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Krok M, Wróblewska-Czajka E, Łach-Wojnarowicz O, Bronikowska J, Czuba ZP, Wylęgała E, Dobrowolski D. Level of Secretion and the Role of the Nerve Growth Factor in Patients with Keratoconus before and after Collagen Fibre Cross-Linking Surgery. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:366. [PMID: 38203537 PMCID: PMC10779167 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to analyse the concentration of the nerve growth factor (NGF-β) in patients with keratoconus (KC) who are undergoing collagen fibre cross-linking (CXL) surgery in order to better understand the pathogenesis of this disease and observe the molecular changes occurring after the procedure. Among many cytokines, β-NGF seems to play an important role in the healing processes of corneal damage. Therefore, its role in the regenerative process after CXL treatment may affect the course of treatment and its final results. Tear samples from 52 patients were collected in this prospective study. Additionally, the patients also had a number of tests performed, including corneal topography using optical coherence tomography. Flat (K 1), steep (K 2), cylindrical (CYL), and central corneal thickness (CCT) keratometry were assessed. The tear samples were collected, and other tests were performed before the CXL procedure and afterwards, during the 12-month follow-up period. The NGF concentration was measured using the Bio-Plex Magnetic Luminex Assay. Lower levels of NGF-β were detected in the KC patients than in the control group (p < 0.001). The day after the procedure, the NGF-β level was significantly lower (on average by 2.3 pg/mL) (p = 0.037) than before the procedure, after which, the level of the reagent increases, but only in the group with the advanced cone, one month after CXL it was significantly higher (p = 0.047). Regarding the correlation of NGF with topographic measurements, the following were found: NGF-β correlates significantly (p < 0.05) and positively (r > 0) with K1 before the CXL procedure; NGF-β correlates significantly (p < 0.05) and positively (r > 0) with K1 one month after CXL; NGF-β correlates significantly (p < 0.05) and positively (r > 0) with CYL nine months after CXL; and, after twelve months, NGF-β correlates significantly (p < 0.05) and positively (r > 0) with K2 and K1. Corneal sensitivity did not statistically and significantly correlate with the level of NGF-β secretion. Our study suggests that NGF may be crucial in the development and progression of KC as well as in the repair mechanisms after CXL surgery. Further research is needed on the role of NGF and other inflammatory biomarkers for rapid diagnosis and selection of targeted therapy in patients with keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Krok
- Chair and Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Panewnicka 65 Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland; (E.W.-C.); (O.Ł.-W.); (E.W.); (D.D.)
- Ophthalmology of Department, District Railway Hospital, 65 Panewnicka Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
| | - Ewa Wróblewska-Czajka
- Chair and Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Panewnicka 65 Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland; (E.W.-C.); (O.Ł.-W.); (E.W.); (D.D.)
- Ophthalmology of Department, District Railway Hospital, 65 Panewnicka Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
| | - Olga Łach-Wojnarowicz
- Chair and Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Panewnicka 65 Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland; (E.W.-C.); (O.Ł.-W.); (E.W.); (D.D.)
- Ophthalmology of Department with Paediatric Unit, St. Barbara Hospital, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Joanna Bronikowska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (J.B.); (Z.P.C.)
| | - Zenon P. Czuba
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (J.B.); (Z.P.C.)
| | - Edward Wylęgała
- Chair and Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Panewnicka 65 Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland; (E.W.-C.); (O.Ł.-W.); (E.W.); (D.D.)
- Ophthalmology of Department, District Railway Hospital, 65 Panewnicka Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
| | - Dariusz Dobrowolski
- Chair and Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Panewnicka 65 Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland; (E.W.-C.); (O.Ł.-W.); (E.W.); (D.D.)
- Ophthalmology of Department, District Railway Hospital, 65 Panewnicka Street, 40-760 Katowice, Poland
- Ophthalmology of Department with Paediatric Unit, St. Barbara Hospital, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
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Goñi N, Martínez-Soroa I, Ibarrondo O, Azkargorta M, Elortza F, Galarreta DJ, Acera A. Tear proteome profile in eyes with keratoconus after intracorneal ring segment implantation or corneal crosslinking. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:944504. [PMID: 36203781 PMCID: PMC9531826 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.944504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeKeratoconus (KC) is a corneal ectasia characterized by structural changes, resulting in progressive thinning and biomechanical weakening that can lead to worsening visual acuity due to irregular astigmatism. Corneal collagen Crosslinking (CXL) and Intracorneal Ring Segment (ICRS) are widely used treatments in KC disease, but the alterations they cause in biomechanical mediators are still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to analyze the tear proteome profile before and after treatments to identify biomarkers altered by surgery.Materials and methodsAn observational, prospective, case-control pilot study was conducted, analyzing tear samples from KC patients by nano-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (nLC-MS/MS). Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD035655. Patients with KC who underwent ICRS surgery (n = 4), CXL (n = 4), and healthy subjects (Ctrl, n = 4) were included in this study. Clinical parameters were measured and tear samples were collected before and 18 months after surgery. Proteins with ≥2 expression change and p-value < 0.05 between groups and times were selected to study their role in post-operative corneal changes.ResultsThese analyses led to the identification of 447 tear proteins, some of which were dysregulated in KC patients. In comparisons between the two surgical groups and Ctrls, the biological processes that were altered in KC patients at baseline were those that were dysregulated as a consequence of the disease and not of the surgical intervention. Among the biological processes seen to be altered were: immune responses, cytoskeleton components, protein synthesis and metabolic reactions. When comparing the two treatment groups (ICRS and CXL), the process related to cytoskeleton components was the most altered, probably due to corneal thinning which was more pronounced in patients undergoing CXL.ConclusionThe changes observed in tears after 18 months post-operatively could be due to the treatments performed and the pathology. Among the deregulated proteins detected, A-kinase anchor protein 13 (AKAP-13) deserves special attention for its involvement in corneal thinning, and for its strong overexpression in the tears of patients with more active KC and faster disease progression. However, it should be kept in mind that this is a pilot study conducted in a small number of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahia Goñi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario Donostia, San Sebastian, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | - Itziar Martínez-Soroa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario Donostia, San Sebastian, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
| | | | - Mikel Azkargorta
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), CIBERehd, Derio, Spain
| | - Felix Elortza
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), CIBERehd, Derio, Spain
| | - David J. Galarreta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Arantxa Acera
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Experimental Ophthalmo-Biology Group (GOBE:www.ehu.eus/gobe), University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
- *Correspondence: Arantxa Acera,
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Hao XD, Gao H, Xu WH, Shan C, Liu Y, Zhou ZX, Wang K, Li PF. Systematically Displaying the Pathogenesis of Keratoconus via Multi-Level Related Gene Enrichment-Based Review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:770138. [PMID: 35141241 PMCID: PMC8818795 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.770138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is an etiologically heterogeneous corneal ectatic disorder. To systematically display the pathogenesis of keratoconus (KC), this study reviewed all the reported genes involved in KC, and performed an enrichment analysis of genes identified at the genome, transcription, and protein levels respectively. Combined analysis of multi-level results revealed their shared genes, gene ontology (GO), and pathway terms, to explore the possible pathogenesis of KC. After an initial search, 80 candidate genes, 2,933 transcriptional differential genes, and 947 differential proteins were collected. The candidate genes were significantly enriched in extracellular matrix (ECM) related terms, Wnt signaling pathway and cytokine activities. The enriched GO/pathway terms of transcription and protein levels highlight the importance of ECM, cell adhesion, and inflammatory once again. Combined analysis of multi-levels identified 13 genes, 43 GOs, and 12 pathways. The pathogenic relationships among these overlapping factors maybe as follows. The gene mutations/variants caused insufficient protein dosage or abnormal function, together with environmental stimulation, leading to the related functions and pathways changes in the corneal cells. These included response to the glucocorticoid and reactive oxygen species; regulation of various signaling (P13K-AKT, MAPK and NF-kappaB), apoptosis and aging; upregulation of cytokines and collagen-related enzymes; and downregulation of collagen and other ECM-related proteins. These undoubtedly lead to a reduction of extracellular components and induction of cell apoptosis, resulting in the loosening and thinning of corneal tissue structure. This study, in addition to providing information about the genes involved, also provides an integrated insight into the gene-based etiology and pathogenesis of KC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dan Hao
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Dan Hao
| | - Hua Gao
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Shandong Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Wen-Hua Xu
- Department of Inspection, The Medical Faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chan Shan
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi-Xia Zhou
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Kun Wang
| | - Pei-Feng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Pei-Feng Li
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Differences in sphere-forming cells from keratoconic and normal corneal tissue: Implications for keratoconus pathogenesis. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108301. [PMID: 33086037 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Keratoconus is primarily an anterior corneal disorder of unclear aetiology. Stem cells may play a role in the perpetuation of keratoconus, although this has yet to be definitively established. Sphere-forming cells from normal human donor corneas have previously been shown to be a heterogenous mix of epithelial, stromal, stem and progenitor cell components which have potential for treatment of corneal dystrophies. Our work set out to isolate and characterise sphere-forming cells from human keratoconic tissue. Keratoconic donor corneas were successfully used to culture sphere-forming cells in vitro. Time lapse imaging of these spheres on a collagen surface over 8 days revealed keratoconic spheres lack the ability to maintain a central core and have diminished ability to repopulate the surface. Immunocytochemistry showed positive labelling for the stem cell marker 'Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette sub-family B member 5 (ABCB5)' indicating stem cell retention and the myofibroblast marker alpha smooth muscle actin indicating wound repair while droplet digital Polymerase Chain Reaction confirmed an increase in expression of stem and stromal cell markers in keratoconic spheres compared to spheres cultured from normal donors at day 7 post-placement. Keratoconic sphere-forming cells showed a diminished repopulation ability, a faster wound healing response and lack of central core retention. These results suggest stem cells in keratoconus may be in an elevated state of wound repair and unable to respond appropriately to further injury in corneal maintenance. Sphere forming cell populations in keratoconus appear to be different to those isolated from normal corneas and this may be an important consideration in unearthing keratoconus aetiology.
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Wadhwa H, Ismail S, McGhee JJ, Van der Werf B, Sherwin T. Sphere-forming corneal cells repopulate dystrophic keratoconic stroma: Implications for potential therapy. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:35-54. [PMID: 32110274 PMCID: PMC7031758 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i1.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keratoconus is a degenerative corneal disease characterised by aberrant cell behaviour and loss of matrix that can result in vision loss. Cells extracted from peripheral corneas can form stem cell-enriched spheres, which have shown the potential to repopulate the normal peripheral corneal stroma in vitro upon sphere implantation but have not been previously studied in keratoconic tissue. AIM To investigate the therapeutic potential of stem cell-enriched spheres formed from extracted peripheral human corneal cells when introduced to keratoconic tissue. METHODS Stem cell-enriched spheres were formed from extracts of normal cadaveric human peripheral corneal cells. These spheres were implanted into incisions created in full thickness and onto the surface of 10 µm thin sections of keratoconic and normal stromal tissues in vitro. Tissue sections were used to maximise use of limited keratoconic tissue available for research. Living cells were stained with Calcein-AM and visualised with stereo and fluorescence microscopy to assess survival and behaviours between the time of implantation day 0 and 14 d (D14) from implantation. Sphere cells in implanted tissues were characterised for stem cell and differentiation markers using immunohistochemistry and droplet digital PCR to assess the potential implications of these characteristics in the use of spheres in keratoconus treatment. RESULTS Spheres were successfully implanted into full-thickness central corneal tissue and onto the surface of 10 µm thin en face tissue sections. No observable differences were seen in sphere migration, proliferation or differentiation in keratoconic tissue compared to normal between day 0 and D14. Spheres stained positively with Calcein-AM up to D14. Cell migration increased from day 0 to D14, occurring radially in three dimensions from the sphere and in alignment with tissue edges. Cell proliferation marker, EdU, was detected at day 10. Implanted spheres stained positively for putative stem cell markers ∆Np63α and ABCB5, while ABCG2, ABCB5, ∆Np63 and p63α were detectable by droplet digital PCR up to D14. Double immunolabelling revealed absence of ABCB5 staining in migrated cells but positive staining of alpha smooth muscle actin (myofibroblast marker) in some migrated cells. Droplet digital PCR showed similar expression patterns of differentiation markers but a reduction in stem cell markers between normal and keratoconic tissue with an increase in stromal cell markers and a reduction in epithelial cell markers, indicating an appropriate response to repopulating diseased tissue. CONCLUSION Cells from implanted stem cell-enriched spheres can repopulate a keratoconic corneal stromal surface in a directed manner and exhibit migratory stromal cell phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Wadhwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Salim Ismail
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer J McGhee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Bert Van der Werf
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Trevor Sherwin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand.
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Loukovitis E, Kozeis N, Gatzioufas Z, Kozei A, Tsotridou E, Stoila M, Koronis S, Sfakianakis K, Tranos P, Balidis M, Zachariadis Z, Mikropoulos DG, Anogeianakis G, Katsanos A, Konstas AG. The Proteins of Keratoconus: a Literature Review Exploring Their Contribution to the Pathophysiology of the Disease. Adv Ther 2019; 36:2205-2222. [PMID: 31363996 PMCID: PMC6822850 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-019-01026-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Keratoconus (KC) is a complex, genetically heterogeneous multifactorial degenerative disorder characterized by corneal ectasia and thinning. Its incidence is approximately 1/2000-1/50,000 in the general population. KC is associated with moderate to high myopia and irregular astigmatism, resulting in severe visual impairment. KC structural abnormalities primarily relate to the weakening of the corneal collagen. Their understanding is crucial and could contribute to effective management of the disease, such as with the aid of corneal cross-linking (CXL). The present article critically reviews the proteins involved in the pathophysiology of KC, with particular emphasis on the characteristics of collagen that pertain to CXL. METHODS PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar and GeneCards databases were screened for relevant articles published in English between January 2006 and June 2018. Keyword combinations of the words "keratoconus," "risk factor(s)," "genetics," "genes," "genetic association(s)," "proteins", "collagen" and "cornea'' were used. In total, 272 articles were retrieved, reviewed and selected, with greater weight placed on more recently published evidence. Based on the reviewed literature, an attempt was made to tabulate the up- and down-regulation of genes involved in KC and their protein products and to delineate the mechanisms involved in CXL. RESULTS A total of 117 proteins and protein classes have been implicated in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of KC. These have been tabulated in seven distinct tables according to their gene coding, their biochemistry and their metabolic control. CONCLUSION The pathogenesis and pathophysiology of KC remain enigmatic. Emerging evidence has improved our understanding of the molecular characteristics of KC and could further improve the success rate of CXL therapies.
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Sharif R, Khaled ML, McKay TB, Liu Y, Karamichos D. Transcriptional profiling of corneal stromal cells derived from patients with keratoconus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12567. [PMID: 31467338 PMCID: PMC6715750 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48983-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a multi-factorial corneal ectasia with unknown etiology affecting approximately 1:2000 people worldwide. Dysregulated gene expression, using RNA-Seq technology, have been reported in KC corneal tissue. However, the differential expression of genes, in KC corneal stromal cells have been widely ignored. We utilized mRNA-Seq to analyze gene expression in primary human corneal stromal cells derived from five non-Keratoconus healthy (HCF) and four Keratoconus (HKC) donors. Selected genes were further validated using real time PCR (RT-PCR). We have identified 423 differentially expressed genes with 187 down- and 236 up-regulated in KC-affected corneal stromal cells. Gene ontology analysis using WebGestalt indicates the enrichment of genes involved in cell migration, extracellular matrix, adherens junction, and MAPK signaling. Our protein-protein interaction network analysis identified several network seeds, such as EGFR, NEDD4, SNTA1, LGALS3BP, HSPB1, SDC2, MME, and HIF1A. Our work provides an otherwise unknown information on the transcriptional changes in HKCs, and reveals critical mechanisms of the cellular compartment. It also highlights the importance of human-based in vitro studies on a disease that currently lacks strong biomarkers and animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabab Sharif
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, USA
| | - Mariam L Khaled
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Tina B McKay
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States.
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology/Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73104, USA.
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Garranzo-Asensio M, Montero-Calle A, Solís-Fernández G, Barderas R, Guzman-Aranguez A. Protein Microarrays: Valuable Tools for Ocular Diseases Research. Curr Med Chem 2019; 27:4549-4566. [PMID: 31244416 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190627131300] [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: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The eye is a complex organ comprised of several compartments with exclusive and specialized properties that reflect their diverse functions. Although the prevalence of eye pathologies is increasing, mainly because of its correlation with aging and of generalized lifestyle changes, the pathogenic molecular mechanisms of many common ocular diseases remain poorly understood. Therefore, there is an unmet need to delve into the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of eye diseases to preserve ocular health and reduce the incidence of visual impairment or blindness. Proteomics analysis stands as a valuable tool for deciphering protein profiles related to specific ocular conditions. In turn, such profiles can lead to real breakthroughs in the fields of ocular science and ophthalmology. Among proteomics techniques, protein microarray technology stands out by providing expanded information using very small volumes of samples. In this review, we present a brief summary of the main types of protein microarrays and their application for the identification of protein changes in chronic ocular diseases such as dry eye, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy. The validation of these specific protein alterations could provide new biomarkers, disclose eye diseases pathways, and help in the diagnosis and development of novel therapies for eye pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Garranzo-Asensio
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, C/Arcos de Jalon 118, Madrid 28037, Spain
| | - Ana Montero-Calle
- Functional Proteomics Unit, Chronic Disease Programme (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Solís-Fernández
- Functional Proteomics Unit, Chronic Disease Programme (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Barderas
- Functional Proteomics Unit, Chronic Disease Programme (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Guzman-Aranguez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, C/Arcos de Jalon 118, Madrid 28037, Spain
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Gulpamuk B, Koç M, Karatepe MS, Yildiz A, Erel O, Neselioglu S, Yilmazbas P. Novel Assay Assessment of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Patients with Keratoconus: Thiol–Disulfide Homeostasis. Curr Eye Res 2017; 42:1215-1219. [DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2017.1302592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bayram Gulpamuk
- Department of Opthalmology, Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Koç
- Department of Opthalmology, Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Salih Karatepe
- Department of Opthalmology, Ankara Ulucanlar Eye Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aydan Yildiz
- Clinical Microbiology Department, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozcan Erel
- Biochemistry Department, Ankara Ataturk Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Salim Neselioglu
- Biochemistry Department, Ankara Ataturk Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pelin Yilmazbas
- Ophthalmology Department, Ulucanlar Eye Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Szczesniak MW, Kabza M, Karolak JA, Rydzanicz M, Nowak DM, Ginter-Matuszewska B, Polakowski P, Ploski R, Szaflik JP, Gajecka M. KTCNlncDB-a first platform to investigate lncRNAs expressed in human keratoconus and non-keratoconus corneas. DATABASE-THE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL DATABASES AND CURATION 2017; 2017:baw168. [PMID: 28077570 PMCID: PMC5225396 DOI: 10.1093/database/baw168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Keratoconus (KTCN, OMIM 148300) is a degenerative eye disorder characterized by progressive stromal thinning that leads to a conical shape of the cornea, resulting in optical aberrations and even loss of visual function. The biochemical background of the disease is poorly understood, which motivated us to perform RNA-Seq experiment, aimed at better characterizing the KTCN transcriptome and identification of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that might be involved in KTCN etiology. The in silico functional studies based on predicted lncRNA:RNA base-pairings led us to recognition of a number of lncRNAs possibly regulating genes with known or plausible links to KTCN. The lncRNA sequences and data regarding their predicted functions in controlling the RNA processing and stability are available for browse, search and download in KTCNlncDB (http://rhesus.amu.edu.pl/KTCNlncDB/), the first online platform devoted to KTCN transcriptome. Database URL: http://rhesus.amu.edu.pl/KTCNlncDB/
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal W Szczesniak
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Integrative Genomics, Institute of Antropology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michal Kabza
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Department of Integrative Genomics, Institute of Antropology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
| | - Justyna A Karolak
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Rydzanicz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland and
| | - Dorota M Nowak
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Barbara Ginter-Matuszewska
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Polakowski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafal Ploski
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland and
| | - Jacek P Szaflik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marzena Gajecka
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.,Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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12
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Application of multiplex immunoassay technology to investigations of ocular disease. Expert Rev Mol Med 2016; 18:e15. [PMID: 27577534 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2016.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Eye-derived fluids, including tears, aqueous humour and vitreous humour often contain molecular signatures of ocular disease states. These signatures can be composed of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteases and soluble receptors. However, the small quantities (<10 µl) of these fluids severely limit the detection of these proteins by traditional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or Western blot. To maximise the amount of information generated from the analysis of these specimens, many researchers have employed multiplex immunoassay technologies for profiling the expression or modification of multiple proteins from minute sample volumes.
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13
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Inflammatory Biomarkers Profile as Microenvironmental Expression in Keratoconus. DISEASE MARKERS 2016; 2016:1243819. [PMID: 27563164 PMCID: PMC4987484 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1243819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Keratoconus is a degenerative disorder with progressive stromal thinning and transformation of the normal corneal architecture towards ectasia that results in decreased vision due to irregular astigmatism and irreversible tissue scarring. The pathogenesis of keratoconus still remains unclear. Hypotheses that this condition has an inflammatory etiopathogenetic component apart from the genetic and environmental factors are beginning to escalate in the research domain. This paper covers the most relevant and recent published papers regarding the biomarkers of inflammation, their signaling pathway, and the potentially new therapeutic options in keratoconus.
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Veréb Z, Póliska S, Albert R, Olstad OK, Boratkó A, Csortos C, Moe MC, Facskó A, Petrovski G. Role of Human Corneal Stroma-Derived Mesenchymal-Like Stem Cells in Corneal Immunity and Wound Healing. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26227. [PMID: 27195722 PMCID: PMC4872602 DOI: 10.1038/srep26227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal tissue regeneration is of crucial importance for maintaining normal vision. We aimed to isolate and cultivate human corneal stroma-derived mesenchymal stem-like cells (CSMSCs) from the central part of cadaver corneas and study their phenotype, multipotency, role in immunity and wound healing. The isolated cells grew as monolayers in vitro, expressed mesenchymal- and stemness-related surface markers (CD73, CD90, CD105, CD140b), and were negative for hematopoietic markers as determined by flow cytometry. CSMSCs were able to differentiate in vitro into fat, bone and cartilage. Their gene expression profile was closer to bone marrow-derived MSCs (BMMSCs) than to limbal epithelial stem cells (LESC) as determined by high-throughput screening. The immunosuppressive properties of CSMSCs were confirmed by a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), while they could inhibit proliferation of activated immune cells. Treatment of CSMSCs by pro-inflammatory cytokines and toll-like receptor ligands significantly increased the secreted interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL-10) levels, as well as the cell surface adhesion molecules. CSMSCs were capable of closing a wound in vitro under different stimuli. These cells thus contribute to corneal tissue homeostasis and play an immunomodulatory and regenerative role with possible implications in future cell therapies for treating sight-threatening corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Veréb
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Szilárd Póliska
- Center for Clinical Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Réka Albert
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ole Kristoffer Olstad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anita Boratkó
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Csilla Csortos
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Morten C Moe
- Centre of Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrea Facskó
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Stem Cells and Eye Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,Centre of Eye Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Expression of HGF and c-Met Proteins in Human Keratoconus Corneas. J Ophthalmol 2015; 2015:852986. [PMID: 26697215 PMCID: PMC4677219 DOI: 10.1155/2015/852986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive degenerative inflammatory-related disease of the human cornea leading to decreased visual function. The pathogenesis of KC remains to be understood. Recent genetic studies indicate that gene variants of an inflammation-related molecule, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), are associated with an increased susceptibility for developing KC. However HGF protein expression in KC has not been explored. In this initial study, we investigated late-stage KC and control corneas for the expression of HGF and its receptor mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met/Met). KC buttons (~8 mm diameter) (n = 10) and whole control corneas (n = 6) were fixed in 10% formalin or 2% paraformaldehyde, paraffin embedded and sectioned. Sections were immunolabelled with HGF and c-Met antibodies, visualised using immunofluorescence, and examined with scanning laser confocal microscopy. Semiquantitative grading was used to compare HGF and c-Met immunostaining in KC and control corneas. Overall, KC corneas showed increased HGF and c-Met immunostaining compared to controls. KC corneal epithelium displayed heterogeneous moderate-to-strong immunoreactivity for HGF and c-Met, particularly in the basal epithelium adjacent to the cone area. Taken together with the recent genetic studies, our results further support a possible role for HGF/c-Met in the pathogenesis of KC.
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Mazur-Bialy AI, Pocheć E. HMGB1 Inhibition During Zymosan-Induced Inflammation: The Potential Therapeutic Action of Riboflavin. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2015; 64:171-6. [PMID: 26445809 PMCID: PMC4805693 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-015-0366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sepsis, also known as systemic inflammatory response syndrome, is a life-threatening condition caused by a pathogenic agent and leading to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. One of the factors responsible for the excessive intensification of the inflammatory response in the course of inflammation is high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1). HMG-1 is a nuclear protein which, after being released to the intercellular space, has a highly pro-inflammatory effect and acts as a late mediator of lethal damage. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the anti-inflammatory action of riboflavin is accompanied by inhibition of HMGB1 release during peritoneal inflammation and zymosan stimulation of macrophages. Peritonitis was induced in male BALB/c and C57BL/6J mice via intraperitoneal injection of zymosan (40 mg/kg). RAW 264.7 macrophages were activated with zymosan (250 µg/ml). Riboflavin (mice, 50 mg/kg; RAW 264.7, 25 µg/ml) was administered 30 min before zymosan, simultaneously with, or 2, 4, 6 h after zymosan. Additionally, mRNA expression of HMGB1 and its intracellular and serum levels were evaluated. The research showed that riboflavin significantly reduces both the expression and the release of HMGB1; however, the effect of riboflavin was time-dependent. The greatest efficacy was found when riboflavin was given 30 min prior to zymosan, and also 2 and 4 h (C57BL/6J; RAW 264.7) or 4 and 6 h (BALB/c) after zymosan. Research showed that riboflavin influences the level of HMGB1 released in the course of inflammation; however, further study is necessary to determine its mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Irena Mazur-Bialy
- Department of Ergonomics and Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Health Science, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Grzegorzecka 20, 31-531, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Ewa Pocheć
- Department of Glycoconjugate Biochemistry, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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Galvis V, Sherwin T, Tello A, Merayo J, Barrera R, Acera A. Keratoconus: an inflammatory disorder? Eye (Lond) 2015; 29:843-59. [PMID: 25931166 PMCID: PMC4506344 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2015.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2014] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus has been classically defined as a progressive, non-inflammatory condition, which produces a thinning and steepening of the cornea. Its pathophysiological mechanisms have been investigated for a long time. Both genetic and environmental factors have been associated with the disease. Recent studies have shown a significant role of proteolytic enzymes, cytokines, and free radicals; therefore, although keratoconus does not meet all the classic criteria for an inflammatory disease, the lack of inflammation has been questioned. The majority of studies in the tears of patients with keratoconus have found increased levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. Eye rubbing, a proven risk factor for keratoconus, has been also shown recently to increase the tear levels of MMP-13, IL-6, and TNF-α. In the tear fluid of patients with ocular rosacea, IL-1α and MMP-9 have been reported to be significantly elevated, and cases of inferior corneal thinning, resembling keratoconus, have been reported. We performed a literature review of published biochemical changes in keratoconus that would support that this could be, at least in part, an inflammatory condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Galvis
- Centro Oftalmologico Virgilio Galvis, Floridablanca, Colombia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Bucaramanga, Floridablanca, Colombia
| | - T Sherwin
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A Tello
- Centro Oftalmologico Virgilio Galvis, Floridablanca, Colombia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Bucaramanga, Floridablanca, Colombia
| | - J Merayo
- Instituto Oftalmologico Fernandez-Vega, Oviedo, Spain
| | - R Barrera
- Centro Oftalmologico Virgilio Galvis, Floridablanca, Colombia
| | - A Acera
- Bioftalmik Applied Research, Derio, Spain
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Human Keratoconus Cell Contractility is Mediated by Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Isoforms. J Funct Biomater 2015; 6:422-38. [PMID: 26096146 PMCID: PMC4493522 DOI: 10.3390/jfb6020422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive disease linked to defects in the structural components of the corneal stroma. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is secreted and assembled by corneal keratocytes and regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). We have previously identified alterations in the TGF-β pathway in human keratoconus cells (HKCs) compared to normal corneal fibroblasts (HCFs). In our current study, we seeded HKCs and HCFs in 3D-collagen gels to identify variations in contractility, and expression of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) by HKCs in response the TGF-β isoforms. HKCs showed delayed contractility with decreased Collagen I:Collagen V ratios. TGF-β1 significantly increased ECM contraction, Collagen I, and Collagen V expression by HKCs. We also found that HKCs have significantly decreased Collagen I:Collagen III ratios suggesting a potential link to altered collagen isoform expression in KC. Our findings show that HKCs have significant variations in collagen secretion in a 3D collagen gel and have delayed contraction of the matrix compared to HCFs. For the first time, we utilize a collagen gel model to characterize the contractility and MMP expression by HKCs that may contribute to the pathobiology of KC.
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