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Erguven P, Sevgin K, Kotil T, Kaleci B, Caglar HG, Ozer OF. Continuous Thymoquinone Administration Mitigates Sodium Iodate-Induced Retinal Degeneration in Rats. Curr Eye Res 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39039707 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2381203] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the protective or therapeutic effect of thymoquinone (TQ) in a retinal degeneration rat model and its relationships with the retina ultrastructure, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), caspase-3, and RPE65 expressions and to determine whether TQ has a therapeutic effect at the biochemical level. METHODS A total of 25 adult Wistar albino rats were divided into the following treatment groups: saline (control: CONT), CO (corn oil), sodium iodate (SI), TQ + SI, and SI + TQ injection groups. Retina morphology, RPE65, HO-1, and caspase-3 expression levels were evaluated using immunohistochemistry, and optical density was determined using ImageJ. Ultrastructural evaluations were performed with electron microscopy. Thiol-disulfide homeostatic parameters were examined in serum samples. RESULTS Outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness was significantly higher in the SI + TQ group compared to the SI group. The RPE65 expression significantly decreased in the SI group compared with the CONT and CO groups. A significant increase in RPE65 expression level and a significant decrease in caspase-3 expression level were found in the SI + TQ group compared with the SI group. The increase in HO-1 expression level was significantly higher in the TQ treatment groups, particularly in the SI + TQ group. In the SI and TQ + SI groups, the ONL thickness significantly decreased with a significant increase in caspase-3 expression compared to the CONT and CO groups. In the treatment groups, decreased organelle damage was observed on electron microscopy. In the SI + TQ group, the disulfide/native thiol and disulfide/total thiol ratios were significantly lower than all other groups, while the native/total thiol ratio was significantly higher than the other experimental groups. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides evidence that continuous TQ treatment can increase HO-1 and RPE65 expression and decrease apoptosis (caspase-3 levels), thereby preserving the retina at the ultrastructural level. Moreover, TQ administration can maintain thiol/disulfide homeostasis in SI-induced retinal degeneration-modelled rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelin Erguven
- Department of Histology and Embryology, International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kubra Sevgin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, International Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tugba Kotil
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Belisa Kaleci
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Albanian University, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Omer Faruk Ozer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem University, Istanbul, Turkey
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2
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Atalay E, Altuğ B, Çalışkan ME, Ceylan S, Özler ZS, Figueiredo G, Lako M, Figueiredo F. Animal Models for Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: A Critical Narrative Literature Review. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:671-696. [PMID: 38280103 PMCID: PMC10853161 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00880-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This literature review will provide a critical narrative overview of the highlights and potential pitfalls of the reported animal models for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and will identify the neglected aspects of this research area. There exists significant heterogeneity in the literature regarding the methodology used to create the model and the predefined duration after the insult when the model is supposedly fully fit for evaluations and/or for testing various therapeutic interventions. The literature is also replete with examples wherein the implementation of a specific model varies significantly across different studies. For example, the concentration of the chemical, as well as its duration and technique of exposure in a chemically induced LSCD model, has a great impact not only on the validity of the model but also on the severity of the complications. Furthermore, while some models induce a full-blown clinical picture of total LSCD, some are hindered by their ability to yield only partial LSCD. Another aspect to consider is the nature of the damage induced by a specific method. As thermal methods cause more stromal scarring, they may be better suited for assessing the anti-fibrotic properties of a particular treatment. On the other hand, since chemical burns cause more neovascularisation, they provide the opportunity to tap into the potential treatments for anti-neovascularisation. The animal species (i.e., rats, mice, rabbits, etc.) is also a crucial factor in the validity of the model and its potential for clinical translation, with each animal having its unique set of advantages and disadvantages. This review will also elaborate on other overlooked aspects, such as the anaesthetic(s) used during experiments, the gender of the animals, care after LSCD induction, and model validation. The review will conclude by providing future perspectives and suggestions for further developments in this rather important area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eray Atalay
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Medical School, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Burcugül Altuğ
- Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Production Application, Research Centre (ESTEM), Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | | | - Semih Ceylan
- Eskişehir Osmangazi University Medical School, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | | | | | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Francisco Figueiredo
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK.
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3
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Loiseau A, Raîche-Marcoux G, Maranda C, Bertrand N, Boisselier E. Animal Models in Eye Research: Focus on Corneal Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16661. [PMID: 38068983 PMCID: PMC10706114 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The eye is a complex sensory organ that enables visual perception of the world. The dysfunction of any of these tissues can impair vision. Conduction studies on laboratory animals are essential to ensure the safety of therapeutic products directly applied or injected into the eye to treat ocular diseases before eventually proceeding to clinical trials. Among these tissues, the cornea has unique homeostatic and regenerative mechanisms for maintaining transparency and refraction of external light, which are essential for vision. However, being the outermost tissue of the eye and directly exposed to the external environment, the cornea is particularly susceptible to injury and diseases. This review highlights the evidence for selecting appropriate animals to better understand and treat corneal diseases, which rank as the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide. The development of reliable and human-relevant animal models is, therefore, a valuable research tool for understanding and translating fundamental mechanistic findings, as well as for assessing therapeutic potential in humans. First, this review emphasizes the unique characteristics of animal models used in ocular research. Subsequently, it discusses current animal models associated with human corneal pathologies, their utility in understanding ocular disease mechanisms, and their role as translational models for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Loiseau
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Gabrielle Raîche-Marcoux
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Cloé Maranda
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
| | - Nicolas Bertrand
- Faculty of Pharmacy, CHU de Quebec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada;
| | - Elodie Boisselier
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, CHU de Québec Research Center, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (G.R.-M.); (C.M.)
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4
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Nambiar MH, Liechti L, Müller F, Bernau W, Studer H, Roy AS, Seiler TG, Büchler P. Orientation and depth dependent mechanical properties of the porcine cornea: Experiments and parameter identification. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109266. [PMID: 36179857 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109266] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The porcine cornea is a standard animal model in ophthalmic research, making its biomechanical characterization and modeling important to develop novel treatments such as crosslinking and refractive surgeries. In this study, we present a numerical model of the porcine cornea based on experimental measurements that captures both the depth dependence and orientation dependence of the mechanical response. The mechanical parameters of the established anisotropic hyperelastic material models of Gasser, Holzapfel and Ogden (HGO) and Markert were determined using tensile tests. Corneas were cut with a femtosecond laser in the anterior (100 μm), central (350 μm), and posterior (600 μm) regions into nasal-temporal, superior-inferior, and diagonal strips of 150 μm thickness. These uniformly thick strips were tested at a low speed using a single-axis testing machine. The results showed that the corneal mechanical properties remained constant in the anterior half of the cornea regardless of orientation, but that the material softened in the posterior layer. These results are consistent with the circular orientation of collagen observed in porcine corneas using X-ray scattering. In addition, the parameters obtained for the HGO model were able to reproduce the published inflation tests, indicating that it is suitable for simulating the mechanical response of the entire cornea. Such a model constitutes the basis for in silico platforms to develop new ophthalmic treatments. In this way, researchers can match their experimental surrogate porcine model with a numerical counterpart and validate the prediction of their algorithms in a complete and accessible environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malavika H Nambiar
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Layko Liechti
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Fabian Müller
- Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG, Allmendstrasse 11, 2562, Port, Switzerland.
| | - Werner Bernau
- Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG, Allmendstrasse 11, 2562, Port, Switzerland.
| | - Harald Studer
- Optimo Medical, Robert-Walser-Platz 7, 2503, Biel, Switzerland.
| | - Abhijit S Roy
- Narayana Nethralaya Eye Clinic, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560010, India.
| | - Theo G Seiler
- IROC AG, Institut für Refraktive und Ophthalmo-Chirurgie, Stockerstrasse 37, 8002, Zürich, Switzerland; Universitätsklinik für Augenheilkunde, Inselspital Bern, Freiburgstrasse 15, 3010, Bern, Switzerland; Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Philippe Büchler
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
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Lossi L. Anatomical features for an adequate choice of the experimental animal model in biomedicine: III. Ferret, goat, sheep, and horse. Ann Anat 2022; 244:151978. [PMID: 35787443 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.151978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The anatomical characteristics of each of the many species today employed in biomedical research are very important when selecting the correct animal model(s), especially for conducting translational research. In previous papers, these features have been considered for fish (D'Angelo et al. Ann. Anat, 2016, 205:75), the most common laboratory rodents, rabbits, and pigs (Lossi et al. 2016). I here follow this line of discussion by dealing with the importance of proper knowledge of ferrets, goats, sheep, and horses' main anatomical features in translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lossi
- University of Turin, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Turin, Italy; INN, Istituto Nazionale di Neuroscienze, Turin, Italy.
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6
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Freitas HM, Somma AT, Moore BA, Montiani-Ferreira F. Retrospective and prospective study of progressive retinal atrophy in dogs presented to the veterinary hospital of the Federal University of Parana, Brazil. Open Vet J 2021; 11:370-378. [PMID: 34722198 PMCID: PMC8541721 DOI: 10.5455/ovj.2021.v11.i3.6] [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: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is one of the main causes of blindness in dogs. Despite its clinical importance, there is limited epidemiological information available, particularly in South America. Aim: The main objective of this study was to perform a retrospective, and prospective analysis of PRA in dogs admitted at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Paraná, Brazil. Methods: Medical records of dogs admitted between 2014 and 2018 were selected through the archives of the Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory. A total of 130 dogs with medical records indicating clinical signs suggestive of PRA, independent of the electroretinography confirmation, were selected. In order to investigate common characteristics, each patient’s clinical history, ophthalmic examination, and visual status were reviewed (obstacle course, pupillary light reflex, dazzle reflex, visual tracking to a cotton ball, and menace responses). Additionally, a prospective study was performed, where flash electroretinography was performed on 30 animals with clinical signs suggestive of PRA, and 14 animals were selected for fundus photography. Data were assessed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: A total of 2,055 dogs were evaluated between January 2014 and December 2018. Of those, 130 animals were presumptively diagnosed with PRA (6.33%), consisting of 18 different breeds and 27 dogs with a mixed pedigree. Poodles were the most prevalent breed (n = 26; 20.00%), followed by Cocker Spaniels (n = 19; 14.62%). In the reported caseload, Pomeranians showed a considerably higher odds ratio for PRA development (15.36%). Conclusion: Pomeranians presented a high odds ratio, suggesting that further studies may be performed with breeds with a high potential for developing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique M Freitas
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory (LABOCO), Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - André T Somma
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory (LABOCO), Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Bret A Moore
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Fabiano Montiani-Ferreira
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory (LABOCO), Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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7
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Role of biometals in activation of immune cum inflammatory response in ovine ageing eye: a potential model for understanding human geriatric eye diseases. Biometals 2021; 34:1081-1098. [PMID: 34297243 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-021-00331-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to evaluate the age-related changes in biometal and antimicrobial peptide (cathelicidin) concentration and their role in oxidative cum pro-inflammatory cascade in an ovine animal model. Clinically healthy ovine (n = 126) were grouped as Group I (n = 55, age = up to 3 years), Group II (n = 52, age = above 3-below 6 years) and Group III (n = 19, age = 6 years above). Samples (aqueous humour and lens of the eye) were collected stored at - 80 °C till further analysis. In aqueous humour, the concentration of zinc (p < 0.001 in group III), copper (p < 0.05 in group II and p < 0.001 group III) and iron (p < 0.05 in group III) were significantly increased compared to group I. While as the concentration of magnesium were significantly decreased in group II (p < 0.001) and group III (p < 0.05) compared to group I. Similarly in eye lens the level of copper remained uniform as no significant change was observed across different age groups, while as significantly elevated levels of iron were observed in group III (p < 0.001) compared to group I. whereas, levels of lens Zinc (p < 0.05 in group II) and magnesium (p < 0.05 in group III and p < 0.001 in group II) were significantly decreased compared to group I. Age-dependent increase in levels of oxidation products which include advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in aqueous humour and lenses of group II and group III (p < 0.001) and MDA in aqueous humour of group III (p < 0.05) were found compared to levels recorded in group I. In contrast, levels of antioxidants which include lens vitamin C in group II and group III (p < 0.01) and lens superoxide dismutase (SOD) in group III (p < 0.001) were significantly increased compared to group I. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in aqueous humour revealed significantly (p < 0.001) age-dependent increase in IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α elevated in group III, and group II as compared to group I, However, cathelicidin level in aqueous humour of group III and group II were significantly (p < 0.001) lower as compared to groups I. Furthermore,the present study observed significant (p < 0.05) metal-metal positive interaction between copper levels in lens with levels of (iron and magnesium) in aqueous humour, levels of Zn in lens with levels of Zn in aqueous humour, levels of Mg in lens with levels of (Cu, Zn and Mg) in aqueous humour. In addition,the present study reports significantly negative interaction between levels of lens Fe with levels of lens magnesium level, aqueous humour magnesium level and levels of copper in aqueous humour. A significantly positive correlation was observed between oxidative markers and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, while a significant negative correlation was observed between antioxidant defence markers and pro-inflammatory cytokine. These results suggest the essential role of age-related changes in biometal levels, oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These changes might help understand age-related changes in pathogenesis and effective targeting of pathogenetic pathways in ocular diseases.
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Harding P, Cunha DL, Moosajee M. Animal and cellular models of microphthalmia. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2021; 2:2633004021997447. [PMID: 37181112 PMCID: PMC10032472 DOI: 10.1177/2633004021997447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Microphthalmia is a rare developmental eye disorder affecting 1 in 7000 births. It is defined as a small (axial length ⩾2 standard deviations below the age-adjusted mean) underdeveloped eye, caused by disruption of ocular development through genetic or environmental factors in the first trimester of pregnancy. Clinical phenotypic heterogeneity exists amongst patients with varying levels of severity, and associated ocular and systemic features. Up to 11% of blind children are reported to have microphthalmia, yet currently no treatments are available. By identifying the aetiology of microphthalmia and understanding how the mechanisms of eye development are disrupted, we can gain a better understanding of the pathogenesis. Animal models, mainly mouse, zebrafish and Xenopus, have provided extensive information on the genetic regulation of oculogenesis, and how perturbation of these pathways leads to microphthalmia. However, differences exist between species, hence cellular models, such as patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) optic vesicles, are now being used to provide greater insights into the human disease process. Progress in 3D cellular modelling techniques has enhanced the ability of researchers to study interactions of different cell types during eye development. Through improved molecular knowledge of microphthalmia, preventative or postnatal therapies may be developed, together with establishing genotype-phenotype correlations in order to provide patients with the appropriate prognosis, multidisciplinary care and informed genetic counselling. This review summarises some key discoveries from animal and cellular models of microphthalmia and discusses how innovative new models can be used to further our understanding in the future. Plain language summary Animal and Cellular Models of the Eye Disorder, Microphthalmia (Small Eye) Microphthalmia, meaning a small, underdeveloped eye, is a rare disorder that children are born with. Genetic changes or variations in the environment during the first 3 months of pregnancy can disrupt early development of the eye, resulting in microphthalmia. Up to 11% of blind children have microphthalmia, yet currently no treatments are available. By understanding the genes necessary for eye development, we can determine how disruption by genetic changes or environmental factors can cause this condition. This helps us understand why microphthalmia occurs, and ensure patients are provided with the appropriate clinical care and genetic counselling advice. Additionally, by understanding the causes of microphthalmia, researchers can develop treatments to prevent or reduce the severity of this condition. Animal models, particularly mice, zebrafish and frogs, which can also develop small eyes due to the same genetic/environmental changes, have helped us understand the genes which are important for eye development and can cause birth eye defects when disrupted. Studying a patient's own cells grown in the laboratory can further help researchers understand how changes in genes affect their function. Both animal and cellular models can be used to develop and test new drugs, which could provide treatment options for patients living with microphthalmia. This review summarises the key discoveries from animal and cellular models of microphthalmia and discusses how innovative new models can be used to further our understanding in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath
Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS
Foundation Trust, London, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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9
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Somma AT, Montiani-Ferreira F, Schafaschek AI, Gatti L, Featherstone H. Surveying veterinary ophthalmologists to assess the advice given to owners of pets with irreversible blindness. Vet Rec 2020; 187:e30. [PMID: 32532841 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary purpose of this survey was to determine how veterinary ophthalmologists manage cases of irreversible blindness and to report the most common causes of blindness. METHODS Respondents completed a questionnaire sent by email with the cooperation of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, the European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists and the Latin American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. The questionnaire was developed containing 12 questions with both open and closed multiple-choice response options. RESULTS One hundred and eight veterinary ophthalmologists answered the questionnaire. Of the respondents, 83 per cent had graduated for more than 10 years. Glaucoma (63.56 per cent) was the main cited cause of blindness, followed by progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) (17.80 per cent) and retinal detachment (6.78 per cent). The major concerns of owners refer to the impact of blindness on quality-of-life, (39.31 per cent), followed by depression and anxiety (20 per cent), and environment adaptation (11.72 per cent). General recommendations include avoidance of changes in the domestic environment (18.45 per cent), use of auditory stimulation (14.09 per cent) and avoidance of dangerous areas (12.75 per cent). Almost 31 per cent of professionals do not recommend the use of literature on how to deal with blind pets. CONCLUSIONS The survey determined glaucoma and PRA as the most common causes of irreversible blindness in pets. Several recommendations that are frequently given to owners of blind pets are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Tavares Somma
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luisa Gatti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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10
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Thompson DA, Iannaccone A, Ali RR, Arshavsky VY, Audo I, Bainbridge JWB, Besirli CG, Birch DG, Branham KE, Cideciyan AV, Daiger SP, Dalkara D, Duncan JL, Fahim AT, Flannery JG, Gattegna R, Heckenlively JR, Heon E, Jayasundera KT, Khan NW, Klassen H, Leroy BP, Molday RS, Musch DC, Pennesi ME, Petersen-Jones SM, Pierce EA, Rao RC, Reh TA, Sahel JA, Sharon D, Sieving PA, Strettoi E, Yang P, Zacks DN. Advancing Clinical Trials for Inherited Retinal Diseases: Recommendations from the Second Monaciano Symposium. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:2. [PMID: 32832209 PMCID: PMC7414644 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Major advances in the study of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) have placed efforts to develop treatments for these blinding conditions at the forefront of the emerging field of precision medicine. As a result, the growth of clinical trials for IRDs has increased rapidly over the past decade and is expected to further accelerate as more therapeutic possibilities emerge and qualified participants are identified. Although guided by established principles, these specialized trials, requiring analysis of novel outcome measures and endpoints in small patient populations, present multiple challenges relative to study design and ethical considerations. This position paper reviews recent accomplishments and existing challenges in clinical trials for IRDs and presents a set of recommendations aimed at rapidly advancing future progress. The goal is to stimulate discussions among researchers, funding agencies, industry, and policy makers that will further the design, conduct, and analysis of clinical trials needed to accelerate the approval of effective treatments for IRDs, while promoting advocacy and ensuring patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Thompson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alessandro Iannaccone
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Vadim Y Arshavsky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Isabelle Audo
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France
| | | | - Cagri G Besirli
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kari E Branham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven P Daiger
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Jacque L Duncan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Abigail T Fahim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - John G Flannery
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - John R Heckenlively
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elise Heon
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Thiran Jayasundera
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Naheed W Khan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Henry Klassen
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Stem Cell Research Center, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Bart P Leroy
- Department of Ophthalmology and Center Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital and University, Ghent, Belgium.,Division of Ophthalmology and Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert S Molday
- Department of Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David C Musch
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Simon M Petersen-Jones
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Eric A Pierce
- Ocular Genomics Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rajesh C Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thomas A Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jose A Sahel
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France.,Fondation Ophtalmologique Rothschild, Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dror Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Paul A Sieving
- Department of Ophthalmology and Center for Ocular Regenerative Therapy, University of California-Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.,National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Enrica Strettoi
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Paul Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science Center, Portland, OR, USA
| | - David N Zacks
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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11
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Castro BFM, Vieira LC, Vasconcelos-Santos DV, Cenachi SPDF, Cotta OAL, Guerra MCA, Paiva MRB, Silva LM, Silva-Cunha A, Fialho SL. Intravitreal thalidomide ameliorates inflammation in a model of experimental uveitis induced by BCG. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 81:106129. [PMID: 32018067 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.106129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Uveitis encompasses a heterogeneous and complex group of conditions characterized by intraocular inflammation, frequently affecting young individuals and representing an important cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Animal models have been critical to understand etiology and pathogenesis of uveitis, being also employed to assess new therapeutic strategies, preceding human studies. However, there is still a need of developing and studying different models, due to the difficulties in recapitulating all forms of human uveitis effectively. Although corticosteroids are usually the first-line therapy for non-infectious uveitis, their long-term use is limited by potentially serious side effects in all possible delivery routes. Thus, thalidomide, a drug with anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties, was investigated in a novel experimental model of uveitis, induced by Mycobacterium bovis Calmette-Guérin Bacillus (BCG), in rabbits. The experimental protocol consisted of two subcutaneous injections of BCG, followed by two intravitreal injections of the same antigen, inducing panuveitis. Animals were treated with a single intravitreal injection of thalidomide suspension or PBS. Clinical manifestations of uveitis improved after intravitreal thalidomide, involving both anterior and posterior segments. Protein content, N-acetyl-b-glucosaminidase (NAG) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities were elevated in ocular tissues after disease induction, further decreasing post-treatment with intravitreal thalidomide. This therapeutic response was also confirmed on ocular electrophysiology, as well as histopathology. This experimental model induced panuveitis in rabbits using a low-cost mycobacterial antigen, with intraocular inflammation subsequently improving after treatment. Intravitreal thalidomide may be a potential alternative to treat intraocular inflammation in corticosteroid-sparing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Fernanda Moreira Castro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 6627 Presidente Antônio Carlos Avenue, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Lorena Carla Vieira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 6627 Presidente Antônio Carlos Avenue, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Daniel Vitor Vasconcelos-Santos
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 190 Professor Alfredo Balena Avenue, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Sarah Pereira de Freitas Cenachi
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 190 Professor Alfredo Balena Avenue, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Oliver Araújo Lacerda Cotta
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 80 Conde Pereira Carneiro Street, Gameleira, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30510-010, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina Andrade Guerra
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 80 Conde Pereira Carneiro Street, Gameleira, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30510-010, Brazil.
| | - Mayara Rodrigues Brandão Paiva
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 6627 Presidente Antônio Carlos Avenue, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Luciana Maria Silva
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 80 Conde Pereira Carneiro Street, Gameleira, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30510-010, Brazil.
| | - Armando Silva-Cunha
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 6627 Presidente Antônio Carlos Avenue, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Sílvia Ligório Fialho
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 80 Conde Pereira Carneiro Street, Gameleira, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 30510-010, Brazil.
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12
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Abstract
Animal models are powerful tools for studying diseases that affect the eye, such as exfoliation syndrome (XFS). Two types of animal models have been used to investigate the pathophysiology of XFS and glaucoma. One class of models is engineered to have key features of a disease by alteration of their genome (genotype-driven animal models). LOXL1 is the first gene known to increase the risk for developing XFS in humans. Two transgenic mouse models with altered Loxl1 genes have been generated to study XFS. One strain of mice, Loxl1 deficient mice, also known as Loxl1 knockout mice, have had the Loxl1 gene removed from their genomes. Another strain has been engineered to produce excess amounts of the protein produced by the Loxl1 gene, or Loxl1 overexpression. A second class of animal models includes naturally occurring strains of mice that exhibit key clinical features of a disease. Studies of these phenotype-driven animal models may identify genes that cause disease and may also provide a valuable resource for investigating pathogenesis. One strain of mice, B6-Lyst, has several key features of human XFS, including ocular production of exfoliation-like material, and stereotypical iris abnormalities. Studies of this range of mice and other public mouse genetic resources have provided some important insights into the biology of XFS and may be useful for future studies to test the efficacy of drug therapies.
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13
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THE EYE OF THE AZARA'S AGOUTI ( DASYPROCTA AZARAE): MORPHOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS AND SELECTED OPHTHALMIC DIAGNOSTIC TESTS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 48:1108-1119. [PMID: 29297794 DOI: 10.1638/1042-7260-48.4.1108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to carry out a descriptive investigation of the Azara's agouti ( Dasyprocta azarae) eye and to establish reference values of select ophthalmic diagnostic tests and physiologic parameters. A total of 19 healthy agoutis were used. Select ophthalmic diagnostic tests were performed, including Schirmer tear test type I (STTI), analysis of the conjunctival bacterial microflora, corneal esthesiometry, and tonometry. B-mode ultrasonic biometry, fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, and gross and histologic analysis of two eyes were also performed. Reference range parameters found for the ocular diagnostic tests were esthesiometry, 4.50 ± 0.36 cm (0.7 ± 0.01 g/mm2); tonometry, 11.61 ± 0.44 mm Hg; palpebral fissure length, 1.70 ± 0.25 mm; STTI, 9.73 ± 0.47 mm/min; corneal thickness, 0.8 ± 0.003 mm; anterior chamber depth, 1.71 ± 0.07 mm; lens thickness, 5.03 ± 0.05 mm; vitreous chamber depth, 5.12 ± 0.01 mm; and globe axial length, 14.02 ± 0.01 mm. A paurangiotic, retinal, vascular pattern with a conspicuous pigment-laden optic disc was observed. The most frequent bacteria isolated were nonhemolytic Streptococcus sp. (36.84%), followed by Enterobacter harfinia (31.58%) and Escherichia coli (28.95%). No significant differences between genders or between left and right eyes were found for any of the results. Gross and histologic evaluation of two eyes confirmed the presence of melanocytic pigment granules between optic nerve fibers. The diagnostic values and the morphologic observations described here provide a reference to veterinarians to aid in the diagnosis of ocular disease.
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14
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Retinal degeneration rat model: A study on the structural and functional changes in the retina following injection of sodium iodate. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2019; 196:111514. [PMID: 31154277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2019.111514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Retinal disorders account for a large proportion of ocular disorders that can lead to visual impairment or blindness, and yet our limited knowledge in the pathogenesis and choice of appropriate animal models for new treatment modalities may contribute to ineffective therapies. Although genetic in vivo models are favored, the variable expressivity and penetrance of these heterogeneous disorders can cause difficulties in assessing potential treatments against retinal degeneration. Hence, an attractive alternative is to develop a chemically-induced model that is both cost-friendly and standardizable. Sodium iodate is an oxidative chemical that is used to simulate late stage retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. In this study, retinal degeneration was induced through systemic administration of sodium iodate (NaIO3) at varying doses up to 80 mg/kg in Sprague-Dawley rats. An analysis on the visual response of the rats by electroretinography (ERG) showed a decrease in photoreceptor function with NaIO3 administration at a dose of 40 mg/kg or greater. The results correlated with the TUNEL assay, which revealed signs of DNA damage throughout the retina. Histomorphological analysis also revealed extensive structural lesions throughout the outer retina and parts of the inner retina. Our results provided a detailed view of NaIO3-induced retinal degeneration, and showed that the administration of 40 mg/kg NaIO3 was sufficient to generate disturbances in retinal function. The pathological findings in this model reveal a degenerating retina, and can be further utilized to develop effective therapies for RPE, photoreceptor, and bipolar cell regeneration.
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15
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Haderspeck JC, Chuchuy J, Kustermann S, Liebau S, Loskill P. Organ-on-a-chip technologies that can transform ophthalmic drug discovery and disease modeling. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2018; 14:47-57. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2019.1551873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin C. Haderspeck
- Institute of Neuroanatomy & Developmental Biology (INDB), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Johanna Chuchuy
- Department of Women’s Health, Research Institute for Women’s Health, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Stefan Kustermann
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Liebau
- Institute of Neuroanatomy & Developmental Biology (INDB), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Loskill
- Department of Women’s Health, Research Institute for Women’s Health, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Stuttgart, Germany
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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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17
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Reis LM, Semina EV. Genetic landscape of isolated pediatric cataracts: extreme heterogeneity and variable inheritance patterns within genes. Hum Genet 2018; 138:847-863. [PMID: 30187164 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-018-1932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric cataract represents an important cause of pediatric visual impairment. While both genetic and environmental causes for pediatric cataract are known, a large proportion remains idiopathic. The purpose of this review is to discuss genes involved in isolated pediatric cataract, with a focus on variable inheritance patterns within genes. Mutations in over 52 genes are known to cause isolated pediatric cataract, with a major contribution from genes encoding for crystallins, transcription factors, membrane proteins, and cytoskeletal proteins. Interestingly, both dominant and recessive inheritance patterns have been reported for mutations in 13 different cataract genes. For some genes, dominant and recessive alleles represent distinct types of mutations, but for many, especially missense variants, there are no clear patterns to distinguish between dominant and recessive alleles. Further research into the functional effects of these mutations, as well as additional data on the frequency of the identified variants, is needed to clarify variant pathogenicity. Exome sequencing continues to be successful in identifying novel genes associated with congenital cataract but is hindered by the extreme genetic heterogeneity of this condition. The large number of idiopathic cases suggests that more genes and potentially novel mechanisms of gene disruption remain to be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Reis
- Department of Pediatrics and Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Elena V Semina
- Department of Pediatrics and Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
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18
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Abstract
Failure of analgesic drugs in clinical development is common. Along with the current "reproducibility crisis" in pain research, this has led some to question the use of animal models. Experimental models tend to comprise genetically homogeneous groups of young, male rodents in restricted and unvarying environments, and pain-producing assays that may not closely mimic the natural condition of interest. In addition, typical experimental outcome measures using thresholds or latencies for withdrawal may not adequately reflect clinical pain phenomena pertinent to human patients. It has been suggested that naturally occurring disease in veterinary patients may provide more valid models for the study of painful disease. Many painful conditions in animals resemble those in people. Like humans, veterinary patients are genetically diverse, often live to old age, and enjoy a complex environment, often the same as their owners. There is increasing interest in the development and validation of outcome measures for detecting pain in veterinary patients; these include objective (eg, locomotor activity monitoring, kinetic evaluation, quantitative sensory testing, and bioimaging) and subjective (eg, pain scales and quality of life scales) measures. Veterinary subject diversity, pathophysiological similarities to humans, and diverse outcome measures could yield better generalizability of findings and improved translation potential, potentially benefiting both humans and animals. The Comparative Oncology Trial Consortium in dogs has pawed the way for translational research, surmounting the challenges inherent in veterinary clinical trials. This review describes numerous conditions similarly applicable to pain research, with potential mutual benefits for human and veterinary clinicians, and their respective patients.
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19
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Gower NJD, Barry RJ, Edmunds MR, Titcomb LC, Denniston AK. Drug discovery in ophthalmology: past success, present challenges, and future opportunities. BMC Ophthalmol 2016; 16:11. [PMID: 26774505 PMCID: PMC4715274 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-016-0188-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug discovery has undergone major transformations in the last century, progressing from the recognition and refinement of natural products with therapeutic benefit, to the systematic screening of molecular libraries on whole organisms or cell lines and more recently to a more target-based approach driven by greater knowledge of the physiological and pathological pathways involved. Despite this evolution increasing challenges within the drug discovery industry are causing escalating rates of failure of development pipelines. DISCUSSION We review the challenges facing the drug discovery industry, and discuss what attempts are being made to increase the productivity of drug development, including a refocusing on the study of the basic biology of the disease, and an embracing of the concept of 'translational research'. We consider what ophthalmic drug discovery can learn from the sector in general and discuss strategies to overcome the present limitations. This includes advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of disease; improvements in animal models of human disease; improvements in ophthalmic drug delivery and attempts at patient stratification within clinical trials. As we look to the future, we argue that investment in ophthalmic drug development must continue to cover the whole translational spectrum (from 'bench to bedside and back again') with recognition that both biological discovery and clinical understanding will drive drug discovery, providing safe and effective therapies for ocular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J. D. Gower
- />Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Robert J. Barry
- />Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- />Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Matthew R. Edmunds
- />Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- />Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Lucy C. Titcomb
- />Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alastair K. Denniston
- />Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- />Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- />Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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20
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Toulis V, Garanto A, Marfany G. Combining Zebrafish and Mouse Models to Test the Function of Deubiquitinating Enzyme (Dubs) Genes in Development: Role of USP45 in the Retina. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1449:85-101. [PMID: 27613029 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3756-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ubiquitination is a dynamic and reversible posttranslational modification. Much effort has been devoted to characterize the function of ubiquitin pathway genes in the cell context, but much less is known on their functional role in the development and maintenance of organs and tissues in the organism. In fact, several ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are implicated in human pathological disorders, from cancer to neurodegeneration. The aim of our work is to explore the relevance of DUBs in retinal function in health and disease, particularly since some genes related to the ubiquitin or SUMO pathways cause retinal dystrophies, a group of rare diseases that affect 1:3000 individuals worldwide. We propose zebrafish as an extremely useful and informative genetic model to characterize the function of any particular gene in the retina, and thus complement the expression data from mouse. A preliminary characterization of gene expression in mouse retinas (RT-PCR and in situ hybridization) was performed to select particularly interesting genes, and we later replicated the experiments in zebrafish. As a proof of concept, we selected ups45 to be knocked down by morpholino injection in zebrafish embryos. Morphant phenotypic analysis showed moderate to severe eye morphological defects, with a defective formation of the retinal structures, therefore supporting the relevance of DUBs in the formation and differentiation of the vertebrate retina, and suggesting that genes encoding ubiquitin pathway enzymes are good candidates for causing hereditary retinal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Toulis
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandro Garanto
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Human Genetics, and Donders Center for Neurosciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gemma Marfany
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.
- Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain.
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21
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Bourguet A, Piccicuto V, Donzel E, Carlus M, Chahory S. A case of primary choroidal malignant melanoma in a cat. Vet Ophthalmol 2014; 18:345-9. [PMID: 25399839 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This report describes the clinical presentation, diagnosis, histological lesions, and prognosis of a primary choroidal malignant melanoma in a 15-year-old cat. The animal was presented for unilateral blindness. On ocular examination, a raised pigmented mass protruding from the posterior pole into the vitreous body was observed by diffuse transillumination and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Ocular ultrasound and computer tomography (CT) scan confirmed localization of the tumor to the posterior segment. The diagnosis of primary choroidal melanoma was confirmed by histopathology after enucleation. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a feline malignant melanoma with a primary choroidal localization without iris involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Bourguet
- Unité de Recherche en Ophtalmologie Vétérinaire, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Virginie Piccicuto
- Unité d'embryologie, d'Histologie et d'Anatomie Pathologique, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Elise Donzel
- Unité de Recherche en Ophtalmologie Vétérinaire, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Marine Carlus
- Unité d'embryologie, d'Histologie et d'Anatomie Pathologique, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Sabine Chahory
- Unité de Recherche en Ophtalmologie Vétérinaire, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
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