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Nakamura N, Honjo M, Yamagishi R, Sakata R, Watanabe S, Aihara M. Neuroprotective Effect of Omidenepag on Excitotoxic Retinal Ganglion Cell Death regulating COX-2-EP2-cAMP-PKA/Epac Pathway via Neuron-Glia Interaction. Neuroscience 2024:S0306-4522(24)00311-7. [PMID: 38992567 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Glutamate excitotoxicity is involved in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in various retinal degenerative diseases, including ischemia-reperfusion injury and glaucoma. Excitotoxic RGC death is caused by both direct damage to RGCs and indirect damage through neuroinflammation of retinal glial cells. Omidenepag (OMD), a novel E prostanoid receptor 2 (EP2) agonist, is a recently approved intraocular pressure-lowering drug. The second messenger of EP2 is cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which activates protein kinase A (PKA) and exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac). In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of OMD on excitotoxic RGC death by focusing on differences in cAMP downstream signaling from the perspective of glia-neuron interactions. We established a glutamate excitotoxicity model in vitro and NMDA intravitreal injection model in vivo. In vitro, rat primary RGCs were used in an RGC survival rate assay. MG5 cells (mouse microglial cell line) and A1 cells (astrocyte cell line) were used for immunocytochemistry and Western blotting to evaluate the expressions of COX-1/2, PKA, Epac1/2, pCREB, cleaved caspase-3, inflammatory cytokines, and neurotrophic factors. Mouse retinal specimens underwent hematoxylin and eosin staining, flat-mounted retina examination, and immunohistochemistry. OMD significantly suppressed excitotoxic RGC death, cleaved caspase-3 expression, and activated glia both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, it inhibited Epac1 and inflammatory cytokine expression and promoted COX-2, pCREB, and neurotrophic factor expression. OMD may have neuroprotective effects through inhibition of the Epac pathway and promotion of the COX-2-EP2-cAMP-PKA pathway by modulating glia-neuron interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Nakamura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, NHO Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Megumi Honjo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Reiko Yamagishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rei Sakata
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sumiko Watanabe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Aihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Donders Z, Skorupska IJ, Willems E, Mussen F, Broeckhoven JV, Carlier A, Schepers M, Vanmierlo T. Beyond PDE4 inhibition: A comprehensive review on downstream cAMP signaling in the central nervous system. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117009. [PMID: 38908196 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a key second messenger that regulates signal transduction pathways pivotal for numerous biological functions. Intracellular cAMP levels are spatiotemporally regulated by their hydrolyzing enzymes called phosphodiesterases (PDEs). It has been shown that increased cAMP levels in the central nervous system (CNS) promote neuroplasticity, neurotransmission, neuronal survival, and myelination while suppressing neuroinflammation. Thus, elevating cAMP levels through PDE inhibition provides a therapeutic approach for multiple CNS disorders, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease. In particular, inhibition of the cAMP-specific PDE4 subfamily is widely studied because of its high expression in the CNS. So far, the clinical translation of full PDE4 inhibitors has been hampered because of dose-limiting side effects. Hence, focusing on signaling cascades downstream activated upon PDE4 inhibition presents a promising strategy, offering novel and pharmacologically safe targets for treating CNS disorders. Yet, the underlying downstream signaling pathways activated upon PDE(4) inhibition remain partially elusive. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge regarding downstream mediators of cAMP signaling induced by PDE4 inhibition or cAMP stimulators. Furthermore, we highlight existing gaps and future perspectives that may incentivize additional downstream research concerning PDE(4) inhibition, thereby providing novel therapeutic approaches for CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë Donders
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium
| | - Iga Joanna Skorupska
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht 6629ER, the Netherlands
| | - Emily Willems
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium
| | - Femke Mussen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium
| | - Jana Van Broeckhoven
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Centre (UMSC) Hasselt - Pelt, Belgium
| | - Aurélie Carlier
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht 6629ER, the Netherlands
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Centre (UMSC) Hasselt - Pelt, Belgium
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Centre (UMSC) Hasselt - Pelt, Belgium.
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Xia F, Shi S, Palacios E, Liu W, Buscho SE, Li J, Huang S, Vizzeri G, Dong XC, Motamedi M, Zhang W, Liu H. Sirt6 protects retinal ganglion cells and optic nerve from degeneration during aging and glaucoma. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1760-1778. [PMID: 38659223 PMCID: PMC11184404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is characterized by the progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, and its risk increases with aging. Yet comprehensive insights into the complex mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we found that anti-aging molecule Sirt6 was highly expressed in RGCs. Deleting Sirt6 globally or specifically in RGCs led to progressive RGC loss and optic nerve degeneration during aging, despite normal intraocular pressure (IOP), resembling a phenotype of normal-tension glaucoma. These detrimental effects were potentially mediated by accelerated RGC senescence through Caveolin-1 upregulation and by the induction of mitochondrial dysfunction. In mouse models of high-tension glaucoma, Sirt6 level was decreased after IOP elevation. Genetic overexpression of Sirt6 globally or specifically in RGCs significantly attenuated high tension-induced degeneration of RGCs and their axons, whereas partial or RGC-specific Sirt6 deletion accelerated RGC loss. Importantly, therapeutically targeting Sirt6 with pharmacological activator or AAV2-mediated gene delivery ameliorated high IOP-induced RGC degeneration. Together, our studies reveal a critical role of Sirt6 in preventing RGC and optic nerve degeneration during aging and glaucoma, setting the stage for further exploration of Sirt6 activation as a potential therapy for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Erick Palacios
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Seth E Buscho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Joseph Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Shixia Huang
- Advanced Technology Cores, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Education, Innovation and Technology, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gianmarco Vizzeri
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Xiaocheng Charlie Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Department of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
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Sun Y, Hao M, Wu H, Zhang C, Wei D, Li S, Song Z, Tao Y. Unveiling the role of CaMKII in retinal degeneration: from biological mechanism to therapeutic strategies. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:59. [PMID: 38725013 PMCID: PMC11084033 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01236-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is a family of broad substrate specificity serine (Ser)/threonine (Thr) protein kinases that play a crucial role in the Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways. Its significance as an intracellular Ca2+ sensor has garnered abundant research interest in the domain of neurodegeneration. Accumulating evidences suggest that CaMKII is implicated in the pathology of degenerative retinopathies such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and glaucoma optic neuropathy. CaMKII can induce the aberrant proliferation of retinal blood vessels, influence the synaptic signaling, and exert dual effects on the survival of retinal ganglion cells and pigment epithelial cells. Researchers have put forth multiple therapeutic agents, encompassing small molecules, peptides, and nucleotides that possess the capability to modulate CaMKII activity. Due to its broad range isoforms and splice variants therapeutic strategies seek to inhibit specifically the CaMKII are confronted with considerable challenges. Therefore, it becomes crucial to discern the detrimental and advantageous aspects of CaMKII, thereby facilitating the development of efficacious treatment. In this review, we summarize recent research findings on the cellular and molecular biology of CaMKII, with special emphasis on its metabolic and regulatory mechanisms. We delve into the involvement of CaMKII in the retinal signal transduction pathways and discuss the correlation between CaMKII and calcium overload. Furthermore, we elaborate the therapeutic trials targeting CaMKII, and introduce recent developments in the zone of CaMKII inhibitors. These findings would enrich our knowledge of CaMKII, and shed light on the development of a therapeutic target for degenerative retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Mengyu Hao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chengzhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Siyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zongming Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| | - Ye Tao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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5
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Huang G, Zhang S, Liao J, Qin Y, Hong Y, Chen Q, Lin Y, Li Y, Lan L, Hu W, Huang K, Tang F, Tang N, Jiang L, Shen C, Cui L, Zhong H, Li M, Lu P, Shu Q, Wei Y, Xu F. BMX deletion mitigates neuroinflammation induced by retinal ischemia/reperfusion through modulation of the AKT/ERK/STAT3 signaling cascade. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27114. [PMID: 38434304 PMCID: PMC10907772 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims Retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is implicated in the etiology of various ocular disorders. Prior research has demonstrated that bone marrow tyrosine kinase on chromosome X (BMX) contributes to the advancement of ischemic disease and inflammatory reactions. Consequently, the current investigation aims to evaluate BMX's impact on retinal I/R injury and clarify its implied mechanism of action. Main methods This study utilized male and female systemic BMX knockout (BMX-/-) mice to conduct experiments. The utilization of Western blot assay and immunofluorescence labeling techniques was employed to investigate variations in the expression of protein and tissue localization. Histomorphological changes were observed through H&E staining and SD-OCT examination. Visual function changes were assessed through electrophysiological experiments. Furthermore, apoptosis in the retina was identified using the TUNEL assay, as well as the ELISA technique, which has been utilized to determine the inflammatory factors level. Key findings Our investigation results revealed that the knockdown of BMX did not yield a significant effect on mouse retina. In mice, BMX knockdown mitigated the negative impact of I/R injury on retinal tissue structure and visual function. BMX knockdown effectively reduced apoptosis, suppressed inflammatory responses, and decreased inflammatory factors subsequent to I/R injury. The outcomes of the current investigation revealed that BMX knockdown partially protected the retina through downregulating phosphorylation of AKT/ERK/STAT3 pathway. Significance Our investigation showed that BMX-/- reduces AKT, ERK, and STAT3 phosphorylation, reducing apoptosis and inflammation. Thus, this strategy protected the retina from structural and functional damage after I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyi Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Shaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Jing Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuanjun Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yiyi Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yunru Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Lin Lan
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Wen Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Kongqian Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Fen Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Ningning Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Chaolan Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Ling Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Haibin Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Peng Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Qinmeng Shu
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Health Commission, Shanghai, China
| | - Yantao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, 7 Jinsui Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology &Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
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Shahror RA, Morris CA, Mohammed AA, Wild M, Zaman B, Mitchell CD, Phillips PH, Rusch NJ, Shosha E, Fouda AY. Role of myeloid cells in ischemic retinopathies: recent advances and unanswered questions. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:65. [PMID: 38454477 PMCID: PMC10918977 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03058-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Myeloid cells including microglia and macrophages play crucial roles in retinal homeostasis by clearing cellular debris and regulating inflammation. These cells are activated in several blinding ischemic retinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy, where they may exert both beneficial and detrimental effects on neurovascular function and angiogenesis. Myeloid cells impact the progression of retinal pathologies and recent studies suggest that targeting myeloid cells is a promising therapeutic strategy to mitigate diabetic retinopathy and other ischemic retinal diseases. This review summarizes the recent advances in our understanding of the role of microglia and macrophages in retinal diseases and focuses on the effects of myeloid cells on neurovascular injury and angiogenesis in ischemic retinopathies. We highlight gaps in knowledge and advocate for a more detailed understanding of the role of myeloid cells in retinal ischemic injury to fully unlock the potential of targeting myeloid cells as a therapeutic strategy for retinal ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami A Shahror
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Carol A Morris
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Aya A Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Melissa Wild
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Bushra Zaman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Christian D Mitchell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Paul H Phillips
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey & Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Nancy J Rusch
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Esraa Shosha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman Y Fouda
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 West Markham Street, Slot 611, BIOMED-1, B306, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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7
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Xie L, Wu H, He Q, Shi W, Zhang J, Xiao X, Yu T. A slow-releasing donor of hydrogen sulfide inhibits neuronal cell death via anti-PANoptosis in rats with spinal cord ischemia‒reperfusion injury. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:33. [PMID: 38217003 PMCID: PMC10785475 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01457-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord ischemia‒reperfusion injury (SCIRI) can lead to paraplegia, which leads to permanent motor function loss. It is a disastrous complication of surgery and causes tremendous socioeconomic burden. However, effective treatments for SCIRI are still lacking. PANoptosis consists of three kinds of programmed cell death, pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, and may contribute to ischemia‒reperfusion-induced neuron death. Previous studies have demonstrated that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) exerts a neuroprotective effect in many neurodegenerative diseases. However, whether H2S is anti-PANoptosis and neuroprotective in the progression of acute SCIRI remains unclear. Thus, in this study we aimed to explore the role of H2S in SCIRI and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS Measurements of lower limb function, neuronal activity, microglia/macrophage function histopathological examinations, and biochemical levels were performed to examine the efficacy of H2S and to further demonstrate the mechanism and treatment of SCIRI. RESULTS The results showed that GYY4137 (a slow-releasing H2S donor) treatment attenuated the loss of Nissl bodies after SCIRI and improved the BBB score. Additionally, the number of TUNEL-positive and cleaved caspase-3-positive cells was decreased, and the upregulation of expression of cleaved caspase-8, cleaved caspase-3, Bax, and Bad and downregulation of Bcl-2 expression were reversed after GYY4137 administration. Meanwhile, both the expression and activation of p-MLKL, p-RIP1, and p-RIP3, along with the number of PI-positive and RIP3-positive neurons, were decreased in GYY4137-treated rats. Furthermore, GYY4137 administration reduced the expression of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1 and cleaved GSDMD, decreased the colocalization NeuN/NLRP3 and Iba1/interleukin-1β-expressing cells, and inhibited proinflammatory factors and microglia/macrophage polarization. CONCLUSIONS H2S ameliorated spinal cord neuron loss, prevented motor dysfunction after SCIRI, and exerted a neuroprotective effect via the inhibition of PANoptosis and overactivated microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in SCIRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hang Wu
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qiuping He
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Weipeng Shi
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Central Laboratories, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China.
| | - Tengbo Yu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China.
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Hu C, Feng Y, Huang G, Cui K, Fan M, Xiang W, Shi Y, Ye D, Ye H, Bai X, Xu F, Xu Y, Huang J. Melatonin prevents EAAC1 deletion-induced retinal ganglion cell degeneration by inhibiting apoptosis and senescence. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12916. [PMID: 37786968 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Normal tension glaucoma (NTG) is referred to as a progressive degenerative disorder of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), resulting in nonreversible visual defects, despite intraocular pressure levels within the statistically normal range. Current therapeutic strategies for NTG yield limited benefits. Excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1) knockout (EAAC1-/- ) in mice has been shown to induce RGC degeneration without elevating intraocular pressure, mimicking pathological characteristics of NTG. In this study, we explored whether daily oral administration of melatonin could block RGCs loss and prevent retinal morphology and function defects associated with EAAC1 deletion. We also explored the molecular mechanisms underlying EAAC1 deletion-induced RGC degeneration and the neuroprotective effects of melatonin. Our RNA sequencing and in vivo data indicated EAAC1 deletion caused elevated oxidative stress, activation of apoptosis and cellular senescence pathways, and neuroinflammation in RGCs. However, melatonin administration efficiently prevented these detrimental effects. Furthermore, we investigated the potential role of apoptosis- and senescence-related redox-sensitive factors in EAAC1 deletion-induced RGCs degeneration and the neuroprotective effects of melatonin administration. We observed remarkable upregulation of p53, whereas NRF2 and Sirt1 expression were significantly decreased in EAAC1-/- mice, which were prevented by melatonin treatment, suggesting that melatonin exerted its neuroprotective effects possibly through modulating NRF2/p53/Sirt1 redox-sensitive signaling pathways. Overall, our study provided a solid foundation for the application of melatonin in the management of NTG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanlin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangyi Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology, Department of Ophthalmology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Kaixuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Matthew Fan
- Yale College, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Wu Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiwen Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Eye Health & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology, Department of Ophthalmology, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Ju WK, Ha Y, Choi S, Kim KY, Bastola T, Kim J, Weinreb RN, Zhang W, Miller YI, Choi SH. Restoring AIBP expression in the retina provides neuroprotection in glaucoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.16.562633. [PMID: 37905114 PMCID: PMC10614877 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.16.562633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease manifested in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and irreversible blindness. While lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only proven therapeutic strategy in glaucoma, it is insufficient for preventing disease progression, thus justifying the recent focus on targeting retinal neuroinflammation and preserving RGCs. We have identified apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP) as the protein regulating several mechanisms of retinal neurodegeneration. AIBP controls excessive cholesterol accumulation via upregulating the cholesterol transporter ATP-binding cassette transporter 1 (ABCA1) and reduces inflammatory signaling via toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and mitochondrial dysfunction. ABCA1, TLR4 and oxidative phosphorylation components are genetically linked to primary open-angle glaucoma. Here we demonstrated that AIBP and ABCA1 expression was decreased, while TLR4, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta), and the cholesterol content increased in the retina of patients with glaucoma and in mouse models of glaucoma. Restoring AIBP expression by a single intravitreal injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-AIBP protected RGCs in glaucomatous DBA/2J mice, in mice with microbead-induced chronic IOP elevation, and optic nerve crush. In addition, AIBP expression attenuated TLR4 and IL-1 beta expression, localization of TLR4 to lipid rafts, reduced cholesterol accumulation, and ameliorated visual dysfunction. These studies collectively indicate that restoring AIBP expression in the glaucomatous retina reduces neuroinflammation and protects RGCs and Muller glia, suggesting the therapeutic potential of AAV-AIBP in human glaucoma.
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Basavarajappa D, Galindo-Romero C, Gupta V, Agudo-Barriuso M, Gupta VB, Graham SL, Chitranshi N. Signalling pathways and cell death mechanisms in glaucoma: Insights into the molecular pathophysiology. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101216. [PMID: 37856930 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex multifactorial eye disease manifesting in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and optic nerve degeneration, ultimately causing irreversible vision loss. Research in recent years has significantly enhanced our understanding of RGC degenerative mechanisms in glaucoma. It is evident that high intraocular pressure (IOP) is not the only contributing factor to glaucoma pathogenesis. The equilibrium of pro-survival and pro-death signalling pathways in the retina strongly influences the function and survival of RGCs and optic nerve axons in glaucoma. Molecular evidence from human retinal tissue analysis and a range of experimental models of glaucoma have significantly contributed to unravelling these mechanisms. Accumulating evidence reveals a wide range of molecular signalling pathways that can operate -either alone or via intricate networks - to induce neurodegeneration. The roles of several molecules, including neurotrophins, interplay of intracellular kinases and phosphates, caveolae and adapter proteins, serine proteases and their inhibitors, nuclear receptors, amyloid beta and tau, and how their dysfunction affects retinal neurons are discussed in this review. We further underscore how anatomical alterations in various animal models exhibiting RGC degeneration and susceptibility to glaucoma-related neuronal damage have helped to characterise molecular mechanisms in glaucoma. In addition, we also present different regulated cell death pathways that play a critical role in RGC degeneration in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Caridad Galindo-Romero
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) & Ophthalmology Department, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marta Agudo-Barriuso
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) & Ophthalmology Department, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Veer B Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
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11
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Buscho SE, Xia F, Shi S, Lin JL, Szczesny B, Zhang W, Motamedi M, Liu H. Non-Invasive Evaluation of Retinal Vascular Alterations in a Mouse Model of Optic Neuritis Using Laser Speckle Flowgraphy and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography. Cells 2023; 12:2685. [PMID: 38067113 PMCID: PMC10705764 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232685] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic neuritis, a characteristic feature of multiple sclerosis (MS), involves the inflammation of the optic nerve and the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Although previous studies suggest that retinal blood flow alterations occur during optic neuritis, the precise location, the degree of impairment, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we utilized two emerging non-invasive imaging techniques, laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), to investigate retinal vascular changes in a mouse model of MS, known as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). We associated these changes with leukostasis, RGC injury, and the overall progression of EAE. LSFG imaging revealed a progressive reduction in retinal blood flow velocity and increased vascular resistance near the optic nerve head in the EAE model, indicating impaired ocular blood flow. OCTA imaging demonstrated significant decreases in vessel density, number of junctions, and total vessel length in the intermediate and deep capillary plexus of the EAE mice. Furthermore, our analysis of leukostasis revealed a significant increase in adherent leukocytes in the retinal vasculature of the EAE mice, suggesting the occurrence of vascular inflammation in the early development of EAE pathology. The abovechanges preceded or were accompanied by the characteristic hallmarks of optic neuritis, such as RGC loss and reduced visual acuity. Overall, our study sheds light on the intricate relationship between retinal vascular alterations and the progression of optic neuritis as well as MS clinical score. It also highlights the potential for the development of image-based biomarkers for the diagnosis and monitoring of optic neuritis as well as MS, particularly in response to emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth E. Buscho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
| | - Jonathan L. Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Bartosz Szczesny
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (S.E.B.); (F.X.); (S.S.); (J.L.L.); (B.S.); (W.Z.); (M.M.)
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12
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Feng Y, Hu C, Cui K, Fan M, Xiang W, Ye D, Shi Y, Ye H, Bai X, Wei Y, Xu Y, Huang J. GSK840 Alleviates Retinal Neuronal Injury by Inhibiting RIPK3/MLKL-Mediated RGC Necroptosis After Ischemia/Reperfusion. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:42. [PMID: 38015174 PMCID: PMC10691386 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.14.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to explore the impact of GSK840 on retinal neuronal injury after retinal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) and its associated mechanism. Methods We established an in vivo mouse model of IR and an in vitro model of oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGDR) in primary mouse retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). GSK840, a small-molecule compound, was used to specifically inhibit RIPK3/MLKL-dependent necroptosis. Retinal structure and function evaluation was performed by using hematoxylin and eosin staining, optical coherence tomography, and electroretinography. Propidium Iodide (PI) staining was used for detection of necroptotic cell death, whereas Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence were used to assess necroptosis-related proteins and inner retinal neurons. Results RIPK3/MLKL-dependent necroptosis was rapidly activated in RGCs following retinal IR or OGDR. GSK840 helped maintain relatively normal inner retinal structure and thickness by preserving inner retinal neurons, particularly RGCs. Meanwhile, GSK840 ameliorated IR-induced visual dysfunction, as evidenced by the improved amplitudes of photopic negative response, a-wave, b-wave, and oscillatory potentials. And GSK840 treatment significantly reduced the population of PI+ RGCs after injury. Mechanistically, GSK840 ameliorated RGC necroptosis by inhibiting the RIPK3/MLKL pathway. Conclusions GSK840 exerts protective effects against retinal neuronal injury after IR by inhibiting RIPK3/MLKL-mediated RGC necroptosis. GSK840 may represent a protective strategy for RGC degeneration in ischemic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Matthew Fan
- Yale College, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Wu Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiwen Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yantao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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13
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Wang T, Li S, Li XM, Li C, Wang F, Jiang Q. Targeting circular RNA-Glra2 alleviates retinal neurodegeneration induced by ocular hypertension. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:10705-10731. [PMID: 37819813 PMCID: PMC10599745 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss characterized by retinal neurodegeneration. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as the potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases. However, the expression profiling of circRNAs in glaucomatous neurodegeneration has not been fully understood. In this study, we built a glaucomatous neurodegeneration model via the injection of microbeads into anterior chamber. circRNA expression profile and bioinformatics analysis revealed that compared with normal retinas, 171 circRNAs were dysregulated in the glaucomatous retinas, including 101 up-regulated circRNAs and 70 down-regulated circRNAs. Detecting the level of circular RNA-glycine receptor α2 subunit gene (cGlra2) in aqueous humor made it possible to distinguish glaucoma patients from cataract patients. Silencing of cGlra2 protected against oxidative stress- or hydrostatic pressure-induced retinal ganglion cell (RGC) injury in vitro. Moreover, silencing of cGlra2 retarded ocular hypertension-induced retinal neurodegeneration in vivo as shown by increased TUJ1 staining, reduced reactive gliosis, decreased retinal cell apoptosis, enhanced visual acuity, and improved retinal function. cGlra2 acted as a miRNA sponge to regulate RGC function through cGlra2/miR-144/BCL2L11 signaling axis. Collectively, this study provides novel insights into the underlying mechanism of retinal neurodegeneration and highlights the potential of cGlra2 as a target for the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu 223300, China
| | - Shuyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu 223300, China
| | - Xiu-Miao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, China
| | - Chaopeng Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu 223300, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Medical College of Shanghai 10th People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, The Affiliated Eye Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210000, China
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14
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Zhang C, Yu N, Qin Q, Wu X, Gu Y, Liu T, Zhang Q, Liu X, Chen M, Wang K. Keratin8 Deficiency Aggravates Retinal Ganglion Cell Damage Under Acute Ocular Hypertension. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:1. [PMID: 37656477 PMCID: PMC10479409 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.12.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Keratin 8/18 (KRT8/18), paired members of the intermediate filament family, have shown vital functions in regulating physiological activities more than supporting the mechanic strength for cells and organelles. However, the KRT8/18 presence in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and functions on neuroprotection in a mouse model of acute ocular hypertension (AOH) are unknown and worthy of exploration. Methods We identified the existence of KRT8/18 in normal human and mouse retinas and primary RGCs. KRT8/18 levels were detected after AOH modeling. The adeno-associated virus (AAV) system was intravitreally used for selective KRT8 knockdown in RGCs. The histological changes, the loss and dysfunction of RGCs, and the gliosis in retinas were detected. The markers of cell apoptosis and MAPK pathways were investigated. Results KRT8/18 existed in all retinal layers and was highly expressed in RGCs, and they increased after AOH induction. The KRT8 knockdown in RGCs caused no histopathological changes and RGC loss in retinas without AOH modeling. However, after the KRT8 deficiency, AOH significantly promoted the loss of whole retina and inner retina thickness, the reduction, apoptosis, and dysfunction of RGCs, and the glial activation. Besides, downregulated Bcl-2 and upregulated cleaved-Caspase 3 were found in the AOH retinas with KRT8 knockdown, which may be caused by the increased phosphorylation level of MAPK pathways (JNK, p38, and ERK). Conclusions The KRT8 deficiency promoted RGC apoptosis and neurodegeneration by abnormal activation of MAPK pathways in AOH retinas. Targeting KRT8 may serve as a novel treatment for saving RCGs from glaucomatous injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengshou Zhang
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Naiji Yu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiyu Qin
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xingdi Wu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuxiang Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Min Chen
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kaijun Wang
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Yang W, Xia F, Mei F, Shi S, Robichaux WG, Lin W, Zhang W, Liu H, Cheng X. Upregulation of Epac1 Promotes Pericyte Loss by Inducing Mitochondrial Fission, Reactive Oxygen Species Production, and Apoptosis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:34. [PMID: 37651112 PMCID: PMC10476449 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.11.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The pathogenic mechanisms behind the development of ischemic retinopathy are complex and poorly understood. This study investigates the involvement of exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac)1 signaling in pericyte injury during ischemic retinopathy, including diabetic retinopathy, a disease that threatens vision. Methods Mouse models of retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury and type 1 diabetes induced by streptozotocin were used to investigate the pathogenesis of these diseases. The roles of Epac1 signaling in the pathogenesis of ischemic retinopathy were determined by an Epac1 knockout mouse model. The cellular and molecular mechanisms of Epac1-mediated pericyte dysfunction in response to high glucose were investigated by specific modulation of Epac1 activity in primary human retinal pericytes using Epac1-specific RNA interference and a pharmacological inhibitor. Results Ischemic injury or diabetes-induced retinal capillary degeneration were associated with an increased expression of Epac1 in the mouse retinal vasculature, including both endothelial cells and pericytes. Genetic deletion of Epac1 protected ischemic injury-induced pericyte loss and capillary degeneration in the mouse retina. Furthermore, high glucose-induced Epac1 expression in retinal pericytes was accompanied by increased Drp1 phosphorylation, mitochondrial fission, reactive oxygen species production, and caspase 3 activation. Inhibition of Epac1 via RNA interference or pharmacological approaches blocked high glucose-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and caspase 3 activation. Conclusions Our study reveals an important role of Epac1 signaling in mitochondrial dynamics, reactive oxygen species production, and apoptosis in retinal pericytes and identifies Epac1 as a therapeutic target for treating ischemic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Yang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Fang Mei
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - William G. Robichaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, United States
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Shi S, Ding C, Zhu S, Xia F, Buscho SE, Li S, Motamedi M, Liu H, Zhang W. PERK Inhibition Suppresses Neovascularization and Protects Neurons During Ischemia-Induced Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:17. [PMID: 37566408 PMCID: PMC10424802 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.11.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal ischemia is a common cause of a variety of eye diseases, such as retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and vein occlusion. Protein kinase RNA-activated-like endoplasmic reticulum (ER) kinase (PERK), one of the main ER stress sensor proteins, has been involved in many diseases. In this study, we investigated the role of PERK in ischemia-induced retinopathy using a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Methods OIR was induced by subjecting neonatal pups to 70% oxygen at postnatal day 7 (P7) followed by returning to room air at P12. GSK2606414, a selective PERK inhibitor, was orally administrated to pups right after they were returned to room air once daily until 1 day before sample collection. Western blot, immunostaining, and quantitative PCR were used to assess PERK phosphorylation, retinal changes, and signaling pathways in relation to PERK inhibition. Results PERK phosphorylation was prominently increased in OIR retinas, which was inhibited by GSK2606414. Concomitantly, PERK inhibition significantly reduced retinal neovascularization (NV) and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss, restored astrocyte network, and promoted revascularization. Furthermore, PERK inhibition downregulated the recruitment/proliferation of mononuclear phagocytes but did not affect OIR-upregulated canonical angiogenic pathways. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that PERK is involved in ischemia-induced retinopathy and its inhibition using GSK2606414 could offer an effective therapeutic intervention aimed at alleviating retinal NV while preventing neuron loss during retinal ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Chun Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Shuang Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Seth E. Buscho
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Shengguo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
- Departments of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States
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17
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Slika H, Mansour H, Nasser SA, Shaito A, Kobeissy F, Orekhov AN, Pintus G, Eid AH. Epac as a tractable therapeutic target. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 945:175645. [PMID: 36894048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
In 1957, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was identified as the first secondary messenger, and the first signaling cascade discovered was the cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA) pathway. Since then, cAMP has received increasing attention given its multitude of actions. Not long ago, a new cAMP effector named exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) emerged as a critical mediator of cAMP's actions. Epac mediates a plethora of pathophysiologic processes and contributes to the pathogenesis of several diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung fibrosis, neurological disorders, and others. These findings strongly underscore the potential of Epac as a tractable therapeutic target. In this context, Epac modulators seem to possess unique characteristics and advantages and hold the promise of providing more efficacious treatments for a wide array of diseases. This paper provides an in-depth dissection and analysis of Epac structure, distribution, subcellular compartmentalization, and signaling mechanisms. We elaborate on how these characteristics can be utilized to design specific, efficient, and safe Epac agonists and antagonists that can be incorporated into future pharmacotherapeutics. In addition, we provide a detailed portfolio for specific Epac modulators highlighting their discovery, advantages, potential concerns, and utilization in the context of clinical disease entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Slika
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon.
| | - Hadi Mansour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon.
| | | | - Abdullah Shaito
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, P.O. Box: 2713, Qatar.
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Department of Neurobiology and Neuroscience, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Alexander N Orekhov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, Moscow, 117418, Russia; Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiiskaya Street, Moscow, 125315, Russia; Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Skolkovo Innovative Center, Osennyaya Street 4-1-207, Moscow, 121609, Russia.
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, P.O. Box 2713, Qatar.
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18
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Erofeeva N, Meshalkina D, Firsov M. Multiple Roles of cAMP in Vertebrate Retina. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081157. [PMID: 37190066 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
cAMP is a key regulatory molecule that controls many important processes in the retina, including phototransduction, cell development and death, growth of neural processes, intercellular contacts, retinomotor effects, and so forth. The total content of cAMP changes in the retina in a circadian manner following the natural light cycle, but it also shows local and even divergent changes in faster time scales in response to local and transient changes in the light environment. Changes in cAMP might also manifest or cause various pathological processes in virtually all cellular components of the retina. Here we review the current state of knowledge and understanding of the regulatory mechanisms by which cAMP influences the physiological processes that occur in various retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Erofeeva
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Darya Meshalkina
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Michael Firsov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223 St. Petersburg, Russia
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Abstract
Purpose: Retinal ganglion cell death occurs during the glaucoma pathological process, and it is significant because of the poor regeneration capacity of retinal ganglion cells. With a constantly increasing understanding of retinal cell death mechanisms, we now know that simply blocking a specific mechanism of cell death might not prevent retinal ganglion cell death. This review aimed to summarize the mechanisms of retinal cell death in glaucoma models and discuss the caveats in restoring visual function in these studies.Methods: A literature search was done on PubMed using key words including glaucoma, ocular hypertension, retinal ganglion cell, cell death, apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, autophagic cell death, and parthanatos. The literature was reviewed to summarize the information about the lethal pathways of retinal ganglion cell in the glaucoma-like animal models.Results: Based on the purpose, 100 studies were selected and discussed in this review.Conclusions: The damage to ganglion cells in glaucoma-like animals can occur via multiple lethal pathways and the molecular mechanisms are still incompletely understood. Further investigations on the crosstalk between different cell death pathways and the common upstream regulators could augment the development of novel targeting agents for the curative treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinghuai Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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20
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Rong R, Zhou X, Liang G, Li H, You M, Liang Z, Zeng Z, Xiao H, Ji D, Xia X. Targeting Cell Membranes, Depleting ROS by Dithiane and Thioketal-Containing Polymers with Pendant Cholesterols Delivering Necrostatin-1 for Glaucoma Treatment. ACS NANO 2022; 16:21225-21239. [PMID: 36487191 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c09202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, characterized by progressive vision loss due to the selective damage to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Oxidative stress is generally believed as one key factor of RGCs death. Recently, necroptosis was identified to play a key role in glaucomatous injury. Therefore, depletion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibition of necroptosis in RGCs has become one of treatment strategies for glaucoma. However, existing drugs without efficient drug enter into the retina and have controlled release due to a short drug retention. Herein, we designed a glaucomatous microenvironment-responsive drug carrier polymer, which is characterized by the presence of thioketal bonds and 1,4-dithiane unit in the main chain for depleting ROS as well as the pendant cholesterols for targeting cell membranes. This polymer was adopted to encapsulate an inhibitor of necroptosis, necrostatin-1, into nanoparticles (designated as NP1). NP1 with superior biosafety could scavenge ROS in RGCs both in vitro and in vivo of an acute pathological glaucomatous injury model. Further, NP1 was found to effectively inhibit the upregulation of the necroptosis pathway, reducing the death of RGCs. The findings in this study exemplified the use of nanomaterials as potential strategies to treat glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Rong
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Xuezhi Zhou
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Ganghao Liang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Haibo Li
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Mengling You
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Zhuotao Liang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Zhou Zeng
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Dan Ji
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases (Xiangya Hospital), Central South University, Changsha, Hunan410008, P. R. China
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21
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Li S, Shi S, Xia F, Luo B, Ha Y, Luisi J, Gupta PK, Merkley KH, Motamedi M, Liu H, Zhang W. CXCR3 deletion aggravates corneal neovascularization in a corneal alkali-burn model. Exp Eye Res 2022; 225:109265. [PMID: 36206861 PMCID: PMC10191246 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Corneal neovascularization can cause devastating consequences including vision impairment and even blindness. Corneal inflammation is a crucial factor for the induction of corneal neovascularization. Current anti-inflammatory approaches are of limited value with poor therapeutic effects. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new therapies that specifically modulate inflammatory pathways and inhibit neovascularization in the cornea. The interaction of chemokines and their receptors plays a key role in regulating leukocyte migration during inflammatory response. CXCR3 is essential for mediating the recruitment of activated T cells and microglia/macrophages, but the role of CXCR3 in the initiation and promotion of corneal neovascularization remains unclear. Here, we showed that the expression of CXCL10 and CXCR3 was significantly increased in the cornea after alkali burn. Compared with WT mice, CXCR3-/- mice exhibited significantly increased corneal hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis after alkali burn. In addition, exaggerated leukocyte infiltration and leukostasis, and elevated expression of inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factor were also found in the corneas of CXCR3-/- mice subjected to alkali burn. With bone marrow (BM) transplantation, we further demonstrated that the deletion of CXCR3 in BM-derived leukocytes plays a key role in the acceleration of alkali burn-induced corneal neovascularization. Taken together, our results suggest that upregulation of CXCR3 does not exhibit its conventional action as a proinflammatory cytokine but instead serves as a self-protective mechanism for the modulation of inflammation and maintenance of corneal avascularity after corneal alkali burn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengguo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ban Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Yonju Ha
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan Luisi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Praveena K Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kevin H Merkley
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Departments of Neuroscience, Cell Biology & Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
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22
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Ye D, Xu Y, Shi Y, Fan M, Lu P, Bai X, Feng Y, Hu C, Cui K, Tang X, Liao J, Huang W, Xu F, Liang X, Huang J. Anti-PANoptosis is involved in neuroprotective effects of melatonin in acute ocular hypertension model. J Pineal Res 2022; 73:e12828. [PMID: 36031799 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Acute ocular hypertension (AOH) is the most important characteristic of acute glaucoma, which can lead to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and permanent vision loss. So far, approved effective therapy is still lacking in acute glaucoma. PANoptosis (pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis), which consists of three key modes of programmed cell death-apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis-may contribute to AOH-induced RGC death. Previous studies have demonstrated that melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) exerts a neuroprotective effect in many retinal degenerative diseases. However, whether melatonin is anti-PANoptotic and neuroprotective in the progression of acute glaucoma remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to explore the role of melatonin in AOH retinas and its underlying mechanisms. The results showed that melatonin treatment attenuated the loss of ganglion cell complex thickness, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and RGC after AOH injury, and improved the amplitudes of a-wave, b-wave, and oscillatory potentials in the electroretinogram. Additionally, the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling-positive cells was decreased, and the upregulation of cleaved caspase-8, cleaved caspase-3, Bax, and Bad and downregulation of Bcl-2 and p-Bad were inhibited after melatonin administration. Meanwhile, both the expression and activation of MLKL, RIP1, and RIP3, along with the number of PI-positive cells, were reduced in melatonin-treated mice, and p-RIP3 was in both RGC and microglia/macrophage after AOH injury. Furthermore, melatonin reduced the expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase-1, gasdermin D (GSDMD), and cleaved GSDMD, and decreased the number of Iba1/interleukin-1β-positive cells. In conclusion, melatonin ameliorated retinal structure, prevented retinal dysfunction after AOH, and exerted a neuroprotective effect via inhibition of PANoptosis in AOH retinas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxun Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Matthew Fan
- Yale College, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Peng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanlin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Liao
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology, Nanning, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology, Nanning, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Institute of Ophthalmic Diseases, Guangxi Academy of Medical Sciences & Department of Ophthalmology, the People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region & Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Related Systemic Diseases Artificial Intelligence Screening Technology, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoling Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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23
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Rasmussen M, Zhou J, Schwede F, Ekström P. Enhanced cGMP Interactor Rap Guanine Exchange Factor 4 (EPAC2) Expression and Activity in Degenerating Photoreceptors: A Neuroprotective Response? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094619. [PMID: 35563009 PMCID: PMC9103912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The disease retinitis pigmentosa (RP) leads to photoreceptor degeneration by a yet undefined mechanism(s). In several RP mouse models (i.e., rd mice), a high cyclic GMP (cGMP) level within photoreceptors is detected, suggesting that cGMP plays a role in degeneration. The rap guanine exchange factor 4 (EPAC2) is activated by cyclic AMP (cAMP) and is an accepted cGMP-interacting protein. It is unclear whether and how cGMP interacts with EPAC2 in degenerating photoreceptors; we therefore investigated EPAC2 expression and interactions with cGMP and cAMP in retinas of the rd1 and rd10 models for retinal degeneration. EPAC2 expression in the photoreceptor layer increased significantly during rd1 and rd10 degeneration, and an increase in EPAC2 interactions with cGMP but not cAMP in the rd1 was also seen via a proximity ligation assay on histological sections. Retinal explant cultures revealed that pharmacological inhibition of the EPAC2 activity reduced the photoreceptor layer thickness in the rd10 retina, suggesting that EPAC2 inhibition promotes degeneration. Taken together, our results support the hypothesis that high degeneration-related cGMP leads to increased EPAC2 and cGMP interactions, inhibiting EPAC2. By inference, EPAC2 could have neuroprotective capacities that may be exploited in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Rasmussen
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; (J.Z.); (P.E.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jiaming Zhou
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; (J.Z.); (P.E.)
| | - Frank Schwede
- BIOLOG Life Science Institute GmbH & Co. KG, 28199 Bremen, Germany;
| | - Per Ekström
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden; (J.Z.); (P.E.)
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Suppression of trabecular meshwork phagocytosis by norepinephrine is associated with nocturnal increase in intraocular pressure in mice. Commun Biol 2022; 5:339. [PMID: 35396348 PMCID: PMC8993819 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03295-y] [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: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intraocular pressure (IOP) is an important factor in glaucoma development, which involves aqueous humor (AH) dynamics, with inflow from the ciliary body and outflow through the trabecular meshwork (TM). IOP has a circadian rhythm entrained by sympathetic noradrenaline (NE) or adrenal glucocorticoids (GCs). Herein, we investigated the involvement of GC/NE in AH outflow. Pharmacological prevention of inflow/outflow in mice indicated a diurnal outflow increase, which was related to TM phagocytosis. NE showed a non-self-sustained inhibition in phagocytosis of immortalized human TM cells, but not GC. The pharmacological and reverse genetic approaches identified β1-adrenergic receptor (AR)-mediated exchange proteins directly activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (EPAC)-SHIP1 signal activation by ablation of phosphatidylinositol triphosphate, regulating phagocytic cup formation. Furthermore, we revealed the phagocytosis involvement in the β1-AR-EPAC-SHIP1-mediated nocturnal IOP rise in mice. These suggest that TM phagocytosis suppression by NE can regulate IOP rhythm through AH outflow. This discovery may aid glaucoma management. Intraocular pressure, which can cause glaucoma, is found to be affected by nocturnal sympathetic noradrenaline, which inhibits phagocytosis in trabecular meshwork cells through β1-aderenergic receptor mediated cAMP-EPAC-SHIP1 activation.
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Lu P, Shi Y, Ye D, Lu X, Tang X, Cheng L, Xu Y, Huang J. Intravitreal Injection of PACAP Attenuates Acute Ocular Hypertension-Induced Retinal Injury Via Anti-Apoptosis and Anti-Inflammation in Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:18. [PMID: 35293951 PMCID: PMC8944396 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.3.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) has shown potent neuroprotective effects in central nervous system and retina disorders. However, whether PACAP can attenuate retinal neurodegeneration induced by acute ocular hypertension (AOH) and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of PACAP on the survival and function of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), apoptosis, and inflammation in a mouse model of AOH injury. Methods PACAP was injected into the vitreous body immediately after inducing AOH injury. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and optical coherence tomography were used to evaluate the loss of retina tissue. Pattern electroretinogram was used to evaluate the function of RGCs. TUNEL assay was used to detect apoptosis. Immunofluorescence and western blot were employed to evaluate protein expression levels. Results PACAP treatment significantly reduced the losses of whole retina and inner retina thicknesses, Tuj1-positive RGCs, and the amplitudes of pattern electroretinograms induced by AOH injury. Additionally, PACAP treatment remarkably reduced the number of TUNEL-positive cells and inhibited the upregulation of Bim, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 and downregulation of Bcl-xL after AOH injury. Moreover, PACAP markedly inhibited retinal reactive gliosis and vascular inflammation, as demonstrated by the downregulation of GFAP, Iba1, CD68, and CD45 in PACAP-treated mice. Furthermore, upregulated expression of NF-κB and phosphorylated NF-κB induced by AOH injury was attenuated by PACAP treatment. Conclusions PACAP could prevent the loss of retinal tissue and improve the survival and function of RGCs. The neuroprotective effect of PACAP is probably associated with its potent anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxun Shi
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Ye
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Lu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Tang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Xu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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26
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Musheshe N, Oun A, Sabogal-Guáqueta AM, Trombetta-Lima M, Mitchel SC, Adzemovic A, Speek O, Morra F, van der Veen CHJT, Lezoualc’h F, Cheng X, Schmidt M, Dolga AM. Pharmacological Inhibition of Epac1 Averts Ferroptosis Cell Death by Preserving Mitochondrial Integrity. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020314. [PMID: 35204198 PMCID: PMC8868285 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (Epac) proteins are implicated in a wide range of cellular functions including oxidative stress and cell survival. Mitochondrial-dependent oxidative stress has been associated with progressive neuronal death underlying the pathology of many neurodegenerative diseases. The role of Epac modulation in neuronal cells in relation to cell survival and death, as well as its potential effect on mitochondrial function, is not well established. In immortalized hippocampal (HT-22) neuronal cells, we examined mitochondria function in the presence of various Epac pharmacological modulators in response to oxidative stress due to ferroptosis. Our study revealed that selective pharmacological modulation of Epac1 or Epac2 isoforms, exerted differential effects in erastin-induced ferroptosis conditions in HT-22 cells. Epac1 inhibition prevented cell death and loss of mitochondrial integrity induced by ferroptosis, while Epac2 inhibition had limited effects. Our data suggest Epac1 as a plausible therapeutic target for preventing ferroptosis cell death associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nshunge Musheshe
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: (N.M.); (A.M.D.)
| | - Asmaa Oun
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Angélica María Sabogal-Guáqueta
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Marina Trombetta-Lima
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Sarah C. Mitchel
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Ahmed Adzemovic
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Oliver Speek
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesca Morra
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Christina H. J. T. van der Veen
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
| | - Frank Lezoualc’h
- Inserm UMR-1297, Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Université Toulouse Paul Sabatier, 31400 Toulouse, France;
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology & Pharmacology, Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 7000, USA;
| | - Martina Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
- Groningen Research Institute of Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), University of Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Amalia M. Dolga
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (A.O.); (A.M.S.-G.); (M.T.-L.); (S.C.M.); (A.A.); (O.S.); (F.M.); (C.H.J.T.v.d.V.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: (N.M.); (A.M.D.)
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27
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Li S, Shi S, Luo B, Xia F, Ha Y, Merkley KH, Motamedi M, Zhang W, Liu H. Tauopathy induces degeneration and impairs regeneration of sensory nerves in the cornea. Exp Eye Res 2021; 215:108900. [PMID: 34929160 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is transparent and innervated by a dense collection of sensory nerves originating from the ocular branch of the trigeminal nerve. This study was designed to comprehensively analyze alterations of corneal sub-basal nerve plexus in a mouse model of tauopathy (P301L transgenic mice) to test the possibility of using corneal nerves as a biomarker for tauopathy. Corneal sensitivity, thickness and epithelial wound healing were measured non-invasively by aeshesiometer, optical coherence tomography and fluorescein staining, respectively. Tau, corneal nerves and immune cells were examined by immunohistochemistry or Western blot. At the early stage of tauopathy, although corneal sensitivity, thickness and nerve fiber density were not greatly altered, corneal nerve abnormalities were observed in the peripheral region of young P301L mice. With aging, the density of abnormal nerves increased, while corneal sensitivity, epithelial thickness, nerve fiber density and length decreased in middle-aged P301L mice compared with WT mice. After corneal epithelial injury in young mice, no difference in reepithelialization was observed between two groups of mice, however, the regeneration of corneal nerves in P301L mice lagged behind WT mice, which was reflected by delayed recovery of corneal sensitivity, decreased corneal nerve density and length and density of CD45+ dendriform cells in P301L mice. In conclusion, our data provide compelling evidence that corneal nerves were changed in a mouse model of tauopathy in an age-dependent manner. Moreover, tau overexpression impairs corneal nerve regeneration. These results suggest that cornea may serve as a promising ocular site for the early diagnosis of tauopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengguo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ban Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Yonju Ha
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Kevin H Merkley
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Departments of Neuroscience, Cell Biology & Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
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28
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Ha Y, Ochoa LF, Solomon O, Shi S, Villarreal PP, Li S, Buscho S, Vargas G, Zhang W. Light-Sheet Microscopy of the Optic Nerve Reveals Axonal Degeneration and Microglial Activation in NMDA-Induced Retinal Injury. EC OPHTHALMOLOGY 2021; 12:23-31. [PMID: 36108311 PMCID: PMC9450914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Optic nerve degeneration is a feature of neurodegenerative eye diseases and causes irreversible vision loss. Therefore, understanding the degenerating patterns of the optic nerve is critical to find the potential therapeutic target for optic neuropathy. However, the traditional method of optic nerve degeneration has the limitations of losing spatiotemporal tissue information. Light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) is a fluorescence microscopy technique that allows capturing 3D images rapidly with a high spatial optical resolution. In this study, we evaluated the availability of LSFM on the optic nerve with NMDA injected Thy1-CFP mice. METHODS NMDA injected to both eyes of Thy1-CFP mice. After 7 days from the injection, the retina and optic nerve were collected and immunostained with anti-Iba1 antibody. NMDA excitotoxicity induced RGC, and its axon loss and microglial activation in the retina were observed using confocal microscopy. The immunostained optic nerve was completed the optical clearing process with TDE and mounted for LSFM imaging. RESULTS We found that retinal flatmounts confirmed significant loss of CFP-expressing RGC and axon degradation and loss in Thy1-CFP mice at 7 days after NMDA injection. Together with these data verifying that NMDA induces RGC and its axon loss, we confirmed that NMDA excitotoxicity induced microglia activation and leukostasis, such as increased microglia number, transform its morphology to ameboid or round, and increase in attached leukocytes in vessels. Using LSFM, we observed that CFP expressing nerve fiber was well organized and arranged parallel in vehicle treated optic nerve, whileas NMDA injected optic nerve showed axon swelling and fragmentation and loss of axon density from the anterior to the posterior regions. Furthermore, LSFM enabled the observation of microglia phenotype transformation in the entire optic nerve. Unlike microglia in vehicle injected optic nerve, microglia in NMDA injected optic nerve displayed larger soma and short process with high Iba1 expression through the entire optic nerve from the anterior to posterior. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we examined the applicability of the modified optic clearing protocol for the optic nerve and verified it enabled to acquiring of the 3D images of the optic nerve successfully revealing the complex spatial relationships between the axons, microglia and vasculature throughout the entire organ with single acquisitions. With these optimized techniques, we successfully obtained the high-resolution 3D images of NMDA-induced optic neuropathy, including the clues for optic nerve degeneration such as axon swelling, axonal fragmentation, and microglia activation. Overall, we believe that our current study could help understand the pathology of the optic nerve in neurodegenerative diseases, and it will be the basis for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonju Ha
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Lorenzo F Ochoa
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Olivia Solomon
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Human Pathophysiology and Translational Medicine Graduate Program, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Paula P Villarreal
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Shengguo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Seth Buscho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Gracie Vargas
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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29
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Visuvanathan S, Baker AN, Lagali PS, Coupland SG, Miller G, Hauswirth WW, Tsilfidis C. XIAP gene therapy effects on retinal ganglion cell structure and function in a mouse model of glaucoma. Gene Ther 2021; 29:147-156. [PMID: 34363035 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00281-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by progressive visual field loss. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. The main risk factor for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure that results in the damage and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. The death of RGCs has been shown to be apoptotic. We tested the hypothesis that blocking the activation of apoptosis may be an effective strategy to prevent RGC death and preserve functional vision in glaucoma. In the magnetic microbead mouse model of induced ocular hypertension, inhibition of RGC apoptosis was targeted through viral-mediated ocular delivery of the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) gene, a potent caspase inhibitor. Pattern electroretinograms revealed that XIAP therapy resulted in significant protection of both somal and axonal RGC function in glaucomatous eyes. Histology confirmed that the treated optic nerves showed preservation of axon counts and reduced glial cell infiltration. These results show that XIAP is able to provide both functional and structural protection of RGCs in the microbead model of glaucoma and provide important proof-of-principle for XIAP's efficacy as a neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagana Visuvanathan
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Adam N Baker
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Pamela S Lagali
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Stuart G Coupland
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Regenerative Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Garfield Miller
- Regenerative Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - William W Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Catherine Tsilfidis
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada. .,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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30
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Xia F, Ha Y, Shi S, Li Y, Li S, Luisi J, Kayed R, Motamedi M, Liu H, Zhang W. Early alterations of neurovascular unit in the retina in mouse models of tauopathy. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:51. [PMID: 33762004 PMCID: PMC7992935 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01149-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The retina, as the only visually accessible tissue in the central nervous system, has attracted significant attention for evaluating it as a biomarker for neurodegenerative diseases. Yet, most of studies focus on characterizing the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and degeneration of their axons. There is no integrated analysis addressing temporal alterations of different retinal cells in the neurovascular unit (NVU) in particular retinal vessels. Here we assessed NVU changes in two mouse models of tauopathy, P301S and P301L transgenic mice overexpressing the human tau mutated gene, and evaluated the therapeutic effects of a tau oligomer monoclonal antibody (TOMA). We found that retinal edema and breakdown of blood-retina barrier were observed at the very early stage of tauopathy. Leukocyte adhesion/infiltration, and microglial recruitment/activation were constantly increased in the retinal ganglion cell layer of tau transgenic mice at different ages, while Müller cell gliosis was only detected in relatively older tau mice. Concomitantly, the number and function of RGCs progressively decreased during aging although they were not considerably altered in the very early stage of tauopathy. Moreover, intrinsically photosensitive RGCs appeared more sensitive to tauopathy. Remarkably, TOMA treatment in young tau transgenic mice significantly attenuated vascular leakage, inflammation and RGC loss. Our data provide compelling evidence that abnormal tau accumulation can lead to pathology in the retinal NVU, and vascular alterations occur more manifest and earlier than neurodegeneration in the retina. Oligomeric tau-targeted immunotherapy has the potential to treat tau-induced retinopathies. These data suggest that retinal NVU may serve as a potential biomarker for diagnosis and staging of tauopathy as well as a platform to study the molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Yonju Ha
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Shuizhen Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Shengguo Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Jonathan Luisi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX USA
| | - Rakez Kayed
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX USA
| | - Massoud Motamedi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-0144 USA
- Departments of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX USA
- Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555 USA
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31
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Robichaux WG, Mei FC, Yang W, Wang H, Sun H, Zhou Z, Milewicz DM, Teng BB, Cheng X. Epac1 (Exchange Protein Directly Activated by cAMP 1) Upregulates LOX-1 (Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor 1) to Promote Foam Cell Formation and Atherosclerosis Development. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:e322-e335. [PMID: 33054390 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.314238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The cAMP second messenger system, a major stress-response pathway, plays essential roles in normal cardiovascular functions and in pathogenesis of heart diseases. Here, we test the hypothesis that the Epac1 (exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1) acts as a major downstream effector of cAMP signaling to promote atherogenesis and represents a novel therapeutic target. Approach and Results: To ascertain Epac1's function in atherosclerosis development, a triple knockout mouse model (LTe) was generated by crossing Epac1-/- mice with atherosclerosis-prone LDb mice lacking both Ldlr and Apobec1. Deletion of Epac1 led to a significant reduction of atherosclerotic lesion formation as measured by postmortem staining, accompanied by attenuated macrophage/foam cell infiltrations within atherosclerotic plaques as determined by immunofluorescence staining in LTe animals compared with LDb littermates. Primary bone marrow-derived macrophages were isolated from Epac1-null and wild-type mice to investigate the role of Epac1 in lipid uptake and foam cell formation. ox-LDLs (oxidized low-density lipoproteins) stimulation of bone marrow-derived macrophages led to elevated intracellular cAMP and Epac1 levels, whereas an Epac-specific agonist, increased lipid accumulation in wild-type, but not Epac1-null, bone marrow-derived macrophages. Mechanistically, Epac1 acts through PKC (protein kinase C) to upregulate LOX-1 (ox-LDL receptor 1), a major scavenger receptor for ox-LDL uptake, exerting a feedforward mechanism with ox-LDL to increase lipid uptake and propel foam cell formation and atherogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates a fundamental role of cAMP/Epac1 signaling in vascular remodeling by promoting ox-LDL uptake and foam cell formation during atherosclerosis lesion development. Therefore, Epac1 represents a promising, unexplored therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Robichaux
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Texas Therapeutics Institute (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Fang C Mei
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Texas Therapeutics Institute (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Wenli Yang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Texas Therapeutics Institute (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Texas Therapeutics Institute (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Hua Sun
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Zhen Zhou
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine (Z.Z., D.M.M.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Dianna M Milewicz
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine (Z.Z., D.M.M.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Ba-Bie Teng
- Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., H.S., B.-B.T.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.,Texas Therapeutics Institute (W.G.R., F.C.M., W.Y., H.W., X.C.), McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
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Choi SH, Kim KY, Perkins GA, Phan S, Edwards G, Xia Y, Kim J, Skowronska-Krawczyk D, Weinreb RN, Ellisman MH, Miller YI, Ju WK. AIBP protects retinal ganglion cells against neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Redox Biol 2020; 37:101703. [PMID: 32896719 PMCID: PMC7484594 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide in individuals 60 years of age and older. Despite its high prevalence, the factors contributing to glaucoma progression are currently not well characterized. Glia-driven neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction play critical roles in glaucomatous neurodegeneration. Here, we demonstrated that elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) significantly decreased apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP; gene name Apoa1bp) in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), but resulted in upregulation of TLR4 and IL-1β expression in Müller glia endfeet. Apoa1bp-/- mice had impaired visual function and Müller glia characterized by upregulated TLR4 activity, impaired mitochondrial network and function, increased oxidative stress and induced inflammatory responses. We also found that AIBP deficiency compromised mitochondrial network and function in RGCs and exacerbated RGC vulnerability to elevated IOP. Administration of recombinant AIBP prevented RGC death and inhibited inflammatory responses and cytokine production in Müller glia in vivo. These findings indicate that AIBP protects RGCs against glia-driven neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucomatous neurodegeneration and suggest that recombinant AIBP may be a potential therapeutic agent for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo-Ho Choi
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Keun-Young Kim
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Guy A Perkins
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sébastien Phan
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Genea Edwards
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yining Xia
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jungsu Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Dorota Skowronska-Krawczyk
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics & Ophthalmology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Robert N Weinreb
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Mark H Ellisman
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yury I Miller
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Won-Kyu Ju
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center and Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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33
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Formoso K, Lezoualc'h F, Mialet-Perez J. Role of EPAC1 Signalosomes in Cell Fate: Friends or Foes? Cells 2020; 9:E1954. [PMID: 32854274 PMCID: PMC7563956 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The compartmentation of signaling processes is accomplished by the assembly of protein complexes called signalosomes. These signaling platforms colocalize enzymes, substrates, and anchoring proteins into specific subcellular compartments. Exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1) is an effector of the second messenger, 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) that is associated with multiple roles in several pathologies including cardiac diseases. Both EPAC1 intracellular localization and molecular partners are key players in the regulation of cell fate, which may have important therapeutic potential. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on EPAC1 structure, regulation, and pharmacology. We describe the importance of EPAC1 subcellular distribution in its biological action, paying special attention to its nuclear localization and mechanism of action leading to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In addition, we discuss the role of mitochondrial EPAC1 in the regulation of cell death. Depending on the cell type and stress condition, we present evidence that supports either a protective or detrimental role of EPAC1 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Formoso
- INSERM UMR-1048, Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, and Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Frank Lezoualc'h
- INSERM UMR-1048, Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, and Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, 31432 Toulouse, France
| | - Jeanne Mialet-Perez
- INSERM UMR-1048, Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases, and Université de Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, 31432 Toulouse, France
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34
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Steinle JJ. Review: Role of cAMP signaling in diabetic retinopathy. Mol Vis 2020; 26:355-358. [PMID: 32476815 PMCID: PMC7245604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of research, diabetic retinopathy remains the leading cause of blindness in working age adults. Treatments for early phases for the disease remain elusive. One pathway that appears to regulate neuronal, vascular, and inflammatory components of diabetic retinopathy is the cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cAMP) pathway. In this review, we discuss the current literature on cAMP actions on the retina, with a focus on neurovascular changes commonly associated with preproliferative diabetic retinopathy models.
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