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Yang H, Zhang H, Li X. Navigating the future of retinitis pigmentosa treatments: A comprehensive analysis of therapeutic approaches in rd10 mice. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 193:106436. [PMID: 38341159 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106436] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a degenerative disease, caused by genetic mutations that lead to a loss in photoreceptors. For research on RP, rd10 mice, which carry mutations in the phosphodiesterase (PDE) gene, exhibit degenerative patterns comparable to those of patients with RP, making them an ideal model for investigating potential treatments. Although numerous studies have reported the potential of biochemical drugs, gene correction, and stem cell transplantation in decelerating rd10 retinal degeneration, a comprehensive review of these studies has yet to be conducted. Therefore, here, a comparative analysis of rd10 mouse treatment research over the past decade was performed. Our findings suggest that biochemical drugs capable of inhibiting the inflammatory response may be promising therapeutics. Additionally, significant progress has been made in the field of gene therapy; nevertheless, challenges such as strict delivery requirements, bystander editing, and off-target effects still need to be resolved. Nevertheless, secretory function is the only unequivocal protective effect of stem cell transplantation. In summary, this review presents a comprehensive analysis and synthesis of the treatment approaches employing rd10 mice as experimental subjects, describing a clear pathway for future RP treatment research and identifies potential clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No. 251, Fukang Road, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Hui Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No. 251, Fukang Road, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Xiaorong Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Retinal Functions and Diseases, Tianjin Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Disease, Eye Institute and School of Optometry, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, No. 251, Fukang Road, Tianjin 300384, China.
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Fujii Y, Arima M, Murakami Y, Sonoda KH. Rhodopsin-positive cell production by intravitreal injection of small molecule compounds in mouse models of retinal degeneration. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282174. [PMID: 36821627 PMCID: PMC9949636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to verify whether the intravitreal injection of small molecule compounds alone can create photoreceptor cells in mouse models of retinal degeneration. Primary cultured mouse Müller cells were stimulated in vitro with combinations of candidate compounds and the rhodopsin expression was measured on day 7 using polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining. We used 6-week-old N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-treated and 4-week-old rd10 mice as representative in vivo models of retinal degeneration. The optimal combination of compounds selected via in vitro screening was injected into the vitreous and the changes in rhodopsin expression were investigated on day 7 using polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining. The origin of rhodopsin-positive cells was also analyzed via lineage tracing and the recovery of retinal function was assessed using electroretinography. The in vitro mRNA expression of rhodopsin in Müller cells increased 30-fold, and 25% of the Müller cells expressed rhodopsin protein 7 days after stimulation with a combination of 4 compounds: transforming growth factor-β inhibitor, bone morphogenetic protein inhibitor, glycogen synthase kinase 3 inhibitor, and γ-secretase inhibitor. The in vivo rhodopsin mRNA expression and the number of rhodopsin-positive cells in the outer retina were significantly increased on day 7 after the intravitreal injection of these 4 compounds in both N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-treated and rd10 mice. Lineage tracing in td-Tomato mice treated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea suggested that the rhodopsin-positive cells originated from endogenous Müller cells, accompanied with the recovery of the rhodopsin-derived scotopic function. It was suggested that rhodopsin-positive cells generated by compound stimulation contributes to the recovery of retinal function impaired by degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuya Fujii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Arima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan,Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan,* E-mail:
| | - Yusuke Murakami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koh-Hei Sonoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Galindez SM, Keightley A, Koulen P. Differential distribution of steroid hormone signaling networks in the human choroid-retinal pigment epithelial complex. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:406. [PMID: 36266625 PMCID: PMC9583547 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02585-7] [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: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a layer of pigmented cells that lies between the neurosensory retina and the underlying choroid, plays a critical role in maintaining the functional integrity of photoreceptor cells and in mediating communication between the neurosensory retina and choroid. Prior studies have demonstrated neurotrophic effects of select steroids that mitigate the development and progression of retinal degenerative diseases via an array of distinct mechanisms of action. Methods Here, we identified major steroid hormone signaling pathways and their key functional protein constituents controlling steroid hormone signaling, which are potentially involved in the mitigation or propagation of retinal degenerative processes, from human proteome datasets with respect to their relative abundances in the retinal periphery, macula, and fovea. Results Androgen, glucocorticoid, and progesterone signaling networks were identified and displayed differential distribution patterns within these three anatomically distinct regions of the choroid-retinal pigment epithelial complex. Classical and non-classical estrogen and mineralocorticoid receptors were not identified. Conclusion Identified differential distribution patterns suggest both selective susceptibility to chronic neurodegenerative disease processes, as well as potential substrates for drug target discovery and novel drug development focused on steroid signaling pathways in the choroid-RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney M Galindez
- School of Medicine, Vision Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, 2411 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA
| | - Andrew Keightley
- School of Medicine, Vision Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, 2411 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA
| | - Peter Koulen
- School of Medicine, Vision Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, 2411 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA.
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The Interaction of lncRNA XLOC-2222497, AKR1C1, and Progesterone in Porcine Endometrium and Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093232. [PMID: 32370225 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is an important tissue for pregnancy and plays an important role in reproduction. In this study, high-throughput transcriptome sequencing was performed in endometrium samples of Meishan and Yorkshire pigs on days 18 and 32 of pregnancy. Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C1 (AKR1C1) was found to be a differentially expressed gene, and was identified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry results revealed the cellular localization of the AKR1C1 protein in the endometrium. Luciferase activity assay demonstrated that the AKR1C1 core promoter region was located in the region from -706 to -564, containing two nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) binding sites (antioxidant response elements, AREs). XLOC-2222497 was identified as a nuclear long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) highly expressed in the endometrium. XLOC-2222497 overexpression and knockdown have an effect on the expression of AKR1C1. Endocrinologic measurement showed the difference in progesterone levels between Meishan and Yorkshire pigs. Progesterone treatment upregulated AKR1C1 and XLOC-2222497 expression in porcine endometrial epithelial cells. In conclusion, transcriptome analysis revealed differentially expressed transcripts during the early pregnancy process. Further experiments demonstrated the interaction of XLOC-2222497/AKR1C1/progesterone in the endometrium and provided new potential targets for pregnancy maintenance and its control.
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Dela Justina V, Priviero F, Dos Passos RR, Webb RC, Lima VV, Giachini FR. O-GlcNAc impairs endothelial function in uterine arteries from virgin but not pregnant rats: The role of GSK3β. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 880:173133. [PMID: 32343970 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Increased O-Linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is observed in several pathologies, and unbalanced O-GlcNAcylation levels favor endothelial dysfunction. Whether augmented O-GlcNAc impacts the uterine artery (UA) function and how it affects the UA during pregnancy remains to be elucidated. We hypothesized that glucosamine treatment increases O-GlcNAc, leading to uterine artery dysfunction and this effect is prevented by pregnancy. Pregnant (P) and non-pregnant (NP) Wistar rats were treated with glucosamine (300 mg/kg; i.p.) for 21 days. Concentration response-curves (CRC) to acetylcholine (in the presence or absence of L-NAME) and sodium nitroprusside were performed in UAs. In NP rats, glucosamine treatment increased O-GlcNAc expression in UAs accompanied by decreased endothelium-dependent relaxation, which was abolished by L-NAME. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity and total Akt expression were decreased by glucosamine-treatment in NP rats. Further, NP rats treated with glucosamine displayed increased glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) activation and O-GlcNAc-transferase (OGT) expression in the UA. P rats treated with glucosamine displayed decreased O-GlcNAc in UAs and it was accompanied by improved relaxation to acetylcholine, whereas eNOS and GSK3β activity and total Akt and OGT expression were unchanged. Sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation was not changed in all groups, indicating that glucosamine treatment led to endothelial dysfunction in NP rats. The underlying mechanism is, at least in part, dependent on Akt/GSK3β/OGT modulation. We speculate that during pregnancy, hormonal alterations play a protective role in preventing O-GlcNAcylation-induced endothelial dysfunction in the UAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Dela Justina
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | | | - Rinaldo Rodrigues Dos Passos
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - R Clinton Webb
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Victor Vitorino Lima
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil
| | - Fernanda R Giachini
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, MT, Brazil.
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Roche SL, Kutsyr O, Cuenca N, Cotter TG. Norgestrel, a Progesterone Analogue, Promotes Significant Long-Term Neuroprotection of Cone Photoreceptors in a Mouse Model of Retinal Disease. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3221-3235. [PMID: 31335948 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of inherited blinding retinal diseases, whereby the death of mutated rod photoreceptors is followed closely by the death of cone photoreceptors. Cone cell death can be hugely debilitating as color/daytime vision becomes impaired. Thus, treatments that are effective against cone cell death are urgently needed. Our research has been working toward development of a neuroprotective treatment for RP. We have previously demonstrated significant neuroprotective properties of norgestrel, a progesterone analogue, in the mouse retina. The current study further investigates the potential of norgestrel as a treatment for RP, with a focus on long-term preservation of cone photoreceptors. Methods Using the well-established rd10 mouse model of RP, we administered a norgestrel-supplemented diet at postnatal day (P)30, following widespread loss of rod photoreceptors and at the outset of cone degeneration. We subsequently assessed cone cell morphology and retinal function at P50, P60, and P80, using immunohistochemistry, electroretinograph recordings, and optomotor testing. Results While cone cell degeneration was widespread in the untreated rd10 retina, we observed profound preservation of cone photoreceptor morphology in the norgestrel-treated mice for at least 50 days, out to P80. This was demonstrated by up to 28-fold more cone arrestin-positive photoreceptors. This protection transpired to functional preservation at all ages. Conclusions This work presents norgestrel as an incredibly promising long-term neuroprotective compound for the treatment of RP. Crucially, norgestrel could be used in the mid-late stages of the disease to protect remaining cone cells and help preserve color/daytime vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Roche
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Oksana Kutsyr
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Nicolás Cuenca
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Marquioni-Ramella MD, Cubilla MA, Bermúdez V, Tate PS, Marazita MC, Suburo AM. Glucocorticoid and progesterone mechanisms in photoreceptor survival. Exp Eye Res 2019; 190:107854. [PMID: 31669405 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Death of retinal photoreceptors is the basis of prevalent blinding diseases. Since steroids might have a therapeutic role in retinal degenerations, we compared the protective effects of dexamethasone and progesterone on photoreceptor death induced by mifepristone and light exposure. Therefore, we studied the effective protection doses for each steroid in the two models. In addition, we analyzed changes in the levels of pro- and antiapoptotic molecules, glucocorticoid receptors α and β (GRα and GRβ), and rhodopsin under conditions of successful protection and photoreceptor survival. Mifepristone and light exposure selectively damaged photoreceptors. In light exposed retinas, photoreceptors mainly disappeared in the dorsotemporal region, while mifepristone produced a uniform damage. Dexamethasone and progesterone, at the same dose of 4 mg/kg/day for 2 days, preserved over 88% photoreceptor nuclei in both models. Assessment of cell death regulators showed that, in control retinas, both steroids activated BCL-XL, a prosurvival molecule, and decreased BID, a proapoptotic regulator. After steroid treatment of damaged retinas, BCL-XL, BCL2 and BAX showed characteristic patterns depending on the use of dexamethasone or progesterone on mifepristone or light exposed retinas. By contrast, BID decreased with any injury-steroid combination. Changes in GRα or GRβ levels did not correlate with survival but were consistent with a mechanism of ligand induced downregulation of receptor expression. GRβ might be upregulated by progesterone. Both dexamethasone and progesterone increased retinal rhodopsin stores, suggesting a link between photoreceptor protection and transduction pathways. Results show that dexamethasone and progesterone induced comparable but not identical protection responses in each model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melisa D Marquioni-Ramella
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marisa A Cubilla
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vicente Bermúdez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo S Tate
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariela C Marazita
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Angela M Suburo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Translational (IIMT), Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, CONICET, Pilar, B1629AHJ, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Gandara-Loe J, Ortuño-Lizarán I, Fernández-Sanchez L, Alió JL, Cuenca N, Vega-Estrada A, Silvestre-Albero J. Metal-Organic Frameworks as Drug Delivery Platforms for Ocular Therapeutics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:1924-1931. [PMID: 30561189 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b20222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been evaluated as potential nanocarriers for intraocular incorporation of brimonidine tartrate to treat chronic glaucoma. Experimental results show that UiO-67 and MIL-100 (Fe) exhibit the highest loading capacity with values up to 50-60 wt %, whereas the performance is quite limited for MOFs with narrow cavities (below 0.8 nm, for example, UiO-66 and HKUST-1). The large loading capacity in UiO-67 is accompanied by an irreversible structural amorphization in aqueous and physiological media that promotes extended release kinetics above 12 days. Compared to the traditional drawbacks associated with the sudden release of the commercial drugs (e.g., ALPHAGAN), these results anticipate UiO-67 as a potential nanocarrier for drug delivery in intraocular therapeutics. These promising results are further supported by cytotoxicity tests using retinal photoreceptor cells (661W). Toxicity of these structures (including the metal nodes and organic ligands) for retinal cells is rather low for all samples evaluated, except for HKUST-1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jorge L Alió
- Research and Development Department , VISSUM Corporation , E-03016 Alicante , Spain
| | | | - Alfredo Vega-Estrada
- Research and Development Department , VISSUM Corporation , E-03016 Alicante , Spain
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Kramer J, Chirco KR, Lamba DA. Immunological Considerations for Retinal Stem Cell Therapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1186:99-119. [PMID: 31654387 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-28471-8_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing effort toward generating replacement cells for neuronal application due to the nonregenerative nature of these tissues. While much progress has been made toward developing methodologies to generate these cells, there have been limited improvements in functional restoration. Some of these are linked to the degenerative and often nonreceptive microenvironment that the new cells need to integrate into. In this chapter, we will focus on the status and role of the immune microenvironment of the retina during homeostasis and disease states. We will review changes in both innate and adaptive immunity as well as the role of immune rejection in stem cell replacement therapies. The chapter will end with a discussion of immune-modulatory strategies that have helped to ameliorate these effects and could potentially improve functional outcome for cell replacement therapies for the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kramer
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Deepak A Lamba
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA. .,Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA.
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Pardue MT, Allen RS. Neuroprotective strategies for retinal disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 65:50-76. [PMID: 29481975 PMCID: PMC6081194 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Diseases that affect the eye, including photoreceptor degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, affect 11.8 million people in the US, resulting in vision loss and blindness. Loss of sight affects patient quality of life and puts an economic burden both on individuals and the greater healthcare system. Despite the urgent need for treatments, few effective options currently exist in the clinic. Here, we review research on promising neuroprotective strategies that promote neuronal survival with the potential to protect against vision loss and retinal cell death. Due to the large number of neuroprotective strategies, we restricted our review to approaches that we had direct experience with in the laboratory. We focus on drugs that target survival pathways, including bile acids like UDCA and TUDCA, steroid hormones like progesterone, therapies that target retinal dopamine, and neurotrophic factors. In addition, we review rehabilitative methods that increase endogenous repair mechanisms, including exercise and electrical stimulation therapies. For each approach, we provide background on the neuroprotective strategy, including history of use in other diseases; describe potential mechanisms of action; review the body of research performed in the retina thus far, both in animals and in humans; and discuss considerations when translating each treatment to the clinic and to the retina, including which therapies show the most promise for each retinal disease. Despite the high incidence of retinal diseases and the complexity of mechanisms involved, several promising neuroprotective treatments provide hope to prevent blindness. We discuss attractive candidates here with the goal of furthering retinal research in critical areas to rapidly translate neuroprotective strategies into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Machelle T Pardue
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, 1670 Clairmont Road, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 313 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
| | - Rachael S Allen
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, 1670 Clairmont Road, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA
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Sánchez-Cruz A, Villarejo-Zori B, Marchena M, Zaldivar-DÃez J, Palomo V, Gil C, Lizasoain I, de la Villa P, MartÃnez A, de la Rosa EJ, Hernández-Sánchez C. Modulation of GSK-3 provides cellular and functional neuroprotection in the rd10 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Mol Neurodegener 2018; 13:19. [PMID: 29661219 PMCID: PMC5902946 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-018-0251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of hereditary retinal neurodegenerative conditions characterized by primary dysfunction and death of photoreceptor cells, resulting in visual loss and, eventually, blindness. To date, no effective therapies have been transferred to clinic. Given the diverse genetic etiology of RP, targeting common cellular and molecular retinal alterations has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy. Methods Using the Pde6brd10/rd10 mouse model of RP, we investigated the effects of daily intraperitoneal administration of VP3.15, a small-molecule heterocyclic GSK-3 inhibitor. Gene expression was analyzed by quantitative PCR and protein expression and phosphorylation by Western blot. Photoreceptor preservation was evaluated by histological analysis and visual function was assessed by electroretinography. Results In rd10 retinas, increased expression of pro-inflammatory markers and reactive gliosis coincided with the early stages of retinal degeneration. Compared with wild-type controls, GSK-3β expression (mRNA and protein) remained unchanged during the retinal degeneration period. However, levels of GSK-3βSer9 and its regulator AktSer473 were increased in rd10 versus wild-type retinas. In vivo administration of VP3.15 reduced photoreceptor cell loss and preserved visual function. This neuroprotective effect was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of neuroinflammatory markers. Conclusions These results provide proof of concept of the therapeutic potential of VP3.15 for the treatment of retinal neurodegenerative conditions in general, and RP in particular. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13024-018-0251-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alonso Sánchez-Cruz
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain.,Neurovascular Research Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Villarejo-Zori
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Marchena
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josefa Zaldivar-DÃez
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Valle Palomo
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Gil
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Lizasoain
- Neurovascular Research Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro de la Villa
- Department of Systems Biology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Ana MartÃnez
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique J de la Rosa
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Catalina Hernández-Sánchez
- Departments of Molecular Biomedicine (3D Lab) and Structural and Chemical Biology (IPSBB Unit), Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas-CSIC, C/ Ramiro de Maeztu 9, E-28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Roche SL, Ruiz-Lopez AM, Moloney JN, Byrne AM, Cotter TG. Microglial-induced Müller cell gliosis is attenuated by progesterone in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Glia 2017; 66:295-310. [PMID: 29034506 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Norgestrel, a progesterone analogue, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Neuroprotection is achieved in part through Norgestrels anti-inflammatory properties, alleviating detrimental microglial activity. Gliosis is a feature of many neurodegenerative diseases of the retina, including retinitis pigmentosa. Müller glia, a type of macroglia found in the retina, are major contributors of gliosis, characterized by the upregulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Microglia-Müller glia crosstalk has been implicated in the initiation of gliosis. In the rd10 retina, increased microglial activity and gliotic events are observed prior to the onset of photoreceptor loss. We hypothesized that Norgestrels dampening effects on harmful microglial activity would consequently impact on gliosis. In the current study, we explore the role of microglia-Müller glia crosstalk in degeneration and Norgestrel-mediated neuroprotection in the rd10 retina. Norgestrels neuroprotective effects in the rd10 retina coincide with significant decreases in both microglial activity and Müller cell gliosis. Using a Müller glial cell line, rMC-1, and isolated microglia, we show that rd10 microglia stimulate GFAP production in rMC-1 cells. Norgestrel attenuates gliosis through direct actions on both microglia and Müller glia. Norgestrel reduces the release of harmful stimuli from microglia, such as interferon-γ, which might otherwise signal to Müller glia and stimulate gliosis. We propose that Norgestrel also targets Müller cell gliosis directly, by limiting the availability of pSTAT3, a known transcription factor for GFAP. These findings highlight an important aspect to Norgestrels neuroprotective effects in the diseased retina, in combating Müller cell gliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Roche
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ana M Ruiz-Lopez
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jennifer N Moloney
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ashleigh M Byrne
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Ruiz Lopez AM, Roche SL, Wyse Jackson AC, Moloney JN, Byrne AM, Cotter TG. Pro-survival redox signalling in progesterone-mediated retinal neuroprotection. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 46:1663-1672. [PMID: 28493650 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of hereditary retinal diseases, characterised by photoreceptor cell loss. Despite a substantial understanding of the mechanisms leading to cell death, an effective therapeutic strategy is sought. Our laboratory has previously demonstrated the neuroprotective properties of Norgestrel, a progesterone analogue, in the degenerating retina, mediated in part by the neurotrophic factor basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). In other retinal studies, we have also presented a pro-survival role for reactive oxygen species (ROS), downstream of bFGF. Thus, we hypothesized that Norgestrel utilises bFGF-driven ROS production to promote photoreceptor survival. Using the 661W photoreceptor-like cell line, we now show that Norgestrel, working through progesterone receptor membrane complex 1 (PGRMC1); generates an early burst of pro-survival bFGF-induced ROS. Using the rd10 mouse model of RP, we confirm that Norgestrel induces a similar early pro-survival increase in retinal ROS. Norgestrel-driven protection in the rd10 retina was attenuated in the presence of antioxidants. This study therefore presents an essential role for ROS signalling in Norgestrel-mediated neuroprotection in vitro and demonstrates that Norgestrel employs a similar pro-survival mechanism in the degenerating retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Ruiz Lopez
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sarah L Roche
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Alice C Wyse Jackson
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jennifer N Moloney
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ashleigh M Byrne
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling is critical for progesterone-mediated neuroprotection in the retina. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43067. [PMID: 28216676 PMCID: PMC5316933 DOI: 10.1038/srep43067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) encompasses a group of retinal diseases resulting in photoreceptor loss and blindness. We have previously shown in the rd10 mouse model of RP, that rd10 microglia drive degeneration of viable neurons. Norgestrel, a progesterone analogue, primes viable neurons against potential microglial damage. In the current study we wished to investigate this neuroprotective effect further. We were particularly interested in the role of fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling, previously shown to mediate photoreceptor-microglia crosstalk and promote survival in the rd10 retina. Norgestrel upregulates fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling in the rd10 retina, coinciding with photoreceptor survival. We show that Norgestrel-treated photoreceptor-like cells, 661Ws, and C57 explants modulate rd10 microglial activity in co-culture, resulting in increased photoreceptor survival. Assessment of Norgestrel's neuroprotective effects when fractalkine was knocked-down in 661 W cells and release of fractalkine was reduced in rd10 explants confirms a crucial role for fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling in Norgestrel-mediated neuroprotection. To further understand the role of fractalkine in neuroprotection, we assessed the release of 40 cytokines in fractalkine-treated rd10 microglia and explants. In both cases, treatment with fractalkine reduced a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings further our understanding of Norgestrel's neuroprotective properties, capable of modulating harmful microglial activity indirectly through photoreceptors, leading to increased neuroprotection.
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Wyse-Jackson AC, Roche SL, Ruiz-Lopez AM, Moloney JN, Byrne AM, Cotter TG. Progesterone analogue protects stressed photoreceptors via bFGF-mediated calcium influx. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 44:3067-3079. [PMID: 27763693 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a degenerative retinal disease leading to photoreceptor cell loss. In 2011, our group identified the synthetic progesterone 'Norgestrel' as a potential treatment for RP. Subsequent research showed Norgestrel to work through progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) activation and upregulation of neuroprotective basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Using trophic factor deprivation of 661W photoreceptor-like cells, we aimed to further elucidate the mechanism leading to Norgestrel-induced neuroprotection. In the present manuscript, we show by flow cytometry and live-cell immunofluorescence that Norgestrel induces an increase in cytosolic calcium in both healthy and stressed 661Ws over 24 h. Specific PGRMC1 inhibition by AG205 (1 μm) showed this rise to be PGRMC1-dependent, primarily utilizing calcium from extracellular sources, for blockade of L-type calcium channels by verapamil (50 μm) prevented a Norgestrel-induced calcium influx in stressed cells. Calcium influx was also shown to be bFGF-dependent, for siRNA knock down of bFGF prevented Norgestrel-PGRMC1 induced changes in cytosolic calcium. Notably, we demonstrate PGRMC1-activation is necessary for Norgestrel-induced bFGF upregulation. We propose that Norgestrel protects through the following pathway: binding to and activating PGRMC1 expressed on the surface of photoreceptor cells, PGRMC1 activation drives bFGF upregulation and subsequent calcium influx. Importantly, raised intracellular calcium is critical to Norgestrel's protective efficacy, for extracellular calcium chelation by EGTA abrogates the protective effects of Norgestrel on stressed 661W cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice C Wyse-Jackson
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sarah L Roche
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ana M Ruiz-Lopez
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jennifer N Moloney
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ashleigh M Byrne
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Bioscience Research Institute, University College Cork, Western Road, Cork, Ireland
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16
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Progesterone Attenuates Microglial-Driven Retinal Degeneration and Stimulates Protective Fractalkine-CX3CR1 Signaling. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165197. [PMID: 27814376 PMCID: PMC5096718 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a degenerative disease leading to photoreceptor cell loss. Mouse models of RP, such as the rd10 mouse (B6.CXBl-Pde6brd10/J), have enhanced our understanding of the disease, allowing for development of potential therapeutics. In 2011, our group first demonstrated that the synthetic progesterone analogue ‘Norgestrel’ is neuroprotective in two mouse models of retinal degeneration, including the rd10 mouse. We have since elucidated several mechanisms by which Norgestrel protects stressed photoreceptors, such as upregulating growth factors. This study consequently aimed to further characterize Norgestrel’s neuroprotective effects. Specifically, we sought to investigate the role that microglia might play; for microglial-derived inflammation has been shown to potentiate neurodegeneration. Dams of post-natal day (P) 10 rd10 pups were given a Norgestrel-supplemented diet (80mg/kg). Upon weaning, pups remained on Norgestrel. Tissue was harvested from P15-P50 rd10 mice on control or Norgestrel-supplemented diet. Norgestrel-diet administration provided significant retinal protection out to P40 in rd10 mice. Alterations in microglial activity coincided with significant protection, implicating microglial changes in Norgestrel-induced neuroprotection. Utilizing primary cultures of retinal microglia and 661W photoreceptor-like cells, we show that rd10 microglia drive neuronal cell death. We reveal a novel role of Norgestrel, acting directly on microglia to reduce pro-inflammatory activation and prevent neuronal cell death. Norgestrel effectively suppresses cytokine, chemokine and danger-associated molecular pattern molecule (DAMP) expression in the rd10 retina. Remarkably, Norgestrel upregulates fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling 1 000-fold at the RNA level, in the rd10 mouse. Fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling has been shown to protect neurons by regulating retinal microglial activation and migration. Ultimately, these results present Norgestrel as a promising treatment for RP, with dual actions as a neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agent in the retina.
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Byrne AM, Ruiz-Lopez AM, Roche SL, Moloney JN, Wyse-Jackson AC, Cotter TG. The synthetic progestin norgestrel modulates Nrf2 signaling and acts as an antioxidant in a model of retinal degeneration. Redox Biol 2016; 10:128-139. [PMID: 27744118 PMCID: PMC5065647 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is one of the most common retinal degenerative conditions affecting people worldwide, and is currently incurable. It is characterized by the progressive loss of photoreceptors, in which the death of rod cells leads to the secondary death of cone cells; the cause of eventual blindness. As rod cells die, retinal-oxygen metabolism becomes perturbed, leading to increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thus oxidative stress; a key factor in the secondary death of cones. In this study, norgestrel, an FDA-approved synthetic analog of progesterone, was found to be a powerful neuroprotective antioxidant, preventing light-induced ROS in photoreceptor cells, and subsequent cell death. Norgestrel also prevented light-induced photoreceptor morphological changes that were associated with ROS production, and that are characteristic of RP. Further investigation showed that norgestrel acts via post-translational modulation of the major antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2; bringing about its phosphorylation, subsequent nuclear translocation, and increased levels of its effector protein superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2). In summary, these results demonstrate significant protection of photoreceptor cells from oxidative stress, and underscore the potential of norgestrel as a therapeutic option for RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh M Byrne
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ana M Ruiz-Lopez
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sarah L Roche
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jennifer N Moloney
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Alice C Wyse-Jackson
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Cell Development and Disease Laboratory, Biochemistry Department, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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