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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Wu PS, Liu HY, Wong TH, Lin JT, Hu FR, Lin MH. Comparative Proteomics Reveals Prolonged Corneal Preservation Impaired Ocular Surface Immunity Accompanied by Fibrosis in Human Stroma. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:3730-3741. [PMID: 37976471 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00383] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cornea transplantation is one of the most commonly performed allotransplantations worldwide. Prolonged storage of donor corneas leads to decreased endothelial cell viability, severe stromal edema, and opacification, significantly compromising the success rate of corneal transplantation. Corneal stroma, which constitutes the majority of the cornea, plays a crucial role in maintaining its shape and transparency. In this study, we conducted proteomic analysis of corneal stroma preserved in Optisol-GS medium at 4 °C for 7 or 14 days to investigate molecular changes during storage. Among 1923 identified proteins, 1634 were quantifiable and 387 were significantly regulated with longer preservation. Compared to stroma preserved for 7 days, proteins involved in ocular surface immunomodulation were largely downregulated while proteins associated with extracellular matrix reorganization and fibrosis were upregulated in those preserved for 14 days. The increase in extracellular matrix structural proteins together with upregulation of growth factor signaling implies the occurrence of stromal fibrosis, which may compromise tissue clarity and cause vision impairments. This study is the first to provide insights into how storage duration affects corneal stroma from a proteomic perspective. Our findings may contribute to future research efforts aimed at developing long-term preservation techniques and improving the quality of preserved corneas, thus maximizing their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Shan Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hsuan Wong
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ti Lin
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Fung-Rong Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Miao-Hsia Lin
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
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Wu YF, Chang NW, Chu LA, Liu HY, Zhou YX, Pai YL, Yu YS, Kuan CH, Wu YC, Lin SJ, Tan HY. Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals Cellular Heterogeneity and Complex Cell-Cell Communication Networks in the Mouse Cornea. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:5. [PMID: 37792336 PMCID: PMC10565710 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.13.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To generate a single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) map and construct cell-cell communication networks of mouse corneas. Methods C57BL/6 mouse corneas were dissociated to single cells and subjected to scRNA-seq. Cell populations were clustered and annotated for bioinformatic analysis using the R package "Seurat." Differential expression patterns were validated and spatially mapped with whole-mount immunofluorescence staining. Global intercellular signaling networks were constructed using CellChat. Results Unbiased clustering of scRNA-seq transcriptomes of 14,732 cells from 40 corneas revealed 17 cell clusters of six major cell types: nine epithelial cell, three keratocyte, two corneal endothelial cell, and one each of immune cell, vascular endothelial cell, and fibroblast clusters. The nine epithelial cell subtypes included quiescent limbal stem cells, transit-amplifying cells, and differentiated cells from corneas and two minor conjunctival epithelial clusters. CellChat analysis provided an atlas of the complex intercellular signaling communications among all cell types. Conclusions We constructed a complete single-cell transcriptomic map and the complex signaling cross-talk among all cell types of the cornea, which can be used as a foundation atlas for further research on the cornea. This study also deepens the understanding of the cellular heterogeneity and heterotypic cell-cell interaction within corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueh-Feng Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Wen Chang
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-An Chu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yu Liu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Xian Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Lin Pai
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Sheng Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsiang Kuan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ching Wu
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Jan Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yuan Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Ghiasi M, Hashemi M, Salimi A, Jadidi K, Tavallaie M, Aghamollaei H. Combination of natural scaffolds and conditional medium to induce the differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells into keratocyte-like cells and its safety evaluation in the animal cornea. Tissue Cell 2023; 82:102117. [PMID: 37267821 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102117] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Keratocytes are the main cellular components of the corneal stroma. This cell is quiescent and cannot be cultured easily. The aim of this study was to investigate differentiate human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) into corneal keratocyte cells by combining natural scaffolds and conditioned medium (CM) and evaluating their safety in the rabbit's cornea. Keratocytes were cultured in an optimal culture medium and this medium was collected and kept as a CM. hADSCs were cultured on the decellularized human small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) lenticule (SL), amniotic membrane (AM), and collagen-coated plates, and were exposed to keratocyte-CM (KCM) for 7, 14, and 21 days. Differentiation was evaluated using Real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry (ICC). hADSCs were cultured on the SL scaffolds and implanted in the corneal stroma of 8 New Zealand male rabbits. Rabbits were followed for 3 months and the safety was evaluated by clinical and histological variables. Real-time PCR results showed a significant increase in the expression of keratocyte-specific markers on the 21 day of differentiation compared to the control group. ICC also confirmed the induction of differentiation. Implantation of SLs containing differentiated cells in the cornea of animals showed no serious complications including neovascularization, corneal opacity, inflammation, or signs of tissue rejection. Furthermore, the evaluation of the presence of keratocyte-like cells after three months in the rabbit stroma was confirmed by Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis. Our results showed that combination of combination of corneal extracellular matrix and KCM can induced keratocytes differentiation of hADSC and can be introduced as a alternative method to supply the required keratocytes in corneal tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Ghiasi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Science Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Salimi
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrow Jadidi
- Vision Health Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Mahmood Tavallaie
- Human Genetics Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Aghamollaei
- Chemical Injures Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Serpen JY, Presley W, Beil A, Armenti ST, Johnson K, Mian SI, Innis JW, Prasov L. A Novel 13q12 Microdeletion Associated with Familial Syndromic Corneal Opacification. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1034. [PMID: 37239394 PMCID: PMC10218699 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051034] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive corneal opacification can result from multiple etiologies, including corneal dystrophies or systemic and genetic diseases. We describe a novel syndrome featuring progressive epithelial and anterior stromal opacification in a brother and sister and their mildly affected father, with all three family members having sensorineural hearing loss and two also with tracheomalacia/laryngomalacia. All carried a 1.2 Mb deletion at chromosome 13q12.11, with no other noteworthy co-segregating variants identified on clinical exome or chromosomal microarray. RNAseq analysis from an affected corneal epithelial sample from the proband's brother revealed downregulation of XPO4, IFT88, ZDHHC20, LATS2, SAP18, and EEF1AKMT1 within the microdeletion interval, with no notable effect on the expression of nearby genes. Pathway analysis showed upregulation of collagen metabolism and extracellular matrix (ECM) formation/maintenance, with no significantly down-regulated pathways. Analysis of overlapping deletions/variants demonstrated that deleterious variants in XPO4 were found in patients with laryngomalacia and sensorineural hearing loss, with the latter phenotype also being a feature of variants in the partially overlapping DFNB1 locus, yet none of these had reported corneal phenotypes. Together, these data define a novel microdeletion-associated syndromic progressive corneal opacification and suggest that a combination of genes within the microdeletion may contribute to ECM dysregulation leading to pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Y. Serpen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - William Presley
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Adelyn Beil
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Stephen T. Armenti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kayla Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Shahzad I. Mian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Jeffrey W. Innis
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Lev Prasov
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Brief incubation of corneal grafts in activated platelet rich plasma enhances corneal endothelial cell survival and regeneration. Exp Eye Res 2022; 220:109100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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binte M. Yusoff NZ, Riau AK, Yam GHF, binte Halim NSH, Mehta JS. Isolation and Propagation of Human Corneal Stromal Keratocytes for Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy. Cells 2022; 11:cells11010178. [PMID: 35011740 PMCID: PMC8750693 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human corneal stroma contains corneal stromal keratocytes (CSKs) that synthesize and deposit collagens and keratan sulfate proteoglycans into the stromal matrix to maintain the corneal structural integrity and transparency. In adult corneas, CSKs are quiescent and arrested in the G0 phase of the cell cycle. Following injury, some CSKs undergo apoptosis, whereas the surviving cells are activated to become stromal fibroblasts (SFs) and myofibroblasts (MyoFBs), as a natural mechanism of wound healing. The SFs and MyoFBs secrete abnormal extracellular matrix proteins, leading to corneal fibrosis and scar formation (corneal opacification). The issue is compounded by the fact that CSK transformation into SFs or MyoFBs is irreversible in vivo, which leads to chronic opacification. In this scenario, corneal transplantation is the only recourse. The application of cell therapy by replenishing CSKs, propagated in vitro, in the injured corneas has been demonstrated to be efficacious in resolving early-onset corneal opacification. However, expanding CSKs is challenging and has been the limiting factor for the application in corneal tissue engineering and cell therapy. The supplementation of serum in the culture medium promotes cell division but inevitably converts the CSKs into SFs. Similar to the in vivo conditions, the transformation is irreversible, even when the SF culture is switched to a serum-free medium. In the current article, we present a detailed protocol on the isolation and propagation of bona fide human CSKs and the morphological and genotypic differences from SFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Zahirah binte M. Yusoff
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (N.Z.b.M.Y.); (A.K.R.); (N.S.H.b.H.)
| | - Andri K. Riau
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (N.Z.b.M.Y.); (A.K.R.); (N.S.H.b.H.)
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Gary H. F. Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Nuur Shahinda Humaira binte Halim
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (N.Z.b.M.Y.); (A.K.R.); (N.S.H.b.H.)
| | - Jodhbir S. Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (N.Z.b.M.Y.); (A.K.R.); (N.S.H.b.H.)
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Corneal and External Eye Disease Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-6322-8378
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Anitua E, Muruzabal F, Pino A, Prado R, Azkargorta M, Elortza F, Merayo-Lloves J. Proteomic Characterization of Plasma Rich in Growth Factors and Undiluted Autologous Serum. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212176. [PMID: 34830053 PMCID: PMC8618701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last three decades, there has been special interest in developing drugs that mimic the characteristics of natural tears for use it in the treatment of several ocular surface disorders. Interestingly, the composition of blood plasma is very similar to tears. Therefore, different blood-derived products like autologous serum (AS) and plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) have been developed for the treatment of diverse ocular pathologies. However, scarce studies have been carried out to analyze the differences between both types of blood-derived products. In the present study, blood from three healthy donors was drawn and processed to obtain AS and PRGF eye drops. Then, human corneal stromal keratocytes (HK) were treated with PRGF or undiluted AS. Proteomic analysis was carried out to analyze and characterize the differential protein profiles between PRGF and AS, and the differentially expressed proteins in HK cells after PRGF and AS treatment. The results obtained in the present study show that undiluted AS induces the activation of different pathways related to an inflammatory, angiogenic, oxidative stress and scarring response in HK cells regarding PRGF. These results suggest that PRGF could be a better alternative than AS for the treatment of ocular surface disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Anitua
- BTI—Biotechnology Institute, 01007 Vitoria, Spain; (F.M.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology—UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), 01007 Vitoria, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Francisco Muruzabal
- BTI—Biotechnology Institute, 01007 Vitoria, Spain; (F.M.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology—UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), 01007 Vitoria, Spain
| | - Ander Pino
- BTI—Biotechnology Institute, 01007 Vitoria, Spain; (F.M.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology—UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), 01007 Vitoria, Spain
| | - Roberto Prado
- BTI—Biotechnology Institute, 01007 Vitoria, Spain; (F.M.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology—UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), 01007 Vitoria, Spain
| | - Mikel Azkargorta
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, CIBERehd, ProteoRed-ISCIII, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48160 Derio, Spain; (M.A.); (F.E.)
| | - Felix Elortza
- Proteomics Platform, CIC bioGUNE, CIBERehd, ProteoRed-ISCIII, Bizkaia Science and Technology Park, 48160 Derio, Spain; (M.A.); (F.E.)
| | - Jesús Merayo-Lloves
- Instituto Oftalmológico Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, Universidad de Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain;
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Lee TH, Wani WA, Lee CH, Cheng KK, Shreaz S, Wong S, Hamdan N, Azmi NA. Edible Bird's Nest: The Functional Values of the Prized Animal-Based Bioproduct From Southeast Asia-A Review. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:626233. [PMID: 33953670 PMCID: PMC8089372 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.626233] [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: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Edible Bird's Nest (EBN) is the most prized health delicacy among the Chinese population in the world. Although some scientific characterization and its bioactivities have been studied and researched, no lights have been shed on its actual composition or mechanism. The aim of this review paper is to address the advances of EBN as a therapeutic animal bioproduct, challenges and future perspectives of research involving EBN. The methodology of this review primarily involved a thorough search from the literature undertaken on Web of Science (WoS) using the keyword "edible bird nest". Other information were obtained from the field/market in Malaysia, one of the largest EBN-producing countries. This article collects and describes the publications related to EBN and its therapeutic with diverse functional values. EBN extracts display anti-aging effects, inhibition of influenza virus infection, alternative traditional medicine in athletes and cancer patients, corneal wound healing effects, stimulation of proliferation of human adipose-derived stem cells, potentiate of mitogenic response, epidermal growth factor-like activities, enhancement of bone strength and dermal thickness, eye care, neuroprotective and antioxidant effects. In-depth literature study based on scientific findings were carried out on EBN and its properties. More importantly, the future direction of EBN in research and development as health-promoting ingredients in food and the potential treatment of certain diseases have been outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Hun Lee
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia.,Innovation Centre in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Pagoh Research Center, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia
| | - Waseem A Wani
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Chia Hau Lee
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Kian Kai Cheng
- Innovation Centre in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Pagoh Research Center, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia
| | - Sheikh Shreaz
- Oral Microbiology General Facility Laboratory, Faculty of Dentistry, Health Sciences Center, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
| | - Syieluing Wong
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Norfadilah Hamdan
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Alia Azmi
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
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10
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Hasenzahl M, Müsken M, Mertsch S, Schrader S, Reichl S. Cell sheet technology: Influence of culture conditions on in vitro-cultivated corneal stromal tissue for regenerative therapies of the ocular surface. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2021; 109:1488-1504. [PMID: 33538123 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.34808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro reconstruction of stromal tissue by long-term cultivation of corneal fibroblasts is a smart approach for regenerative therapies of ocular surface diseases. However, systematic investigations evaluating optimized cultivation protocols for the realization of a biomaterial are lacking. This study investigated the influence of supplements to the culture media of human corneal fibroblasts on the formation of a cell sheet consisting of cells and extracellular matrix. Among the supplements studied are vitamin C, fetal bovine serum, L-glutamine, components of collagen such as L-proline, L-4-hydroxyproline and glycine, and TGF-β1, bFGF, IGF-2, PDGF-BB and insulin. After long-term cultivation, the proliferation, collagen and glycosaminoglycan content and light transmission of the cell sheets were examined. Biomechanical properties were investigated by tensile tests and the ultrastructure was characterized by electron microscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, antibody staining and ELISA. The synthesis of extracellular matrix was significantly increased by cultivation with insulin or TGF-β1, each with vitamin C. The sheets exhibited a high transparency and suitable material properties. The production of a transparent, scaffold-free, potentially autologous, in vitro-generated construct by culturing fibroblasts with extracellular matrix synthesis-stimulating supplements represents a promising approach for a biomaterial that can be used for ocular surface reconstruction in slowly progressing diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Hasenzahl
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Technologie, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Mathias Müsken
- Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research, Central Facility for Microscopy, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Sonja Mertsch
- Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Pius-Hospital, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Schrader
- Laboratory of Experimental Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Pius-Hospital, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Reichl
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Technologie, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
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Sharifi S, Islam MM, Sharifi H, Islam R, Nilsson PH, Dohlman CH, Mollnes TE, Paschalis EI, Chodosh J. Sputter Deposition of Titanium on Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Enhances Corneal Biocompatibility. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:41. [PMID: 33442495 PMCID: PMC7774111 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.13.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate titanium (Ti) sputtering of the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) stem of the Boston Keratoprosthesis (BK) as a method to enhance interfacial adhesion between the PMMA and the recipient corneal tissue. Methods PMMA specimens were plasma treated with Ar/O2 and coated with Ti using a DC magnetron sputtering instrument. The topography and hydrophilicity of the surfaces were characterized using atomic force microscopy and a water contact angle instrument, respectively. Scratch hardness and adhesion of the Ti film were measured using a mechanical tester. Biocompatibility assessments were performed using cultured human corneal fibroblasts and whole blood ex vivo. The optical quality of the Ti sputtered BK was evaluated using a custom-made optical bench. Results By contact angle studies, the Ti coating improved PMMA hydrophilicity to match that of medical-grade Ti (Ti-6Al-4V-ELI). Ti sputtering of contact surfaces resulted in a plate-like morphology with increased surface roughness, without impacting the transparency of the BK optical component. Scratch testing indicated that the mechanical behavior of the Ti coating was similar to that of casted Ti, and the coating was stable in pull-off adhesion testing. Sputtered Ti film was highly biocompatible based on tests of cell viability, adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, collagen deposition, and keratocan expression, the properties of which exceeded those of uncoated PMMA and did not induce increased complement activation. Conclusions Titanium coating of the BK stem generated a mechanically and biologically favorable interface, which may help to enhance corneal stromal adhesion and biocompatibility. Translational Relevance Improving the biocompatibility of the BK PMMA stem may improve long-term outcomes of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Sharifi
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohammad Mirazul Islam
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hannah Sharifi
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rakibul Islam
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per H Nilsson
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Linnaeus Center for Biomaterials Chemistry, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Claes H Dohlman
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tom Eirik Mollnes
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Research Laboratory, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway; Faculty of Health Sciences, K.G. Jebsen TREC, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway.,Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eleftherios I Paschalis
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James Chodosh
- Disruptive Technology Laboratory and Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Kamil S, Mohan RR. Corneal stromal wound healing: Major regulators and therapeutic targets. Ocul Surf 2020; 19:290-306. [PMID: 33127599 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Corneal stromal wound healing is a complex event that occurs to restore the transparency of an injured cornea. It involves immediate apoptosis of keratocytes followed by their activation, proliferation, migration, and trans-differentiation to myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts contract to close the wound and secrete extracellular matrix and proteinases to remodel it. Released proteinases may degenerate the basement membrane allowing an influx of cytokines from overlying epithelium. Immune cells infiltrate the wound to clear cellular debris and prevent infections. Gradually basement membrane regenerates, myofibroblasts and immune cells disappear, abnormal matrix is resorbed, and transparency of the cornea is restored. Often this cascade deregulates and corneal opacity results. Factors that prevent corneal opacity after an injury have always intrigued the researchers. They hold clinical relevance as they can guide the outcomes of corneal surgeries. Studies in the past have shed light on the role of various factors in stromal healing. TGFβ (transforming growth factor-beta) signaling is the central player guiding stromal responses. Other major regulators include myofibroblasts, basement membrane, collagen fibrils, small leucine-rich proteoglycans, biophysical cues, proteins derived from extracellular matrix, and membrane channels. The knowledge about their roles helped to develop novel therapies to prevent corneal opacity. This article reviews the role of major regulators that determine the outcome of stromal healing. It also discusses emerging therapies that modulate the role of these regulators to prevent stromal opacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeeh Kamil
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, USA; One-Health Vision Research Program, Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, USA; One-Health Vision Research Program, Department of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA; Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
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13
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Shinde V, Hu N, Mahale A, Maiti G, Daoud Y, Eberhart CG, Maktabi A, Jun AS, Al-Swailem SA, Chakravarti S. RNA sequencing of corneas from two keratoconus patient groups identifies potential biomarkers and decreased NRF2-antioxidant responses. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9907. [PMID: 32555404 PMCID: PMC7303170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66735-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus is a highly prevalent (1 in 2000), genetically complex and multifactorial, degenerative disease of the cornea whose pathogenesis and underlying transcriptomic changes are poorly understood. To identify disease-specific changes and gene expression networks, we performed next generation RNA sequencing from individual corneas of two distinct patient populations - one from the Middle East, as keratoconus is particularly severe in this group, and the second from an African American population in the United States. We conducted a case: control RNA sequencing study of 7 African American, 12 Middle Eastern subjects, and 7 controls. A Principal Component Analysis of all expressed genes was used to ascertain differences between samples. Differentially expressed genes were identified using Cuffdiff and DESeq2 analyses, and identification of over-represented signaling pathways by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Although separated by geography and ancestry, key commonalities in the two patient transcriptomes speak of disease - intrinsic gene expression networks. We identified an overwhelming decrease in the expression of anti-oxidant genes regulated by NRF2 and those of the acute phase and tissue injury response pathways, in both patient groups. Concordantly, NRF2 immunofluorescence staining was decreased in patient corneas, while KEAP1, which helps to degrade NRF2, was increased. Diminished NRF2 signaling raises the possibility of NRF2 activators as future treatment strategies in keratoconus. The African American patient group showed increases in extracellular matrix transcripts that may be due to underlying profibrogenic changes in this group. Transcripts increased across all patient samples include Thrombospondin 2 (THBS2), encoding a matricellular protein, and cellular proteins, GAS1, CASR and OTOP2, and are promising biomarker candidates. Our approach of analyzing transcriptomic data from different populations and patient groups will help to develop signatures and biomarkers for keratoconus subtypes. Further, RNA sequence data on individual patients obtained from multiple studies may lead to a core keratoconus signature of deregulated genes and a better understanding of its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Shinde
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nan Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alka Mahale
- King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - George Maiti
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yassine Daoud
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles G Eberhart
- Ophthalmology and Oncology Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Azza Maktabi
- King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Albert S Jun
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Shukti Chakravarti
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pathology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the corneal wound healing response after small incision lenticule extraction surgery. METHODS Small incision lenticule extraction was performed in both eyes of 12 New Zealand White rabbits. The refractive spherical correction was set at -6.00 D. Two animals were analyzed at each time point (1 hour, 4 hours, 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, and 28 days). The corneas were evaluated using slit-lamp and in vivo confocal microscopy. After euthanatization, the corneal tissues were subjected to light microscopy, transferase 2'-Deoxyuridine 5'-Triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling assay, and immunofluorescence microscopy (CD11b, fibronectin, tenascin, alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA]). RESULTS The corneas did not show any opacity at any time point except at the side-cut incision. By contrast, there was obvious scar tissue at the side-cut incision. Scattered, hyperreflective spots were seen by confocal microscopy from 1 hour postoperatively. Transferase dUTP nick end labeling-positive keratocytes were abundant near the femtosecond laser incision area at 1 hour and reached a peak at 4 hours postoperatively and then decreased. Inflammatory cells migrated from the incision into the central cornea, and this process began 1 hour after surgery and peaked at 7 days. Extracellular matrix components were deposited at the beginning of day 1 postoperatively, and the distribution pattern differed between the central cornea and the incision site. α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts were only detected at the side-cut incision. CONCLUSIONS The scar tissue response in the peripheral cornea is related to the epithelium debridement. Inflammatory cells begin to be recruited by 1 hour after surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to implement antiinflammation interventions at a very early stage.
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15
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Shu DY, Lovicu FJ. Enhanced EGF receptor-signaling potentiates TGFβ-induced lens epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Exp Eye Res 2019; 185:107693. [PMID: 31201806 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The ocular lens is exposed to numerous growth factors that influence its behavior in diverse ways. While many of these, such as FGF and EGF promote normal cell behavior, TGFβ is unique in that it can also induce lens cell pathology, namely, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs) leading to fibrotic cataract formation. The present study explores how EGF impacts on TGFβ-induced EMT in the lens. LECs in explants prepared from 21-day-old Wistar rats were treated with either 200 pg/ml TGFβ2, 5 ng/ml EGF, or a combination of these, with or without a 2-h pre-treatment of an EGFR inhibitor (PD153035), MEK inhibitor (U0126) or Smad3 inhibitor (SIS3). Co-treatment of LECs with TGFβ2 and EGF, compared with TGFβ2 alone, resulted in a more pronounced elongation and transdifferentiation of the LECs into myofibroblastic cells, with higher protein levels of mesenchymal cell markers (α-SMA and tropomyosin). Combining EGF with a less potent lower dose of TGFβ2 (50 pg/ml) induced LECs to undergo EMT equivalent to treatment with a higher dose of TGFβ2 (200 pg/ml) within 5 days of culture. EGF alone, nor the lower dose of TGFβ2, were able to induce EMT in LECs within 5 days. Co-treatment of LECs with EGF and TGFβ2 induced a temporal shift in the phosphorylation levels of Smad2/3, ERK1/2 and EGFR and changed the expression patterns of downstream EMT target genes, compared to treatment of LECs with either growth factor alone. Inhibition of EGFR-signaling with PD153035 blocked the EMT response induced by co-treatment with EGF and TGFβ2. Taken together, our data demonstrate that EGF can potentiate TGFβ2 activity to enhance EMT in LECs, further highlighting the importance of EGFR-signaling in cataract formation. By directly blocking EGFR signaling, the activity of both EGF and TGFβ2 can be simultaneously reduced, thereby serving as a potential target for cataract prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Y Shu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Frank J Lovicu
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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16
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Epidermal Growth Factor Stimulates Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Receptor Type II Expression In Corneal Epithelial Cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8079. [PMID: 31147562 PMCID: PMC6542834 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42969-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) slowed corneal epithelial migration. Here we examine the effect of EGF on transforming growth factor-beta receptor II (TGF-βRII) in a corneal wound-healing model and primary human corneal epithelial cells (pHCE). Corneal debridement wounds were made and allowed to heal ± Tyrphostin AG1478 (EGFR inhibitor), and assayed for EGFR activation and EGFR and TGF-βRII localization. Primary HCE were treated with EGF ± U0126 (MEK inhibitor) and assayed for TGF-βRII expression. EGFR activation was maximal 15 minutes after wounding and localized in the migrating epithelial cells. TGF-βRII localization was also observed in the migrating epithelium and was reduced when EGFR was blocked. When pHCE were treated with EGF for 6 hours, the cells produced enhanced levels of TGF-βRII, which was blocked by U0126. Downstream signaling pathways of MEK (p38MAPK and ERK1/2MAPK) were then examined, and TGF-β1 and EGF were found to have differential effects on the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2, with TGF-β1 upregulating p-p38 but not pERK1/2 and EGF upregulating pERK1/2 but not p-p38. Taken together, these data indicate that EGF stimulates TGF-βRII through ERK1/2 and EGFR signaling, suggesting interplay between EGF- and TGF-β-signaling pathways during corneal wound repair.
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17
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Choi SI, Lee B, Woo JH, Jeong JB, Jun I, Kim EK. APP processing and metabolism in corneal fibroblasts and epithelium as a potential biomarker for Alzheimer's disease. Exp Eye Res 2019; 182:167-174. [PMID: 30930125 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) primarily affects the brain and is the most common form of dementia worldwide. Despite more than a century of research, there are still no early biomarkers for AD. It has been reported that AD affects the eye, which is more accessible for imaging than the brain; however, links with the cornea have not been evaluated. To investigate whether the cornea could be used to identify possible diagnostic indicators of AD, we analyzed the proteolytic processing and isoforms of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and evaluated the expression of AD-related genes and proteins in corneal fibroblasts from wild-type (WT) corneas and corneas from patients with granular corneal dystrophy type 2 (GCD2), which is related to amyloid formation in the cornea. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis was used to assess the expression of AD-related genes, i.e., APP, ADAM10, BACE1, BACE2, PSEN1, NCSTN, IDE, and NEP. RT-PCR and DNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that isoforms of APP770 and APP751, but not APP695, were expressed in corneal fibroblasts. Moreover, the mRNA ratio of APP770/APP751 isoforms was approximately 4:1. Western blot analysis also demonstrated the expression of a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10), beta-site APP-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), nicastrin, insulin degradation enzyme, and neprilysin in corneal fibroblasts. Among these targets, the levels of immature ADAM10 and BACE1 protein were significantly increased in GCD2 cells. The expression levels of APP, ADAM10, BACE1, and transforming growth factor-beta-induced protein (TGFBIp) were also detected by western blot in human corneal epithelium. We also investigated the effects of inhibition of the autophagy-lysosomal and ubiquitin-proteasomal proteolytic systems (UPS) on APP processing and metabolism. These pathway inhibitors accumulated APP, α-carboxy-terminal fragments (CTFs), β-CTFs, and the C-terminal APP intracellular domain (AICD) in corneal fibroblasts. Analysis of microRNAs (miRNAs) revealed that miR-9 and miR-181a negatively coregulated BACE1 and TGFBIp, which was directly associated with the pathogenesis of AD and GCD2, respectively. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that APP and BACE1 were distributed in corneal stroma cells, epithelial cells, and the retinal layer in mice. Collectively, we propose that the cornea, which is the transparent outermost layer of the eye and thus offers easy accessibility, could be used as a potential biomarker for AD diagnosis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Il Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Boram Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Hwan Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jang Bin Jeong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ikhyun Jun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eung Kweon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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18
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Desuppression of TGF-β signaling via nuclear c-Abl-mediated phosphorylation of TIF1γ/TRIM33 at Tyr-524, -610, and -1048. Oncogene 2018; 38:637-655. [PMID: 30177833 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0481-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Protein-tyrosine kinases regulate a broad range of intracellular processes occurring primarily just beneath the plasma membrane. With the greatest care to prevent dephosphorylation, we have shown that nuclear tyrosine phosphorylation regulates global chromatin structural states. However, the roles for tyrosine phosphorylation in the nucleus are poorly understood. Here we identify transcriptional intermediary factor 1-γ (TIF1γ/TRIM33/Ectodermin), which suppresses transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling through the association with Smad2/3 transcription factor, as a new nuclear substrate of c-Abl tyrosine kinase. Replacement of the three tyrosine residues Tyr-524, -610, and -1048 with phenylalanine (3YF) inhibits c-Abl-mediated phosphorylation of TIF1γ and enhances TIF1γ's association with Smad3. Importantly, knockdown-rescue experiments show that 3YF strengthens TIF1γ's ability to suppress TGF-β signaling. Intriguingly, activation of c-Abl by epidermal growth factor (EGF) induces desuppression of TGF-β signaling via enhancing the tyrosine phosphorylation level of TIF1γ. TGF-β together with EGF synergistically provokes desuppressive responses of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through tyrosine phosphorylation of TIF1γ. These results suggest that nuclear c-Abl-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of TIF1γ has a desuppressive role in TGF-β-Smad2/3 signaling.
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19
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Santos PPDA, Barroso KMA, Nonaka CFW, Pereira Pinto L, Souza LBD. Immunohistochemical expression of myofibroblasts, TGF-β1 and IFN-γ in oral fibrous lesions. Arch Oral Biol 2018; 93:80-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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20
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Gao ZH, Deng CJ, Xie YY, Guo XL, Wang QQ, Liu LZ, Lee WH, Li SA, Zhang Y. Pore‐forming toxin‐like protein complex expressed by frog promotes tissue repair. FASEB J 2018; 33:782-795. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800087r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hua Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
- First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University Kunming China
| | - Cheng-Jie Deng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
| | - Yue-Ying Xie
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
| | - Xiao-Long Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
| | - Qi-Quan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
| | - Ling-Zhen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
- Kunming College of Life ScienceUniversity of Chinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
| | - Wen-Hui Lee
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
| | - Sheng-An Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms Kunming China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan ProvinceKunming Institute of Zoology Kunming China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and GeneticsChinese Academy of Sciences Kunming China
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Kowtharapu BS, Prakasam RK, Murín R, Koczan D, Stahnke T, Wree A, Jünemann AGM, Stachs O. Role of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 (BMP7) in the Modulation of Corneal Stromal and Epithelial Cell Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051415. [PMID: 29747422 PMCID: PMC5983782 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the cornea, healing of the wounded avascular surface is an intricate process comprising the involvement of epithelial, stromal and neuronal cell interactions. These interactions result to the release of various growth factors that play prominent roles during corneal wound healing response. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are unique multi-functional potent growth factors of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. Treatment of corneal epithelial cells with substance P and nerve growth factor resulted to an increase in the expression of BMP7 mRNA. Since BMP7 is known to modulate the process of corneal wound healing, in this present study, we investigated the influence of exogenous rhBMP7 on human corneal epithelial cell and stromal cell (SFs) function. To obtain a high-fidelity expression profiling of activated biomarkers and pathways, transcriptome-wide gene-level expression profiling of epithelial cells in the presence of BMP7 was performed. Gene ontology analysis shows BMP7 stimulation activated TGF-β signaling and cell cycle pathways, whereas biological processes related to cell cycle, microtubule and intermediate filament cytoskeleton organization were significantly impacted in corneal epithelial cells. Scratch wound healing assay showed increased motility and migration of BMP7 treated epithelial cells. BMP7 stimulation studies show activation of MAPK cascade proteins in epithelial cells and SFs. Similarly, a difference in the expression of claudin, Zink finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 was observed along with phosphorylation levels of cofilin in epithelial cells. Stimulation of SFs with BMP7 activated them with increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin. In addition, an elevated phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor following BMP7 stimulation was also observed both in corneal epithelial cells and SFs. Based on our transcriptome analysis data on epithelial cells and the results obtained in SFs, we conclude that BMP7 contributes to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like responses and plays a role equivalent to TGF-β in the course of corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavani S Kowtharapu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Ruby Kala Prakasam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Radovan Murín
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia.
| | - Dirk Koczan
- Institute for Immunology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Thomas Stahnke
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Andreas Wree
- Institute for Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Anselm G M Jünemann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Oliver Stachs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
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22
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Miyagi H, Thomasy SM, Russell P, Murphy CJ. The role of hepatocyte growth factor in corneal wound healing. Exp Eye Res 2018; 166:49-55. [PMID: 29024692 PMCID: PMC5831200 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a glycoprotein produced by mesenchymal cells and operates as a key molecule for tissue generation and renewal. During corneal injury, HGF is primarily secreted by stromal fibroblasts and promotes epithelial wound healing in a paracrine manner. While this mesenchymal-epithelial interaction is well characterized in various organs and the cornea, the role of HGF in corneal stromal and endothelial wound healing is understudied. In addition, HGF has been shown to play an anti-fibrotic role by inhibiting myofibroblast generation and subsequent production of a disorganized extracellular matrix and tissue fibrosis. Therefore, HGF represents a potential therapeutic tool in numerous organs in which myofibroblasts are responsible for tissue scarring. Corneal fibrosis can be a devastating sequela of injury and can result in corneal opacification and retrocorneal membrane formation leading to severe vision loss. In this article, we concisely review the available literature regarding the role of HGF in corneal wound healing. We highlight the influence of HGF on cellular behaviors in each corneal layer. Additionally, we suggest the possibility that HGF may represent a therapeutic tool for interrupting dysregulated corneal repair processes to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Miyagi
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Minami-ku, Kasumi 1-2-3, Hiroshima, 7348551, Japan.
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Paul Russell
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
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Wound-Healing Studies in Cornea and Skin: Parallels, Differences and Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18061257. [PMID: 28604651 PMCID: PMC5486079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea and the skin are both organs that provide the outer barrier of the body. Both tissues have developed intrinsic mechanisms that protect the organism from a wide range of external threats, but at the same time also enable rapid restoration of tissue integrity and organ-specific function. The easy accessibility makes the skin an attractive model system to study tissue damage and repair. Findings from skin research have contributed to unravelling novel fundamental principles in regenerative biology and the repair of other epithelial-mesenchymal tissues, such as the cornea. Following barrier disruption, the influx of inflammatory cells, myofibroblast differentiation, extracellular matrix synthesis and scar formation present parallel repair mechanisms in cornea and skin wound healing. Yet, capillary sprouting, while pivotal in proper skin wound healing, is a process that is rather associated with pathological repair of the cornea. Understanding the parallels and differences of the cellular and molecular networks that coordinate the wound healing response in skin and cornea are likely of mutual importance for both organs with regard to the development of regenerative therapies and understanding of the disease pathologies that affect epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. Here, we review the principal events in corneal wound healing and the mechanisms to restore corneal transparency and barrier function. We also refer to skin repair mechanisms and their potential implications for regenerative processes in the cornea.
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Sidney LE, Hopkinson A. Corneal keratocyte transition to mesenchymal stem cell phenotype and reversal using serum-free medium supplemented with fibroblast growth factor-2, transforming growth factor-β3 and retinoic acid. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 12:e203-e215. [PMID: 27685949 DOI: 10.1002/term.2316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Keratocytes of the corneal limbal stroma can derive populations of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) when expanded in vitro. However, once a corneal MSC (cMSC) phenotype is achieved, regaining the keratocyte phenotype can be challenging, and there is no standardised differentiation medium. Here, we investigated the transition of keratocytes to cMSC and compared different supplements in their ability to return cMSC to a keratocyte phenotype. Immunofluorescence and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction demonstrated in vivo keratocyte expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1, CD34 and keratocan, but not any of the typical MSC markers (CD73, CD90, CD105). As the keratocytes were expanded in vitro, the phenotypic profile reversed and the cells expressed MSC markers but not keratocyte markers. Differentiating the cMSC back to a keratocyte phenotype using nonsupplemented, serum-free medium restored keratocyte markers but did not maintain cell viability or support corneal extracellular matrix production. Supplementing the differentiation medium with combinations of fibroblast growth factor-2, transforming growth factor-β3 and retinoic acid maintained viability, restored expression of CD34, aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 and keratocan, and facilitated production of abundant extracellular matrix as shown by immunofluorescent staining for collagen-I and lumican, alongside quantitative assays for collagen and glycosaminoglycan production. However, no differentiation medium was able to downregulate the expression of MSC markers in the 21-day culture period. This study shows that the keratocyte to MSC transition can be partially reversed using serum-free media and supplementation with retinoic acid, fibroblast growth factor-2 and transforming growth factor-β3 and can enhance this effect. This is relevant for development of corneal regenerative strategies that require the production of a keratocyte phenotype. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Sidney
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Andrew Hopkinson
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, University of Nottingham, UK
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Santos PPDA, Nonaka CFW, Freitas RDA, Pereira Pinto L, Souza LBD. Immunohistochemical analysis of myofibroblasts, TGF-β1, and IFN-γ in epithelial odontogenic lesions. J Oral Pathol Med 2016; 46:365-370. [DOI: 10.1111/jop.12494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Paulo de Andrade Santos
- Department of Morphology; Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte; Natal RN Brazil
- Oral Pathology Post Graduate Program; Department of Dentistry; Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte; Natal RN Brazil
| | | | - Roseana de Almeida Freitas
- Oral Pathology Post Graduate Program; Department of Dentistry; Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte; Natal RN Brazil
| | - Leão Pereira Pinto
- Oral Pathology Post Graduate Program; Department of Dentistry; Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte; Natal RN Brazil
| | - Lélia Batista de Souza
- Oral Pathology Post Graduate Program; Department of Dentistry; Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte; Natal RN Brazil
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Kumar P, Pandit A, Zeugolis DI. Progress in Corneal Stromal Repair: From Tissue Grafts and Biomaterials to Modular Supramolecular Tissue-Like Assemblies. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2016; 28:5381-5399. [PMID: 27028373 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201503986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Corneal injuries and degenerative conditions have major socioeconomic consequences, given that in most cases, they result in blindness. In the quest of the ideal therapy, tissue grafts, biomaterials, and modular engineering approaches are under intense investigation. Herein, advancements and shortfalls are reviewed and future perspectives for these therapeutic strategies discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod Kumar
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
- Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biosciences Research Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
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RhoA Ambivalently Controls Prominent Myofibroblast Characteritics by Involving Distinct Signaling Routes. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137519. [PMID: 26448568 PMCID: PMC4598021 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction RhoA has been shown to be beneficial in cardiac disease models when overexpressed in cardiomyocytes, whereas its role in cardiac fibroblasts (CF) is still poorly understood. During cardiac remodeling CF undergo a transition towards a myofibroblast phenotype thereby showing an increased proliferation and migration rate. Both processes involve the remodeling of the cytoskeleton. Since RhoA is known to be a major regulator of the cytoskeleton, we analyzed its role in CF and its effect on myofibroblast characteristics in 2 D and 3D models. Results Downregulation of RhoA was shown to strongly affect the actin cytoskeleton. It decreased the myofibroblast marker α-sm-actin, but increased certain fibrosis-associated factors like TGF-β and collagens. Also, the detailed analysis of CTGF expression demonstrated that the outcome of RhoA signaling strongly depends on the involved stimulus. Furthermore, we show that proliferation of myofibroblasts rely on RhoA and tubulin acetylation. In assays accessing three different types of migration, we demonstrate that RhoA/ROCK/Dia1 are important for 2D migration and the repression of RhoA and Dia1 signaling accelerates 3D migration. Finally, we show that a downregulation of RhoA in CF impacts the viscoelastic and contractile properties of engineered tissues. Conclusion RhoA positively and negatively influences myofibroblast characteristics by differential signaling cascades and depending on environmental conditions. These include gene expression, migration and proliferation. Reduction of RhoA leads to an increased viscoelasticity and a decrease in contractile force in engineered cardiac tissue.
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Kumar V, Ali MJ, Ramachandran C. Effect of mitomycin-C on contraction and migration of human nasal mucosa fibroblasts: implications in dacryocystorhinostomy. Br J Ophthalmol 2015; 99:1295-300. [DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2014-306516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Abidin FZ, Gouveia RM, Connon CJ. Application of retinoic acid improves form and function of tissue engineered corneal construct. Organogenesis 2015; 11:122-36. [PMID: 26496651 PMCID: PMC4879898 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2015.1093267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid has recently been shown to control the phenotype and extracellular matrix composition of corneal stromal cells cultured in vitro as monolayers. This study set out to investigate the effects of retinoic acid on human corneal keratocytes within a 3D environment. Human corneal keratocytes were encapsulated in collagen gels, which were subsequently compressed under load, and cultured in serum-free media supplemented with 10 µM retinoic acid or DMSO vehicle for 30 days. Cell proliferation was quantified on selected days, while the expression of several important keratocytes markers was evaluated at day 30 using RT-PCR and immunoblotting. The weight and size of the collagen constructs were measured before and after hydration and contraction analyses. Retinoic acid enhanced keratocyte proliferation until day 30, whereas cells in control culture conditions showed reduced numbers after day 21. Both gene and protein expressions of keratocyte-characteristic proteoglycans (keratocan, lumican and decorin), corneal crystallins and collagen type I and V were significantly increased following retinoic acid supplementation. Retinoic acid also significantly reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteases 1, 3 and 9 while not increasing α-smooth muscle actin and fibronectin expression. Furthermore, these effects were also correlated with the ability of retinoic acid to significantly inhibit the contractility of keratocytes while allowing the build-up of corneal stromal extracellular matrix within the 3D constructs. Thus, retinoic acid supplementation represents a promising strategy to improve the phenotype of 3D-cultured keratocytes, and their usefulness as a model of corneal stroma for corneal biology and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadhilah Z Abidin
- Institute of Genetic Medicine; Newcastle University; Center for Life; Newcastle, UK
| | - Ricardo M Gouveia
- Institute of Genetic Medicine; Newcastle University; Center for Life; Newcastle, UK
| | - Che J Connon
- Institute of Genetic Medicine; Newcastle University; Center for Life; Newcastle, UK
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Yam GHF, Yusoff NZBM, Kadaba A, Tian D, Myint HH, Beuerman RW, Zhou L, Mehta JS. Ex Vivo Propagation of Human Corneal Stromal "Activated Keratocytes" for Tissue Engineering. Cell Transplant 2014; 24:1845-61. [PMID: 25291523 DOI: 10.3727/096368914x685069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus is a corneal disorder characterized by a thinning of stromal tissue, and the affected patients have induced astigmatism and visual impairment. It is associated with a loss of corneal stromal keratocytes (CSKs). Hence, reconstructing stromal tissue with autologous CSK replacement can be a viable alternative to corneal transplantation, which is restricted by the global donor material shortage and graft rejection. Human CSKs are normally quiescent and express unique markers, like aldehyde dehydrogenases and keratocan. In serum culture, they proliferate, but lose their characteristic phenotype and become stromal fibroblasts. Here we report a novel culture cocktail to ex vivo propagate and maintain CSKs. Primary human CSKs were obtained from adult donors and cultured with soluble human amnion stromal extract (ASE), rho-associated coiled-coil-forming protein serine/threonine kinase inhibitor Y-27632, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (collectively named as ERI). Protein profiling using mass spectrometry followed by MetaCore™ pathway analysis predicted that ASE proteins might participate in transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling and fibroblast development, cell adhesion, extracellular matrix remodeling, and immune response. In culture with 0.5% fetal bovine serum and ERI, the population of "activated keratocytes" was expanded. They had much lowered expression of both keratocyte and fibroblast markers, suppressed TGF-β-mediated Smad2/3 activation, and lacked fibroblast-mediated collagen contractibility. These "activated keratoctyes" could be propagated for six to eight passages ex vivo, and they regained CSK-specific dendritic morphology and gene marker expression, including aldehyde dehydrogenases, lumican, and keratocan biosynthesis, expression, and secretion when returned to serum-depleted ERI condition. This novel cocktail maintained human CSKs in both adherent and suspension cultures with proper keratocyte features and without the transformation to stromal fibroblasts. Thus, human CSKs can be ex vivo propagated as transient "activated keratocytes." This could provide sufficient number of genuine CSKs for corneal tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Hin-Fai Yam
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
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Foster J, Wu WH, Scott SG, Bassi M, Mohan D, Daoud Y, Stark WJ, Jun AS, Chakravarti S. Transforming growth factor β and insulin signal changes in stromal fibroblasts of individual keratoconus patients. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106556. [PMID: 25247416 PMCID: PMC4172437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a complex thinning disease of the cornea that often requires transplantation. The underlying pathogenic molecular changes in this disease are poorly understood. Earlier studies reported oxidative stress, metabolic dysfunctions and accelerated death of stromal keratocytes in keratoconus (KC) patients. Utilizing mass spectrometry we found reduced stromal extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in KC, suggesting ECM-regulatory changes that may be due to altered TGFβ signals. Here we investigated properties of stromal cells from donor (DN) and KC corneas grown as fibroblasts in serum containing DMEM: F12 or in serum-free medium containing insulin, transferrin, selenium (ITS). Phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 of the canonical TGFβ pathway, was high in serum-starved DN and KC fibroblast protein extracts, but pSMAD1/5/8 low at base line, was induced within 30 minutes of TGFβ1 stimulation, more so in KC than DN, suggesting a novel TGFβ1-SMAD1/5/8 axis in the cornea, that may be altered in KC. The serine/threonine kinases AKT, known to regulate proliferation, survival and biosynthetic activities of cells, were poorly activated in KC fibroblasts in high glucose media. Concordantly, alcohol dehydrogenase 1 (ADH1), an indicator of increased glucose uptake and metabolism, was reduced in KC compared to DN fibroblasts. By contrast, in low glucose (5.5 mM, normoglycemic) serum-free DMEM and ITS, cell survival and pAKT levels were comparable in KC and DN cells. Therefore, high glucose combined with serum-deprivation presents some cellular stress difficult to overcome by the KC stromal cells. Our study provides molecular insights into AKT and TGFβ signal changes in KC, and a mechanism for functional studies of stromal cells from KC corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Foster
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Wai-Hong Wu
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sherri-Gae Scott
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mehak Bassi
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Mohan
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yassine Daoud
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Walter J. Stark
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Albert S. Jun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Shukti Chakravarti
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Imaizumi M, Sato Y, Yang DT, Thibeault SL. In vitro epithelial differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells for vocal fold tissue engineering. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2014; 122:737-47. [PMID: 24592576 DOI: 10.1177/000348941312201203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We determined the feasibility and optimization of differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPS) into nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelial cells for vocal fold engineering. METHODS hiPS were cultured and assessed for differentiation in 3 conditions: a 3-dimensional (3D) hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel scaffold, a 3D HA hydrogel scaffold with epidermal growth factor (EGF), and a 3D HA hydrogel scaffold cocultured with human vocal fold fibroblasts (hVFF). After 1, 2, and 4 weeks of cultivation, hiPS were selected for histology, immunohistochemistry, and/or transcript expression analysis. RESULTS At 4 weeks, hiPS cultivated with hVFF or with EGF had significantly decreased levels of Oct 3/4, indicating loss of pluripotency. Immunofluorescence revealed the presence of pancytokeratin and of cytokeratin (CK) 13 and 14 epithelial-associated proteins at 4 weeks after cultivation in hiPS EGF and hiPS hVFF cultures. The transcript expression level of CK14 was significantly increased for hiPS hVFF cultures only and was measured concomitantly with cell morphology that was clearly cohesive and displayed a degree of nuclear polarity suggestive of epithelial differentiation. CONCLUSIONS We found that hiPS cultivated in 3D HA hydrogel with hVFF demonstrated the most robust conversion evidence to date of epithelial differentiation. Further work is necessary to focus on amplification of these progenitors for application in vocal fold regenerative biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyoshi Imaizumi
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Yuka Sato
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David T Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Susan L Thibeault
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Milani BY, Milani FY, Park DW, Namavari A, Shah J, Amirjamshidi H, Ying H, Djalilian AR. Rapamycin inhibits the production of myofibroblasts and reduces corneal scarring after photorefractive keratectomy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2013; 54:7424-30. [PMID: 24106124 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.13-12674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal stromal scarring partly involves the production of corneal myofibroblasts. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of rapamycin (an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR] pathway) on myofibroblast formation in vitro and in-vivo. METHODS Human corneal fibroblasts were grown in culture and transformed into myofibroblasts using TGF-β (2 ng/mL). The phosphorylation (activation) of the mTOR pathway was examined by immunoblotting. Cell proliferation with and without rapamycin was examined by thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and Ki67 staining. The expression of the myofibroblast differentiation marker smooth muscle actin (SMA) was examined by immunostaining and immunoblotting. The functional effects of rapamycin were measured using a gel contraction assay. For in vivo studies, 140 μm laser ablation was performed on rabbit corneas followed by subconjunctival rapamycin or vehicle. Corneal haze development was graded at 4 weeks, while the expression of myofibroblast markers was examined by immunostaining and immunoblotting. RESULTS The TGF-β activated the mTOR pathway with peak phosphorylation at 2 to 4 hours. Treatment of corneal fibroblasts with rapamycin reduced their proliferation by 46% compared to control. Rapamycin significantly inhibited TGF-β-induced expression of myofibroblast markers (17.2% SMA positive cells with rapamycin compared to 69.0% in control). Rapamycin also significantly inhibited TGF-β-induced collagen gel contraction. In the rabbit eyes treated with rapamycin, corneal haze development was significantly less compared to controls (0.75 ± 0.4 vs. 2.17 ± 0.7). CONCLUSIONS Rapamycin appears to inhibit proliferation and differentiation of corneal myofibroblasts and, thus, may provide an effective therapeutic measure for preventing corneal scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrad Y Milani
- Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Chicago, Illinois
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Cheung IM, McGhee CN, Sherwin T. Deficient repair regulatory response to injury in keratoconic stromal cells. Clin Exp Optom 2013; 97:234-9. [PMID: 24147544 DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keratoconus manifests as a conical protrusion of the cornea and is characterised by stromal thinning. This causes debilitating visual impairment, which may necessitate corneal transplantation. Hypothetically, many of the pathological features in keratoconus may be manifestations of defects in wound healing; however, as the pathobiology remains unclear, therapeutic targets related to disease mechanisms are currently lacking. This study investigated the protein expression of cytokines which may control stromal wound healing and the effect of an induced secondary injury (SI) on stromal cells from ex vivo human keratoconus and control corneas. METHODS Total protein was extracted from stromal cells from human keratoconic and non-keratoconic central corneas (n = 12) with (+SI) and without (-SI) an ex vivo corneal incision wound. The levels of interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1α), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), nerve growth factor beta (β-NGF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) were quantified using chemiluminescence-based immunoarrays. RESULTS In stromal cells from -SI keratoconic corneas (compared with -SI normal corneas), the levels of IL-1α, IGF-1, TNF-α and TGF-β1 were increased and the levels of HGF and β-NGF were reduced. These alterations were also observed in +SI non-keratoconic corneas (compared with -SI non-keratoconic corneas). In stromal cells from +SI keratoconic corneas (compared with -SI keratoconic corneas), the quantities of IL-1α, FGF-2, TNF-a, EGF, TGF-a1 and PDGF were decreased. CONCLUSION The repair-modulating milieu in keratoconic corneas appears comparable to that in wounded normal corneas. Moreover, wounded keratoconic corneas may be less capable of orchestrating a normal reparative response. These novel findings may improve our understanding of the pathobiology and may facilitate the identification of potential biological targets and therapeutic agents to advance the clinical management of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella My Cheung
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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FENG WENJING, XU XIZHEN, ZHAO GANG, LI GENG, LIU TIANTIAN, ZHAO JUNJIE, DONG RUOLAN, WANG DAOWEN, TU LING. EETs and CYP2J2 inhibit TNF-α-induced apoptosis in pulmonary artery endothelial cells and TGF-β1-induced migration in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. Int J Mol Med 2013; 32:685-93. [DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2013.1435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Vivar R, Humeres C, Ayala P, Olmedo I, Catalán M, García L, Lavandero S, Díaz-Araya G. TGF-β1 prevents simulated ischemia/reperfusion-induced cardiac fibroblast apoptosis by activation of both canonical and non-canonical signaling pathways. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2013; 1832:754-62. [PMID: 23416528 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2013.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Revised: 12/30/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Ischemia/reperfusion injury is a major cause of myocardial death. In the heart, cardiac fibroblasts play a critical role in healing post myocardial infarction. TGF-β1 has shown cardioprotective effects in cardiac damage; however, if TGF-β1 can prevent cardiac fibroblast death triggered by ischemia/reperfusion is unknown. Therefore, we test this hypothesis, and whether the canonical and/or non-canonical TGF-β1 signaling pathways are involved in this protective effect. Cultured rat cardiac fibroblasts were subjected to simulated ischemia/reperfusion. Cell viability was analyzed by trypan blue exclusion and propidium iodide by flow cytometry. The processing of procaspases 8, 9 and 3 to their active forms was assessed by Western blot, whereas subG1 population was evaluated by flow cytometry. Levels of total and phosphorylated forms of ERK1/2, Akt and Smad2/3 were determined by Western blot. The role of these signaling pathways on the protective effect of TGF-β1 was studied using specific chemical inhibitors. Simulated ischemia over 8h triggers a significant cardiac fibroblast death, which increased by reperfusion, with apoptosis actively involved. These effects were only prevented by the addition of TGF-β1 during reperfusion. TGF-β1 pretreatment increased the levels of phosphorylated forms of ERK1/2, Akt and Smad2/3. The inhibition of ERK1/2, Akt and Smad3 also blocked the preventive effects of TGF-β1 on cardiac fibroblast apoptosis induced by simulated ischemia/reperfusion. Overall, our data suggest that TGF-β1 prevents cardiac fibroblast apoptosis induced by simulated ischemia-reperfusion through the canonical (Smad3) and non canonical (ERK1/2 and Akt) signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Vivar
- Centro Estudios Moleculares de la Célula, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas/Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Chile
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Schrader S, Tuft SJ, Beaconsfield M, Borrelli M, Geerling G, Daniels JT. Evaluation of Human MRC-5 Cells as a Feeder Layer in a Xenobiotic-Free Culture System for Conjunctival Epithelial Progenitor Cells. Curr Eye Res 2012; 37:1067-74. [DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2012.713155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Holland S, Morck D, Schultz C. Treatment of corneal defects with delayed re-epithelization with a medical device/drug delivery system for epidermal growth factor. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2012; 40:662-8. [PMID: 22429860 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2012.02795.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human recombinant epidermal growth factor has been shown to be effective in corneal healing when applied topically. The purpose of this preliminary study was to observe whether re-epithelization occurred in patients with non-healing corneal defects treated with a bandage contact lenses impregnated with epidermal growth factor. DESIGN Prospective non-comparative interventional case series study. Epidermal growth factor-impregnated bandage contact lenses (created through passive transfer of epidermal growth factor into hydrogel contact lenses of high water content) were used to passively release epidermal growth factor to the corneal surface of the damaged eye. PARTICIPANTS Nine clinical patients who presented for tertiary care at the University of British Columbia Eye Care Centre at Vancouver General Hospital. METHODS All patients had clinically significant delayed corneal re-epithelization that had not healed despite standard treatments including conventional bandage contact lenses and topical medications. Causes of delayed re-epithelization varied from corneal injuries (e.g. alkali burns, recurrent corneal erosions) to recent corneal surgery (photorefractive keratectomy, phototherapeutic keratectomy, penetrating keratoplasty). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Closure of wounds. RESULTS Re-epithelialization was seen in the corneas of seven of the nine patients within 8 days after insertion of the epidermal growth factor-treated bandage contact lens into the damaged eye. The drug delivery system appeared to be most effective in non-inflamed corneas. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary results indicate that bandage contact lenses impregnated with epidermal growth factor may be helpful in promoting re-epithelization in corneas with delayed healing. Efficacy appears to be reduced for vascularized and significantly inflamed corneas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Holland
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia Eye Care Centre, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia
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Lou-Bonafonte JM, Bonafonte-Marquez E, Bonafonte-Royo S, Martínez-Carpio PA. Posology, efficacy, and safety of epidermal growth factor eye drops in 305 patients: logistic regression and group-wise odds of published data. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2012; 28:467-72. [PMID: 22537292 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2011.0236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this article is to investigate clinical research on indications, posology, efficacy, and safety of epidermal growth factor (EGF) eye drops in the treatment of some human corneal disorders. Methods used include systematic search and selection of series of cases and clinical trials in Medline database up to January 2012, kappa index (K) to validate retrieval information, cumulative Mantel-Haenszel-stratified meta-analysis, 2×2 contingency table of randomized EGF-vehicle-controlled treated groups, and statistical program SPSSv12. Our results indicate that EGF eye drops appear to be a very effective treatment of acute heterogeneous corneal diseases, without significant adverse effects, with a 86.8% clinical efficacy reported by authors, a 98% (P<0.05) probabilistic expected efficacy, and 51.3 (17.4-148.7 confidence interval 95%; P<0.05) odds ratio EGF/vehicle. However, clinical trials are scarce, with low sample sizes and serious inconsistencies in EGF posology. EGF eye drops (50-1,000 ng, 2-3 times/day) could be a useful treatment for promoting postoperative refractive surgery, reversing cases of keratopathy secondary to systematic EGF receptor inhibitors, diabetic keratopathy, and other corneal and conjunctival disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Lou-Bonafonte
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, FCCSYD (Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y del Deporte), University of Zaragoza, Spain.
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Petroll WM, Lakshman N, Ma L. Experimental models for investigating intra-stromal migration of corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. J Funct Biomater 2012; 3:183-98. [PMID: 23482859 PMCID: PMC3589802 DOI: 10.3390/jfb3010183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2012] [Revised: 03/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Following laser vision correction, corneal keratocytes must repopulate areas of cell loss by migrating through the intact corneal stroma, and this can impact corneal shape and transparency. In this study, we evaluate 3D culture models for simulating this process in vitro. Buttons (8 mm diameter) were first punched out of keratocyte populated compressed collagen matrices, exposed to a 3mm diameter freeze injury, and cultured in serum-free media (basal media) or media supplemented with 10% FBS, TGFβ1 or PDGF BB. Following freeze injury, a region of cell death was observed in the center of the constructs. Although cells readily migrated on top of the matrices to cover the wound area, a limited amount of cell migration was observed within the constructs. We next developed a novel "sandwich" model, which better mimics the native lamellar architecture of the cornea. Using this model, significant migration was observed under all conditions studied. In both models, cells in TGFβ and 10% FBS developed stress fibers; whereas cells in PDGF were more dendritic. PDGF stimulated the most inter-lamellar migration in the sandwich construct. Overall, these models provide insights into the complex interplay between growth factors, cell mechanical phenotypes and the structural properties of the ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Matthew Petroll
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; (W.P.); (N.L.); (L.M.)
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He J, Bazan HEP. Mapping the nerve architecture of diabetic human corneas. Ophthalmology 2012; 119:956-64. [PMID: 22325488 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2011.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2011] [Revised: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the entire human corneal nerve architecture of donors with different durations of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). DESIGN Experimental study. PARTICIPANTS AND CONTROLS Sixteen fresh human eyes from 8 diabetic donors (aged 43-66 years, with IDDM for 2-17 years) and 12 eyes from 6 normal donors (aged from 44-67 years) were obtained from the National Disease Research Interchange (NDRI). METHODS After fixation, corneas were stained with mouse monoclonal anti-β-Tubulin III antibody, and images were acquired to build a whole view of the corneal nerve architecture. The same corneas were used for both whole-mount and cross-section examination. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Corneal epithelial nerve density was calculated on the basis of the whole-mount view of the central area. The number of stromal nerves was calculated by counting the nerve trunks at the corneoscleral limbus of the entire cornea. Differences between diabetic and normal corneas in epithelial nerve densities and main stromal nerve numbers were compared by paired-samples t test. RESULTS The diabetic eyes presented numerous neuropathies in areas where the epithelial nerve bundles emerged. A striking pathologic change was the presence of abundant nerve fiber loops in the stroma. These loops seemed to form by resistance presented by the basement membrane, which may prevent penetration of stromal nerve branches into epithelia. There was no difference in the numbers of main stromal nerve trunks between corneas from diabetic and normal donors, but there was a significant decrease in central epithelial nerve density in the diabetic corneas. We did not find an age effect on this decrease. Instead, it was significantly affected by 5 or more years of IDDM. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to show an entire view of the nerve architecture in human diabetic corneas. The decreased epithelial nerve density may result from the abnormalities of stromal nerve architecture and is affected by 5 or more years of IDDM. Although compensation for some nerve regeneration takes place, the alterations in the stromal nerves can explain the poor healing and persistent epithelial defects seen in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiucheng He
- Department of Ophthalmology Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Scott SG, Jun AS, Chakravarti S. Sphere formation from corneal keratocytes and phenotype specific markers. Exp Eye Res 2011; 93:898-905. [PMID: 22032988 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2011.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2011] [Revised: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The keratocytes are specialized mesenchymal cells that produce and maintain the extracellular matrix of the corneal stroma. With a typical dendritic and flattened appearance, these cells can morph into fibroblasts and myofibroblasts upon injury, and produce abnormal or fibrotic extracellular matrices detrimental to corneal transparency. Insights into mechanisms that regulate these phenotypic switches and optimal culture conditions that preserve the keratocyte phenotype are important for tissue engineering of the corneal stroma. Like other cell types with self-renewing capacity, keratocytes can form spheres in culture. Here we investigated human and bovine keratocytes with respect to their sphere forming capabilities, and sought to identify potentially distinguishing markers for the keratocyte and fibroblast phenotypes. Keratocytes, isolated from bovine and human corneas, cultured in serum-free medium supplemented with insulin, selenium and transferrin, assumed typical keratocyte morphology, converted to fibroblasts in serum-containing medium and reverted to keratocytes after serum-deprivation. The bovine keratocytes produced spheres under adherent or low attachment conditions, while the human keratocytes produced spheres under low attachment conditions only. The primary keratocytes and fibroblasts expressed vimentin, confirming their mesenchymal origin. Keratocan, considered to be a marker for keratocytes, was also detected in early passage bovine fibroblasts. BMP3 was expressed in keratocytes and keratocyte-derived spheres, while cadherin 5 in keratocytes only, suggesting these as potential keratocyte markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri-Gae Scott
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Zainal Abidin F, Hui CK, Luan NS, Mohd Ramli ES, Hun LT, Abd Ghafar N. Effects of edible bird's nest (EBN) on cultured rabbit corneal keratocytes. Altern Ther Health Med 2011; 11:94. [PMID: 21992551 PMCID: PMC3213154 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-11-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background There has been no effective treatment or agent that is available for corneal injury in promoting corneal wound healing. Previous studies on edible bird's nest extract (EBN) had reported the presence of hormone-like substance; avian epidermal growth factor that could stimulate cell division and enhance regeneration. This study aimed to investigate the effects of EBN on corneal keratocytes proliferative capacity and phenotypical changes. Methods Corneal keratocytes from six New Zealand White Rabbits were isolated and cultured until Passage 1. The proliferative effects of EBN on corneal keratocytes were determined by MTT assay in serum-containing medium (FDS) and serum-free medium (FD). Keratocytes phenotypical changes were morphologically assessed and gene expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), collagen type 1 and lumican were determined through RT-PCR. Results The highest cell proliferation was observed when both media were supplemented with 0.05% and 0.1% EBN. Cell proliferation was also consistently higher in FDS compared to FD. Both phase contrast micrographs and gene expression analysis confirmed the corneal keratocytes retained their phenotypes with the addition of EBN. Conclusions These results suggested that low concentration of EBN could synergistically induce cell proliferation, especially in serum-containing medium. This could be a novel breakthrough as both cell proliferation and functional maintenance are important during corneal wound healing. The in vitro test is considered as a crucial first step for nutri-pharmaceutical formation of EBN-based eye drops before in vivo application.
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Kenchegowda S, Bazan NG, Bazan HEP. EGF stimulates lipoxin A4 synthesis and modulates repair in corneal epithelial cells through ERK and p38 activation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:2240-9. [PMID: 21220563 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-6199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on lipoxin A4 (LXA4) synthesis and how it regulates corneal epithelial wound healing through mitogen-activated kinases, extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and p38. METHODS Rabbit corneal epithelial (RCE) cells were stimulated with EGF or LXA4 at different times. In some experiments, cells were pretreated with 12/15-lipoxygenase (12/15-LOX) inhibitor cinnamyl-3,4-dihydroxy-α-cyanocinnamate (CDC), ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, or p38 inhibitor SB203580. For wound-healing experiments, corneas from rabbits and 12/15-LOX (ALOX-15)-deficient mice were injured by epithelial removal and maintained in organ culture in the presence of EGF or LXA4 with or without inhibitors. Epithelial cell proliferation was assayed by immunofluorescence with Ki67 and cell counting. Scrape migration assays were performed in 6-well plates. LXA4 synthesis was analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. RESULTS EGF activated ERK1/2 and p38 in RCE cells in a sustained manner. EGF activation was partially inhibited by CDC. EGF and LXA4 increased corneal epithelial wound closure. ERK1/2 inhibition with PD98059 or p38 with SB203580 blocked the effect of LXA4 on wound healing. ALOX-15 corneas displayed inhibition of epithelial wound closure promoted by EGF, whereas LXA4 stimulation induced similar wound closure in wild-type and knockout mice. EGF-stimulated LXA4 synthesis in RCE cells was inhibited by CDC or the EGF receptor antagonist AG1478. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that EGF-stimulated epithelial wound healing is partially mediated through a 12/15-LOX-LXA4 pathway, and activation of ERK1/2 and p38 is required for LXA4 action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachidananda Kenchegowda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, 2020 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Pioglitazone inhibits TGFβ induced keratocyte transformation to myofibroblast and extracellular matrix production. Mol Biol Rep 2010; 38:4501-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-010-0581-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2010] [Accepted: 11/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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He J, Eastlack JP, Bazan HEP. The induction of an angiogenic response in corneal myofibroblasts by platelet-activating factor (PAF). Curr Eye Res 2010; 35:1063-71. [PMID: 20961214 DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2010.513797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the exact mechanisms underlying corneal neovascularization remain unclear, cytokines and growth factors play an important role in their development. We have shown previously that the inflammatory mediator platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a potent inducer of corneal neovascularization in vivo. In this study, we investigate the role of stromal myofibroblasts in neovascularization and the effect of PAF on this process. METHODS Myofibroblasts were obtained from rabbit corneal keratocytes and identified with anti-α-SMA antibody. Cells were treated with PAF (100 nM) for 24 hr. In some experiments, cells were pre-treated with the PAF antagonist LAU-0901 (150 nM). Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) was examined by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting. To study the effect of myofibroblasts on vessel formation in vitro, Vybrant(®) CM-DiI labeled human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured on myofibroblasts in a thin layer of collagen gel. CD31 was used as the cell marker of HUVEC. RESULTS VEGF and TSP-1 were not detectable in keratocytes, but they were positively stained in myofibroblasts. PAF induced a significant increase in VEGF expression and a decrease in TSP-1 expression. These changes were inhibited in the presence of LAU-0901. HUVECs co-cultured with corneal myofibroblasts formed a typical structure of vessel-like tubes within 1 week. The addition of PAF to the medium increased HUVEC-induced vessel-like tube formation, which was abolished by LAU-0901. Addition of anti-VEGF antibody to the medium completely prevented the formation of vessel-like tubes. CONCLUSION We provide evidence for the role of stromal myofibroblasts in the corneal neovascularization process. By enhancing VEGF production and decreasing TSP-1 production in myofibroblasts, PAF augments the angiogenic response. The PAF antagonist LAU-0901 could represent a new therapeutic venue for inhibiting corneal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiucheng He
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence and the Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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Vered M, Grinstein-Koren O, Reiter S, Allon I, Dayan D. The effect of desalivation on the malignant transformation of the tongue epithelium and associated stromal myofibroblasts in a rat 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide-induced carcinogenesis model. Int J Exp Pathol 2010; 91:314-23. [PMID: 20353426 PMCID: PMC2962890 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2010.00704.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2009] [Accepted: 12/16/2009] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to analyse desalivated rat tongue epithelium for histopathological changes, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and epithelium-associated stromal myofibroblasts [SMF; alpha-smooth muscle actin (alphaSMA)] following 0.001% 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO) administration in drinking water. Results were compared with those of identically treated but salivated specimens. 4NQO was administered for 7, 14, 22 and 28 weeks. Tongue length was divided into anterior, middle and posterior 'thirds'. The histopathological changes per 'third' were scored as normal epithelium, hyperplasia, dysplasia, carcinoma-in-situ, and superficial and invasive carcinoma. The PCNA and alphaSMA stains were assessed by a point-counting method. At all time points, the histopathological changes in the anterior and middle thirds were higher in the desalivated than in the salivated group (P < 0.05) but almost identical in the posterior third (P > 0.05). PCNA scores were significantly lower in the desalivated vs. the salivated group at almost all time points and tongue thirds (P < 0.05). SMF were usually scarce in both groups, but there was a significant surge in the posterior third at 28 weeks: the score in the desalivated group was only about one-half that of the salivated group (P < 0.05). The absence of saliva seems to promote malignant transformation of the tongue epithelium in the early stages. PCNA cannot be regarded as a marker of proliferation and probably contributes to this process by other mechanisms. Emergence of SMF seems to be highly dependent on growth factors from saliva in addition to factors from cancerous cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Vered
- Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Contact lenses as a drug delivery device for epidermal growth factor in the treatment of ocular wounds. Clin Exp Optom 2010; 93:61-5. [PMID: 20406255 DOI: 10.1111/j.1444-0938.2010.00459.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This work was conducted to investigate the uptake and release of epidermal growth factor (EGF) from hydrogel contact lenses and to determine whether the released protein would be therapeutically active in a rabbit corneal epithelial defect model of ocular trauma, prior to use in humans. METHODS The uptake and release of EGF from hydrogel contact lens materials were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Contact lenses composed of vasurfilcon A or lotrafilcon A (containing silicone) were incubated in a source solution containing 0.4 ppm EGF for seven hours. To determine the kinetics of drug uptake into the contact lens matrix, drug concentration in the source solution was measured at zero, one, 60, 240 and 420 minutes. To determine the kinetics of release, loaded contact lenses were immersed in a recipient solution of phosphate-buffered saline. Therapeutic activity in vivo was investigated by placing prepared lenses on the surface of abraded corneas of New Zealand White rabbits, with abraded corneas of contralateral eyes used as controls. Control eyes were treated with contact lenses placed in saline for injection. Wound closure was assessed hourly. RESULTS Uptake and release of EGF were demonstrated for vasurfilcon A but not lotrafilcon A contact lens materials. The retention time of EGF released from vasurfilcon A contact lenses was similar to control EGF not exposed to contact lens polymers. The greatest adsorption of EGF into the lens material occurred within approximately 120 minutes, with a flattening of the rate of uptake thereafter. Abraded eyes in rabbits showed a significantly higher overall healing rate for EGF-treated contact lenses compared with control eyes (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS EGF can be delivered from some but not all hydrogel materials. Lens materials composed of silicone may not be useful for delivering EGF to the eye. EGF-treated contact lenses may be a useful device to facilitate healing of ocular wounds.
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He J, Bazan HEP. Omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye and corneal nerve regeneration after refractive surgery. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2010; 82:319-25. [PMID: 20202804 PMCID: PMC2856794 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2010.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Dry eye (DE) is a multifactorial condition that affects the surface of the eye and induces an inflammatory response. Corneal nerves play an important role in the maintenance of a healthy ocular surface. Here we review corneal structure, nerve architecture, DE conditions, and nerve regeneration following corneal surgery and discuss how n-3 fatty acids affect the health of the cornea. Animal studies show that resolvins, compounds derived from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), increase tear volume and decrease inflammation induced by DE. After corneal surgery in rabbits, treatment with nerve growth factor (NGF) or pigment epithelial derived factor (PEDF) in conjunction with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) increase nerve density and corneal epithelial cell proliferation. Increased synthesis of the novel docosanoid, neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1), was found in corneas after the animals were treated with PEDF and DHA. Topical application of these lipids derived from n-3 fatty acids could be useful in treating DE and prevent clinical complications such as cornea erosion and ulcerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiucheng He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Myrna KE, Pot SA, Murphy CJ. Meet the corneal myofibroblast: the role of myofibroblast transformation in corneal wound healing and pathology. Vet Ophthalmol 2010; 12 Suppl 1:25-7. [PMID: 19891648 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-5224.2009.00742.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years the role of the myofibroblast in corneal wound healing has been extensively studied. The transformation of the corneal keratocyte to the fibroblast and myofibroblast phenotypes is a critical process in normal and pathologic corneal wound healing. This review will introduce this important transformation and its role in corneal wound healing and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathern E Myrna
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
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