1
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Subramani M, Lambrecht B, Ahmad I. Human microglia-derived proinflammatory cytokines facilitate human retinal ganglion cell development and regeneration. Stem Cell Reports 2024:S2213-6711(24)00189-9. [PMID: 39059376 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia (μG), the resident immune cells in the central nervous system, surveil the parenchyma to maintain the structural and functional homeostasis of neurons. Besides, they influence neurogenesis and synaptogenesis through complement-mediated phagocytosis. Emerging evidence suggests that μG may also influence development through proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we examined the premise that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), the two most prominent components of the μG secretome, influence retinal development, specifically the morphological and functional differentiation of human retinal ganglion cells (hRGCs). Using controlled generation of hRGCs and human μG (hμG) from pluripotent stem cells, we demonstrate that TNF-α and IL-1β secreted by unchallenged hμG did not influence hRGC generation. However, their presence significantly facilitated neuritogenesis along with the basal function of hRGCs, which involved the recruitment of the AKT/mTOR pathway. We present ex vivo evidence that proinflammatory cytokines may play an important role in the morphological and physiological maturation of hRGCs, which may be recapitulated for regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murali Subramani
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Brandon Lambrecht
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Iqbal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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2
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Yuan F, Zhang R, Li J, Lei Q, Wang S, Jiang F, Guo Y, Xiang M. CCR5-overexpressing mesenchymal stem cells protect against experimental autoimmune uveitis: insights from single-cell transcriptome analysis. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:136. [PMID: 38802924 PMCID: PMC11131209 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03134-3] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune uveitis is a leading cause of severe vision loss, and animal models provide unique opportunities for studying its pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Here we employ scRNA-seq, RNA-seq and various molecular and cellular approaches to characterize mouse models of classical experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), revealing that EAU causes broad retinal neuron degeneration and marker downregulation, and that Müller glia may act as antigen-presenting cells. Moreover, EAU immune response is primarily driven by Th1 cells, and results in dramatic upregulation of CC chemokines, especially CCL5, in the EAU retina. Accordingly, overexpression of CCR5, a CCL5 receptor, in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) enhances their homing capacity and improves their immunomodulatory outcomes in preventing EAU, by reducing infiltrating T cells and activated microglia and suppressing Nlrp3 inflammasome activation. Taken together, our data not only provide valuable insights into the molecular characteristics of EAU but also open an avenue for innovative MSC-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jiani Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Qiannan Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Shuyi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Fanying Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yanan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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3
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Zhou G, Pang S, Li Y, Gao J. Progress in the generation of spinal cord organoids over the past decade and future perspectives. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1013-1019. [PMID: 37862203 PMCID: PMC10749595 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord organoids are three-dimensional tissues derived from stem cells that recapitulate the primary morphological and functional characteristics of the spinal cord in vivo. As emerging bioengineering methods have led to the optimization of cell culture protocols, spinal cord organoids technology has made remarkable advancements in the past decade. Our literature search found that current spinal cord organoids do not only dynamically simulate neural tube formation but also exhibit diverse cytoarchitecture along the dorsal-ventral and rostral-caudal axes. Moreover, fused organoids that integrate motor neurons and other regionally specific organoids exhibit intricate neural circuits that allows for functional assessment. These qualities make spinal cord organoids valuable tools for disease modeling, drug screening, and tissue regeneration. By utilizing this emergent technology, researchers have made significant progress in investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets of spinal cord diseases. However, at present, spinal cord organoid technology remains in its infancy and has not been widely applied in translational medicine. Establishment of the next generation of spinal cord organoids will depend on good manufacturing practice standards and needs to focus on diverse cell phenotypes and electrophysiological functionality evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siyuan Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of International Medical Service, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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4
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Martínez AL, Brea J, López D, Cosme N, Barro M, Monroy X, Burgueño J, Merlos M, Loza MI. In vitro models for neuropathic pain phenotypic screening in brain therapeutics. Pharmacol Res 2024; 202:107111. [PMID: 38382648 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The discovery of brain therapeutics faces a significant challenge due to the low translatability of preclinical results into clinical success. To address this gap, several efforts have been made to obtain more translatable neuronal models for phenotypic screening. These models allow the selection of active compounds without predetermined knowledge of drug targets. In this review, we present an overview of various existing models within the field, examining their strengths and limitations, particularly in the context of neuropathic pain research. We illustrate the usefulness of these models through a comparative review in three crucial areas: i) the development of novel phenotypic screening strategies specifically for neuropathic pain, ii) the validation of the models for both primary and secondary screening assays, and iii) the use of the models in target deconvolution processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Martínez
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Departamento de Farmacoloxía, Farmacia e Tecnoloxía Farmacéutica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - J Brea
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Departamento de Farmacoloxía, Farmacia e Tecnoloxía Farmacéutica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - D López
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - N Cosme
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - M Barro
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - X Monroy
- WeLab Barcelona, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Burgueño
- WeLab Barcelona, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Merlos
- WeLab Barcelona, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M I Loza
- BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular e Enfermidades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Instituto de Investigacións Sanitarias de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Departamento de Farmacoloxía, Farmacia e Tecnoloxía Farmacéutica, Facultade de Farmacia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Ma J, Eglauf J, Grad S, Alini M, Serra T. Engineering Sensory Ganglion Multicellular System to Model Tissue Nerve Ingrowth. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308478. [PMID: 38113315 PMCID: PMC10953573 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Discogenic pain is associated with deep nerve ingrowth in annulus fibrosus tissue (AF) of intervertebral disc (IVD). To model AF nerve ingrowth, primary bovine dorsal root ganglion (DRG) micro-scale tissue units are spatially organised around an AF explant by mild hydrodynamic forces within a collagen matrix. This results in a densely packed multicellular system mimicking the native DRG tissue morphology and a controlled AF-neuron distance. Such a multicellular organisation is essential to evolve populational-level cellular functions and in vivo-like morphologies. Pro-inflammatory cytokine-primed AF demonstrates its neurotrophic and neurotropic effects on nociceptor axons. Both effects are dependent on the AF-neuron distance underpinning the role of recapitulating inter-tissue/organ anatomical proximity when investigating their crosstalk. This is the first in vitro model studying AF nerve ingrowth by engineering mature and large animal tissues in a morphologically and physiologically relevant environment. The new approach can be used to biofabricate multi-tissue/organ models for untangling pathophysiological conditions and develop novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxuan Ma
- AO Research InstituteClavadelerstrasse 8Davos7270Switzerland
| | - Janick Eglauf
- AO Research InstituteClavadelerstrasse 8Davos7270Switzerland
- ETH ZürichRämistrasse 101Zürich8092Switzerland
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research InstituteClavadelerstrasse 8Davos7270Switzerland
| | - Mauro Alini
- AO Research InstituteClavadelerstrasse 8Davos7270Switzerland
| | - Tiziano Serra
- AO Research InstituteClavadelerstrasse 8Davos7270Switzerland
- Complex Tissue Regeneration DepartmentMERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative MedicineMaastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229ETNetherlands
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6
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Xu Z, Guo Y, Xiang K, Xiao D, Xiang M. Rapid and efficient generation of a transplantable population of functional retinal ganglion cells from fibroblasts. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13550. [PMID: 37740641 PMCID: PMC10849786 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13550] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma and other optic neuropathies lead to progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Cell replacement therapy is a potential promising treatment. However, current methods to obtain RGCs have inherent limitations, including time-consuming procedures, inefficient yields and complex protocols, which hinder their practical application. Here, we have developed a straightforward, rapid and efficient approach for directly inducing RGCs from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) using a combination of triple transcription factors (TFs): ASCL1, BRN3B and PAX6 (ABP). We showed that on the 6th day following ABP induction, neurons with molecular characteristics of RGCs were observed, and more than 60% of induced neurons became iRGCs (induced retinal ganglion cells) in the end. Transplanted iRGCs had the ability to survive and appropriately integrate into the RGC layer of mouse retinal explants and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-damaged retinas. Moreover, they exhibited electrophysiological properties typical of RGCs, and were able to regrow dendrites and axons and form synaptic connections with host retinal cells. Together, we have established a rapid and efficient approach to acquire functional RGCs for potential cell replacement therapy to treat glaucoma and other optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Yanan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Kangjian Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Dongchang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of OphthalmologyZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of MedicineSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
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7
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Lei Q, Xiang K, Cheng L, Xiang M. Human retinal organoids with an OPA1 mutation are defective in retinal ganglion cell differentiation and function. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:68-83. [PMID: 38101398 PMCID: PMC10828684 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.11.004] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA), mostly caused by heterozygous OPA1 mutations and characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and optic nerve degeneration, is one of the most common types of inherited optic neuropathies. Previous work using a two-dimensional (2D) differentiation model of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has investigated ADOA pathogenesis but failed to agree on the effect of OPA1 mutations on RGC differentiation. Here, we use 3D retinal organoids capable of mimicking in vivo retinal development to resolve the issue. We generated isogenic iPSCs carrying the hotspot OPA1 c.2708_2711delTTAG mutation and found that the mutant variant caused defective initial and terminal differentiation and abnormal electrophysiological properties of organoid-derived RGCs. Moreover, this variant inhibits progenitor proliferation and results in mitochondrial dysfunction. These data demonstrate that retinal organoids coupled with gene editing serve as a powerful tool to definitively identify disease-related phenotypes and provide valuable resources to further investigate ADOA pathogenesis and screen for ADOA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiannan Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Kangjian Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Lin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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8
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Zhang K, Cai W, Xin Y, He Q, Chen C, Zeng M, Chen S. Retinal Ganglion Cell Fate Induction by Ngn-Family Transcription Factors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:32. [PMID: 38133504 PMCID: PMC10746927 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.15.32] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are the projection neurons of the retina. Loss of RGCs is the cellular basis for vision loss in patients with glaucoma. Finding ways to regenerate RGCs will aid in the development of regenerative therapies for patients with glaucoma. The aim of this study was to examine the ability of Ngn-family transcription factors (TFs) to induce RGC regeneration through reprogramming in vitro and in vivo. Methods In vitro, lentiviruses were used to deliver Ngn-TFs into mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). In vivo, mouse pup retina electroporation was used to deliver Ngn-TFs into late-stage retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). Immunofluorescence staining and RNA sequencing were used to examine cell fate reprogramming; patch-clamp recording was used to examine neuronal electrophysiologic functions. Results In vitro, all three Ngn-TFs, Ngn1, Ngn2, and Ngn3, were able to work alone to reprogram MEFs into RGC-like neurons that resembled RGCs at the transcriptome level, exhibited typical neuronal membrane electrophysiologic properties, and formed functional synaptic communications with retinal neurons. In vivo, Ngn-TFs reprogrammed the differentiation-competent state of late-stage RPCs to generate RGCs. Conclusions Ngn-TFs are effective in inducing an RGC-like fate both in vitro and in vivo and might be explored further in the future for glaucoma translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanling Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinghai He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canbin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingbing Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Soucy JR, Aguzzi EA, Cho J, Gilhooley MJ, Keuthan C, Luo Z, Monavarfeshani A, Saleem MA, Wang XW, Wohlschlegel J, Baranov P, Di Polo A, Fortune B, Gokoffski KK, Goldberg JL, Guido W, Kolodkin AL, Mason CA, Ou Y, Reh TA, Ross AG, Samuels BC, Welsbie D, Zack DJ, Johnson TV. Retinal ganglion cell repopulation for vision restoration in optic neuropathy: a roadmap from the RReSTORe Consortium. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:64. [PMID: 37735444 PMCID: PMC10514988 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00655-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in glaucoma and other optic neuropathies results in irreversible vision loss due to the mammalian central nervous system's limited regenerative capacity. RGC repopulation is a promising therapeutic approach to reverse vision loss from optic neuropathies if the newly introduced neurons can reestablish functional retinal and thalamic circuits. In theory, RGCs might be repopulated through the transplantation of stem cell-derived neurons or via the induction of endogenous transdifferentiation. The RGC Repopulation, Stem Cell Transplantation, and Optic Nerve Regeneration (RReSTORe) Consortium was established to address the challenges associated with the therapeutic repair of the visual pathway in optic neuropathy. In 2022, the RReSTORe Consortium initiated ongoing international collaborative discussions to advance the RGC repopulation field and has identified five critical areas of focus: (1) RGC development and differentiation, (2) Transplantation methods and models, (3) RGC survival, maturation, and host interactions, (4) Inner retinal wiring, and (5) Eye-to-brain connectivity. Here, we discuss the most pertinent questions and challenges that exist on the path to clinical translation and suggest experimental directions to propel this work going forward. Using these five subtopic discussion groups (SDGs) as a framework, we suggest multidisciplinary approaches to restore the diseased visual pathway by leveraging groundbreaking insights from developmental neuroscience, stem cell biology, molecular biology, optical imaging, animal models of optic neuropathy, immunology & immunotolerance, neuropathology & neuroprotection, materials science & biomedical engineering, and regenerative neuroscience. While significant hurdles remain, the RReSTORe Consortium's efforts provide a comprehensive roadmap for advancing the RGC repopulation field and hold potential for transformative progress in restoring vision in patients suffering from optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Soucy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass. Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erika A Aguzzi
- The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, England, UK
| | - Julie Cho
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Michael James Gilhooley
- The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, England, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England, UK
| | - Casey Keuthan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ziming Luo
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Aboozar Monavarfeshani
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meher A Saleem
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Health System, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Xue-Wei Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Petr Baranov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass. Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Brad Fortune
- Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute and Legacy Research Institute, Legacy Health, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kimberly K Gokoffski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - William Guido
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alex L Kolodkin
- The Solomon H Snyder, Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carol A Mason
- Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Neuroscience, and Ophthalmology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yvonne Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas A Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ahmara G Ross
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian C Samuels
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Callahan Eye Hospital, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Derek Welsbie
- Shiley Eye Institute and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Donald J Zack
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21287 MD, USA
- Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology & Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology & Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Cellular & Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21287 MD, USA.
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10
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Subramani M, Van Hook MJ, Ahmad I. Reproducible generation of human retinal ganglion cells from banked retinal progenitor cells: analysis of target recognition and IGF-1-mediated axon regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1214104. [PMID: 37519299 PMCID: PMC10373790 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1214104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The selective degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is a common feature in glaucoma, a complex group of diseases, leading to irreversible vision loss. Stem cell-based glaucoma disease modeling, cell replacement, and axon regeneration are viable approaches to understand mechanisms underlying glaucomatous degeneration for neuroprotection, ex vivo stem cell therapy, and therapeutic regeneration. These approaches require direct and facile generation of human RGCs (hRGCs) from pluripotent stem cells. Here, we demonstrate a method for rapid generation of hRGCs from banked human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal progenitor cells (hRPCs) by recapitulating the developmental mechanism. The resulting hRGCs are stable, functional, and transplantable and have the potential for target recognition, demonstrating their suitability for both ex vivo stem cell approaches to glaucomatous degeneration and disease modeling. Additionally, we demonstrate that hRGCs derived from banked hRPCs are capable of regenerating their axons through an evolutionarily conserved mechanism involving insulin-like growth factor 1 and the mTOR axis, demonstrating their potential to identify and characterize the underlying mechanism(s) that can be targeted for therapeutic regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iqbal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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11
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Kang J, Gong J, Yang C, Lin X, Yan L, Gong Y, Xu H. Application of Human Stem Cell Derived Retinal Organoids in the Exploration of the Mechanisms of Early Retinal Development. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023:10.1007/s12015-023-10553-x. [PMID: 37269529 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The intricate neural circuit of retina extracts salient features of the natural world and forms bioelectric impulse as the origin of vision. The early development of retina is a highly complex and coordinated process in morphogenesis and neurogenesis. Increasing evidence indicates that stem cells derived human retinal organoids (hROs) in vitro faithfully recapitulates the embryonic developmental process of human retina no matter in the transcriptome, cellular biology and histomorphology. The emergence of hROs greatly deepens on the understanding of early development of human retina. Here, we reviewed the events of early retinal development both in animal embryos and hROs studies, which mainly comprises the formation of optic vesicle and optic cup shape, differentiation of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), photoreceptor cells (PRs) and its supportive retinal pigment epithelium cells (RPE). We also discussed the classic and frontier molecular pathways up to date to decipher the underlying mechanisms of early development of human retina and hROs. Finally, we summarized the application prospect, challenges and cutting-edge techniques of hROs for uncovering the principles and mechanisms of retinal development and related developmental disorder. hROs is a priori selection for studying human retinal development and function and may be a fundamental tool for unlocking the unknown insight into retinal development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Kang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jing Gong
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Cao Yang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xi Lin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Lijuan Yan
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yu Gong
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Sciences Research Center, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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12
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Rockel AF, Wagner N, Spenger P, Ergün S, Wörsdörfer P. Neuro-mesodermal assembloids recapitulate aspects of peripheral nervous system development in vitro. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:1155-1165. [PMID: 37084722 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we describe a novel neuro-mesodermal assembloid model that recapitulates aspects of peripheral nervous system (PNS) development such as neural crest cell (NCC) induction, migration, and sensory as well as sympathetic ganglion formation. The ganglia send projections to the mesodermal as well as neural compartment. Axons in the mesodermal part are associated with Schwann cells. In addition, peripheral ganglia and nerve fibers interact with a co-developing vascular plexus, forming a neurovascular niche. Finally, developing sensory ganglia show response to capsaicin indicating their functionality. The presented assembloid model could help to uncover mechanisms of human NCC induction, delamination, migration, and PNS development. Moreover, the model could be used for toxicity screenings or drug testing. The co-development of mesodermal and neuroectodermal tissues and a vascular plexus along with a PNS allows us to investigate the crosstalk between neuroectoderm and mesoderm and between peripheral neurons/neuroblasts and endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna F Rockel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Würzburg, Koellikerstraße 6, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Wagner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Würzburg, Koellikerstraße 6, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Spenger
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Würzburg, Koellikerstraße 6, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Würzburg, Koellikerstraße 6, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Wörsdörfer
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Würzburg, Koellikerstraße 6, 97070 Würzburg, Germany.
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13
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Cai H, Ao Z, Tian C, Wu Z, Kaurich C, Chen Z, Gu M, Hohmann AG, Mackie K, Guo F. Engineering human spinal microphysiological systems to model opioid-induced tolerance. Bioact Mater 2023; 22:482-490. [PMID: 36330161 PMCID: PMC9618681 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.10.007] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
pioids are commonly used for treating chronic pain. However, with continued use, they may induce tolerance and/or hyperalgesia, which limits therapeutic efficacy. The human mechanisms of opioid-induced tolerance and hyperalgesia are significantly understudied, in part, because current models cannot fully recapitulate human pathology. Here, we engineered novel human spinal microphysiological systems (MPSs) integrated with plug-and-play neural activity sensing for modeling human nociception and opioid-induced tolerance. Each spinal MPS consists of a flattened human spinal cord organoid derived from human stem cells and a 3D printed organoid holder device for plug-and-play neural activity measurement. We found that the flattened organoid design of MPSs not only reduces hypoxia and necrosis in the organoids, but also promotes their neuron maturation, neural activity, and functional development. We further demonstrated that prolonged opioid exposure resulted in neurochemical correlates of opioid tolerance and hyperalgesia, as measured by altered neural activity, and downregulation of μ-opioid receptor expression of human spinal MPSs. The MPSs are scalable, cost-effective, easy-to-use, and compatible with commonly-used well-plates, thus allowing plug-and-play measurements of neural activity. We believe the MPSs hold a promising translational potential for studying human pain etiology, screening new treatments, and validating novel therapeutics for human pain medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Cai
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Zheng Ao
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Chunhui Tian
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Zhuhao Wu
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Connor Kaurich
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Zi Chen
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Mingxia Gu
- Division of Pulmonary Biology, Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, United States
- University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, United States
| | - Andrea G. Hohmann
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
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14
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Liu S, Xiang K, Yuan F, Xiang M. Generation of self-organized autonomic ganglion organoids from fibroblasts. iScience 2023; 26:106241. [PMID: 36922996 PMCID: PMC10009094 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural organoids have been shown to serve as powerful tools for studying the mechanism of neural development and diseases as well as for screening drugs and developing cell-based therapeutics. Somatic cells have previously been reprogrammed into scattered autonomic ganglion (AG) neurons but not AG organoids. Here we have identified a combination of triple transcription factors (TFs) Ascl1, Phox2a/b, and Hand2 (APH) capable of efficiently reprogramming mouse fibroblasts into self-organized and networked induced AG (iAG) organoids, and characterized them by immunostaining, qRT-PCR, patch-clamping, and scRNA-seq approaches. The iAG neurons exhibit molecular properties, subtype diversity, and electrophysiological characteristics of autonomic neurons. Moreover, they can integrate into the superior cervical ganglia following transplantation and innervate and control the beating rate of co-cultured ventricular myocytes. Thus, iAG organoids may provide a valuable tool to study the pathogenesis of autonomic nervous system diseases and screen for drugs, as well as a source for cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Kangjian Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Fa Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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15
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A lncRNA-encoded mitochondrial micropeptide exacerbates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:126. [PMID: 36792584 PMCID: PMC9932084 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05617-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
As a common pathology of many ocular disorders such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, retinal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) triggers inflammation and microglia activation that lead to irreversible retinal damage. The detailed molecular mechanism underlying retinal IR injury, however, remains poorly understood at present. Here we report the bioinformatic identification of a lncRNA 1810058I24Rik (181-Rik) that was shown to encode a mitochondrion-located micropeptide Stmp1. Its deficiency in mice protected retinal ganglion cells from retinal IR injury by attenuating the activation of microglia and the Nlrp3 inflammasome pathway. Moreover, its genetic knockout in mice or knockdown in primary microglia promoted mitochondrial fusion, impaired mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, diminished aerobic glycolysis, and ameliorated inflammation. It appears that 181-Rik may trigger the Nlrp3 inflammasome activation by controlling mitochondrial functions through inhibiting expression of the metabolic sensor uncoupling protein 2 (Ucp2) and activating expression of the Ca2+ sensors S100a8/a9. Together, our findings shed new light on the molecular pathogenesis of retinal IR injury and may provide a fresh therapeutic target for IR-associated neurodegenerative diseases.
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16
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Huang KC, Gomes C, Meyer JS. Retinal Ganglion Cells in a Dish: Current Strategies and Recommended Best Practices for Effective In Vitro Modeling of Development and Disease. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2023; 281:83-102. [PMID: 36907969 PMCID: PMC10497719 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_642] [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: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
The ability to derive retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) provides an extraordinary opportunity to study the development of RGCs as well as cellular mechanisms underlying their degeneration in optic neuropathies. In the past several years, multiple approaches have been established that allow for the generation of RGCs from hPSCs, with these methods greatly improved in more recent studies to yield mature RGCs that more faithfully recapitulate phenotypes within the eye. Nevertheless, numerous differences still remain between hPSC-RGCs and those found within the human eye, with these differences likely explained at least in part due to the environment in which hPSC-RGCs are grown. With the ultimate goal of generating hPSC-RGCs that most closely resemble those within the retina for proper studies of retinal development, disease modeling, as well as cellular replacement, we review within this manuscript the current effective approaches for the differentiation of hPSC-RGCs, as well as how they have been applied for the investigation of RGC neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma. Furthermore, we provide our opinions on the characteristics of RGCs necessary for their use as effective in vitro disease models and importantly, how these current systems should be improved to more accurately reflect disease states. The establishment of characteristics in differentiated hPSC-RGCs that more effectively mimic RGCs within the retina will not only enable their use as effective models of RGC development, but will also create a better disease model for the identification of mechanisms underlying the neurodegeneration of RGCs in disease states such as glaucoma, further facilitating the development of therapeutic approaches to rescue RGCs from degeneration in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Chieh Huang
- Department of Biology, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Cátia Gomes
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jason S Meyer
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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17
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Chen H, Jin X, Li T, Ye Z. Brain organoids: Establishment and application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1029873. [PMID: 36506083 PMCID: PMC9726712 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1029873] [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: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids are produced by the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells under three-dimensional culture conditions by adding neurodevelopment-related regulatory signals. They are similar to the cell composition and anatomical structure of the brain, and can reflect the developmental process of the brain, as well as their physiology, pathology, and pharmacology. Brain organoids are good models to study human brain development and brain-related diseases in vitro. Here, we mainly focus on the construction of brain organoids and review the application of brain organoids in disease modelingand drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Second Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tie Li
- Department of Rheumatology, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhuang Ye
- Department of Rheumatology, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Zhuang Ye,
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18
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Labau JIR, Andelic M, Faber CG, Waxman SG, Lauria G, Dib-Hajj SD. Recent advances for using human induced-pluripotent stem cells as pain-in-a-dish models of neuropathic pain. Exp Neurol 2022; 358:114223. [PMID: 36100046 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is amongst the most common non-communicable disorders and the poor effectiveness of current treatment is an unmet need. Although pain is a universal experience, there are significant inter-individual phenotypic differences. Developing models that can accurately recapitulate the clinical pain features is crucial to better understand underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and find innovative treatments. Current data from heterologous expression systems that investigate properties of specific molecules involved in pain signaling, and from animal models, show limited success with their translation into the development of novel treatments for pain. This is in part because they do not recapitulate the native environment in which a particular molecule functions, and due to species-specific differences in the properties of several key molecules that are involved in pain signaling. The limited availability of post-mortem tissue, in particular dorsal root ganglia (DRG), has hampered research using human cells in pre-clinical studies. Human induced-pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have emerged as an exciting alternative platform to study patient-specific diseases. Sensory neurons that are derived from iPSCs (iPSC-SNs) have provided new avenues towards elucidating peripheral pathophysiological mechanisms, the potential for development of personalized treatments, and as a cell-based system for high-throughput screening for discovering novel analgesics. Nevertheless, reprogramming and differentiation protocols to obtain nociceptors have mostly yielded immature homogenous cell populations that do not recapitulate the heterogeneity of native sensory neurons. To close the gap between native human tissue and iPSCs, alternative strategies have been developed. We will review here recent developments in differentiating iPSC-SNs and their use in pre-clinical translational studies. Direct conversion of stem cells into the cells of interest has provided a more cost- and time-saving method to improve reproducibility and diversity of sensory cell types. Furthermore, multi-cellular strategies that mimic in vivo microenvironments for cell maturation, by improving cell contact and communication (co-cultures), reproducing the organ complexity and architecture (three-dimensional organoid), and providing iPSCs with the full spatiotemporal context and nutrients needed for acquiring a mature phenotype (xenotransplantation), have led to functional sensory neuron-like systems. Finally, this review touches on novel prospective strategies, including fluorescent-tracking to select the differentiated neurons of relevance, and dynamic clamp, an electrophysiological method that allows direct manipulation of ionic conductances that are missing in iPSC-SNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie I R Labau
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Toxicogenomics, Clinical Genomics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mirna Andelic
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy
| | - Catharina G Faber
- School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico "Carlo Besta", Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Italy.
| | - Sulayman D Dib-Hajj
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroscience & Regeneration Research, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA.
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19
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Xiao D, Jin K, Qiu S, Lei Q, Huang W, Chen H, Su J, Xu Q, Xu Z, Gou B, Tie X, Liu F, Liu S, Liu Y, Xiang M. In vivo Regeneration of Ganglion Cells for Vision Restoration in Mammalian Retinas. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:755544. [PMID: 34671605 PMCID: PMC8520940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.755544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma and other optic neuropathies affect millions of people worldwide, ultimately causing progressive and irreversible degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and blindness. Previous research into cell replacement therapy of these neurodegenerative diseases has been stalled due to the incapability for grafted RGCs to integrate into the retina and project properly along the long visual pathway. In vivo RGC regeneration would be a promising alternative approach but mammalian retinas lack regenerative capacity. It therefore has long been a great challenge to regenerate functional and properly projecting RGCs for vision restoration in mammals. Here we show that the transcription factors (TFs) Math5 and Brn3b together are able to reprogram mature mouse Müller glia (MG) into RGCs. The reprogrammed RGCs extend long axons that make appropriate intra-retinal and extra-retinal projections through the entire visual pathway to innervate both image-forming and non-image-forming brain targets. They exhibit typical neuronal electrophysiological properties and improve visual responses in RGC loss mouse models. Together, our data provide evidence that mammalian MG can be reprogrammed by defined TFs to achieve in vivo regeneration of functional RGCs as well as a promising new therapeutic approach to restore vision to patients with glaucoma and other optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongchang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangxin Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suo Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiannan Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanjing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiqiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zihui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiu Tie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Roth JG, Huang MS, Li TL, Feig VR, Jiang Y, Cui B, Greely HT, Bao Z, Paşca SP, Heilshorn SC. Advancing models of neural development with biomaterials. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:593-615. [PMID: 34376834 PMCID: PMC8612873 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00496-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells have emerged as a promising in vitro model system for studying the brain. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional cell culture paradigms have provided valuable insights into the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders, but they remain limited in their capacity to model certain features of human neural development. Specifically, current models do not efficiently incorporate extracellular matrix-derived biochemical and biophysical cues, facilitate multicellular spatio-temporal patterning, or achieve advanced functional maturation. Engineered biomaterials have the capacity to create increasingly biomimetic neural microenvironments, yet further refinement is needed before these approaches are widely implemented. This Review therefore highlights how continued progression and increased integration of engineered biomaterials may be well poised to address intractable challenges in recapitulating human neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien G Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Thomas L Li
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vivian R Feig
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuanwen Jiang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bianxiao Cui
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Henry T Greely
- Stanford Law School, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zhenan Bao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sergiu P Paşca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Retinal Organoid Technology: Where Are We Now? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910244. [PMID: 34638582 PMCID: PMC8549701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is difficult to regenerate mammalian retinal cells once the adult retina is damaged, and current clinical approaches to retinal damages are very limited. The introduction of the retinal organoid technique empowers researchers to study the molecular mechanisms controlling retinal development, explore the pathogenesis of retinal diseases, develop novel treatment options, and pursue cell/tissue transplantation under a certain genetic background. Here, we revisit the historical background of retinal organoid technology, categorize current methods of organoid induction, and outline the obstacles and potential solutions to next-generation retinal organoids. Meanwhile, we recapitulate recent research progress in cell/tissue transplantation to treat retinal diseases, and discuss the pros and cons of transplanting single-cell suspension versus retinal organoid sheet for cell therapies.
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Retinal Ganglion Cell Transplantation: Approaches for Overcoming Challenges to Functional Integration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061426. [PMID: 34200991 PMCID: PMC8228580 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the central nervous system, mammalian retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) lack significant regenerative capacity. Glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging RGCs and their axons, which compose the optic nerve. To functionally restore vision, lost RGCs must be replaced. Despite tremendous advancements in experimental models of optic neuropathy that have elucidated pathways to induce endogenous RGC neuroprotection and axon regeneration, obstacles to achieving functional visual recovery through exogenous RGC transplantation remain. Key challenges include poor graft survival, low donor neuron localization to the host retina, and inadequate dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis with afferent amacrine and bipolar cells. In this review, we summarize the current state of experimental RGC transplantation, and we propose a set of standard approaches to quantifying and reporting experimental outcomes in order to guide a collective effort to advance the field toward functional RGC replacement and optic nerve regeneration.
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Advances in Regeneration of Retinal Ganglion Cells and Optic Nerves. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094616. [PMID: 33924833 PMCID: PMC8125313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder due to the dysfunction of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). RGCs function as the only output neurons conveying the detected light information from the retina to the brain, which is a bottleneck of vision formation. RGCs in mammals cannot regenerate if injured, and RGC subtypes differ dramatically in their ability to survive and regenerate after injury. Recently, novel RGC subtypes and markers have been uncovered in succession. Meanwhile, apart from great advances in RGC axon regeneration, some degree of experimental RGC regeneration has been achieved by the in vitro differentiation of embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells or in vivo somatic cell reprogramming, which provides insights into the future therapy of myriad neurodegenerative disorders. Further approaches to the combination of different factors will be necessary to develop efficacious future therapeutic strategies to promote ultimate axon and RGC regeneration and functional vision recovery following injury.
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Li Y, Tang P, Cai S, Peng J, Hua G. Organoid based personalized medicine: from bench to bedside. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 9:21. [PMID: 33135109 PMCID: PMC7603915 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-020-00059-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional cultured organoids have become a powerful in vitro research tool that preserves genetic, phenotypic and behavioral trait of in vivo organs, which can be established from both pluripotent stem cells and adult stem cells. Organoids derived from adult stem cells can be established directly from diseased epithelium and matched normal tissues, and organoids can also be genetically manipulated by CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Applications of organoids in basic research involve the modeling of human development and diseases, including genetic, infectious and malignant diseases. Importantly, accumulating evidence suggests that biobanks of patient-derived organoids for many cancers and cystic fibrosis have great value for drug development and personalized medicine. In addition, organoids hold promise for regenerative medicine. In the present review, we discuss the applications of organoids in the basic and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Peiyuan Tang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sanjun Cai
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Junjie Peng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guoqiang Hua
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China. .,Cancer institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 230032, China.
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Panoutsopoulos AA. Organoids, Assembloids, and Novel Biotechnology: Steps Forward in Developmental and Disease-Related Neuroscience. Neuroscientist 2020; 27:463-472. [PMID: 32981451 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420960112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In neuroscience research, the efforts to find the model through which we can mimic the in vivo microenvironment of a developing or defective brain have been everlasting. While model organisms are used for over a hundred years, many more methods have been introduced with immortalized or primary cell lines and later induced pluripotent stem cells and organoids to be some of these. As the use of organoids becomes more and more common by many laboratories in biology and neuroscience in particular, it is crucial to deeper understand the challenges and possible pitfalls of their application in research, many of which can be surpassed with the support of state-of-the art bioengineering solutions. In this review, after a brief chronicle of the path to the discovery of organoids, we focus on the latest approaches to study neuroscience related topics with organoids, such as the use of assembloids, CRISPR technology, patch-clamp and optogenetics techniques and discuss how modern 3-dimensional biomaterials, miniaturized bioreactors and microfluidic chips can help to overcome the disadvantages of their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios A Panoutsopoulos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children-Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Bird A. Role of retinal pigment epithelium in age-related macular disease: a systematic review. Br J Ophthalmol 2020; 105:1469-1474. [PMID: 32950958 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-317447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular disease (AMD) is a major cause of blindness and there is little treatment currently available by which the progress of the basic disorder can be modulated. Histological and clinical studies show that the major tissues involved are the outer retina, retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch's membrane and choroid. Because of a wide variation of phenotype from one case to another, it has been suggested that accurate phenotyping would be necessary for assessment of the effectiveness of treatment that is tissue-directed. However, based on findings from the study of human donor material and animal models of disease and of cell culture, it is concluded that retinal pigment epithelial dysfunction plays a central role in the disease process in most, if not all, cases of early AMD. The metabolism of phagosomal material, particularly lipids, and energy generation are interdependent, and dysfunction of both appears to be important in the genesis of disease. Evidence exists to suggest that both can be modulated therapeutically. These metabolic functions are amenable to further investigation in both the normal state and in disease. Once fully characterised, it is likely that treatment could be directed towards a limited number of functions in single tissue, thus simplifying treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Bird
- Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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