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Lopes FM, Grenier C, Jarvis BW, Al Mahdy S, Lène-McKay A, Gurney AM, Newman WG, Waddington SN, Woolf AS, Roberts NA. Human HPSE2 gene transfer ameliorates bladder pathophysiology in a mutant mouse model of urofacial syndrome. eLife 2024; 13:RP91828. [PMID: 38990208 PMCID: PMC11239176 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91828] [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] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Rare early-onset lower urinary tract disorders include defects of functional maturation of the bladder. Current treatments do not target the primary pathobiology of these diseases. Some have a monogenic basis, such as urofacial, or Ochoa, syndrome (UFS). Here, the bladder does not empty fully because of incomplete relaxation of its outflow tract, and subsequent urosepsis can cause kidney failure. UFS is associated with biallelic variants of HPSE2, encoding heparanase-2. This protein is detected in pelvic ganglia, autonomic relay stations that innervate the bladder and control voiding. Bladder outflow tracts of Hpse2 mutant mice display impaired neurogenic relaxation. We hypothesized that HPSE2 gene transfer soon after birth would ameliorate this defect and explored an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-based approach. AAV9/HPSE2, carrying human HPSE2 driven by CAG, was administered intravenously into neonatal mice. In the third postnatal week, transgene transduction and expression were sought, and ex vivo myography was undertaken to measure bladder function. In mice administered AAV9/HPSE2, the viral genome was detected in pelvic ganglia. Human HPSE2 was expressed and heparanase-2 became detectable in pelvic ganglia of treated mutant mice. On autopsy, wild-type mice had empty bladders, whereas bladders were uniformly distended in mutant mice, a defect ameliorated by AAV9/HPSE2 treatment. Therapeutically, AAV9/HPSE2 significantly ameliorated impaired neurogenic relaxation of Hpse2 mutant bladder outflow tracts. Impaired neurogenic contractility of mutant detrusor smooth muscle was also significantly improved. These results constitute first steps towards curing UFS, a clinically devastating genetic disease featuring a bladder autonomic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa M Lopes
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Celine Grenier
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin W Jarvis
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Al Mahdy
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Lène-McKay
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Gurney
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - William G Newman
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Evolution Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Simon N Waddington
- Maternal & Fetal Medicine, EGA Institute for Women's Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Wits/SAMRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Adrian S Woolf
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Neil A Roberts
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Li X, Ji S, Cipriani G, Hillestad ML, Eisenman ST, Barry MA, Nath KA, Linden DR, Wright A, AlAsfoor S, Grover M, Sha L, Hsi LC, Farrugia G. Adeno-associated virus-9 reverses delayed gastric emptying of solids in diabetic mice. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2023; 35:e14669. [PMID: 37702100 PMCID: PMC10841310 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroparesis is defined by delayed gastric emptying (GE) without obstruction. Studies suggest targeting heme oxygenase-1 (HO1) may ameliorate diabetic gastroparesis. Upregulation of HO1 expression via interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the gastric muscularis propria is associated with reversal of delayed GE in diabetic NOD mice. IL-10 activates the M2 cytoprotective phenotype of macrophages and induces expression of HO1 protein. Here, we assess delivery of HO1 by recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) in diabetic mice with delayed GE. METHODS C57BL6 diabetic delayed GE mice were injected with 1 × 1012 vg scAAV9-cre, scAAV9-GFP, or scAAV9-HO1 particles. Changes to GE were assessed weekly utilizing our [13 C]-octanoic acid breath test. Stomach tissue was collected to assess the effect of scAAV9 treatment on Kit, NOS1, and HO1 expression. KEY RESULTS Delayed GE returned to normal within 2 weeks of treatment in 7/12 mice receiving scAAV9-cre and in 4/5 mice that received the scAAV9-GFP, whereas mice that received scAAV9-HO1 did not respond in the same manner and had GE that took significantly longer to return to normal (6/7 mice at 4-6 weeks). Kit, NOS1, and HO1 protein expression in scAAV9-GFP-treated mice with normal GE were not significantly different compared with diabetic mice with delayed GE. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES Injection of scAAV9 into diabetic C57BL6 mice produced a biological response that resulted in acceleration of GE independently of the cargo delivered by the AAV9 vector. Further research is needed to determine whether use of AAV mediated gene transduction in the gastric muscularis propria is beneficial and warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Li
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Sihan Ji
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Gianluca Cipriani
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | | | - Seth T. Eisenman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Michael A. Barry
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - Karl A. Nath
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - David R. Linden
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - Alec Wright
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Shefaa AlAsfoor
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - Madhusudan Grover
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - Lei Sha
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Linda C. Hsi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
| | - Gianrico Farrugia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Enteric Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Mn, USA
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Johnson AK, McCurdy VJ, Gray-Edwards HL, Maguire AS, Cochran JN, Gross AL, Skinner HE, Randle AN, Shirley JL, Brunson BL, Bradbury AM, Leroy SG, Hwang M, Rockwell HE, Cox NR, Baker HJ, Seyfried TN, Sena-Esteves M, Martin DR. Life-Limiting Peripheral Organ Dysfunction in Feline Sandhoff Disease Emerges after Effective CNS Gene Therapy. Ann Neurol 2023; 94:969-986. [PMID: 37526361 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE GM2 gangliosidosis is usually fatal by 5 years of age in its 2 major subtypes, Tay-Sachs and Sandhoff disease. First reported in 1881, GM2 gangliosidosis has no effective treatment today, and children succumb to the disease after a protracted neurodegenerative course and semi-vegetative state. This study seeks to further develop adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy for human translation. METHODS Cats with Sandhoff disease were treated by intracranial injection of vectors expressing feline β-N-acetylhexosaminidase, the enzyme deficient in GM2 gangliosidosis. RESULTS Hexosaminidase activity throughout the brain and spinal cord was above normal after treatment, with highest activities at the injection sites (thalamus and deep cerebellar nuclei). Ganglioside storage was reduced throughout the brain and spinal cord, with near complete clearance in many regions. While untreated cats with Sandhoff disease lived for 4.4 ± 0.6 months, AAV-treated cats lived to 19.1 ± 8.6 months, and 3 of 9 cats lived >21 months. Correction of the central nervous system was so effective that significant increases in lifespan led to the emergence of otherwise subclinical peripheral disease, including megacolon, enlarged stomach and urinary bladder, soft tissue spinal cord compression, and patellar luxation. Throughout the gastrointestinal tract, neurons of the myenteric and submucosal plexuses developed profound pathology, demonstrating that the enteric nervous system was inadequately treated. INTERPRETATION The vector formulation in the current study effectively treats neuropathology in feline Sandhoff disease, but whole-body targeting will be an important consideration in next-generation approaches. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:969-986.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aime K Johnson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Victoria J McCurdy
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Heather L Gray-Edwards
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Anne S Maguire
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - J Nicholas Cochran
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Amanda L Gross
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Haleigh E Skinner
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Ashley N Randle
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Jamie L Shirley
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Brandon L Brunson
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Allison M Bradbury
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Stanley G Leroy
- Department of Neurology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Misako Hwang
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Hannah E Rockwell
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nancy R Cox
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Henry J Baker
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Thomas N Seyfried
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Miguel Sena-Esteves
- Department of Neurology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Douglas R Martin
- Scott-Ritchey Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Nakamura S, Morohoshi K, Inada E, Sato Y, Watanabe S, Saitoh I, Sato M. Recent Advances in In Vivo Somatic Cell Gene Modification in Newborn Pups. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15301. [PMID: 37894981 PMCID: PMC10607593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015301] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Germline manipulation at the zygote stage using the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been extensively employed for creating genetically modified animals and maintaining established lines. However, this approach requires a long and laborious task. Recently, many researchers have attempted to overcome these limitations by generating somatic mutations in the adult stage through tail vein injection or local administration of CRISPR reagents, as a new strategy called "in vivo somatic cell genome editing". This approach does not require manipulation of early embryos or strain maintenance, and it can test the results of genome editing in a short period. The newborn is an ideal stage to perform in vivo somatic cell genome editing because it is immune-privileged, easily accessible, and only a small amount of CRISPR reagents is required to achieve somatic cell genome editing throughout the entire body, owing to its small size. In this review, we summarize in vivo genome engineering strategies that have been successfully demonstrated in newborns. We also report successful in vivo genome editing through the neonatal introduction of genome editing reagents into various sites in newborns (as exemplified by intravenous injection via the facial vein), which will be helpful for creating models for genetic diseases or treating many genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Nakamura
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Japan;
| | - Kazunori Morohoshi
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, Tokorozawa 359-8513, Japan;
| | - Emi Inada
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan;
| | - Yoko Sato
- Graduate School of Public Health, Shizuoka Graduate University of Public Health, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-0881, Japan;
| | - Satoshi Watanabe
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Tsukuba 305-0901, Japan;
| | - Issei Saitoh
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Asahi University School of Dentistry, Mizuho 501-0296, Japan;
| | - Masahiro Sato
- Department of Genome Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan;
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5
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Gaillard J, Gu AR, Neil Knierbein EE. Necrotizing Enterocolitis following Onasemnogene Abeparvovec for Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A Case Series. J Pediatr 2023; 260:113493. [PMID: 37211209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Onasemnogene abeparvovec treats spinal muscular atrophy by delivering a functional SMN1 gene. Necrotizing enterocolitis typically occurs in preterm infants. We report 2 term infants diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy who presented with necrotizing enterocolitis after onasemnogene abeparvovec infusion. We discuss potential etiologies and propose monitoring for necrotizing enterocolitis after onasemnogene abeparvovec therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Gaillard
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Andrew Ran Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Erin E Neil Knierbein
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
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Berta T, Strong JA, Zhang JM, Ji RR. Targeting dorsal root ganglia and primary sensory neurons for the treatment of chronic pain: an update. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:665-678. [PMID: 37574713 PMCID: PMC10530032 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2247563] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current treatments for chronic pain are inadequate. Here, we provide an update on the new therapeutic strategies that target dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) in the peripheral nervous system for a better and safer treatment of chronic pain. AREAS COVERED Despite the complex nature of chronic pain and its underlying mechanisms, we do know that changes in the plasticity and modality of neurons in DRGs play a pivotal role. DRG neurons are heterogenous and offer potential pain targets for different therapeutic interventions. We discuss the last advancements of these interventions, which include the use of systemic and local administrations, selective nerve drug delivery, and gene therapy. In particular, we provide updates and further details on the molecular characterization of primary sensory neurons, new analgesics entering the market, and future gene therapy approaches. EXPERT OPINION DRGs and primary sensory neurons are promising targets for chronic pain treatment due to their key role in pain signaling, unique anatomical location, and the potential for different targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temugin Berta
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Judith A. Strong
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Jun-Ming Zhang
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Ru-Rong Ji
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Departments of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
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Sharkey KA, Mawe GM. The enteric nervous system. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:1487-1564. [PMID: 36521049 PMCID: PMC9970663 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00018.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all the organ systems in the body, the gastrointestinal tract is the most complicated in terms of the numbers of structures involved, each with different functions, and the numbers and types of signaling molecules utilized. The digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, electrolytes, and water occurs in a hostile luminal environment that contains a large and diverse microbiota. At the core of regulatory control of the digestive and defensive functions of the gastrointestinal tract is the enteric nervous system (ENS), a complex system of neurons and glia in the gut wall. In this review, we discuss 1) the intrinsic neural control of gut functions involved in digestion and 2) how the ENS interacts with the immune system, gut microbiota, and epithelium to maintain mucosal defense and barrier function. We highlight developments that have revolutionized our understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of enteric neural control. These include a new understanding of the molecular architecture of the ENS, the organization and function of enteric motor circuits, and the roles of enteric glia. We explore the transduction of luminal stimuli by enteroendocrine cells, the regulation of intestinal barrier function by enteric neurons and glia, local immune control by the ENS, and the role of the gut microbiota in regulating the structure and function of the ENS. Multifunctional enteric neurons work together with enteric glial cells, macrophages, interstitial cells, and enteroendocrine cells integrating an array of signals to initiate outputs that are precisely regulated in space and time to control digestion and intestinal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gary M Mawe
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont
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Yang OJ, Robilotto GL, Alom F, Alemán K, Devulapally K, Morris A, Mickle AD. Evaluating the transduction efficiency of systemically delivered AAV vectors in the rat nervous system. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1001007. [PMID: 36755734 PMCID: PMC9899837 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1001007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene delivery or manipulation with viral vectors is a frequently used tool in basic neuroscience studies. Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are the most widely used vectors due to their relative safety and long-term efficacy without causing overt immunological complications. Many AAV serotypes have been discovered and engineered that preferentially transduce different populations of neurons. However, efficient targeting of peripheral neurons remains challenging for many researchers, and evaluation of peripheral neuron transduction with AAVs in rats is limited. Here, we aimed to test the efficiency of systemic AAVs to transduce peripheral neurons in rats. We administered AAV9-tdTomato, AAV-PHP.S-tdTomato, or AAV-retro-GFP systemically to neonatal rats via intraperitoneal injection. After 5 weeks, we evaluated expression patterns in peripheral sensory, motor, and autonomic neurons. No significant difference between the serotypes in the transduction of sensory neurons was noted, and all serotypes were more efficient in transducing NF200 + neurons compared to smaller CGRP + neurons. AAV-retro was more efficient at transducing motor neurons compared to other serotypes. Moreover, PHP.S was more efficient at transducing sympathetic neurons, and AAV-retro was more efficient at transducing parasympathetic neurons. These results indicate that specific AAV serotypes target peripheral neuron populations more efficiently than others in the neonatal rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia J. Yang
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Gabriella L. Robilotto
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Firoj Alom
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Karla Alemán
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Karthik Devulapally
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Abigail Morris
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Aaron D. Mickle
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,*Correspondence: Aaron D. Mickle,
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9
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Ma LT, Lian JX, Bai Y, Shang MJ, Zhang ZZ, Wu FF, Chen J, Meng XB, Zheng J, Li T, Li YQ, Wang JJ. Adeno-associated virus vector intraperitoneal injection induces colonic mucosa and submucosa transduction and alters the diversity and composition of the faecal microbiota in rats. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1028380. [PMID: 36619753 PMCID: PMC9813966 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1028380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Viral vector technology, especially recombinant adeno-associated virus vector (rAAV) technology, has shown great promise in preclinical research for clinical applications. Several studies have confirmed that rAAV can successfully transduce the enteric nervous system (ENS), and rAAV gene therapy has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of the early childhood blindness disease Leber congenital amaurosis and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). However, until now, it has not been possible to determine the effect of AAV9 on intestinal microbiota. Methods We examined the efficiency of AAV9-mediated ascending colon, transverse colon and descending colon transduction through intraperitoneal (IP) injection, performed 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and analysed specific faecal microbial signatures following AAV9 IP injection via bioinformatics methods in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Results Our results showed (1) efficient transduction of the mucosa and submucosa of the ascending, transverse, and descending colon following AAV9 IP injection; (2) a decreased alpha diversity and an altered overall microbial composition following AAV9 IP injection; (3) significant enrichments in a total of 5 phyla, 10 classes, 13 orders, 15 families, 29 genera, and 230 OTUs following AAV9 IP injection; and (4) AAV9 can significantly upregulate the relative abundance of anaerobic microbiota which is one of the seven high-level phenotypes that BugBase could predict. Conclusion In summary, these data show that IP injection of AAV9 can successfully induce the transduction of the colonic mucosa and submucosa and alter the diversity and composition of the faecal microbiota in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Tian Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing-Xuan Lian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Meng-Juan Shang
- Department of Radiation Biology, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, ShaanXi, China
| | - Zhe-Zhe Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fei-Fei Wu
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Preclinical Medicine Education, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xian-Bo Meng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China,*Correspondence: Jing-Jie Wang, ; Yun-Qing Li, ; Tian Li,
| | - Yun-Qing Li
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China,Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research and Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Haikou, China,Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, China,*Correspondence: Jing-Jie Wang, ; Yun-Qing Li, ; Tian Li,
| | - Jing-Jie Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China,*Correspondence: Jing-Jie Wang, ; Yun-Qing Li, ; Tian Li,
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Wang L, Yuan PQ, Challis C, Ravindra Kumar S, Taché Y. Transduction of Systemically Administered Adeno-Associated Virus in the Colonic Enteric Nervous System and c-Kit Cells of Adult Mice. Front Neuroanat 2022; 16:884280. [PMID: 35734536 PMCID: PMC9207206 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.884280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic delivery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors transduces the enteric nervous system. However, less is known on the mapping and morphological and neurochemical characterization in the adult mouse colon. We used AAV9-CAG-GFP (AAV9) and AAV-PHP.S-hSyn1-tdTomato farnesylated (PHP.S-tdTf) to investigate the segmental distribution, morphologies and neurochemical coding of the transduction. The vectors were retro-orbitally injected in male and female adult mice, and 3 weeks later, the colon was prepared for microcopy with or without immunohistochemistry for neuronal and non-neuronal markers. In contrast to the distributions in neonatal and juvenile rodents, the AAV transduction in neurons and/or nerve fibers was the highest in the proximal colon, decreased gradually in the transverse, and was sparse in the distal colon without difference between sexes. In the proximal colon, the AAV9-transduced myenteric neurons were unevenly distributed. The majority of enteric neurons did not have AAV9 expression in their processes, except those with big soma with or without variously shaped dendrites, and a long axon. Immunolabeling demonstrated that about 31% neurons were transduced by AAV9, and the transduction was in 50, 28, and 31% of cholinergic, nitrergic, and calbindin-positive myenteric neurons, respectively. The nerve fiber markers, calcitonin gene-related peptide alpha, tyrosine hydroxylase or vasoactive intestinal polypeptide co-localized with AAV9 or PHP.S-tdTf in the mucosa, and rarely in the myenteric plexus. Unexpectedly, AAV9 expression appeared also in a few c-Kit immunoreactive cells among the heavily populated interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). In the distal colon, the AAV transduction appeared in a few nerve fibers mostly the interganglionic strands. Other types of AAV9 and AAV-PHP vectors induced a similar colonic segmental difference which is not colon specific since neurons were transduced in the small intestine and gastric antrum, while little in the gastric corpus and none in the lower esophagus. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that in adult mice colon that there is a rostro-caudal decrease in the transduction of systemic delivery of AAV9 and its variants independent of sex. The characterization of AAV transduction in the proximal colon in cholinergic and nitrergic myenteric neurons along with a few ICC suggests implications in circuitries regulating motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wang
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pu-Qing Yuan
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Collin Challis
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Sripriya Ravindra Kumar
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Yvette Taché
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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11
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Lopes FM, Woolf AS, Roberts NA. Envisioning treating genetically-defined urinary tract malformations with viral vector-mediated gene therapy. J Pediatr Urol 2021; 17:610-620. [PMID: 34312114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human urinary tract malformations can cause dysfunctional voiding, urosepsis and kidney failure. Other affected individuals, with severe phenotypes on fetal ultrasound screening, undergo elective termination. Currently, there exist no specific treatments that target the primary biological disease mechanisms that generate these urinary tract malformations. Historically, the pathogenesis of human urinary tract malformations has been obscure. It is now established that some such individuals have defined monogenic causes for their disease. In health, the implicated genes are expressed in either differentiating urinary tract smooth muscle cells, urothelial cells or peripheral nerve cells supplying the bladder. The phenotypes arising from mutations of these genes include megabladder, congenital functional bladder outflow obstruction, and vesicoureteric reflux. We contend that these genetic and molecular insights can now inform the design of novel therapies involving viral vector-mediated gene transfer. Indeed, this technology is being used to treat individuals with early onset monogenic disease outside the urinary tract, such as spinal muscular atrophy. Moreover, it has been contended that human fetal gene therapy, which may be necessary to ameliorate developmental defects, could become a reality in the coming decades. We suggest that viral vector-mediated gene therapies should first be tested in existing mouse models with similar monogenic and anatomical aberrations as found in people with urinary tract malformations. Indeed, gene transfer protocols have been successfully pioneered in newborn and fetal mice to treat non-urinary tract diseases. If similar strategies were successful in animals with urinary tract malformations, this would pave the way for personalized and potentially curative treatments for people with urinary tract malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa M Lopes
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Adrian S Woolf
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
| | - Neil A Roberts
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK.
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12
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Wang L, Challis C, Li S, Fowlkes CC, Kumar SR, Yuan PQ, Taché YF. Multicolor sparse viral labeling and 3D digital tracing of enteric plexus in mouse proximal colon using a novel adeno-associated virus capsid. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021; 33:e14014. [PMID: 33094876 PMCID: PMC8568587 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14014] [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] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravenous administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV) can be used as a noninvasive approach to trace neuronal morphology and links. AAV-PHP.S is a variant of AAV9 that effectively transduces the peripheral nervous system. The objective was to label randomly and sparsely enteric plexus in the mouse colon using AAV-PHP.S with a tunable two-component multicolor vector system and digitally trace individual neurons and nerve fibers within microcircuits in three dimensions (3D). METHODS A vector system including a tetracycline inducer with a tet-responsive element driving three separate fluorophores was packaged in the AAV-PHP.S capsid. The vectors were injected retro-orbitally in mice, and the colon was harvested 3 weeks after. Confocal microscopic images of enteric plexus were digitally segmented and traced in 3D using Neurolucida 360, neuTube, or Imaris software. KEY RESULTS The transduction of multicolor AAV vectors induced random sparse spectral labeling of soma and neurites primarily in the myenteric plexus of the proximal colon, while neurons in the submucosal plexus were occasionally transduced. Digital tracing in 3D showed various types of wiring, including multiple conjunctions of one neuron with other neurons, neurites en route, and endings; clusters of neurons in close apposition between each other; axon-axon parallel conjunctions; and intraganglionic nerve endings consisting of multiple nerve endings and passing fibers. Most of digitally traced neuronal somas were of small or medium in size. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES The multicolor AAV-PHP.S-packaged vectors enabled random sparse spectral labeling and revealed complexities of enteric microcircuit in the mouse proximal colon. The techniques can facilitate digital modeling of enteric micro-circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wang
- Department of Medicine, Taman Manoukisan Digestive Diseases Division, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Collin Challis
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Songlin Li
- Department of Medicine, Taman Manoukisan Digestive Diseases Division, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Sripriya Ravindra Kumar
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Pu-Qing Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Taman Manoukisan Digestive Diseases Division, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yvette F. Taché
- Department of Medicine, Taman Manoukisan Digestive Diseases Division, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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13
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Colón-Thillet R, Jerome KR, Stone D. Optimization of AAV vectors to target persistent viral reservoirs. Virol J 2021; 18:85. [PMID: 33892762 PMCID: PMC8067653 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01555-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene delivery of antiviral therapeutics to anatomical sites where viruses accumulate and persist is a promising approach for the next generation of antiviral therapies. Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are one of the leading vectors for gene therapy applications that deliver gene-editing enzymes, antibodies, and RNA interference molecules to eliminate viral reservoirs that fuel persistent infections. As long-lived viral DNA within specific cellular reservoirs is responsible for persistent hepatitis B virus, Herpes simplex virus, and human immunodeficiency virus infections, the discovery of AAV vectors with strong tropism for hepatocytes, sensory neurons and T cells, respectively, is of particular interest. Identification of natural isolates from various tissues in humans and non-human primates has generated an extensive catalog of AAV vectors with diverse tropisms and transduction efficiencies, which has been further expanded through molecular genetic approaches. The AAV capsid protein, which forms the virions' outer shell, is the primary determinant of tissue tropism, transduction efficiency, and immunogenicity. Thus, over the past few decades, extensive efforts to optimize AAV vectors for gene therapy applications have focused on capsid engineering with approaches such as directed evolution and rational design. These approaches are being used to identify variants with improved transduction efficiencies, alternate tropisms, reduced sequestration in non-target organs, and reduced immunogenicity, and have produced AAV capsids that are currently under evaluation in pre-clinical and clinical trials. This review will summarize the most recent strategies to identify AAV vectors with enhanced tropism and transduction in cell types that harbor viral reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Colón-Thillet
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Keith R Jerome
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Daniel Stone
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, USA.
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14
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O'Carroll SJ, Cook WH, Young D. AAV Targeting of Glial Cell Types in the Central and Peripheral Nervous System and Relevance to Human Gene Therapy. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 13:618020. [PMID: 33505247 PMCID: PMC7829478 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.618020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Different glial cell types are found throughout the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), where they have important functions. These cell types are also involved in nervous system pathology, playing roles in neurodegenerative disease and following trauma in the brain and spinal cord (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes), nerve degeneration and development of pain in peripheral nerves (Schwann cells, satellite cells), retinal diseases (Müller glia) and gut dysbiosis (enteric glia). These cell type have all been proposed as potential targets for treating these conditions. One approach to target these cell types is the use of gene therapy to modify gene expression. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have been shown to be safe and effective in targeting cells in the nervous system and have been used in a number of clinical trials. To date, a number of studies have tested the use of different AAV serotypes and cell-specific promoters to increase glial cell tropism and expression. However, true glial-cell specific targeting for a particular glial cell type remains elusive. This review provides an overview of research into developing glial specific gene therapy and discusses some of the issues that still need to be addressed to make glial cell gene therapy a clinical reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J O'Carroll
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - William H Cook
- Molecular Neurotherapeutics Group, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Deborah Young
- Molecular Neurotherapeutics Group, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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15
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Spencer NJ, Hibberd T, Feng J, Hu H. Optogenetic control of the enteric nervous system and gastrointestinal transit. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 13:281-284. [PMID: 30791770 PMCID: PMC6719318 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1581061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There are limited effective therapies available for improving gastrointestinal (GI) transit in mammals with intractable or chronic constipation. Current therapeutics to improve GI-transit usually require oral ingestion of therapeutic drugs, such as the serotonin receptor agonist prucalopride. However, most receptors are distributed all over the body and unsurprisingly drugs like prucalopride stimulate multiple organs, often leading to unwanted side effects. There is a desperate need in the community to improve GI-transit selectively without effects on other organs. Areas covered: We performed a systematic review of the literature on Pubmed and report significant technical advances in optogenetic control of the GI-tract. We discuss recent demonstrations that optogenetics can be used to potently control the activity of subsets of enteric neurons. Special focus is made of the first recent demonstration that wireless optogenetics can be used to stimulate the colon in conscious, freely-moving, untethered mice causing a significant increase in fecal pellet output. This is a significant technical breakthrough with a major therapeutic potential application to improve GI-transit. Expert opinion: The ability to selectively stimulate the ENS to modulate GI-transit in live mammals using light, avoids the need for oral consumption of any drugs and side effects; by stimulating only the GI-tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick J Spencer
- College of Medicine and Public Health & Centre for Neuroscience, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Tim Hibberd
- College of Medicine and Public Health & Centre for Neuroscience, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hongzhen Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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16
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Roberts NA, Hilton EN, Lopes FM, Singh S, Randles MJ, Gardiner NJ, Chopra K, Coletta R, Bajwa Z, Hall RJ, Yue WW, Schaefer F, Weber S, Henriksson R, Stuart HM, Hedman H, Newman WG, Woolf AS. Lrig2 and Hpse2, mutated in urofacial syndrome, pattern nerves in the urinary bladder. Kidney Int 2019; 95:1138-1152. [PMID: 30885509 PMCID: PMC6481288 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in leucine-rich-repeats and immunoglobulin-like-domains 2 (LRIG2) or in heparanase 2 (HPSE2) cause urofacial syndrome, a devastating autosomal recessive disease of functional bladder outlet obstruction. It has been speculated that urofacial syndrome has a neural basis, but it is unknown whether defects in urinary bladder innervation are present. We hypothesized that urofacial syndrome features a peripheral neuropathy of the bladder. Mice with homozygous targeted Lrig2 mutations had urinary defects resembling those found in urofacial syndrome. There was no anatomical blockage of the outflow tract, consistent with a functional bladder outlet obstruction. Transcriptome analysis revealed differential expression of 12 known transcripts in addition to Lrig2, including 8 with established roles in neurobiology. Mice with homozygous mutations in either Lrig2 or Hpse2 had increased nerve density within the body of the urinary bladder and decreased nerve density around the urinary outflow tract. In a sample of 155 children with chronic kidney disease and urinary symptoms, we discovered novel homozygous missense LRIG2 variants that were predicted to be pathogenic in 2 individuals with non-syndromic bladder outlet obstruction. These observations provide evidence that a peripheral neuropathy is central to the pathobiology of functional bladder outlet obstruction in urofacial syndrome, and emphasize the importance of LRIG2 and heparanase 2 for nerve patterning in the urinary tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Roberts
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK.
| | - Emma N Hilton
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Filipa M Lopes
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Subir Singh
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Michael J Randles
- School of Allied Health Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Natalie J Gardiner
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Karl Chopra
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Riccardo Coletta
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Zunera Bajwa
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Robert J Hall
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Wyatt W Yue
- Structural Genomics Consortium, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Franz Schaefer
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Centre for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Weber
- Pediatric Nephrology, University-Children's Hospital Marburg, Philipps-University Marburg, Germany
| | - Roger Henriksson
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Regional Cancer Center Stockholm/Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helen M Stuart
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Håkan Hedman
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - William G Newman
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Adrian S Woolf
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, UK; Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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17
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Li Z, Hao MM, Van den Haute C, Baekelandt V, Boesmans W, Vanden Berghe P. Regional complexity in enteric neuron wiring reflects diversity of motility patterns in the mouse large intestine. eLife 2019; 8:42914. [PMID: 30747710 PMCID: PMC6391068 DOI: 10.7554/elife.42914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The enteric nervous system controls a variety of gastrointestinal functions including intestinal motility. The minimal neuronal circuit necessary to direct peristalsis is well-characterized but several intestinal regions display also other motility patterns for which the underlying circuits and connectivity schemes that coordinate the transition between those patterns are poorly understood. We investigated whether in regions with a richer palette of motility patterns, the underlying nerve circuits reflect this complexity. Using Ca2+ imaging, we determined the location and response fingerprint of large populations of enteric neurons upon focal network stimulation. Complemented by neuronal tracing and volumetric reconstructions of synaptic contacts, this shows that the multifunctional proximal colon requires specific additional circuit components as compared to the distal colon, where peristalsis is the predominant motility pattern. Our study reveals that motility control is hard-wired in the enteric neural networks and that circuit complexity matches the motor pattern portfolio of specific intestinal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiling Li
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marlene M Hao
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chris Van den Haute
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Viral Vector Core, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Werend Boesmans
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Pieter Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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18
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Woolf AS, Lopes FM, Ranjzad P, Roberts NA. Congenital Disorders of the Human Urinary Tract: Recent Insights From Genetic and Molecular Studies. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:136. [PMID: 31032239 PMCID: PMC6470263 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The urinary tract comprises the renal pelvis, the ureter, the urinary bladder, and the urethra. The tract acts as a functional unit, first propelling urine from the kidney to the bladder, then storing it at low pressure inside the bladder which intermittently and completely voids urine through the urethra. Congenital diseases of these structures can lead to a range of diseases sometimes associated with fetal losses or kidney failure in childhood and later in life. In some of these disorders, parts of the urinary tract are severely malformed. In other cases, the organs appear grossly intact yet they have functional deficits that compromise health. Human studies are beginning to indicate monogenic causes for some of these diseases. Here, the implicated genes can encode smooth muscle, neural or urothelial molecules, or transcription factors that regulate their expression. Furthermore, certain animal models are informative about how such molecules control the development and functional differentiation of the urinary tract. In future, novel therapies, including those based on gene transfer and stem cell technologies, may be used to treat these diseases to complement conventional pharmacological and surgical clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian S Woolf
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Filipa M Lopes
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Parisa Ranjzad
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Neil A Roberts
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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19
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Boesmans W, Hao MM, Vanden Berghe P. Optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques for neurogastroenterology. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:21-38. [PMID: 29184183 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2017.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics and chemogenetics comprise a wide variety of applications in which genetically encoded actuators and indicators are used to modulate and monitor activity with high cellular specificity. Over the past 10 years, development of these genetically encoded tools has contributed tremendously to our understanding of integrated physiology. In concert with the continued refinement of probes, strategies to target transgene expression to specific cell types have also made much progress in the past 20 years. In addition, the successful implementation of optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques thrives thanks to ongoing advances in live imaging microscopy and optical technology. Although innovation of optogenetic and chemogenetic methods has been primarily driven by researchers studying the central nervous system, these techniques also hold great promise to boost research in neurogastroenterology. In this Review, we describe the different classes of tools that are currently available and give an overview of the strategies to target them to specific cell types in the gut wall. We discuss the possibilities and limitations of optogenetic and chemogenetic technology in the gut and provide an overview of their current use, with a focus on the enteric nervous system. Furthermore, we suggest some experiments that can advance our understanding of how the intrinsic and extrinsic neural networks of the gut control gastrointestinal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werend Boesmans
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debeijelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marlene M Hao
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Pieter Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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20
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Wang W. Optogenetic manipulation of ENS - The brain in the gut. Life Sci 2017; 192:18-25. [PMID: 29155296 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetics has emerged as an important tool in neuroscience, especially in central nervous system research. It allows for the study of the brain's highly complex network with high temporal and spatial resolution. The enteric nervous system (ENS), the brain in the gut, plays critical roles for life. Although advanced progress has been made, the neural circuits of the ENS remain only partly understood because the appropriate research tools are lacking. In this review, I highlight the potential application of optogenetics in ENS research. Firstly, I describe the development of optogenetics with focusing on its three main components. I discuss the applications in vitro and in vivo, and summarize current findings in the ENS research field obtained by optogenetics. Finally, the challenges for the application of optogenetics to the ENS research will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Minnan Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000, China.
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Systemic gene delivery transduces the enteric nervous system of guinea pigs and cynomolgus macaques. Gene Ther 2017; 24:640-648. [PMID: 28771235 PMCID: PMC5658254 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2017.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Characterization of adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) mediated gene delivery to the enteric nervous system (ENS) was recently described in mice and rats. In these proof-of-concept experiments, we show that intravenous injections of clinically relevant AAVs can transduce the ENS in guinea pigs and non-human primates. Neonatal guinea pigs were given intravenous injections of either AAV8 or AAV9 vectors that contained a green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression cassette or PBS. Piglets were euthanized three weeks post-injection and tissues were harvested for immunofluorescent analysis. GFP expression was detected in myenteric and submucosal neurons along the length of the gastrointestinal tract in AAV8 injected guinea pigs. GFP positive neurons were found in dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and dorsal root ganglia. Less transduction occurred in AAV9 treated tissues. Gastrointestinal tissues were analyzed from young cynomolgus macaques that received systemic injection of AAV9 GFP. GFP expression was detected in myenteric neurons of the stomach, small and large intestine. These data demonstrate that ENS gene delivery translates to larger species. This work develops tools for the field of neurogastroenterology to explore gut physiology and anatomy using emerging technologies such as optogenetics and gene editing. It also provides a basis to develop novel therapies for chronic gut disorders.
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Buckinx R, Timmermans JP. Targeting the gastrointestinal tract with viral vectors: state of the art and possible applications in research and therapy. Histochem Cell Biol 2016; 146:709-720. [PMID: 27665281 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-016-1496-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While there is a large body of preclinical data on the use of viral vectors in gene transfer, relatively little is known about viral gene transfer in the gastrointestinal tract. Viral vector technology is especially underused in the field of neurogastroenterology when compared to brain research. This review provides an overview of the studies employing viral vectors-in particular retroviruses, adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses-to transduce different cell types in the intestine. Early work mainly focused on mucosal transduction, but had limited success due to the harsh luminal conditions in the gastrointestinal tract and the high turnover rate of enterocytes. More recently, several studies have successfully employed viral gene transfer to target the enteric nervous system and its progenitors. Although several hurdles still need to be overcome, in particular on how to augment transduction efficiency and specific cell targeting, viral vector technology holds strong potential not only as a valid research tool in fundamental gastroenterological research but also as a therapeutic agent in translational (bio)medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roeland Buckinx
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Timmermans
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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