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Zhou X, Hou G, Wang X, Peng Z, Yin X, Yang J, Wang S, He Y, Wang Y, Sui J, Qiang W, Guo H, Wang Y, Lin L, Shi B, He M. Metabolomic studies reveal and validate potential biomarkers of diabetic retinopathy in two Chinese datasets with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2024; 23:439. [PMID: 39696333 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-024-02535-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and causes vision impairment and blindness. The presence of major risk factors for DR, such as high levels of HbA1c, does not predict all DR pathogenesis in the clinic, which suggests that uncovering the underlying mechanisms and identifying novel markers are needed. Previous evidence has shown that the serum metabolic signature of DR is unique and detectable compared with that of diabetes mellitus (DM). Here, we aimed to identify serum metabolites as reliable biomarkers for the presence of DR in type 2 DM (T2DM) patients. METHODS We performed untargeted and targeted metabolomic studies using liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC‒MS) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) methods on the serum samples of T2DM patients. For the discovery dataset, 39 DR patients and 39 non-DR (NDR) patients were included. For the validation dataset, 95 DR patients and 95 non-DR (NDR) patients were included. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate the discriminating power of the metabolites. Binary logistic regression models were fit to evaluate the associations of metabolite peak areas or neurotransmitter concentrations with the presence of DR and adjusted for known risk factors. RESULTS A total of 7123 metabolites were tested. The 39 DR patients had a mean age of 56 years with an average diabetes duration of 12 years, and the 39 NDR patients had a mean age of 57 years with an average diabetes duration of 11 years. Nine serum candidate markers were further identified. Six out of nine markers were associated with DR after we adjusted for covariates, including blood pressure, HbA1c, diabetes duration, fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, eGFR etc. Among them, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and L-tyrosine were validated in an independent, risk factor-matched sample set. The serum L-tyrosine concentration was decreased in DR group by 47% (-0.22 ± 0.87 vs. 0.48 ± 1.05, P < 0.001), of which the cutoff value was 0.10 mg/ml, with 86% sensitivity and 40% specificity (AUC = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.54-0.70, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Low levels of circulating L-Tyrosine indicate retinopathy occurrence in T2DM population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingchen Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Guixue Hou
- BGI-SHENZHEN, Building NO.7, BGI Park, No. 21 Hongan 3rd Street, Yantian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518083, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wang
- Med-X Institute, Center for Immunological and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an JiaoTong university, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyi Peng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Yin
- Chengdu HuiXin Life Technology, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610091, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
- Med-X Institute, Center for Immunological and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an JiaoTong university, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Wang
- Med-X Institute, Center for Immunological and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an JiaoTong university, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Yayi He
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Sui
- Department of Endocrinology and International Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Qiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
- Med-X Institute, Center for Immunological and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an JiaoTong university, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Lin
- BGI-SHENZHEN, Building NO.7, BGI Park, No. 21 Hongan 3rd Street, Yantian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518083, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bingyin Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.
| | - Mingqian He
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, No.277, West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.
- Med-X Institute, Center for Immunological and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an JiaoTong University, Xi'an JiaoTong university, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.
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Kovács-Valasek A, Rák T, Pöstyéni E, Csutak A, Gábriel R. Three Major Causes of Metabolic Retinal Degenerations and Three Ways to Avoid Them. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108728. [PMID: 37240082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
An imbalance of homeostasis in the retina leads to neuron loss and this eventually results in a deterioration of vision. If the stress threshold is exceeded, different protective/survival mechanisms are activated. Numerous key molecular actors contribute to prevalent metabolically induced retinal diseases-the three major challenges are age-related alterations, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These diseases have complex dysregulation of glucose-, lipid-, amino acid or purine metabolism. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on possible ways of preventing or circumventing retinal degeneration by available methods. We intend to provide a unified background, common prevention and treatment rationale for these disorders and identify the mechanisms through which these actions protect the retina. We suggest a role for herbal medicines, internal neuroprotective substances and synthetic drugs targeting four processes: parainflammation and/or glial cell activation, ischemia and related reactive oxygen species and vascular endothelial growth factor accumulation, apoptosis and/or autophagy of nerve cells and an elevation of ocular perfusion pressure and/or intraocular pressure. We conclude that in order to achieve substantial preventive or therapeutic effects, at least two of the mentioned pathways should be targeted synergistically. A repositioning of some drugs is considered to use them for the cure of the other related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Rák
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienne Csutak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Liu W, Luo Z, Zhang L, Wang Y, Yang J, You D, Cao X, Yang W. hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) in diabetic retinopathy: diagnosis, prediction and linking a new therapeutic target. Acta Diabetol 2023; 60:929-942. [PMID: 37002321 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-023-02077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Growing evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial in controlling how diabetic retinopathy (DR) develops. We intend to mine miRNAs with diagnostic and predictive value for DR and to investigate new drug therapeutic targets. METHODS After performing a differential analysis on the miRNA and mRNA datasets for DR and neovascularization (NEO), miRNA-mRNA networks were created. Combine the results of enrichment analysis, Protein-Protein Interaction Networks (PPI), and Cytoscape to identify key miRNAs. DrugBank was used to find drugs that interacted with transcription factors (TF) predicted by TransmiR. Finally, whole blood and clinical data were collected from 58 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and RT-qPCR, logistic analysis, and ROC were used to verify the value of key miRNAs. RESULTS Differential analysis indicated the presence of genes and miRNAs that co-regulate DR and NEO. Enrichment analysis showed that key genes are inextricably linked to neovascularization. Combining the results of PPI and Cytoscape identified four key miRNAs, namely hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p). RT-qPCR, logistic, and ROC results showed that decreased expression levels of hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) signal the risk of evolution to DR in T2DM patients. Finally, we constructed a TF-miRNA network to find the 15 TFs and the 35 drugs that interact with these TFs. CONCLUSION hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) in whole blood are protective factors for DR as novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prediction. In addition, our research provides new drug directions for the treatment of DR, such as Diosmin, Atorvastatin, and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijun Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No.295 Xichang Road, Wuhua Districte, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhanqing Luo
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Lihuan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Yutao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiamei Yang
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Dingyun You
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
| | - Xue Cao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
| | - Weimin Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, No. 1168, Chunrong West Road, Yuhua Street, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
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Southey BR, Rodriguez-Zas SL. Alternative Splicing of Neuropeptide Prohormone and Receptor Genes Associated with Pain Sensitivity Was Detected with Zero-Inflated Models. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040877. [PMID: 35453627 PMCID: PMC9031102 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is often accompanied by exacerbated sensitivity to stimuli and pain associated with alternative splicing of genes in signaling pathways. Complementary analyses of alternative splicing of neuropeptide prohormone and receptor genes involved in cell–cell communication in the trigeminal ganglia and nucleus accumbens regions of mice presenting nitroglycerin-elicited hypersensitivity and control mice were conducted. De novo sequence assembly detected 540 isoforms from 168 neuropeptide prohormone and receptor genes. A zero-inflated negative binomial model that accommodates for potential excess of zero isoform counts enabled the detection of 27, 202, and 12 differentially expressed isoforms associated with hypersensitivity, regions, and the interaction between hypersensitivity and regions, respectively. Skipped exons and alternative 3′ splice sites were the most frequent splicing events detected in the genes studied. Significant differential splicing associated with hypersensitivity was identified in CALCA and VGF neuropeptide prohormone genes and ADCYAP1R1, CRHR2, and IGF1R neuropeptide receptor genes. The prevalent region effect on differential isoform levels (202 isoforms) and alternative splicing (82 events) were consistent with the distinct splicing known to differentiate central nervous structures. Our findings highlight the changes in alternative splicing in neuropeptide prohormone and receptor genes associated with hypersensitivity to pain and the necessity to target isoform profiles for enhanced understanding and treatment of associated disorders such as migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce R. Southey
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Sandra L. Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Department of Statistics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Ou K, Li Y, Liu L, Li H, Cox K, Wu J, Liu J, Dick AD. Recent developments of neuroprotective agents for degenerative retinal disorders. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:1919-1928. [PMID: 35142668 PMCID: PMC8848613 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.335140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a debilitating ocular complication characterized by the progressive loss of photoreceptors and other retinal neurons, which are caused by a group of retinal diseases affecting various age groups, and increasingly prevalent in the elderly. Age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma are among the most common complex degenerative retinal disorders, posing significant public health problems worldwide largely due to the aging society and the lack of effective therapeutics. Whilst pathoetiologies vary, if left untreated, loss of retinal neurons can result in an acquired degeneration and ultimately severe visual impairment. Irrespective of underlined etiology, loss of neurons and supporting cells including retinal pigment epithelium, microvascular endothelium, and glia, converges as the common endpoint of retinal degeneration and therefore discovery or repurposing of therapies to protect retinal neurons directly or indirectly are under intensive investigation. This review overviews recent developments of potential neuroprotectants including neuropeptides, exosomes, mitochondrial-derived peptides, complement inhibitors, senolytics, autophagy enhancers and antioxidants either still experimentally or in clinical trials. Effective treatments that possess direct or indirect neuroprotective properties would significantly lift the burden of visual handicap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kepeng Ou
- College of Pharmacy, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Targeted and Innovative Therapeutics, IATTI, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, China; Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Youjian Li
- College of Pharmacy, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Targeted and Innovative Therapeutics, IATTI, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, China; Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Ling Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yongchuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yongchuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Katherine Cox
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jiahui Wu
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew D Dick
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London; National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
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Kovács-Valasek A, Pöstyéni E, Dénes V, Mester A, Sétáló G, Gábriel R. Age-Related Alterations of Proteins in Albino Wistar Rat Retina. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 210:135-150. [PMID: 34218223 DOI: 10.1159/000515447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Imbalance of homeostasis causes permanent changes in the body with time. The central nervous system is especially prone to these changes since it possesses limited regenerative capacity. In the retina, neurons are damaged during the aging process, and this eventually leads to deterioration of vision. In our 2-year-long study, we examined genetically closely related rat individuals to disclose the hidden retinal causes of age-associated visual dysfunction. Morphometric analysis showed significant reduction of the retina thickness with aging, particularly that of the inner plexiform layer. To reveal changes between the age groups, we used immunohistochemistry against vesicular glutamate transporter 1 protein for photoreceptor and bipolar cell terminals, Brn3a for ganglion cells, calbindin 28 kDa for horizontal cells, parvalbumin for AII amacrines, protein kinase Cα for rod bipolar cells, tyrosine hydroxylase for dopaminergic cells, glial fibrillary acidic protein for glial cells, and peanut-agglutinin labeling for cones. The most significant decrease was observed in the density of photoreceptor and the ganglion cells in the aging process. By using immunocytochemistry and western blot technique, we observed that calbindin and vesicular glutamate transporter 1 protein staining do not change much with aging; tyrosine hydroxylase, parvalbumin and calretinin showed the highest immunoreactivity during the midlife period. Most interestingly, the level of glial fibrillary acidic protein also changes similarly to the previously named markers. Our results provide further evidence that protein content is modified at least in some cell populations of the rat retina, and the number of retinal cells declined with aging. We conclude that senescence alone may cause structural and functional damage in the retinal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Dénes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Mester
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - György Sétáló
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Róbert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Pöstyéni E, Kovács-Valasek A, Dénes V, Mester A, Sétáló G, Gábriel R. PACAP for Retinal Health: Model for Cellular Aging and Rescue. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010444. [PMID: 33466261 PMCID: PMC7796228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal aging is the result of accumulating molecular and cellular damage with a manifest decline in visual functions. Somatostatin (SST) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) have been implicated in neuroprotection through regulating disparate aspects of neuronal activity (survival, proliferation and renewal). The aim of the present study was to validate a transgenic model for SST-expressing amacrine cells and to investigate the chronic effect of PACAP on the aging of SSTergic and dopaminergic cells of the retina. SST-tdTomato transgenic mice that were 6, 12 and 18 months old were treated intravitreally with 100 pmol of PACAP every 3 months. The density of SST and dopaminergic amacrine cells was assessed in whole-mounted retinas. Cells displaying the transgenic red fluorescence were identified as SST-immunopositive amacrine cells. By comparing the three age groups. PACAP treatment was shown to induce a moderate elevation of cell densities in both the SST and dopaminergic cell populations in the 12- and 18-month-old animals. By contrast, the control untreated and saline-treated retinas showed a minor cell loss. In conclusion, we report a reliable transgenic model for examining SSTergic amacrine cells. The fundamental novelty of this study is that PACAP could increase the cell density in matured retinal tissue, anticipating new therapeutic potential in age-related pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etelka Pöstyéni
- Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.P.); (A.K.-V.); (V.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.P.); (A.K.-V.); (V.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Viktória Dénes
- Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.P.); (A.K.-V.); (V.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Adrienn Mester
- Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.P.); (A.K.-V.); (V.D.); (A.M.)
| | - György Sétáló
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
- János Szenthágotai Research Centre, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Róbert Gábriel
- Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.P.); (A.K.-V.); (V.D.); (A.M.)
- János Szenthágotai Research Centre, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Correspondence:
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D’Amico AG, Maugeri G, Musumeci G, Reglodi D, D’Agata V. PACAP and NAP: Effect of Two Functionally Related Peptides in Diabetic Retinopathy. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:1525-1535. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Sui A, Chen X, Shen J, Demetriades AM, Yao Y, Yao Y, Zhu Y, Shen X, Xie B. Inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome with MCC950 ameliorates retinal neovascularization and leakage by reversing the IL-1β/IL-18 activation pattern in an oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy mouse model. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:901. [PMID: 33093455 PMCID: PMC7582915 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03076-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain containing receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays an important role in ocular neovascularization. In our study, we found that the expression and activation levels of NLRP3 inflammasome components, including NLRP3, an apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC) containing caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD) and caspase-1 (CAS1), were significantly upregulated. In addition, we found interleukin (IL)-1β activity increased while IL-18 activity decreased in the retinas of oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy (OIR) mice. MCC950, an inhibitor of NLRP3, reversed the IL-1β/IL-18 activation pattern, inhibited the formation of retinal neovascularization (RNV), decreased the number of acellular capillaries and reduced leakage of retinal vessels. Moreover, MCC950 could regulate the expression of endothelial cell- and pericyte function-associated molecules, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor (VEGFR)1, VEGFR2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2, MMP9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)1, TIMP2, platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β), platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B), and angiopoietin2 (Ang2). In vitro, recombinant human (r)IL-18 and rIL-1β regulated the expression of endothelial cell- and pericyte function-associated molecules and the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells and pericytes. We therefore determined that inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome with MCC950 can regulate the function of endothelial cells and pericytes by reversing the IL-1β/IL-18 activation pattern to ameliorate RNV and leakage; thereby opening new avenues to treat RNV-associated ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailing Sui
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuping Chen
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jikui Shen
- The Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Anna M Demetriades
- The Department of Ophthalmology, New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yiyun Yao
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixuan Yao
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanji Zhu
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Shen
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Bing Xie
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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10
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Amato R, Giannaccini M, Dal Monte M, Cammalleri M, Pini A, Raffa V, Lulli M, Casini G. Association of the Somatostatin Analog Octreotide With Magnetic Nanoparticles for Intraocular Delivery: A Possible Approach for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:144. [PMID: 32158755 PMCID: PMC7051943 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The somatostatin analog octreotide (OCT) displays important neuroprotective and anti-angiogenic properties that could make it an interesting candidate to treat diabetic retinopathy (DR). Unfortunately, systemic drug administration is hindered by severe side effects, therefore topical administration routes are preferable. However, drug delivery through eye drops may be difficult due to ocular barriers and, in the long term, could induce ocular damage. On the other hand, intraocular injections must be repeated to maintain drug concentration, and this may cause severe damage to the eye. To decrease injection frequency, long-term release and reduced biodegradation could be obtained by binding the drug to biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles. In the present study, we made a preparation of OCT bound to magnetic nanoparticles (MNP-OCT) and tested its possible use as an OCT delivery system to treat retinal pathologies such as DR. In particular, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental models of the mammalian retina were used to investigate the possible toxicity of MNPs, possible effects of the binding to MNPs on OCT bioactivity, and the localization of MNP-OCT in the retina after intraocular injection. The results showed that, both in human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) and in mouse retinal explants, MNPs were not toxic and the binding with MNPs did not influence OCT antiangiogenic or antiapoptotic activity. Rather, effects of MNP-OCT were observed at concentrations up to 100-fold (in HRECs) or 10-fold (in mouse retinal explants) lower compared to OCT, indicating that OCT bioactivity was enhanced in MNP-OCT. MNP-OCT in mouse retinas in vivo after intraocular delivery were initially localized mainly to the outer retina, at the level of the retinal pigment epithelium, while after 5 days they were observed throughout the retinal thickness. These observations demonstrate that MNP-OCT may be used as an OCT intraocular delivery system that may ensure OCT localization to the retina and enhanced OCT bioactivity. Further studies will be necessary to determine the OCT release rate in the retina and the persistence of drug effects in the long period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Lulli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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11
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Rossino MG, Dal Monte M, Casini G. Relationships Between Neurodegeneration and Vascular Damage in Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1172. [PMID: 31787868 PMCID: PMC6856056 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes and constitutes a major cause of vision impairment and blindness in the world. DR has long been described exclusively as a microvascular disease of the eye. However, in recent years, a growing interest has been focused on the contribution of neuroretinal degeneration to the pathogenesis of the disease, and there are observations suggesting that neuronal death in the early phases of DR may favor the development of microvascular abnormalities, followed by the full manifestation of the disease. However, the mediators that are involved in the crosslink between neurodegeneration and vascular changes have not yet been identified. According to our hypothesis, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) could probably be the most important connecting link between the death of retinal neurons and the occurrence of microvascular lesions. Indeed, VEGF is known to play important neuroprotective actions; therefore, in the early phases of DR, it may be released in response to neuronal suffering, and it would act as a double-edged weapon inducing both neuroprotective and vasoactive effects. If this hypothesis is correct, then any retinal stress causing neuronal damage should be accompanied by VEGF upregulation and by vascular changes. Similarly, any compound with neuroprotective properties should also induce VEGF downregulation and amelioration of the vascular lesions. In this review, we searched for a correlation between neurodegeneration and vasculopathy in animal models of retinal diseases, examining the effects of different neuroprotective substances, ranging from nutraceuticals to antioxidants to neuropeptides and others and showing that reducing neuronal suffering also prevents overexpression of VEGF and vascular complications. Taken together, the reviewed evidence highlights the crucial role played by mediators such as VEGF in the relationship between retinal neuronal damage and vascular alterations and suggests that the use of neuroprotective substances could be an efficient strategy to prevent the onset or to retard the development of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Gábriel R, Pöstyéni E, Dénes V. Neuroprotective Potential of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide in Retinal Degenerations of Metabolic Origin. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1031. [PMID: 31649495 PMCID: PMC6794456 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP1-38) is a highly conserved member of the secretin/glucagon/VIP family. The repressive effect of PACAP1-38 on the apoptotic machinery has been an area of active research conferring a significant neuroprotective potential onto this peptide. A remarkable number of studies suggest its importance in the etiology of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in relation to retinal metabolic disorders. In our review, we provide short descriptions of various pathological conditions (diabetic retinopathy, excitotoxic retinal injury and ischemic retinal lesion) in which the remedial effect of PACAP has been well demonstrated in various animal models. Of all the pathological conditions, diabetic retinopathy seems to be the most intriguing as it develops in 75% of patients with type 1 and 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes, with concomitant progression to legal blindness in about 5%. Several animal models have been developed in recent years to study retinal degenerations and out of these glaucoma and age-related retina degeneration models bear human recapitulations. PACAP neuroprotection is thought to operate through enhanced cAMP production upon binding to PAC1-R. However, the underlying signaling network that leads to neuroprotection is not fully understood. We observed that (i) PACAP is not equally efficient in the above conditions; (ii) in some cases more than one signaling pathways are activated; (iii) the coupling of PAC1-R and signaling is stage dependent; and (iv) PAC1-R is not the only receptor that must be considered to interpret the effects in our experiments. These observations point to a complex signaling mechanism, that involves alternative routes besides the classical cAMP/protein kinase A pathway to evoke the outstanding neuroprotective action. Consequently, the possible contribution of the other two main receptors (VPAC1-R and VPAC2-R) will also be discussed. Finally, the potential medical use of PACAP in some retinal and ocular disorders will also be reviewed. By taking advantage of, low-cost synthesis technologies today, PACAP may serve as an alternative to the expensive treatment modelities currently available in ocular or retinal conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Dénes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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13
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Denes V, Hideg O, Nyisztor Z, Lakk M, Godri Z, Berta G, Geck P, Gabriel R. The Neuroprotective Peptide PACAP1-38 Contributes to Horizontal Cell Development in Postnatal Rat Retina. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:770-778. [PMID: 30795011 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose PACAP1-38, a member of the secretin/glucagon superfamily, is expressed in the developing retina with documented neuroprotective effects. However, its function in retinal cell differentiation has yet to be elucidated. Our goals, therefore, were to identify PAC1 expressing cells morphologically, investigate the PACAP1-38 action functionally, and establish PACAP1-38 regulated events developmentally during the first postnatal week in rat retina. Methods P1 retinal sections or whole mounts of Wistar rats were used to reveal PAC1 and calbindin immunoreactive structures. P1, P3, or P7 pups were injected intravitreally with 100 pmol PACAP1-38. Tissues were harvested 24 hours post-treatment, then processed for calbindin immunohistochemistry to determine horizontal cell number, or 6, 12, 24 hours post-treatment for real-time PCR and immunoblots to detect PCNA expression. To localize proliferating cells, anti-PCNA antibody was applied. Results We showed various PAC1 expressing cells in RPE, NBL, and GCL in P1 retina including calbindin positive horizontal cells. We found that PACAP1-38 induced a marked cell number increase at P3 and P7 and showed upregulated cell proliferation as its mechanism; however, it was ineffective at P1. PACAP1-38 induced proliferative cells localized in the NBL, and double-marker studies demonstrated that the induced proliferative cells were horizontal cells. Conclusions PACAP1-38 appears to act in retinal differentiation by inducing mitosis selectively in a time and cell specific manner through PAC1. The control of horizontal cell proliferation raises the novel possibilities that (1) PACAP1-38 may be a major player in retinal patterning and (2) PACAP signaling may be critical in retinoblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Denes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Hideg
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Nyisztor
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Monika Lakk
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Zoltan Godri
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Berta
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Peter Geck
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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14
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Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Somatostatin-Based Signaling in Two Model Neural Networks, the Retina and the Hippocampus. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102506. [PMID: 31117258 PMCID: PMC6566141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural inhibition plays a key role in determining the specific computational tasks of different brain circuitries. This functional "braking" activity is provided by inhibitory interneurons that use different neurochemicals for signaling. One of these substances, somatostatin, is found in several neural networks, raising questions about the significance of its widespread occurrence and usage. Here, we address this issue by analyzing the somatostatinergic system in two regions of the central nervous system: the retina and the hippocampus. By comparing the available information on these structures, we identify common motifs in the action of somatostatin that may explain its involvement in such diverse circuitries. The emerging concept is that somatostatin-based signaling, through conserved molecular and cellular mechanisms, allows neural networks to operate correctly.
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15
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D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Rasà D, Federico C, Saccone S, Lazzara F, Fidilio A, Drago F, Bucolo C, D'Agata V. NAP modulates hyperglycemic-inflammatory event of diabetic retina by counteracting outer blood retinal barrier damage. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:5230-5240. [PMID: 30374973 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes. Prolonged hyperglycemia stimulates inflammatory pathway characterized by the release of some cytokines leading to the impairment of blood retinal barrier (BRB). NAP exerts a protective effect in various eye diseases, including DR. So far, the role of NAP in the modulation of inflammatory event during early phase of this pathology has not been investigated yet. In the current study, we have studied the retinal protective effect of NAP, injected into the eye, in diabetic rats. NAP treatment exerts a dual effect downregulating interleukin (IL)-1β and its related receptors and upregulating IL-1Ra expression. We have also tested the role of this peptide in human retinal epithelial cells (ARPE19) cultured on a semipermeable support and exposed to hyperglycemic-inflammatory insult, representing a in vitro model of diabetic macular edema, a clinical manifestation of DR. The results have shown that NAP prevents outer BRB impairment by upregulating the tight junctions. In conclusion, deepened characterization of NAP action mechanism on hyperglycemic-inflammatory damage may be useful to develop a new strategy to prevent retinal damage during DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniela Rasà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Annamaria Fidilio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology - CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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16
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Nyisztor Z, Denes V, Kovacs-Valasek A, Hideg O, Berta G, Gabriel R. Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide (PACAP1-38) Exerts Both Pro and Anti-Apoptotic Effects on Postnatal Retinal Development in Rat. Neuroscience 2018; 385:59-66. [PMID: 29906550 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PACAP1-38, a ubiquitous and multifunctional regulator has been in the focus of neurotoxicity research due to its impressive neuroprotective potential. Although the literature extensively demonstrated its repressive effect on the apoptotic machinery in neurodegenerative models, there is a striking absence of analysis on its role in normal development. We performed quantitative analyses on caspase activity in developing retina upon 100, 50, 25 or 1 pmol intravitreal PACAP1-38 injection from postnatal day 1 (P1) through P7 in Wistar rats. Retinas were harvested at 6, 12, 18, 24 or 48 h post-injection. Apoptotic activity was revealed using fluorescent caspase 3/7 enzyme assay, western blots and TUNEL assay. Unexpectedly, we found that 100 pmol PACAP1-38 increased the activity of caspase 3/7 at P1 and P5 whereas it had no effect at P7. At P3, as a biphasic effect, PACAP1-38 repressed active caspase 3/7 at 18 h post-injection while increased their activity in 24 h post-injection. Amounts, smaller than 100 pmol, could not inhibit apoptosis whereas 50, 25 or 1 pmol PACAP1-38 could evoke significant elevation in caspase 3/7 activity. TUNEL-positive cells appeared in the proximal part of inner nuclear as well as ganglion cell layers in response to PACAP1-38 treatment. The fundamental novelty of these results is that PACAP1-38 induces apoptosis during early postnatal retinogenesis. The dose as well as stage-dependent response suggests that PACAP1-38 has a Janus face in apoptosis regulation. It not only inhibits development-related apoptosis, but as a long-term effect, facilitates it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Nyisztor
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktoria Denes
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.
| | - Andrea Kovacs-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Hideg
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Berta
- Institute of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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17
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Altobelli GG, Van Noorden S, Cimini V. Calcium-binding protein and some neuropeptides in the retina of Octopus vulgaris: A morpho-histochemical study. J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:6866-6876. [PMID: 29682745 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The existence of both calcium-binding proteins (CBPs) and neuropeptides in the retina and brain of various species of vertebrates and invertebrates is well documented. Octopus retina is particularly interesting because it represents a case of convergent evolution. The aim of this study was to characterize the distribution of two CBPs, calretinin and calbindin, in Octopus retina using morphology, in situ hybridization, immunocytochemistry and Western blot. Calretinin-like immunoreactivity was found in the photoreceptor cells, but unexpectedly also in the supporting cells. In situ hybridization and Western blot analysis confirmed these results. No immunoreactivity was found for calbindin. Two neuropeptides, Substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), as well as neurofilament protein and glial fibrillary acidic protein were also localized in the Octopus retina by immunocytochemistry. Our work provides new insights about calcium-binding proteins and neuropeptide distribution in Octopus retina and suggests a functional role for calretinin, a highly conserved protein, in visual signal transduction of cephalopods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna G Altobelli
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Cimini
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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18
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D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Rasà DM, La Cognata V, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. NAP counteracts hyperglycemia/hypoxia induced retinal pigment epithelial barrier breakdown through modulation of HIFs and VEGF expression. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:1120-1128. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Agata G. D'Amico
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of LifeSan Raffaele Open University of RomeItaly
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
| | - Daniela M. Rasà
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
| | | | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
| | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological SciencesUniversity of CataniaItaly
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19
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Dubovy SR, Fernandez MP, Echegaray JJ, Block NL, Unoki N, Perez R, Vidaurre I, Lee RK, Nadji M, Schally AV. Expression of hypothalamic neurohormones and their receptors in the human eye. Oncotarget 2017; 8:66796-66814. [PMID: 28977997 PMCID: PMC5620137 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Extrapituitary roles for hypothalamic neurohormones have recently become apparent and clinically relevant, based on the use of synthetic peptide analogs for the treatment of multiple conditions including cancers, pulmonary edema and myocardial infarction. In the eye, it has been suggested that some of these hormones and their receptors may be present in the ciliary body, iris, trabecular meshwork and retina, but their physiological role has yet to be elucidated. Our study intends to comprehensively demonstrate the expression of some hypothalamic neuroendocrine hormones and their receptors within different retinal and extraretinal structures of the human eye. Immunofluorescence, Western blot analysis, and RT-PCR were used to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative expression of Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone (LHRH), Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH), Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH), Gastrin Releasing Peptide (GRP) and Somatostatin as well as their respective receptors (LHRH-R, GHRH-R, TRH-R, GRP-R, SST-R1) in cadaveric human eye tissue and in paraffinized human eye tissue sections. The hypothalamic hormones LHRH, GHRH, TRH, GRP and Somatostatin and their respective receptors (LHRH-R, GHRH-R, TRH-R, GRPR/BB2 and SST-R1), were expressed in the conjunctiva, cornea, trabecular meshwork, ciliary body, lens, retina, and optic nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander R Dubovy
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Maria P Fernandez
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Jose J Echegaray
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, PR, USA
| | - Norman L Block
- Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Divisions of Hematology/Oncology, Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Noriyuki Unoki
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Roberto Perez
- Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA.,Divisions of Hematology/Oncology, Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | - Richard K Lee
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mehrdad Nadji
- Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Divisions of Hematology/Oncology, Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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20
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D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Bucolo C, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Nap Interferes with Hypoxia-Inducible Factors and VEGF Expression in Retina of Diabetic Rats. J Mol Neurosci 2016; 61:256-266. [PMID: 27909871 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-016-0869-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
The retinal microvascular damage is a complication of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Hyperglycemia and hypoxia are responsible of aberrant vessel's proliferation. The cellular response to hypoxia is mediated through activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Among these, HIF-1α modulates expression of its target gene, VEGF, whose upregulation controls the angiogenic event during DR development. In a previous study, we have demonstrated that a small peptide, NAP, is able to protect retina from hyperglycemic insult. Here, we have demonstrated that its intraocular administration in a rat model of diabetic retinopathy has reduced expression of HIF-1α, HIF-2α, and VEGF by increasing HIF-3α levels. These data have been also confirmed by immunolocalization study by confocal microscopy. Although these evidences need to be further deepened to understand the molecular mechanism involved in the protective NAP action, the present data suggest that this small peptide may be effective to prevent the development of this ocular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D'Amico
- San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Italian National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy.
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21
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Šarić B, Brzović Šarić V, Barberić M, Predović J, Rumenjak V, Cerovski B. Oxidative stress impact on growth hormone secretion in the eye. Croat Med J 2016; 56:326-33. [PMID: 26321025 PMCID: PMC4576746 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2015.56.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To evaluate the influence of oxidative stress on extrapituitary growth hormone (GH) secretion in the eye and to analyze the interdependence between eye and serum GH levels under normal and hypoxic conditions. Methods Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) was performed in 32 patients with developed proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and 49 non-diabetic controls, both of whom required this procedure as part of their regular treatment in the period from April 2013 to December 2014. During PPV, vitreous samples were taken and blood was simultaneously collected from the cubital vein. GH levels in serum and vitreous samples were measured by electrochemical luminescence assay. Oxidative stress was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and lipid hydroperoxide (LPO) in serum and vitreous. Results Serum AOPP levels were significantly higher than vitreous levels in both groups (P < 0.001 for each group) and LPO levels were significantly higher only in PDR group (P < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between serum and vitreous LPO levels in PDR group (r = 0.909; P < 0.001). Serum GH levels were significantly higher than vitreous levels in both groups (P < 0.001 for each group). Serum GH levels were significantly higher in PDR group than in controls (P = 0.012). Vitreous GH values were slightly higher in PDR group, but the difference was not significant. Conclusion Our study confirms that GH production in the eye is autonomous and independent of oxidative stress or pituitary GH influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borna Šarić
- Borna Šarić, Dobri dol 56, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia,
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PACAP Modulates Expression of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat Retina. J Mol Neurosci 2015. [PMID: 26202258 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-015-0621-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Retinal hypoxia has been related to the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. This event is mediated by the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), including HIF-1α, HIF-2α, and HIF-3α. Previously, we have demonstrated the protective role of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) in the early phase of diabetic retinopathy. In the present work, we investigated whether PACAP effect in hyperglycemic retina is mediated through modulation of HIFs' expression. Diabetes was induced with a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ) in rats. After 1 week, a group of diabetic animals was treated with a single intravitreal injection of 100 μM PACAP or saline solution. Then, changes in HIFs' expression levels were evaluated in the retina after 3 weeks of hyperglycemia. The expression of HIF-1α and HIF-2α was significantly (p < 0.001 vs control) increased in diabetic rats as compared to controls. Instead, their expression levels were significantly (p < 0.001 vs STZ) decreased after PACAP intraocular administration, as detected by Western blot analysis. Conversely, the expression of HIF-3α was significantly (p < 0.001 vs control) downregulated in retinas of STZ-injected rats and significantly (p < 0.001 vs control) increased after PACAP treatment. These data were supported by the immunohistochemical analysis. HIFs were localized either in inner and outer retinal layers. Diabetes interferes with their distribution, which is changed following intravitreal injection of PACAP. The present results suggest that the protective effect of the peptide in diabetic retina might be also mediated through modulation of HIFs' expression.
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23
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Santos-Carvalho A, Ambrósio AF, Cavadas C. Neuropeptide Y system in the retina: From localization to function. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 47:19-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Marzagalli R, Scuderi S, Drago F, Waschek JA, Castorina A. Emerging Role of PACAP as a New Potential Therapeutic Target in Major Diabetes Complications. Int J Endocrinol 2015; 2015:160928. [PMID: 26074958 PMCID: PMC4446501 DOI: 10.1155/2015/160928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Enduring diabetes increases the probability of developing secondary damage to numerous systems, and these complications represent a cause of morbidity and mortality. Establishing the causes of diabetes remains the key step to eradicate the disease, but prevention as well as finding therapies to ameliorate some of the major diabetic complications is an equally important step to increase life expectancy and quality for the millions of individuals already affected by the disease or who are likely to develop it before cures become routinely available. In this review, we will firstly summarize some of the major complications of diabetes, including endothelial and pancreatic islets dysfunction, retinopathy, and nephropathy, and then discuss the emerging roles exerted by the neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) to counteract these ranges of pathologies that are precipitated by the prolonged hyperglycemic state. Finally, we will describe the main signalling routes activated by the peptide and propose possible future directions to focus on developing more effective peptide-based therapies to treat the major complications associated with longstanding diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubina Marzagalli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Soraya Scuderi
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - James A. Waschek
- Semel Institute, Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Alessandro Castorina
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- *Alessandro Castorina:
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25
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Davunetide (NAP) protects the retina against early diabetic injury by reducing apoptotic death. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 54:395-404. [PMID: 24488575 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0244-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Davunetide (NAP) is an eight amino acid peptide that has been shown to provide potent neuroprotection. In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of NAP in diabetic retinopathy using an in vivo streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic model. A single intraocular injection of NAP (100 μg/mL) or vehicle was administered 1 week after STZ injection. Three weeks after diabetes induction, we assessed the retinal expression and distribution of apoptosis markers, cleaved caspase-3, and Bcl2, by Western blot and immunofluorescent analysis. Furthermore, we evaluated the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (MAPK/ERK) and/or phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/Akt pathways by measuring the protein levels of p-ERK and p-AKT with or without NAP treatment. Results demonstrated that NAP treatment reduced apoptotic event in diabetic retina, and it restored cleaved caspase-3 expression levels in the retina of STZ-injected rats as well as the decreased Bcl2. NAP treatment improved cellular survival through the activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway. Taken together, these findings suggested that NAP might be useful to treat retinal degenerative diseases.
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Szabadfi K, Pinter E, Reglodi D, Gabriel R. Neuropeptides, trophic factors, and other substances providing morphofunctional and metabolic protection in experimental models of diabetic retinopathy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 311:1-121. [PMID: 24952915 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-800179-0.00001-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Vision is the most important sensory modality for many species, including humans. Damage to the retina results in vision loss or even blindness. One of the most serious complications of diabetes, a disease that has seen a worldwide increase in prevalence, is diabetic retinopathy. This condition stems from consequences of pathological metabolism and develops in 75% of patients with type 1 and 50% with type 2 diabetes. The development of novel protective drugs is essential. In this review we provide a description of the disease and conclude that type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes lead to the same retinopathy. We evaluate existing experimental models and recent developments in finding effective compounds against this disorder. In our opinion, the best models are the long-term streptozotocin-induced diabetes and Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty and spontaneously diabetic Torii rats, while the most promising substances are topically administered somatostatin and pigment epithelium-derived factor analogs, antivasculogenic substances, and systemic antioxidants. Future drug development should focus on these.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Szabadfi
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary.
| | - Erika Pinter
- Janos Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, PTE MTA Lendulet-PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary; Janos Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
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