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Li Y, Zhou H, Huang Q, Tan W, Cai Y, Wang Z, Zou J, Li B, Yoshida S, Zhou Y. Potential biomarkers for retinopathy of prematurity identified by circular RNA profiling in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:953812. [PMID: 36081509 PMCID: PMC9447331 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.953812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to reveal the altered expression profiles of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and to identify potential biomarkers for ROP diagnosis. Methods Differentially expressed circRNAs in PBMCs of five infants with ROP and five controls were identified using microarray analysis. Twelve altered circRNAs were validated using reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Bioinformatic analyses were conducted to predict the circRNA/miRNA interactions, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, related biological functions, and signaling pathways. Four selected circRNAs in PBMCs were verified using RT-qPCR in another cohort, including 24 infants with ROP and 23 premature controls, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to estimate their potential as diagnostic biomarkers of ROP. Results A total of 54 and 143 circRNAs were significantly up- and down-regulated, respectively, in the PBMCs of patients with ROP compared with controls. Twelve of the significantly altered circRNAs were preliminarily validated by RT-qPCR, which confirmed the reliability of the microarray analysis. The circRNA/miRNA interactions and ceRNA network were displayed according to the altered circRNAs. Three circRNAs (hsa_circRNA_061346, hsa_circRNA_092369, and hsa_circRNA_103554) were identified as potential diagnostic biomarkers for ROP with certain clinical values. Conclusions CircRNAs were significantly altered in PBMCs of treatment-requiring ROP patients. CircRNAs may be used as potential biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets for ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Haixiang Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Yuting Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Zicong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Jingling Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Bingyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
| | - Shigeo Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Yedi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Yedi Zhou,
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2
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Leahy S, Matei N, Blair NP, Shahidi M. Retinal Oxygen Delivery and Metabolism Response to Hyperoxia During Bilateral Common Carotid Artery Occlusion in Rats. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:30. [PMID: 35767246 PMCID: PMC9251813 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.6.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of the current study was to test the hypothesis that responses of total retinal blood flow (TRBF), inner retinal oxygen delivery (DO2), metabolism (MO2), and extraction fraction (OEF) to hyperoxia are higher after minutes of bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) as compared to days of BCCAO. Methods Twenty-eight rats were subjected to BCCAO for 30 minutes (n = 12), 1 day (n = 8), or 3 days (n = 8). Eight of the 12 rats were also evaluated at baseline, prior to BCCAO. During room air breathing (RA) and 100% O2 inspiration (hyperoxia), blood flow and phosphorescence lifetime imaging were performed to measure TRBF and vascular O2 contents, respectively. DO2, MO2, and OEF were calculated from these measurements. Results After 30 minutes or 3 days of BCCAO, TRBF did not differ between RA and hyperoxia conditions (P ≥ 0.14) but decreased under hyperoxia after 1 day (P = 0.01). Compared to RA, DO2 and MO2 were increased under hyperoxia after 30 minutes of BCCAO (P ≤ 0.02). Additionally, MO2 was decreased under hyperoxia after 1 day of BCCAO (P = 0.04). OEF was decreased under hyperoxia compared to RA (P < 0.001). Under hyperoxia, TRBF and DO2 were reduced after all BCCAO durations compared to baseline (P ≤ 0.04), whereas MO2 did not differ from baseline after 30 minutes of BCCAO (P = 1.00). Conclusions The findings indicate that hyperoxia introduced minutes after ischemia can reduce DO2 impairments and potentially return MO2 to approximately normal values. This information contributes to the knowledge of the effect of supplemental oxygen intervention on TRBF, DO2, MO2, and OEF outcomes after variable durations of ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Leahy
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Nathanael Matei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Norman P Blair
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Mahnaz Shahidi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
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3
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Klaska IP, White A, Villacampa P, Hoke J, Hervás LA, Maswood RN, Ali RR, Bunce C, Unwin RD, Cooper GJS, Bishop PN, Bainbridge JW. Intravitreal administration of recombinant human opticin protects against hyperoxia-induced pre-retinal neovascularization. Exp Eye Res 2021; 215:108908. [PMID: 34954204 PMCID: PMC8935380 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Opticin is an extracellular glycoprotein present in the vitreous. Its antiangiogenic properties offer the potential for therapeutic intervention in conditions such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity. Here, we investigated the hypothesis that intravitreal administration of recombinant human opticin can safely protect against the development of pathological angiogenesis and promote its regression. We generated and purified recombinant human opticin and investigated its impact on the development and regression of pathological retinal neovascularization following intravitreal administration in murine oxygen-induced retinopathy. We also investigated its effect on normal retinal vascular development and function, following intravitreal injection in neonatal mice, by histological examination and electroretinography. In oxygen-induced retinopathy, intravitreal administration of human recombinant opticin protected against the development of retinal neovascularization to similar extent as aflibercept, which targets VEGF. Opticin also accelerated regression of established retinal neovascularization, though the effect at 18 h was less than that of aflibercept. Intravitreal administration of human recombinant opticin in neonatal mice caused no detectable perturbation of subsequent retinal vascular development or function. In summary we found that intraocular administration of recombinant human opticin protects against the development of pathological angiogenesis in mice and promotes its regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela P Klaska
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK; KCL Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Anne White
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, FBMH, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Pilar Villacampa
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK; Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Ctra de Can Ruti, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Justin Hoke
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Laura A Hervás
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Ryea N Maswood
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK; KCL Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Catey Bunce
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Addison House, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Richard D Unwin
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, FBMH, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Stoller Biomarker Discovery Centre and Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, FBMH, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Garth J S Cooper
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, FBMH, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul N Bishop
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, FBMH, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - James W Bainbridge
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
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M2 macrophages promote vasculogenesis during retinal neovascularization by regulating bone marrow-derived cells via SDF-1/VEGF. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 380:469-486. [PMID: 31989253 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03166-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages promote vasculogenesis during retinal neovascularization (RNV) by increasing the recruitment and differentiation of bone marrow-derived cells (BMCs). Different subtypes of macrophages (M1 and M2 macrophages) are associated with RNV. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of BMCs by different macrophage subtypes during RNV remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the role and mechanism of action of different macrophage subtypes that regulate BMCs during the development of RNV. The retinal avascular area and neovascularization (NV) tuft area in M2 macrophage group in vivo were the largest compared to those in the control phosphate buffer saline (PBS), unpolarized-M0, and M1 macrophage groups. The number of recruited green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive BMCs and the degree of differentiation of BMCs into CD31-positive endothelial cells (ECs) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were higher in the M2 macrophage group than in the other groups. M2-conditional medium (M2-CM) affected the in vitro migration and activation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs, a subset of BMCs) more than M1-CM. The expression of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in M2 macrophages and BMSCs cultured with M2-CM was also higher than that in M1 macrophages and BMSCs cultured with M1-CM. Migration of BMSCs was reduced after inhibiting the SDF-1 signaling pathway. Our results indicate that M2 macrophages may express significantly higher levels of SDF-1 and VEGF than M1 macrophages, thus regulating the recruitment and differentiation of BMCs and further aggravating vasculogenesis during RNV.
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Liu H, Mei FC, Yang W, Wang H, Wong E, Cai J, Toth E, Luo P, Li YM, Zhang W, Cheng X. Epac1 inhibition ameliorates pathological angiogenesis through coordinated activation of Notch and suppression of VEGF signaling. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaay3566. [PMID: 31911948 PMCID: PMC6938696 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aay3566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the roles of Epac1 in pathological angiogenesis and its potential as a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of vasoproliferative diseases. Genetic deletion of Epac1 ameliorated pathological angiogenesis in mouse models of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) and carotid artery ligation. Moreover, genetic deletion or pharmacological inhibition of Epac1 suppressed microvessel sprouting from ex vivo aortic ring explants. Mechanistic studies revealed that Epac1 acted as a previously unidentified inhibitor of the γ-secretase/Notch signaling pathway via interacting with γ-secretase and regulating its intracellular trafficking while enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor signaling to promote pathological angiogenesis. Pharmacological administration of an Epac-specific inhibitor suppressed OIR-induced neovascularization in wild-type mice, recapitulating the phenotype of genetic Epac1 knockout. Our results demonstrate that Epac1 signaling is critical for the progression of pathological angiogenesis but not for physiological angiogenesis and that the newly developed Epac-specific inhibitors are effective in combating proliferative retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Fang C. Mei
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wenli Yang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eitan Wong
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jingjing Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Emma Toth
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pei Luo
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yue-Ming Li
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Lin W, Tu H, Zhu Y, Guan Y, Liu H, Ling W, Yan P, Dong J. Curcumolide, a unique sesquiterpenoid from Curcuma wenyujin displays anti-angiogenic activity and attenuates ischemia-induced retinal neovascularization. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 64:152923. [PMID: 31450226 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting vascular endothelial growth factor is a common treatment strategy for neovascular eye disease, a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness. However, these approaches are limited or carry various complications. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of unique therapeutic approaches. PURPOSE To investigate the anti-angiogenic effects of curcumolide and its mechanism of action. METHODS /STUDY DESIGNS In this study, we examine the effects of curcumolide on the process of vasculature formation, including cell proliferation, migration, tube formation and apoptosis in vitro using human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). We also assess the anti-angiogenic effects of curcumolide in vivo using a mouse model of oxygen induced retinopathy (OIR). The mechanism of anti-angiogenic effects was investigated by measuring the expression level of various signaling proteins and the molecular docking simulations. RESULTS Intravitreal injection of curcumolide reduced the formation of retinal neovascular tufts and VEGFR2 phosphorylation in the murine OIR model at concentrations administered without definite cellular and retinal toxicities. Curcumolide suppressed VEGF-induced HRMECs proliferation, migration and tube formation in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, it promoted caspase-dependent apoptosis. Curcumolide also inhibited VEGF-induced phosphorylation of VEGFR-2 tyrosine kinase, and suppressed downstream protein kinases of VEGFR2, including Src, FAK, ERK, AKT, and mTOR in HRMECs. In silico study revealed that curcumolide bound with ATP-binding sites of the VEGFR2 kinase unit by the formation of a hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interactions. CONCLUSION Curcumolide has anti-angiogenic activity in HUVECs and in a murine OIR model of ischemia-induced retinal neovascularization, and it might be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Lin
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Hongfeng Tu
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Yao Zhu
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Yijian Guan
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Wei Ling
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Pengcheng Yan
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China
| | - Jianyong Dong
- Pharmacy School, Wenzhou Medical University, A509, Pharmacy School Building, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province 325035, PR China.
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Therapeutic Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine on a Rat Model of Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion. J Ophthalmol 2019; 2019:9521379. [PMID: 30906588 PMCID: PMC6398022 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9521379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is a common retinal vascular disorder leading to visual impairment. Currently, the general strategies for BRVO are symptomatic therapies. Cardiovascular aspects are essential risk factors for BRVO. The traditional Chinese medicine hexuemingmu (HXMM), consisting of tanshinol and baicalin, dilates the vasculature and accelerates microcirculation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and possible mechanism of HXMM in a BRVO rat model established by laser photocoagulation. Successful BRVO rat models were treated with different doses of HXMM. Fundus photography and fluorescein fundus angiography (FFA) of the animals were applied. The retinal layers were measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Full-field electroretinography (ffERG) was applied to evaluate the retinal function. The ear vein flow velocity was measured via a microcirculation detector. The expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-α) was measured via western blotting and immunofluorescent staining. Our study found that retinal edema predominantly occurred in the inner nuclear layer (INL) and outer nuclear layer (ONL). The retinal edema of the treated groups was significantly relieved in the early stage of BRVO as visualized via OCT detection and HE staining. The amplitudes of the b wave and oscillatory potentials (OPs) waves of ffERG in the treated groups were increased compared with those of the control group at several detection points (3, 5, 7, 10, 14, and 21 d postocclusion). The expression of VEGF-α was reduced in the treated groups at an early stage of BRVO. Furthermore, the ear vein flow velocity of the HXMM treatment groups was faster than that of the control group. Thus, our study indicates that the traditional Chinese medicine HXMM could ameliorate retinal edema and rescue the retinal structure and function in BRVO models through promoting occluded vein recanalization, improving microcirculation, and regulating the expression of VEGF-α.
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8
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The role of placental growth factor (PlGF) and its receptor system in retinal vascular diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 69:116-136. [PMID: 30385175 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family. Upon binding to VEGF- and neuropilin-receptor sub-types, PlGF modulates a range of neural, glial and vascular cell responses that are distinct from VEGF-A. As PlGF expression is selectively associated with pathological angiogenesis and inflammation, its blockade does not affect the healthy vasculature. PlGF actions have been extensively described in tumor biology but more recently there has been accumulating preclinical evidence that indicates that this growth factor could have an important role in retinal diseases. High levels of PlGF have been found in aqueous humor, vitreous and/or retina of patients exhibiting retinopathies, especially those with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD). Expression of this growth factor seems to correlate closely with many of the key pathogenic features of early and late retinopathy in preclinical models. For example, studies using genetic modification and/or pharmacological treatment to block PlGF in the laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model, oxygen-induced retinopathy model, as well as various murine diabetic models, have shown that PlGF deletion or inhibition can reduce neovascularization, retinal leakage, inflammation and gliosis, without affecting vascular development or inducing neuronal degeneration. Moreover, an inhibitory effect of PlGF blockade on retinal scarring in the mouse CNV model has also been recently demonstrated and was found to be unique for PlGF inhibition, as compared to various VEGF inhibition strategies. Together, these preclinical results suggest that anti-PlGF therapy might have advantages over anti-VEGF treatment, and that it may have clinical applications as a standalone treatment or in combination with anti-VEGF. Additional clinical studies are clearly needed to further elucidate the role of PlGF and its potential as a therapeutic target in ocular diseases.
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9
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Retinal vasculature development in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 63:1-19. [PMID: 29129724 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Development of the retinal vasculature is based on highly coordinated signalling between different cell types of the retina, integrating internal metabolic requirements with external influences such as the supply of oxygen and nutrients. The developing mouse retinal vasculature is a useful model system to study these interactions because it is experimentally accessible for intra ocular injections and genetic manipulations, can be easily imaged and develops in a similar fashion to that of humans. Research using this model has provided insights about general principles of angiogenesis as well as pathologies that affect the developing retinal vasculature. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern the interactions between neurons, glial and vascular cells in the developing retina. This includes a review of mechanisms that shape the retinal vasculature, such as sprouting angiogenesis, vascular network remodelling and vessel maturation. We also explore how the disruption of these processes in mice can lead to pathology - such as oxygen induced retinopathy - and how this translates to human retinopathy of prematurity.
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10
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Tyml K, Swarbreck S, Pape C, Secor D, Koropatnick J, Feng Q, Veldhuizen RAW, Gill SE. Voluntary running exercise protects against sepsis-induced early inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses in aged mice. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2017; 21:210. [PMID: 28789683 PMCID: PMC5549433 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-017-1783-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite many animal studies and clinical trials, mortality in sepsis remains high. This may be due to the fact that most experimental studies of sepsis employ young animals, whereas the majority of septic patients are elderly (60 − 70 years). The objective of the present study was to examine the sepsis-induced inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses in aged mice. Since running exercise protects against a variety of diseases, we also examined the effect of voluntary running on septic responses in aged mice. Methods Male C57BL/6 mice were housed in our institute from 2–3 to 22 months (an age mimicking that of the elderly). Mice were prevented from becoming obese by food restriction (given 70–90% of ad libitum consumption amount). Between 20 and 22 months, a subgroup of mice ran voluntarily on wheels, alternating 1–3 days of running with 1–2 days of rest. At 22 months, mice were intraperitoneally injected with sterile saline (control) or 3.75 g/kg fecal slurry (septic). At 7 h post injection, we examined (1) neutrophil influx in the lung and liver by measuring myeloperoxidase and/or neutrophil elastase in the tissue homogenates by spectrophotometry, (2) interleukin 6 (IL6) and KC in the lung lavage by ELISA, (3) pulmonary surfactant function by measuring percentage of large aggregates, (4) capillary plugging (pro-coagulant response) in skeletal muscle by intravital microscopy, (5) endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein in skeletal muscle (eNOS-derived NO is putative inhibitor of capillary plugging) by immunoblotting, and (6) systemic blood platelet counts by hemocytometry. Results Sepsis caused high levels of pulmonary myeloperoxidase, elastase, IL6, KC, liver myeloperoxidase, and capillary plugging. Sepsis also caused low levels of surfactant function and platelet counts. Running exercise increased eNOS protein and attenuated the septic responses. Conclusions Voluntary running protects against exacerbated sepsis-induced inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses in aged mice. Protection against pro-coagulant responses may involve eNOS upregulation. The present discovery in aged mice calls for clinical investigation into potential beneficial effects of exercise on septic outcomes in the elderly. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13054-017-1783-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Tyml
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Scott Swarbreck
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cynthia Pape
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dan Secor
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Koropatnick
- Cancer Research Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Oncology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Qingping Feng
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruud A W Veldhuizen
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Respirology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean E Gill
- Centre for Critical Illness Research, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Division of Respirology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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11
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Wang H. Anti-VEGF therapy in the management of retinopathy of prematurity: what we learn from representative animal models of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Eye Brain 2016; 8:81-90. [PMID: 28539803 PMCID: PMC5398744 DOI: 10.2147/eb.s94449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains a leading cause of childhood blindness, affecting infants born prematurely. ROP is characterized by the onset of delayed physiological retinal vascular development (PRVD) and followed by pathologic neovascularization into the vitreous instead of the retina, called intravitreal neovascularization (IVNV). Therefore, the therapeutic strategy for treating ROP is to promote PRVD and inhibit or prevent IVNV. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ROP. There is a growing body of studies testing the use of anti-VEGF agents as a treatment for ROP. Intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment for ROP has potential advantages compared with laser photocoagulation, the gold standard for the treatment of severe ROP; however, intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment has been associated with reactivation of ROP and suppression of systemic VEGF that may affect body growth and organ development in preterm infants. Therefore, it is important to understand the role of VEGF in PRVD and IVNV. This review includes the current knowledge of anti-VEGF treatment for ROP from animal models of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), highlighting the importance of VEGF inhibition by targeting retinal Müller cells, which inhibits IVNV and permits PRVD. The signaling events involved in mediating VEGF expression and promoting VEGF-mediated angiogenesis, including hypoxia-dependent signaling, erythropoietin/erythropoietin receptor-, oxidative stress-, beta-adrenergic receptor-, integrin-, Notch/Delta-like ligand 4- and exon guidance molecules-mediated signaling pathways, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, John A Moran Eye Center, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Morin J, Luu TM, Superstein R, Ospina LH, Lefebvre F, Simard MN, Shah V, Shah PS, Kelly EN. Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Following Bevacizumab Injections for Retinopathy of Prematurity. Pediatrics 2016; 137:peds.2015-3218. [PMID: 27244705 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-3218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Bevacizumab intravitreal injection, a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor, is used to treat retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). However, concerns have been raised regarding its systemic absorption and effect on developing tissues including brain. This study compared neurodevelopment at 18 months' corrected age in preterm infants of <29 weeks' gestation treated with bevacizumab versus laser ablation. METHODS Data from the Canadian Neonatal Network and the Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network databases were retrospectively reviewed. Infants born at <29 weeks' in 2010-2011 with treated ROP were studied. Neurodevelopmental outcome at 18 months was assessed by using neurologic examination and the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition. Regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Of 125 treated infants, 27 received bevacizumab and 98 laser. The bevacizumab group, compared with laser, obtained a median Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition motor composite score of 81 (interquartile range, 70-91) versus 88 (79-97), a language composite score of 79 (65-97) versus 89 (74-97), and a cognitive score of 90 (80-100) versus 90 (85-100). Difference was detected on the motor score only (P = .02). Odds of severe neurodevelopmental disabilities (Bayley scores <70, severe cerebral palsy, hearing aids, or bilateral blindness) was 3.1 times higher (95% confidence interval: 1.2-8.4) in infants treated with bevacizumab versus laser after adjusting for gestational age, gender, maternal education, Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology-II score, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, sepsis, and severe brain injury. CONCLUSIONS Preterm infants treated with bevacizumab versus laser had higher odds of severe neurodevelopmental disabilities. Further investigation on the long-term safety of antivascular endothelial growth factor treatment of ROP is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Morin
- Department of Pediatrics and Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Department of Pediatrics and Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada;
| | - Rosanne Superstein
- Department of Pediatrics and Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Luis H Ospina
- Department of Pediatrics and Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Francine Lefebvre
- Department of Pediatrics and Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Vibhuti Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Prakesh S Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Edmond N Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Li J, Dai Y, Zhu H, Jiang Y, Zhang S. Endometriotic mesenchymal stem cells significantly promote fibrogenesis in ovarian endometrioma through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by paracrine production of TGF-β1 and Wnt1. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:1224-35. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Pertl L, Steinwender G, Mayer C, Hausberger S, Pöschl EM, Wackernagel W, Wedrich A, El-Shabrawi Y, Haas A. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Safety of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitors for the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129383. [PMID: 26083024 PMCID: PMC4470662 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Laser photocoagulation is the current gold standard treatment for proliferative retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). However, it permanently reduces the visual field and might induce myopia. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors for the treatment of ROP may enable continuing vascularization of the retina, potentially allowing the preservation of the visual field. However, for their use in infants concern remains. This meta-analysis explores the safety of VEGF inhibitors. METHODS The Ovid Interface was used to perform a systematic review of the literature in the databases PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. RESULTS This meta-analysis included 24 original reports (including 1.457 eyes) on VEGF inhibitor treatment for ROP. The trials were solely observational except for one randomized and two case-control studies. We estimated a 6-month risk of retreatment per eye of 2.8%, and a 6-month risk of ocular complication without the need of retreatment of 1.6% per eye. Systemic complications were only reported as isolated incidents. DISCUSSION VEGF inhibitors seem to be associated with low recurrence rates and ocular complication rates. They may have the benefit of potentially allowing the preservation of visual field and lower rates of myopia. Due to the lack of data, the risk of systemic side effects cannot be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pertl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Gernot Steinwender
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Christoph Mayer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Silke Hausberger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Eva-Maria Pöschl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Werner Wackernagel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Wedrich
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Yosuf El-Shabrawi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Klagenfurt Hospital, Feschnigstraße 11, 9020, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Anton Haas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
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Mansour AM, Pulido JS, Arevalo JF. Diabetic Macular Edema: From Old Concepts to New Therapeutic Avenues. MEDICAL HYPOTHESIS, DISCOVERY & INNOVATION OPHTHALMOLOGY JOURNAL 2015; 4:130-135. [PMID: 27800500 PMCID: PMC5087101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a significant cause of blindness in the working population and is currently challenging to treat. Current interventions include focal laser or intravitreal injections. This article outlines a new treatment protocol based on the theory that peripheral ischemia is the precursor to angiogenesis, which will ultimately gather its momentum at the fovea. Extreme peripheral light laser panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) back to the equator reduces excessive production of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the eye. This decreases VEGF-induced DME and provides long-term protection against the development of neovascularization. Initial exacerbation of DME often accompanies PRP. Therefore, injections of anti-VEGF agents (with or without dexamethasone implants) initially can forestall worsening of DME and prevent loss of vision. However, on the other hand, applying peripheral PRP and intraocular injections can induce posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This could help release vitreomacular adhesions (VMA) and vitreomacular traction (VMT), thereby decreasing DME severity and improving the response to intravitreal injections. In the current approach, peripheral retinal photocoagulation should stop the drive for VEGF release; moreover, laser ablation should produce secondary, accidental, and beneficial PVD. This approach precludes focal laser therapy and paves the path for prolonged intervals between anti-VEGF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad M Mansour
- Department of Ophthalmology, American University of Beirut, and Hariri University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jose S Pulido
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (JSP)
| | - J Fernando Arevalo
- Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA (JFA)
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Li J, Liu CH, Sun Y, Gong Y, Fu Z, Evans LP, Tian KT, Juan AM, Hurst CG, Mammoto A, Chen J. Endothelial TWIST1 promotes pathological ocular angiogenesis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:8267-77. [PMID: 25414194 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-15623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Pathological neovessel formation impacts many blinding vascular eye diseases. Identification of molecular signatures distinguishing pathological neovascularization from normal quiescent vessels is critical for developing new interventions. Twist-related protein 1 (TWIST1) is a transcription factor important in tumor and pulmonary angiogenesis. This study investigated the potential role of TWIST1 in modulating pathological ocular angiogenesis in mice. METHODS Twist1 expression and localization were analyzed in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Pathological ocular angiogenesis in Tie2-driven conditional Twist1 knockout mice were evaluated in both OIR and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization models. In addition, the effects of TWIST1 on angiogenesis and endothelial cell function were analyzed in sprouting assays of aortic rings and choroidal explants isolated from Twist1 knockout mice, and in human retinal microvascular endothelial cells treated with TWIST1 small interfering RNA (siRNA). RESULTS TWIST1 is highly enriched in pathological neovessels in OIR retinas. Conditional Tie2-driven depletion of Twist1 significantly suppressed pathological neovessels in OIR without impacting developmental retinal angiogenesis. In a laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model, Twist1 deficiency also resulted in significantly smaller lesions with decreased vascular leakage. In addition, loss of Twist1 significantly decreased vascular sprouting in both aortic ring and choroid explants. Knockdown of TWIST1 in endothelial cells led to dampened expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and decreased endothelial cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that TWIST1 is a novel regulator of pathologic ocular angiogenesis and may represent a new molecular target for developing potential therapeutic treatments to suppress pathological neovascularization in vascular eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chi-Hsiu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ye Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Zhongjie Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Lucy P Evans
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Katherine T Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Aimee M Juan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Christian G Hurst
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Akiko Mammoto
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Yalin Imamoglu E, Gunay M, Gursoy T, Imamoglu S, Balci Ekmekci O, Celik G, Karatekin G, Ovali F. Effect of laser photocoagulation on plasma levels of VEGF-A, VEGFR-2, and Tie2 in infants with retinopathy of prematurity. J AAPOS 2014; 18:466-70. [PMID: 25266828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2014.07.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the baseline plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (sVEGFR-2) and soluble Tie2 in infants with treatment-requiring retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and to investigate the effect of laser treatment on the plasma levels. METHODS Blood samples were collected from infants with prethreshold type 1 ROP before, 1 day after, and 1 week after confluent laser photocoagulation. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay procedure was used to determine plasma VEGF-A, sVEGFR-2, and sTie2 levels. RESULTS A total of 48 eyes of 30 infants were included. The mean postconceptional age at which laser photocoagulation was performed was 37.5 ± 2.9 weeks. The mean number of laser spots applied to each eye was 1,480 ± 420. Regression of active retinopathy occurred within 1 week of treatment in all cases. Baseline plasma VEGF-A, sVEGFR-2, and sTie2 levels did not differ between unilateral and bilateral and also zone I and zone II disease. A significantly progressive decrease was observed in plasma VEGF-A, sVEGFR-2, and sTie2 levels at 1 day and 1 week after laser photocoagulation. CONCLUSIONS Plasma levels of VEGF-A, sVEGFR-2, and sTie2 decreased significantly in our patients after laser treatment; however, because of the variability in the measurements, further studies evaluating the clinical value of these angiogenic factors in patients with treatment-requiring ROP are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebru Yalin Imamoglu
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Murat Gunay
- Ophthalmology Department, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tugba Gursoy
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serhat Imamoglu
- Ophthalmology Clinic, Haydarpasa Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Biochemistry Department, University of Istanbul Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Celik
- Ophthalmology Department, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Guner Karatekin
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fahri Ovali
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Zeynep Kamil Maternity and Children's Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Barnett JM, Suarez S, McCollum GW, Penn JS. Endoglin promotes angiogenesis in cell- and animal-based models of retinal neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:6490-8. [PMID: 25159209 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-14945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated endoglin expression in hypoxic microvascular endothelial cells and retinal endoglin expression in rats that develop experimental oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). We also tested neutralizing antibodies (Abs) against endoglin (anti-CD105 Ab) and VEGF (anti-VEGF Ab) either alone or in combination for efficacy against serum-induced retinal microvascular endothelial cell proliferation and retinal neovascularization (NV) in OIR rats. To our knowledge, this marks the first time that a biologic agent has been used to target retinal endoglin and modulate retinal neovascularization. METHODS Induction of endoglin by hypoxia was measured by immunohistochemical analysis and ELISA. Proliferation was quantified using a colorimetric 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine ELISA. Western blots were used to measure endoglin levels in retinas of OIR rats. Immunohistochemical staining was also preformed in OIR rats using anti-CD105 and fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated isolectin B4 antibodies. RESULTS Anti-CD105 Ab and Anti-VEGF Ab, administered alone or in combination, reduced serum-induced retinal microvascular endothelial cell proliferation. Additionally, in a rat model of oxygen-induced retinopathy, retinal endoglin was significantly increased at 14(2), 14(3), 14(4) and 14(6) compared with retinal levels in control rats. At 14(2), immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that endoglin was elevated in newly developed vessels at the peripheral extent of major veins, precisely where NV is expected to develop in OIR rats. Neutralizing anti-CD105 reduced retinal NV in OIR rats. CONCLUSIONS Our data support other studies showing that reduction of endoglin expression inhibits retinal NV. Our findings demonstrate that retinal endoglin immunolocalization overlaps with nascent neovascular structures in OIR rats. Therefore, endoglin may serve as a useful predictor of incipient neovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Barnett
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Sandra Suarez
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Gary W McCollum
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - John S Penn
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
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Alterations of retinal vasculature in cystathionine-β-synthase heterozygous mice: a model of mild to moderate hyperhomocysteinemia. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2014; 184:2573-85. [PMID: 25016930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2014.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mild to moderate hyperhomocysteinemia is prevalent in humans and is implicated in neurovascular diseases, including recently in certain retinal diseases. Herein, we used hyperhomocysteinemic mice deficient in the Cbs gene encoding cystathionine-β-synthase (Cbs(+/-)) to evaluate retinal vascular integrity. The Cbs(+/+) (wild type) and Cbs(+/-) (heterozygous) mice (aged 16 to 52 weeks) were subjected to fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography to assess vasculature in vivo. Retinas harvested for cryosectioning or flat mount preparations were subjected to immunofluorescence microscopy to detect blood vessels (isolectin-B4), angiogenesis [anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and anti-CD105], gliosis [anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)], pericytes (anti-neural/glial antigen 2), blood-retinal barrier [anti-zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1) and anti-occludin], and hypoxia [anti-pimonidazole hydrochloride (Hypoxyprobe-1)]. Levels of VEGF, GFAP, ZO-1, and occludin were determined by immunoblotting. Results of these analyses showed a mild vascular phenotype in young mice, which progressed with age. Fluorescein angiography revealed progressive neovascularization and vascular leakage in Cbs(+/-) mice; optical coherence tomography confirmed new vessels in the vitreous by 1 year. Immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated vascular patterns consistent with ischemia, including a capillary-free zone centrally and new vessels with capillary tufts midperipherally in older mice. This was associated with increased VEGF, CD105, and GFAP and decreased ZO-1/occludin levels in the Cbs(+/-) retinas. Retinal vein occlusion was observed in some Cbs(+/-) mouse retinas. We conclude that mild to moderate elevation of homocysteine in Cbs(+/-) mice is accompanied by progressive alterations in retinal vasculature characterized by ischemia, neovascularization, incompetent blood-retinal barrier, and vascular occlusion.
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Ameri H, Liu H, Liu R, Ha Y, Paulucci-Holthauzen AA, Hu S, Motamedi M, Godley BF, Tilton RG, Zhang W. TWEAK/Fn14 pathway is a novel mediator of retinal neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:801-13. [PMID: 24408972 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.13-12812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Retinal neovascularization (NV) is a major cause of vision loss in ischemia-induced retinopathy. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) and its receptor, fibroblast growth factor inducible-14 (Fn14), have been implicated in angiogenesis, but their role in retinal diseases is unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the role of TWEAK/Fn14 pathway in retinal NV. METHODS Studies were performed in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) and in primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs). Hyperoxia treatment was initiated on postnatal day (P)14. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR (qPCR) were used to assess retinal vascular changes in relation to expression of Fn14 and TWEAK. RESULTS Fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 mRNA was prominently increased from P13 to P17 in OIR retinas, whereas TWEAK level was slightly decreased. These alterations were normalized by hyperoxia treatment and were more striking in isolated retinal vessels. There was a discernible shift in the immunoreactivity of Fn14 and TWEAK from the neuronal layers in the healthy retina to the neovascular tufts in that of OIR. Blockade of TWEAK/Fn14 significantly prevented retinal NV while slightly accelerated revascularization. In contrast, activation of Fn14 positively regulated survival pathways in the B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl2) family and robustly enhanced HRMEC survival. Furthermore, gene analysis revealed the regulatory region of Fn14 gene contains several conserved hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α binding sites. Overexpression of HIF-1α prominently induced Fn14 expression in HRMECs. CONCLUSIONS We found that the TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK)/fibroblast growth factor inducible-14 (Fn14) pathway is involved in the development of pathologic retinal neovascularization. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α is likely implicated in the upregulation of Fn14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Ameri
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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Shaik-Dasthagirisaheb YB, Varvara G, Murmura G, Saggini A, Potalivo G, Caraffa A, Antinolfi P, Tete' S, Tripodi D, Conti F, Cianchetti E, Toniato E, Rosati M, Conti P, Speranza L, Pantalone A, Saggini R, Theoharides TC, Pandolfi F. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), mast cells and inflammation. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2013; 26:327-35. [PMID: 23755748 DOI: 10.1177/039463201302600206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important inducers of angiogenesis, therefore blocking angiogenesis has led to great promise in the treatment of various cancers and inflammatory diseases. VEGF, expressed in response to soluble mediators such as cytokines and growth factors, is important in the physiological development of blood vessels as well as development of vessels in tumors. In cancer patients VEGF levels are increased, and the expression of VEGF is associated with poor prognosis in diseases. VEGF is a mediator of angiogenesis and inflammation which are closely integrated processes in a number of physiological and pathological conditions including obesity, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases and tumor. Mast cells can be activated by anti-IgE to release potent mediators of inflammation and can also respond to bacterial or viral antigens, cytokines, growth factors and hormones, leading to differential release of distinct mediators without degranulation. Substance P strongly induces VEGF in mast cells, and IL-33 contributes to the stimulation and release of VEGF in human mast cells in a dose-dependent manner and acts synergistically in combination with Substance P. Here we report a strong link between VEGF and mast cells and we depict their role in inflammation and immunity.
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