1
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Sun D, Zhang X, Chen R, Sang T, Li Y, Wang Q, Xie L, Zhou Q, Dou S. Decoding cellular plasticity and niche regulation of limbal stem cells during corneal wound healing. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:201. [PMID: 38971839 PMCID: PMC11227725 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03816-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunction or deficiency of corneal epithelium results in vision impairment or blindness in severe cases. The rapid and effective regeneration of corneal epithelial cells relies on the limbal stem cells (LSCs). However, the molecular and functional responses of LSCs and their niche cells to injury remain elusive. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on corneal tissues from normal mice and corneal epithelium defect models. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to confirm the distinct characteristics and cell fates of LSCs. Knockdown of Creb5 and OSM treatment experiment were performed to determine their roles of in corneal epithelial wound healing. RESULTS Our data defined the molecular signatures of LSCs and reconstructed the pseudotime trajectory of corneal epithelial cells. Gene network analyses characterized transcriptional landmarks that potentially regulate LSC dynamics, and identified a transcription factor Creb5, that was expressed in LSCs and significantly upregulated after injury. Loss-of-function experiments revealed that silencing Creb5 delayed the corneal epithelial healing and LSC mobilization. Through cell-cell communication analysis, we identified 609 candidate regeneration-associated ligand-receptor interaction pairs between LSCs and distinct niche cells, and discovered a unique subset of Arg1+ macrophages infiltrated after injury, which were present as the source of Oncostatin M (OSM), an IL-6 family cytokine, that were demonstrated to effectively accelerate the corneal epithelial wound healing. CONCLUSIONS This research provides a valuable single-cell resource and reference for the discovery of mechanisms and potential clinical interventions aimed at ocular surface reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Sun
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Rong Chen
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Tian Sang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ya Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Shengqian Dou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
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2
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Wilson SE. Topical Losartan: Practical Guidance for Clinical Trials in the Prevention and Treatment of Corneal Scarring Fibrosis and Other Eye Diseases and Disorders. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:191-206. [PMID: 36877777 PMCID: PMC10079252 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that impedes transforming growth factor (TGF) beta signaling by inhibiting activation of signal transduction molecule extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Studies supported the efficacy of topical losartan in decreasing scarring fibrosis after rabbit Descemetorhexis, alkali burn, and photorefractive keratectomy injuries, and in case reports of humans with scarring fibrosis after surgical complications. Clinical studies are needed to explore the efficacy and safety of topical losartan in the prevention and treatment of corneal scarring fibrosis, and other eye diseases and disorders where TGF beta has a role in pathophysiology. These include scarring fibrosis associated with corneal trauma, chemical burns, infections, surgical complications, and persistent epithelial defects, as well as conjunctival fibrotic diseases, such as ocular cicatricial pemphigoid and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Research is also needed to explore the efficacy and safety of topical losartan for hypothesized treatment of transforming growth factor beta-induced (TGFBI)-related corneal dystrophies (Reis-Bu¨cklers corneal dystrophy, lattice corneal dystrophy type 1, and granular corneal dystrophies type 1 and type 2) where deposited mutant protein expression is modulated by TGF beta. Investigations could also explore the efficacy and safety of topical losartan treatments to reduce conjunctival bleb scarring and shunt encapsulation following glaucoma surgical procedures. Losartan and sustained release drug delivery devices could be efficacious in treating intraocular fibrotic diseases. Dosing suggestions and precautions that should be considered in trials of losartan are detailed. Losartan, as an adjuvant to current treatments, has the potential to augment pharmacological therapeutics for many ocular diseases and disorders where TGF beta plays a central role in pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E. Wilson
- The Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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3
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Lukassen MV, Poulsen ET, Donaghy J, Mogensen EH, Christie KA, Roshanravan H, DeDioniso L, Nesbit MA, Moore T, Enghild JJ. Protein Analysis of the TGFBI R124H Mouse Model Gives Insight into Phenotype Development of Granular Corneal Dystrophy. Proteomics Clin Appl 2020; 14:e1900072. [PMID: 32558206 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201900072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mutations in the transforming growth factor β-induced protein (TGFBIp) are associated with TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies, which manifests as protein deposits in the cornea. A total of 70 different disease-causing mutations have been reported so far including the common R124H substitution, which is associated with granular corneal dystrophy type 2 (GCD2). The disease mechanism of GCD2 is not known and the current treatments only offer temporary relief due to the reoccurrence of deposits. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The corneal protein profiles of the three genotypes (wild-type (WT), heterozygotes, and homozygotes) of a GCD2 mouse model are compared using label-free quantitative LC-MS/MS. RESULTS The mice do not display corneal protein deposits and the global protein expression between the three genotypes is highly similar. However, the expression of mutated TGFBIp is 41% of that of the WT protein. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE It is proposed that the lowered expression level of mutant TGFBIp protein relative to WT protein is the direct cause of the missing development of corneal deposits in the mouse. The overall protein profiles of the corneas are not impacted by the reduced amount of TGFBIp. Altogether, this supports a partial reduction in mutated TGFBIp as a potential treatment strategy for GCD2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie V Lukassen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark.,Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Ebbe T Poulsen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Jack Donaghy
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Emilie H Mogensen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
| | - Kathleen A Christie
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, BT52 1SA, UK
| | | | - Larry DeDioniso
- Avellino Labs USA, Menlo Park, San Francisco, CA, 94025, USA
| | - M Andrew Nesbit
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Tara Moore
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, BT52 1SA, UK.,Avellino Labs USA, Menlo Park, San Francisco, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Jan J Enghild
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark.,Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
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4
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McNeill EP, Zeitouni S, Pan S, Haskell A, Cesarek M, Tahan D, Clough BH, Krause U, Dobson LK, Garcia M, Kung C, Zhao Q, Saunders WB, Liu F, Kaunas R, Gregory CA. Characterization of a pluripotent stem cell-derived matrix with powerful osteoregenerative capabilities. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3025. [PMID: 32541821 PMCID: PMC7295745 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16646-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10% of fractures will not heal without intervention. Current treatments can be marginally effective, costly, and some have adverse effects. A safe and manufacturable mimic of anabolic bone is the primary goal of bone engineering, but achieving this is challenging. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are excellent candidates for engineering bone, but lack reproducibility due to donor source and culture methodology. The need for a bioactive attachment substrate also hinders progress. Herein, we describe a highly osteogenic MSC line generated from induced pluripotent stem cells that generates high yields of an osteogenic cell-matrix (ihOCM) in vitro. In mice, the intrinsic osteogenic activity of ihOCM surpasses bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP2) driving healing of calvarial defects in 4 weeks by a mechanism mediated in part by collagen VI and XII. We propose that ihOCM may represent an effective replacement for autograft and BMP products used commonly in bone tissue engineering. Production of a safe and manufacturable material to mimic anabolic bone for tissue engineering has been hard to achieve to date. Here the authors use a mesenchymal stem cell line generated from induced pluripotent stem cells to produce osteogenic cell-matrix, displaying significant healing properties in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eoin P McNeill
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Suzanne Zeitouni
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Simin Pan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Andrew Haskell
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Michael Cesarek
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Daniel Tahan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Bret H Clough
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Ulf Krause
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Cellular Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Lauren K Dobson
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Mayra Garcia
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Christopher Kung
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Qingguo Zhao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - W Brian Saunders
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Roland Kaunas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Carl A Gregory
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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5
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Zahir-Jouzdani F, Khonsari F, Soleimani M, Mahbod M, Arefian E, Heydari M, Shahhosseini S, Dinarvand R, Atyabi F. Nanostructured lipid carriers containing rapamycin for prevention of corneal fibroblasts proliferation and haze propagation after burn injuries: In vitro and in vivo. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:4702-4712. [PMID: 30191977 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Chemical burns are a major cause of corneal haze and blindness. Corticosteroids are commonly used after corneal burns to attenuate the severity of the inflammation-related fibrosis. While research efforts have been aimed toward application of novel therapeutics. In the current study, a novel drug delivery system based nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were designed to treat corneal alkaline burn injury. Rapamycin, a potent inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, was loaded in NLCs (rapa-NLCs), and the NLCs were characterized. Cell viability assay, cellular uptake of NLCs, and in vitro evaluation of the fibrotic/angiogenic genes suppression by rapa-NLCs were carried out on human isolated corneal fibroblasts. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays were also performed after treatment of murine model of corneal alkaline burn with rapa-NLCs. According to the results, rapamycin was efficiently loaded in NLCs. NLCs could enhance coumarin-6 fibroblast uptake by 1.5 times. Rapa-NLCs efficiently downregulated platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor beta genes in vitro. Furthermore, proliferation of fibroblasts, a major cause of corneal haze after injury, reduced. IHC staining of treated cornea with alpha-smooth muscle actin and CD34 + antibodies showed efficient prevention of myofibroblasts differentiation and angiogenesis, respectively. In conclusion, ocular delivery of rapamycin using NLCs after corneal injury may be considered as a promising antifibrotic/angiogenic treatment approach to preserve patient eyesight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forouhe Zahir-Jouzdani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Khonsari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Bonyakhteh Stem Cell Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mirgholamreza Mahbod
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Pathology Department, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Arefian
- Bonyakhteh Stem Cell Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Heydari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Shahhosseini
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Pathology Department, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rassoul Dinarvand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Nanotechnology Research Centre, Novel Drug Delivery Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Nanotechnology Research Centre, Novel Drug Delivery Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Katikireddy KR, White TL, Miyajima T, Vasanth S, Raoof D, Chen Y, Price MO, Price FW, Jurkunas UV. NQO1 downregulation potentiates menadione-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition during rosette formation in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 116:19-30. [PMID: 29294389 PMCID: PMC5815941 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a genetic and oxidative stress disorder of post-mitotic human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs), which normally exhibit hexagonal shape and form a compact monolayer compatible with normal corneal functioning and clear vision. FECD is associated with increased DNA damage, which in turn leads to HCEnC loss, resulting in the formation rosettes and aberrant extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in the form of pro-fibrotic guttae. Since the mechanism of ECM deposition in FECD is currently unknown, we aimed to investigate the role of endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in FECD using a previously established cellular in vitro model that recapitulates the characteristic rosette formation, by employing menadione (MN)-induced oxidative stress. We demonstrate that MN treatment alone, or a combination of MN and TGF-β1 induces reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell death, and EMT in HCEnCs during rosette formation, resulting in upregulation of EMT- and FECD-associated markers such as Snail1, N-cadherin, ZEB1, and transforming growth factor-beta-induced (TGFβI), respectively. Additionally, FECD ex vivo specimens displayed a loss of organized junctional staining of plasma membrane-bound N-cadherin, with corresponding increase in fibronectin and Snail1 compared to ex vivo controls. Addition of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) downregulated all EMT markers and abolished rosette formation. Loss of NQO1, a metabolizing enzyme of MN, led to greater increase in intracellular ROS levels as well as a significant upregulation of Snail1, fibronectin, and N-cadherin compared to normal cells, indicating that NQO1 regulates Snail1-mediated EMT. This study provides first line evidence that MN-induced oxidative stress leads to EMT in corneal endothelial cells, and the effect of which is further potentiated when redox cycling activity of MN is enhanced by the absence of NQO1. Given that NAC inhibits Snail-mediated EMT, this may be a potential therapeutic intervention for FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kishore Reddy Katikireddy
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tomas L White
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Taiga Miyajima
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Shivakumar Vasanth
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Duna Raoof
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Harvard Eye Associates, Laguna Hills, CA 92660, USA
| | - Yuming Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Marianne O Price
- Cornea Research Foundation of America, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA
| | - Francis W Price
- Cornea Research Foundation of America, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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7
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Poulsen ET, Runager K, Nielsen NS, Lukassen MV, Thomsen K, Snider P, Simmons O, Vorum H, Conway SJ, Enghild JJ. Proteomic profiling of TGFBI-null mouse corneas reveals only minor changes in matrix composition supportive of TGFBI knockdown as therapy against TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies. FEBS J 2017; 285:101-114. [PMID: 29117645 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14321] [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: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
TGFBIp is a constituent of the extracellular matrix in many human tissues including the cornea, where it is one of the most abundant proteins expressed. TGFBIp interacts with Type I, II, IV, VI, and XII collagens as well as several members of the integrin family, suggesting it plays an important role in maintaining structural integrity and possibly corneal transparency as well. Significantly, more than 60 point mutations within the TGFBI gene have been reported to result in aberrant TGFBIp folding and aggregation in the cornea, resulting in severe visual impairment and blindness. Several studies have focused on targeting TGFBIp in the cornea as a therapeutic approach to treat TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies, but the effect of this approach on corneal homeostasis and matrix integrity remained unknown. In the current study, we evaluated the histological and proteomic profiles of corneas from TGFBI-deficient mice as well as potential redundant functions of the paralogous protein POSTN. The absence of TGFBIp in mouse corneas did not grossly affect the collagen scaffold, and POSTN is unable to compensate for loss of TGFBIp. Proteomic comparison of wild-type and TGFBI-/- mice revealed 11 proteins were differentially regulated, including Type VI and XII collagens. However, as these alterations did not manifest at the macroscopic and behavioral levels, these data support partial or complete TGFBI knockdown as a potential therapy against TGFBI-linked corneal dystrophies. Lastly, in situ hybridization verified TGFBI mRNA in the epithelial cells but not in other cell types, supportive of a therapy directed specifically at this lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kasper Runager
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Nadia Sukusu Nielsen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark.,Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Marie V Lukassen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark.,Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Karen Thomsen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Paige Snider
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Olga Simmons
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Henrik Vorum
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Simon J Conway
- Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jan J Enghild
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark.,Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Denmark
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8
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Zahir-Jouzdani F, Mahbod M, Soleimani M, Vakhshiteh F, Arefian E, Shahosseini S, Dinarvand R, Atyabi F. Chitosan and thiolated chitosan: Novel therapeutic approach for preventing corneal haze after chemical injuries. Carbohydr Polym 2017; 179:42-49. [PMID: 29111069 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2017.09.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Corneal haze, commonly caused by deep physical and chemical injuries, can greatly impair vision. Growth factors facilitate fibroblast proliferation and differentiation, which leads to haze intensity. In this study, the potential effect of chitosan (CS) and thiolated-chitosan (TCS) nanoparticles and solutions on inhibition of fibroblast proliferation, fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation, neovascularization, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and pro-fibrotic cytokine expression was examined. Transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ1) was induced by interleukin-6 (IL6) in human corneal fibroblasts and expression levels of TGFβ1, Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), α-smooth muscle actins (α-SMA), collagen type I (Col I), fibronectin (Fn) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were quantified using qRT-PCR. To assess wound-healing capacity, TCS-treated mice were examined for α-SMA positive cells, collagen deposition, inflammatory cells and neovascularization through pathological immunohistochemistry. The results revealed that CS and TCS could down-regulate the expression levels of TGFβ1 and PDGF comparable to that of TGFβ1 knockdown experiment. However, down-regulation of TGFβ1 was not regulated through miR29b induction. Neovascularization along with α-SMA and ECM deposition were significantly diminished. According to these findings, CS and TCS can be considered as potential anti-fibrotic and anti-angiogenic therapeutics. Furthermore, TCS, thiolated derivative of CS, will increase mucoadhesion of the polymer at the corneal surface which makes the polymer efficient and non-toxic therapeutic approach for corneal injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forouhe Zahir-Jouzdani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14174, Iran; Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Faezeh Vakhshiteh
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Arefian
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Noor Eye hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Rasoul Dinarvand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14174, Iran; Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14174, Iran; Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Qiu WY, Zheng LB, Pan F, Wang BB, Yao YF. New histopathologic and ultrastructural findings in Reis-Bücklers corneal dystrophy caused by the Arg124Leu mutation of TGFBI gene. BMC Ophthalmol 2016; 16:158. [PMID: 27590038 PMCID: PMC5010699 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-016-0325-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Reis-Bücklers corneal dystrophy (RBCD) was consistently reported as a corneal dystrophy only affected Bowman’s layer and superficial corneal stroma, and superficial keratectomy was a recommendation surgery for treatment in literatures. The study reported new histopathological and ultrastructural findings in RBCD caused by the Arg124Leu mutation of transforming growth factor induced (TGFBI) gene in a four-generation Chinese pedigree. Methods Subjects including eight patients and seven unaffected family members received slit-lamp biomicroscopy and photography. DNA was obtained from all subjects, and exons 4 and 11 to 14 of TGFBI gene were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and the products were sequenced. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy were conducted for ten eyes of five patients. Based on the results of AS OCT and in vivo confocal microscopy, deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DLKP) using cryopreserved donor cornea was applied for four eyes of four patients. Four lamellar dystrophic corneal buttons were studied by light and transmission electron microscopy, and TGFBI immunohistochemistry. Results Eight patients had typical clinical manifestations of RBCD presenting recurrent painful corneal erosion starting in their early first decades, along with age-dependent progressive geographic corneal opacities. TGFBI sequencing revealed a heterozygous mutation, Arg124Leu in all eight patients. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography and in vivo confocal microscopy showed the dystrophic deposits involved not only in subepithelial and superficial stroma, but also in mid- or posterior stroma in four examined advanced eyes. Light microscopy showed Bowman’s layer was absent, replaced by abnormal deposits stain bright red with Masson’s trichrome. In superficial cornea, the deposits stacked and produced three to five continuous bands parallel to the corneal collagen lamellae. In mid- to posterior stroma, numerous granular or dot- like aggregates were heavily scattered, and most of them presented around the nuclei of stromal keratocytes. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the multiple electron-dense rod-shaped deposits aggregated and formed a characteristic pattern of three to five continuous bands in superficial cornea, which were similar to those seen under light microscopy. In mid- to posterior stroma, clusters of rod-shaped bodies were scattered extracellular or intracellular of the stromal keratocytes between the stromal lamellae suggesting the close relationship between mutated proteins and keratocyte. Conclusions The study offer evidences indicating DLKP is a viable treatment option for advanced RBCD to avoid recurrence, and the mutated TGFBIp in dystrophic corneas are of keratocytes origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ya Qiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Key laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Bin Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.,Key laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bei-Bei Wang
- Core Facilities, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Feng Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. .,Key laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 Qingchun Road East, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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Pathogenesis and treatments of TGFBI corneal dystrophies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 50:67-88. [PMID: 26612778 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta-induced (TGFBI) corneal dystrophies are a group of inherited progressive corneal diseases. Accumulation of transforming growth factor beta-induced protein (TGFBIp) is involved in the pathogenesis of TGFBI corneal dystrophies; however, the exact molecular mechanisms are not fully elucidated. In this review article, we summarize the current knowledge of TGFBI corneal dystrophies including clinical manifestations, epidemiology, most common and recently reported associated mutations for each disease, and treatment modalities. We review our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of granular corneal dystrophy type 2 (GCD2) and studies of other TGFBI corneal dystrophies. In GCD2 corneal fibroblasts, alterations of morphological characteristics of corneal fibroblasts, increased susceptibility to intracellular oxidative stress, dysfunctional and fragmented mitochondria, defective autophagy, and alterations of cell cycle were observed. Other studies of mutated TGFBIp show changes in conformational structure, stability and proteolytic properties in lattice and granular corneal dystrophies. Future research should be directed toward elucidation of the biochemical mechanism of deposit formation, the relationship between the mutated TGFBIp and the other materials in the extracellular matrix, and the development of gene therapy and pharmaceutical agents.
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11
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Maeng YS, Lee GH, Choi SI, Kim KS, Kim EK. Histone methylation levels correlate with TGFBIp and extracellular matrix gene expression in normal and granular corneal dystrophy type 2 corneal fibroblasts. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8:74. [PMID: 26553048 PMCID: PMC4638082 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-015-0151-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background TGFβ1-induced expression of transforming growth factor β-induced protein (TGFBIp) and extracellular matrix (ECM) genes plays a major role in the development of granular corneal dystrophy type 2 (GCD2: also called Avellino corneal dystrophy). Although some key transcription factors are known, the epigenetic mechanisms modulating TGFBIp and ECM expression remain unclear. We examined the role of chromatin markers such as histone H3 lysine methylation (H3Kme) in TGFβ1-induced TGFBIp and ECM gene expression in normal and GCD2-derived human corneal fibroblasts. Methods Wild-type (n = 3), GCD2-heterozygous (n = 1), and GCD2-homozygous (n = 3) primary human corneal fibroblasts were harvested from human donors and patients prepared. Microarray and gene-expression profiling, Chromatin immunoprecipitation microarray analysis, and Methylated DNA isolation assay-assisted CpG microarrays was performed in Wild-type and GCD2-homozygous human cells. Results Transcription and extracellular-secretion levels of TGFBIp were high in normal cells compared with those in GCD2-derived cells and were related to H3K4me3 levels but not to DNA methylation over the TGFBI locus. TGFβ1 increased the expression of TGFBIp and the ECM-associated genes connective tissue growth factor, collagen-α2[Ι], and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in normal corneal fibroblasts. Increased levels of gene-activating markers (H3K4me1/3) and decreased levels of repressive markers (H3K27me3) at the promoters of those gene accompanied the changes in expression. TGFβ1 also increased recruitment of the H3K4 methyltransferase MLL1 and of SET7/9 and also the binding of Smad3 to the promoters. Knockdown of both MLL1 and SET7/9 significantly blocked the TGFβ1-induced gene expression and inhibited TGFβ1-induced changes in promoter H3K4me1/3 levels. Those effects were very weak, however, in GCD2-derived corneal fibroblasts. Conclusions Taken together, the results show the functional role of H3K4me in TGFβ1-mediated TGFBIp and ECM gene expression in corneal fibroblasts. Pharmacologic and other therapies that regulate these modifications could have potential cornea-protective effects for granular corneal dystrophy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12920-015-0151-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Sun Maeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 250 Seongsanno, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 120-752, South Korea
| | - Ga-Hyun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 250 Seongsanno, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 120-752, South Korea
| | - Seung-Il Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 250 Seongsanno, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 120-752, South Korea
| | - Kyu Seo Kim
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eung Kweon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 250 Seongsanno, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 120-752, South Korea. .,Institute of Vision Research, Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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Kim EK, Lee H, Choi SI. Molecular Pathogenesis of Corneal Dystrophies: Schnyder Dystrophy and Granular Corneal Dystrophy type 2. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2015; 134:99-115. [PMID: 26310152 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The International Committee for Classification of Corneal Dystrophies (IC3D) provides updated data to ophthalmologists by incorporating traditional definitions of corneal dystrophies with new genetic, clinical, and pathologic information. Recent advances in the genetics of corneal dystrophies facilitate more precise classifications and elucidate each classification's molecular mechanisms. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms and underlying pathogenic mechanisms have remained obscure, with the exception of Schnyder corneal dystrophy (CD), granular CD type 2 (GCD2), and Fuch's endothelial CD. Here, we review the pathogenesis of Schnyder CD and GCD2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eung Kweon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vision Research Institute, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; BK21 Plus Project for Medical Science and Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vision Research Institute, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Il Choi
- Corneal Dystrophy Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Lakshminarayanan R, Chaurasia SS, Anandalakshmi V, Chai SM, Murugan E, Vithana EN, Beuerman RW, Mehta JS. Clinical and genetic aspects of the TGFBI-associated corneal dystrophies. Ocul Surf 2014; 12:234-51. [PMID: 25284770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2013.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Revised: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Corneal dystrophies are a group of inherited disorders localized to various layers of the cornea that affect corneal transparency and visual acuity. The deposition of insoluble protein materials in the form of extracellular deposits or intracellular cysts is pathognomic. Mutations in TGFBI are responsible for superficial and stromal corneal dystrophies. The gene product, transforming growth factor β induced protein (TGFBIp) accumulates as insoluble deposits in various forms. The severity, clinicopathogenic variations, age of the onset, and location of the deposits depend on the type of amino acid alterations in the protein. Until 2006, 38 different pathogenic mutants were reported for the TGFBI-associated corneal dystrophies. This number has increased to 63 mutants, reported in more than 30 countries. There is no effective treatment to prevent, halt, or reverse the deposition of TGFBIp. This review presents a complete mutation update, classification of phenotypes, comprehensive reported incidents of various mutations, and current treatment options and their shortcomings. Future research directions and possible approaches to inhibiting disease progression are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lakshminarayanan
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; SRP Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - Shyam S Chaurasia
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; SRP Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Shu-Ming Chai
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | | | - Eranga N Vithana
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; SRP Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger W Beuerman
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; SRP Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Department of Clinical Sciences, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore.
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Wang Y, Zhao S, Loyd S, Groome LJ. Increased urinary excretion of nephrin, podocalyxin, and βig-h3 in women with preeclampsia. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2012; 302:F1084-9. [PMID: 22301621 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00597.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has shown that podocyte injury and reduced specific podocyte protein expressions contribute to proteinuria in preeclampsia. We collected urine specimens from women with preeclampsia to study whether podocyte-specific protein shedding is associated with renal barrier dysfunction. Urine specimens from women with normal pregnancies and from pregnant women complicated by chronic hypertension were used for comparison. We determined soluble podocyte slit protein nephrin levels in the urine specimens. Podocalyxin, βig-h3, and VEGF concentrations were also measured. We found that nephrin and podocalyxin were barely detectable in the urine specimens from normal pregnant women and from women with chronic hypertension. In preeclampsia, urinary nephrin and podocalyxin concentrations were significantly increased and highly correlated to each other, r(2) = 0.595. Nephrin and podocalyxin were also correlated with urine protein concentrations. βig-h3 was detected in the urine specimens from women with preeclampsia, and it is highly correlated with nephrin and podocalyxin concentrations in preeclampsia. βig-h3 was undetectable in normal pregnancy and pregnancy complicated by chronic hypertension. Elevated VEGF levels were also found in women with preeclampsia compared with those of normal pregnancy and pregnancy complicated by chronic hypertension. These results provide strong evidence that podocyte protein shedding occurs in preeclampsia, and their levels are associated with proteinuria. The finding of urinary βig-h3 excretion in preeclampsia suggests that increased transforming growth factor activity might also be involved in the kidney lesion in this pregnancy disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA 71130, USA.
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Association of TCF4 and CLU polymorphisms with Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy and implication of CLU and TGFBI proteins in the disease process. Eur J Hum Genet 2012; 20:632-8. [PMID: 22234156 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2011.248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy (FED) is a disease affecting the corneal endothelium. Recent studies reported significant association of polymorphisms in the TCF4 (transcription factor 4) gene, and a borderline association of PTPRG (protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type, G) variants with late-onset FED in Caucasians from the United States. Association of TCF4 has also been reported in the Chinese population. We aimed to determine association of the reported polymorphisms in TCF4 and PTPRG, and association of polymorphisms in the candidate genes ZEB1 (zinc-finger E-box binding homoebox 1), COL8A2 (collagen, type VIII, alpha 2), TGFBI (transforming growth factor, β-induced) and CLU (clusterin) in Australian cases. We also compared the expression of TGFBI and CLU proteins between FED and normal whole corneas. In all, 30 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the candidate genes were genotyped in 103 cases and 275 controls. Each SNP and haplotype was assessed for association with the disease. SNP analysis identified an association of TCF4 (rs613872 (P=5.25 × 10(-15), OR=4.05), rs9954153 (P=3.37 × 10(-7), OR=2.58), rs2286812 (P=4.23 × 10(-6), OR=2.55) and rs17595731 (P=3.57 × 10(-5), OR=3.79)), CLU (rs17466684; P=0.003, OR=1.85) and one haplotype of TGFBI SNPs (P=0.011, OR=2.29) with FED in Caucasian Australians. No evidence for genetic association of PTPRG, ZEB1 and COL8A2 was found. Immunohistochemistry showed differential expression of CLU and TGFBI proteins in FED-affected compared with normal corneas. In conclusion, variation in TCF4, CLU and TGFBI, but not PTPRG, ZEB1 and COL8A2 genes are associated with FED in Caucasian Australian cases. Differential expression of CLU and TGFBI proteins in FED-affected corneas provides novel insights into the disease mechanism.
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Lee YK, Kim MS. Long-Term Outcomes of Penetrating Keratoplasty in Treating Macular Corneal Dystrophy, TGFBI Dystrophy, and Fuchs' Dystrophy. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2012. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2012.53.10.1397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- You Kyung Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Man Soo Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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