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Chen F, Li C, Liu J, Dong Y, Chen J, Zhou Q. Crosslinked modified decellularized rabbit conjunctival stroma for reconstruction of tissue-engineered conjunctiva in vitro. Biomed Mater 2023; 19:015001. [PMID: 37917998 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad08e0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Conjunctival reconstruction is an essential part of ocular surface restoration, especially in severe conjunctival disorders. Decellularized conjunctival tissues have been used in tissue engineering. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of constructing tissue-engineered conjunctiva using stem cell (human amniotic epithelial cells, hAECs), and cross-linked modified decellularized rabbit conjunctival stroma (DRCS-Asp-hEGF), and decellularized rabbit conjunctiva stroma (DRCS). With phospholipase A2 and sodium dodecyl, DRCS were nearly DNA-free, structurally intact and showed no cytotoxic effectsin vitro, as confirmed by DNA quantification, histology, and immunofluorescence. The results of Fourier transform infrared, Alcian blue staining and human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) release assays showed that DRCS-Asp-hEGF was successfully prepared via crosslinking with aspartic acid (Asp) and modified by hEGF at pH 7.7. The hAECs were positive for octamer-binding transcription factor-4 and ABCG2 cell markers. The hAECs were directly placed on the DRCS and DRCS-Asp-hEGF for five days respectively. Tissue-engineered conjunctiva was constructedin vitrofor five days, and the fluorescence staining results showed that hAECs grew in monolayers on DRCS-Asp-hEGF and DRCS. Flow cytometry results showed that compared with DRCS, the number of apoptotic cells stained in DRCS-Asp-hEGF was small, 86.70 ± 0.79% of the cells survived, and 87.59 ± 1.43% of the cells were in the G1 phase of DNA synthesis. Electron microscopy results showed that desmosome junction structures, which were similar to the native conjunctival tissue, were formed between cells and the matrix in the DRCS-Asp-hEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyuan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoqun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuying Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, People's Republic of China
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2
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Xu L, Wang G, Shi R, Zeng B, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Dong N, Wang S, Li C. A cocktail of small molecules maintains the stemness and differentiation potential of conjunctival epithelial cells. Ocul Surf 2023; 30:107-118. [PMID: 37634570 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The conjunctival epithelial cells cultured with bovine serum or feeder cells were not suitable for clinical application. Therefore, we developed a novel serum-free and feeder cell-free culture system containing only a cocktail of three chemicals (3C) to expand the conjunctival epithelial cells. METHODS The cell proliferative ability was evaluated by counting, crystal violet staining and Ki67 immunostaining. Co-staining of K7 and MUC5AC was performed to identify goblet cells. PAS staining was used to assess the ability of cells to synthesis and secrete glycoproteins. In vivo, eye drops containing 3C was administered to verify the role of 3C in the mouse conjunctival injury model. PAS, HE and immunofluorescence staining were performed to show conjunctival epithelial repair. RESULTS Compared with other small molecule groups and the serum group, the cells in 3C group showed superior morphology and proliferative ability. Meanwhile, 3C maintained the well-proliferative capacity of cells even after fifth passage. The 3C group also exhibited more K7 and MUC5AC double positive cells, and the PAS staining positive areas were present in both the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix. The cell sheets treated with 3C in air-lifted culture were obviously stratified. In vivo, more goblet cells in the conjunctival epithelium were observed in the 3C group. CONCLUSION Overall, our culture system can expand the conjunctival epithelial cells and retain their potential to differentiate into mature goblet cells, which provided a promising source of seed cells for conjunctival reconstruction. Furthermore, this system provides new insights for the clinical treatment of ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130041, China
| | - Guoliang Wang
- Huaxia Eye Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Ruize Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130041, China
| | - Baihui Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130041, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130041, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China
| | - Nuo Dong
- Huaxia Eye Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China; Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China.
| | - Shurong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130041, China.
| | - Cheng Li
- Huaxia Eye Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China; Eye Institute & Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Xiamen, Fujian, 361102, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
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3
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Yan Y, Ji Q, Fu R, Liu C, Yang J, Yin X, Li Q, Huang R. Biomaterials and tissue engineering strategies for posterior lamellar eyelid reconstruction: Replacement or regeneration? Bioeng Transl Med 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Yan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Qiumei Ji
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Rao Fu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Chuanqi Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Xiya Yin
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery West China Hospital, Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
| | - Ru‐Lin Huang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai China
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Barbaro V, Orvieto A, Alvisi G, Bertolin M, Bonelli F, Liehr T, Harutyunyan T, Kankel S, Joksic G, Ferrari S, Daniele E, Ponzin D, Bettio D, Salviati L, Di Iorio E. Analysis and pharmacological modulation of senescence in human epithelial stem cells. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:3977-3994. [PMID: 35706382 PMCID: PMC9279594 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17434] [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: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epithelial stem cells (ESCs) are characterized by long‐term regenerative properties, much dependent on the tissue of origin and varying during their lifespan. We analysed such variables in cultures of ESCs isolated from the skin, conjunctiva, limbus and oral mucosa of healthy donors and patients affected by ectrodactyly‐ectodermal dysplasia‐clefting syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the p63 gene. We cultured cells until exhaustion in the presence or in the absence of DAPT (γ‐secretase inhibitor; N‐[N‐(3, 5‐difluorophenacetyl)‐L‐alanyl]‐S‐phenylglycine T‐butyl ester). All cells were able to differentiate in vitro but exhibited variable self‐renewal potential. In particular, cells carrying p63 mutations stopped prematurely, compared with controls. Importantly, administration of DAPT significantly extended the replicative properties of all stem cells under examination. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that distinct sets of genes were up‐ or down‐regulated during their lifetime, thus allowing to identify druggable gene networks and off‐the‐shelf compounds potentially dealing with epithelial stem cell senescence. These data will expand our knowledge on the genetic bases of senescence and potentially pave the way to the pharmacological modulation of ageing in epithelial stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Orvieto
- Department of Computer Science, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gualtiero Alvisi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | | | - Thomas Liehr
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, Jena, Germany
| | - Tigran Harutyunyan
- Department of Genetics and Cytology, Yerevan State University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Stefanie Kankel
- Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Human Genetics, Jena, Germany
| | - Gordana Joksic
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Vinča Institue of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, Vinča, Serbia
| | | | - Elena Daniele
- Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Venice, Italy
| | - Diego Ponzin
- Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Venice, Italy
| | - Daniela Bettio
- Clinical Genetics Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Leonardo Salviati
- Clinical Genetics Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Department of Women and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Enzo Di Iorio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Clinical Genetics Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
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5
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Pedrotti E, Bertolin M, Fasolo A, Bonacci E, Bosello F, Ponzin D, Marchini G. Autologous simple conjunctival epithelial transplantation for primary pterygium. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 42:3673-3680. [PMID: 35612687 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02364-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the feasibility of a new method of conjunctival transplantation to achieve recovery of the normal conjunctival epithelium over the bare sclera after pterygium excision and prevent its recurrence. METHODS After excision of the primary pterygium, we performed simple conjunctival epithelial transplantation (SCET) in which we glued an amniotic membrane patch pre-loaded with tiny autologous conjunctival tissue fragments over the scleral defect. Slit-lamp evaluation was performed at 2 and 7-10 days, and then at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, together with confocal microscopy at 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS Surgical excision and SCET for nasal primary pterygium were performed in 6 eyes (6 patients). No graft detachment occurred. An inflammatory granuloma was excised without sequelae in one patient 2 months after surgery. No signs of recurrence or sight-threatening complications were recorded at 12 months, and in vivo confocal microscopy showed progressive expansion of the conjunctival cell population and formation of a clear corneal-conjunctival transition. CONCLUSIONS SCET takes advantage of the ability of the amniotic membrane and conjunctival cells to renew. Outcomes after SCET are comparable to conventional conjunctival flap surgery and can be achieved in less surgical time and with less donor tissue to be removed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Pedrotti
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134, Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marina Bertolin
- Research Unit, The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation (Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto), Pad. G. Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, 30174, Venezia, Italy
| | - Adriano Fasolo
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134, Verona, Verona, Italy. .,Research Unit, The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation (Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto), Pad. G. Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, 30174, Venezia, Italy.
| | - Erika Bonacci
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134, Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Bosello
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134, Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Diego Ponzin
- Research Unit, The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation (Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto), Pad. G. Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, 30174, Venezia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Marchini
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, P.le L.A. Scuro 1, 37134, Verona, Verona, Italy
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Zhong Z, Wang J, Tian J, Deng X, Balayan A, Sun Y, Xiang Y, Guan J, Schimelman J, Hwang H, You S, Wu X, Ma C, Shi X, Yao E, Deng SX, Chen S. Rapid 3D bioprinting of a multicellular model recapitulating pterygium microenvironment. Biomaterials 2022; 282:121391. [PMID: 35101743 PMCID: PMC10162446 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Pterygium is an ocular surface disorder with high prevalence that can lead to vision impairment. As a pathological outgrowth of conjunctiva, pterygium involves neovascularization and chronic inflammation. Here, we developed a 3D multicellular in vitro pterygium model using a digital light processing (DLP)-based 3D bioprinting platform with human conjunctival stem cells (hCjSCs). A novel feeder-free culture system was adopted and efficiently expanded the primary hCjSCs with homogeneity, stemness and differentiation potency. The DLP-based 3D bioprinting method was able to fabricate hydrogel scaffolds that support the viability and biological integrity of the encapsulated hCjSCs. The bioprinted 3D pterygium model consisted of hCjSCs, immune cells, and vascular cells to recapitulate the disease microenvironment. Transcriptomic analysis using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) identified a distinct profile correlated to inflammation response, angiogenesis, and epithelial mesenchymal transition in the bioprinted 3D pterygium model. In addition, the pterygium signatures and disease relevance of the bioprinted model were validated with the public RNA-seq data from patient-derived pterygium tissues. By integrating the stem cell technology with 3D bioprinting, this is the first reported 3D in vitro disease model for pterygium that can be utilized for future studies towards personalized medicine and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhong
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Xiaoqian Deng
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Alis Balayan
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yazhi Sun
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yi Xiang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jiaao Guan
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jacob Schimelman
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Henry Hwang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Shangting You
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Xiaokang Wu
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Chao Ma
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Xiaoao Shi
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Emmie Yao
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Shaochen Chen
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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7
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Argüeso P. Human ocular mucins: The endowed guardians of sight. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114074. [PMID: 34875287 PMCID: PMC8724396 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mucins are an ancient group of glycoproteins that provide viscoelastic, lubricating and hydration properties to fluids bathing wet surfaced epithelia. They are involved in the protection of underlying tissues by forming a barrier with selective permeability properties. The expression, processing and spatial distribution of mucins are often determined by organ-specific requirements that in the eye involve protecting against environmental insult while allowing the passage of light. The human ocular surface epithelia have evolved to produce an extremely thin and watery tear film containing a distinct soluble mucin product secreted by goblet cells outside the visual axis. The adaptation to the ocular environment is notably evidenced by the significant contribution of transmembrane mucins to the tear film, where they can occupy up to one-quarter of its total thickness. This article reviews the tissue-specific properties of human ocular mucins, methods of isolation and detection, and current approaches to model mucin systems recapitulating the human ocular surface mucosa. This knowledge forms the fundamental basis to develop applications with a promising biological and clinical impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Argüeso
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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8
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The Communication between Ocular Surface and Nasal Epithelia in 3D Cell Culture Technology for Translational Research: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312994. [PMID: 34884799 PMCID: PMC8657734 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312994] [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: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of knowledge regarding the connection between the ocular and nasal epithelia. This narrative review focuses on conjunctival, corneal, ultrastructural corneal stroma, and nasal epithelia as well as an introduction into their interconnections. We describe in detail the morphology and physiology of the ocular surface, the nasolacrimal ducts, and the nasal cavity. This knowledge provides a basis for functional studies and the development of relevant cell culture models that can be used to investigate the pathogenesis of diseases related to these complex structures. Moreover, we also provide a state-of-the-art overview regarding the development of 3D culture models, which allow for addressing research questions in models resembling the in vivo situation. In particular, we give an overview of the current developments of corneal 3D and organoid models, as well as 3D cell culture models of epithelia with goblet cells (conjunctiva and nasal cavity). The benefits and shortcomings of these cell culture models are discussed. As examples for pathogens related to ocular and nasal epithelia, we discuss infections caused by adenovirus and measles virus. In addition to pathogens, also external triggers such as allergens can cause rhinoconjunctivitis. These diseases exemplify the interconnections between the ocular surface and nasal epithelia in a molecular and clinical context. With a final translational section on optical coherence tomography (OCT), we provide an overview about the applicability of this technique in basic research and clinical ophthalmology. The techniques presented herein will be instrumental in further elucidating the functional interrelations and crosstalk between ocular and nasal epithelia.
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Latta L, Figueiredo FC, Ashery-Padan R, Collinson JM, Daniels J, Ferrari S, Szentmáry N, Solá S, Shalom-Feuerstein R, Lako M, Xapelli S, Aberdam D, Lagali N. Pathophysiology of aniridia-associated keratopathy: Developmental aspects and unanswered questions. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:245-266. [PMID: 34520870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Aniridia, a rare congenital disease, is often characterized by a progressive, pronounced limbal insufficiency and ocular surface pathology termed aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). Due to the characteristics of AAK and its bilateral nature, clinical management is challenging and complicated by the multiple coexisting ocular and systemic morbidities in aniridia. Although it is primarily assumed that AAK originates from a congenital limbal stem cell deficiency, in recent years AAK and its pathogenesis has been questioned in the light of new evidence and a refined understanding of ocular development and the biology of limbal stem cells (LSCs) and their niche. Here, by consolidating and comparing the latest clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss key unanswered questions regarding ocular developmental aspects crucial to AAK. We also highlight hypotheses on the potential role of LSCs and the ocular surface microenvironment in AAK. The insights thus gained lead to a greater appreciation for the role of developmental and cellular processes in the emergence of AAK. They also highlight areas for future research to enable a deeper understanding of aniridia, and thereby the potential to develop new treatments for this rare but blinding ocular surface disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Latta
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - F C Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - R Ashery-Padan
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - J M Collinson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - J Daniels
- Cells for Sight, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - S Ferrari
- The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy
| | - N Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - S Solá
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Shalom-Feuerstein
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - M Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - S Xapelli
- Instituto Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - D Aberdam
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM U1138, Team 17, France; Université de Paris, 75006, Paris, France.
| | - N Lagali
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway.
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Diebold Y, García-Posadas L. Is the Conjunctiva a Potential Target for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products? Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081140. [PMID: 34452098 PMCID: PMC8402183 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081140] [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: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The conjunctiva is a complex ocular tissue that provides mechanical, sensory, and immune protection for the ocular surface. It is affected by many diseases through different pathological mechanisms. If a disease is not treated and conjunctival function is not fully restored, the whole ocular surface and, therefore, sight is at risk. Different therapeutic approaches have been proposed, but there are still unsolved conjunctival alterations that require more sophisticated therapeutic options. Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) comprise a wide range of products that includes cell therapy, tissue engineering, and gene therapy. To the best of our knowledge, there is no commercialized ATMP specifically for conjunctival treatment yet. However, the conjunctiva can be a potential target for ATMPs for different reasons. In this review, we provide an overview of the advances in experimental phases of potential ATMPs that primarily target the conjunctiva. Important advances have been achieved through the techniques of cell therapy and tissue engineering, whereas the use of gene therapy in the conjunctiva is still marginal. Undoubtedly, future research in this field will lead to achieving commercially available ATMPs for the conjunctiva, which may provide better treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Diebold
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura García-Posadas
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
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11
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Bertolin M, Barbaro V, Breda C, Ferrari S, Marchini G, Pedrotti E, Ferrari B, Diego P, Fasolo A. In vitro establishment, validation and characterisation of conjunctival epithelium outgrowth using tissue fragments and amniotic membrane. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:440-444. [PMID: 34108226 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-318513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To set up the in vitro conditions for renewal of the conjunctival epithelium using healthy fragments of conjunctival tissue glued over an amniotic membrane. METHODS We evaluated the capability of conjunctival tissue fragments to generate conjunctival cell outgrowth after seeding them onto amniotic membrane and culture plates; we then assessed conjunctival molecular marker expression by immunofluorescence. We also evaluated the efficiency of glueing the fragments over the amniotic membrane to determine the best setting and the feasibility of shipping preloaded amniotic membranes. RESULTS Epithelial outgrowth was detected in 65%-80% of conjunctival fragments starting 48-72 hours after glueing, without major differences between type of membrane preparation and fragment size. Within 6-13 days, a full epithelium covered the surface of the amniotic membrane. Specific marker expression (conjunctival epithelium, Muc1, K19, K13; stemness, p63; tight junctions, ZO-1) was detected. Results of the shipping test showed that only 31% of the fragments were still glued over the epithelial side of the membrane within 24 hours compared to more than 90% of fragments stayed attached in the remaining conditions. CONCLUSION The in vitro regeneration of conjunctival epithelium following outgrowth from conjunctival tissue fragments glued over an amniotic membrane may offer a viable strategy to renew the epithelium in vivo once applied over the ocular surface at the recipient site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Bertolin
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Vanessa Barbaro
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Claudia Breda
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Giorgio Marchini
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Università degli Studi di Verona, Verona, Veneto, Italy
| | - Emilio Pedrotti
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Università degli Studi di Verona, Verona, Veneto, Italy
| | - Barbara Ferrari
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Ponzin Diego
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy
| | - Adriano Fasolo
- Research Unit, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto, Mestre, Veneto, Italy.,Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, Università degli Studi di Verona, Verona, Veneto, Italy
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12
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van Velthoven AJ, Bertolin M, Barbaro V, Sthijns MM, Nuijts RM, LaPointe VL, Dickman MM, Ferrari S. Increased Cell Survival of Human Primary Conjunctival Stem Cells in Dimethyl Sulfoxide-Based Cryopreservation Media. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:67-72. [PMID: 33185460 PMCID: PMC7892306 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycerol and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) are widely used cryoprotectants for freezing human cell cultures. During the manufacturing process of ocular stem cell-based autographs, ex vivo cultivated ocular cells are cryopreserved for quality control purposes in accordance with regulatory requirements. The efficiency of the cryopreservation methods is limited by their effect on cell survival and quality. We compared two cryopreservation reagents, glycerol and DMSO, for their influence on the survival and quality of human primary conjunctival cultures. We found increased cell viability after cryopreservation in DMSO compared to cryopreservation in glycerol. The clonogenic and proliferative capacity was unaffected by the cryopreservation reagents, as shown by the colony forming efficiency and cumulative cell doubling. Importantly, the percentage of p63α- and keratin 19 (K19)-positive cells following cryopreservation in DMSO or glycerol was comparable. Taken together, our results demonstrate that cryopreservation in DMSO improves cell survival compared to cryopreservation in glycerol, with no subsequent effect on cell proliferative-, clonogenic-, or differentiation capacity. Therefore, we advise the use of a 10% DMSO-based cryopreservation medium for the cryopreservation of human primary conjunctival cells, as it will improve the number of cells available for the manufacturing of conjunctival stem cell-based autografts for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianne J.H. van Velthoven
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Mireille M.J.P.E. Sthijns
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rudy M.M.A. Nuijts
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Vanessa L.S. LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M. Dickman
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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13
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Zhong Z, Deng X, Wang P, Yu C, Kiratitanaporn W, Wu X, Schimelman J, Tang M, Balayan A, Yao E, Tian J, Chen L, Zhang K, Chen S. Rapid bioprinting of conjunctival stem cell micro-constructs for subconjunctival ocular injection. Biomaterials 2021; 267:120462. [PMID: 33129190 PMCID: PMC7719077 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ocular surface diseases including conjunctival disorders are multifactorial progressive conditions that can severely affect vision and quality of life. In recent years, stem cell therapies based on conjunctival stem cells (CjSCs) have become a potential solution for treating ocular surface diseases. However, neither an efficient culture of CjSCs nor the development of a minimally invasive ocular surface CjSC transplantation therapy has been reported. Here, we developed a robust in vitro expansion method for primary rabbit-derived CjSCs and applied digital light processing (DLP)-based bioprinting to produce CjSC-loaded hydrogel micro-constructs for injectable delivery. Expansion medium containing small molecule cocktail generated fast dividing and highly homogenous CjSCs for more than 10 passages in feeder-free culture. Bioprinted hydrogel micro-constructs with tunable mechanical properties enabled the 3D culture of CjSCs while supporting viability, stem cell phenotype, and differentiation potency into conjunctival goblet cells. These hydrogel micro-constructs were well-suited for scalable dynamic suspension culture of CjSCs and were successfully delivered to the bulbar conjunctival epithelium via minimally invasive subconjunctival injection. This work integrates novel cell culture strategies with bioprinting to develop a clinically relevant injectable-delivery approach for CjSCs towards the stem cell therapies for the treatment of ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhong
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Xiaoqian Deng
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Pengrui Wang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Claire Yu
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Wisarut Kiratitanaporn
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Xiaokang Wu
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Jacob Schimelman
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Min Tang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Alis Balayan
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Emmie Yao
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Luwen Chen
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Shaochen Chen
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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14
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García-Posadas L, Diebold Y. Three-Dimensional Human Cell Culture Models to Study the Pathophysiology of the Anterior Eye. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1215. [PMID: 33333869 PMCID: PMC7765302 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the establishment of complex three-dimensional (3D) models of tissues has allowed researchers to perform high-quality studies and to not only advance knowledge of the physiology of these tissues but also mimic pathological conditions to test novel therapeutic strategies. The main advantage of 3D models is that they recapitulate the spatial architecture of tissues and thereby provide more physiologically relevant information. The eye is an extremely complex organ that comprises a large variety of highly heterogeneous tissues that are divided into two asymmetrical portions: the anterior and posterior segments. The anterior segment consists of the cornea, conjunctiva, iris, ciliary body, sclera, aqueous humor, and the lens. Different diseases in these tissues can have devastating effects. To study these pathologies and develop new treatments, the use of cell culture models is instrumental, and the better the model, the more relevant the results. Thus, the development of sophisticated 3D models of ocular tissues is a significant challenge with enormous potential. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the development of 3D in vitro models of the anterior segment of the eye, with a special focus on those that use human primary cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura García-Posadas
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Yolanda Diebold
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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15
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A new standardized immunofluorescence method for potency quantification (SMPQ) of human conjunctival cell cultures. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 22:145-159. [PMID: 33051810 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-020-09874-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to set up a standardized and reproducible method to determine the potency (= stem cell content) of human conjunctival cell cultures by means of immunofluorescence-based analyses. This will help the development of new Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) to use in future cell therapy clinical studies when fewer cells are available to perform the quality controls. To achieve this purpose, a reference standard was investigated and the expression levels of ΔNp63α (considered as a marker of conjunctival stem cells) was correlated to cell size. The limbal hTERT cells were used as reference standard to define the expression value of ΔNp63α. The mean intensity value of limbal hTERT cells ranging between 15 and 20 µm in diameter was used to distinguish between ΔNp63α bright and not bright cells. As ΔNp63α bright expression was mainly seen in the smaller cell size group (10-15 µm), we defined as conjunctival stem cells (= potency) those cells which were bright and with sizes between 10 and 15 µm. Assays on cells from clonal analyses were used to validate the method, as they do allow to observe a decrease in potency (Holoclones > Meroclones > Paraclones). The stem cell content of conjunctival grafts was found to be 11.3% ± 5.0 compared to 21.9% ± 0.6, 9.0% ± 8.1 and 0% from Holoclones, Meroclones and Paraclones, respectively. This new method, here named as Standardized Method for Potency Quantification, will allow to detect the potency in conjunctival cell cultures, thus obtaining a quality control assay responding to the GMP standards required for ATMP release.
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16
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Swamynathan SK, Wells A. Conjunctival goblet cells: Ocular surface functions, disorders that affect them, and the potential for their regeneration. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:19-26. [PMID: 31734511 PMCID: PMC7004882 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Conjunctival goblet cells (CGCs) are specialized cells that produce and secrete soluble mucins to the tear film that bathes the ocular surface. CGC numbers and functions are affected in various ocular surface diseases including dry eye disease with diverse etiologies. In this review we will (i) summarize the important functions of CGCs in ocular surface health, (ii) describe the ocular surface diseases that affect CGC numbers and function, (iii) provide an update on recent research outcomes that elucidate CGC differentiation, gene expression and functions, and (iv) present evidence in support of the prediction that restoring CGC numbers and/or functions is a viable strategy for alleviating ocular surface disorders that impact the CGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivalingappa K Swamynathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Alan Wells
- McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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