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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Poole K, Iyer KS, Schmidtke DW, Petroll WM, Varner VD. Investigating transcriptional differences in mechanotransductive and ECM related genes in cultured primary corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.28.582620. [PMID: 38464034 PMCID: PMC10925317 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.28.582620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
After a stromal injury in the cornea, the release of growth factors and pro-inflammatory cytokines typically results in the activation of quiescent keratocytes toward migratory fibroblast and/or fibrotic myofibroblast phenotypes. The persistence of the myofibroblast phenotype can lead to corneal fibrosis and scarring, which are leading causes of blindness worldwide. The primary goal of this study was to establish comprehensive transcriptional profiles for cultured corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts to gain insights into the mechanisms through which changes in phenotype may occur. Here, we cultured primary rabbit corneal keratocytes on collagen-coated glass coverslips in serum free media (SF), serum containing media (FBS), or in the presence of TGF-β1 to induce keratocyte, fibroblast, and myofibroblast phenotypes, respectively. Total RNA was collected and sent to Novogene for bulk RNA sequencing. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis included gene expression quantification, differential expression, and functional analysis. When comparing FBS and TGF-β1 conditions to SF, genes characteristic of a quiescent keratocyte phenotype were downregulated (e.g. KERA, LUM, ALDH1A1), while genes commonly associated with fibroblasts or myofibroblasts were upregulated (e.g. VIM, TNC, FN1, ITGA5, ACTA2). Functional analysis of genes differentially expressed between fibroblasts and keratocytes highlighted pathways related to proliferation (e.g. DNA replication, PI3K-Akt signaling) and cell migration (e.g. Rap1 signaling, ECM-receptor interactions). Enriched pathways for the comparison of myofibroblasts to keratocytes included focal adhesion, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, hippo signaling, and ECM-receptor interaction pathways. Together, these pathways support changes in cytoskeletal organization, cell contractility, mechanotransduction, and cell-ECM interactions in myofibroblasts compared to keratocytes. Overall, these data demonstrate that there are distinct transcriptional differences between cultured corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts. In our initial analysis, we have identified genes and signaling pathways that may play important roles in keratocyte differentiation, including many related to proliferation, cell mechanical activity, and ECM interactions. Furthermore, our findings reveal novel markers for each cell type as well as possible targets for modulating cell behavior and differentiation to promote physiological corneal wound healing.
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3
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Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
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Gómez SG, Guillem-Marti J, Martín-Gómez H, Mas-Moruno C, Ginebra MP, Gil FJ, Barraquer RI, Manero JM. Titanium Boston keratoprosthesis with corneal cell adhesive and bactericidal dual coating. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213654. [PMID: 37837906 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
The Boston keratoprosthesis (BKPro) is a medical device used to restore vision in complicated cases of corneal blindness. This device is composed by a front plate of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and a backplate usually made of titanium (Ti). Ti is an excellent biomaterial with numerous applications, although there are not many studies that address its interaction with ocular cells. In this regard, despite the good retention rates of the BKPro, two main complications compromise patients' vision and the viability of the prosthesis: imperfect adhesion of the corneal tissue to the upside of the backplate and infections. Thus, in this work, two topographies (smooth and rough) were generated on Ti samples and tested with or without functionalization with a dual peptide platform. This molecule consists of a branched structure that links two peptide moieties to address the main complications associated with BKPro: the well-known RGD peptide in its cyclic version (cRGD) as cell pro-adherent motif and the first 11 residues of lactoferrin (LF1-11) as antibacterial motif. Samples were physicochemically characterized, and their biological response was evaluated in vitro with human corneal keratocytes (HCKs) and against the gram-negative bacterial strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The physicochemical characterization allowed to verify the functionalization in a qualitative and quantitative manner. A higher amount of peptide was anchored to the rough surfaces. The studies performed using HCKs showed increased long-term proliferation on the functionalized samples. Gene expression was affected by topography and peptide functionalization. Roughness promoted α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) overexpression, and the coating notably increased the expression of extracellular matrix components (ECM). Such changes may favour the development of unwanted fibrosis, and thus, corneal haze. In contrast, the combination of the coating with a rough topography decreased the expression of α-SMA and ECM components, which would be desirable for the long-term success of the prosthesis. Regarding the antibacterial activity, the functionalized smooth and rough surfaces promoted the death of bacteria, as well as a perturbation in their wall definition and cellular morphology. Bacterial killing values were 58 % for smooth functionalised and 68 % for rough functionalised samples. In summary, this study suggests that the use of the dual peptide platform with cRGD and LF1-11 could be a good strategy to improve the in vitro and in vivo performance of the rough topography used in the commercial BKPro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia González Gómez
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Guillem-Marti
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Helena Martín-Gómez
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Mas-Moruno
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria-Pau Ginebra
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Gil
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08195 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - José María Manero
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona Tech (UPC), Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE), 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center in Multiscale Science and Engineering, UPC, EEBE, 08019 Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
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Chen Z, Lu X, Mylarapu N, Kuthyar S, Sakhalkar O, Watsky MA. A Method for Eliminating Fibroblast Contamination in Mouse and Human Primary Corneal Epithelial Cell Cultures. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:981-991. [PMID: 37490619 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2241683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was designed to determine if previous approaches to eliminate fibroblast contamination in different cells types would be successful in eliminating fibroblast contamination from human and mouse primary corneal epithelial cell cultures, with the primary goal being to describe a simple, easy, and effective method to culture fibroblast-free primary mouse and human corneal epithelial cell cultures. METHODS Primary human and mouse corneal stromal cells and epithelial cells were isolated and cultured from human corneal rims and mouse corneas, respectively. Several approaches previously used in other tissue types were evaluated using corneal epithelial cells and mixtures of fibroblasts and epithelial cells to determine the most effective purification method. Methods evaluated included 0.25% trypsin-EDTA, low temperature, mitomycin-C, and dispase. Degree of fibroblast contamination was examined using light microscopy evaluation of cell phenotype, immunofluorescence and western blotting using cell type-specific markers. Anti-pancytokeratin (PanCK) was used as the epithelial immunofluorescence label, and anti-α smooth muscle actin (αSMA) as the fibroblast immunofluorescence label. Epithelial western blot antibodies included PanCK, keratin 12, and E-cadherin, while αSMA, collagen 1A1 and collagen 3A1 were used to identify fibroblasts. RESULTS Fibroblast contamination of human and mouse primary cornea epithelial cell cultures was best controlled using the 0.25% trypsin-EDTA method. The other methods examined were not effective at eliminating cornea fibroblast contamination. CONCLUSIONS Trypsin-EDTA digestion is a simple and effective method for controlling fibroblast contamination of cultured primary human and mouse corneal epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Chen
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Xiaowen Lu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Namratha Mylarapu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Sanjana Kuthyar
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Om Sakhalkar
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Mitchell A Watsky
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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Moore BA, Jalilian I, Kim S, Mizutani M, Mukai M, Chang C, Entringer AM, Dhamodaran K, Raghunathan VK, Teixeira LBC, Murphy CJ, Thomasy SM. Collagen crosslinking impacts stromal wound healing and haze formation in a rabbit phototherapeutic keratectomy model. Mol Vis 2023; 29:102-116. [PMID: 37859806 PMCID: PMC10584030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the elastic modulus, keratocyte-fibroblast-myocyte transformation, and haze formation of the corneal stroma following combined phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) and epithelium-off UV-A/riboflavin corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) using an in vivo rabbit model. Methods Rabbits underwent PTK and CXL, PTK only, or CXL 35 days before PTK. Rebound tonometry, Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography, and ultrasound pachymetry were performed on days 7, 14, 21, 42, 70, and 90 post-operatively. Atomic force microscopy, histologic inflammation, and immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were assessed post-mortem. Results Stromal haze formation following simultaneous PTK and CXL was significantly greater than in corneas that received PTK only and persisted for more than 90 days. No significant difference in stromal haze was noted between groups receiving simultaneous CXL and PTK and those receiving CXL before PTK. Stromal inflammation did not differ between groups at any time point, although the intensity of α-SMA over the number of nuclei was significantly greater at day 21 between groups receiving simultaneous CXL and PTK and those receiving CXL before PTK. The elastic modulus was significantly greater in corneas receiving simultaneous CXL and PTK compared with those receiving PTK alone. Conclusions We showed that stromal haze formation and stromal stiffness is significantly increased following CXL, regardless of whether it is performed at or before the time of PTK. Further knowledge of the biophysical cues involved in determining corneal wound healing duration and outcomes will be important for understanding scarring following CXL and for the development of improved therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bret A. Moore
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Soohyun Kim
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Makiko Mizutani
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Madison Mukai
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Connor Chang
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Alec M. Entringer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Kamesh Dhamodaran
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Vijay Krishna Raghunathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Leandro B. C. Teixeira
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Christopher J. Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Sara M. Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA
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Li Q, Wong HL, Ip YL, Chu WY, Li MS, Saha C, Shih KC, Chan YK. Current microfluidic platforms for reverse engineering of cornea. Mater Today Bio 2023; 20:100634. [PMID: 37139464 PMCID: PMC10149412 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100634] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, corneal blindness constitutes 5.1% of global blindness population. Surgical outcomes have been improved significantly in the treatment of corneal blindness. However, corneal transplantation is limited by global shortage of donor tissue, prompting researchers to explore alternative therapies such as novel ocular pharmaceutics to delay corneal disease progression. Animal models are commonly adopted for investigating pharmacokinetics of ocular drugs. However, this approach is limited by physiological differences in the eye between animals and human, ethical issues and poor bench-to-bedside translatability. Cornea-on-a-chip (CoC) microfluidic platforms have gained great attention as one of the advanced in vitro strategies for constructing physiologically representative corneal models. With significant improvements in tissue engineering technology, CoC integrates corneal cells with microfluidics to recapitulate human corneal microenvironment for the study of corneal pathophysiological changes and evaluation of ocular drugs. Such model, in complement to animal studies, can potentially accelerate translational research, in particular the pre-clinical screening of ophthalmic medication, driving clinical treatment advancement for corneal diseases. This review provides an overview of engineered CoC platforms with respect to their merits, applications, and technical challenges. Emerging directions in CoC technology are also proposed for further investigations, to accentuate preclinical obstacles in corneal research.
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Peng Y, Bui CH, Zhang XJ, Chen JS, Tham CC, Chu WK, Chen LJ, Pang CP, Yam JC. The role of EZH2 in ocular diseases: a narrative review. Epigenomics 2023; 15:557-570. [PMID: 37458071 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0147] [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] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2, acting as a catalytic subunit of PRC2 to catalyze lysine 27 in histone H3, induces the suppression of gene expression. EZH2 can regulate cell proliferation and differentiation of retinal progenitors, which are required for physiological retinal development. Meanwhile, an abnormal level of EZH2 has been observed in ocular tumors and other pathological tissues. This review summarizes the current knowledge on EZH2 in retinal development and ocular diseases, including inherited retinal diseases, ocular tumors, corneal injury, cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related retinal degeneration. We highlight the potential of targeting EZH2 as a precision therapeutic target in ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Christine Ht Bui
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Xiu J Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jian S Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410000, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410000, China
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510000, China
| | - Clement C Tham
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Wai K Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Li J Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Chi P Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jason C Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
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Chen J, Mo Q, Long Q, Sheng R, Chen Z, Luo Y, Liu C, Backman LJ, Zhang Y, Zhang W. Hydroxycamptothecin and Substratum Stiffness Synergistically Regulate Fibrosis of Human Corneal Fibroblasts. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:959-967. [PMID: 36705297 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Corneal fibrosis is a common outcome of inappropriate repair associated with trauma or ocular infection. Altered biomechanical properties with increased corneal stiffness is a feature of fibrosis that cause corneal opacities, resulting in severe visual impairment and even blindness. The present study aims to determine the effect of hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) and matrix stiffness on transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced fibrotic processes in human corneal fibroblasts (HTK cells). HTK cells were cultured on substrates with different stiffnesses ("soft", ∼261 kPa; "stiff", ∼2.5 × 103 kPa) and on tissue culture plastic (TCP, ∼106 kPa) and simultaneously treated with or without 1 μg/mL HCPT and 10 ng/mL TGF-β1. We found that HCPT induced decreased cell viability and antiproliferative effects on HTK cells. TGF-β1-induced expression of fibrosis-related genes (FN1, ACTA2) was reduced if the cells were simultaneously treated with HCPT. Substrate stiffness did not affect the expression of fibrosis-related genes. The TGF-β1 induced expression of FN1 on both soft and stiff substrates was reduced if cells were simultaneously treated with HCPT. However, this trend was not seen for ACTA2, i.e., the TGF-β1 induced expression of ACTA2 was not reduced by simultaneous treatment of HCPT in either soft or stiff substrate. Instead, HCPT treatment in the presence of TGF-β1 resulted in increased gene expression of keratocyte phenotype makers (LUM, KERA, AQP1, CHTS6) on both substrate stiffnesses. In addition, the protein expression of keratocyte phenotype makers LUM and ALDH3 was increased in HTK cells simultaneously treated with TGF-β1 and HCPT on stiff substrate as compared to control, i.e., without HCPT. In conclusion, we found that HCPT can reduce TGF-β1-induced fibrosis and promote the keratocyte phenotype in a substrate stiffness dependent manner. Thus, HCPT stimulation might be an approach to stimulate keratocytes in the appropriate healing stage to avoid or reverse fibrosis and achieve more optimal corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Chen
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.,China Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed), Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qingyun Mo
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qiuzi Long
- Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Renwang Sheng
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhixuan Chen
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yifan Luo
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chuanquan Liu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ludvig J Backman
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Anatomy, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 87, Sweden.,Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå SE-901 87, Sweden
| | - Yanan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.,China Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed), Hangzhou 310058, China
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Tu L, Fan Y, Deng Y, Hu L, Sun H, Zheng B, Lu D, Guo C, Zhou L. Production and Anti-Inflammatory Performance of PVA Hydrogels Loaded with Curcumin Encapsulated in Octenyl Succinic Anhydride Modified Schizophyllan as Wound Dressings. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031321. [PMID: 36770985 PMCID: PMC9921521 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Amphiphilic polysaccharides can be used as wall materials and applied to encapsulate hydrophobic active chemicals; moreover, there is significant demand for novel medical high-molecular-weight materials with various functions. In order to prepare amphiphilic schizophyllan (SPG), octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) was chosen to synthesize OSA-modified schizophyllan (OSSPG) using an esterified reaction. The modification of OSSPG was demonstrated through FT-IR and thermal analysis. Moreover, it was found that OSSPG has a better capacity for loading curcumin, and the loading amount was 20 μg/mg, which was 2.6 times higher than that of SPG. In addition, a hydrogel made up of PVA, borax, and C-OSSPG (OSSPG loaded with curcumin) was prepared by means of the one-pot method, based on the biological effects of curcumin and the immune-activating properties of SPG. The mechanical properties and biological activity of the hydrogel were investigated. The experimental results show that the dynamic cross-linking of PVA and borax provided the C-OSSPG/BP hydrogel dressing with exceptional self-healing properties, and it was discovered that the C-OSSPG content increased the hydrogel's swelling and moisturizing properties. In fibroblast cell tests, the cells treated with hydrogel had survival rates of 80% or above. Furthermore, a hydrogel containing C-OSSPG could effectively promote cell migration. Due to the excellent anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, the hydrogel also significantly reduces the generation of inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α and IL-6, and thus has a potential application as a wound dressing medicinal material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Tu
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Guangdong Marubi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yifeng Fan
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yongfei Deng
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Guangdong Marubi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lu Hu
- Guangdong Marubi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
| | - Huaiqing Sun
- Guangdong Marubi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
| | - Bisheng Zheng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Dengjun Lu
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (C.G.); (L.Z.)
| | - Chaowan Guo
- Guangdong Marubi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (C.G.); (L.Z.)
| | - Lin Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Center of Topical Precise Drug Delivery System, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Correspondence: (D.L.); (C.G.); (L.Z.)
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11
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Rozo V, Quan M, Aung T, Kang J, Thomasy SM, Leonard BC. Andrographolide Inhibits Corneal Fibroblast to Myofibroblast Differentiation In Vitro. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12101447. [PMID: 36291655 PMCID: PMC9599903 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal opacification due to fibrosis is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Fibrosis occurs from many causes including trauma, photorefractive surgery, microbial keratitis (infection of the cornea), and chemical burns, yet there is a paucity of therapeutics to prevent or treat corneal fibrosis. This study aimed to determine if andrographolide, a labdane diterpenoid found in Andrographis paniculate, has anti-fibrotic properties. Furthermore, we evaluated if andrographolide could prevent the differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts in vitro, given that the transforming growth factor beta-1(TGF-β1) stimulated persistence of myofibroblasts in the cornea is a primary component of fibrosis. We demonstrated that andrographolide inhibited the upregulation of alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) mRNA and protein in rabbit corneal fibroblasts (RCFs), thus, demonstrating a reduction in the transdifferentiation of myofibroblasts. Immunofluorescent staining of TGF-β1-stimulated RCFs confirmed a dose-dependent decrease in αSMA expression when treated with andrographolide. Additionally, andrographolide was well tolerated in vivo and had no impact on corneal epithelialization in a rat debridement model. These data support future studies investigating the use of andrographolide as an anti-fibrotic in corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Rozo
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Melinda Quan
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Theint Aung
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Jennifer Kang
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Sara M. Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Brian C. Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Correspondence:
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12
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Prittinen J, Zhou X, Bano F, Backman L, Danielson P. Microstructured collagen films for 3D corneal stroma modelling. Connect Tissue Res 2022; 63:443-452. [PMID: 34894951 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2021.2007901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/AIM Corneal injury is a major cause of impaired vision around the globe. The fine structure of the corneal stroma plays a pivotal role in the phenotype and behavior of the embedded cells during homeostasis and healing after trauma or infection. In order to study healing processes in the cornea, it is important to create culture systems that functionally mimic the natural environment. MATERIALS AND METHODS Collagen solution was vitrified on top of a grated film to achieve thin collagen films with parallel microgrooves. Keratocytes (corneal stromal cells) were cultured on the films either as a single layer or as stacked layers of films and cells. SEM and F-actin staining were used to analyze the pattern transference onto the collagen and the cell orientation on the films. Cell viability was analyzed with MTS and live/dead staining. Keratocytes, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts were cultured to study the pattern's effect on phenotype. RESULTS A microstructured collagen film-based culture system that guides keratocytes (stromal cells) to their native, layerwise perpendicular orientation in 3D and that can support fibroblasts and myofibroblasts was created. The films are thin and transparent enough to observe cells at least three layers deep. The cells maintain viability in 2D and 3D cultures and the films can support fibroblast and myofibroblast phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS The films provide an easily reproducible stroma model that maintains high cell viability and improves the preservation of the keratocyte phenotype in keratocytes that are differentiated to fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juha Prittinen
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Fouzia Bano
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ludvig Backman
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Patrik Danielson
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Ophthalmology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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13
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BMP3 inhibits TGFβ2-mediated myofibroblast differentiation during wound healing of the embryonic cornea. NPJ Regen Med 2022; 7:36. [PMID: 35879352 PMCID: PMC9314337 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-022-00232-9] [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: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Often acute damage to the cornea initiates drastic tissue remodeling, resulting in fibrotic scarring that disrupts light transmission and precedes vision impairment. Very little is known about the factors that can mitigate fibrosis and promote scar-free cornea wound healing. We previously described transient myofibroblast differentiation during non-fibrotic repair in an embryonic cornea injury model. Here, we sought to elucidate the mechanistic regulation of myofibroblast differentiation during embryonic cornea wound healing. We found that alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA)-positive myofibroblasts are superficial and their presence inversely correlates with wound closure. Expression of TGFβ2 and nuclear localization of pSMAD2 were elevated during myofibroblast induction. BMP3 and BMP7 were localized in the corneal epithelium and corresponded with pSMAD1/5/8 activation and absence of myofibroblasts in the healing stroma. In vitro analyses with corneal fibroblasts revealed that BMP3 inhibits the persistence of TGFβ2-induced myofibroblasts by promoting disassembly of focal adhesions and αSMA fibers. This was confirmed by the expression of vinculin and pFAK. Together, these data highlight a mechanism to inhibit myofibroblast persistence during cornea wound repair.
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14
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Nishtala K, Panigrahi T, Shetty R, Kumar D, Khamar P, Mohan RR, Deshpande V, Ghosh A. Quantitative Proteomics Reveals Molecular Network Driving Stromal Cell Differentiation: Implications for Corneal Wound Healing. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052572. [PMID: 35269714 PMCID: PMC8910342 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of keratocytes to fibroblasts and myofibroblasts is an essential requisite during corneal wound closure. The aim of this study is to uncover factors involved in differentiation-dependent alteration in the protein profile of human corneal stromal cells using quantitative proteomics. Human corneal fibroblasts were cultured and differentiated into keratocytes in serum-free media and myofibroblasts through treatment with TGF-β. The protein cell lysates from the donors were tryptic and were digested and labeled using a 3-plex iTRAQ kit. The labeled peptides were subjected to LCMS analysis. Biological functional analysis revealed a set of crucial proteins involved in the differentiation of human corneal stromal cells which were found to be significantly enriched. The selected proteins were further validated by immunohistochemistry. Quantitative proteomics identified key differentially expressed proteins which are involved in cellular signaling pathways. Proteins involved in integrin signaling (Ras-RAP1b, TLN and FN) and SLIT-ROBO pathways (PFN1, CAPR1, PSMA5) as well as extracellular matrix proteins (SERPINH1, SPARC, ITGβ1, CRTAP) showed enhanced expression in corneal fibroblasts and myofibroblasts compared to keratocytes, indicating their possible role in wound healing. Corneal stromal cell differentiation is associated with the activation of diverse molecular pathways critical for the repair of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Identified proteins such as profilin 1 and talin could play a tentative role in corneal healing and serve as a potential target to treat corneal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnatej Nishtala
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560099, India; (K.N.); (T.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Trailokyanath Panigrahi
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560099, India; (K.N.); (T.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Rohit Shetty
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore 560010, India; (R.S.); (P.K.)
| | - Dhanananajay Kumar
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560099, India; (K.N.); (T.P.); (D.K.)
| | - Pooja Khamar
- Cornea and Refractive Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore 560010, India; (R.S.); (P.K.)
| | - Rajiv R. Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA;
- Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Vrushali Deshpande
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560099, India; (K.N.); (T.P.); (D.K.)
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore 560099, India; (K.N.); (T.P.); (D.K.)
- Correspondence: (V.D.); (A.G.)
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15
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Burgos-Blasco B, Vidal-Villegas B, Saenz-Frances F, Fernandez-Vigo JI, Andres-Guerrero V, Espino L, Garcia-Feijoo J, Martinez-de-la-Casa JM. Cytokine profile in tear and aqueous humor of primary open-angle patients as a prognostic factor for trabeculectomy outcome. Eur J Ophthalmol 2021; 32:2994-3004. [PMID: 34812085 DOI: 10.1177/11206721211055965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cytokine profile in tear and aqueous humor in primary open-angle glaucoma before trabeculectomy and correlate preoperative cytokine levels with the surgical outcome. METHODS Prospective study. Twenty-nine patients with primary open-angle glaucoma undergoing primary trabeculectomy were included. Levels of 27 cytokines were measured in tear an aqueous humor using the Bio-Plex Pro Human Cytokine 27-Plex Immunoassay kit (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, CA, USA). RESULTS 29 patients who underwent trabeculectomy were included and their first-year follow-up visits were recorded. Mean age was 76.0 ± 7.0 years (range 56-84), mean intraocular pressure was 18.2 ± 3.6 mmHg and mean number of topical medications was 2.3 ± 0.9. At the one-year visit, 5 patients were classified as surgical failure. In aqueous humor, preoperative cytokine levels of regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) were significantly higher in those patients with surgical failure at one year. IL-8 in tear and interferon gamma-induced protein (IP-10) in aqueous humor correlated positively with one-year IOP reduction. No statistically significant correlations were found with changes in visual field mean defect or global peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (all, p >0.05). CONCLUSIONS Preoperative RANTES levels in aqueous humor as well as other cytokines could serve as useful biomarkers for trabeculectomy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Burgos-Blasco
- Servicio de Oftalmología, 16267Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Vidal-Villegas
- Servicio de Oftalmología, 16267Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Federico Saenz-Frances
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Departamento de Inmunología, Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose I Fernandez-Vigo
- Servicio de Oftalmología, 16267Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanessa Andres-Guerrero
- Servicio de Oftalmología, 16267Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Espino
- Servicio de Inmunología, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julian Garcia-Feijoo
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Departamento de Inmunología, Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M Martinez-de-la-Casa
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Departamento de Inmunología, Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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16
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Kim S, Gates BL, Chang M, Pinkerton KE, Van Winkle L, Murphy CJ, Leonard BC, Demokritou P, Thomasy SM. Transcorneal delivery of topically applied silver nanoparticles does not delay epithelial wound healing. NANOIMPACT 2021; 24:100352. [PMID: 35559825 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a common antimicrobial additive for a variety of applications, including wound care. However, AgNPs often undergo dissolution resulting in release of silver ions, with subsequent toxicity to mammalian cells. The cornea is a primary exposure site to topically administered AgNPs in and around the eye but their impact on corneal wound healing is understudied. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine in vitro toxicity of AgNPs on corneal epithelial cells and fibroblasts as well as their effects on corneal epithelial wound healing utilizing an in vivo rabbit model. Non-coated 20 nm sized AgNP (AgNP-20) as well as 1% and 10% silver silica NPs (AgSiO2NPs) were tested at concentrations ranging from 0.05-250 μg/mL. Immortalized human corneal epithelial (hTCEpi) cells and primary rabbit corneal fibroblasts (RCFs) were incubated for 24 h with AgNPs and cell viability was tested. Additionally, a round wound healing assay was performed to determine hTCEpi cell migration. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analysis was performed to determine α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA, a myofibroblast marker) mRNA and protein expression, respectively, in RCFs treated with 50 μg/mL of AgNPs. Corneal epithelial wound healing was evaluated with 1%-AgSiO2NPs (10 and 250 μg/mL) using an in vivo rabbit model. Rabbits were subsequently euthanized, and histologic sections of the enucleated globes were used to determine corneal penetration of 1%-AgSiO2NPs with autometallography and hyperspectral darkfield microscopy. Cell viability of both the hTCEpi cells and fibroblasts was significantly decreased by the three AgNPs in a dose dependent manner. Migration of hTCEpi cells was significantly inhibited by the three AgNPs. Alpha-SMA mRNA expression was significantly inhibited with three AgNPs, but only the 1%-AgSiO2NPs inhibited protein expression of α-SMA. In vivo epithelial wound closure did not significantly differ between groups treated with 10 or 250 μg/mL of 1%-AgSiO2NPs or vehicle control. The 1%-AgSiO2NPs penetrated throughout all corneal layers and into the anterior chamber in all treated eyes with no histopathological changes observed. In conclusion, the 1%-AgSiO2NPs are safe and have potential therapeutic applications through its efficacy of the corneal penetration and reduced scar formation during corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soohyun Kim
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Brooke L Gates
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Maggie Chang
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kent E Pinkerton
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Laura Van Winkle
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, HSPH-NIEHS Nanosafety Center, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 665 Huntington, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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17
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Wehrman RF, Genschel U, Charli A, Kanthasamy AG, Allbaugh RA, Ben-Shlomo G. Interleukin-6 and lactate dehydrogenase expression in a novel ex vivo rocking model of equine corneal epithelial wound healing. Vet Ophthalmol 2021; 24:509-519. [PMID: 34553825 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12935] [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: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To establish a physiologically relevant ex vivo model of equine corneal epithelial wound healing. METHODS Fourteen equine corneas were randomly assigned to one of two groups: wounded (n = 8) or unwounded (n = 6) controls. In the wounded group, the axial corneal epithelium was removed by applying a 6 mm filter paper disk soaked in 1N-NaOH for 60 s. Corneas were subsequently cultured using an air-liquid interface model. Evaluation of corneal healing was performed daily, and culture medium was collected. Corneas were randomly assigned to undergo processing via histopathology and RNAscope in situ hybridization for interleukin-6 (IL-6) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression at T24, T48, and T72 h after wounding. Media of the cultured corneas were evaluated for the presence of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) by a colorimetric assay. RESULTS The ulcerated area of the wounded corneas decreased over time and all corneas healed within 72 h. Histologically, normal corneal architecture was observed including healthy epithelium (in areas other than the ulcerated ones), minimal stromal edema, intact endothelium, and Descemet's membrane. IL-6 expression was increased in wounded corneas compared with unwounded controls. LDH expression was elevated for both wounded and unwounded corneas at T24 but decreased substantially and was not detected at T48 in media from wounded and unwounded corneas, respectively. No αSMA expression was detected from either wounded or unwounded corneas. CONCLUSIONS The equine air-liquid interface, ex vivo, corneal epithelial wound healing model is effective and physiologically relevant. This model can be used in future studies evaluating various corneal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Fay Wehrman
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Ulrike Genschel
- Department of Statistics, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Adhithiya Charli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Anumantha G Kanthasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Rachel Anne Allbaugh
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Gil Ben-Shlomo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA.,Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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18
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Brown ME, Montgomery ML, Kamath MM, Nicholas S, Liu Y, Karamichos D, Fuller KK. A novel 3D culture model of fungal keratitis to explore host-pathogen interactions within the stromal environment. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108581. [PMID: 33865843 PMCID: PMC9220295 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) pathology is driven by both fungal growth and inflammation within the corneal stroma. Standard in vitro infection models ̶ involving co-culture of the pathogen and the corneal cells in tissue culture medium ̶ are sufficient to probe host responses to the fungus; however, they lack the physiological structure and nutrient composition of the stroma to accurately study fungal invasiveness and metabolic processes. We therefore sought to develop a culture model of FK that would allow for both host and fungal cell biology to be evaluated in parallel. Towards this end, we employed a previously described system in which primary human cornea fibroblasts (HCFs) are cultured on transwell membranes, whereupon they secrete a three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrix that resembles the human stroma. We demonstrated that two common mold agents of FK, Fusarium petroliphilum and Aspergillus fumigatus, penetrated into these constructs and caused a disruption of the collagen matrix that is characteristic of infection. HCF morphology appeared altered in the presence of fungus and electron microscopy revealed a clear internalization of fungal spores into these cells. Consistent with this apparent phagocyte-like activity of the HCFs, mRNA and protein levels for several pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines (including TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) were significantly upregulated compared to uninfected samples. We similarly found an upregulation of several HCF metalloproteases (MMPs), which are enzymes that breakdown collagen during wound healing and may further activate pro-inflammatory signaling molecules. Finally, several fungal collagenase genes were upregulated during growth in the constructs relative to growth in tissue culture media alone, suggesting a fungal metabolic shift towards protein catabolism. Taken together, our results indicate that this 3D-stromal model provides a physiologically relevant system to study host and fungal cell pathobiology during FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina E Brown
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Micaela L Montgomery
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Manali M Kamath
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sarah Nicholas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | - Kevin K Fuller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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Mutoji KN, Sun M, Elliott G, Moreno IY, Hughes C, Gesteira TF, Coulson-Thomas VJ. Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Remodeling after Corneal Alkali Burn in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5708. [PMID: 34071909 PMCID: PMC8199272 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal transparency relies on the precise arrangement and orientation of collagen fibrils, made of mostly Type I and V collagen fibrils and proteoglycans (PGs). PGs are essential for correct collagen fibrillogenesis and maintaining corneal homeostasis. We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and PGs after a chemical injury. The chemical composition of chondroitin sulfate (CS)/dermatan sulfate (DS) and heparan sulfate (HS) were characterized in mouse corneas 5 and 14 days after alkali burn (AB), and compared to uninjured corneas. The expression profile and corneal distribution of CS/DSPGs and keratan sulfate (KS) PGs were also analyzed. We found a significant overall increase in CS after AB, with an increase in sulfated forms of CS and a decrease in lesser sulfated forms of CS. Expression of the CSPGs biglycan and versican was increased after AB, while decorin expression was decreased. We also found an increase in KS expression 14 days after AB, with an increase in lumican and mimecan expression, and a decrease in keratocan expression. No significant changes in HS composition were noted after AB. Taken together, our study reveals significant changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix following a corneal chemical injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazadi N. Mutoji
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
| | - Mingxia Sun
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
| | - Garrett Elliott
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
| | - Isabel Y. Moreno
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
| | - Clare Hughes
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK;
| | - Tarsis F. Gesteira
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
- Optimvia, Batavia, OH 45103, USA
| | - Vivien J. Coulson-Thomas
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (K.N.M.); (M.S.); (G.E.); (I.Y.M.); (T.F.G.)
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Effect of prolactin on normal and keratoconus human corneal stromal fibroblasts in vitro. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249344. [PMID: 33793669 PMCID: PMC8016287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To examine the effect of prolactin (PRL) on human corneal stromal fibroblasts (CSFs), derived from healthy individuals and from keratoconus (KC) patients, in vitro, specifically assessing physiological and elevated PRL concentrations as apparent during pregnancy. Methods Eye bank corneas of 3 female and 3 male healthy individuals as well as the corneal buttons of 3 female and 3 male KC patients were utilized for this study. The endothelium of the cornea was removed with sterile surgical scalpels, the probes were washed repeatedly with Dulbecco’s PBS and corneoscleral rims were trimmed off. Subsequently the corneal stroma was digested with collagenase type I and the harvested CSFs were cultured. We then examined (1) cell proliferation, (2) cell viability and (3) cytokine release of CSFs upon exposure to prolactin in vitro. Results With respect to viability and proliferation our experiments did not show significant differences between CSFs exposed to different PRL concentrations. Our data show a significantly lower IL-8 concentration in normal CSFs exposed to 10ng/ml PRL compared to 0ng/ml and 1000ng/ml at 5 hours post exposition. Moreover, we can report significantly lower secretion of IL-8, IL-6, HGF, VEGF and FGFb in KC CSFs compared to normal CSFs, independent of PRL exposure, as determined by cytokine ELISA. Conclusion Our data in part points towards corneal cytokine secretion as a possible link between altered stromal PRL concentrations and KC progression. However, in our small dataset a significant influence of PRL concentration on cytokine secretion can only be described for IL-8 in normal CSFs. Further our results contribute to existing reports on the importance of cytokines in KC development, with an emphasis on significantly lower cytokine secretion in KC CSFs compared to normal controls.
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Wang X, Chung L, Hooks J, Maestas DR, Lebid A, Andorko JI, Huleihel L, Chin AF, Wolf M, Remlinger NT, Stepp MA, Housseau F, Elisseeff JH. Type 2 immunity induced by bladder extracellular matrix enhances corneal wound healing. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/16/eabe2635. [PMID: 33863719 PMCID: PMC8051883 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe2635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The avascular nature of cornea tissue limits its regenerative potential, which may lead to incomplete healing and formation of scars when damaged. Here, we applied micro- and ultrafine porcine urinary bladder matrix (UBM) particulate to promote type 2 immune responses in cornea wounds. Results demonstrated that UBM particulate substantially reduced corneal haze formation as compared to the saline-treated group. Flow cytometry and gene expression analysis showed that UBM particulate suppressed the differentiation of corneal stromal cells into α-smooth muscle actin-positive (αSMA+) myofibroblasts. UBM treatments up-regulated interleukin-4 (IL-4) produced primarily by eosinophils in the wounded corneas and CD4+ T cells in draining lymph nodes, suggesting a cross-talk between local and peripheral immunity. Gata1-/- mice lacking eosinophils did not respond to UBM treatment and had impaired wound healing. In summary, stimulating type 2 immune responses in the wounded cornea can promote proregenerative environments that lead to improved wound healing for vision restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokun Wang
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Liam Chung
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Joshua Hooks
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - David R Maestas
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Andriana Lebid
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - James I Andorko
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Luai Huleihel
- ACell Inc., Columbia, MD 21046, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Alexander F Chin
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Matthew Wolf
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunometabolism, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | | | - Mary Ann Stepp
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington DC 20037, USA
| | - Franck Housseau
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Jennifer H Elisseeff
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.
- Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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Clinicopathologic Correlations of Retrocorneal Membranes Associated With Endothelial Corneal Graft Failure. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 222:24-33. [PMID: 32810471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide clinicopathologic correlations for retrocorneal membranes associated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) failure. DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS The specimens and medical records of the patients diagnosed with clinically significant retrocorneal membranes associated with DSAEK failure at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute or the University of Miami Veterans Hospital between October 2015 and March 2020 were reviewed for demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, and surgeries performed. Histopathologic analysis was performed on hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff sections. Immunohistochemical studies were performed for smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), pancytokeratin, and CK7. Immunofluorescence was performed for vimentin, N-cadherin, ROCK1, RhoA, ZEB1, and Snail. RESULTS A total of 7 patients (3 male and 4 female) were identified to have a clinically significant retrocorneal membranes at the time of graft failure. The average age at the time of first DSAEK was 70 years (range: 55-85 years). All patients were pseudophakic and had a glaucoma drainage device in place; 1 had a history of failed DSAEK. Ranging from 0 to 47 months after surgery, a variably thick retrocorneal fibrous membrane was observed, eventually leading to graft failure. Four patients underwent subsequent penetrating keratoplasty and 3 underwent repeat DSAEK. On histopathologic evaluation, a pigmented fibrocellular tissue was identified along the posterior margin of the corneas and DSAEK buttons in all cases. Further characterization with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence demonstrated membranes to be negative for pancytokeratin and positive for α-SMA, vimentin, CK7, N-cadherin, ZEB1, Snail, ROCK1, and RhoA. CONCLUSIONS Fibrocellular retrocorneal membrane proliferation may be associated with DSAEK failure in patients with previous glaucoma drainage device surgery. Our results demonstrate myofibroblastic differentiation and a lack of epithelial differentiation. Positivity for markers of an endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition indicates possible endothelial origin and could be the hallmark for future targeted pharmacotherapy.
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Chameettachal S, Prasad D, Parekh Y, Basu S, Singh V, Bokara KK, Pati F. Prevention of Corneal Myofibroblastic Differentiation In Vitro Using a Biomimetic ECM Hydrogel for Corneal Tissue Regeneration. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:533-544. [PMID: 35014304 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c01112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Corneal scarring is one of the major causes of blindness, affecting millions worldwide. Despite recent advancements in surgical strategies, there is an unmet need for a clinically feasible material and methods to prevent scarring following corneal injury. In this study, we report the potential utility of a hydrogel derived from cadaveric animal corneas, using a decellularized corneal matrix hydrogel (abbreviated as dCMH), which is prepared by a simple method. This hydrogel is easily injectable, biocompatible, and has the ability to maintain good shape-retention properties at 37 °C, which make it suitable for in vivo applications. Furthermore, our gene expression studies and immunofluorescence studies indicate that dCMH maintains the morphology and function of keratocytes in vitro and prevents their transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts. From the above results, it is evident that dCMH maintains the keratocytes with the ability to regenerate the corneal defect without scar. We thus suggest a simple yet effective approach for corneal tissue decellularization and that dCMH can be a promising material for prophylaxis against blinding scar formation in an injured cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibu Chameettachal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | - Deeksha Prasad
- SSR-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Center for Regenerative Ophthalmology, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India
| | - Yash Parekh
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- SSR-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Center for Regenerative Ophthalmology, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India.,Centre for Ocular Regeneration (CORE), L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- SSR-Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Center for Regenerative Ophthalmology, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India.,Centre for Ocular Regeneration (CORE), L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India
| | - Kiran Kumar Bokara
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India
| | - Falguni Pati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
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Xiao YT, Xie HT, Liu X, Duan CY, Qu JY, Zhang MC, Zhao XY. Subconjunctival Injection of Transdifferentiated Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells for Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency in Rats. J Histochem Cytochem 2020; 69:177-190. [PMID: 33345682 DOI: 10.1369/0022155420980071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rat limbal niche cells (LNCs) have been proven to induce transdifferentiation of oral mucosal epithelial cells (OMECs) into corneal epithelial-like cells termed transdifferentiated oral mucosal epithelial cells (T-OMECs). This investigation aimed to evaluate the effect of subconjunctival T-OMEC injections on alkali-induced limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) in rats. LNCs were cocultured with OMECs in the Transwell system to obtain T-OMECs, with NIH-3T3 cells serving as a control. Subconjunctival injection of single T-OMEC or OMEC suspension was performed immediately after corneal alkali injury. T-OMECs were prelabeled with the fluorescent dye CM-DiI in vitro and tracked in vivo. Corneal epithelial defect, opacity, and neovascularization were quantitatively analyzed. The degree of corneal epithelial defect (from day 1 onward), opacity (from day 5 onward), and neovascularization (from day 2 onward) was significantly less in the T-OMEC group than in the OMEC group. Cytokeratin 12 (CK12), pigment epithelium-derived factor, and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 were expressed at a higher rate following T-OMEC injection. Some CM-DiI-labeled cells were found to be coexpressed with CK12, Pax6, and ΔNp63α in the corneal epithelium after subconjunctival injection. Subconjunctival injection of T-OMECs prevents conjunctival invasion and maintains a normal corneal phenotype, which might be a novel strategy in the treatment of LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing-Yu Qu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Jeon KI, Huxlin KR. How scars shape the neural landscape: Key molecular mediators of TGF-β1's anti-neuritogenic effects. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234950. [PMID: 33232327 PMCID: PMC7685464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Following injury to the peripheral and central nervous systems, tissue levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 often increase, which is key for wound healing and scarring. However, active wound regions and scars appear to inhibit process outgrowth by regenerating neurons. We recently showed that corneal wound myofibroblasts block corneal nerve regeneration in vivo, and sensory neurite outgrowth in vitro in a manner that relies critically on TGF-β1. In turn, delayed, abnormal re-innervation contributes to long-term sensory dysfunctions of the ocular surface. Here, we exposed morphologically and biochemically-differentiated sensory neurons from the ND7/23 cell line to TGF-β1 to identify the intracellular signals regulating these anti-neuritogenic effects, contrasting them with those of Semaphorin(Sema)3A, a known inhibitor of neurite outgrowth. Neuronal morphology was quantified using phase-contrast imaging. Western blotting and specific inhibitors were then used to identify key molecular mediators. Differentiated ND7/23 cells expressed neuron-specific markers, including those involved in neurite extension and polarization. TGF-β1 increased phosphorylation of collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2), a molecule that is key for neurite extension. We now show that both glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β and Smad3 modulate phosphorylation of CRMP2 after treatment with TGF-β1. GSK-3β appeared to exert a particularly strong effect, which could be explained by its ability to phosphorylate not only CRMP2, but also Smad3. In conclusion, TGF-β1's inhibition of neurite outgrowth in sensory neurons appears to be regulated through a highly-conserved signaling pathway, which involves the GSK-3β/CRMP-2 loop via both canonical and non-canonical mechanisms. It is hoped that by defining the signaling pathways that control neurite outgrowth in wound environments, it will become possible to identify optimal molecular targets to promote re-innervation following injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kye-Im Jeon
- The Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America
- The Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America
| | - Krystel R. Huxlin
- The Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America
- The Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America
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Kwok SS, Wong FSY, Shih KC, Chan YK, Bu Y, Chan TCY, Ng ALK, Lo ACY, Tong L, Yam GHF, Jhanji V. Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide Suppresses Expression of Fibrotic Proteins in Primary Human Corneal Fibroblasts. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113572. [PMID: 33171906 PMCID: PMC7694544 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Objective: To study the anti-fibrotic effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on corneal stromal fibroblasts and assess LBP’s effect on cell viability. (2) Methods: Primary human corneal keratocytes of passage 3 to 6 were used for all experiments. Cells are pretreated with LBP solution for 24 h and then transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) for 48 h and collected for experiments. Fibrotic protein analysis was performed using immunofluorescence and Western blot. The effect of LBP on cell viability was assessed using the MTS assay. (3) Results: LBP significantly reduced the expression of fibrotic proteins, including α-SMA and extracellular matrix proteins (collagen type I and III). LBP significantly decreased the viability of myofibroblasts but not the fibroblasts. Conclusions: In this study, LBP was effective in the prevention of fibrosis gene expression. Further studies to assess the underlying mechanism and pharmacological properties will facilitate the formation of a topical LBP solution for in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sum Sum Kwok
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Francisca Siu-Yin Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Kendrick Co Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Yau-Kei Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Yashan Bu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Tommy Chung-Yan Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Alex Lap-Ki Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Amy Cheuk-Yin Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong, China; (S.S.K.); (F.S.-Y.W.); (Y.-K.C.); (Y.B.); (T.C.-Y.C.); (A.L.-K.N.); (A.C.-Y.L.)
| | - Louis Tong
- Cornea and External Eye Disease Service, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore;
- Ocular Surface Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Gary Hin-Fai Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (G.H.-F.Y.); (V.J.)
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; (G.H.-F.Y.); (V.J.)
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Mahmoud DB, Afifi SA, El Sayed NS. Crown Ether Nanovesicles (Crownsomes) Repositioned Phenytoin for Healing of Corneal Ulcers. Mol Pharm 2020; 17:3952-3965. [PMID: 32845650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.0c00742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Drug repositioning is an important drug development strategy as it saves the time and efforts exerted in drug discovery. Since reepithelization of the cornea is a critical problem, we envisioned that the anticonvulsant phenytoin sodium can promote reepithelization of corneal ulcers as it was repurposed for skin wound healing. Herein, our aim is to develop novel crown ether-based nanovesicles "Crownsomes" of phenytoin sodium for ocular delivery with minimal drug-induced irritation and enhanced efficacy owing to "host-guest" properties of crown ethers. Crownsomes were successfully fabricated using span-60 and 18-crown-6 and their size, morphology, polydispersity index, ζ potential, drug loading efficiency, conductivity, and drug release were characterized. Crownsomes exhibited favorable properties such as formation of spherical nanovesicles of 280 ± 18 nm and -26.10 ± 1.21 mV surface charges. Crownsomes depicted a high entrapment efficiency (77 ± 5%) with enhanced and controlled-release pattern of phenytoin sodium. The optimum crownsomes formulation ameliorated ex vivo corneal drug permeability (1.78-fold than drug suspension) through the corneal calcium extraction ability of 18-crown-6. In vivo study was conducted utilizing an alkali-induced corneal injury rabbit model. Clinical and histopathological examination confirmed that crownsomes exhibited better biocompatibility and minimal irritation due to complex formation and drug shielding. Further, they enhanced corneal healing, indicating their effectiveness as a novel drug delivery system for ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina B Mahmoud
- Pharmaceutics Department, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza 12654, Egypt
| | - Samar A Afifi
- Pharmaceutics Department, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza 12654, Egypt
| | - Nesrine S El Sayed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
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Zhang L, Yuan Y, Yeh LK, Dong F, Zhang J, Okada Y, Kao WWY, Liu CY, Zhang Y. Excess Transforming Growth Factor-α Changed the Cell Properties of Corneal Epithelium and Stroma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:20. [PMID: 32668000 PMCID: PMC7425719 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study is to investigate the corneal anomaly caused by excess transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α) during mouse development. Methods Bitransgenic KeraRT/TGF-α mice, generated via cross-mating tetO-TGF-α and KeraRT mice, were induced to overexpress TGF-α by doxycycline commencing at embryonic day 0 or postnatal day 0 to different developmental stages. Bitransgenic mice with doxycycline induction were defined as TGF-αECK mice (TGF-α excess expression by corneal keratocytes). Mouse eyes were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescent staining and transmission electron microscopy. Protein and RNA from mouse cornea were subjected to western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results In TGF-αECK mice, TGF-α overexpression resulted in corneal opacity. Excess TGF-α initially caused corneal epithelial hyperplasia and subsequent epithelium degeneration as the mouse developed, which was accompanied by gradually diminished K12 expression from the periphery of corneal epithelium and increased K13 expression toward the corneal center. Interestingly, K14 was detected in all layers of corneal epithelium of TGF-αECK mice, whereas it was limited at basal layer of controls. Transmission electron microscopy showed desmosome loss between corneal epithelial cells of TGF-αECK mice. In TGF-αECK mice, keratocan expression was abolished; α-SMA expression was increased while expression of Col1a1, Col1a2, and Col5a1 was diminished. Cell proliferation increased in the corneal epithelium and stroma, but not in the endothelium of TGF-αECK mice. Conclusions Excess TGF-α had detrimental effects on corneal morphogenesis during mouse development in that it changed the cell fate of corneal epithelial cells to assume conjunctival phenotypic expression of K13, and keratocytes to myofibroblast phenotype.
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Qin L, Gao H, Xiong S, Jia Y, Ren L. Preparation of collagen/cellulose nanocrystals composite films and their potential applications in corneal repair. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2020; 31:55. [PMID: 32504216 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-020-06386-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
As the main component of the natural cornea, collagen (COL) has been widely applied to the construction of corneal repair materials. However, the applications of collagen are limited due to its poor mechanical properties. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) possess excellent mechanical properties, optical transparency and good biocompatibility. Therefore, in this study, we attempted to introduce cellulose nanocrystals into collagen-based films to obtain corneal repair materials with a high strength. CNCs were incorporated at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 wt%. The physical properties of these composite films were characterized, and in vitro cell-based analyses were also performed. The COL/CNC films possessed better mechanic properties, and the introduction of CNCs did not affect the water content and light transmittance. The COL/CNC films demonstrated good biocompatibility toward rabbit corneal epithelial cells and keratocytes in vitro. Moreover, the collagen films with appropriate ration of CNCs effectively induced the migration of corneal epithelial cells and inhibited the myofibroblast differentiation of keratocytes. A collagen film with 7 wt% CNCs displayed the best combination of physical properties and biological performance in vitro among all the films. This study describes a nonchemical cross-linking method to enhance the mechanical properties of collagen for use in corneal repair materials and highlights potential application in corneal tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanfeng Qin
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Huichang Gao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Sijia Xiong
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Yongguang Jia
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Li Ren
- National Engineering Research Centre for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China.
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510005, China.
- Sino-Singapore International Joint Research Institute, Guangzhou, 510555, China.
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Kim S, Jalilian I, Thomasy SM, Bowman MAW, Raghunathan VK, Song Y, Reinhart-King CA, Murphy CJ. Intrastromal Injection of Hyaluronidase Alters the Structural and Biomechanical Properties of the Corneal Stroma. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:21. [PMID: 32821518 PMCID: PMC7409307 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.6.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are important components of the corneal stroma, and their spatiotemporal arrangement regulates the organization of collagen fibrils and maintains corneal transparency. This study was undertaken to determine the consequences of hyaluronidase (HAse) injected into the corneal stroma on stromal stiffness and ultrastructure. Methods Equal volumes of HAse or balanced salt solution (vehicle) were injected intrastromally into the corneas of New Zealand white rabbits. Ophthalmic examination and multimodal imaging techniques, including Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM), were performed at multiple time points to evaluate the impact of HAse treatment in vivo. Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to measure corneal stiffness and collagen's interfibrillar spacing, respectively. Results Central corneal thickness progressively decreased after HAse injection, reaching its lowest value at day 7, and then returned to normal by day 42. The HAse did not impact the corneal endothelium but transiently altered keratocyte morphology at days 1 and 7, as measured by IVCM. HAse-injected corneas became stiffer by day 1 postinjection, were stiffest at day 7, and returned to preinjection values by day 90. Changes in stromal stiffness correlated with decreased interfibrillar spacing as measured by TEM. Conclusions Degradation of GAGs by HAse decreases the corneal thickness and increases stromal stiffness through increased packing of the collagen fibrils in a time-dependent manner. Translational Relevance Intrastromal HAse injection appears relatively safe in the normal cornea, but its impact on corneal biomechanics and structure under pathologic conditions requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soohyun Kim
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Morgan A W Bowman
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Vijay Krishna Raghunathan
- Department of Basic Science, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yeonju Song
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Cynthia A Reinhart-King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the corneal wound healing response after small incision lenticule extraction surgery. METHODS Small incision lenticule extraction was performed in both eyes of 12 New Zealand White rabbits. The refractive spherical correction was set at -6.00 D. Two animals were analyzed at each time point (1 hour, 4 hours, 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, and 28 days). The corneas were evaluated using slit-lamp and in vivo confocal microscopy. After euthanatization, the corneal tissues were subjected to light microscopy, transferase 2'-Deoxyuridine 5'-Triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling assay, and immunofluorescence microscopy (CD11b, fibronectin, tenascin, alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA]). RESULTS The corneas did not show any opacity at any time point except at the side-cut incision. By contrast, there was obvious scar tissue at the side-cut incision. Scattered, hyperreflective spots were seen by confocal microscopy from 1 hour postoperatively. Transferase dUTP nick end labeling-positive keratocytes were abundant near the femtosecond laser incision area at 1 hour and reached a peak at 4 hours postoperatively and then decreased. Inflammatory cells migrated from the incision into the central cornea, and this process began 1 hour after surgery and peaked at 7 days. Extracellular matrix components were deposited at the beginning of day 1 postoperatively, and the distribution pattern differed between the central cornea and the incision site. α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts were only detected at the side-cut incision. CONCLUSIONS The scar tissue response in the peripheral cornea is related to the epithelium debridement. Inflammatory cells begin to be recruited by 1 hour after surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to implement antiinflammation interventions at a very early stage.
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Corneal Epithelial-Stromal Fibroblast Constructs to Study Cell-Cell Communication in Vitro. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:bioengineering6040110. [PMID: 31817298 PMCID: PMC6956392 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6040110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell–cell communication plays a fundamental role in mediating corneal wound healing following injury or infection. Depending on the severity of the wound, regeneration of the cornea and the propensity for scar development are influenced by the acute resolution of the pro-fibrotic response mediated by closure of the wound via cellular and tissue contraction. Damage of the corneal epithelium, basement membrane, and anterior stroma following a superficial keratectomy is known to lead to significant provisional matrix deposition, including secretion of fibronectin and thrombospondin-1, as well as development of a corneal scar. In addition, corneal wounding has previously been shown to promote release of extracellular vesicles from the corneal epithelium, which, in addition to soluble factors, may play a role in promoting tissue regeneration. In this study, we report the development and characterization of a co-culture system of human corneal epithelial cells and corneal stromal fibroblasts cultured for 4 weeks to allow extracellular matrix deposition and tissue maturation. The secretion of provisional matrix components, as well as small and large extracellular vesicles, was apparent within the constructs, suggesting cell–cell communication between epithelial and stromal cell populations. Laminin-1β was highly expressed by the corneal epithelial layer with the presence of notable patches of basement membrane identified by transmission electron microscopy. Interestingly, we identified expression of collagen type III, fibronectin, and thrombospondin-1 along the epithelial–stromal interface similar to observations seen in vivo following a keratectomy, as well as expression of the myofibroblast marker, α-smooth muscle actin, within the stroma. Our results suggest that this corneal epithelial–stromal model may be useful in the study of the biochemical phenomena that occur during corneal wound healing.
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Gelam honey promotes ex vivo corneal fibroblasts wound healing. Cytotechnology 2019; 71:1121-1135. [PMID: 31606844 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-019-00349-8] [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: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of Gelam honey (GH) on ex vivo corneal fibroblast ulcer model via wound healing assay, gene expression and immunocytochemistry. Corneal fibroblasts from New Zealand white rabbits were culture expanded. The corneal fibroblast wound healing capacity was observed by creating a circular wound onto confluent monolayer cells cultured in basal medium (BM), BM with GH, serum-enriched basal medium (BMS) and BMS with GH respectively. Wound healing assay and phenotypic characterization of the corneal fibroblast were performed at different stages of wound closure. Expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), lumican, collagen I and matrix metalloproteinase 12 (MMP 12) were measured at day 1, day 3 and complete wound closure day. Corneal fibroblast cultured in BMS with GH demonstrated the fastest wound closure, at day 5 post wounding. The gene expressions of ALDH and vimentin were higher than control groups while α-SMA expression was lower, in GH enriched media. The expressions of lumican, collagen I and MMP 12 were also higher in cells cultured in GH enriched media compared to the control groups. GH was shown to promote in vitro corneal fibroblast wound healing and may be a potential natural adjunct in the treatment of corneal wound.
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Mesenchymal cells and fluid flow stimulation synergistically regulate the kinetics of corneal epithelial cells at the air-liquid interface. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 257:1915-1924. [PMID: 31321523 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04422-y] [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: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In vivo microenvironments are critical to tissue homeostasis and wound healing, and the cornea is regulated by a specific microenvironment complex that consists of cell-cell interactions, air-liquid interfaces, and fluid flow stimulation. In this study, we aimed to clarify the effects of and the correlations among these three component factors on the cell kinetics of corneal epithelial cells. METHODS Human corneal epithelial-transformed (HCE-T) cells were cocultured with either primary rat corneal fibroblasts or NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. We employed a double-dish culture method to create an air-liquid interface and a gyratory shaker to create fluid flow stimulation. Morphometric and protein expression analyses were performed for the HCE-T cells. RESULTS Both the primary rat fibroblasts and the NIH 3T3 cells promoted HCE-T cell proliferation, and the presence of fluid flow synergistically enhanced this effect and inhibited the apoptosis of HCE-T cells. Moreover, fluid flow enhanced the emergence of myofibroblasts when cocultured with primary rat fibroblasts or NIH 3T3 cells. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38 signaling were regulated either synergistically or independently by both fluid flow and cellular interaction between the HCE-T and NIH 3T3 cells. CONCLUSION The cell-cell interaction and fluid flow stimulation in the air-liquid interface synergistically or independently regulated the behavior of HCE-T cells. Fluid flow accelerated the phenotypic change from corneal fibroblasts and NIH 3T3 cells to myofibroblasts. Elucidation of the multicomponent interplay in this microenvironment will be critical to the homeostasis and regeneration of the cornea and other ocular tissues.
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Zhao X, Song W, Chen Y, Liu S, Ren L. Collagen-based materials combined with microRNA for repairing cornea wounds and inhibiting scar formation. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:51-62. [DOI: 10.1039/c8bm01054d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AuNP/miR-133b can be released from cornea regeneration materials and entered into stromal cells to inhibit cornea scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510006
- P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
| | - Wenjing Song
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510006
- P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
| | - Yawei Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- Guangzhou 510006
- P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education
- South China University of Technology
| | - Sa Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510006
- P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
| | - Li Ren
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- South China University of Technology
- Guangzhou 510006
- P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
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Duan CY, Xie HT, Zhao XY, Zhang MC. Limbal niche cells: a novel feeder cell for autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial transplantation. Regen Med 2018; 14:49-62. [PMID: 30572808 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2018-0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To establish a culture system using conspecific limbal niche cells (LNCs) as feeders for autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial transplantation (COMET). MATERIALS & METHODS Rabbit oral epithelial sheets, harvested from culture systems containing LNCs or 3T3 cells, were transplanted onto limbal stem cell-deficient rabbit eyes (COMET-3T3 or COMET-LNCs). RESULTS After COMET, corneas were relatively restored, with the exception of mild neovascularization in one cornea of the COMET-3T3 group. CD34 was detected in COMET-3T3 group corneas. Corneas of the COMET-LNCs group expressed high levels of PEDF and sFlt-1, but low levels of bFGF, compared with expression in COMET-3T3 corneas. CONCLUSION The culture system containing conspecific LNC feeders could substitute for the 3T3 cell system and decrease the risk of neovascularization after COMET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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Muppala S, Raghunathan VK, Jalilian I, Thomasy S, Murphy CJ. YAP and TAZ are distinct effectors of corneal myofibroblast transformation. Exp Eye Res 2018; 180:102-109. [PMID: 30578787 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) is elevated in wounds after injury and promotes the transdifferentiation of quiescent cells in the stroma (keratocytes, to activated fibroblasts and subsequently myofibroblasts-KFM transformation). Coactivators of transcription, YAP (Yes-associated protein) and TAZ (Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif), are mechanotransducers that intersect with the TGFβ pathway via interactions with Smad proteins. Here, we examined the distinct role of YAP and TAZ on TGFβ1 induced myofibroblast transformation of primary human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs). METHODS A knockdown approach was used to silence YAP and TAZ individually in HCFs. Forty-eight hours post siRNA transfection, cells were cultured in the presence or absence of 2 ng/ml TGFβ1 for 24h. The cells were subjected to nuclear and cytoplasmic fractionation. The expression of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), Smad 2, 3 and 4, CTGF and phospho-Smad2, 3, and 4 were assessed by qPCR and Western blotting. RESULTS TGFβ1 stimulation resulted in the decreased phosphorylation of YAP in the cytosol, and increased levels of phosphorylated TAZ and Smad2/3/4 in the nucleus. Knockdown of TAZ resulted in elevated YAP expression but not vice versa. Additionally, knockdown of TAZ but not YAP resulted in upregulation of αSMA expression in the presence and absence of TGFβ1. In the presence of TGFβ1 YAP knockdown increased Smad2/3/4 expression and Smad4 phosphorylation, while TAZ knockdown had no effect on Smad2/3/4 expression and phosphorylation. YAP knockdown inhibited CTGF expression while TAZ knockdown resulted in its increased expression. Finally, simultaneous knockdown of YAP and TAZ resulted in cell death. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that YAP and TAZ function as distinct modulators of TGFβ1 induced myofibroblast transformation and have different roles in signalling. Specifically, TAZ limits YAP's ability to mediate KFM transformation via Smad proteins. The data also suggest that while having distinct effects, YAP and TAZ have redundant or combinatorial functions critical to cell survival. These results suggest that a loss of TAZ may help drive corneal haze and fibrosis and that the balance between YAP/TAZ is essential in controlling myofibroblast differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santoshi Muppala
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Vijay Krishna Raghunathan
- Department of Basic Sciences, The Ocular Surface Institute, College of Optometry, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, TX, USA
| | - Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sara Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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Berkowski WM, Gibson DJ, Seo S, Proietto LR, Whitley RD, Schultz GS, Plummer CE. Assessment of Topical Therapies for Improving the Optical Clarity Following Stromal Wounding in a Novel Ex Vivo Canine Cornea Model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 59:5509-5521. [DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William M. Berkowski
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Daniel J. Gibson
- Institute for Wound Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - SooJung Seo
- Institute for Wound Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Laura R. Proietto
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - R. David Whitley
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Gregory S. Schultz
- Institute for Wound Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Caryn E. Plummer
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
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Miyagi H, Jalilian I, Murphy CJ, Thomasy SM. Modulation of human corneal stromal cell differentiation by hepatocyte growth factor and substratum compliance. Exp Eye Res 2018; 176:235-242. [PMID: 30193807 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Corneal wound healing is a complex process that consists of cellular integration of multiple soluble biochemical cues and cellular responses to biophysical attributes associated with the matrix of the wound space. Upon corneal stromal wounding, the transformation of corneal fibroblasts to myofibroblasts is promoted by transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). This process is critical for wound healing; however, excessive persistence of myofibroblasts in the wound space has been associated with corneal fibrosis resulting in severe vision loss. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which can modulate TGFβ signaling, on corneal myofibroblast transformation by analyzing the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) as a marker of myofibroblast phenotype particularly as it relates to biomechanical cues. Human corneal fibroblasts were cultured on tissue culture plastic (>1 GPa) or hydrogel substrates mimicking human normal or wounded corneal stiffness (25 and 75 kPa) in media containing TGFβ1 ± HGF. The expression of αSMA was analyzed by quantitative PCR, Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Cellular stiffness, which is correlated with cellular phenotype, was measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM). In primary human corneal fibroblasts, the mRNA expression of αSMA showed a clear dose response to TGFβ1. The expression was significantly suppressed when cells were incubated with 20 ng/ml HGF in the presence of 2 ng/ml of TGFβ1. The protein expression of αSMA induced by 5 ng/ml TGFβ1 was also decreased by 20 ng/ml of HGF. Cells cultured on hydrogels mimicking human normal (25 kPa) and fibrotic (75 kPa) cornea also showed an inhibitory effect of HGF on αSMA expression in the presence or absence of TGFβ1. Cellular stiffness was decreased by HGF in the presence of TGFβ1 as measured by AFM. In this study, we have demonstrated that HGF can suppress the myofibroblast phenotype promoted by TGFβ1 in human corneal stromal cells. These data suggest that HGF holds the potential as a therapeutic agent to improve wound healing outcomes by minimizing corneal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Miyagi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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Gupta S, Fink MK, Ghosh A, Tripathi R, Sinha PR, Sharma A, Hesemann NP, Chaurasia SS, Giuliano EA, Mohan RR. Novel Combination BMP7 and HGF Gene Therapy Instigates Selective Myofibroblast Apoptosis and Reduces Corneal Haze In Vivo. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:1045-1057. [PMID: 29490341 PMCID: PMC5822743 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We tested the potential of bone morphogenic protein 7 (BMP7) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) combination gene therapy to treat preformed corneal fibrosis using established rabbit in vivo and human in vitro models. Methods Eighteen New Zealand White rabbits were used. Corneal fibrosis was produced by alkali injury. Twenty-four hours after scar formation, cornea received topically either balanced salt solution (BSS; n = 6), polyethylenimine-conjugated gold nanoparticle (PEI2-GNP)-naked plasmid (n = 6) or PEI2-GNP plasmids expressing BMP7 and HGF genes (n = 6). Donor human corneas were used to obtain primary human corneal fibroblasts and myofibroblasts for mechanistic studies. Gene therapy effects on corneal fibrosis and ocular safety were evaluated by slit-lamp microscope, stereo microscopes, quantitative real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, TUNEL, modified MacDonald-Shadduck scoring system, and Draize tests. Results PEI2-GNP–mediated BMP7+HGF gene therapy significantly decreased corneal fibrosis in live rabbits in vivo (Fantes scale was 0.6 in BMP7+HGF-treated eyes compared to 3.3 in −therapy group; P < 0.001). Corneas that received BMP7+HGF demonstrated significantly reduced mRNA levels of profibrotic genes: α-SMA (3.2-fold; P < 0.01), fibronectin (2.3-fold, P < 0.01), collagen I (2.1-fold, P < 0.01), collagen III (1.6-fold, P < 0.01), and collagen IV (1.9-fold, P < 0.01) compared to the −therapy corneas. Furthermore, BMP7+HGF-treated corneas showed significantly fewer myofibroblasts compared to the −therapy controls (83%; P < 0.001). The PEI2-GNP introduced >104 gene copies per microgram DNA of BMP7 and HGF genes. The recombinant HGF rendered apoptosis in corneal myofibroblasts but not in fibroblasts. Localized topical BMP7+HGF therapy showed no ocular toxicity. Conclusions Localized topical BMP7+HGF gene therapy treats corneal fibrosis and restores transparency in vivo mitigating excessive healing and rendering selective apoptosis in myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneel Gupta
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Michael K Fink
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, India
| | - Ratnakar Tripathi
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Prashant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Ajay Sharma
- Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Nathan P Hesemann
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,Mason Eye Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Shyam S Chaurasia
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Giuliano
- One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, United States.,One-Health One-Medicine Ophthalmology and Vision Research Center, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States.,Mason Eye Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, United States
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Guo X, Sriram S, Tran JA, Hutcheon AEK, Zieske JD. Inhibition of Human Corneal Myofibroblast Formation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:3511-3520. [PMID: 30025094 PMCID: PMC6044211 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) isoform 1 (T1) is involved in corneal fibrotic wound healing by stimulating myofibroblast transformation and altering fibrotic gene expression. In this study, two specific inhibitors were used to dissect the relationship between myofibroblast generation and the TGF-β/Smad- or TGF-β/p38-signaling pathway in human corneal fibroblasts (HCF). Methods In HCF, Trx-SARA (Smad-pathway inhibitor) was used to block the TGF-β/Smad-signaling pathway, and the p38 inhibitor (p38inh, SB202190) was used to inhibit p38MAPK, thus blocking the TGF-β/p38-signaling pathway. HCF ± Trx-SARA or Trx-GA (SARA control) were serum starved overnight in Eagle's minimum essential medium (EMEM) ± p38inh, grown in EMEM ± T1 ± p38inh for 24 hours, and then processed for indirect-immunofluorescence, Western blot, or quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to examine α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and other fibrotic genes, such as fibronectin, thrombospondin1, and type III collagen. In addition, the morphology and the effect of p38inh on myofibroblast phenotype after myofibroblast formation were examined. Results We observed that Trx-SARA had little effect on αSMA expression, indicating that blocking the Smad pathway did not significantly inhibit myofibroblast formation. However, p38inh did significantly inhibit αSMA and other fibrotic genes, thus efficiently preventing the transition of HCFs to myofibroblasts. In addition, morphology changed and αSMA decreased in myofibroblasts exposed to p38inh medium, as compared with controls. Conclusions HCF transition to myofibroblasts was mainly through the p38 pathway. Therefore, blocking the p38 pathway may be a potential therapeutic tool for human corneal fibrosis prevention/treatment, because it controls myofibroblast formation in human corneal cells, while leaving other functions of T1 unaffected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Guo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Sriniwas Sriram
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Tran
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Audrey E. K. Hutcheon
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - James D. Zieske
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Thomasy SM, Raghunathan VK, Miyagi H, Evashenk AT, Sermeno JC, Tripp GK, Morgan JT, Murphy CJ. Latrunculin B and substratum stiffness regulate corneal fibroblast to myofibroblast transformation. Exp Eye Res 2018; 170:101-107. [PMID: 29421383 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The transformation of keratocytes and fibroblasts to myofibroblasts is important to corneal wound healing as well as formation of stromal haze. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of latrunculin B, an actin cytoskeleton disruptor in conjunction with a fundamental biophysical cue, substrate stiffness, on myofibroblast transformation in vitro and in vivo. Rabbit corneal fibroblasts were cultured on substrates of differing compliance (1.5, 22, and 71 kPa) and tissue culture plastic (TCP; > 1 GPa) in media containing 0 or 10 ng/ml TGFβ1 for 72 h. Cells were treated with 0.4 μM Lat-B or DMSO for 30 min every 24 h for 72 h. RNA was collected from cells and expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), keratocan, and ALDH1A1 determined using qPCR; immunocytochemistry was used to assess α-SMA protein expression. A rabbit phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) model was used to assess the impact of 0.1% Lat-B (n = 3) or 25% DMSO (vehicle control, n = 3) on corneal wound healing by assessment of epithelial wound size with fluorescein stain and semi-quantitative stromal haze scoring by an observer masked to treatment group as well as Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) at set time points. Statistical analysis was completed using one-way or two-way analysis of variance. Treatment with Lat-B versus DMSO resulted in significantly less αSMA mRNA (P ≤ 0.007) for RCF cells grown on 22 and 71 kPa substrates as well as TCP without or with TGFβ1, and significantly decreased α-SMA protein expression in RCFs cultured on the intermediate (22 kPa) stiffness in the absence (P = 0.028) or presence (P = 0.018) of TGFβ1. Treatment with Lat-B versus DMSO but did not significantly alter expression of keratocan or ALDH1A1 mRNA in RCFs (P > 0.05) in the absence or presence of TGFβ1, but RCFs grown on stiff hydrogels (71 kPa) had significantly more keratocan mRNA expression versus the 22 kPa hydrogel or TCP (P < 0.001) without TGFβ1. Administration of topical Lat-B BID was well tolerated by rabbits post-PTK but did not significantly alter epithelial wound closure, stromal haze score, stromal haze thickness as measured by FD-OCT in comparison to DMSO-treated rabbits. When corneal stromal cells are cultured on substrates possessing biologically relevant substratum stiffnesses, Lat-B modulates mRNA and protein expression of α-SMA and thus modulates myofibroblast transformation. At a dose and dose-frequency that reduced IOP in human glaucoma patients, Lat-B treatment did not substantially impact corneal epithelial or stromal wound healing in a rabbit PTK model. While a significant impact on wound healing was observed at the concentration and dose frequency reported here was not found, encouraging in vitro data support further investigations of topically applied Lat-B to determine if this compound can reduce stromal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Vijay Krishna Raghunathan
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Basic Sciences, The Ocular Surface Institute, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hidetaka Miyagi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Minami-ku, Kasumi 1-2-3, Hiroshima, 7348551, Japan
| | - Alexander T Evashenk
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jasmyne C Sermeno
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Geneva K Tripp
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Joshua T Morgan
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Miyagi H, Thomasy SM, Russell P, Murphy CJ. The role of hepatocyte growth factor in corneal wound healing. Exp Eye Res 2018; 166:49-55. [PMID: 29024692 PMCID: PMC5831200 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a glycoprotein produced by mesenchymal cells and operates as a key molecule for tissue generation and renewal. During corneal injury, HGF is primarily secreted by stromal fibroblasts and promotes epithelial wound healing in a paracrine manner. While this mesenchymal-epithelial interaction is well characterized in various organs and the cornea, the role of HGF in corneal stromal and endothelial wound healing is understudied. In addition, HGF has been shown to play an anti-fibrotic role by inhibiting myofibroblast generation and subsequent production of a disorganized extracellular matrix and tissue fibrosis. Therefore, HGF represents a potential therapeutic tool in numerous organs in which myofibroblasts are responsible for tissue scarring. Corneal fibrosis can be a devastating sequela of injury and can result in corneal opacification and retrocorneal membrane formation leading to severe vision loss. In this article, we concisely review the available literature regarding the role of HGF in corneal wound healing. We highlight the influence of HGF on cellular behaviors in each corneal layer. Additionally, we suggest the possibility that HGF may represent a therapeutic tool for interrupting dysregulated corneal repair processes to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Miyagi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Minami-ku, Kasumi 1-2-3, Hiroshima, 7348551, Japan.
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Paul Russell
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
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Zeppieri M, Salvetat ML, Beltrami A, Cesselli D, Russo R, Alcalde I, Merayo-Lloves J, Brusini P, Parodi PC. Adipose Derived Stem Cells for Corneal Wound Healing after Laser Induced Corneal Lesions in Mice. J Clin Med 2017; 6:jcm6120115. [PMID: 29206194 PMCID: PMC5742804 DOI: 10.3390/jcm6120115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of topical adipose derived stem cell (ADSC) treatment in laser induced corneal wounds in mice by comparing epithelial repair, inflammation, and histological analysis between treatment arms. Corneal lesions were performed on both eyes of 40 mice by laser induced photorefractive keratectomy. All eyes were treated with topical azythromycin bid for three days. Mice were divided in three treatment groups (n = 20), which included: control, stem cells and basic serum; which received topical treatment three times daily for five consecutive days. Biomicroscope assessments and digital imaging were performed by two masked graders at 30, 54, 78, 100, and 172 h to analyze extent of fluorescein positive epithelial defect, corneal inflammation, etc. Immunohistochemical techniques were used in fixed eyes to assess corneal repair markers Ki67, α Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) and E-Cadherin. The fluorescein positive corneal lesion areas were significantly smaller in the stem cells group on days 1 (p < 0.05), 2 (p < 0.02) and 3. The stem cell treated group had slightly better and faster re-epithelization than the serum treated group in the initial phases. Comparative histological data showed signs of earlier and better corneal repair in epithelium and stromal layers in stem cell treated eyes, which showed more epithelial layers and enhanced wound healing performance of Ki67, E-Cadherin, and α-SMA. Our study shows the potential clinical and histological advantages in the topical ADSC treatment for corneal lesions in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
| | - Maria Letizia Salvetat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
| | - Antonio Beltrami
- Department of Pathology, University of Udine, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
| | - Daniela Cesselli
- Department of Pathology, University of Udine, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
| | - Rossella Russo
- Department of Pharmacobiology, University of Calabria, Cosenza 87036, Italy.
| | - Ignacio Alcalde
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, Oviedo 33006, Spain.
| | - Jesús Merayo-Lloves
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, Oviedo 33006, Spain.
| | - Paolo Brusini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
| | - Pier Camillo Parodi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Udine, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine 33100, Italy.
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Rajendran V, Netuková M, Griffith M, Forrester JV, Kuffová L. Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for retro-corneal membrane - A clinical challenge in full-thickness transplantation of biosynthetic corneal equivalents. Acta Biomater 2017; 64:346-356. [PMID: 29030302 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Artificial corneas (keratoprostheses) and biosynthetic collagen-based corneal equivalents are surgical implants designed to ease the global burden of corneal blindness. However, keratoprostheses in many cases fail due to development of fibrous retro-corneal membranes (RCM). Fibrous membranes which develop in the anterior chamber after prosthesis implantation do so on a matrix of fibrin. This study investigated fibrin deposition and RCM formation after full-thickness collagen-based hydrogel implants and compared them with syngeneic and allogeneic corneal grafts in mice. Fibrin cleared from the anterior chamber within 14 days in both allo- and syn-grafts but, persisted in hydrogel implants and developed into dense retro-corneal membrane (RCM) which were heavily infiltrated by activated myofibroblasts. In contrast, the number of CD11b+ macrophages infiltrating the initial deposition of fibrin in the anterior chamber (AC) after hydrogel implantation was markedly reduced compared to syn- and allo-grafts. Inoculation of mesenchymal stem cells prior to collagen gel implant promoted clearance of gel-associated fibrin from the anterior chamber. We propose that a failure of macrophage-mediated clearance of fibrin may be the cause of RCM formation after collagen-based hydrogel implants and that mesenchymal stem cell therapy promotes clearance of fibrin and prevents RCM formation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE The manuscript addresses the potential value of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for retro-corneal membrane (RCM) formation in full-thickness transplantation of biosynthetic corneal equivalents. This work reports the pathophysiological changes in the anterior chamber of the mouse eye following full-thickness recombinant human cross-linked collagen-based hydrogel implants in which persistent fibrin promotes the development of dense RCM. Furthermore, pre-treatment with mesenchymal stem cells reduces RCM formation and enhances corneal transparency.
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Abstract
This article describes the natural responses of the immune system and the cornea to injury and infection. The process of reepithelialization and reformation of stromal collagen is discussed, as are the clinical signs and manifestations of the effects of the healing response when it is routine and when it is pathologic. Excessive inflammatory or immune responses by host tissues can cause further damage that may be present from the antecedent injury or the effect of a pathogen. The clinical signs and manifestations of wound healing as well as potential therapeutic interventions are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caryn E Plummer
- Comparative Ophthalmology, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 100101, 2015 Southwest 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Comparative Ophthalmology, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 100101, 2015 Southwest 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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Chawla S, Ghosh S. Establishment of in vitro model of corneal scar pathophysiology. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:3817-3830. [PMID: 28657193 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Corneal scarring is the major source of permanent blindness worldwide. The complex pathophysiology of corneal scarring is not comprehensibly understood as it involves the interaction of a constellation of pro-fibrotic cytokines influencing several signaling pathways involved in corneal scar development. In the present study, an attempt has been made to generate a relatively simple in vitro corneal scar model using primary corneal keratocytes by exogenously providing an optimized dose of combination of cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-6, and IL-8) involved in scar formation in situ. Data obtained from gene and protein expression analysis depicted enhanced ECM production with discrete expression of myofibroblast specific markers. The protein-protein interactions associated these proteins to various pathways involved in wound healing, cellular migration, and cytoskeletal remodeling justifying high relevance to in vivo scar formation. Hence the developed model can be used to acquire understanding about corneal scar pathophysiology and thus might be useful for designing the treatment modalities and efficacies for controlling scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Chawla
- Department of Textile Technology, IIT Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Sourabh Ghosh
- Department of Textile Technology, IIT Delhi, New Delhi, India
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Raghunathan VK, Thomasy SM, Strøm P, Yañez-Soto B, Garland SP, Sermeno J, Reilly CM, Murphy CJ. Tissue and cellular biomechanics during corneal wound injury and repair. Acta Biomater 2017; 58:291-301. [PMID: 28559158 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.05.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Corneal wound healing is an enormously complex process that requires the simultaneous cellular integration of multiple soluble biochemical cues, as well as cellular responses to the intrinsic chemistry and biophysical attributes associated with the matrix of the wound space. Here, we document how the biomechanics of the corneal stroma are altered through the course of wound repair following keratoablative procedures in rabbits. Further we documented the influence that substrate stiffness has on stromal cell mechanics. Following corneal epithelial debridement, New Zealand white rabbits underwent phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) on the right eye (OD). Wound healing was monitored using advanced imaging modalities. Rabbits were euthanized and corneas were harvested at various time points following PTK. Tissues were characterized for biomechanics with atomic force microscopy and with histology to assess inflammation and fibrosis. Factor analysis was performed to determine any discernable patterns in wound healing parameters. The matrix associated with the wound space was stiffest at 7days post PTK. The greatest number of inflammatory cells were observed 3days after wounding. The highest number of myofibroblasts and the greatest degree of fibrosis occurred 21days after wounding. While all clinical parameters returned to normal values 400days after wounding, the elastic modulus remained greater than pre-surgical values. Factor analysis demonstrated dynamic remodeling of stroma occurs between days 10 and 42 during corneal stromal wound repair. Elastic modulus of the anterior corneal stroma is dramatically altered following PTK and its changes coincide initially with the development of edema and inflammation, and later with formation of stromal haze and population of the wound space with myofibroblasts. Factor analysis demonstrates strongest correlation between elastic modulus, myofibroblasts, fibrosis and stromal haze thickness, and between edema and central corneal thickness. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Tissue biomechanics during the course of corneal wound healing is documented for the first time through atomic force microscopy, and is correlated with advanced clinical imaging and immunohistochemistry. Parameters obtained from the study are applied in a multivariate statistical model to cluster the data for better classification and monitor the wound repair process. Elastic modulus of the anterior corneal stroma is dramatically altered following wounding and correlates initially with the development of edema and inflammation, and later with formation of stromal haze and population of the wound space with myofibroblasts. Importantly, the occurrence of myofibroblasts is preceded by changes in tissue mechanics, which is important to consider in light of crosslinking procedures applied to treat corneal diseases.
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Li Y, Chen HJ, Zhang H, Wu JG, Hu YT, Ma ZZ. Effects of different sutures on fibrosis and wound healing in a rabbit model of corneal wounds. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:2827-2834. [PMID: 27882081 PMCID: PMC5103715 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate wound healing and scar formation in rabbit corneal lamellar wounds repaired with simple interrupted sutures (SIS) or horizontal mattress sutures (HMS). Two parallel ‘I’-shaped lamellar cornea wounds were created in one eye of 40 white New Zealand rabbits, while 5 uninjured rabbits were sacrificed to serve as normal controls. One side of the wounds, in the test rabbits, was closed with SIS, while the other side was treated with HMS. Ten days later, the stitches were removed under anesthesia. The animals were sacrificed on days 14 and 21, and months 3 and 6 after the suturing surgery, and corneal samples were subjected to histological and immunofluorescent studies: α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin were used to detect myofibroblasts and fibroblasts, respectively, and collagen type I and III was used to detect extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Relevant mRNA levels were assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to elucidate the differences in wound healing and formation of fibrosis. Macroscopic and hematoxylin and eosin staining observations showed that the two sides of the wounds developed the most prominent fibrotic tissue on day 21. The immunofluorescence and qPCR results showed that HMS wounds produced increased α-SMA, vimentin and collagen type III compared to the SIS wounds on day 14 or 21. The collagen type I expression showed no distinctive difference in SIS and HMS wounds. In conclusion, corneal lamellar wounds treated with SIS developed less fibrotic-related proteins and related mRNA in the early stages of wound healing than wounds treated with HMS. Although differences were not distinct after 3 months, the results of the present study suggest a benefit in choosing SIS over HMS, as at least the initial fibrotic process seems more benign with SIS. Corneal wounds should be carefully sutured, ensuring the tissue is well aligned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Ophthalmology (Eye Center), Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Hui J Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology (Eye Center), Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Statistics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Jian G Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology (Eye Center), Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Yun T Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology (Eye Center), Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Z Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology (Eye Center), Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
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Chen L, Mongan M, Meng Q, Wang Q, Kao W, Xia Y. Corneal Wound Healing Requires IKB kinase β Signaling in Keratocytes. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151869. [PMID: 26987064 PMCID: PMC4795706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
IkB kinase β (IKKβ) is a key signaling kinase for inflammatory responses, but it also plays diverse cell type-specific roles that are not yet fully understood. Here we investigated the role of IKKβ in the cornea using IkkβΔCS mice in which the Ikkβ gene was specifically deleted in the corneal stromal keratocytes. The IkkβΔCS corneas had normal morphology, transparency and thickness; however, they did not heal well from mild alkali burn injury. In contrast to the IkkβF/F corneas that restored transparency in 2 weeks after injury, over 50% of the IkkβΔCS corneas failed to fully recover. They instead developed recurrent haze with increased stromal thickness, severe inflammation and apoptosis. This pathogenesis correlated with sustained myofibroblast transformation with increased α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, higher levels of senescence β-Gal activity and scar tissue formation at the late stage of wound healing. In addition, the IkkβΔCS corneas displayed elevated expression of hemo-oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a marker of oxidative stress, and activation of stress signaling pathways with increased JNK, c-Jun and SMAD2/3 phosphorylation. These data suggest that IKKβ in keratocytes is required to repress oxidative stress and attenuate fibrogenesis and senescence in corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Chen
- Department of Environmental Health and Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
| | - Maureen Mongan
- Department of Environmental Health and Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
| | - Qinghang Meng
- Department of Environmental Health and Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health and Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
| | - Winston Kao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Environmental Health and Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45267–0056, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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