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Sun D, Zhang X, Chen R, Sang T, Li Y, Wang Q, Xie L, Zhou Q, Dou S. Decoding cellular plasticity and niche regulation of limbal stem cells during corneal wound healing. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:201. [PMID: 38971839 PMCID: PMC11227725 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03816-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunction or deficiency of corneal epithelium results in vision impairment or blindness in severe cases. The rapid and effective regeneration of corneal epithelial cells relies on the limbal stem cells (LSCs). However, the molecular and functional responses of LSCs and their niche cells to injury remain elusive. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on corneal tissues from normal mice and corneal epithelium defect models. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to confirm the distinct characteristics and cell fates of LSCs. Knockdown of Creb5 and OSM treatment experiment were performed to determine their roles of in corneal epithelial wound healing. RESULTS Our data defined the molecular signatures of LSCs and reconstructed the pseudotime trajectory of corneal epithelial cells. Gene network analyses characterized transcriptional landmarks that potentially regulate LSC dynamics, and identified a transcription factor Creb5, that was expressed in LSCs and significantly upregulated after injury. Loss-of-function experiments revealed that silencing Creb5 delayed the corneal epithelial healing and LSC mobilization. Through cell-cell communication analysis, we identified 609 candidate regeneration-associated ligand-receptor interaction pairs between LSCs and distinct niche cells, and discovered a unique subset of Arg1+ macrophages infiltrated after injury, which were present as the source of Oncostatin M (OSM), an IL-6 family cytokine, that were demonstrated to effectively accelerate the corneal epithelial wound healing. CONCLUSIONS This research provides a valuable single-cell resource and reference for the discovery of mechanisms and potential clinical interventions aimed at ocular surface reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Sun
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaowen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Rong Chen
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Tian Sang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ya Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Shengqian Dou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
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2
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Samelska K, Kupis M, Szymanek K, Izdebska J, Zaleska-Żmijewska A, Skopiński P. The immunology of corneal limbal stem cells: the up-to-date approach to stem cell transplantation. Cent Eur J Immunol 2023; 48:245-250. [PMID: 37901870 PMCID: PMC10604637 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2023.132033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal epithelial stem cells (LSC, LESC) are multipotent cells used as regenerative treatment of the cornea in patients with limbal epithelial stem cell deficiency (LSCD, LESCD). There are different types of stem cell grafting including cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CET) and simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET). The outcomes of the techniques have been assessed as similar, with differences in the sample size required during the procedures. The most important culture components for stem cell cultivation include 3T3 murine fibroblasts, human amniotic membrane (HAM), fibrin gel, and culture medium. The culture medium may be enriched with serum or not; however, xenobiotic-free materials are preferred because of the low risk of pathogen transmission. Multiple studies have defined molecules important for maintaining the function of LSC including C/EBP δ, Bmi-1, p63 α, interleukins (IL-6), epithelial structural proteins - keratins, and antibodies against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The cell phenotype of LSC has been described with factors of transplantation success rate such as a high percentage of p63 positive cells. The article emphasizes the role of recipient tissue preparation, modern cultivation techniques and pathophysiological processes in LSC transplantation effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Samelska
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre, Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kupis
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre, Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Szymanek
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- ACL Vision Ophthalmologists – Specialized Ophthalmic Ambulatory, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Izdebska
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre, Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Zaleska-Żmijewska
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre, Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Skopiński
- SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
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3
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Lee JY, Knight RJ, Deng SX. Future regenerative therapies for corneal disease. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2023; 34:267-272. [PMID: 36602407 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000938] [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: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To highlight the progress and future direction of stem-cell based regenerative therapies for the treatment of corneal disease. RECENT FINDINGS Corneal stem cell-based therapies, such as limbal stem cell transplantation, corneal stromal stem cell transplantation, endothelial stem cell transplantation, and stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles have demonstrated promising results in the laboratory. Although most are still in preclinical development or early phase clinical trials, these stem cell-based therapies hold potential to facilitate tissue regeneration, restore native function, and inhibit pathologic disease processes such as fibrosis, inflammation, and neovascularization. SUMMARY Stem cell-based therapy offers a promising therapeutic option that can circumvent several of the challenges and limitations of traditional surgical treatment. This concise review summarizes the progress in stem-cell based therapies for corneal diseases along with their history, underlying mechanisms, limitations, and future areas for development.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Y Lee
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Robert J Knight
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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4
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Oh JH, Cho S, Choi JA. Clinical Signs of Kawasaki Disease from the Perspective of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Recruiting Erythrocytes: A Literature Review. Rev Cardiovasc Med 2023; 24:109. [PMID: 39076265 PMCID: PMC11273048 DOI: 10.31083/j.rcm2404109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis affecting children younger than 5 years of age. Early period in life is marked by rapid somatic growth with cell proliferation and immaturity of the immunity with dominant innate immune system. Coronary complications in KD are the most common acquired heart disease in children, yet the diagnosis of KD still depends on the clinical diagnostic criteria. Glossy red lips and conjunctival injection are characteristic signs enabling pediatricians to make the initial diagnosis of KD; however, little is known why these are so characteristic. The diagnostic criteria of KD seem to be scattered in seemingly irrelevant body systems such as the eyes, lips, skin, and heart. KD is classified as a connective tissue disease. Recently, red blood cells (RBCs) have emerged as important modulators in innate immune response. RBCs are reported to participate in extracellular matrix remodeling and upregulating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression in dermal fibroblasts. Also, fibroblast growth factors and microRNAs associated with fibrosis are drawing attention in KD. The cardinal signs of KD appear at the border of muco-cutaneous junction. Head and neck regions are abundant in tissues undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Interstitial carditis and valve insufficiency as well as coronary arterial lesions may complicate KD, and these lesions present in tissues that originated from epicardial progenitor cells by EMT. Having reviewed the recent research on KD, we presume that the signs of KD present at borders between keratinized and non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium where the EMT is still ongoing for the rapid somatic growth where RBCs are recruited as an innate immune response and to prevent excessive fibrosis in mucosa. KD presents scarcely in adults with somatic growth and immune maturation completed. In this review, we attempted to explain the reasons for the clinical manifestations of KD and to search for a link among the diagnostic clues in the perspective of EMT during the somatic growth and immune system maturation in children with KD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Hee Oh
- Department of Pediatrics, St.Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 16247 Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyun Cho
- Department of Dermatology, Boramae Medical Center, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, 07061 Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin A Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Laboratory of Visual Science, St.Vincent’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 16247 Seoul, Republic of Korea
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PAX6 Expression Patterns in the Adult Human Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030400. [PMID: 36766742 PMCID: PMC9913671 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Paired box 6 (PAX6), a nuclear transcription factor, determines the fate of limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) and maintains epithelial cell identity. However, the expression of PAX6 in limbal niche cells, primarily mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC), and melanocytes is scarce and not entirely clear. To distinctly assess the PAX6 expression in limbal niche cells, fresh and organ-cultured human corneoscleral tissues were stained immunohistochemically. Furthermore, the expression of PAX6 in cultured limbal cells was investigated. Immunostaining revealed the presence of PAX6-negative cells which were positive for vimentin and the melanocyte markers Melan-A and human melanoma black-45 in the basal layer of the limbal epithelium. PAX6 staining was not observed in the limbal stroma. Moreover, the expression of PAX6 was observed by Western blot in cultured LEPC but not in cultured LMSC or LM. These data indicate a restriction of PAX6 expression to limbal epithelial cells at the limbal stem cell niche. These observations warrant further studies for the presence of other PAX isoforms in the limbal stem cell niche.
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6
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Soleimani M, Cheraqpour K, Koganti R, Baharnoori SM, Djalilian AR. Concise Review: Bioengineering of Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:111. [PMID: 36671683 PMCID: PMC9855097 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is composed of nonkeratinized stratified squamous cells and has a significant turnover rate. Limbal integrity is vital to maintain the clarity and avascularity of the cornea as well as regeneration of the corneal epithelium. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) are located in the basal epithelial layer of the limbus and preserve this homeostasis. Proper functioning of LESCs is dependent on a specific microenvironment, known as the limbal stem cell niche (LSCN). This structure is made up of various cells, an extracellular matrix (ECM), and signaling molecules. Different etiologies may damage the LSCN, leading to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), which is characterized by conjunctivalization of the cornea. In this review, we first summarize the basics of the LSCN and then focus on current and emerging bioengineering strategies for LSCN restoration to combat LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Soleimani
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1336616351, Iran
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Kasra Cheraqpour
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1336616351, Iran
| | - Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Seyed Mahbod Baharnoori
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ali R. Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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7
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Masood F, Chang JH, Akbar A, Song A, Hu WY, Azar DT, Rosenblatt MI. Therapeutic Strategies for Restoring Perturbed Corneal Epithelial Homeostasis in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: Current Trends and Future Directions. Cells 2022; 11:3247. [PMID: 36291115 PMCID: PMC9600167 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells constitute an important cell population required for regeneration of the corneal epithelium. If insults to limbal stem cells or their niche are sufficiently severe, a disease known as limbal stem cell deficiency occurs. In the absence of functioning limbal stem cells, vision-compromising conjunctivalization of the corneal epithelium occurs, leading to opacification, inflammation, neovascularization, and chronic scarring. Limbal stem cell transplantation is the standard treatment for unilateral cases of limbal stem cell deficiency, but bilateral cases require allogeneic transplantation. Herein we review the current therapeutic utilization of limbal stem cells. We also describe several limbal stem cell markers that impact their phenotype and function and discuss the possibility of modulating limbal stem cells and other sources of stem cells to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic interventions. We finally consider several hurdles for widespread adoption of these proposed methodologies and discuss how they can be overcome to realize vision-restoring interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Masood
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Jin-Hong Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Anosh Akbar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Amy Song
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Wen-Yang Hu
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dimitri T. Azar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mark I. Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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8
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Polisetti N, Sharaf L, Reinhard T, Schlunck G. Isolation and ex vivo Expansion of Limbal Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4471. [PMID: 35978577 PMCID: PMC9350925 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC), a cellular component of the limbal stem cell niche, have the capability of determining the fate of limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC), which are responsible for the homeostasis of corneal epithelium. However, the isolation of these LMSC has proven to be difficult due to the small fraction of LMSC in the total limbal population, and primary cultures are always hampered by contamination with other cell types. We recently published the efficient isolation and functional characterization of LMSC from the human corneal limbus using CD90 as a selective marker. We observed that flow sorting yielded a pure population of LMSC with superior self-renewal capacity and transdifferentiation potential, and supported the maintenance of the LEPC phenotype. Here, we describe an optimized protocol for the isolation of LMSC from cadaveric corneal limbal tissue by combined collagenase digestion and flow sorting with expansion of LMSC on plastic. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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*For correspondence:
| | - Lyne Sharaf
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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9
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O'Callaghan AR, Shortt AJ, Lewis MP, Daniels JT. Human Oral Mucosal Fibroblasts from Limbal Stem Cell Deficient Patients as an Autologous Feeder Layer for Epithelial Cell Culture. Curr Eye Res 2022; 47:1106-1115. [PMID: 35577415 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2071944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate if human oral mucosal fibroblasts (HOMF) from patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) can be used as an autologous feeder layer to support the culture of epithelial cells for potential clinical use. METHODS HOMF were isolated from oral mucosal biopsies obtained from the following groups of patients with LSCD: aniridia, mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and ectodermal dysplasia (ED). The ability of these cells to support the culture of human limbal epithelial cells (HLE) was compared to that of HOMF from non-LSCD donors and 3T3s commonly used to culture epithelial cells for use in the clinic to treat LSCD. RESULTS HOMF were successfully obtained by explant culture for 3/3 aniridia patients, 3/3 MMP patients, 1/3 SJS patients, and 1/1 ED patients. All HOMF cultured from these LSCD groups supported the expansion of HLE with epithelial culture times and total colony forming efficiency (CFE) comparable to those achieved on HOMF isolated from donors without LSCD. PCR showed that all HLE cultured on LSCD donor HOMF expressed p63α, CK15, PAX6, CK12, and MUC16 as did HLE cultured on the control non-LSCD donor HOMF and 3T3s. Western blotting detected CK15 and MUC16 protein expression in all groups. CONCLUSIONS HOMF from patients with LSCD can be successfully used to support the expansion of epithelial cells. These cells may therefore be useful as autologous feeder fibroblasts for the expansion of epithelial cells for use in the clinic to treat LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna R O'Callaghan
- Cells for Sight, University College London, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alex J Shortt
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mark P Lewis
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Musculoskeletal Biology Research Group, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Julie T Daniels
- Cells for Sight, University College London, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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10
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Efficient Isolation and Functional Characterization of Niche Cells from Human Corneal Limbus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052750. [PMID: 35269891 PMCID: PMC8911296 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fate decision of limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) at the human corneal limbus is determined by the surrounding microenvironment with limbal niche cells (LNC) as one of its essential components. Research on freshly isolated LNC which mainly include limbal mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC) and limbal melanocytes (LM) has been hampered by a lack of efficient protocols to isolate and purify these cells. We devised a protocol for rapid retrieval of pure LMSC, LM and LEPC populations by collagenase digestion of limbal tissue and subsequent fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) using antibodies against CD90 and CD117. The sorted cells were characterized by immunophenotyping and functional assays. The effects of LMSC and LM on LEPC were studied in 3D co-cultures and LEPC differentiation status was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Enzymatic digestion and flow sorting yielded pure populations of LMSC (CD117−CD90+), LM (CD117+CD90−), and LEPC (CD117−CD90−). The LMSC exhibited self-renewal capacity (55.0 ± 4.6 population doublings), expressed mesenchymal stem cell markers (CD73, CD90, CD105, and CD44), and transdifferentiated to adipocytes, osteocytes, or chondrocytes. The LM exhibited self-renewal capacity and sustained melanin production. The sorted LEPC expressed epithelial progenitor markers (CK14, CK19, and CK15) and showed a colony-forming ability. Co-cultivation of LMSC and LM with LEPC resulted in a 4–5-layered stratified epithelium and supported the preservation of a LEPC phenotype, as reflected by increased p63+ and Ki67+ cells and decreased CK12+ cells compared with LEPC monocultures. A highly efficient isolation of pure LM, LMSC, and LEPC populations from a single preparation may allow for direct transcriptomic and proteomic profiling as well as functional studies on native unpassaged LNC, which can be considered as proper equivalents of LNC in vivo. The developed biomimetic 3D co-culture method could provide an experimental model for investigating the functional role of LNC in the limbal stem cell niche.
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11
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Bonnet C, González S, Roberts JS, Robertson SYT, Ruiz M, Zheng J, Deng SX. Human limbal epithelial stem cell regulation, bioengineering and function. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 85:100956. [PMID: 33676006 PMCID: PMC8428188 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is continuously renewed by limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs), a cell population harbored in a highly regulated niche located at the limbus. Dysfunction and/or loss of LSCs and their niche cause limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a disease that is marked by invasion of conjunctival epithelium into the cornea and results in failure of epithelial wound healing. Corneal opacity, pain, loss of vision, and blindness are the consequences of LSCD. Successful treatment of LSCD depends on accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease and requires restoration of functional LSCs and their niche. This review highlights the major advances in the identification of potential LSC biomarkers and components of the LSC niche, understanding of LSC regulation, methods and regulatory standards in bioengineering of LSCs, and diagnosis and staging of LSCD. Overall, this review presents key points for researchers and clinicians alike to consider in deepening the understanding of LSC biology and improving LSCD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Bonnet
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA; Cornea Department, Paris University, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, F-75014, Paris, France
| | - Sheyla González
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - JoAnn S Roberts
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sarah Y T Robertson
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Maxime Ruiz
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jie Zheng
- Basic Science Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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12
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Latta L, Figueiredo FC, Ashery-Padan R, Collinson JM, Daniels J, Ferrari S, Szentmáry N, Solá S, Shalom-Feuerstein R, Lako M, Xapelli S, Aberdam D, Lagali N. Pathophysiology of aniridia-associated keratopathy: Developmental aspects and unanswered questions. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:245-266. [PMID: 34520870 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Aniridia, a rare congenital disease, is often characterized by a progressive, pronounced limbal insufficiency and ocular surface pathology termed aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). Due to the characteristics of AAK and its bilateral nature, clinical management is challenging and complicated by the multiple coexisting ocular and systemic morbidities in aniridia. Although it is primarily assumed that AAK originates from a congenital limbal stem cell deficiency, in recent years AAK and its pathogenesis has been questioned in the light of new evidence and a refined understanding of ocular development and the biology of limbal stem cells (LSCs) and their niche. Here, by consolidating and comparing the latest clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss key unanswered questions regarding ocular developmental aspects crucial to AAK. We also highlight hypotheses on the potential role of LSCs and the ocular surface microenvironment in AAK. The insights thus gained lead to a greater appreciation for the role of developmental and cellular processes in the emergence of AAK. They also highlight areas for future research to enable a deeper understanding of aniridia, and thereby the potential to develop new treatments for this rare but blinding ocular surface disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Latta
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - F C Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - R Ashery-Padan
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - J M Collinson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - J Daniels
- Cells for Sight, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - S Ferrari
- The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy
| | - N Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf. M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - S Solá
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - R Shalom-Feuerstein
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - M Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - S Xapelli
- Instituto Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - D Aberdam
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM U1138, Team 17, France; Université de Paris, 75006, Paris, France.
| | - N Lagali
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Ophthalmology, Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Arendal, Norway.
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13
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Polisetti N, Gießl A, Zenkel M, Heger L, Dudziak D, Naschberger E, Stich L, Steinkasserer A, Kruse FE, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U. Melanocytes as emerging key players in niche regulation of limbal epithelial stem cells. Ocul Surf 2021; 22:172-189. [PMID: 34425298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Limbal melanocytes (LMel) represent essential components of the corneal epithelial stem cell niche and are known to protect limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LEPCs) from UV damage by transfer of melanosomes. Here, we explored additional functional roles for LMel in niche homeostasis, immune regulation and angiostasis. METHODS Human corneoscleral tissues were morphologically analyzed in normal, inflammatory and wound healing conditions. The effects of LMel on LEPCs were analyzed in direct and indirect co-culture models using electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry, qRT-PCR, Western blotting and functional assays; limbal mesenchymal stromal cells and murine embryonic 3T3 fibroblasts served as controls. The immunophenotype of LMel was assessed by flow cytometry before and after interferon-γ stimulation, and their immunomodulatory properties were analyzed by mixed lymphocytes reaction, monocyte adhesion assays and cytometric bead arrays. Their angiostatic effects on human umbilical cord endothelial cells (HUVECs) were evaluated by proliferation, migration, and tube formation assays. RESULTS LMel and LEPCs formed structural units in the human limbal stem cell niche in situ, which could be functionally replicated, including melanosome transfer, by co-cultivation in vitro. LMel supported LEPCs during clonal expansion and during epithelial wound healing by stimulating proliferation and migration, and suppressed their differentiation through direct contact and paracrine effects. Under inflammatory conditions, LMel were increased in numbers and upregulated expression of ICAM-1 and MHC II molecules (HLA-DR), but lacked expression of HLA-G, -DP, -DQ and costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86. They were also found to be potent suppressors of alloreactive T- cell proliferation and cytokine secretion, which largely depended on direct cell-cell interaction. Moreover, the LMel secretome exerted angiostatic activity by inhibiting vascular endothelial cell proliferation and capillary network formation. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that LMel are not only professional melanin-producing cells, but exert various non-canonical functions in limbal niche homeostasis by regulating LEPC maintenance, immune responses, and angiostasis. Their potent regulatory, immunomodulatory and anti-angiogenic properties may have important implications for future regenerative cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Eye Center, Medical Center - Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Gießl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias Zenkel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lukas Heger
- Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Diana Dudziak
- Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany; Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Naschberger
- Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Translational Research Center, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lena Stich
- Department of Immune Modulation, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alexander Steinkasserer
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany; Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Immune Modulation, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Friedrich E Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
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14
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Xiao YT, Qu JY, Xie HT, Zhang MC, Zhao XY. A Comparison of Methods for Isolation of Limbal Niche Cells: Maintenance of Limbal Epithelial Stem/Progenitor Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:16. [PMID: 33320169 PMCID: PMC7745628 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.14.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Limbal niche cells (LNCs) play a vital role in the maintenance of limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LESCs). Four methods have been reported to isolate and expand LNCs: digestion by collagenase alone (C-LNC), collagenase following dispase removal of the limbal epithelium (DC-LNC), dissection of dispase-isolated limbal epithelial sheets (D-LNC), and explant cultures of limbal stromal tissues (Ex-LNC). This study aimed to isolate LNCs using those four methods and to compare their capacity to maintain LESCs. Methods LNCs were isolated from the rat corneal limbus by the following methods: C-LNC, DC-LNC, D-LNC, and Ex-LNC. Quantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining were used to analyze the expression of embryonic stem cell (ESC) markers. The ability to maintain LESCs was assessed on the basis of colony-forming capacity and the expression of progenitor, proliferation, and differentiation markers in three-dimensional (3D) Matrigel and Transwell systems. Notch signaling of LESCs supported by different LNCs in Transwell inserts was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Results DC-LNCs exhibited lower expression of CK12 during isolation and expansion. Among P4-expanded LNCs, DC-LNCs expressed significantly higher levels of Sox2, Oct4, Nanog, and N-cadherin than C-LNCs, D-LNCs, and Ex-LNCs. Compared with other LNCs, DC-LNCs were more effective in maintaining LESCs with higher holoclone-forming efficiency, greater expression of ΔNp63α and Ki67, and lower expression of CK12. DC-LNCs were also more capable of downregulating Notch signaling of LESCs. Conclusions DC-LNCs were more effective in expressing ESC markers and maintaining LESCs compared to other LNCs. This study identifies an optimal method for the isolation of LNCs in tissue engineering and ocular surface reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Yu Qu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
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15
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Bonnet C, Roberts JS, Deng SX. Limbal stem cell diseases. Exp Eye Res 2021; 205:108437. [PMID: 33571530 PMCID: PMC8044031 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The function of limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs) is critical to maintain corneal epithelial homeostasis. Many external insults and intrinsic defects can be deleterious to LSCs and their niche microenvironment, resulting in limbal stem cell dysfunction or deficiency (LSCD). Ocular comorbidities, frequent in eyes with LSCD, can exacerbate the dysfunction of residual LSCs, and limit the survival of transplanted LSCs. Clinical presentation and disease evolution vary among different etiologies of LSCD. New ocular imaging modalities and molecular markers are now available to standardize the diagnosis criteria and stage the severity of the disease. Medical therapies may be sufficient to reverse the disease if residual LSCs are present. A stepwise approach should be followed to optimize the ocular surface, eliminate the causative factors and treat comorbid conditions, before considering surgical interventions. Furthermore, surgical options are selected depending on the severity and laterality of the disease. The standardized diagnostic criteria to stage the disease is necessary to objectively evaluate and compare the efficacy of the emerging customized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Bonnet
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA; Cornea Department, Paris University, Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, F-75014, Paris, France.
| | - JoAnn S Roberts
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Jabbehdari S, Yazdanpanah G, Kanu LN, Anwar KN, Shen X, Rabiee B, Putra I, Eslani M, Rosenblatt MI, Hematti P, Djalilian AR. Reproducible Derivation and Expansion of Corneal Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Therapeutic Applications. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:26. [PMID: 32742756 PMCID: PMC7354855 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.3.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose A reproducible protocol for the production of corneal mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (cMSCs) is necessary for potential clinical applications. We aimed to describe successful generation and expansion of cMSCs using an explant method. Methods Corneoscleral rims of human cadaveric eyes were divided into four pieces and used as explants to allow outgrowth of cMSCs (passage 0, or P0). The cells were subcultured at a 1:10 ratio until passage 5 (P5). The characteristics as well as therapeutic effects of expanded cMSCs were evaluated both in vitro, using a scratch assay, and in vivo using epithelial debridement and chemical injury mouse models. Results All explants demonstrated outgrowth of cells by 7 days. Although the initial outgrowth included mixed mesenchymal and epithelial cells, by P1 only cMSCs remained. By subculturing each flask at a ratio of 1:10, the potential yield from each cornea was approximately 12 to 16 × 1010 P5 cells. P5 cMSCs demonstrated the cell surface markers of MSCs. The secretome of P5 cMSCs induced faster closure of wounds in an in vitro scratch assay. Subconjunctival injection of P5 cMSCs in mouse models of mechanical corneal epithelial debridement or ethanol injury led to significantly faster wound healing and decreased inflammation, relative to control. Conclusions cMSCs can be reproducibly derived from human cadaveric corneas using an explant method and expanded with preservation of characteristics and corneal wound healing effects. Translational Relevance The results of our study showed that cMSCs produced using this scheme can be potentially used for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayena Jabbehdari
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ghasem Yazdanpanah
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Levi N Kanu
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Khandaker N Anwar
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Xiang Shen
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Behnam Rabiee
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ilham Putra
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Medi Eslani
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mark I Rosenblatt
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Peiman Hematti
- Department of Medicine and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ali R Djalilian
- Stem Cell Therapy and Corneal Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Hatano H, Goda T, Matsumoto A, Miyahara Y. Induced Proton Dynamics on Semiconductor Surfaces for Sensing Tight Junction Formation Enhanced by an Extracellular Matrix and Drug. ACS Sens 2019; 4:3195-3202. [PMID: 31763825 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.9b01635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
In the fields of tissue engineering and drug discovery, confirming the formation and maturation of epithelial cell tight junctions (TJs), which are necessary for blocking pathogenic invasion and absorption of nutrients and ions, at a high spatiotemporal resolution is essential. We previously developed a system of monitoring pH perturbation induced by weak acid exposure to cells cultured on an ion-sensitive field-effect transistor that enables a sensitive and specific detection of biomembrane injuries and TJ breakdowns caused by external stimuli such as nanomaterials and cytotoxins. In this study, we monitor time-lapse changes in the paracellular diffusion of growing epithelial cell monolayers using the pH perturbation assay as well as conventional permeability and trans-epithelial electrical resistance assays. The effects of the extracellular matrix and a TJ potentiator (KN-93) on epithelial TJ formation are evaluated. TJ formations were promoted on the substrate coated with Matrigel more than on the one coated with poly(l-lysine). KN-93 accelerated TJ formations in a dose-dependent manner. The pH perturbation assay denoted a longer incubation time for the completion of TJ formation compared with the conventional assays under the same conditions. Importantly, the pH perturbation assay is able to rigorously evaluate TJ formation, as the assay uses protons as the smallest indicator for detecting paracellular gaps, and the pH perturbation is specific to TJ alterations. These features for in vitro TJ evaluation using proton dynamics are advantageous for applications in tissue engineering and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Hatano
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Goda
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
- Nano Innovation Institute, Inner Mongolia University for Nationalities, No. 22 Huoline Street, Tongliao, Inner Mongolia 028000, P. R. China
| | - Akira Matsumoto
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, 705-1 Shimoimaizumi, Ebina, Kanagawa 243-0435, Japan
| | - Yuji Miyahara
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
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18
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Duan CY, Xie HT, Zhao XY, Xu WH, Zhang MC. Limbal niche cells can reduce the angiogenic potential of cultivated oral mucosal epithelial cells. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2019; 24:3. [PMID: 30988673 PMCID: PMC6448320 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-018-0133-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial transplantation (COMET) is an important treatment for limbal stem cell deficiency. However, peripheral corneal neovascularization after surgery hinders its application. This study aims to employ a culture system using allogenic limbal niche cells (LNCs) instead of mouse-derived 3T3 cells as a feeder layer that could relieve postoperative neovascularization. Methods Rat oral mucosal epithelial cells (OMECs) were co-cultured with rat LNCs or 3T3 cells. Cultivated oral mucosal epithelial cells (COMECs) of different culture systems were identified by hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunocytochemistry. The expression levels of the angiogenesis-related factors were analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blotting/ELISA. Angiogenic potential was reconfirmed by cell viability and tube formation assays with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results COMECs were obtained from both culture systems successfully. Immunocytochemistry showed approximately equal percentages of positive staining cells for p63α (p = 0.9177), ABCG2 (p = 0.526), Ki67 (p = 0.0987), and CK3 (p = 0.4000) in COMECs of different groups. RT-qPCR and western blotting/ELISA showed that COMECs of the LNC group expressed a significantly lower amount of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) (p = 0.0038 for RT-qPCR, p = 0.0026 for western blotting) but more pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) (p = 0.0172 for RT-qPCR, p = 0.0253 for western blotting) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) (p < 0.0001 for RT-qPCR, p = 0.0064 for ELISA) than the COMECs of the 3T3 group. Furthermore, compared with COMECs of the 3T3 group, COMECs of the LNC group could reduce the viability (p = 0.0002) and tube formation (p = 0.0002) of HUVECs. Conclusions LNCs could substitute 3T3 cells for expanding OMECs in vitro, and the COMECs obtained in this system are less likely to induce postsurgical neovascularization, which provides an alternative option for an ex vivo culture system and promotes the application of COMET. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s11658-018-0133-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Wen-Han Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022 China
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19
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Duan CY, Xie HT, Zhao XY, Zhang MC. Limbal niche cells: a novel feeder cell for autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial transplantation. Regen Med 2018; 14:49-62. [PMID: 30572808 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2018-0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To establish a culture system using conspecific limbal niche cells (LNCs) as feeders for autologous cultivated oral mucosal epithelial transplantation (COMET). MATERIALS & METHODS Rabbit oral epithelial sheets, harvested from culture systems containing LNCs or 3T3 cells, were transplanted onto limbal stem cell-deficient rabbit eyes (COMET-3T3 or COMET-LNCs). RESULTS After COMET, corneas were relatively restored, with the exception of mild neovascularization in one cornea of the COMET-3T3 group. CD34 was detected in COMET-3T3 group corneas. Corneas of the COMET-LNCs group expressed high levels of PEDF and sFlt-1, but low levels of bFGF, compared with expression in COMET-3T3 corneas. CONCLUSION The culture system containing conspecific LNC feeders could substitute for the 3T3 cell system and decrease the risk of neovascularization after COMET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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20
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Zhao XY, Xie HT, Duan CY, Li J, Zhang MC. Rat limbal niche cells can induce transdifferentiation of oral mucosal epithelial cells into corneal epithelial-like cells in vitro. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:256. [PMID: 30257715 PMCID: PMC6158850 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0996-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cultivated oral mucosal epithelial cells (OMECs) are widely used in the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) for their ocular reconstruction capability. As the most important component of the limbal microenvironment, limbal niche cells (LNCs) play a key role in the direction of stem cell differentiation. In this study, we investigated whether LNCs can induce the transdifferentiation of rat OMECs to corneal epithelial-like cells. METHODS We isolated OMECs and LNCs from rats by dispase and collagenase, respectively, to establish a three-dimensional or Transwell coculturing system. NIH-3T3 cells and renewed LNCs were also used as feeder layers in the Transwell system to compare their ability to support the OMECs. The airlift method was used for the culture of OMECs to obtain a stratified epithelial sheet. Cocultured OMECs were characterized by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The cocultured OMECs showed corneal epithelial-like morphology and expressed the corneal epithelial markers CK12 and Pax6 in most cocultured systems. Furthermore, we found that the expression level of CK12, Pax6, and proliferation marker Ki67 was upregulated when compared with that of other groups by renewing the LNCs in the Transwell system (p < 0.05, n = 3), suggesting that this might be a potential method for improving the efficiency of transdifferentiation. The obtained stratified epithelial sheet expressed CK3 and CK12. CONCLUSION Through coculturing OMECs and LNCs in vitro, we successfully cultivated corneal epithelial-like OMECs. This investigation is of great significance for the treatment of LSCD and ocular surface reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hua-Tao Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chao-Ye Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ming-Chang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Bremond-Gignac D, Copin H, Benkhalifa M. Corneal epithelial stem cells for corneal injury. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2018; 18:997-1003. [PMID: 30092649 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1508443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ocular surface diseases with limbal insufficiency represent a therapeutic challenge for restoring vision. This corneal deficiency includes both classical ocular diseases (as chemical burns) and rare ocular diseases (as congenital aniridia and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid). AREAS COVERED Our understanding of limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) has increased the potential for treatment options. Pharmacological treatment strategies (as regenerating agent ophthalmic solutions) and especially surgical treatment strategies are available. Isolated LESCs can be produced by limbal primary cultures obtained from explants or cell suspensions. We review the latest cornea surgery techniques. EXPERT OPINION The adjunction of human limbal mesenchymal cells as a support for limbal stem cell primary cultures appears to be of great interest. Recently, human-induced pluripotent stem cells have allowed the generation of minicorneal organoids. This potential means of creating a three-dimensional cornea with in vitro maturation opens up important research areas for corneal regeneration therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Bremond-Gignac
- a Ophthalmology Department , University Hospital Necker-Enfants Malades , Paris , France.,b CNRS FR3636 , Paris V René Descartes University , Paris , France
| | - Henri Copin
- c Reproductive Medicine, Developmental Biology & Reproduction , University Hospital & School of Medicine, Picardie University Jules Verne , Amiens , France
| | - Moncef Benkhalifa
- c Reproductive Medicine, Developmental Biology & Reproduction , University Hospital & School of Medicine, Picardie University Jules Verne , Amiens , France
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Limbal and Conjunctival Epithelial Cell Cultivation on Contact Lenses-Different Affixing Techniques and the Effect of Feeder Cells. Eye Contact Lens 2017; 43:162-167. [PMID: 27058829 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000000259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Corneal blindness due to limbal stem-cell deficiency can be treated by transplantation of cultivated limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs). We examined LESC cultivation on a contact lens (CL) carrier. Our goal was to optimize explant affixation and assess the possible benefit of 3T3 feeder cells. METHODS Human cadaver limbal and conjunctival explants were allowed to attach to CLs under the airflow of the laminar box (dried group) or affixed on CLs using suturing (sutured group) or tissue adhesives (glued group), then cultivated with or without 3T3 feeder cells. Outgrowth efficiency was statistically analyzed. CEBPδ, p63, CK3/12, and CK13 were detected by immunofluorescence in expanded cells. RESULTS Suturing and gluing provided excellent sample attachment, whereas drying was less effective. Cell expansion was better in sutured than in dried or glued samples. Presence of 3T3 feeder resulted in significantly better cell growth (P=0.048), most importantly in dried samples (P=0.008). Stepwise regression analysis indicated that cell expansion was dependent on the affixing method (P<0.001) and the presence of feeder layer (P=0.003). Expanded cells maintained their CK expression profiles and expressed putative stem-cell markers p63 and CEBPδ. The 3T3 feeder did not influence the expression of putative LESC markers or growth rate. CONCLUSIONS Suturing is an effective way to fasten explants to CLs. 3T3 fibroblasts are not necessary in this system, although they may enhance cell outgrowth when samples are exposed to stress. However, once cells begin to expand, neither expression of putative stem-cell markers nor growth rate is influenced by feeder cells.
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Shirzadeh E, Heidari Keshel S, Ezzatizadeh V, Jabbehdari S, Baradaran-Rafii A. Unrestricted somatic stem cells, as a novel feeder layer: Ex vivo culture of human limbal stem cells. J Cell Biochem 2017; 119:2666-2678. [PMID: 29087592 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo culture of limbal stem cells (LSCs) is a current promising approach for reconstruction of the ocular surface. In this context, 3T3 feeder layer cells (mouse embryo fibroblast) are generally utilized to maintain and expand LSCs. The aim of this study is to develop a novel culture method (animal-derived products free) to expand LSCs, using umbilical cord derived human unrestricted somatic stem cells (hUSSCs) instead of 3T3 cell with an emphasis on maintaining of the Stemness in LSCs. Using flow-cytometer, isolated hUSSCs were characterized for CD105, CD90, CD166, CD34, CD45, CD31 cell surface markers and their differentiation capability into adipogenic as well as osteogenic lineages were evaluated. In addition to colony-forming efficiency (CFE), epithelial lineage differentiation and karyotyping, LSC properties were evaluated for ABCG2, ΔNP63-α, CK19, CK3, and CK12 mRNA and protein expressions using quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunocytochemistry, when these cells were co-cultured with hUSSCs (in comparison with 3T3 feeder layer). LSCs, co-cultured with hUSSCs, showed normal karyotype (46, XX), while they could efficiently form colony (86 ± 3) and display up-regulation of the genes associated with stemness and down-regulation of corneal epithelial differentiation genes. Consistent with 3T3 feeder cells, hUSSCs with spindle-shaped morphology and quick splitting up properties had ability to preserve the stem like-cell phenotype of LSCs. These findings were confirmed by qRT-PCR and flow-cytometer. Findings of present study suggest hUSSCs as a promising alternative method for 3T3 feeder layer cells, to preserve growth and stemness of LSCs ex vivo culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Shirzadeh
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Saeed Heidari Keshel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Ezzatizadeh
- Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology at Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Medical Genetics Department, Royesh Medical Laboratory Centre, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayena Jabbehdari
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Baradaran-Rafii
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mei H, González S, Nakatsu MN, Baclagon ER, Chen FV, Deng SX. Human adipose-derived stem cells support the growth of limbal stem/progenitor cells. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186238. [PMID: 29020119 PMCID: PMC5636133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The most efficient method to expand limbal stem cells (LSCs) in vitro for clinical transplantation is to culture single LSCs directly on growth-arrested mouse fibroblast 3T3 cells. To reduce possible xenobiotic contamination from 3T3s, primary human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) were examined as feeder cells to support the expansion of LSCs in vitro. To optimize the ASC-supported culture, freshly isolated limbal epithelial cells in the form of single cells (SC-ASC) or cell clusters (CC-ASC) were cultured using three different methods: LSCs seeded directly on feeder cells, a 3-dimensional (3D) culture system and a 3D culture system with fibrin (fibrin 3D). The expanded LSCs were examined at the end of a 2-week culture. The standard 3T3 culture served as control. Expansion of SC-ASC showed limited proliferation and exhibited differentiated morphology. CC-ASC generated epithelial cells with undifferentiated morphology in all culture methods, among which CC-ASC in 3D culture supported the highest cell doubling (cells doubled 9.0 times compared to cells doubled 4.9 times in control) while maintained the percentage of putative limbal stem/progenitor cells compared to the control. There were few cell-cell contacts between cultured LSCs and ASCs in 3D CC-ASC. In conclusion, ASCs support the growth of LSCs in the form of cell clusters but not in single cells. 3D CC-ASC could serve as a substitute for the standard 3T3 culture to expand LSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Mei
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Sheyla González
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Martin N. Nakatsu
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Elfren R. Baclagon
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Felix V. Chen
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- UCLA College of Letters and Science, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Sophie X. Deng
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Fernández-Pérez J, Binner M, Werner C, Bray LJ. Limbal stromal cells derived from porcine tissue demonstrate mesenchymal characteristics in vitro. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6377. [PMID: 28743889 PMCID: PMC5527094 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06898-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stromal cells (LSCs) from the human ocular surface display mesenchymal stromal cell characteristics in vitro. In this study, we isolated cells from the porcine limbal stroma (pLSCs), characterised them, and evaluated their ability to support angiogenesis and the culture of porcine limbal epithelial stem cells (pLESCs). The isolated cells adhered to plastic and grew in monolayers in vitro using serum-supplemented or serum-free medium. The pLSCs demonstrated expression of CD29, and cross-reactivity with anti-human CD45, CD90, CD105, CD146, and HLA-ABC. However, expression of CD105, CD146 and HLA-ABC reduced when cultured in serum-free medium. PLSCs did not undergo adipogenic or osteogenic differentiation, but differentiated towards the chondrogenic lineage. Isolated cells were also co-cultured with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in star-shaped Poly(ethylene glycol) (starPEG)-heparin hydrogels to assess their pericyte capacity which supported angiogenesis networks of HUVECs. PLSCs supported the three dimensional HUVEC network for 7 days. The isolated cells were further growth-arrested and evaluated as feeder cells for pLESC expansion on silk fibroin membranes, as a potential carrier material for transplantation. PLSCs supported the growth of pLESCs comparably to murine 3T3 cells. In conclusion, although pLSCs were not completely comparable to their human counterpart, they display several mesenchymal-like characteristics in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fernández-Pérez
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Center of Regenerative Therapies, Hohe Straße 6, Dresden, Saxony, 01069, Germany.,Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marcus Binner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Center of Regenerative Therapies, Hohe Straße 6, Dresden, Saxony, 01069, Germany
| | - Carsten Werner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Center of Regenerative Therapies, Hohe Straße 6, Dresden, Saxony, 01069, Germany.,Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Saxony, 01069, Germany
| | - Laura J Bray
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Center of Regenerative Therapies, Hohe Straße 6, Dresden, Saxony, 01069, Germany. .,Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Queensland, 4059, Kelvin Grove, Australia.
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Existence of Normal Limbal Epithelium in Eyes With Clinical Signs of Total Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Cornea 2017; 35:1483-1487. [PMID: 27362882 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000000914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the presence of normal limbal epithelium detected by in vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy (IVCM) in 3 cases of clinically diagnosed total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). METHODS This is a retrospective case report consisting of 3 patients who were diagnosed with total LSCD based on clinical examination and/or impression cytology. Clinical data including ocular history, presentation, slit-lamp examination, IVCM, and impression cytology were reviewed. RESULTS The etiology was chemical burn in 3 cases. One patient had 2 failed penetrating keratoplasties. Another had allogeneic keratolimbal transplantation, but the graft failed 1 year after surgery. The third patient had failed amniotic membrane transplantation. These 3 patients presented with signs of total LSCD including the absence of normal Vogt palisades, complete superficial vascularization of the peripheral cornea, nonhealing epithelial defects, and corneal scarring. Impression cytology was performed in 2 cases to confirm the presence of goblet cells. However, each patient still had distinct areas of corneal and/or limbal epithelial cells detected by IVCM. CONCLUSIONS Residual normal limbal epithelial cells could be present in eyes with clinical features of total LSCD. IVCM seems to be a more accurate method to evaluate the degree of LSCD.
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Afsharkhamseh N, Ghahari E, Eslani M, Djalilian AR. A Simple Mechanical Procedure to Create Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency in Mouse. J Vis Exp 2016. [PMID: 27911382 DOI: 10.3791/54658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a state of malfunction or loss of limbal epithelial stem cells, after which the corneal epithelium is replaced with conjunctiva. Patients suffer from recurrent corneal defects, pain, inflammation, and loss of vision. Previously, a murine model of LSCD was described and compared to two other models. The goal was to produce a consistent mouse model of LSCD that both mimics the phenotype in humans and lasts long enough to make it possible to study the disease pathophysiology and to evaluate new treatments. Here, the technique is described in more detail. A motorized tool with a rotating burr has been designed to remove the rust rings from the corneal surface or to smooth the pterygium bed in patients. It is a suitable device to create the desired LSCD model. It is a readily available, easy-to-use tool with a fine tip that makes it appropriate for working on small eyes, as in mice. Its application prevents unnecessary trauma to the eye and it does not result in unwanted injuries, as often is the case with chemical injury models. As opposed to a blunt scraper, it removes the epithelium with the basement membrane. In this protocol, the limbal area was abraded two times, and then the whole corneal epithelium was shaved from limbus to limbus. To avoid stroma injury, care was taken not to brush the corneal surface once the epithelium was already removed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Afsharkhamseh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Elham Ghahari
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Medi Eslani
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Ali R Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago;
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Dziasko MA, Daniels JT. Anatomical Features and Cell-Cell Interactions in the Human Limbal Epithelial Stem Cell Niche. Ocul Surf 2016; 14:322-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Suri K, Gong HK, Yuan C, Kaufman SC. Human Platelet Lysate as a Replacement for Fetal Bovine Serum in Limbal Stem Cell Therapy. Curr Eye Res 2016; 41:1266-1273. [PMID: 26863375 DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2015.1116586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the use of human platelet lysate (HPL) as an alternative supplement for limbal explant culture. METHODS Culture media were prepared using either 10% pooled HPL (PHPL), single donor HPL, or fetal bovine serum (FBS). Limbal tissues, obtained from the Minnesota Lions Eye Bank, were cultured in each medium on plastic plates or on denuded amniotic membrane (AM). Immunofluorescence staining was performed for ABCG2, tumor protein p63α, and cytokeratin 3 (K3). Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate the expression of ABCG2 and p63. Limbal explants grown in each medium were labeled with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to assess the proliferative capacity in each medium. Concentration of growth factors including epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) in HPL and PHPL was compared to that in human serum (HS). RESULTS Immunofluorescence staining on AM showed prominent expression of ABCG2, p63α but sparse expression of K3 in HPL and PHPL supplemented medium. Real time-PCR showed 1.7 fold higher expression of ABCG2 in PHPL supplemented medium (p = 0.03), and similar expression of p63 in HPL and PHPL supplemented medium compared to FBS medium. The proliferation assay showed that LSCs retained their proliferative potential in HPL supplemented medium. Higher concentration of growth factors were found in HPL, compared to HS. CONCLUSIONS Human platelet lysate has higher concentration of grown factors and is effective in maintaining growth and stem cell phenotype of corneal limbal explant cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal Suri
- a Department of Ophthalmology , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Hwee K Gong
- a Department of Ophthalmology , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Ching Yuan
- a Department of Ophthalmology , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Stephen C Kaufman
- a Department of Ophthalmology , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA.,b State University of New York-Downstate Medical Center , Brooklyn , NY , USA
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30
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González S, Mei H, Nakatsu MN, Baclagon ER, Deng SX. A 3D culture system enhances the ability of human bone marrow stromal cells to support the growth of limbal stem/progenitor cells. Stem Cell Res 2016; 16:358-64. [PMID: 26896856 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2016.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard method of cultivating limbal epithelial progenitor/stem cells (LSCs) on a monolayer of mouse 3T3 feeder cells possesses the risk of cross-contamination in clinical applications. Human feeder cells have been used to eliminate this risk; however, efficiency from xenobiotic-free cultures on a monolayer appears to be lower than in the standard method using 3T3 cells. We investigated whether bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), also known as bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, could serve as feeder cells for the expansion of LSCs in the 3-dimensional (3D) system. Primary single human LSCs on a monolayer of 3T3s served as the control. Very poor growth was observed when single LSCs were cultured on BMSCs. When LSC clusters were cultured on a BMSC monolayer (CC-BM), 3D culture system (3D CC-BM) and fibrin 3D system (fibrin 3D CC-BM), the 3D CC-BM method supported a greater LSC expansion. The 3D CC-BM system produced a 2.5-fold higher cell growth rate than the control (p<0.05). The proportion of K14(+) and p63α(bright) cells was comparable to those in the control (p>0.05), whereas the proportion of K12(+) cells was lower (p<0.05). These results indicate that BMSCs can efficiently support the expansion of the LSC population in the 3D culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheyla González
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hua Mei
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Martin N Nakatsu
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Elfren R Baclagon
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Cornea Division, Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: Current Treatment Options and Emerging Therapies. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:9798374. [PMID: 26788074 PMCID: PMC4691643 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9798374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe ocular surface disease can result in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a condition leading to decreased visual acuity, photophobia, and ocular pain. To restore the ocular surface in advanced stem cell deficient corneas, an autologous or allogenic limbal stem cell transplantation is performed. In recent years, the risk of secondary LSCD due to removal of large limbal grafts has been significantly reduced by the optimization of cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET). Despite the great successes of CLET, there still is room for improvement as overall success rate is 70% and visual acuity often remains suboptimal after successful transplantation. Simple limbal epithelial transplantation reports higher success rates but has not been performed in as many patients yet. This review focuses on limbal epithelial stem cells and the pathophysiology of LSCD. State-of-the-art therapeutic management of LSCD is described, and new and evolving techniques in ocular surface regeneration are being discussed, in particular, advantages and disadvantages of alternative cell scaffolds and cell sources for cell based ocular surface reconstruction.
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Human corneal stromal stem cells support limbal epithelial cells cultured on RAFT tissue equivalents. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16186. [PMID: 26531048 PMCID: PMC4632025 DOI: 10.1038/srep16186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human limbal epithelial cells (HLE) and corneal stromal stem cells (CSSC) reside in close proximity in vivo in the corneal limbal stem cell niche. However, HLE are typically cultured in vitro without supporting niche cells. Here, we re-create the cell-cell juxtaposition of the native environment in vitro, to provide a tool for investigation of epithelial-stromal cell interactions and to optimize HLE culture conditions for potential therapeutic application. RAFT (Real Architecture For 3D Tissue) tissue equivalents (TEs) were used as a 3-dimensional substrate for co-culturing HLE and CSSC. Our results demonstrate that a monolayer of HLE that maintained expression of p63α, ABCB5, CK8 and CK15 (HLE markers), formed on the surface of RAFT TEs within 13 days of culture. CSSC remained in close proximity to HLE and maintained expression of mesenchymal stem cell markers. This simple technique has a short preparation time of only 15 days with the onset of HLE layering and differentiation observed. Furthermore, co-cultivation of HLE with another niche cell type (CSSC) directly on RAFT TEs, eliminates the requirement for animal-derived feeder cells. RAFT TEs may be useful for future therapeutic delivery of multiple cell types to restore the limbal niche following ocular surface injury or disease.
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Murataeva N, Li S, Oehler O, Miller S, Dhopeshwarkar A, Hu SSJ, Bonanno JA, Bradshaw H, Mackie K, McHugh D, Straiker A. Cannabinoid-induced chemotaxis in bovine corneal epithelial cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015; 56:3304-13. [PMID: 26024113 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-15675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cannabinoid CB1 receptors are found in abundance in the vertebrate eye, with most tissue types expressing this receptor. However, the function of CB1 receptors in corneal epithelial cells (CECs) is poorly understood. Interestingly, the corneas of CB1 knockout mice heal more slowly after injury via a mechanism proposed to involve protein kinase B (Akt) activation, chemokinesis, and cell proliferation. The current study examined the role of cannabinoids in CEC migration in greater detail. METHODS We determined the role of CB1 receptors in corneal healing. We examined the consequences of their activation on migration and proliferation in bovine CECs (bCECs). We additionally examined the mRNA profile of cannabinoid-related genes and CB1 protein expression as well as CB1 signaling in bovine CECs. RESULTS We now report that activation of CB1 with physiologically relevant concentrations of the synthetic agonist WIN55212-2 (WIN) induces bCEC migration via chemotaxis, an effect fully blocked by the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716. The endogenous agonist 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) also enhances migration. Separately, mRNA for most cannabinoid-related proteins are present in bovine corneal epithelium and cultured bCECs. Notably absent are CB2 receptors and the 2-AG synthesizing enzyme diglycerol lipase-α (DAGLα). The signaling profile of CB1 activation is complex, with inactivation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Lastly, CB1 activation does not induce bCEC proliferation, but may instead antagonize EGF-induced proliferation. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we find that CB1-based signaling machinery is present in bovine cornea and that activation of this system induces chemotaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Murataeva
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Shimin Li
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Olivia Oehler
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Sally Miller
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Amey Dhopeshwarkar
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Sherry Shu-Jung Hu
- Department of Psychology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Joseph A Bonanno
- School of Optometry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Heather Bradshaw
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Ken Mackie
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
| | - Douglas McHugh
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, North Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Alex Straiker
- The Gill Center for Biomolecular Science and the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States
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Dziasko MA, Tuft SJ, Daniels JT. Limbal melanocytes support limbal epithelial stem cells in 2D and 3D microenvironments. Exp Eye Res 2015; 138:70-9. [PMID: 26142953 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) are essential for the maintenance of the corneal epithelium of the ocular surface. LESCs are located within limbal crypts between the palisades of Vogt in the limbus; the interface between the peripheral cornea and conjunctiva. The limbal crypts have been proposed as a LESC niche owing to their support of epithelial cells, which can form holoclone colonies in vitro. Closely associated with the limbal crypts is a concentrated population of melanocytes. The anatomical location and close proximity to putative LESC suggests that melanocytes might play a role in maintenance of these stem cells in the niche. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of human limbal melanocytes (hLM) to support the expansion of human limbal epithelial cells (LECs) in vitro as an indicator of functional cell-cell interaction. After observing that hLM co-localize with clusters of compact epithelial cells in the native limbal crypts, hLM were isolated from crypt-rich cadaveric limbal biopsies and used as feeders for the culture of LECs. Interestingly, LECs grown on mitotically active hLM were able to generate large epithelial colonies that contained small and compact cells with morphological stem cell characteristics. Immunocytochemistry revealed that LECs expanded on hLM were positive for the expression of the putative stem cell markers CK15, Bmi-1 and p63α and negative for the marker of terminal cell differentiation CK3. LECs and hLM were finally co-cultured on RAFT (real architecture for 3D tissue) collagen tissue equivalents. In 3D co-cultures, hLM promoted multi-layering of the epithelial sheet in which basal cells were maintained in an undifferentiated state. Taken together, these observations suggest melanocytes could play an important role in the maintenance of LESCs in the native human limbal stem cell niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc A Dziasko
- Department of Ocular Biology and Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Stephen J Tuft
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Julie T Daniels
- Department of Ocular Biology and Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom.
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Yu FS, Yin J, Lee P, Hwang FS, McDermott M. Sensory nerve regeneration after epithelium wounding in normal and diabetic cornea. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2015; 10:383-392. [PMID: 28446923 DOI: 10.1586/17469899.2015.1049157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is the most densely innervated mammalian tissue. The sensory nerves are responsible for sensations of dryness, temperature, touch, and pain, and play important roles in the blink reflex, wound healing, and tear production. Many ocular and systemic diseases can adversely affect corneal sensory nerve and consequently impair their function. One of such systemic diseases is diabetes mellitus (DM) which causes sensory degeneration, neurotrophic keratopathy (DNK), and delayed wound healing. In this review, we summarize recent discoveries revealing mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of DNK and the impairment of sensory nerve regeneration in post wound diabetic corneas in using animal model of human diabetes. Because it is generally believed that common mechanisms are operative in the pathogenesis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in different tissues, the findings in the corneas have implications in in other tissues such as the skin, which often leads to foot ulceration and amputation in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Shin Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Jia Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Patrick Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Frank S Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
| | - Mark McDermott
- Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
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Hertsenberg AJ, Funderburgh JL. Stem Cells in the Cornea. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2015; 134:25-41. [PMID: 26310147 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is the tough, transparent tissue through which light first enters the eye and functions as a barrier to debris and infection as well as two-thirds of the refractive power of the eye. Corneal damage that is not promptly treated will often lead to scarring and vision impairment. Due to the limited options currently available to treat corneal scars, the identification and isolation of stem cells in the cornea has received much attention, as they may have potential for autologous, cell-based approaches to the treatment of damaged corneal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Hertsenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James L Funderburgh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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