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Bose D, Ortolan D, Farnoodian M, Sharma R, Bharti K. Considerations for Developing an Autologous Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC)-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) Replacement Therapy. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041295. [PMID: 37487631 PMCID: PMC10910357 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Cell-replacement therapies are a new class of treatments, which include induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived tissues that aim to replace degenerated cells. iPSCs can potentially be used to generate any cell type of the body, making them a powerful tool for treating degenerative diseases. Cell replacement for retinal degenerative diseases is at the forefront of cell therapies, given the accessibility of the eye for surgical procedures and a huge unmet medical need for retinal degenerative diseases with no current treatment options. Clinical trials are ongoing in different parts of the world using stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). This review focuses on scientific and regulatory considerations when developing an iPSC-derived RPE cell therapy from the development of a robust and efficient differentiation protocol to critical quality control assays for cell validation, the choice of an appropriate animal model for preclinical testing, and the regulatory aspects that dictate the final approval for proceeding to a first-in-human clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika Bose
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Davide Ortolan
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Mitra Farnoodian
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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2
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Kong K, Ding X, Wang Y, Xu S, Li G, Wang X, Zhang M, Ni Y, Xu G. Circular RNA expression profile and functional analysis of circUvrag in light-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 38282307 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are implicated in retinal pathophysiology; however, their expression profiles and functions in photoreceptor apoptosis are largely unknown. We explored circRNA-expression profiles and circUvrag (host gene: Uvrag, ultraviolet radiation resistance associated gene) function in light-induced photoreceptor apoptosis. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats and 661 W photoreceptor cells were exposed to blue light to establish light-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified using microarrays. Potential functions of dysregulated circRNAs were analysed using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses. CircUvrag expression and localization were evaluated using quantitative RT-PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization, respectively. CircUvrag overexpression and knockdown were induced using a plasmid and a small interfering RNA, respectively, and retinal function and structure were assessed using scotopic electroretinography, haematoxylin-eosin staining, and TUNEL staining. Microglial migration was assessed using IBA1 immunostaining. The apoptosis ratio of photoreceptor cells in vitro was detected using flow cytometry. RESULTS We identified 764 differentially expressed circRNAs, which were potentially related with the development of retinal structures, including neurons, dendrites, and synapses, and might participate in nervous-system pathophysiology. Light exposure enriched circUvrag in the cytoplasm of photoreceptors in the outer nuclear layer (ONL). CircUvrag knockdown decreased photoreceptor apoptosis and microglial migration to the ONL after light exposure, preserving ONL thickness and a-wave amplitude. In vitro, circUvrag knockdown inhibited photoreceptor apoptosis, although circUvrag overexpression slightly promoted photoreceptor apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS CircUvrag knockdown attenuated light-induced photoreceptor apoptosis, and might be a potential target in retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangjie Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingchao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sisi Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Gang Li
- Research Center, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingqin Ni
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gezhi Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Gupta S, Lytvynchuk L, Ardan T, Studenovska H, Sharma R, Faura G, Eide L, Shanker Verma R, Znaor L, Erceg S, Stieger K, Motlik J, Petrovski G, Bharti K. Progress in Stem Cells-Based Replacement Therapy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Vitro Differentiation to In Vivo Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:536-552. [PMID: 37459045 PMCID: PMC10427969 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a critical cell monolayer forming the blood-retina-barrier (BRB) and a permeable bridge between the choriocapillaris and the retina. RPE is also crucial in maintaining photoreceptor function and for completing the visual cycle. Loss of the RPE is associated with the development of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To treat diseases like AMD, pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (pRPE) has been recently explored extensively as a regenerative module. pRPE like other ectodermal tissues requires specific lineage differentiation and long-term in vitro culturing for maturation. Therefore, understanding the differentiation process of RPE could be useful for stem cell-based RPE derivation. Developing pRPE-based transplants and delivering them into the subretinal space is another aspect that has garnered interest in the last decade. In this review, we discuss the basic strategies currently employed for stem cell-based RPE derivation, their delivery, and recent clinical studies related to pRPE transplantation in patients. We have also discussed a few limitations with in vitro RPE culture and potential solutions to overcome such problems which can be helpful in developing functional RPE tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Gupta
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Karl Landsteiner Institute for Retinal Research and Imaging, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Studenovska
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioanalogous Systems, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Faura
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rama Shanker Verma
- Stem Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences. Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ljubo Znaor
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Research Center “Principe Felipe,” Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Knut Stieger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan Motlik
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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4
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Ladha R, Caspers LE, Willermain F, de Smet MD. Subretinal Therapy: Technological Solutions to Surgical and Immunological Challenges. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:846782. [PMID: 35402424 PMCID: PMC8985755 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.846782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in ocular gene and cellular therapy rely on precisely controlled subretinal delivery. Due to its inherent limitations, manual delivery can lead to iatrogenic damage to the retina, the retinal pigment epithelium, favor reflux into the vitreous cavity. In addition, it suffers from lack of standardization, variability in delivery and the need to maintain proficiency. With or without surgical damage, an eye challenged with an exogenous viral vector or transplanted cells will illicit an immune response. Understanding how such a response manifests itself and to what extent immune privilege protects the eye from a reaction can help in anticipating short- and long-term consequences. Avoidance of spillover from areas of immune privilege to areas which either lack or have less protection should be part of any mitigation strategy. In that regard, robotic technology can provide reproducible, standardized delivery which is not dependent on speed of injection. The advantages of microprecision medical robotic technology for precise targeted deliveries are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Ladha
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre and Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Reza Ladha
| | - Laure E. Caspers
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre and Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - François Willermain
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre and Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc D. de Smet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Preceyes B.V., Eindhoven, Netherlands
- MIOS SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
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5
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Limnios IJ, Chau YQ, Skabo SJ, Surrao DC, O'Neill HC. Efficient differentiation of human embryonic stem cells to retinal pigment epithelium under defined conditions. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:248. [PMID: 33883023 PMCID: PMC8058973 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02316-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a highly prevalent form of blindness caused by loss death of cells of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Transplantation of pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived RPE cells is considered a promising therapy to regenerate cell function and vision. Objective The objective of this study is to develop a rapid directed differentiation method for production of RPE cells from PSC which is rapid, efficient, and fully defined and produces cells suitable for clinical use. Design A protocol for cell growth and differentiation from hESCs was developed to induce differentiation through screening small molecules which regulated a primary stage of differentiation to the eyefield progenitor, and then, a subsequent set of molecules to drive differentiation to RPE cells. Methods for cell plating and maintenance have been optimized to give a homogeneous population of cells in a short 14-day period, followed by a procedure to support maturation of cell function. Results We show here the efficient production of RPE cells from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) using small molecules in a feeder-free system using xeno-free/defined medium. Flow cytometry at day 14 showed ~ 90% of cells expressed the RPE markers MITF and PMEL17. Temporal gene analysis confirmed differentiation through defined cell intermediates. Mature hESC-RPE cell monolayers exhibited key morphological, molecular, and functional characteristics of the endogenous RPE. Conclusion This study identifies a novel cell differentiation process for rapid and efficient production of retinal RPE cells directly from hESCs. The described protocol has utility for clinical-grade cell production for human therapy to treat AMD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02316-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis J Limnios
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia.
| | - Yu-Qian Chau
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Stuart J Skabo
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Denver C Surrao
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Helen C O'Neill
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia.
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DeFrates KG, Franco D, Heber-Katz E, Messersmith PB. Unlocking mammalian regeneration through hypoxia inducible factor one alpha signaling. Biomaterials 2021; 269:120646. [PMID: 33493769 PMCID: PMC8279430 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Historically, the field of regenerative medicine has aimed to heal damaged tissue through the use of biomaterials scaffolds or delivery of foreign progenitor cells. Despite 30 years of research, however, translation and commercialization of these techniques has been limited. To enable mammalian regeneration, a more practical approach may instead be to develop therapies that evoke endogenous processes reminiscent of those seen in innate regenerators. Recently, investigations into tadpole tail regrowth, zebrafish limb restoration, and the super-healing Murphy Roths Large (MRL) mouse strain, have identified ancient oxygen-sensing pathways as a possible target to achieve this goal. Specifically, upregulation of the transcription factor, hypoxia-inducible factor one alpha (HIF-1α) has been shown to modulate cell metabolism and plasticity, as well as inflammation and tissue remodeling, possibly priming injuries for regeneration. Since HIF-1α signaling is conserved across species, environmental or pharmacological manipulation of oxygen-dependent pathways may elicit a regenerative response in non-healing mammals. In this review, we will explore the emerging role of HIF-1α in mammalian healing and regeneration, as well as attempts to modulate protein stability through hyperbaric oxygen treatment, intermittent hypoxia therapy, and pharmacological targeting. We believe that these therapies could breathe new life into the field of regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey G DeFrates
- Department of Bioengineering and Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Daniela Franco
- Department of Bioengineering and Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Ellen Heber-Katz
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, PA, USA.
| | - Phillip B Messersmith
- Department of Bioengineering and Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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7
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Jemni-Damer N, Guedan-Duran A, Fuentes-Andion M, Serrano-Bengoechea N, Alfageme-Lopez N, Armada-Maresca F, Guinea GV, Perez-Rigueiro J, Rojo F, Gonzalez-Nieto D, Kaplan DL, Panetsos F. Biotechnology and Biomaterial-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Part II: Cell and Tissue Engineering Therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:588014. [PMID: 33363125 PMCID: PMC7758210 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.588014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an up-to-date untreatable chronic neurodegenerative eye disease of multifactorial origin, and the main causes of blindness in over 65 y.o. people. It is characterized by a slow progression and the presence of a multitude of factors, highlighting those related to diet, genetic heritage and environmental conditions, present throughout each of the stages of the illness. Current therapeutic approaches, mainly consisting on intraocular drug delivery, are only used for symptoms relief and/or to decelerate the progression of the disease. Furthermore, they are overly simplistic and ignore the complexity of the disease and the enormous differences in the symptomatology between patients. Due to the wide impact of the AMD and the up-to-date absence of clinical solutions, Due to the wide impact of the AMD and the up-to-date absence of clinical solutions, different treatment options have to be considered. Cell therapy is a very promising alternative to drug-based approaches for AMD treatment. Cells delivered to the affected tissue as a suspension have shown poor retention and low survival rate. A solution to these inconveniences has been the encapsulation of these cells on biomaterials, which contrive to their protection, gives them support, and favor their retention of the desired area. We offer a two-papers critical review of the available and under development AMD therapeutic approaches, from a biomaterials and biotechnological point of view. We highlight benefits and limitations and we forecast forthcoming alternatives based on novel biomaterials and biotechnology methods. In this second part we review the preclinical and clinical cell-replacement approaches aiming at the development of efficient AMD-therapies, the employed cell types, as well as the cell-encapsulation and cell-implant systems. We discuss their advantages and disadvantages and how they could improve the survival and integration of the implanted cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahla Jemni-Damer
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Atocha Guedan-Duran
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - María Fuentes-Andion
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nora Serrano-Bengoechea
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Alfageme-Lopez
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Gustavo V. Guinea
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain
- Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Perez-Rigueiro
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain
- Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Rojo
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain
- Department of Material Science, Civil Engineering Superior School, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Gonzalez-Nieto
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Neuro-computing and Neuro-robotics Research Group, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Innovation Group, Institute for Health Research San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Silk Biomed SL, Madrid, Spain
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Subramaniam MD, Iyer M, Nair AP, Venkatesan D, Mathavan S, Eruppakotte N, Kizhakkillach S, Chandran MK, Roy A, Gopalakrishnan AV, Vellingiri B. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial transfer: A new dimension towards ocular diseases. Genes Dis 2020; 9:610-637. [PMID: 35782976 PMCID: PMC9243399 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular cells like, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a highly specialized pigmented monolayer of post-mitotic cells, which is located in the posterior segment of the eye between neuro sensory retina and vascular choroid. It functions as a selective barrier and nourishes retinal visual cells. As a result of high-level oxygen consumption of retinal cells, RPE cells are vulnerable to chronic oxidative stress and an increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated from mitochondria. These oxidative stress and ROS generation in retinal cells lead to RPE degeneration. Various sources including mtDNA damage could be an important factor of oxidative stress in RPE. Gene therapy and mitochondrial transfer studies are emerging fields in ocular disease research. For retinal degenerative diseases stem cell-based transplantation methods are developed from basic research to preclinical and clinical trials. Translational research contributions of gene and cell therapy would be a new strategy to prevent, treat and cure various ocular diseases. This review focuses on the effect of oxidative stress in ocular cell degeneration and recent translational researches on retinal degenerative diseases to cure blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohana Devi Subramaniam
- SN ONGC Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Chennai 600006, Tamil Nadu, India
- Corresponding author.
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- SN ONGC Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Chennai 600006, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore 641 043, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aswathy P. Nair
- SN ONGC Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Chennai 600006, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhivya Venkatesan
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sinnakaruppan Mathavan
- SN ONGC Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Chennai 600006, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nimmisha Eruppakotte
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Soumya Kizhakkillach
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manoj kumar Chandran
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ayan Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Lovely Professional University, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore 600127, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
- Corresponding author. Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell, Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641 046, Tamil Nadu, India.Fax: +91 422 2422387.
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9
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Haghighat M, Iranbakhsh A, Baharara J, Ebadi M, Sotoodehnejadnematalahi F. Effect of β-carotene on the differentiation potential of ciliary epithelium-derived MSCs isolated from mouse eyes on alginate-based scaffolds. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108346. [PMID: 33147471 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are considered a major challenge all over the world, and stem cell therapy is a promising approach to restore degenerative cells due to RD. MSCs are multipotent stem cells found in a variety of tissues. They are capable of differentiating into various retinal cell types, so it can be a good candidate for various degenerative disorders like retinal degenerations. β-carotene is an antioxidant that could accelerate the stem cell differentiation while using the proper scaffold. In this study, we evaluated the effect of β-carotene on the differentiation potential of ciliary epithelium-derived MSCs isolated from mouse eyes on alginate-based scaffolds. MSCs were isolated from mouse ciliary epithelium, cultured in DMEM medium supplemented with 10% FBS, and identified by detecting their surface antigens. Three 3D culture systems, alginate, alginate/gelatin, and gelatin hydrogels were prepared, and their structures were checked via SEM. MSCs were cultured on 3D and 2D culture system scaffolds following treated with differentiation medium containing 50 μM β-mercaptoethanol, 1 × minimum essential medium-nonessential amino acids and 20% of knockout serum replacement and β-carotene. MSCs viability and differentiation ability were examined by MTT and ICC, respectively. The expression changes of several retinal specific genes (Nestin, RPE65, and Rhodopsin) were also evaluated by qPCR. Over 80% of cells isolated from mouse ciliary epithelium were positive for MSC-specific markers. The viability rates of MSCs grown on all alginate-based scaffolds were above 70%. MSCs cultured on alginate-based scaffold in the differentiation medium containing β-carotene expressed higher levels of rhodopsin protein compared to a 2D culture. Also, the expressions of Nestin, Rhodopsin, and RPE65 genes were upregulated in β-carotene-treated MSCs grown on alginate-based scaffolds. Our results indicate that the addition of β-carotene to the differentiation medium, along with applying alginate-based scaffolds, could induce higher differentiation in mouse ciliary epithelium-derived MSCs into specialized retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Haghighat
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Iranbakhsh
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Javad Baharara
- Department of Biology, Applied Biology Research Center, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mostafa Ebadi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
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10
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Singh MS, Park SS, Albini TA, Canto-Soler MV, Klassen H, MacLaren RE, Takahashi M, Nagiel A, Schwartz SD, Bharti K. Retinal stem cell transplantation: Balancing safety and potential. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 75:100779. [PMID: 31494256 PMCID: PMC7056514 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation holds great promise as a potential treatment for currently incurable retinal degenerative diseases that cause poor vision and blindness. Recently, safety data have emerged from several Phase I/II clinical trials of retinal stem cell transplantation. These clinical trials, usually run in partnership with academic institutions, are based on sound preclinical studies and are focused on patient safety. However, reports of serious adverse events arising from cell therapy in other poorly regulated centers have now emerged in the lay and scientific press. While progress in stem cell research for blindness has been greeted with great enthusiasm by patients, scientists, doctors and industry alike, these adverse events have raised concerns about the safety of retinal stem cell transplantation and whether patients are truly protected from undue harm. The aim of this review is to summarize and appraise the safety of human retinal stem cell transplantation in the context of its potential to be developed into an effective treatment for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep S Singh
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Susanna S Park
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, University of California-Davis Eye Center, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Thomas A Albini
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - M Valeria Canto-Soler
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Department of Ophthalmology, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Henry Klassen
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and Stem Cell Research Center, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford and Oxford University Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Aaron Nagiel
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA; USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90007, USA
| | - Steven D Schwartz
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California Los Angeles Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA; Edythe and Eli Broad Stem Cell Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 90892, USA
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11
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Mohana Devi S, Mahalaxmi I, Kaavya J, Chinnkulandhai V, Balachandar V. Does epigenetics have a role in age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy? Genes Dis 2020; 8:279-286. [PMID: 33997175 PMCID: PMC8093576 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play an important part in the regulation of gene expression and these alterations may induce long-term changes in gene function and metabolism. They have received extensive attention in bridging the gap between environmental exposures and disease development via their influence on gene expression. DNA methylation is the earliest discovered epigenetic alteration. In this review, we try to examine the role of DNA methylation and histone modification in Age related macular degeneration (AMD) and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), its vascular complications and recent progress. Given the complex nature of AMD and DR, it is crucial to improve therapeutics which will greatly enhance the quality of life and reduce the burden for millions of patients living with these potentially blinding conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mohana Devi
- SN ONGC Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 41/18, College Road, Chennai, 600006, India
| | - I Mahalaxmi
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Avinashilingam University for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - J Kaavya
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Avinashilingam University for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - V Chinnkulandhai
- Department of Biochemistry, Dr.N.G.P Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - V Balachandar
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cells Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
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12
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Low-oxygen and knock-out serum maintain stemness in human retinal progenitor cells. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:1613-1623. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05248-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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13
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Ben M’Barek K, Habeler W, Regent F, Monville C. Developing Cell-Based Therapies for RPE-Associated Degenerative Eye Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1186:55-97. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-28471-8_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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14
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Automation of human pluripotent stem cell differentiation toward retinal pigment epithelial cells for large-scale productions. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10646. [PMID: 31337830 PMCID: PMC6650487 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47123-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction or death of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is involved in some forms of Retinitis Pigmentosa and in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Since there is no cure for most patients affected by these diseases, the transplantation of RPE cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) represents an attractive therapeutic alternative. First attempts to transplant hPSC-RPE cells in AMD and Stargardt patients demonstrated the safety and suggested the potential efficacy of this strategy. However, it also highlighted the need to upscale the production of the cells to be grafted in order to treat the millions of potential patients. Automated cell culture systems are necessary to change the scale of cell production. In the present study, we developed a protocol amenable for automation that combines in a sequential manner Nicotinamide, Activin A and CHIR99021 to direct the differentiation of hPSCs into RPE cells. This novel differentiation protocol associated with the use of cell culture robots open new possibilities for the production of large batches of hPSC-RPE cells while maintaining a high cell purity and functionality. Such methodology of cell culture automation could therefore be applied to various differentiation processes in order to generate the material suitable for cell therapy.
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15
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Cell Therapy for Retinal Dystrophies: From Cell Suspension Formulation to Complex Retinal Tissue Bioengineering. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:4568979. [PMID: 30809263 PMCID: PMC6364130 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4568979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is an irreversible phenomenon caused by various disease conditions including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). During the course of these diseases, photoreceptors (PRs) are susceptible to degeneration due to their malfunctions or to a primary dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Once lost, these cells could not be endogenously regenerated in humans, and cell therapy to replace the lost cells is one of the promising strategies to recover vision. Depending on the nature of the primary defect and the stage of the disease, RPE cells, PRs, or both might be transplanted to achieve therapeutic effects. We describe in this review the current knowledge and recent progress to develop such approaches. The different cell sources proposed for cell therapy including human pluripotent stem cells are presented with their advantages and limits. Another critical aspect described herein is the pharmaceutical formulation of the end product to be delivered into the eye of patients. Finally, we also outline the future research directions in order to develop a complex multilayered retinal tissue for end-stage patients.
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16
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Affiliation(s)
- Kapil Bharti
- Ocular Stem Cell and Translational Research Unit at the National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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17
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Tian Y, Davis R, Zonca MR, Stern JH, Temple S, Xie Y. Screening and optimization of potential injection vehicles for storage of retinal pigment epithelial stem cell before transplantation. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2018; 13:76-86. [DOI: 10.1002/term.2770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yangzi Tian
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering; SUNY Polytechnic Institute; Albany New York
| | - Richard Davis
- Department of Retina Research; Neural Stem Cell Institute; Rensselaer New York
| | - Michael R. Zonca
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering; SUNY Polytechnic Institute; Albany New York
| | - Jeffrey H. Stern
- Department of Retina Research; Neural Stem Cell Institute; Rensselaer New York
| | - Sally Temple
- Department of Retina Research; Neural Stem Cell Institute; Rensselaer New York
| | - Yubing Xie
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering; SUNY Polytechnic Institute; Albany New York
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18
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Ben M'Barek K, Habeler W, Plancheron A, Jarraya M, Regent F, Terray A, Yang Y, Chatrousse L, Domingues S, Masson Y, Sahel JA, Peschanski M, Goureau O, Monville C. Human ESC-derived retinal epithelial cell sheets potentiate rescue of photoreceptor cell loss in rats with retinal degeneration. Sci Transl Med 2018; 9:9/421/eaai7471. [PMID: 29263231 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aai7471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Replacing defective retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells with those derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) or human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is a potential strategy for treating retinal degenerative diseases. Early clinical trials have demonstrated that hESC-derived or hiPSC-derived RPE cells can be delivered safely as a suspension to the human eye. The next step is transplantation of hESC/hiPSC-derived RPE cells as cell sheets that are more physiological. We have developed a tissue-engineered product consisting of hESC-derived RPE cells grown as sheets on human amniotic membrane as a biocompatible substrate. We established a surgical approach to engraft this tissue-engineered product into the subretinal space of the eyes of rats with photoreceptor cell loss. We show that transplantation of the hESC-RPE cell sheets grown on a human amniotic membrane scaffold resulted in rescue of photoreceptor cell death and improved visual acuity in rats with retinal degeneration compared to hESC-RPE cells injected as a cell suspension. These results suggest that tissue-engineered hESC-RPE cell sheets produced under good manufacturing practice conditions may be a useful approach for treating diseases of retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Ben M'Barek
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Walter Habeler
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Alexandra Plancheron
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Mohamed Jarraya
- Banque de tissus humain, Hôpital Saint Louis, AP-HP Paris, France
| | - Florian Regent
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Angélique Terray
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Ying Yang
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DHOS CIC, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Laure Chatrousse
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Sophie Domingues
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Yolande Masson
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DHOS CIC, 75012 Paris, France.,Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, 75019 Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Marc Peschanski
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France.
| | - Christelle Monville
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM), Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France. .,UEVE U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
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19
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Ben M'Barek K, Habeler W, Goureau O, Monville C. [Treating retinal dystrophies affecting retinal pigment epithelium using tissue engineering obtained from human embryonic stem cells]. Med Sci (Paris) 2018; 34:383-386. [PMID: 29900833 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/20183405004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Ben M'Barek
- Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France - UEVE Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France - CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Walter Habeler
- Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France - UEVE Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France - CECS, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la vision, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Christelle Monville
- Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France - UEVE Inserm U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for stem cell therapy and exploration of monogenic diseases, 28, rue Henri Desbruères, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
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20
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Stern JH, Tian Y, Funderburgh J, Pellegrini G, Zhang K, Goldberg JL, Ali RR, Young M, Xie Y, Temple S. Regenerating Eye Tissues to Preserve and Restore Vision. Cell Stem Cell 2018; 22:834-849. [PMID: 29859174 PMCID: PMC6492284 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ocular regenerative therapies are on track to revolutionize treatment of numerous blinding disorders, including corneal disease, cataract, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, and age-related macular degeneration. A variety of transplantable products, delivered as cell suspensions or as preformed 3D structures combining cells and natural or artificial substrates, are in the pipeline. Here we review the status of clinical and preclinical studies for stem cell-based repair, covering key eye tissues from front to back, from cornea to retina, and including bioengineering approaches that advance cell product manufacturing. While recognizing the challenges, we look forward to a deep portfolio of sight-restoring, stem cell-based medicine. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey H Stern
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Yangzi Tian
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, USA
| | - James Funderburgh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Graziella Pellegrini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via G.Gottardi 100, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Kang Zhang
- Shiley Eye Institute and Institute for Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University and Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Laboratory, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University, 2452 Watson Court, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Genetics, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, City Road, London EC1V 2PD, UK; Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Michael Young
- The Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yubing Xie
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, USA
| | - Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.
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21
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Phase 1 clinical study of an embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium patch in age-related macular degeneration. Nat Biotechnol 2018; 36:328-337. [PMID: 29553577 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.4114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 415] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains a major cause of blindness, with dysfunction and loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) central to disease progression. We engineered an RPE patch comprising a fully differentiated, human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE monolayer on a coated, synthetic basement membrane. We delivered the patch, using a purpose-designed microsurgical tool, into the subretinal space of one eye in each of two patients with severe exudative AMD. Primary endpoints were incidence and severity of adverse events and proportion of subjects with improved best-corrected visual acuity of 15 letters or more. We report successful delivery and survival of the RPE patch by biomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography, and a visual acuity gain of 29 and 21 letters in the two patients, respectively, over 12 months. Only local immunosuppression was used long-term. We also present the preclinical surgical, cell safety and tumorigenicity studies leading to trial approval. This work supports the feasibility and safety of hESC-RPE patch transplantation as a regenerative strategy for AMD.
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22
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Öner A. Stem Cell Treatment in Retinal Diseases: Recent Developments. Turk J Ophthalmol 2018; 48:33-38. [PMID: 29576896 PMCID: PMC5854857 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.89972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells which have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into mature cells. They are highly proliferative, implying that an unlimited number of mature cells can be generated from a given stem cell source. On this basis, stem cell replacement therapy has been evaluated in recent years as an alternative for various pathologies. Degenerative retinal diseases cause progressive visual decline which originates from continuing loss of photoreceptor cells and outer nuclear layers. Theoretically, this therapy will enable the generation of new retinal cells from stem cells to replace the damaged cells in the diseased retina. In addition, stem cells are able to perform multiple functions, such as immunoregulation, anti-apoptosis of neurons, and neurotrophin secretion. With recent progress in experimental stem cell applications, phase I/II clinical trials have been approved. These latest stem cell transplantation studies showed that this therapy is a promising approach to restore visual function in eyes with degenerative retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardts’ macular dystrophy, and age-related macular degeneration. This review focuses on new developments in stem cell therapy for degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Öner
- Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri, Turkey
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23
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McGill TJ, Wilson DJ, Stoddard J, Renner LM, Neuringer M. Cell Transplantation for Retinal Degeneration: Transition from Rodent to Nonhuman Primate Models. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:641-647. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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24
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Ben M'Barek K, Habeler W, Monville C. Stem Cell-Based RPE Therapy for Retinal Diseases: Engineering 3D Tissues Amenable for Regenerative Medicine. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:625-632. [PMID: 29721996 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Recent clinical trials based on human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium cells (hPSC-RPE cells) were clearly a success regarding safety outcomes. However the delivery strategy of a cell suspension, while being a smart implementation of a cell therapy, might not be sufficient to achieve the best results. More complex reconstructed tissue formulations are required, both to improve functionality and to target pathological conditions with altered Bruch's membrane like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Herein, we describe the various options regarding the stem cell source choices and the different strategies elaborated in the recent years to develop engineered RPE sheets amenable for regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Ben M'Barek
- INSERM UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS-I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Walter Habeler
- INSERM UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,UEVE UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France.,CECS-I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Christelle Monville
- INSERM UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France. .,UEVE UMR861, I-Stem, AFM, Corbeil-Essonnes, France.
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25
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Wu W, Zeng Y, Li Z, Li Q, Xu H, Yin ZQ. Features specific to retinal pigment epithelium cells derived from three-dimensional human embryonic stem cell cultures - a new donor for cell therapy. Oncotarget 2017; 7:22819-33. [PMID: 27009841 PMCID: PMC5008403 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplantation is a particularly promising treatment of retinal degenerative diseases affecting RPE-photoreceptor complex. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an abundant donor source for RPE transplantation. Herein, we studied the time-course characteristics of RPE cells derived from three-dimensional human ESCs cultures (3D-RPE). We showed that 3D-RPE cells possessed morphology, ultrastructure, gene expression profile, and functions of authentic RPE. As differentiation proceeded, 3D-RPE cells could mature gradually with decreasing proliferation but increasing functions. Besides, 3D-RPE cells could form polarized monolayer with functional tight junction and gap junction. When grafted into the subretinal space of Royal College of Surgeons rats, 3D-RPE cells were safe and efficient to rescue retinal degeneration. This study showed that 3D-RPE cells were a new donor for cell therapy of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuxiao Zeng
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zhengya Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qiyou Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zheng Qin Yin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.,Key Laboratory of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing 400038, China
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Surrao DC, Greferath U, Chau YQ, Skabo SJ, Huynh M, Shelat KJ, Limnios IJ, Fletcher EL, Liu Q. Design, development and characterization of synthetic Bruch's membranes. Acta Biomater 2017; 64:357-376. [PMID: 28951331 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness, and dry AMD has no effective treatment. Retinal constructs comprising retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells supported by electrospun scaffolds have been investigated to treat dry AMD. However, electrospun scaffolds studied to-date do not mimic the structural microenvironment of human Bruch's membrane (BM), essential for native-like RPE monolayers. The aim of this study was to develop a structurally biomimetic scaffold designed to support a functional RPE monolayer, comprising porous, electrospun nanofibrous membranes (ENMs), coated with laminin, mimicking the inner collagenous layer (ICL) and basal RPE lamina respectively, the cell supporting layers of the BM. In vitro evaluation showed 70nm PLLA ENMs adsorbed high amounts of laminin and supported functional RPE monolayers, exhibiting 3D polygonal-cobblestone morphology, apical microvilli, basal infoldings, high transepithelial resistance (TER), phagocytic activity and expression of signature RPE markers. 70nm PLLA ENMs were successfully implanted into the subretinal space of RCS-rdy+p+/LAV rats, also commonly know as rdy rats. At week 4, in the absence of immunosuppressants, implanted PLLA ENMs were surrounded by a significantly low number of activated microglial cells, compared to week 1, indicating no adverse long-term immune response. In conclusion, we successfully designed and tested ENMs emulating the RPE cell supporting layers of the BM, and found 70nm PLLA ENMs to be best suited as scaffolds for fabricating retinal constructs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the developed world, with an increasing number of people suffering from blindness or severe visual impairment. Transplantation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells supported on a synthetic, biomimetic-like Bruch's membrane (BM) is considered a promising treatment. However, the synthetic scaffolds used do not mimic the microenvironment of the RPE cell supporting layers, required for the development of a functional RPE monolayer. This study indicated that porous, laminin coated, 70nm PLLA ENMs supported functional RPE monolayers, exhibiting 3D polygonal-cobblestone morphology, apical microvilli, basal infoldings, high transepithelial resistance (TER), phagocytic activity and expression of signature RPE markers. These findings indicate the potential clinical use of porous, laminin coated, 70nm PLLA ENMs in fabricating retinal constructs aimed at treating dry AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denver C Surrao
- Clem Jones Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4229, Australia.
| | - Ursula Greferath
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Yu-Qian Chau
- Clem Jones Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4229, Australia
| | - Stuart J Skabo
- Clem Jones Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4229, Australia
| | - Mario Huynh
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Kinnari J Shelat
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF), Queensland Node, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ioannis J Limnios
- Clem Jones Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4229, Australia
| | - Erica L Fletcher
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Qin Liu
- Clem Jones Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD 4229, Australia
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Assessment of Safety and Functional Efficacy of Stem Cell-Based Therapeutic Approaches Using Retinal Degenerative Animal Models. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:9428176. [PMID: 28928775 PMCID: PMC5592015 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9428176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction and death of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and or photoreceptors can lead to irreversible vision loss. The eye represents an ideal microenvironment for stem cell-based therapy. It is considered an “immune privileged” site, and the number of cells needed for therapy is relatively low for the area of focused vision (macula). Further, surgical placement of stem cell-derived grafts (RPE, retinal progenitors, and photoreceptor precursors) into the vitreous cavity or subretinal space has been well established. For preclinical tests, assessments of stem cell-derived graft survival and functionality are conducted in animal models by various noninvasive approaches and imaging modalities. In vivo experiments conducted in animal models based on replacing photoreceptors and/or RPE cells have shown survival and functionality of the transplanted cells, rescue of the host retina, and improvement of visual function. Based on the positive results obtained from these animal experiments, human clinical trials are being initiated. Despite such progress in stem cell research, ethical, regulatory, safety, and technical difficulties still remain a challenge for the transformation of this technique into a standard clinical approach. In this review, the current status of preclinical safety and efficacy studies for retinal cell replacement therapies conducted in animal models will be discussed.
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Mishra A, Das B, Nath M, Iyer S, Kesarwani A, Bhattacharjee J, Arindkar S, Sahay P, Jain K, Sahu P, Sinha P, Velpandian T, Nagarajan P, Upadhyay P. A novel immunodeficient NOD.SCID -rd1 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa to investigate potential therapeutics and pathogenesis of retinal degeneration. Biol Open 2017; 6:449-462. [PMID: 28258056 PMCID: PMC5399550 DOI: 10.1242/bio.021618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a common retinal degeneration disease caused by mutation in any gene of the photo transduction cascade and results in photoreceptor dystrophy. Over decades, several animal models have been used to address the need for the elucidation of effective therapeutics and factors regulating retinal degeneration to prohibit or renew the damaged retina. However, controversies over the immune privilege of retina during cell transplantation and the role of immune modulation during RP still remain largely uninvestigated because of the lack of suitable animal models. Here, we have developed an immunocompromised mouse model, NOD.SCID-rd1, for retinitis pigmentosa (RP) by crossing CBA/J and NOD SCID mice and selecting homozygous double mutant animals for further breeding. Characterization of the newly developed RP model indicates a similar retinal degeneration pattern as CBA/J, with a decreased apoptosis rate and rhodopsin loss. It also exhibits loss of T cells, B cells and NK cells. The NOD.SCID-rd1 model is extremely useful for allogenic and xenogenic cell-based therapeutics, as indicated by the higher cell integration capacity post transplantation. We dissect the underlying role of the immune system in the progression of RP and the effect of immune deficiency on immune privilege of the eye using comparative qPCR studies of this model and the immune-competent RP model. Summary: NOD.SCID-rd1 is an immune compromised mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) to investigate cell-based therapeutics for retinal rescue during RP and to study immunological aspects of its pathogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaknanda Mishra
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Barun Das
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Madhu Nath
- Department of Ocular Pharmacology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Srikanth Iyer
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Ashwani Kesarwani
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Jashdeep Bhattacharjee
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Shailendra Arindkar
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Preeti Sahay
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Kshama Jain
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Parul Sahu
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Prakriti Sinha
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Thirumurthy Velpandian
- Department of Ocular Pharmacology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Perumal Nagarajan
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Pramod Upadhyay
- Product Development Cell-1, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
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Sorkio A, Haimi S, Verdoold V, Juuti-Uusitalo K, Grijpma D, Skottman H. Poly(trimethylene carbonate) as an elastic biodegradable film for human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2017; 11:3134-3144. [DOI: 10.1002/term.2221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anni Sorkio
- BioMediTech; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Suvi Haimi
- BioMediTech; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Technical Medicine and Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology; University of Twente; Enschede The Netherlands
| | - Vincent Verdoold
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Technical Medicine and Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology; University of Twente; Enschede The Netherlands
| | | | - Dirk Grijpma
- MIRA Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Technical Medicine and Department of Biomaterials Science and Technology; University of Twente; Enschede The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen; Groningen The Netherlands
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Satarian L, Nourinia R, Safi S, Kanavi MR, Jarughi N, Daftarian N, Arab L, Aghdami N, Ahmadieh H, Baharvand H. Intravitreal Injection of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Patients with Advanced Retinitis Pigmentosa; a Safety Study. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2017; 12:58-64. [PMID: 28299008 PMCID: PMC5340065 DOI: 10.4103/2008-322x.200164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the safety of a single intravitreal injection of autologous bone Marrow Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa (RP). METHODS A prospective, phase I, nonrandomized, open-label study was conducted on 3 eyes of 3 volunteers with advanced RP. Visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, fundus examination, optical coherence tomography, fundus auto-fluorescence, fluorescein angiography and multifocal electroretinography were performed before and after an intravitreal injection of approximately one-million MSCs. The patients were followed for one year. Further evaluation of MSCs was performed by injection of these cells into the mouse vitreous cavity. RESULTS No, adverse events were observed in eyes of 2 out of 3 patients after transplantation of MSCs. These patients reported improvements in perception of the light after two weeks, which lasted for 3 months. However, severe fibrous tissue proliferation was observed in the vitreous cavity and retrolental space of the third patient's eye, which led to tractional retinal detachment (TRD), iris neovascularization and formation of mature cataract. Injection of this patient's MSCs into the vitreous cavity of mice also resulted in fibrosis; however, intravitreal injections of the two other patients' cells into the mouse vitreous did not generate any fibrous tissue. CONCLUSION Intravitreal injection of autologous bone marrow MSCs into patients' eyes with advanced RP does not meet safety standards. Major side effects of this therapy can include fibrosis and TRD. We propose thorough evaluation of MSCs prior to transplantation by intravitreal injection in the laboratory animals.\.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Satarian
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Nourinia
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sare Safi
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Rezaei Kanavi
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Jarughi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narsis Daftarian
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Arab
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasser Aghdami
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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31
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Miyagishima KJ, Wan Q, Miller SS, Bharti K. A basis for comparison: sensitive authentication of stem cell derived RPE using physiological responses of intact RPE monolayers. STEM CELL AND TRANSLATIONAL INVESTIGATION 2017; 4:e1497. [PMID: 28286868 PMCID: PMC5341611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a monolayer of highly specialized cells that help maintain the chemical composition of its surrounding subretinal and choroidal extracellular spaces. Retinal cells (photoreceptors in particular), RPE, and choroidal endothelial cells together help ensure a homeostatically stable metabolic environment with exquisitely sensitive functional responses to light. Aging and disease of the RPE impairs its supportive functions contributing to the progressive loss of photoreceptors and vision. The prevalence of RPE associated retinal degenerations has prompted researchers to develop new therapies aimed at replacing the affected RPE with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) or embryonic stem cell (ESC) derived RPE. Despite recent attempts to characterize stem cell derived RPE and to truly authenticate RPE for clinical applications, there remains a significant unmet need to explore the heterogeneity resulting from donor to donor variation as well as the variations inherent in the current processes of cell manufacture. Additionally, it remains unknown whether the starting cell type influences the resulting RPE phenotype following reprogramming and differentiation. To address these questions, we performed a comprehensive evaluation (genomic, structural, and functional) of 15 iPSC derived RPE originating from different donors and tissues and compiled a reference data set for the authentication of iPSC-derived RPE and RPE derived from other stem cell sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoharu J. Miyagishima
- Section on Epithelial and Retinal Physiology and Disease, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Qin Wan
- Section on Epithelial and Retinal Physiology and Disease, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Sheldon S. Miller
- Section on Epithelial and Retinal Physiology and Disease, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Unit on Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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Sachdeva MM, Eliott D. Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Diseases of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium: From Bench to Bedside. Semin Ophthalmol 2016; 31:25-9. [PMID: 26959126 DOI: 10.3109/08820538.2015.1115253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) represents a leading cause of blindness in the elderly, and Stargardt's macular dystrophy (SMD) is the most common form of juvenile-onset macular degeneration. Dry AMD and SMD share an underlying pathophysiology, namely dysfunction and ultimately loss of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), suggesting that RPE transplantation may offer a potential treatment strategy for both patient populations. Stem cells have emerged as a promising source of replacement RPE. During the past 15 years, extraordinary strides have been made in the identification, characterization, and differentiation of stem cells. Recently, this large body of basic science and preclinical research has been translated to patient care with the publication of results from Phase 1/2 trials demonstrating safety of transplantation of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived RPE into patients with AMD and SMD. While significant challenges remain before dry AMD and SMD become treatable diseases, the goal has become more tangible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira M Sachdeva
- a Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Dean Eliott
- a Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The following review will provide an update on stem cell therapy with a focus on completed and ongoing human trials. RECENT FINDINGS Significant progress has brought stem cell therapy from proof-of-concept animal models to human clinical trials. Although in its infancy, valuable safety and efficacy data are starting to emerge from trials looking at cell therapies for age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt's macular dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa, and ischemic retinopathies. SUMMARY Although clinical trials continue to enroll and evaluate stem cell therapy in patients with retinal diseases, preliminary results using both cellular replacement and trophic models have provided initial support for this exciting therapy. Results of these pivotal trials will form a key foundation for moving forward toward the ultimate goal of preventing blinding disease.
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Song MJ, Bharti K. Looking into the future: Using induced pluripotent stem cells to build two and three dimensional ocular tissue for cell therapy and disease modeling. Brain Res 2016; 1638:2-14. [PMID: 26706569 PMCID: PMC4837038 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in developed countries. In many cases the diseases originate in the homeostatic unit in the back of the eye that contains the retina, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choriocapillaris. RPE is a central and a critical component of this homeostatic unit, maintaining photoreceptor function and survival on the apical side and choriocapillaris health on the basal side. In diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it is thought that RPE dysfunctions cause disease-initiating events and as the RPE degenerates photoreceptors begin to die and patients start loosing vision. Patient-specific induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived RPE provides direct access to a patient's genetics and allow the possibility of identifying the initiating events of RPE-associated degenerative diseases. Furthermore, iPS cell-derived RPE cells are being tested as a potential cell replacement in disease stages with RPE atrophy. In this article we summarize the recent progress in the field of iPS cell-derived RPE "disease modeling" and cell therapies and also discuss the possibilities of developing a model of the entire homeostatic unit to aid in studying disease processes in the future. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: PSC and the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jae Song
- Unit on Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research National Eye Institute, 10 Center Drive, Room 10B10, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Unit on Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research National Eye Institute, 10 Center Drive, Room 10B10, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States.
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Forest DL, Johnson LV, Clegg DO. Cellular models and therapies for age-related macular degeneration. Dis Model Mech 2016; 8:421-7. [PMID: 26035859 PMCID: PMC4415892 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.017236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex neurodegenerative visual disorder that causes profound physical and psychosocial effects. Visual impairment in AMD is caused by the loss of retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells and the light-sensitive photoreceptor cells that they support. There is currently no effective treatment for the most common form of this disease (dry AMD). A new approach to treating AMD involves the transplantation of RPE cells derived from either human embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells. Multiple clinical trials are being initiated using a variety of cell therapies. Although many animal models are available for AMD research, most do not recapitulate all aspects of the disease, hampering progress. However, the use of cultured RPE cells in AMD research is well established and, indeed, some of the more recently described RPE-based models show promise for investigating the molecular mechanisms of AMD and for screening drug candidates. Here, we discuss innovative cell-culture models of AMD and emerging stem-cell-based therapies for the treatment of this vision-robbing disease. Summary: Here, we discuss the emerging cell-culture models and potential stem-cell-based therapies for AMD, a blinding disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Forest
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9625, USA
| | - Lincoln V Johnson
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9625, USA
| | - Dennis O Clegg
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9625, USA
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Sugino IK, Sun Q, Springer C, Cheewatrakoolpong N, Liu T, Li H, Zarbin MA. Two Bioactive Molecular Weight Fractions of a Conditioned Medium Enhance RPE Cell Survival on Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Aged Bruch's Membrane. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2016; 5:8. [PMID: 26933521 PMCID: PMC4771074 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.5.1.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize molecular weight fractions of bovine corneal endothelial cell conditioned medium (CM) supporting retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell survival on aged and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) Bruch's membrane. METHODS CM was subject to size separation using centrifugal filters. Retentate and filtrate fractions were tested for bioactivity by analyzing RPE survival on submacular Bruch's membrane of aged and AMD donor eyes and behavior on collagen I-coated tissue culture wells. Protein and peptide composition of active fractions was determined by mass spectrometry. RESULTS Two bioactive fractions, 3-kDa filtrate and a 10-50-kDa fraction, were necessary for RPE survival on aged and AMD Bruch's membrane. The 3-kDa filtrate, but not the 10-50-kDa fraction, supported RPE growth on collagen 1-coated tissue culture plates. Mass spectrometry of the 10-50-kDa fraction identified 175 extracellular proteins, including growth factors and extracellular matrix molecules. Transforming growth factor (TGF)β-2 was identified as unique to active CM. Peptides representing 29 unique proteins were identified in the 3-KDa filtrate. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate there is a minimum of two bioactive molecules in CM, one found in the 3-kDa filtrate and one in the 10-50-kDa fraction, and that bioactive molecules in both fractions must be present to ensure RPE survival on Bruch's membrane. Mass spectrometry analysis suggested proteins to test in future studies to identify proteins that may contribute to CM bioactivity. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE Results of this study are the first steps in development of an adjunct to cell-based therapy to ensure cell transplant survival and functionality in AMD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilene K Sugino
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Qian Sun
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Carola Springer
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | | | - Tong Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Advanced Proteomics Research, Neuroproteomics Core Facility, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Advanced Proteomics Research, Neuroproteomics Core Facility, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Marco A Zarbin
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
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Dalkara D, Goureau O, Marazova K, Sahel JA. Let There Be Light: Gene and Cell Therapy for Blindness. Hum Gene Ther 2016; 27:134-47. [PMID: 26751519 PMCID: PMC4779297 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2015.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Retinal cell death is the main cause of vision loss in genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis, as well as in complex age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. For these blinding conditions, gene and cell therapy approaches offer therapeutic intervention at various disease stages. The present review outlines advances in therapies for retinal degenerative disease, focusing on the progress and challenges in the development and clinical translation of gene and cell therapies. A significant body of preclinical evidence and initial clinical results pave the way for further development of these cutting edge treatments for patients with retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - Katia Marazova
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, France
- Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DHOS CIC 1423, France
- Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
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38
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Zarbin M. Cell-Based Therapy for Degenerative Retinal Disease. Trends Mol Med 2016; 22:115-134. [PMID: 26791247 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2015.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors (PRs) have restored vision in preclinical models of human retinal degenerative disease. This review discusses characteristics of stem cell therapy in the eye and the challenges to clinical implementation that are being confronted today. Based on encouraging results from Phase I/II trials, the first Phase II clinical trials of stem cell-derived RPE transplantation are underway. PR transplant experiments have demonstrated restoration of visual function in preclinical models of retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration, but also indicate that no single approach is likely to succeed in overcoming PR loss in all cases. A greater understanding of the mechanisms controlling synapse formation as well as the immunoreactivity of transplanted retinal cells is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zarbin
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
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Nanoceria: a Potential Therapeutic for Dry AMD. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 854:111-8. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-17121-0_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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40
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Xu L, Nguyen JV, Lehar M, Menon A, Rha E, Arena J, Ryu J, Marsh-Armstrong N, Marmarou CR, Koliatsos VE. Repetitive mild traumatic brain injury with impact acceleration in the mouse: Multifocal axonopathy, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration in the visual system. Exp Neurol 2016; 275 Pt 3:436-449. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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41
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Cao J, Murat C, An W, Yao X, Lee J, Santulli-Marotto S, Harris IR, Inana G. Human umbilical tissue-derived cells rescue retinal pigment epithelium dysfunction in retinal degeneration. Stem Cells 2015; 34:367-79. [PMID: 26523756 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells perform many functions crucial for retinal preservation and vision. RPE cell dysfunction results in various retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Currently, there are no effective treatments for retinal degeneration except for a small percentage of individuals with exudative AMD. Cell therapies targeting RPE cells are being developed in the clinic for the treatment of retinal degeneration. Subretinal injection of human umbilical tissue-derived cells (hUTC) in the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat model of retinal degeneration was shown to preserve photoreceptors and visual function. However, the precise mechanism remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that hUTC rescue phagocytic dysfunction in RCS RPE cells in vitro. hUTC secrete receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), as well as opsonizing bridge molecules milk-fat-globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8), growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6), thrombospondin (TSP)-1, and TSP-2. The effect of hUTC on phagocytosis rescue in vitro is mimicked by recombinant human proteins of these factors and is abolished by siRNA-targeted gene silencing in hUTC. The bridge molecules secreted from hUTC bind to the photoreceptor outer segments and facilitate their ingestion by the RPE. This study elucidates novel cellular mechanisms for the repair of RPE function in retinal degeneration through RTK ligands and bridge molecules, and demonstrates the potential of using hUTC for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cao
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christopher Murat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Weijun An
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Xiang Yao
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, San Diego, California, USA
| | - John Lee
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Ian R Harris
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - George Inana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Ilmarinen T, Hiidenmaa H, Kööbi P, Nymark S, Sorkio A, Wang JH, Stanzel BV, Thieltges F, Alajuuma P, Oksala O, Kataja M, Uusitalo H, Skottman H. Ultrathin Polyimide Membrane as Cell Carrier for Subretinal Transplantation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143669. [PMID: 26606532 PMCID: PMC4659637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the suitability of ultrathin and porous polyimide (PI) membrane as a carrier for subretinal transplantation of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) -derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in rabbits. The in vivo effects of hESC-RPE cells were analyzed by subretinal suspension injection into Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats. Rat eyes were analyzed with electroretinography (ERG) and histology. After analyzing the surface and permeability properties of PI, subretinal PI membrane transplantations with and without hESC-RPE were performed in rabbits. The rabbits were followed for three months and eyes analyzed with fundus photography, ERG, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and histology. Animals were immunosuppressed with cyclosporine the entire follow-up time. In dystrophic RCS rats, ERG and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness showed some rescue after hESC-RPE injection. Cells positive for human antigen were found in clusters under the retina 41 days post-injection but not anymore after 105 days. In rabbits, OCT showed good placement of the PI. However, there was loss of pigmentation on the hESC-RPE-PI over time. In the eyes with PI alone, no obvious signs of inflammation or retinal atrophy were observed. In the presence of hESC-RPE, mononuclear cell infiltration and retinal atrophy were observed around the membranes. The porous ultrathin PI membrane was well-tolerated in the subretinal space and is a promising scaffold for RPE transplantation. However, the rejection of the transplanted cells seems to be a major problem and the given immunosuppression was insufficient for reduction of xenograft induced inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Peeter Kööbi
- Department of Ophthalmology, SILK, University of Tampere and Tays Eye Center, Tampere, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- Department of Electronics and Communications Engineering and BioMediTech, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anni Sorkio
- BioMediTech, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jing-Huan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, SILK, University of Tampere and Tays Eye Center, Tampere, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Hannu Uusitalo
- Department of Ophthalmology, SILK, University of Tampere and Tays Eye Center, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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Usui Y, Westenskow PD, Murinello S, Dorrell MI, Scheppke L, Bucher F, Sakimoto S, Paris LP, Aguilar E, Friedlander M. Angiogenesis and Eye Disease. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2015; 1:155-184. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-082114-035439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiko Usui
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Peter D. Westenskow
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
- The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Salome Murinello
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Michael I. Dorrell
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
- The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
- Department of Biology, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, California 92106
| | - Lea Scheppke
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Felicitas Bucher
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Susumu Sakimoto
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Liliana P. Paris
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Edith Aguilar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
| | - Martin Friedlander
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037; , , , , , , , , ,
- The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
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Responses of Multipotent Retinal Stem Cells to IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17. J Ophthalmol 2015; 2015:369312. [PMID: 26504591 PMCID: PMC4609432 DOI: 10.1155/2015/369312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose. To investigate how multipotent retinal stem cells (RSCs) isolated from mice respond to the proinflammatory signaling molecules, IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-17A. Materials and Methods. RSCs were cultured in a specific culture medium and were treated with these cytokines. Cell viability was detected by MTT assay; ultrastructure was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy; expression of IL-17rc and proapoptotic proteins was detected by immunocytochemistry and expression of Il-6 and Il-17a was detected by quantitative RT-PCR. As a comparison, primary mouse retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells were also treated with IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17A and analyzed for the expression of Il-6 and Il-17rc. Results. Treatment with IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17A decreased RSC viability in a dose-dependent fashion and led to damage in cellular ultrastructure including pyroptotic and/or necroptotic cells. IL-1β and IL-18 could induce proapoptotic protein expression. All treatments induced significantly higher expression of Il-6 and Il-17rc in both cells. However, neither IL-1β nor IL-18 could induce Il-17a expression in RSCs. Conclusions. IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-17A induce retinal cell death via pyroptosis/necroptosis and apoptosis. They also provoke proinflammatory responses in RSCs. Though IL-1β and IL-18 could not induce Il-17a expression in RSCs, they both increase Il-17rc expression, which may mediate the effect of Il-17a.
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Stem cell based therapies for age-related macular degeneration: The promises and the challenges. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 48:1-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Kirpichnikov MP, Ostrovskiy MA. [Optogenetics and prosthetic treatment of retinal degeneration]. Vestn Oftalmol 2015; 131:99-111. [PMID: 26310015 DOI: 10.17116/oftalma2015131399-111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This is a review of the current state of optogenetics-based research in the field of ophthalmology and physiology of vision. Optogenetics employs an interdisciplinary approach that amalgamates gene engineering, optics, and physiology. It involves exogenous expression of a light-activated protein in a very particular retinal cell enabling regulation (stimulation vs. inhibition) of its physiological activity. The experience with gene therapy came in very useful for optogenetics. However, unlike gene therapy, which is aimed at repairing damaged genes or replacing them with healthy ones, optogenetics is focused on protein genes delivery for further molecular control of the cell. In retina, the loss of photoreceptors is not necessarily followed by neuronal loss (at least ganglion cells remain intact), which determines the practicability of prosthetic treatment. Clinical trials can now be considered, owing to the first successful conversion of ganglion cells of mouse degenerative retinas into artificial photoreceptive cells with ON and OFF receptive fields, which is crucial for spatial vision. The following issues are reviewed here in detail: 1. Choice of cell targets within the degenerative retina. 2. Strategy of utilizing the existing light-sensitive agents and development of new optogenetic tools. 3. Gene delivery and expression in retinal cells. 4. Methods of evaluating the treatment success. 5. Selection criteria for optogenetic prosthetics. The conclusion discusses currently unsolved problems and prospects for optogenetic approaches to retinal prosthetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Kirpichnikov
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, 1 str. 12 Leninskie Gory, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119234; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya St., Moscow, Russian Federation, 117997
| | - M A Ostrovskiy
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, 1 str. 12 Leninskie Gory, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119234; Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 4 Kosygina St., Moscow, Russian Federation, 119334
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Sohn EH, Jiao C, Kaalberg E, Cranston C, Mullins RF, Stone EM, Tucker BA. Allogenic iPSC-derived RPE cell transplants induce immune response in pigs: a pilot study. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11791. [PMID: 26138532 PMCID: PMC4490339 DOI: 10.1038/srep11791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell strategies focused on replacement of RPE cells for the treatment of geographic atrophy are under intense investigation. Although the eye has long been considered immune privileged, there is limited information about the immune response to transplanted cells in the subretinal space of large animals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the survival of allogenic induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE cells (iPSC-RPE) delivered to the subretinal space of the pig as well as determine whether these cells induce an immune response in non-diseased eyes. GFP positive iPSC-RPE, generated from outbred domestic swine, were injected into the subretinal space of vitrectomized miniature swine. Control eyes received vehicle only. GFP positive iPSC-RPE cells were identified in the subretinal space 3 weeks after injection in 5 of 6 eyes. Accompanying GFP-negative cells positive for IgG, CD45 and macrophage markers were also identified in close proximity to the injected iPSC-RPE cells. All subretinal cells were negative for GFAP as well as cell cycle markers. We found that subretinal injection of allogenic iPSC-RPE cells into wild-type mini-pigs can induce the innate immune response. These findings suggest that immunologically matched or autologous donor cells should be considered for clinical RPE cell replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliott H Sohn
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Chunhua Jiao
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Emily Kaalberg
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Cathryn Cranston
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Edwin M Stone
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Stephen A Wynn Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
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Alvarez Palomo AB, McLenachan S, Chen FK, Da Cruz L, Dilley RJ, Requena J, Lucas M, Lucas A, Drukker M, Edel MJ. Prospects for clinical use of reprogrammed cells for autologous treatment of macular degeneration. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2015; 8:9. [PMID: 25984235 PMCID: PMC4432516 DOI: 10.1186/s13069-015-0026-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) in 2006, the symptoms of many human diseases have been reversed in animal models with iPSC therapy, setting the stage for future clinical development. From the animal data it is clear that iPSC are rapidly becoming the lead cell type for cell replacement therapy and for the newly developing field of iPSC-derived body organ transplantation. The first human pathology that might be treated in the near future with iPSC is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which has recently passed the criteria set down by regulators for phase I clinical trials with allogeneic human embryonic stem cell-derived cell transplantation in humans. Given that iPSC are currently in clinical trial in Japan (RIKEN) to treat AMD, the establishment of a set of international criteria to make clinical-grade iPSC and their differentiated progeny is the next step in order to prepare for future autologous cell therapy clinical trials. Armed with clinical-grade iPSC, we can then specifically test for their threat of cancer, for proper and efficient differentiation to the correct cell type to treat human disease and then to determine their immunogenicity. Such a rigorous approach sets a far more relevant paradigm for their intended future use than non-clinical-grade iPSC. This review focuses on the latest developments regarding the first possible use of iPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells in treating human disease, covers data gathered on animal models to date and methods to make clinical-grade iPSC, suggests techniques to ensure quality control and discusses possible clinical immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Belen Alvarez Palomo
- Control of Pluripotency Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Lions Eye Institute), University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science (Lions Eye Institute), University of Western Australia, 2 Verdun Street, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Lyndon Da Cruz
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, 162 City Road, London, EC1V 2PD England
| | - Rodney J Dilley
- Ear Sciences Centre, 1 Salvado Rd, Subiaco, WA 6008 Australia ; School of Surgery, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Jordi Requena
- Control of Pluripotency Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michaela Lucas
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia ; PathWest, SCGH Laboratories Hospital Ave, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Andrew Lucas
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Building 390, Discovery Way, Murdoch, Perth, WA 6150 Australia
| | - Micha Drukker
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Centre for Environmental Health (GmbH), Institute of Stem Cell Research, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Michael J Edel
- Control of Pluripotency Laboratory, Department of Physiological Sciences I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain ; Division of Pediatrics and Child Health, Westmead Children's Hospital, Corner Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145 Australia ; School of Anatomy, Physiology & Human Biology and Centre for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine (CCTRM), University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands, WA 6009 Australia
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49
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Regenerating Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells to Cure Blindness: A Road Towards Personalized Artificial Tissue. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2015; 1:79-91. [PMID: 26146605 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-015-0014-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a polarized monolayer tissue that functions to support the health and integrity of retinal photoreceptors (PRs). RPE atrophy has been linked to pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in elderly in the USA. RPE atrophy in AMD leads to the PR cell death and vision loss. It is thought that replacing diseased RPE with healthy RPE tissue can prevent PR cell death. Retinal surgical innovations have provided proof-of-principle data that autologous RPE tissue can replace diseased macular RPE and provide visual rescue in AMD patients. Current efforts are focused on developing an in vitro tissue using natural and synthetic scaffolds to generate a polarized functional RPE monolayer. In the future, these tissue-engineering approaches combined with pluripotent stem cell technology will lead to the development of personalized and "off-the-shelf" cell therapies for AMD patients. This review summarizes the historical development and ongoing efforts in surgical and in vitro tissue engineering techniques to develop a three-dimensional therapeutic native RPE tissue substitute.
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50
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Leach LL, Clegg DO. Concise Review: Making Stem Cells Retinal: Methods for Deriving Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Implications for Patients With Ocular Disease. Stem Cells 2015; 33:2363-73. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay L. Leach
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Molecular; Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California; Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Dennis O. Clegg
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Neuroscience Research Institute, Department of Molecular; Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California; Santa Barbara California USA
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