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Clancy CE, Santana LF. Advances in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac myocytes: technological breakthroughs, key discoveries and new applications. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39032073 DOI: 10.1113/jp282562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
A transformation is underway in precision and patient-specific medicine. Rapid progress has been enabled by multiple new technologies including induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac myocytes (iPSC-CMs). Here, we delve into these advancements and their future promise, focusing on the efficiency of reprogramming techniques, the fidelity of differentiation into the cardiac lineage, the functional characterization of the resulting cardiac myocytes, and the many applications of in silico models to understand general and patient-specific mechanisms controlling excitation-contraction coupling in health and disease. Furthermore, we explore the current and potential applications of iPSC-CMs in both research and clinical settings, underscoring the far-reaching implications of this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen E Clancy
- Department of Physiology & Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Center for Precision Medicine and Data Sciences, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - L Fernando Santana
- Department of Physiology & Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Center for Precision Medicine and Data Sciences, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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2
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Seah I, Goh D, Banerjee A, Su X. Modeling inherited retinal diseases using human induced pluripotent stem cell derived photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1328474. [PMID: 39011458 PMCID: PMC11246861 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1328474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, there have been many attempts to create cellular models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) for investigation of pathogenic processes to facilitate target discovery and validation activities. Consistency remains key in determining the utility of these findings. Despite the importance of consistency, quality control metrics are still not widely used. In this review, a toolkit for harnessing iPSC technology to generate photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelial cell, and organoid disease models is provided. Considerations while developing iPSC-derived IRD models such as iPSC origin, reprogramming methods, quality control metrics, control strategies, and differentiation protocols are discussed. Various iPSC IRD models are dissected and the scientific hurdles of iPSC-based disease modeling are discussed to provide an overview of current methods and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Seah
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Debbie Goh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Animesh Banerjee
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinyi Su
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore, Singapore
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3
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Han J, Chear S, Talbot J, Swier V, Booth C, Reuben-Thomas C, Dalvi S, Weimer JM, Hewitt AW, Cook AL, Singh R. Genetic and cellular basis of impaired phagocytosis and photoreceptor degeneration in CLN3 disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.09.597388. [PMID: 38895469 PMCID: PMC11185776 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.09.597388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Purpose CLN3 Batten disease (also known as Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis; JNCL) is a lysosomal storage disorder that typically initiates with retinal degeneration but is followed by seizure onset, motor decline and premature death. Patient-derived CLN3 disease iPSC-RPE cells show defective phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments (POSs). Because modifier genes are implicated in CLN3 disease, our goal here was to investigate a direct link between CLN3 mutation and POS phagocytosis defect. Methods Isogenic control and CLN3 mutant stem cell lines were generated by CRISPR-Cas9-mediated biallelic deletion of exons 7 and 8. A transgenic CLN3 Δ 7-8/ Δ 7-8 ( CLN3 ) Yucatan miniswine was also used to study the impact of CLN3 Δ 7-8/ Δ 7-8 mutation on POS phagocytosis. POS phagocytosis by cultured RPE cells was analyzed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Electroretinogram, optical coherence tomography and histological analysis of CLN3 Δ 7/8 and wild-type miniswine eyes were carried out at 6-, 36-, or 48-month age. Results CLN3 Δ 7-8/ Δ 7-8 RPE ( CLN3 RPE) displayed reduced POS binding and consequently decreased uptake of POS compared to isogenic control RPE cells. Furthermore, wild-type miniswine RPE cells phagocytosed CLN3 Δ 7-8/ Δ 7-8 POS less efficiently than wild-type POS. Consistent with decreased POS phagocytosis, lipofuscin/autofluorescence was decreased in CLN3 miniswine RPE at 36 months-of-age and was followed by almost complete loss of photoreceptors at 48 months of age. Conclusions CLN3 Δ 7-8/ Δ 7-8 mutation (that affects up to 85% patients) affects both RPE and POSs and leads to photoreceptor cell loss in CLN3 disease. Furthermore, both primary RPE dysfunction and mutant POS independently contribute to impaired POS phagocytosis in CLN3 disease.
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4
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Lee IK, Xie R, Luz-Madrigal A, Min S, Zhu J, Jin J, Edwards KL, Phillips MJ, Ludwig AL, Gamm DM, Gong S, Ma Z. Micromolded honeycomb scaffold design to support the generation of a bilayered RPE and photoreceptor cell construct. Bioact Mater 2023; 30:142-153. [PMID: 37575875 PMCID: PMC10415596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes blindness due to loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors (PRs), which comprise the two outermost layers of the retina. Given the small size of the macula and the importance of direct contact between RPE and PRs, the use of scaffolds for targeted reconstruction of the outer retina in later stage AMD and other macular dystrophies is particularly attractive. We developed microfabricated, honeycomb-patterned, biodegradable poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) scaffolds to deliver organized, adjacent layers of RPE and PRs to the subretinal space. Furthermore, an optimized process was developed to photocure PGS, shortening scaffold production time from days to minutes. The resulting scaffolds robustly supported the seeding of human pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE and PRs, either separately or as a dual cell-layered construct. These advanced, economical, and versatile scaffolds can accelerate retinal cell transplantation efforts and benefit patients with AMD and other retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Kyu Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ruosen Xie
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Agustin Luz-Madrigal
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Seunghwan Min
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jingcheng Zhu
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Jiahe Jin
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | | | - M. Joseph Phillips
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Allison L. Ludwig
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - David M. Gamm
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Shaoqin Gong
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Zhenqiang Ma
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Department of Engineering Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Grainger Institute for Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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5
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Bianco L, Arrigo A, Marchese A, Antropoli A, Aragona E, La Franca L, Mauro L, Pina A, Hassan Farah R, Basile G, Bandello F, Battaglia Parodi M. Fixation Location and Stability in Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2023; 3:100329. [PMID: 37304042 PMCID: PMC10251068 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To analyze fixation location and stability in best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD) and test their association with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Design Observational, cross-sectional study. Participants Thirty patients (55 eyes) affected by genetically confirmed BVMD were followed up at the Retinal Heredodystrophies Unit of IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan. Methods Patients underwent testing with macular integrity assessment (MAIA) microperimeter. Fixation location was measured as distance in degrees (°) between preferred retinal locus (PRL) and estimated fovea location (EFL); fixation was defined as eccentric when the distance between PRL and EFL exceeded 2°. Fixation stability was graded as stable, relatively unstable, or unstable and expressed as bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA, °2). Main Outcome Measures Fixation location and stability. Results The median distance of the PRL from the anatomic fovea was 0.7°, and fixation location was eccentric in 27% of eyes. Fixation was graded as stable in 64% of eyes, relatively unstable in 13%, and unstable in 24%, with a median 95% BCEA of 6.2°2. The atrophic/fibrotic stage was associated with worse fixation parameters (all P < 0.01). Both PRL eccentricity and fixation stability were linearly associated with BCVA: every 1° increase in PRL eccentricity was associated with a 0.07 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) worse BCVA (P < 0.0001) while every 1°2 increase in 95% BCEA was associated with a 0.01 logMAR worse BCVA (P < 0.001). No significant intereye correlation was found for PRL eccentricity and fixation stability, as well as no association between the patient's age and fixation parameters. Conclusions We demonstrated that most eyes affected by BVMD retain a central stable fixation and provided evidence that both fixation eccentricity and stability are strongly associated with visual acuity in BVMD. These parameters may serve as secondary end points for future clinical trials. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Correspondence: Alessandro Arrigo, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, via Olgettina, 60, Milan 20132, Italy.
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6
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Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Pathogenesis Underlying Inherited Retinal Dystrophies. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020271. [PMID: 36830640 PMCID: PMC9953031 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are congenital retinal degenerative diseases that have various inheritance patterns, including dominant, recessive, X-linked, and mitochondrial. These diseases are most often the result of defects in rod and/or cone photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium function, development, or both. The genes associated with these diseases, when mutated, produce altered protein products that have downstream effects in pathways critical to vision, including phototransduction, the visual cycle, photoreceptor development, cellular respiration, and retinal homeostasis. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive review of the underlying molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of IRDs by delving into many of the genes associated with IRD development, their protein products, and the pathways interrupted by genetic mutation.
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7
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Mayerl SJ, Bajgai S, Ludwig AL, Jager LD, Williams BN, Bacig C, Stoddard C, Sinha D, Philpot BD, Gamm DM. Human retinal organoids harboring IMPG2 mutations exhibit a photoreceptor outer segment phenotype that models advanced retinitis pigmentosa. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:2409-2420. [PMID: 36206764 PMCID: PMC9669399 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Interphotoreceptor matrix proteoglycan 2 (IMPG2) mutations cause a severe form of early-onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with macular involvement. IMPG2 is expressed by photoreceptors and incorporated into the matrix that surrounds the inner and outer segments (OS) of rods and cones, but the mechanism of IMPG2-RP remains unclear. Loss of Impg2 function in mice produces a mild, late-onset photoreceptor phenotype without the characteristic OS loss that occurs in human patients. We generated retinal organoids (ROs) from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and gene-edited embryonic stem cells to model human IMPG2-RP in vitro. All ROs harboring IMPG2 mutations lacked an OS layer, in contrast to isogenic controls. Subsequent protein analyses revealed that this phenotype arises due to a loss of IMPG2 expression or its inability to undergo normal post-translational modifications. We hypothesized that loss of IMPG2 function destabilizes the interphotoreceptor matrix and renders the OS vulnerable to physical stressors, which is accentuated in the tissue culture environment. In support of this mechanism, transplantation of IMPG2 mutant ROs into the protected subretinal space of immunocompromised rodents restored OS production. Beyond providing a robust platform to study IMPG2-RP, this human RO model system may serve a broader role in honing strategies to treat advanced photoreceptor-based diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Mayerl
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Simona Bajgai
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Allison L Ludwig
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Lindsey D Jager
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Brittany N Williams
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Cole Bacig
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Christopher Stoddard
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Divya Sinha
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Benjamin D Philpot
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - David M Gamm
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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8
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Transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cells- derived retinal ganglion cells embed within mouse retinas and are electrophysiologically functional. iScience 2022; 25:105308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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9
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Battaglia Parodi M, Bianco L, Arrigo A, Saladino A, Antropoli A, Pina A, Marchese A, Aragona E, Rashid HF, Bandello F. Clinical Correlation Between Optical Coherence Tomography Biomarkers and Retinal Sensitivity in Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:24. [PMID: 36156730 PMCID: PMC9526372 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.9.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the clinical and imaging features associated with retinal sensitivity in Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD). Methods This was a cross-sectional, single-center, observational study. Each patient underwent optical coherence tomography (OCT), near-infrared fundus autofluorescence, and OCT angiography. Macular integrity assessment microperimetry under mesopic conditions was performed to obtain retinal sensitivity thresholds from 68 testing points in the central macula. Structural OCT was used to classify BVMD lesions into four types according to their composition: vitelliform, mixed, subretinal fluid, and atrophy. Multilevel, mixed-effects linear regression was used to determine the factors associated with retinal sensitivity. Results The study included 57 eyes of 30 patients with BVMD, 48 of which (84%) were in a clinical stage. Mean retinal sensitivity varied according to the composition of the lesion: the vitelliform type registering the highest (22 ± 4.1 dB), followed by mixed (18.73 ± 2.7 dB), subretinal fluid (15.68 ± 4.2 dB), and atrophy types (11.85 ± 4.6 dB). The factors most strongly associated with mean retinal sensitivity in BVMD proved to be the OCT lesion type and outer nuclear layer thickness. Conclusions Retinal sensitivity in BVMD is influenced by lesion composition and outer nuclear layer thickness. Further studies with long-term follow-up are warranted to examine retinal sensitivity over time and to validate retinal sensitivity changes as biomarkers for BVMD. Translational Relevance Assessing retinal sensitivity in BVMD provides a new instrument in the clinical characterization of the disease and offers the opportunity to identify imaging biomarkers for use as outcome measures in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lorenzo Bianco
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Saladino
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Antropoli
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Adelaide Pina
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marchese
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Aragona
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Hassan Farah Rashid
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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10
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Hall JC, Paull D, Pébay A, Lidgerwood GE. Human pluripotent stem cells for the modelling of retinal pigment epithelium homeostasis and disease: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 50:667-677. [PMID: 35739648 PMCID: PMC9546239 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), which include induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells, are powerful tools for studying human development, physiology and disease, including those affecting the retina. Cells from selected individuals, or specific genetic backgrounds, can be differentiated into distinct cell types allowing the modelling of diseases in a dish for therapeutic development. hPSC‐derived retinal cultures have already been used to successfully model retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration for various retinal diseases including monogenic conditions and complex disease such as age‐related macular degeneration. Here, we will review the current knowledge gained in understanding the molecular events involved in retinal disease using hPSC‐derived retinal models, in particular RPE models. We will provide examples of various conditions to illustrate the scope of applications associated with the use of hPSC‐derived RPE models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna C Hall
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Daniel Paull
- The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute New York New York USA
| | - Alice Pébay
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Grace E. Lidgerwood
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
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11
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Liu T, Aguilera N, Bower AJ, Li J, Ullah E, Dubra A, Cukras C, Brooks BP, Jeffrey BG, Hufnagel RB, Huryn LA, Zein WM, Tam J. Photoreceptor and Retinal Pigment Epithelium Relationships in Eyes With Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy Revealed by Multimodal Adaptive Optics Imaging. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:27. [PMID: 35900727 PMCID: PMC9344216 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.8.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess the structure of cone photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in vitelliform macular dystrophy (VMD) arising from various genetic etiologies. Methods Multimodal adaptive optics (AO) imaging was performed in 11 patients with VMD using a custom-assembled instrument. Non-confocal split detection and AO-enhanced indocyanine green were used to visualize the cone photoreceptor and RPE mosaics, respectively. Cone and RPE densities were measured and compared across BEST1-, PRPH2-, IMPG1-, and IMPG2-related VMD. Results Within macular lesions associated with VMD, both cone and RPE densities were reduced below normal, to 37% of normal cone density (eccentricity 0.2 mm) and to 8.4% of normal RPE density (eccentricity 0.5 mm). Outside of lesions, cone and RPE densities were slightly reduced (both to 92% of normal values), but with high degree of variability in the individual measurements. Comparison of juxtalesional cone and RPE measurements (<1 mm from the lesion edge) revealed significant differences in RPE density across the four genes (P < 0.05). Overall, cones were affected to a greater extent than RPE in patients with IMPG1 and IMPG2 pathogenic variants, but RPE was affected more than cones in BEST1 and PRPH2 VMD. This trend was observed even in contralateral eyes from a subset of five patients who presented with macular lesions in only one eye. Conclusions Assessment of cones and RPE in retinal locations outside of the macular lesions reveals a pattern of cone and RPE disruption that appears to be gene dependent in VMD. These findings provide insight into the cellular pathogenesis of disease in VMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Liu
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9864-3896
| | - Nancy Aguilera
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0863-596X
| | - Andrew J Bower
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1645-5950
| | - Joanne Li
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2845-2490
| | - Ehsan Ullah
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0107-6608
| | - Alfredo Dubra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6506-9020
| | - Catherine Cukras
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Brian P Brooks
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1916-7551
| | - Brett G Jeffrey
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9549-0644
| | - Robert B Hufnagel
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3015-3545
| | - Laryssa A Huryn
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0309-9419
| | - Wadih M Zein
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3771-6120
| | - Johnny Tam
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States.,https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2300-0567
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12
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Impaired Bestrophin Channel Activity in an iPSC-RPE Model of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) from an Early Onset Patient Carrying the P77S Dominant Mutation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137432. [PMID: 35806438 PMCID: PMC9266689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Best Vitelliform Macular dystrophy (BVMD) is the most prevalent of the distinctive retinal dystrophies caused by mutations in the BEST1 gene. This gene, which encodes for a homopentameric calcium-activated ion channel, is crucial for the homeostasis and function of the retinal pigment epithelia (RPE), the cell type responsible for recycling the visual pigments generated by photoreceptor cells. In BVMD patients, mutations in this gene induce functional problems in the RPE cell layer with an accumulation of lipofucsin that evolves into cell death and loss of sight. In this work, we employ iPSC-RPE cells derived from a patient with the p.Pro77Ser dominant mutation to determine the correlation between this variant and the ocular phenotype. To this purpose, gene and protein expression and localization are evaluated in iPSC-RPE cells along with functional assays like phagocytosis and anion channel activity. Our cell model shows no differences in gene expression, protein expression/localization, or phagocytosis capacity, but presents an increased chloride entrance, indicating that the p.Pro77Ser variant might be a gain-of-function mutation. We hypothesize that this variant disturbs the neck region of the BEST1 channel, affecting channel function but maintaining cell homeostasis in the short term. This data shed new light on the different phenotypes of dominant mutations in BEST1, and emphasize the importance of understanding its molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, the data widen the knowledge of this pathology and open the door for a better diagnosis and prognosis of the disease.
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Ortolan D, Sharma R, Volkov A, Maminishkis A, Hotaling NA, Huryn LA, Cukras C, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Bharti K. Single-cell-resolution map of human retinal pigment epithelium helps discover subpopulations with differential disease sensitivity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2117553119. [PMID: 35522714 PMCID: PMC9171647 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2117553119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Regional phenotypic and functional differences in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) monolayer have been suggested to account for regional susceptibility in ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), late-onset retinal degeneration (L-ORD), and choroideremia (CHM). However, a comprehensive description of human topographical RPE diversity is not yet available, thus limiting the understanding of regional RPE diversity and degenerative disease sensitivity in the eye. To develop a complete morphometric RPE map of the human eye, artificial intelligence–based software was trained to recognize, segment, and analyze RPE borders. Five statistically different, concentric RPE subpopulations (P1 to P5) were identified using cell area as a parameter, including a subpopulation (P4) with cell area comparable to that of macular cells in the far periphery of the eye. This work provides a complete reference map of human RPE subpopulations and their location in the eye. In addition, the analysis of cadaver non-AMD and AMD eyes and ultra-widefield fundus images of patients revealed differential vulnerability of the five RPE subpopulations to different retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ortolan
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Andrei Volkov
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Arvydas Maminishkis
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Nathan A. Hotaling
- Information Resources Technology Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Laryssa A. Huryn
- Ophthalmic Clinical Genetics Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Catherine Cukras
- Unit on Clinical Investigation of Retinal Disease, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
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14
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Chiang MC, Chern E. Current Development, Obstacle and Futural Direction of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment in Degenerative Retinal Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052529. [PMID: 35269671 PMCID: PMC8910526 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Degenerative retinal disease is one of the major causes of vision loss around the world. The past several decades have witnessed emerging development of stem cell treatment for retinal disease. Nevertheless, sourcing stem cells remains controversial due to ethical concerns and their rarity. Furthermore, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are both isolated from patients’ mature tissues; thus, issues such as avoiding moral controversy and adverse events related to immunosuppression and obtaining a large number of cells have opened a new era in regenerative medicine. This review focuses on the current application and development, clinical trials, and latest research of stem cell therapy, as well as its limitations and future directions.
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15
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Testing Mitochondrial-Targeted Drugs in iPSC-RPE from Patients with Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15010062. [PMID: 35056119 PMCID: PMC8781759 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. No universally effective treatments exist for atrophic or “dry” AMD, which results from loss of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors and accounts for ≈80% of all AMD patients. Prior studies provide evidence for the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in AMD pathology. This study used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) RPE derived from five AMD patients to test the efficacy of three drugs (AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide), Metformin, trehalose) that target key processes in maintaining optimal mitochondrial function. The patient iPSC-RPE lines were used in a proof-of-concept drug screen, utilizing an analysis of RPE mitochondrial function following acute and extended drug exposure. Results show considerable variability in drug response across patient cell lines, supporting the need for a personalized medicine approach for treating AMD. Furthermore, our results demonstrate the feasibility of using iPSC-RPE from AMD patients to develop a personalized drug treatment regime and provide a roadmap for the future clinical management of AMD.
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16
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Korkka I, Skottman H, Nymark S. OUP accepted manuscript. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:753-766. [PMID: 35639962 PMCID: PMC9299513 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szac029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is extensively used in RPE research, disease modeling, and transplantation therapies. For successful outcomes, a thorough evaluation of their physiological authenticity is a necessity. Essential determinants of this are the different ion channels of the RPE, yet studies evaluating this machinery in hPSC-RPE are scarce. We examined the functionality and localization of potassium (K+) channels in the human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE. We observed a heterogeneous pattern of voltage-gated K+ (KV) and inwardly rectifying K+ (Kir) channels. Delayed rectifier currents were recorded from most of the cells, and immunostainings showed the presence of KV1.3 channel. Sustained M-currents were also present in the hESC-RPE, and based on immunostaining, these currents were carried by KCNQ1-KCNQ5 channel types. Some cells expressed transient A-type currents characteristic of native human fetal RPE (hfRPE) and cultured primary RPE and carried by KV1.4 and KV4.2 channels. Of the highly important Kir channels, we found that Kir7.1 is present both at the apical and basolateral membranes of the hESC- and fresh native mouse RPE. Kir currents, however, were recorded only from 14% of the hESC-RPE cells with relatively low amplitudes. Compared to previous studies, our data suggest that in the hESC-RPE, the characteristics of the delayed rectifier and M-currents resemble native adult RPE, while A-type and Kir currents resemble native hfRPE or cultured primary RPE. Overall, the channelome of the RPE is a sensitive indicator of maturity and functionality affecting its therapeutic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iina Korkka
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- Corresponding author: Soile Nymark, PhD, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520 Tampere, Finland. Tel: +358 40 849 0009; E-mail:
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17
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Schneider N, Sundaresan Y, Gopalakrishnan P, Beryozkin A, Hanany M, Levanon EY, Banin E, Ben-Aroya S, Sharon D. Inherited retinal diseases: Linking genes, disease-causing variants, and relevant therapeutic modalities. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 89:101029. [PMID: 34839010 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a clinically complex and heterogenous group of visual impairment phenotypes caused by pathogenic variants in at least 277 nuclear and mitochondrial genes, affecting different retinal regions, and depleting the vision of affected individuals. Genes that cause IRDs when mutated are unique by possessing differing genotype-phenotype correlations, varying inheritance patterns, hypomorphic alleles, and modifier genes thus complicating genetic interpretation. Next-generation sequencing has greatly advanced the identification of novel IRD-related genes and pathogenic variants in the last decade. For this review, we performed an in-depth literature search which allowed for compilation of the Global Retinal Inherited Disease (GRID) dataset containing 4,798 discrete variants and 17,299 alleles published in 31 papers, showing a wide range of frequencies and complexities among the 194 genes reported in GRID, with 65% of pathogenic variants being unique to a single individual. A better understanding of IRD-related gene distribution, gene complexity, and variant types allow for improved genetic testing and therapies. Current genetic therapeutic methods are also quite diverse and rely on variant identification, and range from whole gene replacement to single nucleotide editing at the DNA or RNA levels. IRDs and their suitable therapies thus require a range of effective disease modelling in human cells, granting insight into disease mechanisms and testing of possible treatments. This review summarizes genetic and therapeutic modalities of IRDs, provides new analyses of IRD-related genes (GRID and complexity scores), and provides information to match genetic-based therapies such as gene-specific and variant-specific therapies to the appropriate individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Schneider
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Yogapriya Sundaresan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Prakadeeswari Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Avigail Beryozkin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Mor Hanany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Erez Y Levanon
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel
| | - Shay Ben-Aroya
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Dror Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
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18
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Owji AP, Kittredge A, Zhang Y, Yang T. Structure and Function of the Bestrophin family of calcium-activated chloride channels. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:604-623. [PMID: 34612806 PMCID: PMC8496536 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2021.1981625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bestrophins are a family of calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs) with relevance to human physiology and a myriad of eye diseases termed "bestrophinopathies". Since the identification of bestrophins as CaCCs nearly two decades ago, extensive studies from electrophysiological and structural biology perspectives have sought to define their key channel features including calcium sensing, gating, inactivation, and anion selectivity. The initial X-ray crystallography studies on the prokaryotic homolog of Best1, Klebsiella pneumoniae (KpBest), and the Best1 homolog from Gallus gallus (chicken Best1, cBest1), laid the foundational groundwork for establishing the architecture of Best1. Recent progress utilizing single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy has further elucidated the molecular mechanism of gating in cBest1 and, separately, the structure of Best2 from Bos taurus (bovine Best2, bBest2). Meanwhile, whole-cell patch clamp, planar lipid bilayer, and other electrophysiologic analyses using these models as well as the human Best1 (hBest1) have provided ample evidence describing the functional properties of the bestrophin channels. This review seeks to consolidate these structural and functional results to paint a broad picture of the underlying mechanisms comprising the bestrophin family's structure-function relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron P Owji
- Department of Pharmacology, Columbia University, NY, USA
| | - Alec Kittredge
- Department of Pharmacology, Columbia University, NY, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, NY, USA
| | - Tingting Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University, NY, USA
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19
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BEST Disease and Gene Therapy. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2021; 61:167-172. [PMID: 34584054 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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20
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Image-Based Quantitation of Kainic Acid-Induced Excitotoxicity as a Model of Neurodegeneration in Human iPSC-Derived Neurons. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2549:187-207. [PMID: 34505266 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2021_421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is a feature of many neurodegenerative diseases and acquired forms of neural injury that is characterized by disruption of neuronal morphology. This is typically seen as beading and fragmentation of neurites when exposed to excitotoxins such as the AMPA receptor agonist kainic acid, with the extent to which these occur used to quantitate neurodegeneration. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a means to generate human neurons in vitro for mechanistic studies and can thereby be used to investigate how cells respond to excitotoxicity and to identify or test potential neuroprotective agents. To facilitate such studies, we have optimized a protocol for human iPSC differentiation to mature neurons in a 96-well plate format that enables image-based quantitation of changes to neuron morphology when exposed to kainic acid. Our protocol assays neuron morphology across seven excitotoxin concentrations with multiple control conditions and is ideally suited to comparison of neurons generated through differentiation of two isogenic iPSC lines in a single plate. We have included detailed step-by-step protocols for neural stem cell differentiation, neuronal maturation and exposure to kainic acid treatment, as well as different approaches to image-based quantitation that involve immunofluorescence or phase-contrast microscopy.
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21
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Stellon D, Tran MTN, Talbot J, Chear S, Khalid MKNM, Pébay A, Vickers JC, King AE, Hewitt AW, Cook AL. CRISPR/Cas-Mediated Knock-in of Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Biosensors into the AAVS1 Locus of Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2549:379-398. [PMID: 34505269 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2021_422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors (GEFBs) enable researchers to visualize and quantify cellular processes in live cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be genetically engineered to express GEFBs via integration into the Adeno-Associated Virus Integration Site 1 (AAVS1) safe harbor locus. This can be achieved using CRISPR/Cas ribonucleoprotein targeting to cause a double-strand break at the AAVS1 locus, which subsequently undergoes homology-directed repair (HDR) in the presence of a donor plasmid containing the GEFB sequence. We describe an optimized protocol for CRISPR/Cas-mediated knock-in of GEFBs into the AAVS1 locus of human iPSCs that allows puromycin selection and which exhibits negligible off-target editing. The resulting iPSC lines can be differentiated into cells of different lineages while retaining expression of the GEFB, enabling live-cell interrogation of cell pathway activities across a diversity of disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Stellon
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
| | | | - Jana Talbot
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Sueanne Chear
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Alice Pébay
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - James C Vickers
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Anna E King
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Anthony L Cook
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
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22
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Adherent but Not Suspension-Cultured Embryoid Bodies Develop into Laminated Retinal Organoids. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9030038. [PMID: 34564087 PMCID: PMC8482155 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are differentiated into three-dimensional (3D) retinal organoids to study retinogenesis and diseases that would otherwise be impossible. The complexity and low yield in current protocols remain a technical challenge, particularly for inexperienced personnel. Differentiation protocols require labor-intensive and time-consuming dissection of optic vesicles (OVs). Here we compare this method with a suspension method of developing retinal organoids. iPSCs were differentiated with standard protocols but the suspension-grown method omitted the re-plating of embryoid bodies and dissection of OVs. All other media and treatments were identical between developmental methods. Developmental maturation was evaluated with RT-qPCR and immunocytochemistry. Dissection- and suspension-derived retinal organoids displayed temporal biogenesis of retinal cell types. Differences in retinal organoids generated by the two methods of differentiation included temporal developmental and the organization of neural retina layers. Retinal organoids grown in suspension showed delayed development and disorganized retinal layers compared to the dissected retinal organoids. We found that omitting the re-plating of EBs to form OVs resulted in numerous OVs that were easy to identify and matured along a retinal lineage. While more efficient, the suspension method led to retinal organoids with disorganized retinal layers compared to those obtained using conventional dissection protocols.
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23
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Pathogenic Effects of Mineralocorticoid Pathway Activation in Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179618. [PMID: 34502527 PMCID: PMC8431771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are amongst the most used drugs to treat retinal diseases of various origins. Yet, the transcriptional regulations induced by glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation in retinal pigment epithelium cells (RPE) that form the outer blood-retina barrier are unknown. Levels of endogenous corticoids, ligands for MR and GR, were measured in human ocular media. Human RPE cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iRPE) were used to analyze the pan-transcriptional regulations induced by aldosterone-an MR-specific agonist, or cortisol or cortisol + RU486-a GR antagonist. The retinal phenotype of transgenic mice that overexpress the human MR (P1.hMR) was analyzed. In the human eye, the main ligand for GR and MR is cortisol. The iRPE cells express functional GR and MR. The subset of genes regulated by aldosterone and by cortisol + RU-486, and not by cortisol alone, mimics an imbalance toward MR activation. They are involved in extracellular matrix remodeling (CNN1, MGP, AMTN), epithelial-mesenchymal transition, RPE cell proliferation and migration (ITGB3, PLAUR and FOSL1) and immune balance (TNFSF18 and PTX3). The P1.hMR mice showed choroidal vasodilation, focal alteration of the RPE/choroid interface and migration of RPE cells together with RPE barrier function alteration, similar to human retinal diseases within the pachychoroid spectrum. RPE is a corticosteroid-sensitive epithelium. MR pathway activation in the RPE regulates genes involved in barrier function, extracellular matrix, neural regulation and epithelial differentiation, which could contribute to retinal pathology.
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24
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Hytti M, Korhonen E, Hongisto H, Kaarniranta K, Skottman H, Kauppinen A. Differential Expression of Inflammasome-Related Genes in Induced Pluripotent Stem-Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells with or without History of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136800. [PMID: 34202702 PMCID: PMC8268331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a key underlying factor of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inflammasome activation has been linked to disease development. Induced pluripotent stem-cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells (iPSC-RPE) are an attractive novel model system that can help to further elucidate disease pathways of this complex disease. Here, we analyzed the effect of dysfunctional protein clearance on inflammation and inflammasome activation in iPSC-RPE cells generated from a patient suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and an age-matched control. We primed iPSC-RPE cells with IL-1α and then inhibited both proteasomal degradation and autophagic clearance using MG-132 and bafilomycin A1, respectively, causing inflammasome activation. Subsequently, we determined cell viability, analyzed the expression levels of inflammasome-related genes using a PCR array, and measured the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1 secreted into the medium. Cell treatments modified the expression of 48 inflammasome-related genes and increased the secretion of mature IL-1β, while reducing the levels of IL-6 and MCP-1. Interestingly, iPSC-RPE from an AMD donor secreted more IL-1β and expressed more Hsp90 prior to the inhibition of protein clearance, while MCP-1 and IL-6 were reduced at both protein and mRNA levels. Overall, our results suggest that cellular clearance mechanisms might already be dysfunctional, and the inflammasome activated, in cells with a disease origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hytti
- Immuno-Ophthalmology, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Correspondence: (M.H.); (A.K.); Tel.: +358-50-362-3058 (M.H.); +358-40-355-3216 (A.K.)
| | - Eveliina Korhonen
- Immuno-Ophthalmology, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, 00029 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heidi Hongisto
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland; (H.H.); (H.S.)
- Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70029 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, 33014 Tampere, Finland; (H.H.); (H.S.)
| | - Anu Kauppinen
- Immuno-Ophthalmology, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, 70210 Kuopio, Finland;
- Correspondence: (M.H.); (A.K.); Tel.: +358-50-362-3058 (M.H.); +358-40-355-3216 (A.K.)
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25
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Dewell TE, Gjoni K, Liu AZ, Libby ARG, Moore AT, So PL, Conklin BR. Transcription factor overexpression drives reliable differentiation of retinal pigment epithelium from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Res 2021; 53:102368. [PMID: 34087997 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2021.102368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration and genetic forms of blindness such as Best Disease and Retinitis Pigmentosa can be caused by degeneration of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE). RPE generated from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is valuable for both the study of disease mechanisms and development of therapeutic strategies. However, protocols to produce iPSC-derived RPE in vitro are often inefficient, labor-intensive, low-throughput, and highly variable between cell lines and within batches. Here, we report a robust, scalable method to generate iPSC-RPE using doxycycline-inducible expression of eye field transcription factors OTX2, PAX6 and MITF paired with RPE-permissive culture media. Doxycycline addition induces exogenous expression of these transcription factors in Best Disease patient- and wildtype iPSCs to efficiently produce monolayers of RPE with characteristic morphology and gene expression. Further, these RPE monolayers display functionality features including light absorption via pigmentation, polarity-driven fluid transport, and phagocytosis. With this method, we achieve a highly efficient and easily scalable differentiation without the need for mechanical isolation or enrichment methods, generating RPE cultures applicable for in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa E Dewell
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Ketrin Gjoni
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Angela Z Liu
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Ashley R G Libby
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Program, University of California, 1675 Owens St, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Anthony T Moore
- UCSF Department of Ophthalmology, 10 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA 94143-0730, USA
| | - Po-Lin So
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Innovative Genomics Institute, 2151 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Gladstone Institutes Stem Cell Core, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Bruce R Conklin
- Gladstone Institutes, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; UCSF Department of Ophthalmology, 10 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA 94143-0730, USA; Innovative Genomics Institute, 2151 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; UCSF Department of Medicine, 535 Mission Bay Blvd South, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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26
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Cai H, Gong J, Noggle S, Paull D, Rizzolo LJ, Del Priore LV, Fields MA. Altered transcriptome and disease-related phenotype emerge only after fibroblasts harvested from patients with age-related macular degeneration are differentiated into retinal pigment epithelium. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108576. [PMID: 33895162 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We have reported previously that retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) generated from fibroblasts of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) exhibit a retinal degenerative disease phenotype and a distinct transcriptome compared to age-matched controls. Since the genetic composition of the iPSC and RPE are inherited from fibroblasts, we investigated whether differential behavior was present in the parental fibroblasts and iPSC prior to differentiation of the cell lines into RPE. Principal component analyses revealed significant overlap (essentially no differences) in the transcriptome of fibroblasts between AMD and controls. After reprogramming, there was no significant difference in the transcriptome of iPSC generated from AMD versus normal donors. In contrast, the transcriptome of RPE derived from iPSC segregated into two distinct clusters of AMD-derived cells versus controls. Interestingly, mitochondrial dysfunction in AMD-derived RPE was evident after approximately two months in culture. Moreover, these differences in mitochondrial dysfunction were not evident in the parental fibroblasts and iPSC. This study demonstrates an altered transcriptome and impaired mitochondrial function in RPE derived from AMD patients versus controls, and demonstrates these differences are not present in the original fibroblasts or iPSC. These results suggest that pathology in AMD is triggered upon differentiation of parent cells into RPE. More study of this phenomenon could advance the current understandings of the etiology of AMD and the development of novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 8100, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Jie Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 8100, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
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- The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Research Institute, 619 West 54th St., New York, NY, 10019, USA
| | - Scott Noggle
- The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Research Institute, 619 West 54th St., New York, NY, 10019, USA
| | - Daniel Paull
- The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Research Institute, 619 West 54th St., New York, NY, 10019, USA
| | - Lawrence J Rizzolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 8100, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA; Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208062, New Haven, CT, 06520-8062, USA
| | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 8100, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Mark A Fields
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, 300 George St., Suite 8100, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
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27
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Manian KV, Galloway CA, Dalvi S, Emanuel AA, Mereness JA, Black W, Winschel L, Soto C, Li Y, Song Y, DeMaria W, Kumar A, Slukvin I, Schwartz MP, Murphy WL, Anand-Apte B, Chung M, Benoit DSW, Singh R. 3D iPSC modeling of the retinal pigment epithelium-choriocapillaris complex identifies factors involved in the pathology of macular degeneration. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:846-862.e8. [PMID: 33784497 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choriocapillaris (CC) complex in the eye is compromised in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and related macular dystrophies (MDs), yet in vitro models of RPE-CC complex that enable investigation of AMD/MD pathophysiology are lacking. By incorporating iPSC-derived cells into a hydrogel-based extracellular matrix, we developed a 3D RPE-CC model that recapitulates key features of both healthy and AMD/MD eyes and provides modular control over RPE and CC layers. Using this 3D RPE-CC model, we demonstrated that both RPE- and mesenchyme-secreted factors are necessary for the formation of fenestrated CC-like vasculature. Our data show that choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and CC atrophy occur in the absence of endothelial cell dysfunction and are not necessarily secondary to drusen deposits underneath RPE cells, and CC atrophy and/or CNV can be initiated systemically by patient serum or locally by mutant RPE-secreted factors. Finally, we identify FGF2 and matrix metalloproteinases as potential therapeutic targets for AMD/MDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan V Manian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Chad A Galloway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Sonal Dalvi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Anthony A Emanuel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Jared A Mereness
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert B. Goergen Hall, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA; Department of Orthopedics and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Center for Oral Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642 USA
| | - Whitney Black
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Lauren Winschel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Celia Soto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Yiming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert B. Goergen Hall, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - Yuanhui Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert B. Goergen Hall, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - William DeMaria
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert B. Goergen Hall, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - Akhilesh Kumar
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Igor Slukvin
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Michael P Schwartz
- NSF Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - William L Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Bela Anand-Apte
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Mina Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Danielle S W Benoit
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert B. Goergen Hall, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA; Department of Orthopedics and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Center for Oral Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642 USA; UR Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Center, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Materials Science Program, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Ruchira Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; Department of Orthopedics and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA; UR Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Center, Rochester, NY 14620, USA.
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28
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Singh Grewal S, Smith JJ, Carr AJF. Bestrophinopathies: perspectives on clinical disease, Bestrophin-1 function and developing therapies. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2021; 13:2515841421997191. [PMID: 33738427 PMCID: PMC7934022 DOI: 10.1177/2515841421997191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bestrophinopathies are a group of clinically distinct inherited retinal dystrophies that typically affect the macular region, an area synonymous with central high acuity vision. This spectrum of disorders is caused by mutations in bestrophin1 (BEST1), a protein thought to act as a Ca2+-activated Cl- channel in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) of the eye. Although bestrophinopathies are rare, over 250 individual pathological mutations have been identified in the BEST1 gene, with many reported to have various clinical expressivity and incomplete penetrance. With no current clinical treatments available for patients with bestrophinopathies, understanding the role of BEST1 in cells and the pathological pathways underlying disease has become a priority. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology is helping to uncover disease mechanisms and develop treatments for RPE diseases, like bestrophinopathies. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology of bestrophinopathies and highlight how patient-derived iPSC-RPE are being used to test new genomic therapies in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph J Smith
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Amanda-Jayne F Carr
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
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29
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Mamaeva D, Jazouli Z, DiFrancesco ML, Erkilic N, Dubois G, Hilaire C, Meunier I, Boukhaddaoui H, Kalatzis V. Novel roles for voltage-gated T-type Ca 2+ and ClC-2 channels in phagocytosis and angiogenic factor balance identified in human iPSC-derived RPE. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21406. [PMID: 33724552 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002754r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a powerful tool for pathophysiological studies and preclinical therapeutic screening, as well as a source for clinical cell transplantation. Thus, it must be validated for maturity and functionality to ensure correct data readouts and clinical safety. Previous studies have validated hiPSC-derived RPE as morphologically characteristic of the tissue in the human eye. However, information concerning the expression and functionality of ion channels is still limited. We screened hiPSC-derived RPE for the polarized expression of a panel of L-type (CaV 1.1, CaV 1.3) and T-type (CaV 3.1, CaV 3.3) Ca2+ channels, K+ channels (Maxi-K, Kir4.1, Kir7.1), and the Cl- channel ClC-2 known to be expressed in native RPE. We also tested the roles of these channels in key RPE functions using specific inhibitors. In addition to confirming the native expression profiles and function of certain channels, such as L-type Ca2+ channels, we show for the first time that T-type Ca2+ channels play a role in both phagocytosis and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. Moreover, we demonstrate that Maxi-K and Kir7.1 channels are involved in the polarized secretion of VEGF and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). Furthermore, we show a novel localization for ClC-2 channel on the apical side of hiPSC-derived RPE, with an overexpression at the level of fluid-filled domes, and demonstrate that it plays an important role in phagocytosis, as well as VEGF and PEDF secretion. Taken together, hiPSC-derived RPE is a powerful model for advancing fundamental knowledge of RPE functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Mamaeva
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Zhour Jazouli
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Mattia L DiFrancesco
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Nejla Erkilic
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,National Reference Centre for Inherited Sensory Diseases, Montpellier University, CHU, Montpellier, France
| | - Gregor Dubois
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Cecile Hilaire
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Isabelle Meunier
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,National Reference Centre for Inherited Sensory Diseases, Montpellier University, CHU, Montpellier, France
| | - Hassan Boukhaddaoui
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Vasiliki Kalatzis
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Inserm, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
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30
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A human model of Batten disease shows role of CLN3 in phagocytosis at the photoreceptor-RPE interface. Commun Biol 2021; 4:161. [PMID: 33547385 PMCID: PMC7864947 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01682-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in CLN3 lead to photoreceptor cell loss in CLN3 disease, a lysosomal storage disorder characterized by childhood-onset vision loss, neurological impairment, and premature death. However, how CLN3 mutations cause photoreceptor cell death is not known. Here, we show that CLN3 is required for phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segment (POS) by retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, a cellular process essential for photoreceptor survival. Specifically, a proportion of CLN3 in human, mouse, and iPSC-RPE cells localized to RPE microvilli, the site of POS phagocytosis. Furthermore, patient-derived CLN3 disease iPSC-RPE cells showed decreased RPE microvilli density and reduced POS binding and ingestion. Notably, POS phagocytosis defect in CLN3 disease iPSC-RPE cells could be rescued by wild-type CLN3 gene supplementation. Altogether, these results illustrate a novel role of CLN3 in regulating POS phagocytosis and suggest a contribution of primary RPE dysfunction for photoreceptor cell loss in CLN3 disease that can be targeted by gene therapy.
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31
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Liu F, Peng S, Adelman RA, Rizzolo LJ. Knockdown of Claudin-19 in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium Is Accompanied by Slowed Phagocytosis and Increased Expression of SQSTM1. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:14. [PMID: 33591357 PMCID: PMC7900869 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.2.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Besides regulating paracellular diffusion, claudin-19 modulates the expression of proteins essential for the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). This study asks how RPE responds when the expression of claudin-19 is reduced. Methods In stem cell-derived RPE, claudin-19 and sequestosome-1/p62 (SQSTM1) were knocked down with siRNAs. Expression was monitored by quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting. Morphology and function were monitored by immunocytochemistry and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER). Phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments (POSs) was followed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting and western blotting. Pharmacology was used to assess the effects of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and SQSTM1 on phagocytosis. Enzymatic activity was measured using commercial assay kits. Results Knockdown of claudin-19 reduced the TER without affecting the integrity of the apical junctional complex, as assessed by the distribution of zonula occludens-1 and filamentous actin. AMPK was activated without apparent effect on autophagy. Activation of AMPK alone had little effect on phagocytosis. Without affecting ingestion, knockdown reduced the rate of POS degradation and increased the steady-state levels of LC3B and SQSTM1. Proteasome inhibitors also retarded degradation, as did knockdown of SQSTM1. The expression of metallothioneins and the activity of superoxide dismutase increased. Conclusions Knockdown of claudin-19 slowed the degradation of internalized POSs. The study questions the role of activated AMPK in phagocytosis and suggests a role for SQSTM1. Further, knockdown was associated with a partial oxidative stress response. The study opens new avenues of experimentation to explore these essential RPE functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanfei Liu
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Deparment of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Shaomin Peng
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ron A. Adelman
- Deparment of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Lawrence J. Rizzolo
- Department of Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Deparment of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
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32
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Viheriälä T, Sorvari J, Ihalainen TO, Mörö A, Grönroos P, Schlie-Wolter S, Chichkov B, Skottman H, Nymark S, Ilmarinen T. Culture surface protein coatings affect the barrier properties and calcium signalling of hESC-RPE. Sci Rep 2021; 11:933. [PMID: 33441679 PMCID: PMC7806758 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79638-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation is currently under evaluation as treatment for macular degeneration. For therapeutic applications, cryostorage during cell production is typically needed with potential consequences to cell functionality. We have previously shown that the culture substrate affects human embryonic stem cell-derived RPE (hESC-RPE) properties in fresh cultures. Here, we aimed to further identify the role of RPE basement membrane proteins type IV collagen (Col-IV), laminin (LN), and nidogen-1 in the maturation and functionality of hESC-RPE after cryopreservation. In addition to cell attachment and morphology, transepithelial electrical resistance, expression of key RPE proteins, phagocytosis capacity and Ca2+ signalling were analysed. After cryostorage, attachment of hESC-RPE on culture surfaces coated with Col-IV alone was poor. Combining Col-IV and LN with or without nidogen-1 significantly improved cell attachment and barrier properties of the epithelium. Furthermore, functional homogeneity of the hESC-RPE monolayer was enhanced in the presence of nidogen-1. Our results suggest that the choice of coating proteins for the cell culture may have implications to the functional properties of these cells after cryostorage cell banking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taina Viheriälä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Juhana Sorvari
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Teemu O Ihalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anni Mörö
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pyry Grönroos
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sabrina Schlie-Wolter
- Institute for Multiphase Processes, Leibniz University of Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Boris Chichkov
- Institute of Quantum Optics, Leibniz University of Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, BioMediTech, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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33
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Bonilha VL, Bell BA, DeBenedictis MJ, Hagstrom SA, Fishman GA, Hollyfield JG. Cellular Changes in Retinas From Patients With BEST1 Mutations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:573330. [PMID: 33154968 PMCID: PMC7591587 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.573330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Best disease (BD), also known as vitelliform macular dystrophy, is an inherited disease of the central retina caused by more than 300 pathogenic variants in the BEST1 gene. The phenotype of BD is variable, and there are just a few reports on the histopathology of eyes from donors with BD. Here, we describe the histopathological comparison of donor’s eyes from two patients with BD. Eyes obtained from 85-year-old (donor 1) and 65-year-old (donor 2) donors were fixed within 25 h postmortem. Perifoveal and peripheral retinal regions were processed for histology and immunocytochemistry using retinal-specific and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-specific antibodies. Three age-matched normal eyes were used as controls. DNA was obtained from donor blood samples. Sequence analysis of the entire BEST1 coding region was performed and identified a c.886A > C (p.Asn296His) variant in donor 1 and a c.602T > C (p.Ile201Thr) variant in donor 2; both mutations were heterozygous. Fundus examination showed that donor 1 displayed a macular lesion with considerable scarring while donor 2 displayed close to normal macular morphology. Our studies of histology and molecular pathology in the perifovea and periphery of these two BD donor eyes revealed panretinal abnormalities in both photoreceptors and RPE cellular levels in the periphery; donor 1 also displayed macular lesion. Our findings confirm the phenotypic variability of BD associated with BEST1 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera L Bonilha
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Brent A Bell
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Meghan J DeBenedictis
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Stephanie A Hagstrom
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Gerald A Fishman
- Pangere Center at The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joe G Hollyfield
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
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34
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Lee JH, Oh JO, Lee CS. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Modeling of Best Disease and Autosomal Recessive Bestrophinopathy. Yonsei Med J 2020; 61:816-825. [PMID: 32882766 PMCID: PMC7471084 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2020.61.9.816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand the pathophysiology of Best disease (BD) and autosomal recessive bestrophinopathy (ARB) by establishing an in vitro model using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Human iPSC lines were generated from mononuclear cells in peripheral blood of one ARB patient, one autosomal dominant BD patient, and two normal controls. Immunocytochemistry and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction in iPSC lines were conducted to demonstrate the pluripotent markers. After the differentiation of iPSC into functional retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), morphological characteristics of the RPE were evaluated using confocal microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The rates of fluid flow across iPSC-RPE monolayer were measured to compare apical to basal fluid transports by RPE. RNA sequencing was performed on iPSC-RPE to identify the differences in gene expression profiles, and specific gene sets were tested using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. RESULTS Morphological characteristics, gene expression, and epithelial integrity of ARB iPSC were comparable to those of BD patient or normal control. Fluid transport from apical to basal was significantly decreased in ARB iPSC-RPE compared with BD iPSC-RPE or control iPSC-RPE. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis confirmed that ARB iPSC-RPE exhibited significant enrichments of epithelial-mesenchymal transition gene set and TNF-α signaling via NF-κB gene set compared to control iPSC-RPE or BD iPSC-RPE. CONCLUSION A human iPSC model of ARB showed a functional deficiency rather than anatomical defects. ARB may be caused by RPE dysfunction following BEST1 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hwan Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Ok Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Christopher Seungkyu Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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35
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Sinha D, Steyer B, Shahi PK, Mueller KP, Valiauga R, Edwards KL, Bacig C, Steltzer SS, Srinivasan S, Abdeen A, Cory E, Periyasamy V, Siahpirani AF, Stone EM, Tucker BA, Roy S, Pattnaik BR, Saha K, Gamm DM. Human iPSC Modeling Reveals Mutation-Specific Responses to Gene Therapy in a Genotypically Diverse Dominant Maculopathy. Am J Hum Genet 2020; 107:278-292. [PMID: 32707085 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Dominantly inherited disorders are not typically considered to be therapeutic candidates for gene augmentation. Here, we utilized induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (iPSC-RPE) to test the potential of gene augmentation to treat Best disease, a dominant macular dystrophy caused by over 200 missense mutations in BEST1. Gene augmentation in iPSC-RPE fully restored BEST1 calcium-activated chloride channel activity and improved rhodopsin degradation in an iPSC-RPE model of recessive bestrophinopathy as well as in two models of dominant Best disease caused by different mutations in regions encoding ion-binding domains. A third dominant Best disease iPSC-RPE model did not respond to gene augmentation, but showed normalization of BEST1 channel activity following CRISPR-Cas9 editing of the mutant allele. We then subjected all three dominant Best disease iPSC-RPE models to gene editing, which produced premature stop codons specifically within the mutant BEST1 alleles. Single-cell profiling demonstrated no adverse perturbation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transcriptional programs in any model, although off-target analysis detected a silent genomic alteration in one model. These results suggest that gene augmentation is a viable first-line approach for some individuals with dominant Best disease and that non-responders are candidates for alternate approaches such as gene editing. However, testing gene editing strategies for on-target efficiency and off-target events using personalized iPSC-RPE model systems is warranted. In summary, personalized iPSC-RPE models can be used to select among a growing list of gene therapy options to maximize safety and efficacy while minimizing time and cost. Similar scenarios likely exist for other genotypically diverse channelopathies, expanding the therapeutic landscape for affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Sinha
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Benjamin Steyer
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Pawan K Shahi
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Katherine P Mueller
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Rasa Valiauga
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | | | - Cole Bacig
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Stephanie S Steltzer
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Sandhya Srinivasan
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Amr Abdeen
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Evan Cory
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Viswesh Periyasamy
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | | | - Edwin M Stone
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Sushmita Roy
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Bikash R Pattnaik
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Krishanu Saha
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - David M Gamm
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Dual SMAD inhibition and Wnt inhibition enable efficient and reproducible differentiations of induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal ganglion cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11828. [PMID: 32678240 PMCID: PMC7366935 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68811-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of progressive optic neuropathies that share common biological and clinical characteristics including irreversible changes to the optic nerve and visual field loss caused by the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The loss of RGCs manifests as characteristic cupping or optic nerve degeneration, resulting in visual field loss in patients with Glaucoma. Published studies on in vitro RGC differentiation from stem cells utilized classical RGC signaling pathways mimicking retinal development in vivo. Although many strategies allowed for the generation of RGCs, increased variability between experiments and lower yield hampered the cross comparison between individual lines and between experiments. To address this critical need, we developed a reproducible chemically defined in vitro methodology for generating retinal progenitor cell (RPC) populations from iPSCs, that are efficiently directed towards RGC lineage. Using this method, we reproducibly differentiated iPSCs into RGCs with greater than 80% purity, without any genetic modifications. We used small molecules and peptide modulators to inhibit BMP, TGF-β (SMAD), and canonical Wnt pathways that reduced variability between iPSC lines and yielded functional and mature iPSC-RGCs. Using CD90.2 antibody and Magnetic Activated Cell Sorter (MACS) technique, we successfully purified Thy-1 positive RGCs with nearly 95% purity.
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Mutation-Dependent Pathomechanisms Determine the Phenotype in the Bestrophinopathies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051597. [PMID: 32111077 PMCID: PMC7084480 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BD), autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy (ADVIRC), and the autosomal recessive bestrophinopathy (ARB), together known as the bestrophinopathies, are caused by mutations in the bestrophin-1 (BEST1) gene affecting anion transport through the plasma membrane of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). To date, while no treatment exists a better understanding of BEST1-related pathogenesis may help to define therapeutic targets. Here, we systematically characterize functional consequences of mutant BEST1 in thirteen RPE patient cell lines differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Both BD and ARB hiPSC-RPEs display a strong reduction of BEST1-mediated anion transport function compared to control, while ADVIRC mutations trigger an increased anion permeability suggesting a stabilized open state condition of channel gating. Furthermore, BD and ARB hiPSC-RPEs differ by the degree of mutant protein turnover and by the site of subcellular protein quality control with adverse effects on lysosomal pH only in the BD-related cell lines. The latter finding is consistent with an altered processing of catalytic enzymes in the lysosomes. The present study provides a deeper insight into distinct molecular mechanisms of the three bestrophinopathies facilitating functional categorization of the more than 300 known BEST1 mutations that result into the distinct retinal phenotypes.
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Cordes M, Bucichowski P, Alfaar AS, Tsang SH, Almedawar S, Reichhart N, Strauß O. Inhibition of Ca 2+ channel surface expression by mutant bestrophin-1 in RPE cells. FASEB J 2020; 34:4055-4071. [PMID: 31930599 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901202rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The BEST1 gene product bestrophin-1, a Ca2+ -dependent anion channel, interacts with CaV 1.3 Ca2+ channels in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). BEST1 mutations lead to Best vitelliform macular dystrophy. A common functional defect of these mutations is reduced trafficking of bestrophin-1 into the plasma membrane. We hypothesized that this defect affects the interaction partner CaV 1.3 channel affecting Ca2+ signaling and altered RPE function. Thus, we investigated the protein interaction between CaV 1.3 channels and bestrophin-1 by immunoprecipitation, CaV 1.3 activity in the presence of mutant bestrophin-1 and intracellular trafficking of the interaction partners in confluent RPE monolayers. We selected four BEST1 mutations, each representing one mutational hotspot of the disease: T6P, F80L, R218C, and F305S. Heterologously expressed L-type channels and mutant bestrophin-1 showed reduced interaction, reduced CaV 1.3 channel activity, and changes in surface expression. Transfection of polarized RPE (porcine primary cells, iPSC-RPE) that endogenously express CaV 1.3 and wild-type bestrophin-1, with mutant bestrophin-1 confirmed reduction of CaV 1.3 surface expression. For the four selected BEST1 mutations, presence of mutant bestrophin-1 led to reduced CaV 1.3 activity by modulating pore-function or decreasing surface expression. Reduced CaV 1.3 activity might open new ways to understand symptoms of Best vitelliform macular dystrophy such as reduced electro-oculogram, lipofuscin accumulation, and vision impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Cordes
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a corporate member of Freie Universität, Humboldt-University, the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Piotr Bucichowski
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a corporate member of Freie Universität, Humboldt-University, the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ahmad S Alfaar
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a corporate member of Freie Universität, Humboldt-University, the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Jonas Children's Vision Care, and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Departments of Ophthalmology Pathology & Cell Biology, Institute of Human Nutrition, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Seba Almedawar
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Center for Regenerative Therapies, Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Nadine Reichhart
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a corporate member of Freie Universität, Humboldt-University, the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Olaf Strauß
- Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, a corporate member of Freie Universität, Humboldt-University, the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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Abstract
Bestrophinopathies are a group of clinically distinct inherited retinal dystrophies that lead to the gradual loss of vision in and around the macular area. There are no treatments for patients suffering from bestrophinopathies, and no measures can be taken to prevent visual deterioration in those who have inherited disease-causing mutations. Bestrophinopathies are caused by mutations in the Bestrophin1 gene (BEST1), a protein found exclusively in the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells of the eye. Mutations in BEST1 affect the function of the RPE leading to the death of overlying retinal cells and subsequent vision loss. The pathogenic mechanisms arising from BEST1 mutations are still not fully understood, and it is not clear how mutations in BEST1 lead to diseases with distinct clinical features. This chapter discusses BEST1, the use of model systems to investigate the effects of mutations and the potential to investigate individual bestrophinopathies using induced pluripotent stem cells.
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Batıoğlu F, Yanık Ö, Demirel S, Çağlar Ç, Özmert E. A Case of Best Disease Accompanied by Pachychoroid Neovasculopathy. Turk J Ophthalmol 2019; 49:226-229. [PMID: 31486612 PMCID: PMC6761379 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2019.38073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this case presentation is to describe ocular findings of a 22-year-old patient with Best vitelliform macular dystrophy accompanied by pachychoroid neovasculopathy. Color fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) images were reviewed. Fundoscopic examination showed bilateral yellowish vitelliform-like submacular deposits. FAF revealed these deposits as hyperautofluorescent spots. OCT showed flat irregular pigment epithelial detachments corresponding to these submacular deposits. OCT showed choroidal thickening and dilatation of the large outer oval choroidal vessels. Fundus fluorescein angiography could not be performed because the patient was pregnant. En face OCTA images of the choriocapillaris illustrated the choroidal neovascular network. In this case report, we describe for the first time the coexistence of Best vitelliform macular dystrophy and pachychoroid neovasculopathy with OCTA images enabling visualization of the neovascular network in a patient with contraindication for fluorescein angiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Figen Batıoğlu
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Özge Yanık
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sibel Demirel
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Çağatay Çağlar
- Hitit University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Çorum, Turkey
| | - Emin Özmert
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey
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Outer Retinal Alterations Associated With Visual Outcomes in Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. Am J Ophthalmol 2019; 208:429-437. [PMID: 31465755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2019.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe outer retinal structure in patients with Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and correlate these results with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and patient age. DESIGN Retrospective cross-sectional study. METHODS Patients with molecularly confirmed BVMD were compared with normal control subjects (NCs). A complete clinical evaluation was performed, including BCVA, fundus photography, spectral-domain OCT, and fundus autofluorescence. Spectral-domain OCT images were analyzed to determine the stage of the lesion, the central macular thickness (CMT), the foveal outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness, and tomographic structural changes. RESULTS Forty-two patients with BVMD (42 eyes) with a molecular diagnosis and 42 NCs (42 eyes) were included. Clinical stages (Gass clinical classification) were distributed as follows: 4.8% for stage 1, 23.8% for stage 2, 16.6% for stage 3, 45.2% for stage 4, and 9.5% for stage 5. The presence of subretinal fluid and vitelliform material was noted in 76% and 79% of the BVMD eyes examined, respectively, and was not associated with BCVA modification (P = .758 and P = .968, respectively). The median ONL thickness was significantly lower compared with the NCs (P < .001). BCVA was significantly correlated with stage (R = 0.710; P < .01), age (R = 0.448; P < .01), CMT (R = -0.411; P < .01), and ONL thickness (R = -0.620; P < .01). The disruption of the external limiting membrane and the ellipsoid zone was associated with a decreased BCVA (P < .001 for both). Among the 32 eyes with subretinal detachment, photoreceptor outer segment length was significantly correlated with BCVA (R = -0.467; P < .01) and ONL thickness (R = 0.444; P = < .01). CONCLUSION This study shows the correlation between BCVA, age, and spectral-domain OCT features in patients with BVMD. ONL thickness as well as photoreceptor outer segment length are relevant functional correlates and outcome measures to follow photoreceptor impairments and disease progression.
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Fields MA, Del Priore LV, Adelman RA, Rizzolo LJ. Interactions of the choroid, Bruch's membrane, retinal pigment epithelium, and neurosensory retina collaborate to form the outer blood-retinal-barrier. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 76:100803. [PMID: 31704339 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The three interacting components of the outer blood-retinal barrier are the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), choriocapillaris, and Bruch's membrane, the extracellular matrix that lies between them. Although previously reviewed independently, this review integrates these components into a more wholistic view of the barrier and discusses reconstitution models to explore the interactions among them. After updating our understanding of each component's contribution to barrier function, we discuss recent efforts to examine how the components interact. Recent studies demonstrate that claudin-19 regulates multiple aspects of RPE's barrier function and identifies a barrier function whereby mutations of claudin-19 affect retinal development. Co-culture approaches to reconstitute components of the outer blood-retinal barrier are beginning to reveal two-way interactions between the RPE and choriocapillaris. These interactions affect barrier function and the composition of the intervening Bruch's membrane. Normal or disease models of Bruch's membrane, reconstituted with healthy or diseased RPE, demonstrate adverse effects of diseased matrix on RPE metabolism. A stumbling block for reconstitution studies is the substrates typically used to culture cells are inadequate substitutes for Bruch's membrane. Together with human stem cells, the alternative substrates that have been designed offer an opportunity to engineer second-generation culture models of the outer blood-retinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Fields
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208061, New Haven, CT, 06520-8061, USA
| | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208061, New Haven, CT, 06520-8061, USA
| | - Ron A Adelman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208061, New Haven, CT, 06520-8061, USA
| | - Lawrence J Rizzolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208061, New Haven, CT, 06520-8061, USA; Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208062, New Haven, CT, 06520-8062, USA.
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Huang KC, Wang ML, Chen SJ, Kuo JC, Wang WJ, Nhi Nguyen PN, Wahlin KJ, Lu JF, Tran AA, Shi M, Chien Y, Yarmishyn AA, Tsai PH, Yang TC, Jane WN, Chang CC, Peng CH, Schlaeger TM, Chiou SH. Morphological and Molecular Defects in Human Three-Dimensional Retinal Organoid Model of X-Linked Juvenile Retinoschisis. Stem Cell Reports 2019; 13:906-923. [PMID: 31668851 PMCID: PMC6895767 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2019.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked juvenile retinoschisis (XLRS), linked to mutations in the RS1 gene, is a degenerative retinopathy with a retinal splitting phenotype. We generated human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from patients to study XLRS in a 3D retinal organoid in vitro differentiation system. This model recapitulates key features of XLRS including retinal splitting, defective retinoschisin production, outer-segment defects, abnormal paxillin turnover, and impaired ER-Golgi transportation. RS1 mutation also affects the development of photoreceptor sensory cilia and results in altered expression of other retinopathy-associated genes. CRISPR/Cas9 correction of the disease-associated C625T mutation normalizes the splitting phenotype, outer-segment defects, paxillin dynamics, ciliary marker expression, and transcriptome profiles. Likewise, mutating RS1 in control hiPSCs produces the disease-associated phenotypes. Finally, we show that the C625T mutation can be repaired precisely and efficiently using a base-editing approach. Taken together, our data establish 3D organoids as a valid disease model. hiPSC-derived retinal organoid model recapitulates key features of XLRS CRISPR/Cas9 correction normalizes RS1 secretion and retinal development Transcriptome analysis links XLRS to other hereditary retinopathies
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Chieh Huang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Mong-Lien Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Institute of Food Safety and Health Risk Assessment, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Jean-Cheng Kuo
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Cancer Progression Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Won-Jing Wang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Phan Nguyen Nhi Nguyen
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Karl J Wahlin
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jyh-Feng Lu
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 24205, Taiwan
| | - Audrey A Tran
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Shi
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yueh Chien
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | | | - Ping-Hsing Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Chun Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Wann-Neng Jane
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ching Chang
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsien Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital & Fu-Jen Catholic University, Taipei 11101, Taiwan
| | - Thorsten M Schlaeger
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan; Genomic Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
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Gamm DM, Clark E, Capowski EE, Singh R. The Role of FGF9 in the Production of Neural Retina and RPE in a Pluripotent Stem Cell Model of Early Human Retinal Development. Am J Ophthalmol 2019; 206:113-131. [PMID: 31078532 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2019.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the role of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) in the production of neural retina (NR) and retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) in a human pluripotent stem cell model of early retinal development. METHODS Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines from an individual with microphthalmia caused by a functional null mutation (R200Q) in visual system homeobox 2 (VSX2), a transcription factor involved in early NR progenitor cell (NRPC) production, and a normal sibling were differentiated along the retinal and forebrain lineages using an established protocol. Quantitative and global gene expression analyses (microarray and RNAseq) were used to investigate endogenous FGF expression profiles in these cultures over time. Based on these results, mutant and control hiPSC cultures were treated exogenously with selected FGFs and subjected to gene and protein expression analyses to determine their effects on RPE and NR production. RESULTS We found that FGF9 and FGF19 were selectively increased in early hiPSC-derived optic vesicles (OVs) when compared to isogenic cultures of hiPSC-derived forebrain neurospheres. Furthermore, these same FGFs were downregulated over time in (R200Q)VSX2 hiPSC-OVs relative to sibling control hiPSC-OVs. Interestingly, long-term supplementation with FGF9, but not FGF19, partially rescued the mutant retinal phenotype of the (R200Q)VSX2 hiPSC-OV model. However, antagonizing FGF9 in wild-type control hiPSCs did not alter OV development. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that FGF9 acts in concert with VSX2 to promote NR differentiation in hiPSC-OVs and has potential to be used to manipulate early retinogenesis and mitigate ocular defects caused by functional loss of VSX2 activity. NOTE: Publication of this article is sponsored by the American Ophthalmological Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Gamm
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
| | - Eric Clark
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Ruchira Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
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Lessons learned from quantitative fundus autofluorescence. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 74:100774. [PMID: 31472235 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative fundus autofluorescence (qAF) is an approach that is built on a confocal scanning laser platform and used to measure the intensity of the inherent autofluorescence of retina elicited by short-wavelength (488 nm) excitation. Being non-invasive, qAF does not interrupt tissue architecture, thus allowing for structural correlations. The spectral features, cellular origin and topographic distribution of the natural autofluorescence of the fundus indicate that it is emitted from retinaldehyde-adducts that form in photoreceptor cells and accumulate, under most conditions, in retinal pigment epithelial cells. The distributions and intensities of fundus autofluorescence deviate from normal in many retinal disorders and it is widely recognized that these changing patterns can aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of retinal disease. The standardized protocol employed by qAF involves the normalization of fundus grey levels to a fluorescent reference installed in the imaging instrument. Together with corrections for magnification and anterior media absorption, this approach facilitates comparisons with serial images and images acquired within groups of patients. Here we provide a comprehensive summary of the principles and practice of qAF and we highlight recent efforts to elucidate retinal disease processes by combining qAF with multi-modal imaging.
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Lin TC, Lin YY, Hsu CC, Yang YP, Yang CH, Hwang DK, Wang CY, Liu YY, Lo WL, Chiou SH, Peng CH, Chen SJ, Chang YL. Nanomedicine-based Curcumin Approach Improved ROS Damage in Best Dystrophy-specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cell Transplant 2019; 28:1345-1357. [PMID: 31313605 PMCID: PMC6802151 DOI: 10.1177/0963689719860130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Best dystrophy (BD), also termed best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD), is a
juvenile-onset form of macular degeneration and can cause central visual loss.
Unfortunately, there is no clear definite therapy for BD or improving the visual function
on this progressive disease. The human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) system has
been recently applied as an effective tool for genetic consultation and chemical drug
screening. In this study, we developed patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells
(BD-iPSCs) from BD patient-derived dental pulp stromal cells and then differentiated
BD-iPSCs into retinal pigment epithelial cells (BD-RPEs). BD-RPEs were used as an
expandable platform for in vitro candidate drug screening. Compared with unaffected
sibling-derived iPSC-derived RPE cells (Ctrl-RPEs), BD-RPEs exhibited typical RPE-specific
markers with a lower expression of the tight junction protein ZO-1 and Bestrophin-1
(BEST1), as well as reduced phagocytic capabilities. Notably, among all candidate drugs,
curcumin was the most effective for upregulating both the BEST1 and ZO-1 genes in BD-RPEs.
Using the iPSC-based drug-screening platform, we further found that curcumin can
significantly improve the mRNA expression levels of Best gene in BD-iPSC-derived RPEs.
Importantly, we demonstrated that curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (Cur-NPs) were
efficiently internalized by BD-RPEs. The Cur-NPs-based controlled release formulation
further increased the expression of ZO-1 and Bestrophin-1, and promoted the function of
phagocytosis and voltage-dependent calcium channels in BD-iPSC-derived RPEs. We further
demonstrated that Cur-NPs enhanced the expression of antioxidant enzymes with a decrease
in intracellular ROS production and hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress.
Collectively, these data supported that Cur-NPs provide a potential cytoprotective effect
by regulating the anti-oxidative abilities of degenerated RPEs. In addition, the
application of patient-specific iPSCs provides an effective platform for drug screening
and personalized medicine in incurable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Chi Lin
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Yi-Ying Lin
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei
| | - Chih-Chen Hsu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Yi-Ping Yang
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Chang-Hao Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei
| | - De-Kuang Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei
| | - Chien-Ying Wang
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Yung-Yang Liu
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Chest, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Wen-Liang Lo
- Department of Stomatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital & Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Chi-Hsien Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital & Fu-Jen Catholic University, Taipei
| | - Shih-Jen Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei
| | - Yuh-Lih Chang
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei.,Department of Pharmacology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei
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Chen HY, Welby E, Li T, Swaroop A. Retinal disease in ciliopathies: Recent advances with a focus on stem cell-based therapies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 4:97-115. [PMID: 31763178 PMCID: PMC6839492 DOI: 10.3233/trd-190038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ciliopathies display extensive genetic and clinical heterogeneity, varying in severity, age of onset, disease progression and organ systems affected. Retinal involvement, as demonstrated by photoreceptor dysfunction or death, is a highly penetrant phenotype among a vast majority of ciliopathies. Photoreceptor cells possess a specialized and modified sensory cilium with membrane discs where efficient photon capture and ensuing signaling cascade initiate the visual process. Disruptions of cilia biogenesis and protein transport lead to impairment of photoreceptor function and eventually degeneration. Despite advances in elucidation of ciliogenesis and photoreceptor cilia defects, we have limited understanding of pathogenic mechanisms underlying retinal phenotype(s) observed in human ciliopathies. Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches offer a unique opportunity to complement studies with model organisms and examine cilia disease relevant to humans. Three-dimensional retinal organoids from iPSC lines feature laminated cytoarchitecture, apical-basal polarity and emergence of a ciliary structure, thereby permitting pathogenic modeling of human photoreceptors in vitro. Here, we review the biology of photoreceptor cilia and associated defects and discuss recent progress in evolving treatment modalities, especially using patient-derived iPSCs, for retinal ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Yu Chen
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Emily Welby
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tiansen Li
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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48
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Dalvi S, Galloway CA, Winschel L, Hashim A, Soto C, Tang C, MacDonald LA, Singh R. Environmental stress impairs photoreceptor outer segment (POS) phagocytosis and degradation and induces autofluorescent material accumulation in hiPSC-RPE cells. Cell Death Discov 2019; 5:96. [PMID: 31123602 PMCID: PMC6522536 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-019-0171-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell dysfunction is central to the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of adult blindness. Aging, the single biggest risk factor for AMD development, favors increase in RPE autofluorescent material due to accumulation of POS-digestion by-products through lysosomal dysfunction and impaired POS degradation. Apart from aging, environmental agents affect lysosomal function in multiple model systems and are implicated in AMD. Iron (Fe) overload and cigarette smoke exposure are the two environmental factors that are known to affect the lysosomal pathway and impact RPE cell health. However, the impact of Fe and cigarette smoke, on POS processing and its consequence for autofluorescent material accumulation in human RPE cells are yet to be established. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived RPE, which phagocytoses and degrades POS in culture and can be derived from control individuals (no history/susceptibility for retinal disease), provides a model system to investigate the singular effect of excess Fe and/or cigarette smoke on POS processing by RPE cells. Using at least three distinct control hiPSC lines, we show that, compared to untreated hiPSC-RPE cells, POS uptake is reduced in both Fe (ferric ammonium citrate or FAC) and FAC + CSE (cigarette smoke extract)-treated hiPSC-RPE cells. Furthermore, exposure of hiPSC-RPE cultures to FAC + CSE leads to reduced levels of active cathepsin-D (CTSD), a lysosomal enzyme involved in POS processing, and causes delayed degradation of POS. Notably, delayed degradation of POS over time (2 weeks) in hiPSC-RPE cells exposed to Fe and CSE was sufficient to increase autofluorescent material build-up in these cells. Given that inefficient POS processing-mediated autofluorescent material accumulation in RPE cells has already been linked to AMD development, our results implicate a causative role of environmental agents, like Fe and cigarette smoke, in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Dalvi
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Chad A Galloway
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,5Present Address: Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Lauren Winschel
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Ali Hashim
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Celia Soto
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Cynthia Tang
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Leslie A MacDonald
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
| | - Ruchira Singh
- 1Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,2Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA.,3UR Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Rochester, NY USA.,4Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY USA
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49
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Synchrony and asynchrony between an epigenetic clock and developmental timing. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3770. [PMID: 30842553 PMCID: PMC6403397 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39919-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic changes have been used to estimate chronological age across the lifespan, and some studies suggest that epigenetic "aging" clocks may already operate in developing tissue. To better understand the relationship between developmental stage and epigenetic age, we utilized the highly regular sequence of development found in the mammalian neural retina and a well-established epigenetic aging clock based on DNA methylation. Our results demonstrate that the epigenetic age of fetal retina is highly correlated with chronological age. We further establish that epigenetic aging progresses normally in vitro, suggesting that epigenetic aging is a property of individual tissues. This correlation is also retained in stem cell-derived retinal organoids, but is accelerated in individuals with Down syndrome, a progeroid-like condition. Overall, our results suggest that epigenetic aging begins as early as a few weeks post-conception, in fetal tissues, and the mechanisms underlying the phenomenon of epigenetic aging might be studied in developing organs.
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50
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Galloway CA, Dalvi S, Shadforth AMA, Suzuki S, Wilson M, Kuai D, Hashim A, MacDonald LA, Gamm DM, Harkin DG, Singh R. Characterization of Human iPSC-RPE on a Prosthetic Bruch's Membrane Manufactured From Silk Fibroin. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:2792-2800. [PMID: 30025113 PMCID: PMC5989661 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose RPE cell transplantation as a potential treatment for AMD has been extensively investigated; however, in AMD, ultrastructural damage affects both the RPE and its underlying matrix support, the Bruch's membrane (BrM). An RPE monolayer supported by a surrogate scaffold could thus provide a more effective approach to cell-based therapy for AMD. Toward this goal, we aimed to establish a functional human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (hiPSC)-RPE monolayer on a Bombyx mori silk fibroin (BMSF) scaffold. Methods RPE differentiated from five distinct hiPSC lines were cultured on BMSF membrane coated with extracellular matrix (ECM, COL1), and either regular tissue culture plastic or Transwell coated with ECM (LAM-TCP). Morphologic, gene and protein expression, and functional characteristics of the hiPSC-RPE cultured on different membranes were compared in longitudinal experiments spanning 1 day to ≥3 months. Results The hiPSC-RPE monolayers on ECM-coated BMSF and TCP could be maintained in culture for ≥3 months and displayed RPE-characteristic morphology, pigmentation, polarity, and expression of RPE signature genes and proteins. Furthermore, hiPSC-RPE on both ECM-coated BMSF and TCP displayed robust expression and secretion of several basement membrane proteins. Importantly, hiPSC-RPE cells on COL1-BMSF and LAM-TCP showed similar efficacy in the phagocytosis and degradation of photoreceptor outer segments. Conclusions A biomaterial scaffold manufactured from silk fibroin supports the maturation and long-term survival of a functional hiPSC-RPE monolayer. This has significant implications for both in vitro disease modeling and in vivo cell replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad A Galloway
- Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Sonal Dalvi
- Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Audra M A Shadforth
- Queensland Eye Institute, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shuko Suzuki
- Queensland Eye Institute, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Molly Wilson
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - David Kuai
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Ali Hashim
- Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - Leslie A MacDonald
- Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - David M Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States.,McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Damien G Harkin
- Queensland Eye Institute, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ruchira Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology (Flaum Eye Institute), University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, United States.,Univeristy of Rochester Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Rochester, New York, United States
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