1
|
Peng SY, Chen CY, Chen H, Yang YP, Wang ML, Tsai FT, Chien CS, Weng PY, Tsai ET, Wang IC, Hsu CC, Lin TC, Hwang DK, Chen SJ, Chiou SH, Chiao CC, Chien Y. Inhibition of angiogenesis by the secretome from iPSC-derived retinal ganglion cells with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy-like phenotypes. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117270. [PMID: 39126773 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood supply in the retina ensures photoreceptor function and maintains regular vision. Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), caused by the mitochondrial DNA mutations that deteriorate complex I activity, is characterized by progressive vision loss. Although some reports indicated retinal vasculature abnormalities as one of the comorbidities in LHON, the paracrine influence of LHON-affected retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) on vascular endothelial cell physiology remains unclear. To address this, we established an in vitro model of mitochondrial complex I deficiency using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RGCs (iPSC-RGCs) treated with a mitochondrial complex I inhibitor rotenone (Rot) to recapitulate LHON pathologies. The secretomes from Rot-treated iPSC-RGCs (Rot-iPSC-RGCs) were collected, and their treatment effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was studied. Rot induced LHON-like characteristics in iPSC-RGCs, including decreased mitochondrial complex I activity and membrane potential, and increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. When HUVECs were exposed to conditioned media (CM) from Rot-iPSC-RGCs, the angiogenesis of HUVECs was suppressed compared to those treated with CM from control iPSC-RGCs (Ctrl-iPSC-RGCs). Angiogenesis-related proteins were altered in the secretomes from Rot-iPSC-RGC-derived CM, particularly angiopoietin, MMP-9, uPA, collagen XVIII, and VEGF were reduced. Notably, GeneMANIA analysis indicated that VEGFA emerged as the pivotal angiogenesis-related protein among the identified proteins secreted by health iPSC-RGCs but reduced in the secretomes from Rot-iPSC-RGCs. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blots confirmed the reduction of VEGFA at both transcription and translation levels, respectively. Our study reveals that Rot-iPSC-RGCs establish a microenvironment to diminish the angiogenic potential of vascular cells nearby, shedding light on the paracrine regulation of LHON-affected RGCs on retinal vasculature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Yuan Peng
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-Ying Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsin Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yi-Ping Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Food Safety and Health Risk Assessment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Mong-Lien Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Food Safety and Health Risk Assessment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Fu-Ting Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chian-Shiu Chien
- Institute of Physiology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Pei-Yu Weng
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - En-Tung Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - I-Chieh Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-Chien Hsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tai-Chi Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - De-Kuang Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shih-Jen Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112201, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112201, Taiwan, ROC; Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Chuan-Chin Chiao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Yueh Chien
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan, ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Giacalone JC, Parkinson DH, Balikov DA, Rajesh CR. AMD and Stem Cell-Based Therapies. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2024; 64:21-33. [PMID: 38146879 PMCID: PMC10783850 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent and complex disease leading to severe vision loss. Stem cells offer promising prospects for AMD treatment as they can be differentiated into critical retinal cell types that could replace lost host retinal cells or provide trophic support to promote host retinal cell survival. However, challenges such as immune rejection, concerns regarding tumorigenicity, and genomic integrity must be addressed. Clinical trials with stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells have shown preliminary safety in treating dry AMD, but improvements in manufacturing and surgical techniques cell delivery are needed. Late-stage AMD poses additional hurdles, possibly requiring multi-layered grafts. Advancements in automation technologies and gene correction strategies show potential to enhance iPSC-based therapies. Stem cell-based treatments offer hope for AMD management, but further research and optimization are essential for successful clinical implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph C. Giacalone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - David H. Parkinson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daniel A. Balikov
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - C. Rao Rajesh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Division of Ophthalmology, Surgical Service, Veterans Administration Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta S, Lytvynchuk L, Ardan T, Studenovska H, Sharma R, Faura G, Eide L, Shanker Verma R, Znaor L, Erceg S, Stieger K, Motlik J, Petrovski G, Bharti K. Progress in Stem Cells-Based Replacement Therapy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Vitro Differentiation to In Vivo Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:536-552. [PMID: 37459045 PMCID: PMC10427969 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad039] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a critical cell monolayer forming the blood-retina-barrier (BRB) and a permeable bridge between the choriocapillaris and the retina. RPE is also crucial in maintaining photoreceptor function and for completing the visual cycle. Loss of the RPE is associated with the development of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To treat diseases like AMD, pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (pRPE) has been recently explored extensively as a regenerative module. pRPE like other ectodermal tissues requires specific lineage differentiation and long-term in vitro culturing for maturation. Therefore, understanding the differentiation process of RPE could be useful for stem cell-based RPE derivation. Developing pRPE-based transplants and delivering them into the subretinal space is another aspect that has garnered interest in the last decade. In this review, we discuss the basic strategies currently employed for stem cell-based RPE derivation, their delivery, and recent clinical studies related to pRPE transplantation in patients. We have also discussed a few limitations with in vitro RPE culture and potential solutions to overcome such problems which can be helpful in developing functional RPE tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Gupta
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Karl Landsteiner Institute for Retinal Research and Imaging, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Studenovska
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioanalogous Systems, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Faura
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rama Shanker Verma
- Stem Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences. Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ljubo Znaor
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Research Center “Principe Felipe,” Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Knut Stieger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan Motlik
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dong C, Zou D, Duan H, Hu X, Zhou Q, Shi W, Li Z. Ex vivo cultivated retinal pigment epithelial cell transplantation for the treatment of rabbit corneal endothelial dysfunction. EYE AND VISION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 10:34. [PMID: 37528478 PMCID: PMC10394777 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-023-00351-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stem cell therapy is a promising strategy for the treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction, and the need to find functional alternative seed cells of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) is urgent. Here, we determined the feasibility of using the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) as an equivalent substitute for the treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction. METHODS RPE cells and CECs in situ were obtained from healthy New Zealand male rabbits, and the similarities and differences between them were analyzed by electron microscopy, immunofluorescent staining, and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Rabbit primary RPE cells and CECs were isolated and cultivated ex vivo, and Na+/K+-ATPase activity and cellular permeability were detected at passage 2. The injection of cultivated rabbit primary RPE cells, CECs and human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE cells was performed on rabbits with corneal endothelial dysfunction. Then, the therapeutic effects were evaluated by corneal transparency, central corneal thickness, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), qRT-PCR and immunofluorescent staining. RESULTS The rabbit RPE cells were similar in form to CECs in situ and ex vivo, showing a larger regular hexagonal shape and a lower cell density, with numerous tightly formed cell junctions and hemidesmosomes. Moreover, RPE cells presented a stronger barrier and ionic pumping capacity than CECs. When intracamerally injected into the rabbits, the transplanted primary RPE cells could dissolve corneal edema and decrease corneal thickness, with effects similar to those of CECs. In addition, the transplantation of hESC-derived RPE cells exhibited a similar therapeutic effect and restored corneal transparency and thickness within seven days. qRT-PCR results showed that the expressions of CEC markers, like CD200 and S100A4, increased, and the RPE markers OTX2, BEST1 and MITF significantly decreased in the transplanted RPE cells. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that rabbits transplanted with hESC-derived RPE cells maintained normal corneal thickness and exhibited slight pigmentation in the central cornea one month after surgery. Immunostaining results showed that the HuNu-positive transplanted cells survived and expressed ZO1, ATP1A1 and MITF. CONCLUSION RPE cells and CECs showed high structural and functional similarities in barrier and pump characteristics. Intracameral injection of primary RPE cells and hESC-derived RPE cells can effectively restore rabbit corneal clarity and thickness and maintain normal corneal function. This study is the first to report the effectiveness of RPE cells for corneal endothelial dysfunction, suggesting the feasibility of hESC-derived RPE cells as an equivalent substitute for CECs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Dong
- Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Dulei Zou
- Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Xiangyue Hu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Zongyi Li
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Benhar I, Ding J, Yan W, Whitney IE, Jacobi A, Sud M, Burgin G, Shekhar K, Tran NM, Wang C, He Z, Sanes JR, Regev A. Temporal single-cell atlas of non-neuronal retinal cells reveals dynamic, coordinated multicellular responses to central nervous system injury. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:700-713. [PMID: 36807640 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01437-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Non-neuronal cells are key to the complex cellular interplay that follows central nervous system insult. To understand this interplay, we generated a single-cell atlas of immune, glial and retinal pigment epithelial cells from adult mouse retina before and at multiple time points after axonal transection. We identified rare subsets in naive retina, including interferon (IFN)-response glia and border-associated macrophages, and delineated injury-induced changes in cell composition, expression programs and interactions. Computational analysis charted a three-phase multicellular inflammatory cascade after injury. In the early phase, retinal macroglia and microglia were reactivated, providing chemotactic signals concurrent with infiltration of CCR2+ monocytes from the circulation. These cells differentiated into macrophages in the intermediate phase, while an IFN-response program, likely driven by microglia-derived type I IFN, was activated across resident glia. The late phase indicated inflammatory resolution. Our findings provide a framework to decipher cellular circuitry, spatial relationships and molecular interactions following tissue injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inbal Benhar
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Jiarui Ding
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Computer Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wenjun Yan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Irene E Whitney
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anne Jacobi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Malika Sud
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Grace Burgin
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Karthik Shekhar
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas M Tran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chen Wang
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhigang He
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua R Sanes
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Aviv Regev
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu Q, Liu J, Higuchi A. hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of macular degeneration. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 199:227-269. [PMID: 37678973 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Macular degeneration (MD) is a group of diseases characterized by irreversible and progressive vision loss. Patients with MD suffer from severely impaired central vision, especially elderly people. Currently, only one type of MD, wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), can be treated with anti-vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) drugs. Other types of MD remain difficult to treat. With the advent of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) and their differentiation into retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), it is promising to treat patients with MD by transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE into the subretinal space. In this review, the current progress in hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of patients with MD is described from bench to bedside, including hPSC differentiation into RPE and the characterization and usage of hPSC-derived RPE for transplantation into patients with MD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cell Development: Extrapolating Basic Biology to Stem Cell Research. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020310. [PMID: 36830851 PMCID: PMC9952929 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms an important cellular monolayer, which contributes to the normal physiology of the eye. Damage to the RPE leads to the development of degenerative diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Apart from acting as a physical barrier between the retina and choroidal blood vessels, the RPE is crucial in maintaining photoreceptor (PR) and visual functions. Current clinical intervention to treat early stages of AMD includes stem cell-derived RPE transplantation, which is still in its early stages of evolution. Therefore, it becomes essential to derive RPEs which are functional and exhibit features as observed in native human RPE cells. The conventional strategy is to use the knowledge obtained from developmental studies using various animal models and stem cell-based exploratory studies to understand RPE biogenies and developmental trajectory. This article emphasises such studies and aims to present a comprehensive understanding of the basic biology, including the genetics and molecular pathways of RPE development. It encompasses basic developmental biology and stem cell-based developmental studies to uncover RPE differentiation. Knowledge of the in utero developmental cues provides an inclusive methodology required for deriving RPEs using stem cells.
Collapse
|
8
|
Dehghan S, Mirshahi R, Shoae-Hassani A, Naseripour M. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells-derived retinal pigmented epithelium, a new horizon for cells-based therapies for age-related macular degeneration. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:217. [PMID: 35619143 PMCID: PMC9137077 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02894-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration is the hallmark of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD, as one of the most common causes of irreversible visual impairment worldwide, remains in need of an appropriate approach to restore retinal function. Wet AMD, which is characterized by neovascular formation, can be stabilized by currently available therapies, including laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, and intraocular injections of anti-VEFG (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) therapy or a combination of these modalities. Unlike wet AMD, there is no effective therapy for progressive dry (non-neovascular) AMD. However, stem cell-based therapies, a part of regenerative medicine, have shown promising results for retinal degenerative diseases such as AMD. The goal of RPE cell therapy is to return the normal structure and function of the retina by re-establishing its interaction with photoreceptors, which is essential to vision. Considering the limited source of naturally occurring RPE cells, recent progress in stem cell research has allowed the generation of RPE cells from human pluripotent cells, both embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). Since iPSCs face neither ethical arguments nor significant immunological considerations when compared to ESCs, they open a new horizon for cell therapy of AMD. The current study aims to discuss AMD, review the protocols for making human iPSCs-derived RPEs, and summarize recent developments in the field of iPSC-derived RPEs cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Dehghan
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mirshahi
- Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Shoae-Hassani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masood Naseripour
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
German OL, Vallese-Maurizi H, Soto TB, Rotstein NP, Politi LE. Retina stem cells, hopes and obstacles. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1446-1479. [PMID: 34786153 PMCID: PMC8567457 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i10.1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a major contributor to visual dysfunction worldwide. Although it comprises several eye diseases, loss of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and photoreceptor cells are the major contributors to their pathogenesis. Early therapies included diverse treatments, such as provision of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and many survival and trophic factors that, in some cases, slow down the progression of the degeneration, but do not effectively prevent it. The finding of stem cells (SC) in the eye has led to the proposal of cell replacement strategies for retina degeneration. Therapies using different types of SC, such as retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), embryonic SC, pluripotent SCs (PSCs), induced PSCs (iPSCs), and mesenchymal stromal cells, capable of self-renewal and of differentiating into multiple cell types, have gained ample support. Numerous preclinical studies have assessed transplantation of SC in animal models, with encouraging results. The aim of this work is to revise the different preclinical and clinical approaches, analyzing the SC type used, their efficacy, safety, cell attachment and integration, absence of tumor formation and immunorejection, in order to establish which were the most relevant and successful. In addition, we examine the questions and concerns still open in the field. The data demonstrate the existence of two main approaches, aimed at replacing either RPE cells or photoreceptors. Emerging evidence suggests that RPCs and iPSC are the best candidates, presenting no ethical concerns and a low risk of immunorejection. Clinical trials have already supported the safety and efficacy of SC treatments. Serious concerns are pending, such as the risk of tumor formation, lack of attachment or integration of transplanted cells into host retinas, immunorejection, cell death, and also ethical. However, the amazing progress in the field in the last few years makes it possible to envisage safe and effective treatments to restore vision loss in a near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga L German
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Harmonie Vallese-Maurizi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tamara B Soto
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nora P Rotstein
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis Enrique Politi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kasendra M, Troutt M, Broda T, Bacon WC, Wang TC, Niland JC, Helmrath MA. Intestinal organoids: roadmap to the clinic. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2021; 321:G1-G10. [PMID: 33950707 PMCID: PMC8321798 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00425.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in intestinal organoid research, along with encouraging preclinical proof-of-concept studies, have revealed significant therapeutic potential for induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived organoids in the healing and replacement of severely injured or diseased bowel (Finkbeiner et al. Biol Open 4: 1462-1472, 2015; Kitano et al. Nat Commun 8: 765, 2017; Cruz-Acuna et al. Nat Cell Biol 19: 1326-1335, 2017). To fully realize the tremendous promise of stem cell organoid-based therapies, careful planning aligned with significant resources and efforts must be devoted demonstrating their safety and efficacy to meet critical regulatory requirements. Early recognition of the inherent preclinical and clinical obstacles that occur with the novel use of pluripotent stem cell-derived products will accelerate their bench-to-bedside translation (Neofytou et al. J Clin Invest 125: 2551-2557, 2015; O'Brien et al. Stem Cell Res Ther 6: 146, 2015; Ouseph et al. Cytotherapy 17: 339-343, 2015). To overcome many of these hurdles, a close and effective collaboration is needed between experts from various disciplines, including basic and clinical research, product development and manufacturing, quality assurance and control, and regulatory affairs. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to outline the critical areas and challenges that must be addressed when transitioning laboratory-based discovery, through an investigational new drug (IND) application to first-in-human clinical trial, and to encourage investigators to consider the required regulatory steps from the earliest stage of the translational process. The ultimate goal is to provide readers with a draft roadmap that they could use while navigating this exciting cell therapy space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kasendra
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Misty Troutt
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Taylor Broda
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - W Clark Bacon
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Timothy C Wang
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York
| | - Joyce C Niland
- Department of Diabetes and Cancer Discovery Science, City of Hope, Duarte, California
| | - Michael A Helmrath
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Khan AZ, Utheim TP, Moe MC, Aass HCD, Sapkota D, Vallenari EM, Eidet JR. The Silk Protein Sericin Promotes Viability of ARPE-19 and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells in vitro. Curr Eye Res 2020; 46:504-514. [PMID: 32777180 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2020.1809001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Maintaining mature and viable retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) in vitro has proven challenging. Investigating compounds that can promote RPE-viability and maturation is motivated by RPE transplantation research, the quest to understand RPE physiology, and a desire to modulate RPE in pathological states. We have previously reported that the silk protein sericin promotes viability, maturation, and pigmentation of human fetal RPE. In the present study, our aim was to uncover whether these effects can be seen in adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (iPSC-RPE). METHODS ARPE-19 and iPSC-RPE were cultured with or without 10 mg/mL sericin. After 7 days, viability was assessed with calcein-acetoxymethyl ester (CAM) and ethidium homodimer-1 (EH-1) assays, flow cytometry, and morphometric analysis. Expression levels of RPE65, tyrosinase, and Pmel17 were quantified to compare maturation between the sericin-treated and control cultures. Light microscopy and staining of the tight junction protein zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1) were employed to study sericin's effects on RPE morphology. We also measured culture medium pH, glucose, lactate, and extracellular ion content. RESULTS Sericin-supplemented RPE cultures demonstrated significantly better viability compared to control cultures. Sericin appeared to improve ARPE-19 maturation and morphology in vitro. No effects were seen on RPE pigmentation with the concentration of sericin and duration of cell culture herein reported. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to demonstrate that supplementing the culture media with sericin promotes the viability of iPSC-RPE and ARPE-19. Sericin's viability-promoting effects may have important implications for retinal therapeutics and regenerative medicine research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayyad Zartasht Khan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Morten Carstens Moe
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Dipak Sapkota
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Jon Roger Eidet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Boon N, Wijnholds J, Pellissier LP. Research Models and Gene Augmentation Therapy for CRB1 Retinal Dystrophies. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:860. [PMID: 32922261 PMCID: PMC7456964 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) are inherited degenerative retinal dystrophies with vision loss that ultimately lead to blindness. Several genes have been shown to be involved in early onset retinal dystrophies, including CRB1 and RPE65. Gene therapy recently became available for young RP patients with variations in the RPE65 gene. Current research programs test adeno-associated viral gene augmentation or editing therapy vectors on various disease models mimicking the disease in patients. These include several animal and emerging human-derived models, such as human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived retinal organoids or hiPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and human donor retinal explants. Variations in the CRB1 gene are a major cause for early onset autosomal recessive RP with patients suffering from visual impairment before their adolescence and for LCA with newborns experiencing severe visual impairment within the first months of life. These patients cannot benefit yet from an available gene therapy treatment. In this review, we will discuss the recent advances, advantages and disadvantages of different CRB1 human and animal retinal degeneration models. In addition, we will describe novel therapeutic tools that have been developed, which could potentially be used for retinal gene augmentation therapy for RP patients with variations in the CRB1 gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nanda Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lucie P Pellissier
- Biology and Bioinformatics of Signalling Systems, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Neuronal Reprogramming for Tissue Repair and Neuroregeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124273. [PMID: 32560072 PMCID: PMC7352898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell and cell reprogramming technology represent a rapidly growing field in regenerative medicine. A number of novel neural reprogramming methods have been established, using pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) or direct reprogramming, to efficiently derive specific neuronal cell types for therapeutic applications. Both in vitro and in vivo cellular reprogramming provide diverse therapeutic pathways for modeling neurological diseases and injury repair. In particular, the retina has emerged as a promising target for clinical application of regenerative medicine. Herein, we review the potential of neuronal reprogramming to develop regenerative strategy, with a particular focus on treating retinal degenerative diseases and discuss future directions and challenges in the field.
Collapse
|
14
|
Marcu IC, Eberhard N, Yerly A, Balmer V, Hemphill A, Mogel H, Gaschen V, Stoffel MH, Bluteau J. Isolation of Human Small Extracellular Vesicles and Tracking of their Uptake by Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3799. [PMID: 32471212 PMCID: PMC7313035 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (EVs) are among the most frequently investigated EVs and play major roles in intercellular communication by delivering various cargo molecules to target cells. They could potentially represent an alternative delivery strategy to treat ocular toxoplasmosis, a parasitosis affecting the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). To date, the uptake of human small EVs by RPE cells has never been reported. In this study, we report on the intracellular uptake of fluorescently labelled human urine and fibroblast-derived small EVs by human RPE cells. In summary, both dye-labelled urinary small EVs and small EVs obtained from fibroblasts stably expressing membrane-bound green fluorescent protein were successfully internalized by RPE cells as revealed by immunohistochemistry. In recipient ARPE19 cells, BODIPY-labelled small EVs were found in close vicinity to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Additionally, an ultrastructural method was enabled to distinguish between labelled exogenous and endogenous small EVs within target cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene C. Marcu
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Naja Eberhard
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (N.E.); (V.B.); (A.H.)
| | - Anaïs Yerly
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Verena Balmer
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (N.E.); (V.B.); (A.H.)
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (N.E.); (V.B.); (A.H.)
| | - Helga Mogel
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Véronique Gaschen
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Michael H. Stoffel
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Jasmin Bluteau
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (I.C.M.); (A.Y.); (H.M.); (V.G.); (M.H.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Michelet F, Balasankar A, Teo N, Stanton LW, Singhal S. Rapid generation of purified human RPE from pluripotent stem cells using 2D cultures and lipoprotein uptake-based sorting. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:47. [PMID: 32014053 PMCID: PMC6998340 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-1568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite increasing demand, current protocols for human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) remain time, labor, and cost intensive. Additionally, absence of robust methods for selective RPE purification and removal of non-RPE cell impurities prevents upscaling of clinical quality RPE production. We aimed to address these challenges by developing a simplified hPSC-derived RPE production and purification system that yields high-quality RPE monolayers within 90 days. Methods Human pluripotent stem cells were differentiated into RPE using an innovative time and cost-effective protocol relying entirely on 2D cultures and minimal use of cytokines. Once RPE identity was obtained, cells were transferred onto permeable membranes to acquire mature RPE morphology. RPE differentiation was verified by electron microscopy, polarized VEGF expression, establishment of high transepithelial electrical resistance and photoreceptor phagocytosis assay. After 4 weeks on permeable membranes, RPE cell cultures were incubated with Dil-AcLDL (DiI-conjugated acetylated low-density lipoproteins) and subjected to fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) for purification and subculture. Results Using our 2D cytokine scarce protocol, hPSC-derived functional RPE cells can be obtained within 2 months. Nevertheless, at this stage, most samples contain a percentage of non-RPE/early RPE progenitor cells that make them unsuitable for clinical application. We demonstrate that functional RPE cells express high levels of lipoprotein receptors and that this correlates with their ability to uptake lipoproteins. Combining photoreceptor uptake assay with lipoprotein uptake assay further confirms that only functional RPE cells uptake AcLDL. Incubation of mixed RPE/non-RPE cell cultures with fluorophore conjugated AcLDL and subsequent FACS-based isolation of labeled cells allows selective purification of mature functional RPE. When subcultured, DiI-AcLDL-labeled cells rapidly form pure homogenous high-quality RPE monolayers. Conclusions Pure functional RPE monolayers can be derived from hPSC within 90 days using simplified 2D cultures in conjunction with our RPE PLUS protocol (RPE Purification by Lipoprotein Uptake-based Sorting). The simplicity of this protocol makes it scalable, and the rapidity of production and purification allows for high-quality RPE to be produced in a short span of time making them ideally suited for downstream clinical and in vitro applications. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-020-1568-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Michelet
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Aishwarya Balasankar
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Lawrence W Stanton
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology Group, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shweta Singhal
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS, Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
MicroRNA profiling reveals important functions of miR-125b and let-7a during human retinal pigment epithelial cell differentiation. Exp Eye Res 2020; 190:107883. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
17
|
Robust induction of retinal pigment epithelium cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells by inhibiting FGF/MAPK signaling. Stem Cell Res 2019; 39:101514. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2019.101514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
|
18
|
Stem cell-based retina models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 140:33-50. [PMID: 29777757 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
From the early days of cell biological research, the eye-especially the retina-has evoked broad interest among scientists. The retina has since been thoroughly investigated and numerous models have been exploited to shed light on its development, morphology, and function. Apart from various animal models and human clinical and anatomical research, stem cell-based models of animal and human cells of origin have entered the field, especially during the last decade. Despite the observation that the retina of different species comprises endogenous stem cells, most stem cell-related research in the human retina is now based on pluripotent stem cell models. Herein, systems of two-dimensional (2D) cultures and co-cultures of distinctly differentiated retinal subtypes revealed a variety of cellular aspects but have in many aspects been replaced by three-dimensional (3D) structures-the so-called retinal organoids. These organoids not only contain all major retinal cell subtypes compared to the physiological situation, but also show a distinct layering in close proximity to the in vivo morphology. Nevertheless, all these models have inherent advantages and disadvantages, which are expounded and summarized in this review. Finally, we discuss current application aspects of stem cell-based retina models and the specific promises they hold for the future.
Collapse
|
19
|
Artero-Castro A, Popelka S, Jendelova P, Motlik J, Ardan T, Rodriguez Jimenez FJ, Erceg S. The identification of small molecules that stimulate retinal pigment epithelial cells: potential novel therapeutic options for treating retinopathies. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2019; 14:169-177. [PMID: 30616395 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2019.1559148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Combinatory strategies using pharmacology and stem cell therapy have emerged due to their potential in the treatment of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell related diseases, and a variety of different stem cell sources have been evaluated both in animal models and in humans. RPE cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human induced pluripotent cells (hiPSCs) are already in clinical trials, holding great promise for the treatment of age-related macular disease (AMD) and hereditary RPE-related retinal dystrophies. Highly efficient protocol for RPE generations have been developed, but they are still time-consuming and laborious. Areas covered: The authors review RPE related diseases, as well as the known functions of RPE cells in retinal homeostasis. The authors also discuss small molecules that target RPE in vivo as well as in vitro to aid RPE differentiation from pluripotent stem cells clinically. The authors base this review on literature searches performed through PubMed. Expert opinion: Using high-throughput systems, technology will provide the possibility of identifying and optimizing molecules/drugs that could lead to faster and simpler protocols for RPE differentiation. This could be crucial in moving forward to create safer and more efficient RPE-based personalized therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Artero-Castro
- a Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab , Research Center "Principe Felipe" , Valencia , Spain
| | - Stepan Popelka
- b Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry , Czech Academy of Sciences , Praha 6 , Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Jendelova
- c Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Tissue Cultures and Stem Cells , Czech Academy of Sciences , Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Jan Motlik
- d Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Research Center PIGMOD , Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences , Libechov , Czech Republic
| | - Taras Ardan
- d Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Research Center PIGMOD , Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences , Libechov , Czech Republic
| | | | - Slaven Erceg
- a Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab , Research Center "Principe Felipe" , Valencia , Spain.,c Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Tissue Cultures and Stem Cells , Czech Academy of Sciences , Prague , Czech Republic.,e National Stem Cell Bank-Valencia Node, Biomolecular and Bioinformatics Resources Platform PRB2,ISCIII , Research Center "Principe Felipe" , Valencia , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rabesandratana O, Goureau O, Orieux G. Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Approaches to Explore and Treat Optic Neuropathies. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:651. [PMID: 30294255 PMCID: PMC6158340 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sight is a major sense for human and visual impairment profoundly affects quality of life, especially retinal degenerative diseases which are the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. As for other neurodegenerative disorders, almost all retinal dystrophies are characterized by the specific loss of one or two cell types, such as retinal ganglion cells, photoreceptor cells, or retinal pigmented epithelial cells. This feature is a critical point when dealing with cell replacement strategies considering that the preservation of other cell types and retinal circuitry is a prerequisite. Retinal ganglion cells are particularly vulnerable to degenerative process and glaucoma, the most common optic neuropathy, is a frequent retinal dystrophy. Cell replacement has been proposed as a potential approach to take on the challenge of visual restoration, but its application to optic neuropathies is particularly challenging. Many obstacles need to be overcome before any clinical application. Beyond their survival and differentiation, engrafted cells have to reconnect with both upstream synaptic retinal cell partners and specific targets in the brain. To date, reconnection of retinal ganglion cells with distal central targets appears unrealistic since central nervous system is refractory to regenerative processes. Significant progress on the understanding of molecular mechanisms that prevent central nervous system regeneration offer hope to overcome this obstacle in the future. At the same time, emergence of reprogramming of human somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells has facilitated both the generation of new source of cells with therapeutic potential and the development of innovative methods for the generation of transplantable cells. In this review, we discuss the feasibility of stem cell-based strategies applied to retinal ganglion cells and optic nerve impairment. We present the different strategies for the generation, characterization and the delivery of transplantable retinal ganglion cells derived from pluripotent stem cells. The relevance of pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoid and retinal ganglion cells for disease modeling or drug screening will be also introduced in the context of optic neuropathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| | - Gaël Orieux
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Behroozi F, Abdkhodaie MJ, Abandansari HS, Satarian L, Ashtiani MK, Jaafari MR, Baharvand H. Smart liposomal drug delivery for treatment of oxidative stress model in human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells. Int J Pharm 2018; 548:62-72. [PMID: 29802900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated in the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Treatment with antioxidants seems to delay progression of AMD. In this study, we suggested an antioxidant delivery system based on redox-sensitive liposome composed of phospholipids and a diselenide centered alkyl chain. Dynamic light scattering assessment indicated that the liposomes had an average size of 140 nm with a polydispersity index below 0.2. The percentage of encapsulation efficiency of the liposomes was calculated by high-performance liquid chromatography. The carriers were loaded with N-acetyl cysteine as a model antioxidant drug. We demonstrated responsiveness of the nanocarrier and its efficiency in drug delivery in an oxidative stress model of human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (hESC-RPE) cells. The modeled cells treated with diselenide containing liposomes loaded with 10 mM NAC, showed a better therapeutic effect with a cell metabolic activity of 90%, which was significantly higher compared to insensitive liposomes or NAC treated groups (P < 0.05). In addition, the expression of oxidative-sensitive gene markers in diselenide containing liposomes groups were improved. Our results demonstrated fabricated smart liposomes opens new opportunity for targeted treatment of retinal degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Behroozi
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Sadeghi Abandansari
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Satarian
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi Ashtiani
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chuang JH, Yarmishyn AA, Hwang DK, Hsu CC, Wang ML, Yang YP, Chien KH, Chiou SH, Peng CH, Chen SJ. Expression profiling of cell-intrinsic regulators in the process of differentiation of human iPSCs into retinal lineages. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:140. [PMID: 29751772 PMCID: PMC5948821 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0848-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into retinal lineages offers great potential for medical application. Therefore, it is of crucial importance to know the key intrinsic regulators of differentiation and the specific biomarker signatures of cell lineages. METHODS In this study, we used microarrays to analyze transcriptomes of terminally differentiated retinal ganglion cell (RGC) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) lineages, as well as intermediate retinal progenitor cells of optic vesicles (OVs) derived from hiPSCs. In our analysis, we specifically focused on the classes of transcripts that encode intrinsic regulators of gene expression: the transcription factors (TFs) and epigenetic chromatin state regulators. We applied two criteria for the selection of potentially important regulators and markers: firstly, the magnitude of fold-change of upregulation; secondly, the contrasted pattern of differential expression between OV, RGC and RPE lineages. RESULTS We found that among the most highly overexpressed TF-encoding genes in the OV/RGC lineage were three members of the Collier/Olfactory-1/Early B-cell family: EBF1, EBF2 and EBF3. Knockdown of EBF1 led to significant impairment of differentiation of hiPSCs into RGCs. EBF1 was shown to act upstream of ISL1 and BRN3A, the well-characterized regulators of RGC lineage specification. TF-encoding genes DLX1, DLX2 and INSM1 were the most highly overexpressed genes in the OVs, indicating their important role in the early stages of retinal differentiation. Along with MITF, the two paralogs, BHLHE41 and BHLHE40, were the most robust TF markers of RPE cells. The markedly contrasted expression of ACTL6B, encoding the component of chromatin remodeling complex SWI/SNF, discriminated hiPSC-derived OV/RGC and RPE lineages. CONCLUSIONS We identified novel, potentially important intrinsic regulators of RGC and RPE cell lineage specification in the process of differentiation from hiPSCs. We demonstrated the crucial role played by EBF1 in differentiation of RGCs. We identified intrinsic regulator biomarker signatures of these two retinal cell types that can be applied with high confidence to confirm the cell lineage identities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Hua Chuang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Aliaksandr A Yarmishyn
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - De-Kuang Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chien Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mong-Lien Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Hung Chien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital & National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsien Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital and Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Jen Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital & National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan. .,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu W, Zeng Y, Li Z, Li Q, Xu H, Yin ZQ. Features specific to retinal pigment epithelium cells derived from three-dimensional human embryonic stem cell cultures - a new donor for cell therapy. Oncotarget 2017; 7:22819-33. [PMID: 27009841 PMCID: PMC5008403 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation is a particularly promising treatment of retinal degenerative diseases affecting RPE-photoreceptor complex. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an abundant donor source for RPE transplantation. Herein, we studied the time-course characteristics of RPE cells derived from three-dimensional human ESCs cultures (3D-RPE). We showed that 3D-RPE cells possessed morphology, ultrastructure, gene expression profile, and functions of authentic RPE. As differentiation proceeded, 3D-RPE cells could mature gradually with decreasing proliferation but increasing functions. Besides, 3D-RPE cells could form polarized monolayer with functional tight junction and gap junction. When grafted into the subretinal space of Royal College of Surgeons rats, 3D-RPE cells were safe and efficient to rescue retinal degeneration. This study showed that 3D-RPE cells were a new donor for cell therapy of retinal degenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuxiao Zeng
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhengya Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiyou Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zheng Qin Yin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lidgerwood GE, Lim SY, Crombie DE, Ali R, Gill KP, Hernández D, Kie J, Conquest A, Waugh HS, Wong RCB, Liang HH, Hewitt AW, Davidson KC, Pébay A. Defined Medium Conditions for the Induction and Expansion of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2017; 12:179-88. [PMID: 26589197 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-015-9636-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate that a combination of Noggin, Dickkopf-1, Insulin Growth Factor 1 and basic Fibroblast Growth Factor, promotes the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. We describe an efficient one-step approach that allows the generation of RPE cells from both human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells within 40-60 days without the need for manual excision, floating aggregates or imbedded cysts. Compared to methods that rely on spontaneous differentiation, our protocol results in faster differentiation into RPE cells. This pro-retinal culture medium promotes the growth of functional RPE cells that exhibit key characteristics of the RPE including pigmentation, polygonal morphology, expression of mature RPE markers, electrophysiological membrane potential and the ability to phagocytose photoreceptor outer segments. This protocol can be adapted for feeder, feeder-free and serum-free conditions. This method thereby provides a rapid and simplified production of RPE cells for downstream applications such as disease modelling and drug screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Lidgerwood
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Shiang Y Lim
- O'Brien Institute Department, St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Duncan E Crombie
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Ray Ali
- School of Medicine, Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, TAS, Australia
| | - Katherine P Gill
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Damián Hernández
- O'Brien Institute Department, St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Josh Kie
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alison Conquest
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Hayley S Waugh
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Raymond C B Wong
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Helena H Liang
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
- School of Medicine, Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, TAS, Australia
| | - Kathryn C Davidson
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Alice Pébay
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; Ophthalmology, University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery, 32 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Weed LS, Mills JA. Strategies for retinal cell generation from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Investig 2017; 4:65. [PMID: 28815176 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2017.07.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are specialized self-renewing cells that are generated by exogenously expressing pluripotency-associated transcription factors in somatic cells such as fibroblasts, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, or lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). iPSCs are functionally similar to naturally pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in their capacity to propagate indefinitely and potential to differentiate into all human cell types, and are devoid of the associated ethical complications of origin. iPSCs are useful for studying embryonic development, disease modeling, and drug screening. Additionally, iPSCs provide a personalized approach for pathological studies, particularly for diseases that lack appropriate animal models. Retinal cell differentiations using iPSCs have been successful in this regard. Several protocols to generate various retinal cells have been developed to maximize a specific cell type or, most recently, to mimic in vivo retinal structure and cellular environment. As differentiation protocols continue to improve we are likely to see an increase in our basic understanding of various retinal degenerative diseases and the utilization of iPSCs in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey S Weed
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F.M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jason A Mills
- Center for Advanced Retinal and Ocular Therapeutics, F.M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tang Z, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhang D, Shen B, Luo M, Gu P. Progress of stem/progenitor cell-based therapy for retinal degeneration. J Transl Med 2017; 15:99. [PMID: 28486987 PMCID: PMC5424366 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1183-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration (RD), such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa, is one of the leading causes of blindness. Presently, no satisfactory therapeutic options are available for these diseases principally because the retina and retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) do not regenerate, although wet AMD can be prevented from further progression by anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. Nevertheless, stem/progenitor cell approaches exhibit enormous potential for RD treatment using strategies mainly aimed at the rescue and replacement of photoreceptors and RPE. The sources of stem/progenitor cells are classified into two broad categories in this review, which are (1) ocular-derived progenitor cells, such as retinal progenitor cells, and (2) non-ocular-derived stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and mesenchymal stromal cells. Here, we discuss in detail the progress in the study of four predominant stem/progenitor cell types used in animal models of RD. A short overview of clinical trials involving the stem/progenitor cells is also presented. Currently, stem/progenitor cell therapies for RD still have some drawbacks such as inhibited proliferation and/or differentiation in vitro (with the exception of the RPE) and limited long-term survival and function of grafts in vivo. Despite these challenges, stem/progenitor cells represent the most promising strategy for RD treatment in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingqiao Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhao C, Wang Q, Temple S. Stem cell therapies for retinal diseases: recapitulating development to replace degenerated cells. Development 2017; 144:1368-1381. [PMID: 28400433 PMCID: PMC5399657 DOI: 10.1242/dev.133108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Replacing lost retinal cells via stem cell-based therapies is an exciting, rapidly advancing area of translational research that has already entered the clinic. Here, we review the status of these clinical efforts for several significant retinal diseases, describe the challenges involved and discuss how basic developmental studies have contributed to and are needed to advance clinical goals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuiping Zhao
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, 1 Discovery Drive, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Qingjie Wang
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, 1 Discovery Drive, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, 1 Discovery Drive, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Reichman S, Slembrouck A, Gagliardi G, Chaffiol A, Terray A, Nanteau C, Potey A, Belle M, Rabesandratana O, Duebel J, Orieux G, Nandrot EF, Sahel JA, Goureau O. Generation of Storable Retinal Organoids and Retinal Pigmented Epithelium from Adherent Human iPS Cells in Xeno-Free and Feeder-Free Conditions. Stem Cells 2017; 35:1176-1188. [PMID: 28220575 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are potentially useful in regenerative therapies for retinal disease. For medical applications, therapeutic retinal cells, such as retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells or photoreceptor precursors, must be generated under completely defined conditions. To this purpose, we have developed a two-step xeno-free/feeder-free (XF/FF) culture system to efficiently differentiate hiPSCs into retinal cells. This simple method, relies only on adherent hiPSCs cultured in chemically defined media, bypassing embryoid body formation. In less than 1 month, adherent hiPSCs are able to generate self-forming neuroretinal-like structures containing retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). Floating cultures of isolated structures enabled the differentiation of RPCs into all types of retinal cells in a sequential overlapping order, with the generation of transplantation-compatible CD73+ photoreceptor precursors in less than 100 days. Our XF/FF culture conditions allow the maintenance of both mature cones and rods in retinal organoids until 280 days with specific photoreceptor ultrastructures. Moreover, both hiPSC-derived retinal organoids and dissociated retinal cells can be easily cryopreserved while retaining their phenotypic characteristics and the preservation of CD73+ photoreceptor precursors. Concomitantly to neural retina, this process allows the generation of RPE cells that can be effortlessly amplified, passaged, and frozen while retaining a proper RPE phenotype. These results demonstrate that simple and efficient retinal differentiation of adherent hiPSCs can be accomplished in XF/FF conditions. This new method is amenable to the development of an in vitro GMP-compliant retinal cell manufacturing protocol allowing large-scale production and banking of hiPSC-derived retinal cells and tissues. Stem Cells 2017;35:1176-1188.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sacha Reichman
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Amélie Slembrouck
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Giuliana Gagliardi
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Chaffiol
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Angélique Terray
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Céline Nanteau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Anais Potey
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Morgane Belle
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Oriane Rabesandratana
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Jens Duebel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Gael Orieux
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Emeline F Nandrot
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DHOS CIC 1423, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Arora N, Imran Alsous J, Guggenheim JW, Mak M, Munera J, Wells JM, Kamm RD, Asada HH, Shvartsman SY, Griffith LG. A process engineering approach to increase organoid yield. Development 2017; 144:1128-1136. [PMID: 28174251 DOI: 10.1242/dev.142919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Temporal manipulation of the in vitro environment and growth factors can direct differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into organoids - aggregates with multiple tissue-specific cell types and three-dimensional structure mimicking native organs. A mechanistic understanding of early organoid formation is essential for improving the robustness of these methods, which is necessary prior to use in drug development and regenerative medicine. We investigated intestinal organoid emergence, focusing on measurable parameters of hindgut spheroids, the intermediate step between definitive endoderm and mature organoids. We found that 13% of spheroids were pre-organoids that matured into intestinal organoids. Spheroids varied by several structural parameters: cell number, diameter and morphology. Hypothesizing that diameter and the morphological feature of an inner mass were key parameters for spheroid maturation, we sorted spheroids using an automated micropipette aspiration and release system and monitored the cultures for organoid formation. We discovered that populations of spheroids with a diameter greater than 75 μm and an inner mass are enriched 1.5- and 3.8-fold for pre-organoids, respectively, thus providing rational guidelines towards establishing a robust protocol for high quality intestinal organoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Arora
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jasmin Imran Alsous
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Jacob W Guggenheim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michael Mak
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jorge Munera
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - James M Wells
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - H Harry Asada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Stanislav Y Shvartsman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Linda G Griffith
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA .,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sachdeva MM, Eliott D. Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Diseases of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium: From Bench to Bedside. Semin Ophthalmol 2016; 31:25-9. [PMID: 26959126 DOI: 10.3109/08820538.2015.1115253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) represents a leading cause of blindness in the elderly, and Stargardt's macular dystrophy (SMD) is the most common form of juvenile-onset macular degeneration. Dry AMD and SMD share an underlying pathophysiology, namely dysfunction and ultimately loss of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), suggesting that RPE transplantation may offer a potential treatment strategy for both patient populations. Stem cells have emerged as a promising source of replacement RPE. During the past 15 years, extraordinary strides have been made in the identification, characterization, and differentiation of stem cells. Recently, this large body of basic science and preclinical research has been translated to patient care with the publication of results from Phase 1/2 trials demonstrating safety of transplantation of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE into patients with AMD and SMD. While significant challenges remain before dry AMD and SMD become treatable diseases, the goal has become more tangible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mira M Sachdeva
- a Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Dean Eliott
- a Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Small-molecule-directed, efficient generation of retinal pigment epithelium from human pluripotent stem cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:10950-5. [PMID: 26269569 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1422818112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is associated with dysfunction and death of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Cell-based approaches using RPE-like cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are being developed for AMD treatment. However, most efficient RPE differentiation protocols rely on complex, stepwise treatments and addition of growth factors, whereas small-molecule-only approaches developed to date display reduced yields. To identify new compounds that promote RPE differentiation, we developed and performed a high-throughput quantitative PCR screen complemented by a novel orthogonal human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-based RPE reporter assay. Chetomin, an inhibitor of hypoxia-inducible factors, was found to strongly increase RPE differentiation; combination with nicotinamide resulted in conversion of over one-half of the differentiating cells into RPE. Single passage of the whole culture yielded a highly pure hPSC-RPE cell population that displayed many of the morphological, molecular, and functional characteristics of native RPE.
Collapse
|
32
|
Choudhary P, Dodsworth BT, Sidders B, Gutteridge A, Michaelides C, Duckworth JK, Whiting PJ, Benn CL. A FOXM1 Dependent Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transition in Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130379. [PMID: 26121260 PMCID: PMC4488273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the epithelium is maintained by a complex but regulated interplay of processes that allow conversion of a proliferative state into a stably differentiated state. In this study, using human embryonic stem cell (hESC) derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) cells as a model; we have investigated the molecular mechanisms that affect attainment of the epithelial phenotype. We demonstrate that RPE undergo a Mesenchymal–Epithelial Transition in culture before acquiring an epithelial phenotype in a FOXM1 dependent manner. We show that FOXM1 directly regulates proliferation of RPE through transcriptional control of cell cycle associated genes. Additionally, FOXM1 modulates expression of the signaling ligands BMP7 and Wnt5B which act reciprocally to enable epithelialization. This data uncovers a novel effect of FOXM1 dependent activities in contributing towards epithelial fate acquisition and furthers our understanding of the molecular regulators of a cell type that is currently being evaluated as a cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parul Choudhary
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (PC); (CLB)
| | | | - Ben Sidders
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Gutteridge
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christos Michaelides
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua Kane Duckworth
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul John Whiting
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Louise Benn
- Neusentis, Pfizer Ltd, The Portway, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (PC); (CLB)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yvon C, Ramsden CM, Lane A, Powner MB, da Cruz L, Coffey PJ, Carr AJF. Using Stem Cells to Model Diseases of the Outer Retina. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2015; 13:382-9. [PMID: 26106463 PMCID: PMC4477013 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration arises from the loss of photoreceptors or retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide with limited effective treatment options. Generation of induced pluripotent stem cell (IPSC)-derived retinal cells and tissues from individuals with retinal degeneration is a rapidly evolving technology that holds a great potential for its use in disease modelling. IPSCs provide an ideal platform to investigate normal and pathological retinogenesis, but also deliver a valuable source of retinal cell types for drug screening and cell therapy. In this review, we will provide some examples of the ways in which IPSCs have been used to model diseases of the outer retina including retinitis pigmentosa (RP), Usher syndrome (USH), Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), gyrate atrophy (GA), juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD) and age related macular degeneration (AMD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Yvon
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Conor M. Ramsden
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Amelia Lane
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Michael B. Powner
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Lyndon da Cruz
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Peter J. Coffey
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, NRI, UC, Santa Barbara, USA
| | - Amanda-Jayne F. Carr
- The London Project to Cure Blindness, Division of ORBIT, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Leach LL, Clegg DO. Concise Review: Making Stem Cells Retinal: Methods for Deriving Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Implications for Patients With Ocular Disease. Stem Cells 2015; 33:2363-73. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay L. Leach
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Molecular; Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California; Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Dennis O. Clegg
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Molecular; Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California; Santa Barbara California USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Generation of eye field/optic vesicle-like structures from human embryonic stem cells under two-dimensional and chemically defined conditions. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 51:310-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11626-014-9835-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
36
|
Lane A, Philip LR, Ruban L, Fynes K, Smart M, Carr A, Mason C, Coffey P. Engineering efficient retinal pigment epithelium differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cells Transl Med 2014; 3:1295-304. [PMID: 25273541 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2014-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a promising source of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells: cells that can be used for the treatment of common and incurable forms of blindness, such as age-related macular degeneration. Although most hESC lines will produce a number of clusters of pigmented RPE cells within 30-50 days when allowed to spontaneously differentiate, the timing and efficiency of differentiation is highly variable. This could prove problematic in the design of robust processes for the large scale production of RPE cells for cell therapy. In this study we sought to identify, quantify, and reduce the sources of variability in hESC-RPE differentiation. By monitoring the emergence of pigmented cells over time, we show how the cell line, passaging method, passage number, and seeding density have a significant and reproducible effect on the RPE yield. To counter this variability, we describe the production of RPE cells from two cell lines in feeder-free, density controlled conditions using single cell dissociation and seeding that is more amenable to scaled up production. The efficacy of small molecules in directing differentiation toward the RPE lineage was tested in two hESC lines with divergent RPE differentiation capacities. Neural induction by treatment with a bone morphogenetic protein inhibitor, dorsomorphin, significantly enhanced the RPE yield in one cell line but significantly reduce it in another, generating instead a Chx10 positive neural progenitor phenotype. This result underlines the necessity to tailor differentiation protocols to suit the innate properties of different cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Lane
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lissa Rachel Philip
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ludmila Ruban
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Fynes
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Smart
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda Carr
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Mason
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pete Coffey
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Croze RH, Buchholz DE, Radeke MJ, Thi WJ, Hu Q, Coffey PJ, Clegg DO. ROCK Inhibition Extends Passage of Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigmented Epithelium. Stem Cells Transl Med 2014; 3:1066-78. [PMID: 25069775 PMCID: PMC4149306 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2014-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) offer a potentially unlimited supply of cells for emerging cell-based therapies. Unfortunately, the process of deriving distinct cell types can be time consuming and expensive. In the developed world, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly, with more than 7.2 million people afflicted in the U.S. alone. Both hESC-derived retinal pigmented epithelium (hESC-RPE) and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (iPSC-RPE) are being developed for AMD therapies by multiple groups, but their potential for expansion in culture is limited. To attempt to overcome this passage limitation, we examined the involvement of Rho-associated, coiled-coil protein kinase (ROCK) in hESC-RPE and iPSC-RPE culture. We report that inhibiting ROCK1/2 with Y-27632 allows extended passage of hESC-RPE and iPSC-RPE. Microarray analysis suggests that ROCK inhibition could be suppressing an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through various pathways. These include inhibition of key ligands of the transforming growth factor-β pathway (TGFB1 and GDF6) and Wnt signaling. Two important processes are affected, allowing for an increase in hESC-RPE expansion. First, ROCK inhibition promotes proliferation by inducing multiple components that are involved in cell cycle progression. Second, ROCK inhibition affects many pathways that could be converging to suppress RPE-to-mesenchymal transition. This allows hESC-RPE to remain functional for an extended but finite period in culture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne H Croze
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - David E Buchholz
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Monte J Radeke
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - William J Thi
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Qirui Hu
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Peter J Coffey
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Dennis O Clegg
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Center for the Study of Macular Degeneration, Neuroscience Research Institute, and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bertolotti E, Neri A, Camparini M, Macaluso C, Marigo V. Stem cells as source for retinal pigment epithelium transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2014; 42:130-44. [PMID: 24933042 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2014.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Inherited maculopathies, age related macular degeneration and some forms of retinitis pigmentosa are associated with impaired function or loss of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Among potential treatments, transplantation approaches are particularly promising. The arrangement of RPE cells in a well-defined tissue layer makes the RPE amenable to cell or tissue sheet transplantation. Different cell sources have been suggested for RPE transplantation but the development of a clinical protocol faces several obstacles. The source should provide a sufficient number of cells to at least recover the macula area. Secondly, cells should be plastic enough to be able to integrate in the host tissue. Tissue sheets should be considered as well, but the substrate on which RPE cells are cultured needs to be carefully evaluated. Immunogenicity can also be an obstacle for effective transplantation as well as tumorigenicity of not fully differentiated cells. Finally, ethical concerns may represent drawbacks when embryo-derived cells are proposed for RPE transplantation. Here we discuss different cell sources that became available in recent years and their different properties. We also present data on a new source of human RPE. We provide a protocol for RPE differentiation of retinal stem cells derived from adult ciliary bodies of post-mortem donors. We show molecular characterization of the in vitro differentiated RPE tissue and demonstrate its functionality based on a phagocytosis assay. This new source may provide tissue for allogenic transplantation based on best matches through histocompatibility testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelina Bertolotti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto Neri
- Ophthalmology, S.Bi.Bi.T. Department, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Monica Camparini
- Ophthalmology, S.Bi.Bi.T. Department, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Claudio Macaluso
- Ophthalmology, S.Bi.Bi.T. Department, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Valeria Marigo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
From confluent human iPS cells to self-forming neural retina and retinal pigmented epithelium. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:8518-23. [PMID: 24912154 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1324212111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in retinal-cell therapy derived from human pluripotent stem cells currently faces technical challenges that require the development of easy and standardized protocols. Here, we developed a simple retinal differentiation method, based on confluent human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC), bypassing embryoid body formation and the use of exogenous molecules, coating, or Matrigel. In 2 wk, we generated both retinal pigmented epithelial cells and self-forming neural retina (NR)-like structures containing retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). We report sequential differentiation from RPCs to the seven neuroretinal cell types in maturated NR-like structures as floating cultures, thereby revealing the multipotency of RPCs generated from integration-free hiPSCs. Furthermore, Notch pathway inhibition boosted the generation of photoreceptor precursor cells, crucial in establishing cell therapy strategies. This innovative process proposed here provides a readily efficient and scalable approach to produce retinal cells for regenerative medicine and for drug-screening purposes, as well as an in vitro model of human retinal development and disease.
Collapse
|
40
|
Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigmented Epithelium in Retinal Treatment: from Bench to Bedside. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 50:597-612. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8684-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
41
|
Al-Shamekh S, Goldberg JL. Retinal repair with induced pluripotent stem cells. Transl Res 2014; 163:377-86. [PMID: 24291154 PMCID: PMC4073787 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration such as age-related macular degeneration and other inherited forms, such as Stargardt's disease and retinitis pigmentosa, and optic neuropathies including glaucoma and ischemic optic neuropathy are major causes of vision loss and blindness worldwide. Damage to retinal pigment epithelial cells and photoreceptors in the former, and to retinal ganglion cell axons in the optic nerve and their cell bodies in the retina in the latter diseases lead to the eventual death of these retinal cells, and in humans there is no endogenous replacement or repair. Cell replacement therapies provide 1 avenue to restore function in these diseases, particularly in the case of retinal repair, although there are considerable issues to overcome, including the differentiation and integration of the transplanted cells. What stem cell sources could be used for such therapies? One promising source is induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which could be drawn from an individual patient needing therapy, or generated and banked from select donors. We review developing research in the use of iPSCs for retinal cell replacement therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shomoukh Al-Shamekh
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Fla; Department of Ophthalmology, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Shiley Eye Center, University of California, San Diego, Calif; Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Fla.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Botman O, Wyns C. Induced pluripotent stem cell potential in medicine, specifically focused on reproductive medicine. Front Surg 2014; 1:5. [PMID: 25671222 PMCID: PMC4313692 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2014.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 2006, several laboratories have proved that somatic cells can be reprogramed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). iPSCs have enormous potential in stem cell biology as they can give rise to numerous cell lineages, including the three germ layers. In this review, we discuss past and recent advances in human iPSCs used for modeling diseases in vitro, screening drugs to test new treatments, and autologous cell and tissue regenerative therapies, with a special focus on reproductive medicine applications. While this latter field of research is still in its infancy, it holds great promise for investigating germ cell development and studying the genetic and physiopathological mechanisms of infertility. A major cause of infertility is the absence of germ cells in the testes, mainly due to genetic background or as a consequence of gonadotoxic treatments. For these patients, no effective fertility restoration strategy has so far been identified. The derivation of germ cells from iPSCs represents an alternative source of stem cells able to differentiate into spermatozoa. Lessons learned from animal models as well as studies on human iPSCs for reproductive purposes are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Botman
- Gynecology Unit, Medical School, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain , Brussels , Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology Unit, Medical School, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain , Brussels , Belgium ; Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain , Brussels , Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang K, Liu GH, Yi F, Montserrat N, Hishida T, Esteban CR, Izpisua Belmonte JC. Direct conversion of human fibroblasts into retinal pigment epithelium-like cells by defined factors. Protein Cell 2014; 5:48-58. [PMID: 24474194 PMCID: PMC3938849 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-013-0011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The generation of functional retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is of great therapeutic interest to the field of regenerative medicine and may provide possible cures for retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although RPE cells can be produced from either embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells, direct cell reprogramming driven by lineage-determining transcription factors provides an immediate route to their generation. By monitoring a human RPE specific Best1::GFP reporter, we report the conversion of human fibroblasts into RPE lineage using defined sets of transcription factors. We found that Best1::GFP positive cells formed colonies and exhibited morphological and molecular features of early stage RPE cells. Moreover, they were able to obtain pigmentation upon activation of Retinoic acid (RA) and Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathways. Our study not only established an ideal platform to investigate the transcriptional network regulating the RPE cell fate determination, but also provided an alternative strategy to generate functional RPE cells that complement the use of pluripotent stem cells for disease modeling, drug screening, and cell therapy of retinal degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kejing Zhang
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sorkio A, Hongisto H, Kaarniranta K, Uusitalo H, Juuti-Uusitalo K, Skottman H. Structure and barrier properties of human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells are affected by extracellular matrix protein coating. Tissue Eng Part A 2014; 20:622-34. [PMID: 24044751 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2013.0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions play a vital role in cell morphology, migration, proliferation, and differentiation of cells. We investigated the role of ECM proteins on the structure and function of human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (hESC-RPE) cells during their differentiation and maturation from hESCs into RPE cells in adherent differentiation cultures on several human ECM proteins found in native human Bruch's membrane, namely, collagen I, collagen IV, laminin, fibronectin, and vitronectin, as well as on commercial substrates of xeno-free CELLstart™ and Matrigel™. Cell pigmentation, expression of RPE-specific proteins, fine structure, as well as the production of basal lamina by hESC-RPE on different protein coatings were evaluated after 140 days of differentiation. The integrity of hESC-RPE epithelium and barrier properties on different coatings were investigated by measuring transepithelial resistance. All coatings supported the differentiation of hESC-RPE cells as demonstrated by early onset of cell pigmentation and further maturation to RPE monolayers after enrichment. Mature RPE phenotype was verified by RPE-specific gene and protein expression, correct epithelial polarization, and phagocytic activity. Significant differences were found in the degree of RPE cell pigmentation and tightness of epithelial barrier between different coatings. Further, the thickness of self-assembled basal lamina and secretion of the key ECM proteins found in the basement membrane of the native RPE varied between hESC-RPE cultured on compared protein coatings. In conclusion, this study shows that the cell culture substrate has a major effect on the structure and basal lamina production during the differentiation and maturation of hESC-RPE potentially influencing the success of cell integrations and survival after cell transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anni Sorkio
- 1 Institute of Biomedical Technology, University of Tampere , Tampere, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Guo Y, Hai Y, Gong Y, Li Z, He Z. Characterization, Isolation, and Culture of Mouse and Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells. J Cell Physiol 2013; 229:407-13. [PMID: 24114612 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Guo
- Renji Hospital; Clinic Stem Cell Research Center; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; Shanghai China
| | - Yanan Hai
- Renji Hospital; Clinic Stem Cell Research Center; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; Shanghai China
| | - Yuehua Gong
- Renji Hospital; Clinic Stem Cell Research Center; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; Shanghai China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology; Shanghai Human Sperm Bank; Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; Shanghai China
| | - Zuping He
- Renji Hospital; Clinic Stem Cell Research Center; Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; Shanghai China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine; Shanghai China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics; Shanghai China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Steele-Stallard HB, Le Quesne Stabej P, Lenassi E, Luxon LM, Claustres M, Roux AF, Webster AR, Bitner-Glindzicz M. Screening for duplications, deletions and a common intronic mutation detects 35% of second mutations in patients with USH2A monoallelic mutations on Sanger sequencing. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2013; 8:122. [PMID: 23924366 PMCID: PMC3751126 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-8-122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Usher Syndrome is the leading cause of inherited deaf-blindness. It is divided into three subtypes, of which the most common is Usher type 2, and the USH2A gene accounts for 75-80% of cases. Despite recent sequencing strategies, in our cohort a significant proportion of individuals with Usher type 2 have just one heterozygous disease-causing mutation in USH2A, or no convincing disease-causing mutations across nine Usher genes. The purpose of this study was to improve the molecular diagnosis in these families by screening USH2A for duplications, heterozygous deletions and a common pathogenic deep intronic variant USH2A: c.7595-2144A>G. METHODS Forty-nine Usher type 2 or atypical Usher families who had missing mutations (mono-allelic USH2A or no mutations following Sanger sequencing of nine Usher genes) were screened for duplications/deletions using the USH2A SALSA MLPA reagent kit (MRC-Holland). Identification of USH2A: c.7595-2144A>G was achieved by Sanger sequencing. Mutations were confirmed by a combination of reverse transcription PCR using RNA extracted from nasal epithelial cells or fibroblasts, and by array comparative genomic hybridisation with sequencing across the genomic breakpoints. RESULTS Eight mutations were identified in 23 Usher type 2 families (35%) with one previously identified heterozygous disease-causing mutation in USH2A. These consisted of five heterozygous deletions, one duplication, and two heterozygous instances of the pathogenic variant USH2A: c.7595-2144A>G. No variants were found in the 15 Usher type 2 families with no previously identified disease-causing mutations. In 11 atypical families, none of whom had any previously identified convincing disease-causing mutations, the mutation USH2A: c.7595-2144A>G was identified in a heterozygous state in one family. All five deletions and the heterozygous duplication we report here are novel. This is the first time that a duplication in USH2A has been reported as a cause of Usher syndrome. CONCLUSIONS We found that 8 of 23 (35%) of 'missing' mutations in Usher type 2 probands with only a single heterozygous USH2A mutation detected with Sanger sequencing could be attributed to deletions, duplications or a pathogenic deep intronic variant. Future mutation detection strategies and genetic counselling will need to take into account the prevalence of these types of mutations in order to provide a more comprehensive diagnostic service.
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhang K, Liu GH, Yi F, Montserrat N, Hishida T, Rodriguez Esteban C, Izpisua Belmonte JC. Direct conversion of human fibroblasts into retinal pigment epithelium-like cells by defined factors. Protein Cell 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s13238-013-3044-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
|
48
|
Lustremant C, Habeler W, Plancheron A, Goureau O, Grenot L, de la Grange P, Audo I, Nandrot EF, Monville C. Human induced pluripotent stem cells as a tool to model a form of Leber congenital amaurosis. Cell Reprogram 2013; 15:233-46. [PMID: 23663011 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2012.0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Our purpose was to investigate genes and molecular mechanisms involved in patients with Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and to model this type of LCA for drug screening. Fibroblasts from two unrelated clinically identified patients with a yet undetermined gene mutation were reprogrammed to pluripotency by retroviral transduction. These human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) were differentiated into neural stem cells (NSCs) that mimicked the neural tube stage and retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells that could be targeted by the disease. A genome-wide transcriptome analysis was performed with Affymetrix Exon Array GeneChip(®), comparing LCA-hiPSCs derivatives to controls. A genomic search for alteration in all genes known to be involved in LCA revealed a common polymorphism on the GUCY2D gene, referenced as the LCA type I (OMIM *600179 and #204000), but the causative gene remained unknown. The hiPSCs expressed the key pluripotency factors and formed embryoid bodies in vitro containing cells originating from all three germ layers. They were successfully differentiated into NSC and RPE cells. One gene, NNAT, was upregulated in LCA cell populations, and three genes were downregulated, GSTT1, TRIM61 and ZNF558, with potential correlates for molecular mechanisms of this type of LCA, in particular for protein degradation and oxidative stress. The two LCA patient-specific iPSC lines will contribute to modeling LCA phenotypes and screening candidate drugs.
Collapse
|
49
|
Buchholz DE, Pennington BO, Croze RH, Hinman CR, Coffey PJ, Clegg DO. Rapid and efficient directed differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into retinal pigmented epithelium. Stem Cells Transl Med 2013; 2:384-93. [PMID: 23599499 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2012-0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlling the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells is the goal of many laboratories, both to study normal human development and to generate cells for transplantation. One important cell type under investigation is the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE). Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in the Western world, is caused by dysfunction and death of the RPE. Currently, RPE derived from human embryonic stem cells are in clinical trials for the treatment of AMD. Although protocols to generate RPE from human pluripotent stem cells have become more efficient since the first report in 2004, they are still time-consuming and relatively inefficient. We have found that the addition of defined factors at specific times leads to conversion of approximately 80% of the cells to an RPE phenotype in only 14 days. This protocol should be useful for rapidly generating RPE for transplantation as well as for studying RPE development in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David E Buchholz
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Maruotti J, Wahlin K, Gorrell D, Bhutto I, Lutty G, Zack DJ. A simple and scalable process for the differentiation of retinal pigment epithelium from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cells Transl Med 2013; 2:341-54. [PMID: 23585288 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2012-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of irreversible vision loss and blindness among the elderly in industrialized countries, is associated with the dysfunction and death of the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. As a result, there has been significant interest in developing RPE culture systems both to study AMD disease mechanisms and to provide substrate for possible cell-based therapies. Because of their indefinite self-renewal, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have the potential to provide an unlimited supply of RPE-like cells. However, most protocols developed to date for deriving RPE cells from hPSCs involve time- and labor-consuming manual steps, which hinder their use in biomedical applications requiring large amounts of differentiated cells. Here, we describe a simple and scalable protocol for the generation of RPE cells from hPSCs that is less labor-intensive. After amplification by clonal propagation using a myosin inhibitor, differentiation was induced in monolayers of hPSCs, and the resulting RPE cells were purified by two rounds of whole-dish single-cell passage. This approach yields highly pure populations of functional hPSC-derived RPE cells that display many characteristics of native RPE cells, including proper pigmentation and morphology, cell type-specific marker expression, polarized membrane and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion, and phagocytic activity. This work represents a step toward mass production of RPE cells from hPSCs.
Collapse
|