced activation of calpain and degradation of fodrin, HSP70, and reduction in Brn3a. In contrast, while psalmotoxin-1 attenuated calpain activation and increased Brn3a levels, it failed to block HSP70 degradation. Unlike SOD1 protein which was reduced, catalase protein levels increased after I/R. Psalmotoxin-1, although not affecting SOD1 and GPX4, increased catalase levels significantly. Psalmotoxin-1 also increased RBPMS-labeled RGCs following I/R as judged by immunohistochemistry of retinal flat mounts. Finally, psalmotoxin-1 enhanced the amplitude of PERG following I/R, suggesting partial rescue of RGC function. CONCLUSION Psalmotoxin-1 appears to exert a neuroprotective effect under ischemic insults and targeting inhibition of ASICs may represent a new therapeutic approach in ischemic retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Dibas
- a North Texas Eye Research Institute, Dept. of Pharmacology & Neuroscience , University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth , TX , USA
| | - Cameron Millar
- a North Texas Eye Research Institute, Dept. of Pharmacology & Neuroscience , University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth , TX , USA
| | | | - Thomas Yorio
- a North Texas Eye Research Institute, Dept. of Pharmacology & Neuroscience , University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth , TX , USA
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Barloscio D, Cerri E, Domenici L, Longhi R, Dallanoce C, Moretti M, Vilella A, Zoli M, Gotti C, Origlia N. In vivo study of the role of α6-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in retinal function using subtype-specific RDP-MII(E11R) toxin. FASEB J 2016; 31:192-202. [PMID: 27682206 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201600855r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Although α6-contaning (α6*) nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are densely expressed in the visual system, their role is not well known. We have characterized a family of toxins that are antagonists for α6β2* receptors and used one of these [RDP-MII(E11R)] to localize α6* nAChRs and investigate their impact on retinal function in adult Long-Evans rats. The α6*nAChRs in retinal tissue were localized using either a fluorescently tagged [RDP-MII(E11R)] or anti-α6-specific antibodies and found to be predominantly at the level of the ganglion cell layer. After intraocular injection of RDP-MII(E11R) in one eye and vehicle or inactive MII in contralateral eyes as controls, we recorded flash electroretinograms (F-ERGs), pattern ERGs (P-ERGs), and cortical visual-evoked potential (VEPs). There was no significant difference in F-ERG between the RDP-MII(E11R)-treated and control eyes. In contrast, P-ERG response amplitude was significantly reduced in the RDP-MII(E11R)-injected eye. Blocking α6* nAChRs at retinal level also decreased the VEP amplitude recorded in the visual cortex contralateral to the injected eye. Because both the cortical and inner retina output were affected by RDP-MII(E11R), whereas photoreceptor output was preserved, we conclude that the reduced visual response was due to an alteration in the function of α6* nAChRs present in the ganglion cell layer.-Barloscio, D., Cerri, E., Domenici, L., Longhi, R., Dallanoce, C., Moretti, M., Vilella, A., Zoli, M., Gotti, C., and Origlia, N. In vivo study of the role of α6-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in retinal function using subtype-specific RDP-MII(E11R) toxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Barloscio
- National Research Council (CNR) Neuroscience Institute-Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Cerri
- National Research Council (CNR) Neuroscience Institute-Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luciano Domenici
- National Research Council (CNR) Neuroscience Institute-Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Renato Longhi
- CNR Institute of Chemistry of Molecular Recognition, Milan, Italy
| | - Clelia Dallanoce
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Medicinal Chemistry "Pietro Pratesi," University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Milena Moretti
- CNR Neuroscience Institute-Milano, Biometra University of Milan, Milan, Italy; and
| | - Antonietta Vilella
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Michele Zoli
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gotti
- CNR Neuroscience Institute-Milano, Biometra University of Milan, Milan, Italy; and
| | - Nicola Origlia
- National Research Council (CNR) Neuroscience Institute-Pisa, Pisa, Italy;
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Integrative properties of retinal ganglion cell electrical responsiveness depend on neurotrophic support and genotype in the mouse. Exp Eye Res 2015; 145:68-74. [PMID: 26614910 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Early stages of glaucoma and optic neuropathies are thought to show inner retina remodeling and functional changes of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) before they die. To assess RGC functional plasticity, we investigated the contrast-gain control properties of the pattern electroretinogram (PERG), a sensitive measure of RGC function, as an index of spatio-temporal integration occurring in the inner retina circuitry subserving PERG generators. We studied the integrative properties of the PERG in mice exposed to different conditions of neurotrophic support. We also investigated the effect of genotypic differences among mouse strains with different susceptibility to glaucoma (C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, DBA/2.Gpnmb(+)). Results show that the integrative properties of the PERG recorded in the standard C57BL/6J inbred mouse strain are impaired after deficit of neurotrophic support and partially restored after exogenous neurotrophic administration. Changes in PERG amplitude, latency, and contrast-dependent responses differ between mouse strains with different susceptibility to glaucoma. Results represent a proof of concept that the PERG could be used as a tool for in-vivo monitoring of RGC functional plasticity before RGC death, the effect of neuroactive treatments, as well as for high-throughput tool for phenotypic screening of different mouse genotypes.
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10
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Porciatti V. Electrophysiological assessment of retinal ganglion cell function. Exp Eye Res 2015; 141:164-70. [PMID: 25998495 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The function of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) can be non-invasively assessed in experimental and genetic models of glaucoma by means of variants of the ERG technique that emphasize the activity of inner retina neurons. The best understood technique is the Pattern Electroretinogram (PERG) in response to contrast-reversing gratings or checkerboards, which selectively depends on the presence of functional RGCs. In glaucoma models, the PERG can be altered before histological loss of RGCs; PERG alterations may be either reversed with moderate IOP lowering or exacerbated with moderate IOP elevation. Under particular luminance-stimulus conditions, the Flash-ERG displays components that may reflect electrical activity originating in the proximal retina and be altered in some experimental glaucoma models (positive Scotopic Threshold response, pSTR; negative Scotopic Threshold Response, nSTR; Photopic Negative Response, PhNR; Oscillatory Potentials, OPs; multifocal ERG, mfERG). It is not yet known which of these components is most sensitive to glaucomatous damage. Electrophysiological assessment of RGC function appears to be a necessary outcome measure in experimental glaucoma models, which complements structural assessment and may even predict it. Neuroprotective strategies could be tested based on enhancement of baseline electrophysiological function that results in improved RGC survival. The use of electrophysiology in glaucoma models may be facilitated by specifically designed instruments that allow high throughput, robust assessment of electrophysiological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, McKnight Vision Research Center, 1638 NW 10th Ave., Miami, FL 33136, United States.
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11
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Domenici L, Origlia N, Falsini B, Cerri E, Barloscio D, Fabiani C, Sansò M, Giovannini L. Rescue of retinal function by BDNF in a mouse model of glaucoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115579. [PMID: 25536045 PMCID: PMC4275209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision loss in glaucoma is caused by progressive dysfunction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve atrophy. Here, we investigated the effectiveness of BDNF treatment to preserve vision in a glaucoma experimental model. As an established experimental model, we used the DBA/2J mouse, which develops chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation that mimics primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). IOP was measured at different ages in DBA/2J mice. Visual function was monitored using the steady-state Pattern Electroretinogram (P-ERG) and visual cortical evoked potentials (VEP). RGC alterations were assessed using Brn3 immunolabeling, and confocal microscope analysis. Human recombinant BDNF was dissolved in physiological solution (0.9% NaCl); the effects of repeated intravitreal injections and topical eye BDNF applications were independently evaluated in DBA/2J mice with ocular hypertension. BDNF level was measured in retinal homogenate by ELISA and western blot. We found a progressive decline of P-ERG and VEP responses in DBA/2J mice between 4 and 7 months of age, in relationship with the development of ocular hypertension and the reduction of Brn3 immunopositive RGCs. Conversely, repeated intravitreal injections (BDNF concentration = 2 µg/µl, volume = 1 µl, for each injection; 1 injection every four days, three injections over two weeks) and topical eye application of BDNF eye-drops (12 µg/µl, 5 µl eye-drop every 48 h for two weeks) were able to rescue visual responses in 7 month DBA/2J mice. In particular, BDNF topical eye treatment recovered P-ERG and VEP impairment increasing the number of Brn3 immunopositive RGCs. We showed that BDNF effects were independent of IOP reduction. Thus, topical eye treatment with BDNF represents a promisingly safe and feasible strategy to preserve visual function and diminish RGC vulnerability to ocular hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Domenici
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy; Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology (DISCAB), University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Nicola Origlia
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetto Falsini
- Institute of Ophthalmology, Policlinico Gemelli, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Cerri
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Davide Barloscio
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Carlotta Fabiani
- Neuroscience Institute of the National Council of Research (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Sansò
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Giovannini
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Xia X, Wen R, Chou TH, Li Y, Wang Z, Porciatti V. Protection of pattern electroretinogram and retinal ganglion cells by oncostatin M after optic nerve injury. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108524. [PMID: 25243471 PMCID: PMC4171539 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Injury to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons leads to selective loss of RGCs and vision. Previous studies have shown that exogenous neurotrophic factors promote RGC survival. We investigated the neuroprotective effects of oncostatin M (OSM), a member of the IL-6 family of cytokines, on pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and RGC survival after optic nerve crush (ON-crush) in the mouse. BALB/C mice received ON-crush in the left eyes for either 4-second or 1-second duration (4-s or 1-s). Fluoro-gold retrograde labeling was used to identify RGCs. RGC function was assessed by PERG measurement. OSM or CNTF protein was injected intravitreally immediately after ON-crush. OSM responsive cells were identified by localization of increased STAT3 phosphorylation. Significant higher RGC survival (46% of untreated control) was seen in OSM-treated eyes when assessed 2 weeks after 4-s ON-crush as compared to that (14% of untreated control) of the PBS-treated eyes (P<0.001). In addition, PERG amplitude was significantly higher in eyes treated with OSM or CNTF 1 week after 1-s ON-crush (36% of baseline) as compared with the amplitude of PBS-treated eyes (19% of the baseline, P = 0.003). An increase in STAT3 phosphorylation was localized in Müller layer after OSM treatment, suggesting that Müller cells mediate the effect of OSM. Our results demonstrate that one single injection of either OSM or CNTF after ON-crush improves RGC survival together with their electrophysiological activity. These data provide proof-of-concept for using neurotrophic factors OSM and CNTF for RGC degenerative diseases, including glaucoma and acute optic nerve trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xia
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai First People’s Hospital, Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Wen
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Yiwen Li
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Zhengying Wang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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13
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Chou TH, Tomarev S, Porciatti V. Transgenic mice expressing mutated Tyr437His human myocilin develop progressive loss of retinal ganglion cell electrical responsiveness and axonopathy with normal iop. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:5602-9. [PMID: 25125600 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-14793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize age-related changes of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function, IOP, and anatomical markers of axon/glia integrity in a transgenic mouse expressing Tyr437His mutant of human myocilin protein. METHODS Retinal ganglion cell electrical responsiveness was tested with pattern electroretinogram (PERG) in 11 transgenic mice expressing mutated myocilin at different ages over 18 months under ketamine/xylazine anesthesia. Twelve age-matched C57BL/6J mice also were tested as controls. Intraocular pressure was measured with a Tonolab tonometer. Immunohistochemistry for GFAP and neurofilament was performed on dissected optic nerve heads. RESULTS In transgenic mice expressing mutated myocilin, the PERG amplitude progressively decreased with increasing age by approximately 50%, whereas the PERG peak latency increased by approximately 40 ms (ANOVA, P < 0.05). In contrast, PERGs of young and old control mice had similar amplitudes and peak latencies. In transgenic mice, GFAP staining was more intense and extended than in control mice, and increased with increasing age; neurofilament staining showed swollen and partially degenerated axons in old transgenic mice. The IOP of young transgenic mice was similar to that of control mice and did not significantly change with increasing age. CONCLUSIONS Transgenic mice expressing mutated human myocilin display progressive age-related changes in RGC electrical responsiveness that are not associated with IOP elevation but are associated with marked astrogliosis and axonopathy. Our results support the view that MYOC expression in the optic nerve may impact structural, metabolic, or neurotrophic support to RGC axons, thereby influencing their susceptibility to glaucomatous damage independently of IOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Stanislav Tomarev
- Retinal Ganglion Cell Biology Section, Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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14
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Chou TH, Bohorquez J, Toft-Nielsen J, Ozdamar O, Porciatti V. Robust mouse pattern electroretinograms derived simultaneously from each eye using a common snout electrode. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:2469-75. [PMID: 24667861 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-13943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We recorded pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) simultaneously from each eye in mice using binocular stimulation and a common noncorneal electrode. METHODS The PERG was derived simultaneously from each eye in 71 ketamine/xylazine anesthetized mice (C57BL/6J, 4 months old) from subcutaneous needles (active, snout; reference, back of the head; ground, root of the tail) in response to contrast-reversal of gratings (0.05 cycles/deg, >95% contrast) generated on two custom-made light-emitting diode (LED) tablets alternating at slight different frequencies (OD, 0.984 Hz; OS, 0.992 Hz). Independent PERG signals from each eye were retrieved using one channel continuous acquisition and phase-locking average (OD, 369 epochs of 492 ms; OS, 372 epochs of 496 ms). The PERG was the average of three consecutive repetitions. RESULTS Binocular snout PERGs had high amplitude (mean, 25.3 μV, SD 6.6) and no measurable interocular cross-talk. Responses were reliable (test-retest variability within-session, 14%, SD 7; between sessions, 25%, SD 9; interocular asymmetry within-session, 9%, SD 7; between sessions, 13%, SD 5). Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were the main source of the binocular snout PERG, as optic nerve crush in three mice abolished the signal. CONCLUSIONS The PERG, a sensitive measure of RGC function, is used increasingly in mouse models of glaucoma and optic nerve disease. Compared to current methods, the binocular snout PERG represents a substantial improvement in terms of simplicity and speed. It also overcomes limitations of corneal electrodes that interfere with invasive procedures of the eye and facilitates experiments based on comparison between the responses of the two eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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15
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Abstract
The clinical management of glaucoma and optic neuropathies has traditionally focused on stages of the diseases at which there are congruent losses of visual function and optic nerve tissue. Increasing clinical and experimental evidence suggests that the electrical activity of retinal ganglion cells, as measured by pattern electroretinogram (PERG), may be altered long before measurable changes in the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer. In addition, PERG alterations in early glaucoma may be either reversed by lowering the intraocular pressure or induced with head-down body posture. Here we apply the well-known concept of neural plasticity to model the reversible/inducible changes of retinal ganglion cell electrical activity during a critical period of dysfunction preceding death. Identification and characterization of this stage of modifiable retinal ganglion cell function represents both a rationale and a target for treatment to change the natural history of the disease.
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16
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Yang X, Chou TH, Ruggeri M, Porciatti V. A new mouse model of inducible, chronic retinal ganglion cell dysfunction not associated with cell death. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2013; 54:1898-904. [PMID: 23422821 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-11375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a mouse model of inducible, chronic retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dysfunction not associated with cell death. METHODS Eighteen C57BL/6J mice were longitudinally tested with pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) before and after aspiration of the contralateral superior colliculus (SC), which removed terminals of optic tract axons and the superficial layers of the SC. At the 4-month end points, retinas were harvested for Brn3b immunostaining and BDNF immunoblotting. RESULTS The PERG lost approximately 60% of its baseline amplitude (P < 0.01) within the first day after lesion, and remained at a reduced level over 4 months. At the end point, the density of Brn3b-positive RGCs was normal, but their nucleus size was reduced by approximately 24% (P < 001). OCT measurements showed thinning of the inner, but not outer, retina by approximately 9% (P < 0.01) starting 10 to 20 days after lesion. Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was unchanged. At the end point, retinal homogenates showed a substantial overexpression of BDNF protein level. CONCLUSIONS Mechanical SC lesion in adult mice results in a rapid, chronic loss of RGC electrical responsiveness that is followed by cell shrinkage but not cell death. The SC-lesion mouse represents a new, inducible model that allows investigating stages and mechanisms of RGC dysfunction without the confounding effects of cell death that are common in the existing models of optic neuropathies and optic nerve lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Yang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
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17
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Chou TH, Park KK, Luo X, Porciatti V. Retrograde signaling in the optic nerve is necessary for electrical responsiveness of retinal ganglion cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2013; 54:1236-43. [PMID: 23307964 PMCID: PMC3575158 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-11188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the role of retrograde signaling in the optic nerve on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) electrical responsiveness in the mouse model. METHODS Electrical response of RGC was measured by pattern electroretinogram (PERG) in 43 C57BL/6J mice 4 to 6 months old under ketamine/xylazine anesthesia. PERGs were recorded before and at different times after blockade of axon transport with lidocaine at either the retrobulbar level (2 μL, 40 μg/μL) or at level of the superior colliculus (SC, 1 μL, 40 μg/μL). PERGs also were recorded before and at different times after optic nerve crush 1.5 mm behind the eye, followed by TUJ1-positive RGC counts of excised retinas. As controls, PERGs also were recorded after either saline injections or sham optic nerve surgery. The photopic flash electroretinogram (FERG) and visual evoked potential (FVEP) also were recorded before lidocaine and at relevant times afterwards. RESULTS Lidocaine injection caused rapid (retrobulbar ~10 minutes, SC 1 hour), reversible reduction of PERG amplitude (≥50%). Optic nerve crush caused rapid (10-20 minutes), irreversible reduction of PERG amplitude (70-75%), increase of PERG latency (>25%), as well as RGC loss (88%) 1 month after crush. FVEP was unaltered by lidocaine. For all procedures, the FERG was unaltered. CONCLUSIONS As experimental interventions were made at postretinal level(s), PERG changes were likely associated with altered supply of retrogradely-delivered material from the SC. This implies that retrograde transport of target-derived molecules is necessary for normal RGC electrical responsiveness. The time course of early PERG changes is consistent with the speed of fast retrograde axon transport.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin K. Park
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Xueting Luo
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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18
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Chou TH, Porciatti V. The bioelectric field of the pattern electroretinogram in the mouse. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2012; 53:8086-92. [PMID: 23150622 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-10720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the bioelectric field associated with the pattern electroretinogram (PERG) with that of the flash electroretinogram (FERG) in the mouse. METHODS PERGs and FERGs were recorded from each eye in 32 C57BL/6J mice using corneal silver loops referenced to a subcutaneous needle on the back of the head. PERG stimuli were horizontal gratings of 0.05 cycles per degree and 98% contrast reversing 2 times per second. Light-adapted FERG stimuli were bright strobe flashes. Stimuli were presented either monocularly or binocularly. In some experiments, TTX was injected in one eye and saline in the contralateral eye. RESULTS The PERG recorded from the contralateral, occluded eye had slightly larger amplitude (1.14 ×, P < 0.01) and longer latency (+1.57 ms, P < 0.01) compared with the ipsilateral eye. Under binocular stimulation, the PERG amplitude was much larger (1.67 ×, P < 0.01) than the monocular amplitude. TTX injected in the stimulated eye drastically reduced the PERG in both eyes. Monocular FERGs were recordable from the stimulated eye only and were moderately reduced by TTX. Binocular and monocular FERGs had similar amplitudes. CONCLUSIONS PERG and FERG generate different bioelectric fields in the mouse. The PERG bioelectric field is consistent with a dipole model whose axis is orthogonal to the eye axis, whereas the standard dipole model for the FERG is coaxial. Possible sources of the PERG bioelectric field are unmyelinated optic nerve axons adjacent to the sclera. Results provide new insights on the generators of the PERG signal and its alterations in mouse models of glaucoma and optic nerve diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
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Luo X, Frishman LJ. Retinal pathway origins of the pattern electroretinogram (PERG). Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:8571-84. [PMID: 21948546 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-8376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine retinal pathway origins of pattern electroretinogram (PERG) in macaque monkeys using pharmacologic dissections, uniform-field flashes, and PERG simulations. METHODS Transient (2 Hz, 4 reversals/s) and steady state (8.3 Hz, 16.6 reversals/s) PERGs and uniform-field ERGs were recorded before and after intravitreal injections of L-AP4 (not APB) (2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid, 1.6-2.0 mM), to prevent ON pathway responses; PDA (cis-2,3-piperidinedicarboxylic acid, 3.3-3.8 mM), to block activity of hyperpolarizing second- and all third-order retinal neurons; and TTX (tetrodotoxin, 6 μM), to block Na+-dependent spiking. PERGs were also recorded from macaques with advanced unilateral experimental glaucoma, and were simulated by averaging ON and OFF responses to uniform-field flashes. RESULTS For 2-Hz stimulation, L-AP4 reduced both negative- and positive-going (N95 and P50) amplitudes in transient PERGs, and their counterparts, N2 and P1 in simulations, to half-amplitude. PDA eliminated N95 and N2, but increased P50 and P1 amplitudes, in that it enhanced b-waves. As previously reported, severe experimental glaucoma or TTX eliminated photopic negative responses, N95, and N2; glaucoma eliminated P50 and reduced P1 amplitude; TTX reduced P50 and hardly altered P1. For 8.3-Hz stimulation, L-AP4 eliminated the steady state PERG and reduced simulated PERG amplitude, whereas PDA enhanced both responses. TTX reduced PERG amplitude to less than half; simulations were less reduced. Blockade of all postreceptoral activity eliminated transient and steady state PERGs, but left small residual P1 in simulations. CONCLUSIONS Transient PERG receives nearly equal amplitude contributions from ON and OFF pathways. N95 reflects spiking activity of ganglion cells; P50 reflects nonspiking activity as well. Steady state PERG, in contrast, reflects mainly spike-related ON pathway activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xunda Luo
- University of Houston College of Optometry, Houston, Texas 77204-2020, USA
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20
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Porciatti V, Chou TH, Feuer WJ. C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, and DBA/2J.Gpnmb mice have different visual signal processing in the inner retina. Mol Vis 2010; 16:2939-47. [PMID: 21203347 PMCID: PMC3013071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/26/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize differences in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in mouse strains relevant to disease models. C57BL/6J (B6) and DBA/2J (D2) are the two most common mouse strains; D2 has two mutated genes, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (Tyrp1) and glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma protein B (Gpnmb), causing iris disease and intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation after 6 months of age that results in RGC degeneration, and is the most widely used model of glaucoma. DBA/2J.Gpnmb(+) (D2.Gpnmb(+)) is the wild type for the Gpnmb mutation and does not develop IOP elevation and glaucoma. METHODS Young (2-4 months of age) B6, D2, and D2.Gpnmb(+) mice (n=6 for each group) were tested with pattern electroretinogram (PERG) in response to different contrasts and spatial frequencies. PERG amplitude and latency dependencies on stimulus parameters (transfer functions) were established for each mouse strain, together with corresponding thresholds for contrast and spatial resolution. RESULTS PERG analysis showed that B6, D2, and D2.Gpnmb(+) mice had comparable contrast threshold and spatial resolution. Suprathreshold spatial contrast processing, however, had different characteristics in the three strains. PERG amplitude and latency changes with increasing contrast were different between B6 and D2 as well as between D2 and D2.Gpnmb(+). CONCLUSIONS B6, D2, and D2.Gpnmb(+) mice have different characteristics of PERG spatial contrast processing consistent with different mechanisms of contrast gain control. This may imply differences in the activity of underlying PERG generators and synaptic circuitry in the inner retina.
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Zaverucha-do-Valle C, Gubert F, Bargas-Rega M, Coronel JLL, Mesentier-Louro LA, Mencalha A, Abdelhay E, Santiago MF, Mendez-Otero R. Bone marrow mononuclear cells increase retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regeneration in the adult rat. Cell Transplant 2010; 20:391-406. [PMID: 20719093 DOI: 10.3727/096368910x524764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) of adult mammals generally does not regenerate, and many studies have attempted to identify factors that could increase neuroprotection and/or axonal outgrowth after CNS lesions. Using the optic nerve crush of rats as a model for CNS injury, we investigated the effect of intravitreal transplantation of syngeneic bone-marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) on the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and on the regeneration of optic axons. Control animals received intravitreal saline injections after lesion. Injections of BMMCs resulted in a 1.6-fold increase in the number of RGCs surviving 14 days after injury. The BMMC-treated animals also had increased numbers of axons, which grew up to 1.5 mm from the crush site, and also had reduced Müller glia activation. Analysis of mRNAs in all conditions revealed an increase in levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) mRNA in treated animals 14 days after injury. To investigate whether the regenerated axons could reach the brain, we retrograde labeled the RGCs by injecting a lipophilic tracer into the superior colliculus. We also analyzed the expression of NGFI-A in the superficial layers of the superior colliculus as a possible marker of synaptic input from RGC axons. We found evidence that more RGCs were able to reach the brain after treatment and we showed that NGFI-A expression was higher in the treated animals 60 days after injury. These results demonstrate that transplant of BMMCs can increase neuroprotection and neuroregeneration after injury in a model of optic nerve crush, and these effects could be mediated by FGF-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Zaverucha-do-Valle
- Programa de Terapia Celular and Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Head-up tilt lowers IOP and improves RGC dysfunction in glaucomatous DBA/2J mice. Exp Eye Res 2009; 90:452-60. [PMID: 20036238 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2009.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2009] [Revised: 12/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The inbred DBA/2J (D2) mouse strain is a well established model of spontaneously elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), progressive glaucomatous loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), and early damage of RGC axons at the level of optic nerve head. Pattern electroretinogram (PERG) studies have shown that surviving RGCs in mice 6-12-month-old may be dysfunctional. RGC dysfunction seems to be IOP-dependent, since it may be exacerbated by means of acute IOP elevation with head-down body tilt. Here we test the hypothesis that head-up body posture lowers IOP, resulting in improvement of PERG amplitude in aged D2 mice with glaucoma. We show that head-up body tilt induces age-independent IOP lowering whose magnitude increases with the angle of tilt. For a fixed angle (-60 degrees ) of head-up tilt, IOP progressively decreases with a time constant of about 5 min and stabilizes at a value lower by about 5-6 mm Hg compared to the baseline. Head-up tilt also results in an improvement of PERG amplitude in older D2 mice with glaucoma but not in younger D2 mice without glaucoma. Improvement of PERG amplitude in aged D2 mice upon head-up-induced IOP lowering is consistent with the idea that RGCs undergo a stage of IOP-dependent, reversible dysfunction before death. The head-up IOP/PERG protocol may represent a non-invasive way to probe the potential for recovery of RGC dysfunction in D2 mice.
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Miura G, Wang MH, Ivers KM, Frishman LJ. Retinal pathway origins of the pattern ERG of the mouse. Exp Eye Res 2009; 89:49-62. [PMID: 19250935 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2009.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2008] [Revised: 02/09/2009] [Accepted: 02/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated contributions from the retinal On and Off pathways, and the spiking and nonspiking activity of neurons in those pathways to the pattern ERG of the mouse. Light-adapted pattern and ganzfeld ERGs were recorded from anesthetized C57BL/6 mice 3-4 months of age. Recordings were made before and after intravitreal injections of PDA (cis-2,3-piperidine-dicarboxylic acid) to block transmission to hyperpolarizing 2nd order and all 3rd order neurons, TTX (tetrodotoxin) to block Na(+)-dependent spiking, APB (2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid) to block synapses between photoreceptors and ON-bipolar cells, and APB + TTX and PDA + TTX cocktails. The pattern stimuli consisted of 0.05 cy/deg gratings reversing in contrast at 1 Hz, presented at various contrasts (50-90%) and a rod saturating mean luminance. For flash ERGs, brief green ganzfeld flashes were presented on a rod-suppressing green background. Recordings were made 39-42 days after unilateral optic nerve crush (ONC) in a subset of animals in which ganglion cell degeneration was subsequently confirmed in retinal sections. Pattern ERGs were similar in waveform for all contrasts, with a positive wave (P1) peak for 90% contrast around 60 ms on average and maximum trough for a negative wave (N2) around 132 ms after each contrast reversal; amplitudes were greatest for 90% contrast which became the standard stimulus. ONC eliminated or nearly eliminated the pattern ERG but did not affect the major waves of the flash ERG. PDA and TTX both delayed P1 and N2 waves of the pattern ERG, and reduced their amplitudes, with effects of PDA on N2 greater than those of TTX. In the flash ERG, PDA reduced a-wave amplitudes, removed OPs but hardly affected b-wave amplitudes. In contrast, TTX reduced b-wave amplitudes substantially, as previously observed in rat. APB removed P1 of the pattern ERG, but left a negative wave of similar timing and amplitude to N2. In the flash ERG, APB removed the b-wave, producing a negative ERG. Addition of TTX to the APB injection removed most of N2 of the pattern ERG, while other waves of the pattern and flash ERG resembled those after APB alone. Addition of TTX to the PDA injection had little effect on the pattern ERG beyond that of PDA alone, but it prolonged the b-wave of the flash ERG. In conclusion, this study confirmed that a selective lesion of ganglion cells will practically eliminate the pattern ERG. The study also showed that P1 of the mouse pattern ERG is dominated by contributions, mainly spiking, from ON pathway neurons, whereas N2 reflects substantial spiking activity from the OFF pathway as well as nonspiking contributions from both pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Miura
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204-2020, USA
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Cho JH, Mu X, Wang SW, Klein WH. Retinal ganglion cell death and optic nerve degeneration by genetic ablation in adult mice. Exp Eye Res 2008; 88:542-52. [PMID: 19109949 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2008.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2008] [Revised: 11/05/2008] [Accepted: 11/12/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite the magnitude of the problem, no effective treatments exist to prevent retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and optic nerve degeneration from occurring in diseases affecting the human eye. Animal models currently available for developing treatment strategies suffer from cumbersome procedures required to induce RGC death or rely on mutations that induce defects in developing retinas rather than in mature retinas of adults. Our objective was to develop a robust genetically engineered adult mouse model for RGC loss and optic nerve degeneration based on genetic ablation. To achieve this, we took advantage of Pou4f2 (Brn3b), a gene activated immediately as RGCs begin to differentiate and expressed throughout life. We generated adult mice whose genomes harbored a conditional Pou4f2 allele containing a floxed-lacZ-stop-diphtheria toxin A cassette and a CAGG-Cre-ER transgene. In this bigenic model, Cre recombinase is fused to a modified estrogen nuclear receptor in which the estrogen-binding domain binds preferentially to the estrogen agonist tamoxifen rather than to endogenous estradiol. Upon binding to the estrogen-binding domain, tamoxifen derepresses Cre recombinase, leading to the efficient genomic deletion of the floxed-lacZ-stop DNA sequence and expression of diphtheria toxin A. Tamoxifen administered to adult mice at different ages by intraperitoneal injection led to rapid RGC loss, reactive gliosis, progressive degradation of the optic nerve over a period of several months, and visual impairment. Perhaps more reflective of human disease, partial loss of RGCs was achieved by modulating the tamoxifen treatment. Especially relevant for RGC death and optic nerve degeneration in human retinal pathologies, RGC-ablated retinas maintained their structural integrity, and other retinal neurons and their connections in the inner and outer plexiform layers appeared unaffected by RGC ablation. These events are hallmarks of progressive optic nerve degeneration observed in human retinal pathologies and demonstrate the validity of this model for use in developing stem cell therapies for replacing dead RGCs with healthy ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang-Hyeon Cho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Parisi V, Gallinaro G, Ziccardi L, Coppola G. Electrophysiological assessment of visual function in patients with non-arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy. Eur J Neurol 2008; 15:839-45. [PMID: 18557920 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2008.02200.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Our study aims to evaluate retinal function and neural conduction in post-retinal visual pathways of patients with non-arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy (NION). METHODS Twenty patients (mean age: 63.7 +/- 5.96 year) with NION and 20 age-similar control subjects were enrolled. Simultaneous recording of pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) and visual evoked potentials (VEPs), and Log of minimum angle resolution (MAR) visual acuity (VA) were assessed in NION patients and controls. RESULTS Significantly (ANOVA, P < 0.01) abnormal PERG and VEP responses, delayed retinocortical time (RCT, difference between VEP P100 and PERG P50 implicit times), and reduced VA were found in NION patients with respect to control subjects. The delay in RCT was not significantly (Pearson's test, P > 0.01) correlated with the PERG impairment. The reduction in VA was significantly (Pearson's test, P < 0.01) correlated to the increase in VEP P100 implicit time and RCT, whereas no correlations (P > 0.01) were found with PERG abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS Non-arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy patients with a reduction in VA may present two different, unrelated impairments: a dysfunction of the inner retinal layer (abnormal PERG) and abnormal post-retinal neural conduction (abnormal VEP and RCT). The reduction in VA seems to be related to the post-retinal impairment and seems to be independent from the retinal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Parisi
- Neurophthalmology Research Unit, G. B. Bietti Eye Foundation-IRCCS and University of Rome Campus Biomedico, Rome, Italy.
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Park YW, Chae SH, Lee JW, Kwon OJ, Shin JP, Jeon CJ, Kim SY. N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA)-induced Apoptosis in Rabbit Retina. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2008. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2008.49.7.1146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wook Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyungpook National University, College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sun Hwa Chae
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyungpook National University, College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Ji-Woong Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyungpook National University, College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Oh Ju Kwon
- Department of Ophthalmic Optics, Busan College of Information Technology, Pusan, Korea
| | - Jae Pil Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyungpook National University, College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chang Jin Jeon
- Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University, College of Natural Science, Daegu, Korea
| | - Si Yeol Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyungpook National University, College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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Saleh M, Nagaraju M, Porciatti V. Longitudinal evaluation of retinal ganglion cell function and IOP in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2007; 48:4564-72. [PMID: 17898279 PMCID: PMC2765717 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.07-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize progressive changes of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function and intraocular pressure (IOP) in the DBA/2J mouse model of spontaneous glaucoma. METHODS Serial pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) and IOPs measures were obtained from both eyes of 32 anesthetized DBA/2J mice over an age range of 2 to 12 months at 1-month intervals. Cone-driven flash-ERGs (FERGs) were also recorded. The endpoint was defined as the age at which the PERG amplitude reached the noise level in at least one eye. At that point, both eyes were histologically processed to evaluate the thickness of the retinal fiber layer (RNFL). RESULTS IOP increased moderately between 2 and 6 months ( approximately 14-17 mm Hg) and then more steeply, until it leveled off at approximately 28 mm Hg by 9 to 11 months. The mean PERG amplitude decreased progressively after 3 months of age to reach the noise level (85% reduction of normal amplitude) at approximately 9 to 12 months in different animals. When the PERG was at noise level, the RNFL showed a relatively smaller reduction (40%) in normal thickness. The FERG displayed minor changes throughout the observation period. IOP and PERG changes were highly correlated (r(2) = 0.51, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that inner retina function in DBA/2J mice progressively decreases after 3 months of age, and it is nearly abolished by 10 to 11 months, whereas outer retina function shows little change and the RNFL thickness is relatively spared. This result suggests that surviving RGCs may not be functional. Progression of inner retinal dysfunction is strongly associated with increased IOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maher Saleh
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Mahesh Nagaraju
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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Nagaraju M, Saleh M, Porciatti V. IOP-dependent retinal ganglion cell dysfunction in glaucomatous DBA/2J mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2007; 48:4573-9. [PMID: 17898280 PMCID: PMC2031015 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.07-0582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the effect of postural IOP elevation and pharmacological IOP lowering on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. METHODS Four groups of DBA/2J mice (3 months old, n = 7; 5 months old, n = 7; 10 months old, n = 7; and 11 months old, n = 8) were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection (0.6 mL/kg) of a mixture of ketamine (42.8 mg/mL), xylazine (8.5 mg/mL), and acepromazine (1.4 mg/mL). IOP and pattern electroretinogram (PERG) were sequentially measured with mice at 0 degrees (horizontal), 60 degrees head-down, and again at 0 degrees . IOP and PERG were also measured before and after intraperitoneal mannitol 25% (2.5 g/kg) administration with mice in a horizontal position. RESULTS The head-down position induced reversible IOP elevations of 32% to 38% in all age groups (P < 0.01), and age-dependent reductions of PERG amplitude (3 months: +3%; 5 months: -47%, P < 0.01; and 10 months: -65%, P < 0.01). Administration of mannitol to 11-month-old mice resulted in a reduction in IOP of approximately 38% (P < 0.01) and a PERG amplitude improvement of approximately 83% (P < 0.001). IOP and PERG amplitude changes were inversely correlated (10 months head-down r(2) = 0.58, P < 0.001; 10-month-old mannitol r(2) = 0.41, P < 0.001). For all conditions, the light-adapted flash ERG was unaltered. CONCLUSIONS In the DBA/2J mouse, RGC susceptibility to artificial IOP elevation increases with age. Abnormal RGC function in older mice may be improved with IOP lowering. Evaluation of PERG changes in response to artificial IOP modulation may represent a powerful tool to assess noninvasively RGCs' susceptibility to IOP insult in genetically distinct mouse models of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Nagaraju
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
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Péant C, Dosso A, Eder-Colli L, Chiodini F. Functional study in NSE-Hu-Bcl-2 transgenic mice: a model for retinal diseases starting in Müller cells. Doc Ophthalmol 2007; 115:203-9. [PMID: 17680287 DOI: 10.1007/s10633-007-9077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2007] [Accepted: 07/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In NSE-Hu-Bcl-2 transgenic mice, line 71, retina undergoes early postnatal degeneration linked to the prior death of Müller cells. The purpose of this study was to complete the characterization of this retinal dysfunction by using electroretinographic (ERG) recordings in both scotopic and photopic conditions. Here, we showed that both rod and cone systems were profoundly affected in NSE-Hu-Bcl-2 transgenic mice as soon as 15 postnatal days in accordance with histological study performed previously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Péant
- Department of Basic Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Abstract
Mouse models of optic nerve disease such as glaucoma, optic neuritis, ischemic optic neuropathy, and mitochondrial optic neuropathy are being developed at increasing rate to investigate specific pathophysiological mechanisms and the effect of neuroprotective treatments. The use of these models may be greatly enhanced by the availability of non-invasive methods able to monitor retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function longitudinally such as the Pattern Electroretinogram (PERG). While the use of the PERG as a tool to probe inner retina function in mammals is known since 25 years, relatively less information is available for the mouse. Here, the PERG technique and the main applications in the mouse are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Porciatti V, Saleh M, Nagaraju M. The pattern electroretinogram as a tool to monitor progressive retinal ganglion cell dysfunction in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2007; 48:745-51. [PMID: 17251473 PMCID: PMC1794678 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.06-0733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the baseline characteristics, reliability, and dynamic range of the pattern electroretinogram (PERG) as a tool to monitor progressive RGC dysfunction in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma with spontaneously elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS PERGs were recorded from 56 undilated eyes of 28 anesthetized (ketamine-xylazine-acepromazine) DBA/2J mice of different ages (2-4 months, n = 44 eyes; 12-14 months, n = 12 eyes) in response to contrast reversal of gratings that maximize PERG amplitude (95% contrast, 1-Hz reversal, 0.05 cyc/deg spatial frequency, 50 degrees x 56 degrees field size). Robust averaging (1800 sweeps) was used to isolate PERG from background noise. Cone-driven ERGs in response to diffuse light flashes superimposed on a rod-adapting background (FERG) were also recorded. RESULTS PERGs had consistent waveforms and were reproducible across batches of mice and operators. In 2- to 4-month-old mice (prehypertensive stage), the PERG amplitude (mean, 8.15 +/- 0.4 microV [SEM]) was considerably larger than the noise (mean 1.18 +/- 0.1 microV). The test-retest variability (two different sessions 1 week apart) and interocular asymmetry of PERG amplitude was approximately 30%, and that of PERG latency was approximately 17%. In 12- to 14-month-old mice (advanced hypertensive stage) the PERG amplitude (mean, 1.29 +/- 0.12 microV) was close to that of noise. In 12- to 14-month-old mice the FERG was reduced to a lesser extent compared with the PERG. CONCLUSIONS The PERG has an adequate signal-to-noise ratio, reproducibility, and dynamic range to monitor the progression of functional changes in the inner retina in DBA/2J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA.
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Sobrado-Calvo P, Vidal-Sanz M, Villegas-Pérez MP. Rat retinal microglial cells under normal conditions, after optic nerve section, and after optic nerve section and intravitreal injection of trophic factors or macrophage inhibitory factor. J Comp Neurol 2007; 501:866-78. [PMID: 17311318 DOI: 10.1002/cne.21279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Retinal microglial cells may have a role in both degeneration and neuroprotection of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) after optic nerve (ON) section. We have used NDPase enzymohistochemistry to label adult rat retinal microglial cells and have studied these cells under normal conditions, after left ON section, and after left ON section and eye puncture or intravitreal injection of different substances: vehicle, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin 3 (NT3), or macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF). Resident microglial cells are present in four layers in the adult rat retina: the nerve fiber layer (NFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), and outer plexiform layer (OPL). Left ON section induces microglial activation in the ipsilateral and contralateral retina as manifested by stronger staining intensity in both retinas and increased microglial cell densities in the NFL, IPL, and GCL of the ipsilateral retina. Left ON section followed by left eye puncture or intravitreal injection increases microglial cell density in both retinas and induces changes in the microglial cells of the ipsilateral retina that vary depending on the substance injected: BDNF injections delay microglial activation, possibly through retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection, whereas NT3 partially inhibits microglial activation in the NFL; MIF injections have no clear effects on microglial activation. In conclusion, retinal microglial cells become activated after an ON section and react more intensely when the eye is also punctured or injected, and this response may be altered by using neurotrophic factors, although the effects of MIF are less clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Sobrado-Calvo
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
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Ben-Shlomo G, Ofri R. Development of inner retinal function, evidenced by the pattern electroretinogram, in the rat. Exp Eye Res 2006; 83:417-23. [PMID: 16626702 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2006.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2005] [Revised: 01/09/2006] [Accepted: 01/11/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Though the rat is increasingly used as an animal model in ophthalmic research, including the study of glaucoma, little is known about age-related changes in its inner retinal function. The aim of this study was to evaluate these changes in the rat during the first 18 weeks of life. The pattern electroretinogram (PERG) was used to monitor inner retinal activity in 16 developing rats. In each animal, recordings were conducted at ages 3, 5, 7, 11, 14 and 18 weeks to assess age-related changes in function. Signals were evoked by five stimuli of progressively increasing check width (subtending 82-1312 arc minutes of visual angle) that were projected directly onto the fundus through a specially modified ophthalmoscope which allowed visual and manual control of stimulus quality. Poor signal:noise ratio prevented signal analysis at age 3 weeks. Subsequently, PERG amplitude increased significantly, up to 242% (depending on stimulus check width), during weeks 5-11. After peaking at 11 weeks, signal amplitude declined moderately. Signal latency mirrored that of amplitude, decreasing during the first 11 weeks, and then increasing steadily. Latency was not affected by stimulus check width. Age was highly correlated with P1 latency (R(2)=0.80) and moderately correlated with N2 latency (R(2)=0.52). Therefore, we propose that studies of inner retinal diseases (such as glaucoma) in the rat model should use age-matched controls, as electrophysiological results may be confounded by age-related changes. The rat PERG undergoes many of the age-related changes that have been reported in humans, and thus may serve as an animal model to study development of inner retinal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Ben-Shlomo
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, PO Box 12, Herzl Street, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Ben-Shlomo G, Bakalash S, Lambrou GN, Latour E, Dawson WW, Schwartz M, Ofri R. Pattern electroretinography in a rat model of ocular hypertension: functional evidence for early detection of inner retinal damage. Exp Eye Res 2005; 81:340-9. [PMID: 16129101 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2005.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2004] [Revised: 01/16/2005] [Accepted: 02/16/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
With the increasing use of the rat as an animal model for glaucoma and for the evaluation of neuroprotective treatments, there is a need for a sensitive test of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in this species. The aims of this study were to detect functional abnormalities of the inner retina in a rat model of high intraocular pressure (IOP) using the pattern electroretinogram (PERG), and to correlate them with morphometric analysis of RGC survival and the functional integrity of the inner retina. Unilateral ocular hypertension was induced in 17 Lewis rats through laser photocoagulation. Pattern ERGs were recorded prior to lasering and 3 weeks later, using a series of shifting patterns of decreasing spatial frequency projected directly onto the animals' fundus. IOP was measured at the same intervals, and the number of surviving RGCs estimated. Low amplitude PERG signals could be recorded in response to a narrow grating of 0.368 cycles per degree (cpd), and increased with stimulus size. Lasering caused mean (+/-s.d.) IOP to increase significantly from 18.3+/-4.5 (baseline) to 29.8+/-8.8 mmHg within 3 weeks (p<0.0001). At this time, PERG amplitudes were significantly reduced (p<0.05), declining an average of 45% compared to the normotensive, control eyes. No outer retinal damage was observed, but the mean number of RGCs decreased significantly (p<0.001), from 2 525.0+/-372.4 to 1 542.8+/-333.8 cells per mm2. This decrease in RGC number was significantly (p=0.03) correlated the decrease in PERG amplitude. The correlation between functional integrity of the inner retina and the rat PERG was further demonstrated by intravitreal tetrodotoxin injections, which temporarily abolished the PERG but did not affect outer retinal activity, reflected in the flash ERG. The evidence for early functional deficits, combined with tonometry and documentation of correlated ganglion cells loss, confirms the sensitivity of this diagnostic tool and the validity and importance of this animal model in glaucoma research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Ben-Shlomo
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Herzl Street, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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Ridder WH, Nusinowitz S. The visual evoked potential in the mouse--origins and response characteristics. Vision Res 2005; 46:902-13. [PMID: 16242750 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2005.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2005] [Revised: 09/05/2005] [Accepted: 09/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The visual evoked potential (VEP) in the mouse is characterized and compared to responses obtained with the electroretinogram (ERG). The results indicate that: 1, the VEP originates in the visual cortex; 2, the rod and cone pathways contribute separately to the VEP; 3, temporal tuning functions for rod and cone ERGs are low pass and band pass, respectively; VEP tuning functions are both band pass; and 4, VEP acuity is 0.62+/-0.156 cycles/degree. The differences in the spatial and temporal tuning functions obtained from the retina and visual cortex provides a tool to investigate signal processing through the visual system.
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Affiliation(s)
- W H Ridder
- Southern California College of Optometry, Fullerton, CA, USA
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Schmucker C, Schaeffel F. Contrast sensitivity of wildtype mice wearing diffusers or spectacle lenses, and the effect of atropine. Vision Res 2005; 46:678-87. [PMID: 15993919 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2005.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2005] [Revised: 04/22/2005] [Accepted: 04/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To find out how spatial vision in mice is affected by wearing of spectacle lenses or diffusers, and by atropine eye drops. This information is necessary to determine which treatments could effectively induce refractive errors in young mice. METHODS Whole-body optomotor responses were recorded by automated video analysis in freely ranging mice in a large rotating drum that was covered inside with vertical square-wave gratings with spatial frequencies of 0.03, 0.10 and 0.30 cyc/deg, both at "dim light" (0.10 cd/m(2)), and under photopic conditions (30 cd/m(2)). Contrast thresholds were determined by varying the contrasts of the gratings. Mice wore either no lenses, or binocular plano lenses, or lenses with powers ranging from +25 D to -25 D, or diffusers. In another experiment, contrast thresholds were determined 30 min after binocular installation of one drop of 1% atropine solution which is known to suppress myopia development in other animal models. RESULTS The range of spatial frequencies, at which the mice still responded to stripes with less than the maximal grating contrast, was rather small. At 0.03 cyc/deg, the mice responded to stripes with low contrast down to 24%. At 0.10 cyc/deg, the minimal contrast was 45%, but at 0.30 cyc/deg, only the maximum contrast elicited a significant response. In dim light, spatial vision was severely impaired and only the lowest spatial frequencies, presented at the highest contrast (91%), were detected. The whole-body optomotor response was largest with spectacle lens powers of plano diopters and +7D lenses. The magnitude of the response decreased symmetrically with increasing lens powers for both signs, providing information on the behavioral depth of field (a second-order fit through the data placed the extreme limits of a response at around +25 D and -25 D lens powers). Finally, atropine improved contrast sensitivity, at least at the lowest spatial frequency tested, a result that was previously obtained also in the chicken and could help to explain the inhibitory effect of atropine on myopia. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that mice have sufficient spatial vision to respond to treatment with powerful spectacle lenses or diffusers. Accordingly, these devices should be effective in inducing refractive errors in this animal model, although primarily under photopic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Schmucker
- Section of Neurobiology of the Eye, University Eye Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
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Porciatti V, Sorokac N, Buchser W. Habituation of retinal ganglion cell activity in response to steady state pattern visual stimuli in normal subjects. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2005; 46:1296-302. [PMID: 15790894 PMCID: PMC1351225 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.04-1242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate autoregulatory changes of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) activity, as measured by the pattern electroretinogram (PERG), when the eye is exposed to a steady state presentation of stimuli that maximize PERG amplitude and blood flow. METHODS The PERG was recorded from both eyes of 14 normal subjects in response to steady state presentation (4 minutes) of contrast-reversing (16.28/s) gratings (1.6 cyc/deg) with different contrast (12%-99%) and mean luminance (40-1.3 cd/m(2)). One temporal period of the stimulus (122.8 ms) was sampled and averaged in packets of 50 sweeps ( approximately 15 seconds each). PERG amplitude and phase were evaluated by Discrete Fourier Transform and displayed as a function of time. Data were fitted with an exponential decay function to evaluate PERG changes with time. RESULTS For patterns of 99% contrast, the PERG amplitude progressively decreased with time until reaching a plateau approximately 30% lower than the initial amplitude after approximately 2 minutes (habituation). The ratio between initial and plateau amplitude did not change by reducing the stimulus luminance by 1 log unit. However, reducing contrast decreased amplitude habituation. The habituation was abolished at 25% contrast. CONCLUSIONS Decrease of PERG amplitude with time is consistent with a slow adaptive change of RGC activity in response to high-contrast, steady state stimuli. The authors propose that the initial amplitude represents an index of RGC activity, and the plateau amplitude represents a dynamic equilibrium between RGC activity and the available energy supply. These results are relevant for a better understanding of glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.
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Ventura LM, Porciatti V. Restoration of retinal ganglion cell function in early glaucoma after intraocular pressure reduction: a pilot study. Ophthalmology 2005; 112:20-7. [PMID: 15629815 PMCID: PMC2756428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2004.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2003] [Accepted: 09/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the changes of pattern electroretinogram (PERG) after intraocular pressure lowering in glaucoma patients and normal controls. DESIGN Interventional retrospective cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-five patients (49 eyes) with ocular hypertension or glaucoma undergoing topical treatment to lower IOP served as a study group; 22 patients (44 eyes) with ocular hypertension or glaucoma observed without treatment served as a control group for treated glaucoma patients; 9 normal subjects (18 eyes) receiving a 250-mg acetazolamide tablet served as a second study group; and 17 normal subjects (34 eyes) from a previous study served as a second control group for treated normal subjects. METHOD Pattern electroretinograms were recorded simultaneously from both eyes using skin electrodes and automated analysis. Visual field (VF) analyses were performed with white-on-white standard automated perimetry (SAP). Intraocular pressure was measured with Goldmann applanation tonometry; central corneal thickness was measured with pachymetry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pattern electroretinogram amplitude (microvolts), phase (pi rads), and test-retest variability (test 2-to-test 1 ratio, in decibels), SAP mean deviation (decibels), and IOP (millimeters of mercury). RESULTS In 56% of right eyes and 21% of left eyes of the treated glaucoma subgroup, the PERG amplitude and/or phase improved beyond the 95% confidence intervals of the test-retest variability of the untreated glaucoma control group. Pattern electroretinogram improvement with IOP lowering occurred in both high- and low-tension glaucoma eyes. Eyes with severely impaired VFs showed little improvement in PERG; however, eyes of normal subjects treated with acetazolamide did not show significant PERG changes relative to the test-retest variability of normal controls. CONCLUSIONS Retinal ganglion cell function can be at least partially restored after IOP reduction in glaucomatous eyes with early VF impairment.
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Péquignot MO, Provost AC, Sallé S, Taupin P, Sainton KM, Marchant D, Martinou JC, Ameisen JC, Jais JP, Abitbol M. Major role of BAX in apoptosis during retinal development and in establishment of a functional postnatal retina. Dev Dyn 2004; 228:231-8. [PMID: 14517994 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.10376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a major role in the development of the central nervous system. Previous studies of apoptosis induction during retinal development are difficult to interpret, however, because they explored different mouse strains, different developmental periods, and used different assays. Here, we first established a comprehensive sequential pattern of cell death during the whole development of the C57BL/6J mouse retina, from E10.5 to postnatal day (P) 21 by using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) -mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP)-biotinylated nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. We confirmed the existence of three previously described apoptotic peaks and identified another, later peak at P15, in both the outer nuclear layer, in which the photoreceptors differentiate, and the ganglion cell layer. Comparison of wild-type C57BL/6 mice, gld mice, defective in the death ligand fasL, and bax-/- mice, defective in the pro-apoptotic BAX protein, revealed a minor role for FAS ligand but a crucial role for BAX in both apoptosis and normal retinal development. The lack of BAX resulted in thicker than normal inner neuroblastic and ganglion cell layers in adults, with larger numbers of cells and an impaired electroretinogram response related to a decreased number of responsive cells. Our findings indicate that cell death during normal retinal development is important for the modeling of a functional vision organ and showed that the pro-apoptotic BAX protein plays a crucial role in this process.
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Akhtar RS, Ness JM, Roth KA. Bcl-2 family regulation of neuronal development and neurodegeneration. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2004; 1644:189-203. [PMID: 14996503 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2003.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2003] [Accepted: 10/27/2003] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal cell death is a key feature of both normal nervous system development and neuropathological conditions. The Bcl-2 family, via its regulation of both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent cell death pathways, is uniquely positioned to critically control neuronal cell survival. Targeted gene disruptions of specific bcl-2 family members and the generation of transgenic mice overexpressing anti- or pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members have confirmed the importance of the Bcl-2 family in the nervous system. Data from studies of human brain tissue and experimental animal models of neuropathological conditions support the hypothesis that the Bcl-2 family regulates cell death in the mature nervous system and suggest that pharmacological manipulation of Bcl-2 family action could prove beneficial in the treatment of human neurological conditions such as stroke and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizwan S Akhtar
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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Carcieri SM, Jacobs AL, Nirenberg S. Classification of retinal ganglion cells: a statistical approach. J Neurophysiol 2003; 90:1704-13. [PMID: 12966177 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00127.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that retinal ganglion cells exhibit an array of responses to visual stimuli. This has led to the idea that these cells can be sorted into distinct physiological classes, such as linear versus nonlinear or on versus off. Although many classification schemes are widely accepted, few studies have provided statistical support to favor one scheme over another. Here we test whether some of the most widely used classification schemes can be statistically verified, using the mouse retina as the model system. We used a cluster analysis approach and focused on 4 standard response parameters: 1) response latency, 2) response duration, 3) relative amplitude of the on and off responses, and 4) degree of nonlinearity in the stimulus-to-response transformation. For each parameter, we plotted its distribution and tested quantitatively, using a bootstrap method, whether it divided into distinct clusters. Our analysis showed that mouse ganglion cells clustered into several groups based on response latency, duration, and relative amplitude of the on and off responses, but did not cluster into more than one group based on degree of nonlinearity-the latter formed a single, large, continuous group. Thus while some well-known schemes for classifying ganglion cells could be statistically verified, others could not. Knowledge of which schemes can be confirmed is important for building models of how retinal output is processed and how retinal circuits are built. Finally, this cluster analysis approach is general and can be used to test other classification proposals as well, both physiological and anatomical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Carcieri
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095-1763, USA
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Abstract
The mouse has become a key animal model for ocular research. This situation reflects the fact that genes implicated in human retinal disorders or in mammalian retinal function may be readily manipulated in the mouse. Visual electrophysiology provides a means to examine retinal function in mutant mice, and stimulation and recording protocols have been developed that allow the activity of many classes of retinal neurons to be examined and which take into account unique features of the mouse retina. Here, we review the mouse visual electrophysiology literature, covering techniques used to record the mouse electroretinogram and visual evoked potential, and how these have been applied to characterize the functional implications of gene mutation or manipulation in the mouse retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neal S Peachey
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Abstract
For more than a decade it has been known that certain growth factors inhibit apoptosis in genetically determined and experimental models of inner and outer retinal degeneration. The molecular mechanisms underlying these protective effects and the signaling that supports the survival of photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells in these models have recently come under more in depth investigation. This paper reviews our current understanding of the balance of pro- and antiapoptotic signals that determine cell fate in the retina and how the activation of key signal transduction pathways by specific classes of neurotrophins protects retinal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Chaum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pediatrics, and Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, USA.
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Abstract
Axotomized retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in adult cats offer a good experimental model to understand mechanisms of RGC deteriorations in ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma and optic neuritis. Alpha ganglion cells in the cat retina have higher ability to survive axotomy and regenerate their axons than beta and non-alpha or beta (NAB) ganglion cells. By contrast, beta cells suffer from rapid cell death by apoptosis between 3 and 7 days after axotomy. We introduced several methods to rescue the axotomized cat RGCs from apoptosis and regenerate their axons; transplantation of the peripheral nerve (PN), intraocular injections of neurotrophic factors, or an antiapoptotic drug. Apoptosis of beta cells can be prevented with intravitreal injections of BDNF+CNTF+forskolin or a caspase inhibitor. The injection of BDNF+CNTF+forskolin also increases the numbers of regenerated beta and NAB cells, but only slightly enhances axonal regeneration of alpha cells. Electrical stimulation to the cut end of optic nerve is effective for the survival of axotomized RGCs in cats as well as in rats. To recover function of impaired vision in cats, further studies should be directed to achieve the following goals: (1). substantial number of regenerating RGCs, (2). reconstruction of the retino-geniculo-cortical pathway, and (3). reconstruction of retinotopy in the target visual centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masami Watanabe
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Kasugai, Aichi 480-0392, Japan.
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Wang ZM, Dai CF, Kanoh N, Chi FL, Li KY. Apoptosis and expression of BCL-2 in facial motoneurons after facial nerve injury. Otol Neurotol 2002; 23:397-404. [PMID: 11981402 DOI: 10.1097/00129492-200205000-00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apoptosis has been implicated in neuronal degeneration after optic and sciatic nerve injury. The mechanisms contributing to facial motoneuron death are poorly understood. This study investigated the mechanisms underlying facial motoneuronal death and the expression of BCL-2 in facial motoneurons after facial nerve injury. METHODS Morphologic changes in the facial motoneurons were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy, and TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) methods was used. Expression of BCL-2 was studied by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization after facial nerve injury. RESULTS Cell shrinkage, condensed cytoplasm, and apoptotic bodies were demonstrated in numerous cells under light microscopy. The chromatin was condensed and localized to the nuclear envelope, forming a crescent or cap, and the endoplasmic reticulum was still visible but appeared swollen under electron microscopy. In vivo TUNEL staining displayed positive facial motoneurons 7 days after facial nerve transsection. The BCL-2 expression in facial motoneurons declined and reached its lowest level on the fifteenth day (p < 0.05). The reduction in BCL-2 expression after facial nerve transsection close to the facial motoneuron nucleus was greater than that of facial nerve transsection far away from the facial motoneuron nucleus (p < 0.05). BCL-2 expression after crushing of the facial nerve was found to be more intense in comparison with that after nerve transsection at the stylomastoid foramen (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicated that motoneuron death induced by facial nerve transsection was consistent with the process of apoptosis. The endogenous BCL-2 in these motoneurons may protect facial motoneurons from axotomy-induced cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Min Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Eye Ear Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical University, Shanghai 200 031, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
Naturally occurring cell death is believed to play a major role during the development of the nervous system in the establishment of neuronal architecture. Here we study the effects of cell death inhibition by using a transgenic mouse in which the powerful antiapoptotic gene bcl-2 is expressed in neurons. The retina of this mouse reveals that the general neuronal plan has been maintained. However, bcl-2 overexpression leads to altered frequencies of the major cell types in the retina. Thus, it is possible to estimate cell-type-specific rates of apoptosis by observing the increases in numbers of cells in the bcl-2-overexpressing transgenic mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Strettoi
- Istituto di Neurofisiologia del CNR, Area della Ricerca CNR, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
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Caleo M, Cenni MC, Costa M, Menna E, Zentilin L, Giadrossi S, Giacca M, Maffei L. Expression of BCL-2 via adeno-associated virus vectors rescues thalamic neurons after visual cortex lesion in the adult rat. Eur J Neurosci 2002; 15:1271-7. [PMID: 11994121 DOI: 10.1046/j.1460-9568.2002.01962.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Lesions of the mammalian visual cortex cause the retrograde degeneration of the thalamic neurons projecting to the damaged cortex. The proto-oncogene bcl-2 is known to inhibit neuronal apoptosis induced by a variety of noxious stimuli and preserve the functional integrity of the injured cells. Here we have tested whether the overexpression of bcl-2 via adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors is able to protect the neurons in the lateral geniculate nucleus after visual cortex ablation in adult rats. Recombinant AAV vectors encoding Bcl-2 (AAV-Bcl-2) or green fluorescent protein (AAV-GFP) as a control were stereotaxically injected into the geniculate. Three weeks after vector injection, the ipsilateral visual cortex was removed by aspiration, and cell survival was assessed 2 weeks later. We found that 20% of the geniculate neurons were transduced by the Bcl-2 vector. These cells were completely protected from death following cortical ablation. Delivery of AAV-GFP transduced an identical number of geniculate neurons but had no effect on cell survival after lesion. The total number of surviving geniculate neurons was found to be significantly higher in animals injected with AAV-Bcl-2 than in rats injected with AAV-GFP or in control lesioned rats. These data indicate that Bcl-2 gene therapy with AAV vectors represents an effective treatment to promote neuronal survival after central nervous system insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Caleo
- Scuola Normale Superiore, P.zza dei Cavalieri 7, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Cheung ZH, So KF, Lu Q, Yip HK, Wu W, Shan JJ, Pang PKT, Chen CF. Enhanced survival and regeneration of axotomized retinal ganglion cells by a mixture of herbal extracts. J Neurotrauma 2002; 19:369-78. [PMID: 11939504 DOI: 10.1089/089771502753594936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of Panax quinquefolius L. extract (PQE), Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), and Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE), in combination or alone, on the survival and regeneration of axotomized retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in an optic nerve transection model in adult hamsters. Unilateral transection of the optic nerve was performed to evaluate the effects of herbal extracts on the survival of axotomized RGCs. Effects of the herbal extracts on axonal regeneration of axotomized RGCs, on the other hand, were studied by attaching a peripheral nerve graft onto the transected ocular stump to induce regeneration. Operated animals received daily oral administration of vehicle or herbal extracts (PQE, GBE, and HPE), alone or in combination, for 7 and 21 days, respectively, in the survival and regeneration experiments. Surviving and regenerating RGCs were retrogradely labeled with Fluoro-Gold. The eyes were then enucleated and the retinas were flat-mounted for the counting of the labeled RGCs. Treatment with PQE, GBE and HPE alone failed to offer neuroprotection to injured RGCs. However, treatment with Menta-FX, a mixture of PQE, GBE, and HPE, significantly augmented RGC survival 7 days postaxotomy. Treatment with Menta-FX also induced a significant (87%) increase in the number of regenerating RGCs 21 days after optic nerve transection. This study demonstrates that herbs can act as a potential neuroprotective agent for damaged RGCs. It also suggests that the therapeutic value of herbal remedies can be maximized by the use of mixtures of appropriate herbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelda H Cheung
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, China
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Rondi-Reig L, Mariani J. To die or not to die, does it change the function? Behavior of transgenic mice reveals a role for developmental cell death. Brain Res Bull 2002; 57:85-91. [PMID: 11827740 DOI: 10.1016/s0361-9230(01)00639-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In humans, perturbations in the developmental neuronal death leading to an excess of neurons could be associated with developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. Hu-bcl-2 transgenic mice appear to be a valuable tool to study the functional role of developmental programmed cell death. Indeed, the over-expression of the anti-apoptotic gene bcl-2 decreases developmental neuronal death and Hu-bcl-2 mice present supernumerary neurons in several brain regions. A detailed behavioral analysis of these mice revealed selective deficits. Hu-bcl-2 mice have normal vision, general activity and motor skills. Only the most complex behavior like anxiety and learning abilities are impaired in these mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Rondi-Reig
- Neurobiologie des Processus Adaptatifs, Lab. Développement et Vieillissement du Sysème Nerveux (DVSN), Université P&M Curie, Paris, France.
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Porciatti V, Pizzorusso T, Maffei L. Electrophysiology of the postreceptoral visual pathway in mice. Doc Ophthalmol 2002; 104:69-82. [PMID: 11949810 DOI: 10.1023/a:1014463212001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Pattern VEPs have been recorded locally from the binocular portion of the primary visual cortex of wild type- and different transgenic mice by means of microelectrodes. Local pattern VEPs have been used on the one hand to obtain information on basic cortical layout (topography, laminar analysis) and ocularity (relative contribution of the contralateral and ipsilateral eye), and on the other hand to evaluate several aspects of visual physiology that have a counterpart in visual behavior (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, motion sensitivity, response latency). As compared to visual behavior, pattern VEPs offer the advantage that several aspects of vision can be evaluated in the same animals, including those with poor behavior due to motor- or cognitive deficits, even during the postnatal development. Pattern VEPs provide a means for characterizing the visual phenotype of mutant mice and for the evaluation of the effects induced by experimental manipulation.
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