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Shimokawa T, Fukuta T, Inagi T, Kogure K. Protective effect of high-affinity liposomes encapsulating astaxanthin against corneal disorder in the in vivo rat dry eye disease model. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2020; 66:224-232. [PMID: 32523249 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.19-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress induced by decreases in tear volume and excessive tear evaporation is a key factor in dry eye disease (DED). Previously, we reported that desiccation stress induces reactive oxygen species generation and up-regulated expression of age-related markers such as p53, p21 and p16. We also showed that the antioxidant astaxanthin prepared as a liposomal formulation could suppress these phenomena in the in vitro DED model. In this study, we evaluated the protective effect of liposomes encapsulating astaxanthin against superficial punctate keratopathy (SPK) in the in vivo rat DED model. This model of DED was characterized by decreased tear volume and increased fluorescein score as an indicator of SPK as well as upregulated expression of age-related markers. Repeat-dose of liposomal astaxanthin prevented increases in the fluorescein score and up-regulation of age-related markers. Liposomes bearing a slight positive surface charge had superior effects and higher affinity compared to neutral liposomes. Furthermore, fluorescence intensities in rat corneal epithelium after administration of high-affinity liposomes labeled with fluorescent dye were higher than those for neutral liposomes. In conclusion, we developed the high-affinity liposomal formulation that can prevent DED and promote antioxidative effects of astaxanthin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuharu Shimokawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan.,Fuji Research Laboratories Pharmaceutical Division, Kowa Company, Ltd., 332-1, Ohnoshinden, Shizuoka 417-8650, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Fukuta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Toshio Inagi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Kentaro Kogure
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 1 Shomachi, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
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Seow WY, Kandasamy K, Peh GSL, Mehta JS, Sun W. Ultrathin, Strong, and Cell-Adhesive Agarose-Based Membranes Engineered as Substrates for Corneal Endothelial Cells. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 5:4067-4076. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b00610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang Seow
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, #07-01, Singapore 138669
| | - Karthikeyan Kandasamy
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, #07-01, Singapore 138669
| | - Gary S. L. Peh
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir S. Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - William Sun
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, #07-01, Singapore 138669
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van Essen TH, Roelen DL, Williams KA, Jager MJ. Matching for Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) in corneal transplantation - to do or not to do. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 46:84-110. [PMID: 25601193 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2014] [Revised: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As many patients with severe corneal disease are not even considered as candidates for a human graft due to their high risk of rejection, it is essential to find ways to reduce the chance of rejection. One of the options is proper matching of the cornea donor and recipient for the Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA), a subject of much debate. Currently, patients receiving their first corneal allograft are hardly ever matched for HLA and even patients undergoing a regraft usually do not receive an HLA-matched graft. While anterior and posterior lamellar grafts are not immune to rejection, they are usually performed in low risk, non-vascularized cases. These are the cases in which the immune privilege due to the avascular status and active immune inhibition is still intact. Once broken due to infection, sensitization or trauma, rejection will occur. There is enough data to show that when proper DNA-based typing techniques are being used, even low risk perforating corneal transplantations benefit from matching for HLA Class I, and high risk cases from HLA Class I and probably Class II matching. Combining HLA class I and class II matching, or using the HLAMatchmaker could further improve the effect of HLA matching. However, new techniques could be applied to reduce the chance of rejection. Options are the local or systemic use of biologics, or gene therapy, aiming at preventing or suppressing immune responses. The goal of all these approaches should be to prevent a first rejection, as secondary grafts are usually at higher risk of complications including rejections than first grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H van Essen
- Department of Ophthalmology, J3-S, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - D L Roelen
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - K A Williams
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - M J Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology, J3-S, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands; Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA; Peking University Eye Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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4
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Abstract
Gene therapy holds promise for the treatment of many inherited and acquired diseases of the eye. Successful ocular gene therapy interventions depend on efficient gene transfer to targeted cells with minimal toxicity. A major challenge is to overcome both intracellular and extracellular barriers associated with ocular gene delivery. Numerous viral and nonviral vectors were explored to improve transfection efficiency. Among nonviral delivery systems, polymeric vectors have gained significant attention in recent years owing to their nontoxic and non-immunogenic nature. Polyplexes or nanoparticles can be prepared by interaction of cationic polymers with DNA, which facilitate cellular uptake, endolysosomal escape and nuclear entry through active mechanisms. Chemical modification of these polymers allows for the generation of flexible delivery vectors with desirable properties. In this article several synthetic and natural polymeric systems utilized for ocular gene delivery are discussed.
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Parekh M, Ferrari S, Di Iorio E, Barbaro V, Bertolin M, Ferrari B, Ponzin D. Targeting corneal disorders using gene therapy. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1586/eop.12.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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6
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Hippert C, Ibanes S, Serratrice N, Court F, Malecaze F, Kremer EJ, Kalatzis V. Corneal transduction by intra-stromal injection of AAV vectors in vivo in the mouse and ex vivo in human explants. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35318. [PMID: 22523585 PMCID: PMC3327666 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is a transparent, avascular tissue that acts as the major refractive surface of the eye. Corneal transparency, assured by the inner stroma, is vital for this role. Disruption in stromal transparency can occur in some inherited or acquired diseases. As a consequence, light entering the eye is blocked or distorted, leading to decreased visual acuity. Possible treatment for restoring transparency could be via viral-based gene therapy. The stroma is particularly amenable to this strategy due to its immunoprivileged nature and low turnover rate. We assayed the potential of AAV vectors to transduce keratocytes following intra-stromal injection in vivo in the mouse cornea and ex vivo in human explants. In murine and human corneas, we transduced the entire stroma using a single injection, preferentially targeted keratocytes and achieved long-term gene transfer (up to 17 months in vivo in mice). Of the serotypes tested, AAV2/8 was the most promising for gene transfer in both mouse and man. Furthermore, transgene expression could be transiently increased following aggression to the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Hippert
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
| | - Sandy Ibanes
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Serratrice
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
| | - Franck Court
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
| | - François Malecaze
- Inserm U563, Toulouse, France
- Département d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Eric J. Kremer
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
| | - Vasiliki Kalatzis
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
- Universités Montpellier I & II, Montpellier, France
- * E-mail:
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7
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Abstract
Corneal neovascularization (CNV) may be a physiological response to various stimuli, but a chronic and persistent upregulation of neoangiogenesis can result in pathological CNV. Pathological blood vessels are immature and lack structural integrity, predisposing the cornea to lipid exudation, inflammation, and scarring. CNV can therefore become a potentially blinding condition. In this review, we frame CNV in an epidemiological perspective, consider risk factors for CNV, provide an overview of CNV pathogenesis, and consider the impact of CNV on corneal transplantation. We consider treatments that are of largely historical interest, before reviewing contemporary medical and surgical treatments. Within medical treatments, we report on steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, antivascular endothelial growth factor agents, and cyclosporine. Within surgical treatments, we report on the use of lasers, photodynamic therapy, superficial keratectomy, and diathermy/cautery-based treatments.
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Abstract
The cornea is particularly suited to gene therapy. The cornea is readily accessible, normally transparent, and is somewhat sequestrated from the general circulation and the systemic immune system. The principle of genetic therapy for the cornea is to use an appropriate vector system to transfer a gene to the cornea itself, or to the ocular environs, or systemically, so that a transgenic protein will be expressed that will modulate congenital or acquired disease. The protein may be structural such as a collagen, or functionally active such as an enzyme, cytokine or growth factor that may modulate a pathological process. Alternatively, gene expression may be silenced by the use of modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides. Interestingly, despite a very considerable amount of work in animal models, clinical translation directed to gene therapy of the human cornea has been minimal. This is in contrast to gene therapy for monogenic inherited diseases of the retina, where promising early results of clinical trials for Leber's congenital amaurosis have already been published and a number of other trials are ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keryn A Williams
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia 5042, Australia.
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10
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Seow WY, Yang YY, George AJT. Oligopeptide-mediated gene transfer into mouse corneal endothelial cells: expression, design optimization, uptake mechanism and nuclear localization. Nucleic Acids Res 2009; 37:6276-89. [PMID: 19692581 PMCID: PMC2764440 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkp651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene transfer to the corneal endothelium has potential in preventing corneal transplant rejection. In this study, we transfected mouse corneal endothelial cells (MCEC) with a class of novel arginine-rich oligopeptides. The peptides featured a tri-block design and mediated reporter gene expression in MCEC more efficiently than the commercial polyethylenimine standard. The functionality of each block was demonstrated to critically influence the performance of the peptide. Results from confocal imaging and flow cytometry then showed that energy-dependent endocytosis was the dominant form of uptake and multiple pathways were involved. Additionally, uptake was strongly dependent on interactions with cell-surface heparan sulphate. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer studies revealed that the peptide/DNA entered cells as an associated complex and some will have dissociated by 8.5 h. Large-scale accumulation of uncondensed DNA within the nucleus can also be observed by 26 h. Finally, as a proof of biological relevance, we transfected MCEC with plasmids encoding for the functional indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) enzyme. We then demonstrated that the expressed IDO could catalyse the degradation of l-tryptophan, which in turn suppressed the growth of CD4+ T-cells in a proliferation assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yang Seow
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, Singapore 138669, Singapore
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Hao J, Li SK, Kao WWY, Liu CY. Gene delivery to cornea. Brain Res Bull 2009; 81:256-61. [PMID: 19560524 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2009.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Revised: 06/15/2009] [Accepted: 06/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the strategies of in vivo gene delivery to the cornea. A number of studies have demonstrated the feasibility of targeted delivery of oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA (siRNA), plasmid DNA, and viral vectors to the corneal cells in vivo, specifically stromal keratocytes and corneal epithelial cells, via intrastromal injection, iontophoresis, electroporation, and gene gun. Intrastromal injection of plasmid DNA and adenovirus each can result in efficient transgene expression to stromal keratocytes. The introduction of foreign genes into intact corneal epithelium specifically requires more invasive procedures such as gene gun to disrupt the tight junction barrier and/or cell membranes. The combination of iontophoresis and electroporation was found to be effective in delivering siRNA but not plasmid DNA into the corneal epithelium. Nanocarriers such as polymeric micelles are promising methods of corneal gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsong Hao
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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12
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Abstract
Corneal allotransplantation is highly successful in the short term, but much less successful in the longer term. Many corneal grafts in recipients with corneal neovascularization or the sequelae of ocular inflammation undergo irreversible rejection, despite topical immunosuppression with glucocorticosteroids. Sensitization to cornea-derived alloantigen proceeds by both direct and indirect routes, but the anatomic location of sensitization remains unclear. Multiple and redundant mechanisms operate in the effector phase of corneal graft rejection, which is largely cell-mediated rather than antibody-mediated. Human leukocyte antigen matching may improve outcomes in high-risk patients but systemic immunosuppression is frequently ineffective and is seldom used.
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13
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Klausner EA, Peer D, Chapman RL, Multack RF, Andurkar SV. Corneal gene therapy. J Control Release 2007; 124:107-33. [PMID: 17707107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2007.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 05/15/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy to the cornea can potentially correct inherited and acquired diseases of the cornea. Factors that facilitate corneal gene delivery are the accessibility and transparency of the cornea, its stability ex vivo and the immune privilege of the eye. Initial corneal gene delivery studies characterized the relationship between intraocular modes of administration and location of reporter gene expression. The challenge of achieving effective topical gene transfer, presumably due to tear flow, blinking and low penetration of the vector through epithlelial tight junctions left no alternative but invasive administration to the anterior chamber and corneal stroma. DNA vaccination, RNA interference and gene transfer of cytokines, growth factors and enzymes modulated the corneal microenvironment. Positive results were obtained in preclinical studies for prevention and treatment of corneal graft rejection, neovascularization, haze and herpetic stromal keratitis. These studies, corneal gene delivery systems and modes of administration, and considerations regarding the choice of animal species used are the focus of this review. Opportunities in the field of corneal gene therapy lie in expanding the array of corneal diseases investigated and in the implementation of recent designs of safer vectors with reduced immunogenicity and longer duration of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eytan A Klausner
- Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States.
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14
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Ardjomand N, Komericki P, McAlister JC, Faschinger C, El-Shabrawi Y, Wedrich A. 100 Jahre erfolgreiche Hornhauttransplantation. SPEKTRUM DER AUGENHEILKUNDE 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s00717-007-0202-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Toropainen E, Hornof M, Kaarniranta K, Johansson P, Urtti A. Corneal epithelium as a platform for secretion of transgene products after transfection with liposomal gene eyedrops. J Gene Med 2007; 9:208-16. [PMID: 17351984 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The first objective of the study was to evaluate the transfection of corneal epithelium with non-viral vectors to secrete transgene products into the tear fluid and aqueous humor. The second goal was to evaluate the differentiated corneal epithelial cell culture for transfection studies. METHODS The human corneal epithelial (HCE) cell line was cultured to different stages of differentiation and transfected with complexes of pCMV-SEAP2 with DOTAP/DOPE, DOTAP/DOPE/protamine sulfate (PS) and polyethylenimine (PEI). The complexes of DOTAP/DOPE with plasmid (CMV-SEAP2 or pCMV-Luc4) were subsequently applied topically to the rabbit eyes. Secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) was analyzed using chemiluminescent assay. Luciferase (Luc) was detected at the mRNA level in cornea and conjunctiva using a qRT-PCR. RESULTS The transfection levels decreased with differentiation of HCE cells. PEI was effective in transfecting both the dividing and partly differentiated cells, but ineffective in differentiated cells. DOTAP/DOPE showed high activity in differentiated cell cultures, while added PS did not improve transfection. Significant SEAP expression was observed for three days after in vivo transfection in the tear fluid and aqueous humor. The luciferase mRNA was found both in the cornea and conjunctiva. The rates of SEAP secretion from both the basolateral side of differentiated HCE cells and cornea in vivo were within the same range. CONCLUSIONS Corneal epithelium can be transfected topically to secrete gene products to the tear fluid and aqueous humor. The differentiated HCE model is a useful tool in the evaluation of non-viral carriers for corneal transfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Toropainen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Kuopio, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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Parker DGA, Kaufmann C, Brereton HM, Anson DS, Francis-Staite L, Jessup CF, Marshall K, Tan C, Koldej R, Coster DJ, Williams KA. Lentivirus-mediated gene transfer to the rat, ovine and human cornea. Gene Ther 2007; 14:760-7. [PMID: 17301843 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy of the cornea shows promise for modulating corneal transplant rejection but the most appropriate vector for gene transfer has yet to be determined. We investigated a lentiviral vector (LV) for its ability to transduce corneal endothelium. A lentivector expressing enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (eYFP) under the control of the Simian virus type 40 early promoter (LV-SV40-eYFP) transduced 80-90% of rat, ovine and human corneal endothelial cells as detected by fluorescence microscopy. The kinetics of gene expression varied among species, with ovine corneal endothelium showing a relative delay in detectable reporter gene expression compared with the rat or human corneal endothelium. Vectors containing the myeloproliferative sarcoma virus promoter or the phosphoglycerate kinase promoter were not significantly more effective than LV-SV40-eYFP. The stability of eYFP expression in rat and ovine corneas following ex vivo transduction of the donor cornea was assessed following orthotopic corneal transplantation. Following transduction ex vivo, eYFP expression was maintained in corneal endothelial cells for at least 28 days after corneal transplantation in the sheep and >60 days in the rat. Thus, rat, ovine and human corneal endothelial cells were efficiently transduced by the LV, and gene expression appeared stable over weeks in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G A Parker
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Bloquel C, Bourges JL, Touchard E, Berdugo M, BenEzra D, Behar-Cohen F. Non-viral ocular gene therapy: potential ocular therapeutic avenues. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2006; 58:1224-42. [PMID: 17095114 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2006.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2006] [Accepted: 07/31/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Non-viral vectors for potential gene replacement and therapy have been developed in order to overcome the drawbacks of viral vectors. The diversity of non-viral vectors allows for a wide range of various products, flexibility of application, ease of use, low-cost of production and enhanced "genomic" safety. Using non-viral strategies, oligonucleotides (ODNs) can be delivered naked (less efficient) or entrapped in cationic lipids, polymers or peptides forming slow release delivery systems, which can be adapted according to the organ targeted and the therapy purposes. Tissue and cell internalization can be further enhanced by changing by physical or chemical means. Moreover, a specific vector can be selected according to disease course and intensity of manifestations fulfilling specific requirements such as the duration of drug release and its level along with cells and tissues specific targeting. From accumulating knowledge and experience, it appears that combination of several non-viral techniques may increase the efficacy and ensure the safety of these evolving and interesting gene therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Bloquel
- INSERM U598, Physiopathology of Ocular Diseases, Therapeutic innovations, René Descartes University, Paris 5, 15 Rue de l'Ecole de Médecine 75006 Paris, France
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18
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Abstract
Technological advances in the field of gene therapy has prompted more than three hundred phase I and phase II gene-based clinical trials for the treatment of cancer, AIDS, macular degeneration, cardiovascular, and other monogenic diseases. Besides treating diseases, gene transfer technology has been utilized for the development of preventive and therapeutic vaccines for malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis A, B and C viruses, AIDS, and influenza. The potential therapeutic applications of gene transfer technology are enormous. The cornea is an excellent candidate for gene therapy because of its accessibility and immune-privileged nature. In the last two decades, various viral vectors, such as adeno, adeno-associated, retro, lenti, and herpes simplex, as well as non-viral methods, were examined for introducing DNA into corneal cells in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo. Most of these studies used fluorescent or non-fluorescent marker genes to track the level and duration of transgene expression in corneal cells. However, limited studies were directed to evaluate prospects of gene-based interventions for corneal diseases or disorders such as allograft rejection, laser-induced post-operative haze, herpes simplex keratitis, and wound healing in animal models. We will review the successes and obstacles impeding gene therapy approaches used for delivering genes into the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv R Mohan
- The Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Ave, Mail Code i-31, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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19
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Klebe S, Coster DJ, Sykes PJ, Swinburne S, Hallsworth P, Scheerlinck JPY, Krishnan R, Williams KA. Prolongation of Sheep Corneal Allograft Survival by Transfer of the Gene Encoding Ovine IL-12-p40 but Not IL-4 to Donor Corneal Endothelium. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2005; 175:2219-26. [PMID: 16081789 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.175.4.2219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Immunological rejection is the major cause of human corneal allograft failure. We hypothesized that local production of IL-4 or the p40 subunit of IL-12 (p40 IL-12) by the grafted cornea might prolong allograft survival. Replication-deficient adenoviral vectors encoding ovine IL-4 or p40 IL-12 and GFP were generated and used to infect ovine corneas ex vivo. mRNA for each cytokine was detected in infected corneas, and the presence of secreted protein in corneal supernatants was confirmed by bioassay (for IL-4) or immunoprecipitation (for p40 IL-12). Sheep received uninfected or gene-modified orthotopic corneal allografts. Postoperatively, untreated corneas (n = 13) and corneas expressing GFP (n = 6) were rejected at a median of 21 and 20 days, respectively. Corneas expressing IL-4 (n = 6) underwent rejection at 18.5 days (p > 0.05 compared with controls) and histology demonstrated the presence of eosinophils. In contrast, corneas expressing p40 IL-12 (n = 9) showed prolonged allograft survival (median day to rejection = 45 days, p = 0.003). Local intraocular production of p40 IL-12 thus prolonged corneal graft survival significantly, but local production of the prototypic immunomodulatory cytokine IL-4 induced eosinophilia, inflammation, and rejection. These findings have important implications for the development of novel strategies to improve human corneal graft survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Klebe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University and Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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20
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Jessup CF, Brereton HM, Coster DJ, Williams KA. In vitro adenovirus mediated gene transfer to the human cornea. Br J Ophthalmol 2005; 89:658-61. [PMID: 15923495 PMCID: PMC1772682 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2004.061754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Replication deficient adenovirus is an efficient vector for gene transfer to the cornea. The aim was to optimise the transduction of human corneal endothelium with adenoviral vectors and to measure transgene production from transduced corneas. METHODS Adenoviral vectors (AdV) encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) or a transgenic protein (scFv) were used to transfect 34 human corneas. Reporter gene expression was assessed after 72-96 hours of organ culture. The kinetics of scFv production was monitored in vitro for 1 month by flow cytometric analysis of corneal supernatants. RESULTS Transduction of human corneas with high doses (5 x 10(7)-3 x 10(8) pfu) of AdV caused eGFP expression in 12-100% of corneal endothelial cells. Corneas were efficiently transduced following up to 28 days in cold storage. Very high AdV doses (2 x 10(9) pfu) reduced endothelial cell densities to 98 (SD 129) nuclei/mm(2) (compared to 2114 (716) nuclei/mm(2) for all other groups). Transgenic protein production peaked at 2.4 (0.9) microg/cornea/day at 2 weeks post-transduction, and decreased to 1.2 (0.4) microg/cornea/day by 33 days, at which time endothelial cell density had decreased to 431 (685) nuclei/mm(2). CONCLUSION Human corneas can be efficiently transduced by AdV following extended periods of cold storage, and transgene expression is maintained for at least 1 month in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Jessup
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia.
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Lai L, Lin K, Foulks G, Ma L, Xiao X, Chen K. Highly efficient ex vivo gene delivery into human corneal endothelial cells by recombinant adeno-associated virus. Curr Eye Res 2005; 30:213-9. [PMID: 15804747 DOI: 10.1080/02713680590927515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gene delivery at high efficiency is crucial for cornea endothelial cell gene therapy. This study investigated the efficiency of gene transfer by recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) in an organ culture system. METHODS Human cornea tissue was exposed to rAAV delivering green fluorescent protein (ss-rAAV2-CMV-GFP) for one hour and then cultured at 31 degrees C for 2 weeks in a medium supplemented with growth factors. Endothelial cells expressing GFP gene were then identified. RESULTS High-efficiency gene transfer was found in over 90% of endothelial cells. Gene expression could be detected within 24 hours and remained stable up to 2 weeks in the organ culture system. CONCLUSIONS The high-delivery efficiency and rapid induction of gene expression indicate that rAAV is a promising vector for cornea endothelial cell gene therapy for ocular diseases. Organ culture at 31 degrees C using culture medium supplemented with growth factors significantly facilitates gene transfer into human corneal endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lai
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences,Chang Gang University, Tau-Yuan, Taiwan
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Dannowski H, Bednarz J, Reszka R, Engelmann K, Pleyer U. Lipid-mediated gene transfer of acidic fibroblast growth factor into human corneal endothelial cells. Exp Eye Res 2005; 80:93-101. [PMID: 15652530 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2004.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2003] [Accepted: 08/11/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to optimize non-viral gene transfer conditions and investigate the effect of fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF-1) gene transfer on human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) proliferation. Five non-viral vectors (Lipofectin, DMRIE-C, DAC-30, Effectene, FuGene6) were used to transfect HCEC with plasmids coding for enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and FGF-1. Transfection efficiency and toxicity (n=6) were quantified and optimized using the EGFP construct by FACS-analysis. Using optimal conditions HCEC were transfected with the FGF-1 plasmid and cell proliferation as well as expression of FGF-1 were determined at days 4 and 7 by counting and western blotting, respectively. Lipofectin (17+/-2.02%) transfected HCEC more successfully than DMRIE-C (11+/-1.46%), Effectene (9+/-0.62%), FuGene (9+/-0.93%) and DAC-30 (7+/-0.59%). Toxicity of the lipids ranged from 2 to 4%. Optimal HCEC proliferation was achieved with DAC-30/FGF-1 (P<0.05), whereas all other vectors did not result in significantly increased cell proliferation. However, all of the transfected cells produced FGF-1 in different amounts as indicated by western blotting. Efficient and almost non-toxic transfer of the FGF-1 gene into HCEC can be successfully achieved by lipid-based techniques. Using optimal conditions significantly increased cell proliferation was independent on gene transfer efficiency. This may indicate that even a low transfection rate is sufficient to produce a concentration of FGF-1 that will have a stimulatory effect on HCECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haike Dannowski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchowklinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin D-13353, Germany
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Abstract
The most commonly performed transplant is that of the cornea, with 2292 corneal grafts performed in the UK in 2002-03, compared with 1775 renal transplants [1]. In the USA approximately 40 000 transplants are performed every year [2]. However this preponderance is not reflected in the amount of attention given to this transplanted tissue by the scientific community: for example up till now there have been no papers published in the American Journal of Transplantation that have cornea as a key or title word (as determined by a Medline search in December 2003). There are several reasons for this. The first is that corneal grafting is the province of ophthalmologists, who (with notable exceptions) are isolated from the transplant community. The second is that there is a widespread belief that, because of the existence of immune privilege, corneal grafts are not rejected and so there is no need for further research. As we will discuss later, this is incorrect. In this article we will seek to show that study of corneal transplantation is important in its own right, and also that it has lessons for those interested in other forms of allograft.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J T George
- Department of Immunology, Division of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
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Abstract
The past two to three years have witnessed a remarkable increase in the number of gene therapy studies to treat almost every disease of the eye. All types of delivery systems, viral and non-viral, have been used. Experiments have begun to move from the use of reporters, to genes with potential therapeutic value. In this paper, rather than giving an overview from the beginning of ocular gene therapy, I have chosen to review its most recent advances. Although numerous issues remain to be solved, the emerging picture is encouraging. Within the experimental setting, conditions in the anterior and posterior segments have been improved by the administration of genes encoding beneficial proteins. In one case, vision has been restored in a congenitally blind animal. Limitations do exit, however a greater understanding of the molecular biology of eye tissues coupled with the development of low immunogenicity vectors will continue edging the way for a future use of gene therapy in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Borrás
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 6109 Neuroscience Research Building, Campus Box 7041, 103 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Tan PH, Manunta M, Ardjomand N, Xue SA, Larkin DFP, Haskard DO, Taylor KM, George AJT. Antibody targeted gene transfer to endothelium. J Gene Med 2003; 5:311-23. [PMID: 12692865 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the drawbacks of the currently available vectors for gene therapy is the lack of selectivity in gene delivery. We have therefore investigated a strategy to generate immunoliposomes to target non-viral vectors to cell surface receptors on endothelium. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have developed a novel method of coupling antibodies (Abs) to liposomes complexed to DNA, using mild heat treatment to aggregate the immunoglobulin G (IgG). The interaction of plasmid DNA, liposomes and Abs was measured using a gel retardation assay and a resonant mirror biosensor. The size of the transfection complex was determined by light scattering, and the binding and internalization of the complex to cells was followed using flow cytometry. The transfection ability was tested on cell lines and primary cells in vitro and human corneal or vascular tissues ex vivo. RESULTS The interaction of antibodies with liposomes is relatively stable (t(1/2) congruent with 45 min). The size of the liposome, Ab and DNA complex was found to be around 500 nm in 4% BSA. The addition of anti-transferrin receptor Abs increased the internalization of the liposome-DNA complex into cells. Abs against both transferrin receptor and E-selectin were shown to augment transfection efficiency of liposomes to cell expressing the appropriate antigens. They are also shown to be efficient in mediating gene delivery to corneal and vascular tissues ex vivo. CONCLUSIONS We have shown that our novel vector is capable of in vitro and ex vivo gene delivery to cells and human tissues including cornea, artery and vein. In particular, an Ab against E-selectin was effective at selectively delivering genes to activated endothelial cells expressing the adhesion molecule. Such a strategy will have applications for targeting these tissues prior to transplantation or autologous grafting, and, in the longer term, may allow in vivo targeting of gene therapy to inflammatory sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Tan
- Department of Immunology, Division of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 ONN, UK
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Lee L, Buckley C, Blades MC, Panayi G, George AJT, Pitzalis C. Identification of synovium-specific homing peptides by in vivo phage display selection. ARTHRITIS AND RHEUMATISM 2002; 46:2109-20. [PMID: 12209516 DOI: 10.1002/art.10464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify homing peptides specific for human synovium that could be used as targeting devices for delivering therapeutic/diagnostic agents to human joints. METHODS Human synovium and skin were transplanted into SCID mice. A disulfide-constrained 7-amino acid peptide phage display library was injected intravenously into the animals and synovial homing phage recovered from synovial grafts. Following 3-4 cycles of enrichment, DNA sequencing of homing phage clones allowed the identification of specific peptides that were synthesized by a-fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl chemistry and used in competitive in vivo assays and immunohistochemistry analyses. RESULTS We isolated synovial homing phages displaying specific peptides that distinctively bound to synovial but not skin or mouse microvascular endothelium (MVE). They retained their tissue homing specificity in vivo, independently from the phage component, the original pathology of the transplanted tissue, and the degree of human/murine graft vascularization. One such peptide (CKSTHDRLC) maintained synovial homing specificity both when presented by the phage and as a free synthetic peptide. The synthetic peptide also competed with and inhibited in vivo the binding of the parent phage to the cognate synovial MVE ligand. CONCLUSION This is the first report describing peptides with homing properties specific for human synovial MVE. This was demonstrated using a novel approach targeting human tissues, transplanted into SCID mice, directly by in vivo phage display selection. The identification of such peptides opens the possibility of using these sequences to construct joint-specific drug delivery systems that may have considerable impact in the treatment of arthritic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis Lee
- Guy's, King's, and St Thomas' School of Medicine, London, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Tobin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Loyola University of Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and Edward Hines, Jr., Veterans Affairs Hospital, Hines, Illinois 6041, USA.
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