1
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Cullen PF, Gammerdinger WJ, Sui SJH, Mazumder AG, Sun D. Transcriptional profiling of retinal astrocytes identifies a specific marker and points to functional specialization. Glia 2024; 72:1604-1628. [PMID: 38785355 PMCID: PMC11262981 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Astrocyte heterogeneity is an increasingly prominent research topic, and studies in the brain have demonstrated substantial variation in astrocyte form and function, both between and within regions. In contrast, retinal astrocytes are not well understood and remain incompletely characterized. Along with optic nerve astrocytes, they are responsible for supporting retinal ganglion cell axons and an improved understanding of their role is required. We have used a combination of microdissection and Ribotag immunoprecipitation to isolate ribosome-associated mRNA from retinal astrocytes and investigate their transcriptome, which we also compared to astrocyte populations in the optic nerve. Astrocytes from these regions are transcriptionally distinct, and we identified retina-specific astrocyte genes and pathways. Moreover, although they share much of the "classical" gene expression patterns of astrocytes, we uncovered unexpected variation, including in genes related to core astrocyte functions. We additionally identified the transcription factor Pax8 as a highly specific marker of retinal astrocytes and demonstrated that these astrocytes populate not only the retinal surface, but also the prelaminar region at the optic nerve head. These findings are likely to contribute to a revised understanding of the role of astrocytes in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F Cullen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - William J Gammerdinger
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shannan J Ho Sui
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Arpan G Mazumder
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Daniel Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114 USA
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2
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Wang XL, Gao YX, Yuan QZ, Zhang M. NLRP3 and autophagy in retinal ganglion cell inflammation in age-related macular degeneration: potential therapeutic implications. Int J Ophthalmol 2024; 17:1531-1544. [PMID: 39156786 PMCID: PMC11286452 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2024.08.20] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases were a large group of diseases characterized by the primary death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Recent studies had shown an interaction between autophagy and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes, which may affect RGCs in retinal degenerative diseases. The NLRP3 inflammasome was a protein complex that, upon activation, produces caspase-1, mediating the apoptosis of retinal cells and promoting the occurrence and development of retinal degenerative diseases. Upregulated autophagy could inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation, while inhibited autophagy can promote NLRP3 inflammasome activation, which leaded to the accelerated emergence of drusen and lipofuscin deposition under the neurosensory retina. The activated NLRP3 inflammasome could further inhibit autophagy, thus forming a vicious cycle that accelerated the damage and death of RGCs. This review discussed the relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome and autophagy and its effects on RGCs in age-related macular degeneration, providing a new perspective and direction for the treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Li Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yun-Xia Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qiong-Zhen Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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3
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Wu J, Duan C, Yang Y, Wang Z, Tan C, Han C, Hou X. Insights into the liver-eyes connections, from epidemiological, mechanical studies to clinical translation. J Transl Med 2023; 21:712. [PMID: 37817192 PMCID: PMC10566185 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04543-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of internal homeostasis is a sophisticated process, during which almost all organs get involved. Liver plays a central role in metabolism and involves in endocrine, immunity, detoxification and storage, and therefore it communicates with distant organs through such mechanisms to regulate pathophysiological processes. Dysfunctional liver is often accompanied by pathological phenotypes of distant organs, including the eyes. Many reviews have focused on crosstalk between the liver and gut, the liver and brain, the liver and heart, the liver and kidney, but with no attention paid to the liver and eyes. In this review, we summarized intimate connections between the liver and the eyes from three aspects. Epidemiologically, we suggest liver-related, potential, protective and risk factors for typical eye disease as well as eye indicators connected with liver status. For molecular mechanism aspect, we elaborate their inter-organ crosstalk from metabolism (glucose, lipid, proteins, vitamin, and mineral), detoxification (ammonia and bilirubin), and immunity (complement and inflammation regulation) aspect. In clinical application part, we emphasize the latest advances in utilizing the liver-eye axis in disease diagnosis and therapy, involving artificial intelligence-deep learning-based novel diagnostic tools for detecting liver disease and adeno-associated viral vector-based gene therapy method for curing blinding eye disease. We aim to focus on and provide novel insights into liver and eyes communications and help resolve existed clinically significant issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhao Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Caihan Duan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Yuanfan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Chen Tan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Chaoqun Han
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
| | - Xiaohua Hou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022 Hubei China
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4
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Jia Z, Feng J, Yuan G, Xiao H, Dang H, Zhang Y, Chen K, Zou J, Wang J. The Meteorin-like cytokine is upregulated in grass carp after infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 141:104632. [PMID: 36608897 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Meteorin-like (Metrnl) is a novel immune regulatory factor or adipokine which is mainly produced by activated macrophages. In teleost fish, two homologs are present. In this study, monoclonal antibodies were prepared against recombinant grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella, Ci) Metrnl-a in mice and characterized by Western blotting, flow cytometry and immunofluorescent microscopy. In grass carp infected with Aeromonus hydrophila (A. hydrophila), the cells expressing CiMetrnl-a markedly increased in the gills, head kidney and intestine. In the inflamed intestine caused by A. hydrophila infection, the CiMetrnl-a producing cells were detected mainly in the mucosal layer of anterior, middle and posterior segments. Consistently, qRT-PCR analysis showed that the mRNA expression of CiMetrnl-a was markedly induced. Our results suggest that CiMetrnl-a is involved in regulating intestine inflammation caused by bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Jia
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Jianhua Feng
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Gaoliang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Hehe Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Huifeng Dang
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Yanwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Kangyong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, China
| | - Junya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China.
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5
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Claes M, Geeraerts E, Plaisance S, Mentens S, Van den Haute C, De Groef L, Arckens L, Moons L. Chronic Chemogenetic Activation of the Superior Colliculus in Glaucomatous Mice: Local and Retrograde Molecular Signature. Cells 2022; 11:1784. [PMID: 35681479 PMCID: PMC9179903 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One important facet of glaucoma pathophysiology is axonal damage, which ultimately disrupts the connection between the retina and its postsynaptic brain targets. The concurrent loss of retrograde support interferes with the functionality and survival of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Previous research has shown that stimulation of neuronal activity in a primary retinal target area-i.e., the superior colliculus-promotes RGC survival in an acute mouse model of glaucoma. To build further on this observation, we applied repeated chemogenetics in the superior colliculus of a more chronic murine glaucoma model-i.e., the microbead occlusion model-and performed bulk RNA sequencing on collicular lysates and isolated RGCs. Our study revealed that chronic target stimulation upon glaucomatous injury phenocopies the a priori expected molecular response: growth factors were pinpointed as essential transcriptional regulators both in the locally stimulated tissue and in distant, unstimulated RGCs. Strikingly, and although the RGC transcriptome revealed a partial reversal of the glaucomatous signature and an enrichment of pro-survival signaling pathways, functional rescue of injured RGCs was not achieved. By postulating various explanations for the lack of RGC neuroprotection, we aim to warrant researchers and drug developers for the complexity of chronic neuromodulation and growth factor signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Claes
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (E.G.); (S.M.)
| | - Emiel Geeraerts
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (E.G.); (S.M.)
| | | | - Stephanie Mentens
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (E.G.); (S.M.)
- Cellular Communication and Neurodegeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Research Group, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- KU Leuven Viral Vector Core, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Cellular Communication and Neurodegeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Lut Arckens
- Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (E.G.); (S.M.)
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6
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Embryonic stem cells-derived exosomes enhance retrodifferentiation of retinal Müller cells by delivering BDNF protein to activate Wnt pathway. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152211. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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7
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Hong J, Dragas R, Khazaei M, Ahuja CS, Fehlings MG. Hepatocyte Growth Factor-Preconditioned Neural Progenitor Cells Attenuate Astrocyte Reactivity and Promote Neurite Outgrowth. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:741681. [PMID: 34955750 PMCID: PMC8695970 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.741681] [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: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The astroglial scar is a defining hallmark of secondary pathology following central nervous system (CNS) injury that, despite its role in limiting tissue damage, presents a significant barrier to neuroregeneration. Neural progenitor cell (NPC) therapies for tissue repair and regeneration have demonstrated favorable outcomes, the effects of which are ascribed not only to direct cell replacement but trophic support. Cytokines and growth factors secreted by NPCs aid in modifying the inhibitory and cytotoxic post-injury microenvironment. In an effort to harness and enhance the reparative potential of NPC secretome, we utilized the multifunctional and pro-regenerative cytokine, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), as a cellular preconditioning agent. We first demonstrated the capacity of HGF to promote NPC survival in the presence of oxidative stress. We then assessed the capacity of this modified conditioned media (CM) to attenuate astrocyte reactivity and promote neurite outgrowth in vitro. HGF pre-conditioned NPCs demonstrated significantly increased levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 and reduced vascular endothelial growth factor compared to untreated NPCs. In reactive astrocytes, HGF-enhanced NPC-CM effectively reduced glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan deposition to a greater extent than either treatment alone, and enhanced neurite outgrowth of co-cultured neurons. in vivo, this combinatorial treatment strategy might enable tactical modification of the post-injury inhibitory astroglial environment to one that is more conducive to regeneration and functional recovery. These findings have important translational implications for the optimization of current cell-based therapies for CNS injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hong
- Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel Dragas
- Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammad Khazaei
- Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher S Ahuja
- Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Department of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Spinal Program, University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
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8
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Kondkar AA. Updates on Genes and Genetic Mechanisms Implicated in Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2021; 14:89-112. [PMID: 33727852 PMCID: PMC7955727 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s274884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) is estimated to affect over 30 million people worldwide by 2040 and is highly prevalent in the Asian population. PACG is more severe and carries three times the higher risk of blindness than primary open-angle glaucoma, thus representing a significant public health concern. High heritability and ethnic-specific predisposition to PACG suggest the involvement of genetic factors in disease development. In the recent past, genetic studies have led to the successful identification of several genes and loci associated with PACG across different ethnicities. The precise cellular and molecular roles of these multiple loci in the development and progression of PACG remains to be elucidated. Nonetheless, these studies have significantly increased our understanding of the emerging cellular processes and biological pathways that might provide more significant insights into the disease’s genetic etiology and may be valuable for future clinical applications. This review aims to summarize and update the current knowledge of PACG genetics analysis research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altaf A Kondkar
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Glaucoma Research Chair in Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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9
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Rettinger CL, Kaini RR, Burke TA, Wang HC. Neurotrophic Factors Secreted by Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Progenitors Promote Retinal Survival and Preservation in an Adult Porcine Neuroretina Model. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2021; 37:301-312. [PMID: 33661042 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2020.0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Paracrine factors released by pluripotent stem cells have shown great potential as therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine. The purpose of this study was to characterize trophic factor secretion of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and to assess its impact on retinal survival ex vivo. Methods: RPCs were generated from human 3D1 iPSCs following previously established protocols with modifications. Conditioned medium (CM) was harvested from iPSC-derived retinal progenitors and analyzed for trophic factor composition through multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Retina-preserving capability of the collected CM was examined using a degenerative porcine neuroretina model. Viability of the CM-treated retina explants was evaluated using the resazurin-based PrestoBlue reagent, whereas the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay was used to assess retinal cytotoxicity. Retina explants were also analyzed morphologically through immunohistochemistry for glial cell activation and apoptosis. Results: We have successfully generated and characterized iPSC-derived RPCs that secreted an array of neuroprotective factors, including osteopontin, hepatocyte growth factor, stromal cell-derived factor 1, and insulin-like growth factor-1. Retina explants cultured in CM derived from iPSC-RPCs (iPSC-RPC-CM) showed better preservation of the retinal microarchitecture and fewer terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)+ nuclei, and reduced reactive gliosis. Furthermore, we saw a reduction in extracellular LDH levels in CM-treated retina explants, which also exhibited higher metabolic activity than the untreated controls. Conclusions: iPSC-derived RPCs secrete many trophic factors that have been shown to promote neuroprotection, tissue repair, and regeneration in the retina. Overall, we have demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of iPSC-RPC-CM through a degenerative neuroretina model ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina L Rettinger
- Ocular and Sensory Trauma Task Area, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ramesh R Kaini
- Ocular and Sensory Trauma Task Area, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Teresa A Burke
- Ocular and Sensory Trauma Task Area, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Heuy-Ching Wang
- Ocular and Sensory Trauma Task Area, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Shimizu T, Hisamoto N. Factors regulating axon regeneration via JNK MAP kinase in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Biochem 2021; 167:433-439. [PMID: 32091576 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Axon regeneration following nerve injury is a highly conserved process in animals. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is an excellent model for investigating the molecular mechanisms of axon regeneration. Recent studies using C. elegans have shown that the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) plays the important role in axon regeneration. Furthermore, many factors have been identified that act upstream of the JNK cascade after axotomy. This review introduces these factors and describes their roles during the regulation of axon regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuhiro Shimizu
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8602, Japan
| | - Naoki Hisamoto
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8602, Japan
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11
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Xia B, Wei J, Ma X, Nehme A, Liong K, Cui Y, Chen C, Gallitano A, Ferguson D, Qiu S. Conditional knockout of MET receptor tyrosine kinase in cortical excitatory neurons leads to enhanced learning and memory in young adult mice but early cognitive decline in older adult mice. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 179:107397. [PMID: 33524570 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human genetic studies established MET gene as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorders. We have previously shown that signaling mediated by MET receptor tyrosine kinase, expressed in early postnatal developing forebrain circuits, controls glutamatergic neuron morphological development, synapse maturation, and cortical critical period plasticity. Here we investigated how MET signaling affects synaptic plasticity, learning and memory behavior, and whether these effects are age-dependent. We found that in young adult (postnatal 2-3 months) Met conditional knockout (Metfx/fx:emx1cre, cKO) mice, the hippocampus exhibits elevated plasticity, measured by increased magnitude of long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD) in hippocampal slices. Surprisingly, in older adult cKO mice (10-12 months), LTP and LTD magnitudes were diminished. We further conducted a battery of behavioral tests to assess learning and memory function in cKO mice and littermate controls. Consistent with age-dependent LTP/LTD findings, we observed enhanced spatial memory learning in 2-3 months old young adult mice, assessed by hippocampus-dependent Morris water maze test, but impaired spatial learning in 10-12 months mice. Contextual and cued learning were further assessed using a Pavlovian fear conditioning test, which also revealed enhanced associative fear acquisition and extinction in young adult mice, but impaired fear learning in older adult mice. Lastly, young cKO mice also exhibited enhanced motor learning. Our results suggest that a shift in the window of synaptic plasticity and an age-dependent early cognitive decline may be novel circuit pathophysiology for a well-established autism genetic risk factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baomei Xia
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Jing Wei
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Xiaokuang Ma
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Antoine Nehme
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Katerina Liong
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Yuehua Cui
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Chang Chen
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Amelia Gallitano
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Deveroux Ferguson
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
| | - Shenfeng Qiu
- Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States.
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12
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Fung JCL, Cho EYP. Methylene blue promotes survival and GAP-43 expression of retinal ganglion cells after optic nerve transection. Life Sci 2020; 262:118462. [PMID: 32961228 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Neurodegeneration of the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) leads to progressive vision loss. As part of the central nervous system, RGCs show limited ability to regenerate and there is extensive search for neuroprotective agents for optic nerve damage. Methylene blue (MB) exhibits beneficial effects against various neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system. However, the mechanisms associated with its putative protection on neuronal survival and regeneration remain obscure. This study used the optic nerve transection model to examine the effects of MB on RGC survival, the expression of regenerative marker GAP-43 in RGCs and microglial activation. MAIN METHODS Axons of RGCs were injured by cutting the optic nerve. MB was injected intravitreally either immediately post-injury or delayed to 3 days post-injury. Using immunohistochemical staining, surviving RGCs, GAP-43-positive RGCs and microglial cells were quantified in wholemount retinas 7 days post-injury. KEY FINDINGS Both immediate and delayed (a more clinically realistic situation) intravitreal injection of MB promoted RGC survival. MB also increased the number of GAP-43-positive RGCs, suggesting an enhanced ability of RGCs to regenerate. This was exemplified by the regenerative sprouting of axon-like processes from injured RGCs after MB treatment. The increase in RGC survival and GAP-43 expression correlated with an increase in the number of microglial cells. SIGNIFICANCE These results reveal that MB has survival-promoting and growth-promoting effects on RGCs after optic nerve injury. Together with the established safety profile of MB in humans, MB is a promising treatment for neurodegeneration and injury of the optic nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline C L Fung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Eric Y P Cho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
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Abstract
The cornea is a transparent outermost structure of the eye anterior segment comprising the highest density of innervated tissue. In the process of corneal innervation, trigeminal ganglion originated corneal nerves diligently traverse different corneal cell types in different corneal layers including the corneal stroma and epithelium. While crossing the stromal and epithelial cell layers during innervation, due to the existing physical contacts, close interactions occur between stromal keratocytes, epithelial cells, resident immune cells and corneal nerves. Furthermore, by producing various trophic and growth factors corneal cells assist in maintaining the growth and function of corneal nerves. Similarly, corneal nerve generated growth factors critically modify the corneal cell function in all the corneal layers. Due to their close association and contacts, on-going cross-communication between these cell types and corneal nerves play a vital role in the modulation of corneal nerve function, regeneration during wound healing. The present review highlights the influence of different corneal cell types and growth factors released from these cells on corneal nerve regeneration and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavani S Kowtharapu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Centre, Rostock, Germany
| | - Oliver Stachs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Centre, Rostock, Germany
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Vaghef L, Farajdokht F, Erfani M, Majdi A, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Karimi P, Sandoghchian Shotorbani S, Seyedi Vafaee M, Mahmoudi J. Cerebrolysin attenuates ethanol-induced spatial memory impairments through inhibition of hippocampal oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death in rats. Alcohol 2019; 79:127-135. [PMID: 30981808 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigates the potential neuroprotective effect of cerebrolysin (CBL), a combination of neurotrophic factors, on the cognitive and biochemical alterations induced by chronic ethanol administration in rats. The animals were divided into five groups as follows: control; ethanol (4 g/kg, for 30 days) plus normal saline (Ethanol + NS); ethanol plus CBL 1 mL/kg (Ethanol + CBL 1), ethanol plus CBL 2.5 mL/kg (Ethanol + CBL 2.5); and ethanol plus CBL 5 mL/kg (Ethanol + CBL 5). The Morris water maze (MWM) test was performed to assess cognitive impairment. The status of the lipid peroxidation marker MDA, antioxidant capacity, as well as alterations of the apoptotic factors such as Bcl-2, BAX, and cleaved caspase-9 and -3, were evaluated in the hippocampus. The results showed that CBL treatment not only normalized the increased MDA levels in the alcoholic rats and enhanced antioxidant defense, but also reduced the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and cleaved caspase-9 and -3 in the hippocampus. These results were parallel with improvement in spatial memory performance in the MWM test. The findings of the present study provide evidence for the promising therapeutic effect of CBL in chronic ethanol consumption through counteracting oxidative stress and apoptosis markers.
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Boldyreva M, Bondar I, Stafeev I, Makarevich P, Beloglazova I, Zubkova E, Shevchenko E, Molokotina Y, Karagyaur M, Rаtner Е, Parfyonova YV. Plasmid-based gene therapy with hepatocyte growth factor stimulates peripheral nerve regeneration after traumatic injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.02.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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16
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Liu FY, Hsu TC, Choong P, Lin MH, Chuang YJ, Chen BS, Lin C. Uncovering the regeneration strategies of zebrafish organs: a comprehensive systems biology study on heart, cerebellum, fin, and retina regeneration. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2018; 12:29. [PMID: 29560825 PMCID: PMC5861487 DOI: 10.1186/s12918-018-0544-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background Regeneration is an important biological process for the restoration of organ mass, structure, and function after damage, and involves complex bio-physiological mechanisms including cell differentiation and immune responses. We constructed four regenerative protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks using dynamic models and AIC (Akaike’s Information Criterion), based on time-course microarray data from the regeneration of four zebrafish organs: heart, cerebellum, fin, and retina. We extracted core and organ-specific proteins, and proposed a recalled-blastema-like formation model to uncover regeneration strategies in zebrafish. Results It was observed that the core proteins were involved in TGF-β signaling for each step in the recalled-blastema-like formation model and TGF-β signaling may be vital for regeneration. Integrins, FGF, and PDGF accelerate hemostasis during heart injury, while Bdnf shields retinal neurons from secondary damage and augments survival during the injury response. Wnt signaling mediates the growth and differentiation of cerebellum and fin neural stem cells, potentially providing a signal to trigger differentiation. Conclusion Through our analysis of all four zebrafish regenerative PPI networks, we provide insights that uncover the underlying strategies of zebrafish organ regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Yu Liu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Te-Cheng Hsu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Patrick Choong
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Jen Chuang
- Department of Medical Science and Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Sen Chen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Che Lin
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan.
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Hu C, Lu Y, Chen X, Wu Z, Zhang Q. Gene transfer of a naked plasmid (pUDK-HGF) encoding human hepatocyte growth factor attenuates skin/muscle incision and retraction-induced chronic post-surgical pain in rats. Eur J Pain 2018; 22:961-972. [DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Hu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
- International Academy of Targeted Therapeutics and Innovation; Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences; China
| | - Y. Lu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
| | - X. Chen
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
| | - Z. Wu
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering; Beijing University of Technology; China
| | - Q. Zhang
- Department of Experimental Hematology; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine; China
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Ghasemi M, Alizadeh E, Saei Arezoumand K, Fallahi Motlagh B, Zarghami N. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) delivery to retina: an overview of current research advancements. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 46:1694-1707. [PMID: 29065723 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1391820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The intraocular administration of the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been found to attenuate the photoreceptor degeneration and preserve retinal functions in the animal research models of the inherited or induced retinal disease. Studies with the aim of CNTF transfer to the posterior segment inside the eye have been directed to determine the best method for its administration. An ideal delivery method would overcome the eye drug elimination mechanisms or barriers and provide the sustained release of the CNTF into retina in the safest fashion with the minimum harm to the quality of life. This review focuses on the present state of CNTF delivery to retina, also provides an overview of available technologies and their challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghasemi
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Khatereh Saei Arezoumand
- b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | | | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- a The Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Research Center (UCSRC) , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,b Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran.,d Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
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Liu X, Liang JP, Sha O, Wang SJ, Li HG, Cho EYP. Protection of retinal ganglion cells against optic nerve injury by induction of ischemic preconditioning. Int J Ophthalmol 2017; 10:854-861. [PMID: 28730074 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2017.06.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore if ischemic preconditioning (IPC) can enhance the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve axotomy. METHODS Twenty-four hours prior to retinal ischemia 60min or axotomy, IPC was applied for ten minutes in groups of (n=72) animals. The survival of RGCs, the cellular expression of heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and the numbers of retinal microglia in the different groups were quantified at 7 and 14d post-injury. The cellular expression of HSP27 and HSP70 and changes in the numbers of retinal microglia were quantified to detect the possible mechanism of the protection of the IPC. RESULTS Ten minutes of IPC promoted RGC survival in both the optic nerve injury (IPC-ONT) and the retinal ischemia 60min (IPC-IR60) groups, examined at 7d and 14d post-injury. Microglial proliferation showed little correlation with the extent of benefit effects of IPC on the rescue of RGCs. The number of HSP27-positive RGCs was significantly higher in the IPC-ONT group than in the sham IPC-ONT group, although the percentage of HSP27-positive RGCs did not significantly differ between groups. For the IPC-IR60 group, neither the number nor the percentage of the HSP27-positive RGCs differed significantly between the IPC and the sham-operated groups. The number of HSP70-positive RGCs was significantly higher for both the IPC-ONT and the IPC-IR60 experimental groups, but the percentages did not differ. CONCLUSION The induction of IPC enhances the survival of RGCs against both axotomy and retinal ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Liu
- Medical Imaging Center, the First Affiliated Clinical Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong Province, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Jiu-Ping Liang
- Medical Imaging Center, the First Affiliated Clinical Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ou Sha
- Department of Preclinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Song-Juan Wang
- Shiyan People's Hospital of Baoan District, Shenzhen 518108, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Heng-Guo Li
- Medical Imaging Center, the First Affiliated Clinical Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Eric Y P Cho
- School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong 999077, China
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20
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Progranulin deficiency causes the retinal ganglion cell loss during development. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1679. [PMID: 28490764 PMCID: PMC5431873 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01933-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are glial cells that support and protect neurons in the central nervous systems including the retina. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are in contact with the astrocytes and our earlier findings showed the reduction of the number of cells in the ganglion cell layer in adult progranulin deficient mice. In the present study, we focused on the time of activation of the astrocytes and the alterations in the number of RGCs in the retina and optic nerve in progranulin deficient mice. Our findings showed that the number of Brn3a-positive cells was reduced and the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was increased in progranulin deficient mice. The progranulin deficient mice had a high expression of GFAP on postnatal day 9 (P9) but not on postnatal day 1. These mice also had a decrease in the number of the Brn3a-positive cells on P9. Taken together, these findings indicate that the absence of progranulin can affect the survival of RGCs subsequent the activation of astrocytes during retinal development.
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Guo Q, Liu C, Hai B, Ma T, Zhang W, Tan J, Fu X, Wang H, Xu Y, Song C. Chitosan conduits filled with simvastatin/Pluronic F-127 hydrogel promote peripheral nerve regeneration in rats. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2017; 106:787-799. [PMID: 28371231 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.33890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Guo
- Department of Neurology; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Can Liu
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Bao Hai
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Teng Ma
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Jie Tan
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Xin Fu
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Hong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Diseases; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Yingsheng Xu
- Department of Neurology; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
| | - Chunli Song
- Department of Orthopedics; Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing 100191 China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Diseases; Beijing 100191 China
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Shi X, Lu L, Jin X, Liu B, Sun X, Lu L, Jiang Y. GRIN3A and MAPT stimulate nerve overgrowth in macrodactyly. Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:5637-5643. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Wang Y, Jia H, Li WY, Guan LX, Deng L, Liu YC, Liu GB. Molecular examination of bone marrow stromal cells and chondroitinase ABC-assisted acellular nerve allograft for peripheral nerve regeneration. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:1980-1992. [PMID: 27698684 PMCID: PMC5038205 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the molecular mechanisms underlying combinatorial bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) transplantation and chondroitinase ABC (Ch-ABC) therapy in a model of acellular nerve allograft (ANA) repair of the sciatic nerve gap in rats. Sprague Dawley rats (n=24) were used as nerve donors and Wistar rats (n=48) were randomly divided into the following groups: Group I, Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) control group (ANA treated with DMEM only); Group II, Ch-ABC group (ANA treated with Ch-ABC only); Group III, BMSC group (ANA seeded with BMSCs only); Group IV, Ch-ABC + BMSCs group (Ch-ABC treated ANA then seeded with BMSCs). After 8 weeks, the expression of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and vascular endothelial growth factor in the regenerated tissues were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Axonal regeneration, motor neuron protection and functional recovery were examined by immunohistochemistry, horseradish peroxidase retrograde neural tracing and electrophysiological and tibialis anterior muscle recovery analyses. It was observed that combination therapy enhances the growth response of the donor nerve locally as well as distally, at the level of the spinal cord motoneuron and the target muscle organ. This phenomenon is likely due to the propagation of retrograde and anterograde transport of growth signals sourced from the graft site. Collectively, growth improvement on the donor nerve, target muscle and motoneuron ultimately contribute to efficacious axonal regeneration and functional recovery. Thorough investigation of molecular peripheral nerve injury combinatorial strategies are required for the optimization of efficacious therapy and full functional recovery following ANA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Mudanjiang College of Medicine, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Hua Jia
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui 750004, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Yuan Li
- Department of Anatomy, Mudanjiang College of Medicine, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Li-Xin Guan
- Department of Anatomy, Mudanjiang College of Medicine, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Lingxiao Deng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Yan-Cui Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Mudanjiang College of Medicine, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Gui-Bo Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Mudanjiang College of Medicine, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
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Zheng SL, Li ZY, Song J, Liu JM, Miao CY. Metrnl: a secreted protein with new emerging functions. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2016; 37:571-9. [PMID: 27063217 PMCID: PMC4857552 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2016.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted proteins play critical roles in physiological and pathological processes and can be used as biomarkers and therapies for aging and disease. Metrnl is a novel secreted protein homologous to the neurotrophin Metrn. But this protein, unlike Metrn that is mainly expressed in the brain, shows a relatively wider distribution in the body with high levels of expression in white adipose tissue and barrier tissues. This protein plays important roles in neural development, white adipose browning and insulin sensitization. Based on its expression and distinct functions, this protein is also called Cometin, Subfatin and Interleukin 39, which refer to its neurotrophic effect, adipokine function and the possible action as a cytokine, respectively. The spectrum of Metrnl functions remains to be determined, and the mechanisms of Metrnl action need to be elucidated. In this review, we focus on the discovery, structural characteristics, expression pattern and physiological functions of Metrnl, which will assist in developing this protein as a new therapeutic target or agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-li Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhi-yong Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jie Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jian-min Liu
- Stroke Center & Department of Neurosurgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chao-yu Miao
- Department of Pharmacology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100069, China
- E-mail
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Byrne AM, Roche SL, Ruiz-Lopez AM, Jackson ACW, Cotter TG. The synthetic progestin norgestrel acts to increase LIF levels in the rd10 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Mol Vis 2016; 22:264-74. [PMID: 27081297 PMCID: PMC4812511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Retinal degenerative conditions affect thousands of people worldwide. Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is among the most common, but it is currently incurable. It is characterized by the progressive death of photoreceptor cells, eventually leading to blindness. Neurotrophic factors play an important role in such retinopathies, and much research has been performed on their use as treatments. Our group previously demonstrated the ability of the synthetic progestin norgestrel to rescue photoreceptors from cell death, the mechanism of which is believed to include upregulation of the neurotrophic factor basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The objective of the present study was to investigate whether the protection provided by norgestrel is likely to be mediated by other neurotrophins. METHODS The 661W photoreceptor cells and retinal explants from P30 to P40 wild-type (wt) C57BL/6 mice were treated with norgestrel over time. Homozygous rd10/rd10 mice that mimic the human form of RP were fed either a control or a norgestrel-containing diet. Changes in neurotrophic factor expression in response to norgestrel were detected with real-time PCR, western blotting, or immunofluorescence staining. Using specific siRNA, leukemia inhibitory factor (Lif) expression was knocked down in 661W photoreceptor cells that were stressed by serum starvation. Cells were treated with norgestrel followed by measurement of cell viability with (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) (MTS) assay. RESULTS LIF, a potent neuroprotective cytokine, was found to be upregulated in response to norgestrel in vitro and in vivo. Upregulation of LIF in degenerating rd10 retinas coincided with preservation of the photoreceptor layer. We also found LIF was necessary for the norgestrel-mediated rescue of stressed photoreceptor cells from cell death in vitro. CONCLUSIONS LIF was upregulated in response to norgestrel in all models studied and is necessary for the protective effects of norgestrel in vitro. The increase in LIF expression in rd10 mice undergoing retinal degeneration was concurrent with rescue of the photoreceptor cell layer. These results highlight the ability of norgestrel to induce prosurvival molecules in the compromised retina, underlining norgestrel's potential as a viable drug for treatment of RP.
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Yang W, Liu TT, Song XB, Zhang Y, Li ZH, Hao Q, Cui ZH, Liu HL, Lei CL, Liu J. Neuregulin-1 protects against acute optic nerve injury in rat model. J Neurol Sci 2015; 357:157-66. [PMID: 26235969 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, we employed a rat model and examined the expression pattern of neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) in optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in response to optic nerve injury to understand the role of NRG-1 in conferring protection against acute optic nerve injury. METHOD Forty-eight male rats were randomly divided into two groups, the sham-operation group (n=24) and optic nerve injury group (n=24). Flash visual evoked potentials (FVEP) and fundography images were acquired at different time points following optic nerve injury (2h, 1d, 2d, 7d, 14d and 28d). Semi-quantitative analysis of NGR-1 expression pattern was performed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. In a related experiment, 100 male rats were randomly divided into NGR-1 treatment group (n=60) (treated with increasing dose of NGR-1 at 0.5μg, 1μg and 3μg), normal saline (NS) group (n=20) and negative control group (n=20). Optic nerve injury was induced in all the animals and in situ cell death was measured by detecting the apoptosis rates using TUNEL assay. RESULTS Fundus photography results revealed no detectable differences between the sham-operation group and optic nerve injury group at 2h, 1d, 2d and 7d. However at 2weeks, the optic discs turned pale in all animals in the optic nerve injury group. NRG-1 expression increased significantly at all time points in the optic nerve injury group (P<0.05), compared to the sham-operation group, with NRG-1 expression peaking at 14d and gradually declining by 28d. Statistically significant differences in amplitude and latency of P100 wave were also detected between the optic nerve injury and sham-operation group (P<0.05). In related experiment, compared to NS group, treatment with 1μg and 3μg of recombinant human NRG-1 resulted in statistically significant FVEP-P100 amplitude values (all P<0.05). Further, compared to the NS group, ganglion cell apoptosis was dramatically reduced in the NRG-1 group at all time points and the reduction was statistically significant in 3μg NRG-1 treatment group at 7d, 14d and 28d (all P<0.05). CONCLUSION Our results strongly suggest that NRG-1 is highly effective in preserving normal optic nerve function and is essential for tissue repair following optic nerve injury. Thus, NRG-1 expression confers protection against acute optic nerve injury in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Tao-Tao Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Xiao-Bin Song
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Jilin Province People's Hospital, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Zhao-Hui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital of Changchun City, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Qian Hao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China.
| | - Zhi-Hua Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China.
| | - Hong Lei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Chun Ling Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, PR China
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Bikbova G, Oshitari T, Baba T, Yamamoto S. Altered Expression of NF- κ B and SP1 after Exposure to Advanced Glycation End-Products and Effects of Neurotrophic Factors in AGEs Exposed Rat Retinas. J Diabetes Res 2015; 2015:543818. [PMID: 26078979 PMCID: PMC4452840 DOI: 10.1155/2015/543818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Revised: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine the effect of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) on neurite regeneration, and also to determine the regenerative effects of different neurotrophic factors (NTFs) on rat retinal explants, the retinas of SD rats were cultured in three-dimensional collagen gels and incubated in 6 types of media: (1) serum-free control culture media; (2) 100 μg/mL AGEs-BSA media; (3) AGEs-BSA + 100 ng/mL neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) media; (4) AGEs-BSA + 100 ng/mL hepatocyte growth factor media; (5) AGEs-BSA + 100 ng/mL glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor media; or (6) AGEs-BSA + 100 µM tauroursodeoxycholic acid media. After 7 days, the number of regenerating neurites was counted. The explants were immunostained for nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and specificity protein 1 (SP1). Statistical analyses were performed by one-way ANOVA. In retinas incubated with AGEs, the numbers of neurites were fewer than in control. All of the NTFs increased the number of neurites, and the increase was more significant in the NT-4 group. The number of NF-κB and SP1 immunopositive cells was higher in retinas exposed to AGEs than in control. All of the NTFs decreased the number of NF-κB immunopositive cells but did not significantly affect SP1 expression. These results demonstrate the potential of the NTFs as axoprotectants in AGEs exposed retinal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guzel Bikbova
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Inohana 1-8-1, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Chiba Prefecture 260-8670, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Oshitari
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Inohana 1-8-1, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Chiba Prefecture 260-8670, Japan
- *Toshiyuki Oshitari:
| | - Takayuki Baba
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Inohana 1-8-1, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Chiba Prefecture 260-8670, Japan
| | - Shuichi Yamamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Inohana 1-8-1, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Chiba Prefecture 260-8670, Japan
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