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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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de Sousa AA, Rigby Dames BA, Graff EC, Mohamedelhassan R, Vassilopoulos T, Charvet CJ. Going beyond established model systems of Alzheimer's disease: companion animals provide novel insights into the neurobiology of aging. Commun Biol 2023; 6:655. [PMID: 37344566 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05034-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by brain plaques, tangles, and cognitive impairment. AD is one of the most common age-related dementias in humans. Progress in characterizing AD and other age-related disorders is hindered by a perceived dearth of animal models that naturally reproduce diseases observed in humans. Mice and nonhuman primates are model systems used to understand human diseases. Still, these model systems lack many of the biological characteristics of Alzheimer-like diseases (e.g., plaques, tangles) as they grow older. In contrast, companion animal models (cats and dogs) age in ways that resemble humans. Both companion animal models and humans show evidence of brain atrophy, plaques, and tangles, as well as cognitive decline with age. We embrace a One Health perspective, which recognizes that the health of humans is connected to those of animals, and we illustrate how such a perspective can work synergistically to enhance human and animal health. A comparative biology perspective is ideally suited to integrate insights across veterinary and human medical disciplines and solve long-standing problems in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A de Sousa
- Centre for Health and Cognition, Bath Spa University, Bath, UK
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Brier A Rigby Dames
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Emily C Graff
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Rania Mohamedelhassan
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Tatianna Vassilopoulos
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Christine J Charvet
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
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de Andrade Ramos L, Seullner Brandão CV, Arce CG, Micheline L, Gordon Gandolfi M, Padovani C. Simulated keratometry and central corneal thickness measured in cats by autokeratometer, ultrasonic pachymeter, and Galilei G6™. Vet Ophthalmol 2022; 26:128-134. [PMID: 36383444 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to compare the central corneal thickness (CCT) measured by an ultrasonic pachymeter (SP-100, Tomey, Japão) versus the Galilei G6™ (Ziemer Ophthalmics System AG, Port, Switzerland) and to compare the simulated keratometry (SimK) measured by an autokeratometer (KM 500 Nidek) versus the Galilei G6™. ANIMAL STUDIED Eighteen mixed-breed cats, 10 males, and eight females, aged between 18 and 48 months, were evaluated (n = 36 eyes). PROCEDURE(S) The cats were manually restrained using a blanket. The operator held the autokeratometer close to the eye and measured the SimK. Next, one anesthetic eye drop was applied; the operator lightly touched the corneal using the ultrasound pachymeter and measured the CCT. At another moment, the cats were sedated using meperidine and xylazine and then evaluated using the Galilei. Student's t-test was employed to perform the statistical analyzes. RESULTS Considering the CCT, the ultrasound pachymeter provided mean ± SD of 623.03 ± 48.17 μm and the Galilei 617.34 ± 53.38 μm. The autokeratometer produced a SimK of 38.20 ± 0.84D (8.84 ± 0.20 mm) and the Galilei 38.37 ± 0.83D (8.80 ± 0.19 mm). The CCT and SimK did not differ statistically regardless of the device used. CONCLUSION To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first work to compare the CCT measured by the Galilei versus the ultrasonic pachymeter and to compare the SimK measured by the Galilei versus the keratometer in cats. No statistical difference was found considering the CCT and the SimK measured by the different devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia de Andrade Ramos
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science São Paulo State University ‐ UNESP São Paulo Brazil
| | - Cláudia Valéria Seullner Brandão
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science São Paulo State University ‐ UNESP São Paulo Brazil
| | - Carlos Guillermo Arce
- Contact Lens, Cornea, Refractive Surgery, Research & Technology Sectors Ophthalmologic Hospital and Eye Bank of Sorocaba São Paulo Brazil
| | - Laura Micheline
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science São Paulo State University ‐ UNESP São Paulo Brazil
| | - Micaella Gordon Gandolfi
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science São Paulo State University ‐ UNESP São Paulo Brazil
| | - Carlos Roberto Padovani
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioscience Institute São Paulo State University ‐ UNESP São Paulo Brazil
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Animal Model Contributions to Primary Congenital Glaucoma. J Ophthalmol 2022; 2022:6955461. [PMID: 35663518 PMCID: PMC9162845 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6955461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) is an ocular disease characterized by congenital anterior segmental maldevelopment with progressive optic nerve degeneration. Certain genes, such as cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily B member 1 and latent TGF-β-binding protein 2, are involved in the pathogenesis of PCG, but the exact pathogenic mechanism has not yet been fully elucidated. There is an urgent need to determine the etiology and pathophysiology of PCG and develop new therapeutic methods to stop disease progression. Animal models can simulate PCG and are essential to study the pathogenesis and treatment of PCG. Various animal species have been used in the study of PCG, including rabbits, rats, mice, cats, zebrafish, and quails. These models are formed spontaneously or by combining with genetic engineering technology. The focus of the present study is to review the characteristics and potential applications of animal models in PCG and provide new approaches to understand the mechanism and develop new treatment strategies for patients with PCG.
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de Andrade Ramos L, Seullner Brandão CV, Guillermo Arce C, Haddad Pinho R, Garbelotti Gonçalves L, Padovani CR. Dual-Scheimpflug-Placido-disc corneal analysis in cats. Vet Ophthalmol 2022; 25:360-366. [PMID: 35544443 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the corneal topography and tomography of cats using a dual Scheimpflug and Placido disc device. ANIMAL STUDIED Sixteen mixed-breed cats (32 eyes). PROCEDURE(S) Cats were sedated using meperidine (4.3 mg/kg/IM) and xylazine (0.5 mg/kg/IM), and evaluated using the software Galilei™. Values assessed included anterior and posterior corneal curvature, total corneal power, and corneal thickness. RESULTS Ten males and six females aged between 18 and 48 months were evaluated. The simulated keratometry (SimK) was 38.37 ± 0.83D, mean posterior keratometry -4.89 ± 0.34D, and mean total corneal power 38.04 ± 0.94D. The mean central corneal thickness (CCT) was 617.34 ± 53.38 μm with a mean thinnest point of 583.74 ± 60.60 μm. CONCLUSION The Galilei™ examination was feasible in cats, enabling a detailed study of the cornea. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the corneal topography and tomography of cats using a device that integrates data from a dual Scheimpflug and Placido disc system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia de Andrade Ramos
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction. School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Valéria Seullner Brandão
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction. School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Guillermo Arce
- Contact Lens, Cornea, Refractive Surgery, Research & Technology Sectors, Ophthalmologic Hospital and Eye Bank of Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renata Haddad Pinho
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction. School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lenise Garbelotti Gonçalves
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction. School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Roberto Padovani
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioscience Institute, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Saraiva IQ, Delgado E. Congenital ocular malformations in dogs and cats: 123 cases. Vet Ophthalmol 2020; 23:964-978. [PMID: 33058381 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Provide epidemiological data regarding the prevalence of congenital ocular malformations in dogs and cats. ANIMALS STUDIED A population of 32 974 dogs and 13 977 cats that presented for consultation at the veterinary teaching hospital. PROCEDURES Medical records from 2011 to 2018 were reviewed. A retrospective and prospective epidemiological clinical study addressing congenital ocular malformations was conducted. Signalment, medical history, reason for presentation, clinical findings, vision impairment, and treatment options were analyzed. RESULTS From the total of cases analyzed, 103 dogs (0.3%) and 20 cats (0.1%) met the inclusion criteria. The majority of dogs were mixed breed, the most common breed being the French Bulldog, while the majority of cats were European domestic shorthair. The median age of diagnosis was 12 months for dogs and 6 months for cats. Sex predisposition was not found. The most frequently identified abnormalities were as follows: congenital cataract (dogs: 31.1%; cats: 30.0%), microphthalmia (dogs: 35.0%, cats: 25.0%), and persistent pupillary membrane (dogs: 27.2%, cats: 40.0%). Some of the concurrently observed malformations were significantly associated. A statistically significant association was found between ocular dermoids and the French Bulldog breed (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Even though congenital ocular malformations are uncommon, knowledge about their prevalence is important, since they can cause vision impairment or even blindness. Moreover, some human ocular disease phenotypes are similar to the ones presented by dogs and cats, so they can be used as models to investigate pathophysiology and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Q Saraiva
- CIISA - Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Esmeralda Delgado
- CIISA - Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Thongkittidilok C, Singh RP, Comizzoli P, Wildt D, Songsasen N. Insulin promotes preantral follicle growth and antrum formation through temporal expression of genes regulating steroidogenesis and water transport in the cat. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:1369-1379. [PMID: 29720337 DOI: 10.1071/rd17454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the present study were to determine the effects of insulin, invitro, on: (1) the viability and growth of domestic cat ovarian follicles; (2) mRNA expression of genes regulating steroidogenesis (cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily, A polypeptide 1 (Cyp17a1), cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily, A polypeptide 1 (Cyp19a1) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star)) and water transport (aquaporins (AQPs) Aqp1, Aqp3, Aqp7, Aqp9); and (3) steroid production (17β-oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), androstenedione (A4)). Cat secondary follicles were isolated from ovarian cortices and cultured in 0 (Control), 1 or 10µgmL-1 insulin for 14 days (Day 0=culture onset). Follicle and oocyte viability (based on neutral red staining), diameter and antrum formation were assessed every 72h and at the end of incubation (Day 14). Expression of steroidogenic and water transport genes was evaluated on Days 0, 6 and 12, and E2, P4 and A4 concentrations in the culture medium were determined on Day 12. By Day 14, 1 and 10µgmL-1 insulin had significantly promoted (P<0.05) both antrum formation in a mean (±s.e.m.) 26.9±9.0% and 78.0±10.0% of follicles respectively, and follicle growth (diameter 151.4±4.5 and 169.9±10.5µm respectively) compared with Control (antrum formation in 3.3±3.3% of follicles and follicle diameter 129.1±6.6µm). High insulin (10µgmL-1) treatment increased follicle viability compared with Control (86.0±9.8% vs 38.1±10.9% respectively; P<0.05). However, insulin had no beneficial effect (P>0.05) on oocyte diameter. Cyp17a1 expression on Days 6 and 12 was higher (P<0.05) in follicles cultured in the low (1µgmL-1) compared with high (10µgmL-1) insulin treatment, with no significant difference between low or high insulin vs Control groups. Star expression was higher (P<0.01) in the low insulin compared with Control group on Day 6, but Star was undetectable in the high insulin group by Day 12. Compared with high insulin, low insulin increased (P<0.05) Aqp1 expression on Day 6, but there were no significant differences between these two groups on Day 12. In contrast, high insulin decreased (P<0.05) Aqp9 transcript levels compared with Control. Only P4 production was affected by insulin, with P4 concentrations in the medium being higher (P<0.05) in the low compared with high insulin and Control groups. In summary, the findings indicate that insulin promotes cat ovarian follicle growth and survival invitro, including enhanced antrum formation, with the likely mechanism involving temporal expression of Cyp17a1, Star and Aqp9 genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chommanart Thongkittidilok
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Ram Pratap Singh
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - David Wildt
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
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Bourguet A, Chaudieu G, Briatta A, Guyonnet A, Abitbol M, Chahory S. Cataracts in a population of Bengal cats in France. Vet Ophthalmol 2017; 21:10-18. [PMID: 28444876 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To document the clinical appearance and prevalence of cataracts in a French population of Bengal cats. METHODS Two distinct populations of Bengal cats were examined as follows: (i) 51 animals recruited for evaluation of national prevalence of ocular diseases in an observational study conducted between October 2014 and November 2016 at the Alfort ophthalmology unit; (ii) 12 patients referred for cataract diagnosis examined at a veterinary eye clinic located in central France, between December 2014 and February 2016. Buccal swabs or blood samples for DNA analysis were collected from all patients. The pedigrees of the examined Bengal cats were also investigated. RESULTS Cataracts were diagnosed in 23 of 51 (45%) cats in the observational study and in all cats in the referral population, mostly bilaterally. Visual impairment was never reported. Age of subjects affected by cataracts ranged from 3 months to 9.6 years (median: 1.9 years). Cataracts were classified as nuclear cataracts (14 of 23 in the observational group and 12 of 12 in the referral group) with a focal, perinuclear, posterior, or complete nuclear pattern, or posterior polar subcapsular cataracts (10 of 23 only in the observational group). An inherited congenital origin appears to be the most likely hypothesis. The pedigree analysis suggests a hereditary component of cataract formation, but further analyses in a larger population or test matings are needed to determine the exact mode of inheritance. CONCLUSION Presumed inherited cataracts appear to have a high prevalence in Bengal cats in France. The main manifestations are nuclear or subcapsular form, mostly bilateral, symmetrical, and apparently nonprogressive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Bourguet
- Ophthalmology Unit, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94700, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Gilles Chaudieu
- Clinique Vétérinaire, 52 boulevard M. Pourchon, Clermont-Ferrand, 63100, France
| | - Alice Briatta
- Ophthalmology Unit, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94700, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Alexandre Guyonnet
- Ophthalmology Unit, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94700, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Marie Abitbol
- INSERM U955-E10, IMRB, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
| | - Sabine Chahory
- Ophthalmology Unit, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Université Paris-Est, 7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 94700, Maisons-Alfort Cedex, France
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Stowell C, Burgoyne CF, Tamm ER, Ethier CR. Biomechanical aspects of axonal damage in glaucoma: A brief review. Exp Eye Res 2017; 157:13-19. [PMID: 28223180 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The biomechanical environment within the optic nerve head (ONH) is complex and is likely directly involved in the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma. Unfortunately, our understanding of this process is poor. Here we describe factors that influence ONH biomechanics, including ONH connective tissue microarchitecture and anatomy; intraocular pressure (IOP); and cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFp). We note that connective tissue factors can vary significantly from one individual to the next, as well as regionally within an eye, and that the understanding of ONH biomechanics is hindered by anatomical differences between small-animal models of glaucoma (rats and mice) and humans. Other challenges of using animal models of glaucoma to study the role of biomechanics include the complexity of assessing the degree of glaucomatous progression; and inadequate tools for monitoring and consistently elevating IOP in animal models. We conclude with a consideration of important open research questions/challenges in this area, including: (i) Creating a systems biology description of the ONH; (ii) addressing the role of astrocyte connective tissue remodeling and reactivity in glaucoma; (iii) providing a better characterization of ONH astrocytes and non-astrocytic constituent cells; (iv) better understanding the role of ONH astrocyte phagocytosis, proliferation and death; (v) collecting gene expression and phenotype data on a larger, more coordinated scale; and (vi) developing an implantable IOP sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheri Stowell
- Optic Nerve Head Research Laboratory, Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute, Legacy Health System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Claude F Burgoyne
- Optic Nerve Head Research Laboratory, Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute, Legacy Health System, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - C Ross Ethier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Becker S, Eastlake K, Jayaram H, Jones MF, Brown RA, McLellan GJ, Charteris DG, Khaw PT, Limb GA. Allogeneic Transplantation of Müller-Derived Retinal Ganglion Cells Improves Retinal Function in a Feline Model of Ganglion Cell Depletion. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 5:192-205. [PMID: 26718648 PMCID: PMC4729554 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Müller glia with stem cell characteristics (hMGSCs) have been shown to improve retinal function upon transplantation into rat models of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) depletion. However, their translational potential may depend upon successful engraftment and improvement of retinal function in experimental models with anatomical and functional features resembling those of the human eye. We investigated the effect of allogeneic transplantation of feline Müller glia with the ability to differentiate into cells expressing RGC markers, following ablation of RGCs by N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA). Unlike previous observations in the rat, transplantation of hMGSC-derived RGCs into the feline vitreous formed aggregates and elicited a severe inflammatory response without improving visual function. In contrast, allogeneic transplantation of feline MGSC (fMGSC)-derived RGCs into the vitrectomized eye improved the scotopic threshold response (STR) of the electroretinogram (ERG). Despite causing functional improvement, the cells did not attach onto the retina and formed aggregates on peripheral vitreous remnants, suggesting that vitreous may constitute a barrier for cell attachment onto the retina. This was confirmed by observations that cellular scaffolds of compressed collagen and enriched preparations of fMGSC-derived RGCs facilitated cell attachment. Although cells did not migrate into the RGC layer or the optic nerve, they significantly improved the STR and the photopic negative response of the ERG, indicative of increased RGC function. These results suggest that MGSCs have a neuroprotective ability that promotes partial recovery of impaired RGC function and indicate that cell attachment onto the retina may be necessary for transplanted cells to confer neuroprotection to the retina. Significance: Müller glia with stem cell characteristics are present in the adult human retina, but they do not have regenerative ability. These cells, however, have potential for development of cell therapies to treat retinal disease. Using a feline model of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) depletion, cell grafting methods to improve RGC function have been developed. Using cellular scaffolds, allogeneic transplantation of Müller glia-derived RGC promoted cell attachment onto the retina and enhanced retinal function, as judged by improvement of the photopic negative and scotopic threshold responses of the electroretinogram. The results suggest that the improvement of RGC function observed may be ascribed to the neuroprotective ability of these cells and indicate that attachment of the transplanted cells onto the retina is required to promote effective neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Becker
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Eastlake
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hari Jayaram
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Megan F Jones
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert A Brown
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gillian J McLellan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David G Charteris
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peng T Khaw
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - G Astrid Limb
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Ofri R, Reilly CM, Maggs DJ, Fitzgerald PG, Shilo-Benjamini Y, Good KL, Grahn RA, Splawski DD, Lyons LA. Characterization of an Early-Onset, Autosomal Recessive, Progressive Retinal Degeneration in Bengal Cats. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015; 56:5299-308. [PMID: 26258614 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-16585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A form of retinal degeneration suspected to be hereditary was discovered in a family of Bengal cats. A breeding colony was established to characterize disease progression clinically, electrophysiologically, and morphologically, and to investigate the mode of inheritance. METHODS Affected and related cats were donated by owners for breeding trials and pedigree analysis. Kittens from test and complementation breedings underwent ophthalmic and neuro-ophthalmic examinations and ERG, and globes were evaluated using light microscopy. RESULTS Pedigree analysis, along with test and complementation breedings, indicated autosomal recessive inheritance and suggested that this disease is nonallelic to a retinal degeneration found in Persian cats. Mutation analysis confirmed the disease is not caused by CEP290 or CRX variants found predominantly in Abyssinian and Siamese cats. Ophthalmoscopic signs of retinal degeneration were noted at 9 weeks of age and became more noticeable over the next 4 months. Visual deficits were behaviorally evident by 1 year of age. Electroretinogram demonstrated reduced rod and cone function at 7 and 9 weeks of age, respectively. Rod responses were mostly extinguished at 14 weeks of age; cone responses were minimal by 26 weeks. Histologic degeneration was first observed at 8 weeks, evidenced by reduced photoreceptor numbers, then rapid deterioration of the photoreceptor layer and, subsequently, severe outer retinal degeneration. CONCLUSIONS A recessively inherited primary photoreceptor degeneration was characterized in the Bengal cat. The disease is characterized by early onset, with histologic, ophthalmoscopic, and electrophysiological signs evident by 2 months of age, and rapid progression to blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Ofri
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Christopher M Reilly
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - David J Maggs
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Paul G Fitzgerald
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Yael Shilo-Benjamini
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel 3Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Kathryn L Good
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Robert A Grahn
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Danielle D Splawski
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Leslie A Lyons
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, United States 6Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri-Columb
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12
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Cannon CM. Cats, Cancer and Comparative Oncology. Vet Sci 2015; 2:111-126. [PMID: 29061935 PMCID: PMC5644631 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci2030111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Naturally occurring tumors in dogs are well-established models for several human cancers. Domestic cats share many of the benefits of dogs as a model (spontaneous cancers developing in an immunocompetent animal sharing the same environment as humans, shorter lifespan allowing more rapid trial completion and data collection, lack of standard of care for many cancers allowing evaluation of therapies in treatment-naïve populations), but have not been utilized to the same degree in the One Medicine approach to cancer. There are both challenges and opportunities in feline compared to canine models. This review will discuss three specific tumor types where cats may offer insights into human cancers. Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma is common, shares both clinical and molecular features with human head and neck cancer and is an attractive model for evaluating new therapies. Feline mammary tumors are usually malignant and aggressive, with the ‘triple-negative’ phenotype being more common than in humans, offering an enriched population in which to examine potential targets and treatments. Finally, although there is not an exact corollary in humans, feline injection site sarcoma may be a model for inflammation-driven tumorigenesis, offering opportunities for studying variations in individual susceptibility as well as preventative and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M Cannon
- University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, 2407 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
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13
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Alhaddad H, Gandolfi B, Grahn RA, Rah HC, Peterson CB, Maggs DJ, Good KL, Pedersen NC, Lyons LA. Genome-wide association and linkage analyses localize a progressive retinal atrophy locus in Persian cats. Mamm Genome 2014; 25:354-62. [PMID: 24777202 PMCID: PMC4105591 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-014-9517-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary eye diseases of animals serve as excellent models of human ocular disorders and assist in the development of gene and drug therapies for inherited forms of blindness. Several primary hereditary eye conditions affecting various ocular tissues and having different rates of progression have been documented in domestic cats. Gene therapy for canine retinopathies has been successful, thus the cat could be a gene therapy candidate for other forms of retinal degenerations. The current study investigates a hereditary, autosomal recessive, retinal degeneration specific to Persian cats. A multi-generational pedigree segregating for this progressive retinal atrophy was genotyped using a 63 K SNP array and analyzed via genome-wide linkage and association methods. A multi-point parametric linkage analysis localized the blindness phenotype to a ~1.75 Mb region with significant LOD scores (Z ≈ 14, θ = 0.00) on cat chromosome E1. Genome-wide TDT, sib-TDT, and case-control analyses also consistently supported significant association within the same region on chromosome E1, which is homologous to human chromosome 17. Using haplotype analysis, a ~1.3 Mb region was identified as highly associated for progressive retinal atrophy in Persian cats. Several candidate genes within the region are reasonable candidates as a potential causative gene and should be considered for molecular analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Alhaddad
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- College of Science, Kuwait University, 13060 Safat, Kuwait
| | - Barbara Gandolfi
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia, E109 Vet Med Building, 1600 E. Rollins St., Columbia, MO 65211 USA
| | - Robert A. Grahn
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Hyung-Chul Rah
- College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Chongju, Chungbuk Province South Korea
| | - Carlyn B. Peterson
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - David J. Maggs
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kathryn L. Good
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Niels C. Pedersen
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Leslie A. Lyons
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia, E109 Vet Med Building, 1600 E. Rollins St., Columbia, MO 65211 USA
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