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Jiang W, Xiao D, Wu C, Yang J, Peng X, Chen L, Zhang J, Zha G, Li W, Ju R, Xiang M, Xie Z. Circular RNA-based therapy provides sustained and robust neuroprotection for retinal ganglion cells. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102258. [PMID: 39045516 PMCID: PMC11264179 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Ocular neurodegenerative diseases like glaucoma lead to progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss, causing irreversible vision impairment. Neuroprotection is needed to preserve RGCs across debilitating conditions. Nerve growth factor (NGF) protein therapy shows efficacy, but struggles with limited bioavailability and a short half-life. Here we explore a novel approach to address this deficiency by utilizing circular RNA (circRNA)-based therapy. We show that circRNAs exhibit an exceptional capacity for prolonged protein expression and circRNA-expressed NGF protects cells from glucose deprivation. In a mouse optic nerve crush model, lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-formulated circNGF administered intravitreally protects RGCs and axons from injury-induced degeneration. It also significantly outperforms NGF protein therapy without detectable retinal toxicity. Furthermore, single-cell transcriptomics revealed LNP-circNGF's multifaceted therapeutic effects, enhancing genes related to visual perception while reducing trauma-associated changes. This study signifies the promise of circRNA-based therapies for treating ocular neurodegenerative diseases and provides an innovative intervention platform for other ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbing Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Dongchang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Cheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xinghua Peng
- Research and Development Center, Shenzhen MagicRNA Biotech, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Linfeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jiamin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Gaofeng Zha
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital. Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Wei Li
- Retinal Neurophysiology Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zhi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
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Huang D, Norat P, Qi L, Chernatynskaya A, Cole JD, Mani VJ, Xu L, Liu X, Yang H. Consistent Intraocular Pressure Reduction by Solid Drug Nanoparticles in Fixed Combinations for Glaucoma Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401648. [PMID: 38874068 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Efficient topical drug delivery remains a significant challenge in glaucoma management. Although nanoparticle formulations offer considerable promise, their complex preparation processes, co-delivery issues, and batch consistency have hindered their potential. A scalable fabrication strategy is developed here for preparing solid drug nanoparticles (SDNs) with enhanced drug delivery efficiency. Utilizing hydrophobic antiglaucoma drugs brimonidine (BM) and betaxolol (BX), uniform fixed combination BM/BX SDNs are fabricated through a continuous process, improving batch-to-batch consistency for combined glaucoma treatment. With trehalose being used as a lyoprotectant, BM/BX SDNs can be stored as dry powder and easily reconstituted in phosphate buffered saline. Importantly, reconstituted BM/BX SDNs form clear, homogenous solutions, and exhibit negligible cytotoxicity and irritation, making them well-suited for topical administration as eyedrops. Ex vivo and in vivo studies demonstrated that topically applied BM/BX SDNs permeate through the cornea significantly (about two fold to three fold) compared to their hydrophilic counterparts, i.e., brimonidine tartrate, and betaxolol hydrogen chloride. Notably, BM/BX SDNs displayed consistent intraocular pressure lowering effects in vivo in both normotensive rats and glaucoma mice. Collectively, this study demonstrates the potential of the scalable fabrication strategy and the resultant BM/BX SDNs for improving glaucoma management through eyedrops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Huang
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350108, China
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
| | - Pedro Norat
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Lin Qi
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
| | - Anna Chernatynskaya
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
| | - James D Cole
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Vimalin Jeyalatha Mani
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
| | - Lei Xu
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Hu Yang
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, 65409, USA
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Li X, Li C, Huang H, Bai D, Wang J, Chen A, Gong Y, Leng Y. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs combined with laser photocoagulation maintain retinal ganglion cell integrity in patients with diabetic macular edema: study protocol for a prospective, non-randomized, controlled clinical trial. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:923-928. [PMID: 37843230 PMCID: PMC10664114 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.382104] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of retinal ganglion cells is tightly associated with diabetic macular degeneration that leads to damage and death of retinal ganglion cells, affecting vision. The major clinical treatments for diabetic macular edema are anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs and laser photocoagulation. However, although the macular thickness can be normalized with each of these two therapies used alone, the vision does not improve in many patients. This might result from the incomplete recovery of retinal ganglion cell injury. Therefore, a prospective, non-randomized, controlled clinical trial was designed to investigate the effect of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs combined with laser photocoagulation on the integrity of retinal ganglion cells in patients with diabetic macular edema and its relationship with vision recovery. In this trial, 150 patients with diabetic macular edema will be equally divided into three groups according to therapeutic methods, followed by treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs, laser photocoagulation therapy, and their combination. All patients will be followed up for 12 months. The primary outcome measure is retinal ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness at 12 months after treatment. The secondary outcome measures include retinal ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness before and 1, 3, 6, and 9 months after treatment, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, best-corrected visual acuity, macular area thickness, and choroidal thickness before and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after treatment. Safety measure is the incidence of adverse events at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after treatment. The study protocol hopes to validate the better efficacy and safety of the combined treatment in patients with diabetic macula compared with the other two monotherapies alone during the 12-month follow-up period. The trial is designed to focus on clarifying the time-effect relationship between imaging measures related to the integrity of retinal ganglion cells and best-corrected visual acuity. The trial protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University with approval No. (2023)(26) on April 25, 2023, and was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: ChiCTR2300072478, June 14, 2023, protocol version: 2.0).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Dan Bai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Anqi Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yu Gong
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ying Leng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, Jilin, Jilin Province, China
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Cole JD, McDaniel JA, Nilak J, Ban A, Rodriguez C, Hameed Z, Grannonico M, Netland PA, Yang H, Provencio I, Liu X. Characterization of neural damage and neuroinflammation in Pax6 small-eye mice. Exp Eye Res 2024; 238:109723. [PMID: 37979905 PMCID: PMC10843716 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Aniridia is a panocular condition characterized by a partial or complete loss of the iris. It manifests various developmental deficits in both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye, leading to a progressive vision loss. The homeobox gene PAX6 plays an important role in ocular development and mutations of PAX6 have been the main causative factors for aniridia. In this study, we assessed how Pax6-haploinsufficiency affects retinal morphology and vision of Pax6Sey mice using in vivo and ex vivo metrics. We used mice of C57BL/6 and 129S1/Svlmj genetic backgrounds to examine the variable severity of symptoms as reflected in human aniridia patients. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) was observed in Pax6Sey mice starting from post-natal day 20 (P20). Correspondingly, visual acuity showed a steady age-dependent decline in Pax6Sey mice, though these phenotypes were less severe in the 129S1/Svlmj mice. Local retinal damage with layer disorganization was assessed at P30 and P80 in the Pax6Sey mice. Interestingly, we also observed a greater number of activated Iba1+ microglia and GFAP + astrocytes in the Pax6Sey mice than in littermate controls, suggesting a possible neuroinflammatory response to Pax6 deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Cole
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - John A McDaniel
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Joelle Nilak
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ashley Ban
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Zuhaad Hameed
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Marta Grannonico
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Peter A Netland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Hu Yang
- Linda and Bipin Doshi Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO, USA
| | - Ignacio Provencio
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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5
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Boccaccini A, Cavaterra D, Carnevale C, Tanga L, Marini S, Bocedi A, Lacal PM, Manni G, Graziani G, Sbardella D, Tundo GR. Novel frontiers in neuroprotective therapies in glaucoma: Molecular and clinical aspects. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101225. [PMID: 38000334 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, neuroprotective therapies have attracted the researcher interests as modern and challenging approach for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, aimed at protecting the nervous system from injuries. Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive excavation of the optic nerve head, retinal axonal injury and corresponding vision loss that affects millions of people on a global scale. The molecular basis of the pathology is largely uncharacterized yet, and the therapeutic approaches available do not change the natural course of the disease. Therefore, in accordance with the therapeutic regimens proposed for other neurodegenerative diseases, a modern strategy to treat glaucoma includes prescription of drugs with neuroprotective activities. With respect to this, several preclinical and clinical investigations on a plethora of different drugs are currently ongoing. In this review, first, the conceptualization of the rationale for the adoption of neuroprotective strategies for retina is summarized. Second, the molecular aspects highlighting glaucoma as a neurodegenerative disease are reported. In conclusion, the molecular and pharmacological properties of most promising direct neuroprotective drugs used to delay glaucoma progression are examined, including: neurotrophic factors, NMDA receptor antagonists, the α2-adrenergic agonist, brimonidine, calcium channel blockers, antioxidant agents, nicotinamide and statins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dario Cavaterra
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, Università di Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Marini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier n. 1, 00133, Roma, Italy
| | - Alessio Bocedi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, Università di Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Pedro M Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Manni
- IRCCS - Fondazione Bietti, Rome, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier n. 1, 00133, Roma, Italy
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier, 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Grazia Raffaella Tundo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier n. 1, 00133, Roma, Italy.
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6
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Zhang QQ, Qu Y. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in degenerative retinal diseases: Update and novel perspective. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1624-1632. [PMID: 37334646 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Dysfunction and death of neuronal cells are cardinal features of degenerative retinal diseases that are known to arise as the disease progresses. Increasingly evidence suggests that abnormal expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may serve as an obligatory relay of the dysfunction and death of neuronal cells in degenerative retinal diseases. Although disorder of BDNF, whether depletion or augmentation, has been connected with neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammation, the exact mechanisms underlying the effect of impaired BDNF expression on degenerative retinal diseases remain unclear. Here, we present an overview of how BDNF is linked to pathological mechanism of retinal degenerative diseases, summarize BDNF-based treatment strategies, and discuss possible research perspectives in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yi Qu
- Department of Geriatrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Madjedi KM, Stuart KV, Chua SYL, Ramulu PY, Warwick A, Luben RN, Sun Z, Chia MA, Aschard H, Wiggs JL, Kang JH, Pasquale LR, Foster PJ, Khawaja AP. The Association of Physical Activity with Glaucoma and Related Traits in the UK Biobank. Ophthalmology 2023; 130:1024-1036. [PMID: 37331483 PMCID: PMC10913205 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2023.06.009] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the association of physical activity (PA) with glaucoma and related traits, to assess whether genetic predisposition to glaucoma modified these associations, and to probe causal relationships using Mendelian randomization (MR). DESIGN Cross-sectional observational and gene-environment interaction analyses in the UK Biobank. Two-sample MR experiments using summary statistics from large genetic consortia. PARTICIPANTS UK Biobank participants with data on self-reported or accelerometer-derived PA and intraocular pressure (IOP; n = 94 206 and n = 27 777, respectively), macular inner retinal OCT measurements (n = 36 274 and n = 9991, respectively), and glaucoma status (n = 86 803 and n = 23 556, respectively). METHODS We evaluated multivariable-adjusted associations of self-reported (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) and accelerometer-derived PA with IOP and macular inner retinal OCT parameters using linear regression and with glaucoma status using logistic regression. For all outcomes, we examined gene-PA interactions using a polygenic risk score (PRS) that combined the effects of 2673 genetic variants associated with glaucoma. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Intraocular pressure, macular retinal nerve fiber layer (mRNFL) thickness, macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) thickness, and glaucoma status. RESULTS In multivariable-adjusted regression models, we found no association of PA level or time spent in PA with glaucoma status. Higher overall levels and greater time spent in higher levels of both self-reported and accelerometer-derived PA were associated positively with thicker mGCIPL (P < 0.001 for trend for each). Compared with the lowest quartile of PA, participants in the highest quartiles of accelerometer-derived moderate- and vigorous-intensity PA showed a thicker mGCIPL by +0.57 μm (P < 0.001) and +0.42 μm (P = 0.005). No association was found with mRNFL thickness. High overall level of self-reported PA was associated with a modestly higher IOP of +0.08 mmHg (P = 0.01), but this was not replicated in the accelerometry data. No associations were modified by a glaucoma PRS, and MR analyses did not support a causal relationship between PA and any glaucoma-related outcome. CONCLUSIONS Higher overall PA level and greater time spent in moderate and vigorous PA were not associated with glaucoma status but were associated with thicker mGCIPL. Associations with IOP were modest and inconsistent. Despite the well-documented acute reduction in IOP after PA, we found no evidence that high levels of habitual PA are associated with glaucoma status or IOP in the general population. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kian M Madjedi
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kelsey V Stuart
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon Y L Chua
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pradeep Y Ramulu
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Robert N Luben
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Zihan Sun
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Chia
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hugues Aschard
- Department of Computational Biology, Institute Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Janey L Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jae H Kang
- Brigham and Women's Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Louis R Pasquale
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Paul J Foster
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony P Khawaja
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science, London, United Kingdom.
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Sato K, Takada N, Fujioka A, Himori N, Yokoyama Y, Tsuda S, Omodaka K, Kirihara T, Ishikawa M, Kunikata H, Nakazawa T. Reduced Plasma BDNF Levels in Normal Tension Glaucoma Compared to Open Angle Glaucoma. J Glaucoma 2023; 32:734-737. [PMID: 37343190 PMCID: PMC10453350 DOI: 10.1097/ijg.0000000000002257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
PRCIS The study suggests that a low level of systemic BDNF may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma in an IOP-independent manner. AIMS To evaluate differences in systemic brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels between primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients and normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients. METHODS This study collected blood samples from 260 NTG patients, 220 age-matched POAG patients, and 120 age-matched cataract patients (as controls). BDNF levels were measured with an antibody-conjugated bead assay system (Luminex). RESULTS We found that plasma BDNF levels in the NTG group were significantly lower than in the POAG and cataract control groups. There was no significant difference between the POAG and cataract groups. CONCLUSION This result suggests that a low level of systemic BDNF may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma in an IOP-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Sato
- Departments of Ophthalmology
- Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine
| | | | | | - Noriko Himori
- Departments of Ophthalmology
- Department of Aging Vision Healthcare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Miyagi
| | | | | | | | - Tomoko Kirihara
- Ophthalmic Innovation Center, Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Osaka, Japan
| | | | | | - Toru Nakazawa
- Departments of Ophthalmology
- Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine
- Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics
- Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Miyagi, Japan
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Kovács-Valasek A, Rák T, Pöstyéni E, Csutak A, Gábriel R. Three Major Causes of Metabolic Retinal Degenerations and Three Ways to Avoid Them. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108728. [PMID: 37240082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
An imbalance of homeostasis in the retina leads to neuron loss and this eventually results in a deterioration of vision. If the stress threshold is exceeded, different protective/survival mechanisms are activated. Numerous key molecular actors contribute to prevalent metabolically induced retinal diseases-the three major challenges are age-related alterations, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These diseases have complex dysregulation of glucose-, lipid-, amino acid or purine metabolism. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on possible ways of preventing or circumventing retinal degeneration by available methods. We intend to provide a unified background, common prevention and treatment rationale for these disorders and identify the mechanisms through which these actions protect the retina. We suggest a role for herbal medicines, internal neuroprotective substances and synthetic drugs targeting four processes: parainflammation and/or glial cell activation, ischemia and related reactive oxygen species and vascular endothelial growth factor accumulation, apoptosis and/or autophagy of nerve cells and an elevation of ocular perfusion pressure and/or intraocular pressure. We conclude that in order to achieve substantial preventive or therapeutic effects, at least two of the mentioned pathways should be targeted synergistically. A repositioning of some drugs is considered to use them for the cure of the other related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Rák
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienne Csutak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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10
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Iezhitsa I, Lazaldin MM, Agarwal R, Agarwal P, Ismail N. Neuroprotective effects of exogenous brain-derived neurotrophic factor on amyloid-beta 1–40-induced retinal degeneration. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:382-388. [PMID: 35900434 PMCID: PMC9396500 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-beta (Aβ)-related alterations, similar to those found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, have been observed in the retina of patients with glaucoma. Decreased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are believed to be associated with the neurotoxic effects of Aβ peptide. To investigate the mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effects of BDNF on Aβ1–40-induced retinal injury in Sprague-Dawley rats, we treated rats by intravitreal administration of phosphate-buffered saline (control), Aβ1–40 (5 nM), or Aβ1–40 (5 nM) combined with BDNF (1 µg/mL). We found that intravitreal administration of Aβ1–40 induced retinal ganglion cell apoptosis. Fluoro-Gold staining showed a significantly lower number of retinal ganglion cells in the Aβ1–40 group than in the control and BDNF groups. In the Aβ1–40 group, low number of RGCs was associated with increased caspase-3 expression and reduced TrkB and ERK1/2 expression. BDNF abolished Aβ1–40-induced increase in the expression of caspase-3 at the gene and protein levels in the retina and upregulated TrkB and ERK1/2 expression. These findings suggest that treatment with BDNF prevents RGC apoptosis induced by Aβ1–40 by activating the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway in rats.
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11
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Gamal El-Deen A, Abd El-Hamid S, Farrag E. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and macular perfusion in type 2 diabetes mellitus using optical coherence tomography angiography. Taiwan J Ophthalmol 2023; 0:0. [DOI: 10.4103/tjo.tjo-d-22-00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
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12
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Xu K, Yu L, Wang Z, Lin P, Zhang N, Xing Y, Yang N. Use of gene therapy for optic nerve protection: Current concepts. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1158030. [PMID: 37090805 PMCID: PMC10117674 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1158030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy has become an essential treatment for optic nerve injury (ONI) in recent years, and great strides have been made using animal models. ONI, which is characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and axons, can induce abnormalities in the pupil light reflex, visual field defects, and even vision loss. The eye is a natural organ to target with gene therapy because of its high accessibility and certain immune privilege. As such, numerous gene therapy trials are underway for treating eye diseases such as glaucoma. The aim of this review was to cover research progress made in gene therapy for ONI. Specifically, we focus on the potential of gene therapy to prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and protect both RGCs and axons. We cover the basic information of gene therapy, including the classification of gene therapy, especially focusing on genome editing therapy, and then we introduce common editing tools and vector tools such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) -Cas9 and adeno-associated virus (AAV). We also summarize the progress made on understanding the roles of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), phosphatase-tensin homolog (PTEN), suppressor of cytokine signal transduction 3 (SOCS3), histone acetyltransferases (HATs), and other important molecules in optic nerve protection. However, gene therapy still has many challenges, such as misalignment and mutations, immunogenicity of AAV, time it takes and economic cost involved, which means that these issues need to be addressed before clinical trials can be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Pei Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ningzhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yiqiao Xing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Yiqiao Xing,
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Ning Yang,
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13
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Yu JY, Jeong DE, Joo JY, Kim ST. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness in macular telangiectasia type 2. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1927-1933. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02592-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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Mattern L, Otten K, Miskey C, Fuest M, Izsvák Z, Ivics Z, Walter P, Thumann G, Johnen S. Molecular and Functional Characterization of BDNF-Overexpressing Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Established by Sleeping Beauty Transposon-Mediated Gene Transfer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12982. [PMID: 36361771 PMCID: PMC9656812 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
More and more patients suffer from multifactorial neurodegenerative diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, their pathological mechanisms are still poorly understood, which complicates the development of effective therapies. To improve treatment of multifactorial diseases, cell-based gene therapy can be used to increase the expression of therapeutic factors. To date, there is no approved therapy for dry AMD, including late-stage geographic atrophy. We present a treatment option for dry AMD that transfers the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene into retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells by electroporation using the plasmid-based Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system. ARPE-19 cells and primary human RPE cells were co-transfected with two plasmids encoding the SB100X transposase and the transposon carrying a BDNF transcription cassette. We demonstrated efficient expression and secretion of BDNF in both RPE cell types, which were further increased in ARPE-19 cell cultures exposed to hydrogen peroxide. BDNF-transfected cells exhibited lower apoptosis rates and stimulated neurite outgrowth in human SH-SY5Y cells. This study is an important step in the development of a cell-based BDNF gene therapy that could be applied as an advanced therapy medicinal product to treat dry AMD or other degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Mattern
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Katrin Otten
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Csaba Miskey
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Matthias Fuest
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Peter Walter
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Thumann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Johnen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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15
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Wu J, Rountree CM, Kare SS, Ramkumar PK, Finan JD, Troy JB. Progress on Designing a Chemical Retinal Prosthesis. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:898865. [PMID: 35774083 PMCID: PMC9239740 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.898865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The last major review of progress toward a chemical retinal prosthesis was a decade ago. Many important advancements have been made since then with the aim of producing an implantable device for animal testing. We review that work here discussing the potential advantages a chemical retinal prosthesis may possess, the spatial and temporal resolutions it might provide, the materials from which an implant might be constructed and its likely effectiveness in stimulating the retina in a natural fashion. Consideration is also given to implant biocompatibility, excitotoxicity of dispensed glutamate and known changes to photoreceptor degenerate retinas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Corey M. Rountree
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sai-Siva Kare
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Pradeep Kumar Ramkumar
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - John D. Finan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - John B. Troy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: John B. Troy,
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16
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Gao J, Griner EM, Liu M, Moy J, Provencio I, Liu X. Differential effects of experimental glaucoma on intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells in mice. J Comp Neurol 2022; 530:1494-1506. [PMID: 34958682 PMCID: PMC9010357 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and optic nerve damage. Studies, including this study, support that RGCs degenerate and die in a type-specific manner following the disease insult. Here we specifically examined one RGC type, the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell (ipRGC), and its associated functional deficits in a mouse model of experimental glaucoma. We induced chronic ocular hypertension (OHT) by laser photocoagulation and then characterized the survival of ipRGC subtypes. We found that ipRGCs suffer significant loss, similar to the general RGC population, but ipRGC subtypes are differentially affected following chronic OHT. M4 ipRGCs, which are involved in pattern vision, are susceptible to chronic OHT. Correspondingly, mice with chronic OHT experience reduced contrast sensitivity and visual acuity. By comparison, M1 ipRGCs, which project to the suprachiasmatic nuclei to regulate circadian rhythmicity, exhibit almost no cell loss following chronic OHT. Accordingly, we observed that circadian re-entrainment and circadian rhythmicity are largely not disrupted in OHT mice. Our study demonstrates the link between subtype-specific ipRGC survival and behavioral deficits in glaucomatous mice. These findings provide insight into glaucoma-induced visual behavioral deficits and their underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Gao
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Erin M. Griner
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Mingna Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Joanna Moy
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ignacio Provencio
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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17
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Lambuk L, Mohd Lazaldin MA, Ahmad S, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Mediated Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: A Review of Current State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875662. [PMID: 35668928 PMCID: PMC9163364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are neurons of the visual system that are responsible for transmitting signals from the retina to the brain via the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by apoptotic loss of RGCs and degeneration of optic nerve fibers. Risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure and vascular dysregulation trigger the injury that culminates in RGC apoptosis. In the event of injury, the survival of RGCs is facilitated by neurotrophic factors (NTFs), the most widely studied of which is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its production is regulated locally in the retina, but transport of BDNF retrogradely from the brain to retina is also crucial. Not only that the interruption of this retrograde transport has been detected in the early stages of glaucoma, but significantly low levels of BDNF have also been detected in the sera and ocular fluids of glaucoma patients, supporting the notion that neurotrophic deprivation is a likely mechanism of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Moreover, exogenous NTF including BDNF administration was shown reduce neuronal loss in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases, indicating the possibility that exogenous BDNF may be a treatment option in glaucoma. Current literature provides an extensive insight not only into the sources, transport, and target sites of BDNF but also the intracellular signaling pathways, other pathways that influence BDNF signaling and a wide range of its functions. In this review, the authors discuss the neuroprotective role of BDNF in promoting the survival of RGCs and its possible application as a therapeutic tool to meet the challenges in glaucoma management. We also highlight the possibility of using BDNF as a biomarker in neurodegenerative disease such as glaucoma. Further we discuss the challenges and future strategies to explore the utility of BDNF in the management of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | | | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- TardigradeNano LLC, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Rohimah Mohamud,
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18
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Lee PY, Zhao D, Wong VHY, Chrysostomou V, Crowston JG, Bui BV. The Effect of Aging on Retinal Function and Retinal Ganglion Cell Morphology Following Intraocular Pressure Elevation. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:859265. [PMID: 35645783 PMCID: PMC9133539 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.859265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are two major risk factors for glaucomatous optic neuropathy; a condition characterized by the selective, progressive injury, and subsequent loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We examined how age modified the capacity for RGCs to functionally recover following a reproducible IOP elevation (50 mmHg for 30 min). We found that RGC functional recovery (measured using electroretinography) was complete by 7 days in 3-month-old mice but was delayed in 12-month-old mice until 14 days. At the 7-day recovery endpoint when RGC function had recovered in young but not older eyes, we examined RGC structural responses to IOP-related stress by analyzing RGC dendritic morphology. ON-RGC cell volume was attenuated following IOP elevation in both young and older mice. We also found that following IOP elevation OFF-RGC dendritic morphology became less complex per cell volume in young mice, an effect that was not observed in older eyes. Our data suggest that adaptations in OFF-RGCs in young eyes were associated with better functional recovery 7 days after IOP elevation. Loss of RGC cellular adaptations may account for delayed functional recovery in older eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Ying Lee
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Da Zhao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Vickie H. Y. Wong
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Vicki Chrysostomou
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore,Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jonathan G. Crowston
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore,Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bang V. Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia,*Correspondence: Bang V. Bui,
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19
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Cole JD, McHaney KM, Rabiee B, Gao J, Rodriguez C, Miller DA, Liu M, Grannonico M, Norat P, Zhang HF, Djalilian AR, Liu X. Long-term retinal protection by MEK inhibition in Pax6 haploinsufficiency mice. Exp Eye Res 2022; 218:109012. [PMID: 35245513 PMCID: PMC9050935 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109012] [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: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Aniridia is a panocular condition characterized by impaired eye development and vision, which is mainly due to the haploinsufficiency of the paired-box-6 (PAX6) gene. Like what is seen in aniridia patients, Pax6-deficient mice Pax6Sey-Neu/+ exhibit a varied degree of ocular damage and impaired vision. Our previous studies showed that these phenotypes were partially rescued by PD0325901, a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK or MAP2K) inhibitor. In this study, we assessed the long-term efficacy of PD0325901 treatment in retinal health and visual behavior. At about one year after the postnatal treatment with PD0325901, Pax6Sey-Neu/+ mice showed robust improvements in retina size and visual acuity, and the elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) was also alleviated, compared to age-matched mice treated with vehicles only. Moreover, the Pax6Sey-Neu/+ eyes showed disorganized retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon bundles and retinal layers, which we termed as hotspots. We found that the PD treatment reduced the number and size of hotspots in the Pax6Sey-Neu/+ retinas. Taken together, our results suggest that PD0325901 may serve as an efficacious intervention in protecting retina and visual function in aniridia-afflicted subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D Cole
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Kara M McHaney
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Behnam Rabiee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Nazareth Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jingyi Gao
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - David A Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Mingna Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Marta Grannonico
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Pedro Norat
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Hao F Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Ali R Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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20
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Boccuni I, Fairless R. Retinal Glutamate Neurotransmission: From Physiology to Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:638. [PMID: 35629305 PMCID: PMC9147752 DOI: 10.3390/life12050638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate neurotransmission and metabolism are finely modulated by the retinal network, where the efficient processing of visual information is shaped by the differential distribution and composition of glutamate receptors and transporters. However, disturbances in glutamate homeostasis can result in glutamate excitotoxicity, a major initiating factor of common neurodegenerative diseases. Within the retina, glutamate excitotoxicity can impair visual transmission by initiating degeneration of neuronal populations, including retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The vulnerability of RGCs is observed not just as a result of retinal diseases but has also been ascribed to other common neurodegenerative and peripheral diseases. In this review, we describe the vulnerability of RGCs to glutamate excitotoxicity and the contribution of different glutamate receptors and transporters to this. In particular, we focus on the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor as the major effector of glutamate-induced mechanisms of neurodegeneration, including impairment of calcium homeostasis, changes in gene expression and signalling, and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as the role of endoplasmic reticular stress. Due to recent developments in the search for modulators of NMDA receptor signalling, novel neuroprotective strategies may be on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Boccuni
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Richard Fairless
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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21
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Therapeutic and preventive eff ect of physical exercises in primary open-angle glaucoma. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2021. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2021-6.6-1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The review assesses physical exercises as an additional non-pharmacological mean of combating the progression of primary open-angle glaucoma. The ophthalmic hypotensive effect is determined by the type of exercise, its duration and intensity. Moderate aerobic activity is preferred. Among dynamic exercises, jogging has the greatest hypotensive effect. Upper body isometric resistance training provides a more lasting decrease in ophthalmotonus. The decrease in intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma is several times more pronounced in comparison with healthy people and occurs regardless of the nature of the local drug antihypertensive therapy. After the termination of classes IOP returns to the previous level on average within a month. An increase in ocular perfusion pressure associated with physical activity dictates the appropriateness of physical exercise for patients with pseudo-normal pressure glaucoma. The combination of hypotensive, vascular, neuroprotective effects of physical activity with a high level of physical fi tness does not exclude a decrease in the risk of development and progression of primary open-angle glaucoma. The development of indications for the use of physical activity by patients with advanced glaucoma, including those who have undergone hypotensive surgery, remains relevant. The type, intensity, dosage and mode of performing the recommended physical exercises require an individual choice.
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22
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Tawarayama H, Inoue-Yanagimachi M, Himori N, Nakazawa T. Glial cells modulate retinal cell survival in rotenone-induced neural degeneration. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11159. [PMID: 34045544 PMCID: PMC8159960 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90604-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Administration of the mitochondrial complex I inhibitor rotenone provides an excellent model to study the pathomechanism of oxidative stress-related neural degeneration diseases. In this study, we examined the glial roles in retinal cell survival and degeneration under the rotenone-induced oxidative stress condition. Mouse-derived Müller, microglial (BV-2), and dissociated retinal cells were used for in vitro experiments. Gene expression levels and cell viability were determined using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and the alamarBlue assay, respectively. Conditioned media were prepared by stimulating glial cells with rotenone. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and inner nuclear layer (INL) were visualized on rat retinal sections by immunohistochemistry and eosin/hematoxylin, respectively. Rotenone dose-dependently induced glial cell death. Treatment with rotenone or rotenone-stimulated glial cell-conditioned media altered gene expression of growth factors and inflammatory cytokines in glial cells. The viability of dissociated retinal cells significantly increased upon culturing in media conditioned with rotenone-stimulated or Müller cell-conditioned media-stimulated BV-2 cells. Furthermore, intravitreal neurotrophin-5 administration prevented the rotenone-induced reduction of RGC number and INL thickness in rats. Thus, glial cells exerted both positive and negative effects on retinal cell survival in rotenone-induced neural degeneration via altered expression of growth factors, especially upregulation of microglia-derived Ntf5, and proinflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Tawarayama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.,Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Maki Inoue-Yanagimachi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Noriko Himori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Toru Nakazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan. .,Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan. .,Collaborative Program of Ophthalmic Drug Discovery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan. .,Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan. .,Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.
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Fudalej E, Justyniarska M, Kasarełło K, Dziedziak J, Szaflik JP, Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska A. Neuroprotective Factors of the Retina and Their Role in Promoting Survival of Retinal Ganglion Cells: A Review. Ophthalmic Res 2021; 64:345-355. [PMID: 33454713 DOI: 10.1159/000514441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) play a crucial role in the visual pathway. As their axons form the optic nerve, apoptosis of these cells causes neurodegenerative vision loss. RGC death could be triggered by increased intraocular pressure, advanced glycation end products, or mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the role of some neuroprotective factors in RGC injury: ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, pigment epithelium-derived factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, and Norrin. Each, in their own unique way, prevents RGC damage caused by glaucoma, ocular hypertension, ischemic neuropathy, and even oxygen-induced retinopathy. These factors are produced mainly by neurons, leukocytes, glial cells, and epithelial cells. Neuroprotective factors act via various signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, MAPK, TrkA, and TrkB, which promotes RGC survival. Many attempts have been made to develop therapeutic strategies using these factors. There are ongoing clinical trials with CNTF and NGF, but they have not yet been accepted for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Fudalej
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Justyniarska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kaja Kasarełło
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland,
| | - Jacek Dziedziak
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Ophthalmology, SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek P Szaflik
- Department of Ophthalmology, SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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24
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Igarashi T, Nakamoto K, Kobayashi M, Suzuki H, Tobita Y, Igarashi T, Okuda T, Okada T, Takahashi H. Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Glaucoma Patients in Japan: An Observational Study. J NIPPON MED SCH 2021; 87:339-345. [PMID: 32238736 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.jnms.2020_87-605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to measure serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Japanese patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal tension glaucoma (NTG). METHODS This was a prospective observational study of serum BDNF levels in 78 patients who underwent cataract surgery or trabeculectomy (27 glaucoma patients and 51 non-glaucoma cataract patients as controls). Patient age was 68.8 ± 11.1 years (mean ± standard deviation; range 35-86 years). The numbers of patients with POAG and NTG were 16 and 11, respectively. POAG was diagnosed by intraocular pressure measurement, gonioscopy, optic nerve head change, and presence of a visual field defect. RESULTS Serum BDNF concentration was significantly lower in the glaucoma group (including both POAG and NTG) than in the control group (7.2 ± 3.6 ng/mL vs. 12.2 ± 9.3 ng/mL, p=0.004). Serum BDNF concentration was lower in early glaucoma than in moderate glaucoma. There was no correlation between serum BDNF concentration and age. When patients with NTG and POAG were compared, serum BDNF concentration was lower in the former. Serum BDNF concentration was not significantly correlated with glaucoma parameters, including optical coherence tomography and visual field defects. CONCLUSION This is the first study to investigate serum BDNF concentration in glaucoma patients in Japan. Future studies should evaluate the role of BDNF as a potential biomarker of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Takahisa Okuda
- Department of Legal Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine
| | - Takashi Okada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School
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25
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Rabiee B, Anwar KN, Shen X, Putra I, Liu M, Jung R, Afsharkhamseh N, Rosenblatt MI, Fishman GA, Liu X, Ghassemi M, Djalilian AR. Gene dosage manipulation alleviates manifestations of hereditary PAX6 haploinsufficiency in mice. Sci Transl Med 2020; 12:eaaz4894. [PMID: 33298563 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz4894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In autosomal dominant conditions with haploinsufficiency, a single functional allele cannot maintain sufficient dosage for normal function. We hypothesized that pharmacologic induction of the wild-type allele could lead to gene dosage compensation and mitigation of the disease manifestations. The paired box 6 (PAX6) gene is crucial in tissue development and maintenance particularly in eye, brain, and pancreas. Aniridia is a panocular condition with impaired eye development and limited vision due to PAX6 haploinsufficiency. To test our hypothesis, we performed a chemical screen and found mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors to induce PAX6 expression in normal and mutant corneal cells. Treatment of newborn Pax6-deficient mice (Pax6Sey-Neu/+ ) with topical or systemic MEK inhibitor PD0325901 led to increased corneal PAX6 expression, improved corneal morphology, reduced corneal opacity, and enhanced ocular function. These results suggest that induction of the wild-type allele by drug repurposing is a potential therapeutic strategy for haploinsufficiencies, which is not limited to specific mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Rabiee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Khandaker N Anwar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Xiang Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ilham Putra
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mingna Liu
- Departments of Biology and Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Rebecca Jung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Neda Afsharkhamseh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mark I Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Gerald A Fishman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Pangere Center for Inherited Retinal Diseases, The Chicago Lighthouse, Chicago, IL 60608, USA
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Departments of Biology and Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Mahmood Ghassemi
- 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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26
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Kumar V, Ali Shariati M, Mesentier-Louro L, Jinsook Oh A, Russano K, Goldberg JL, Liao YJ. Dual Specific Phosphatase 14 Deletion Rescues Retinal Ganglion Cells and Optic Nerve Axons after Experimental Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy. Curr Eye Res 2020; 46:710-718. [PMID: 33107352 PMCID: PMC8291381 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2020.1826976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Understanding molecular changes is essential for designing effective treatments for nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), the most common acute optic neuropathy in adults older than 50 years. We investigated changes in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway after experimental AION and focused on dual specificity phosphatase 14 (Dusp14), an atypical MAPK phosphatase that is downstream of Krüppel-like transcription factor (KLF) 9-mediated inhibition of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and axonal regeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS We induced severe AION in a photochemical thrombosis model in adult C57BL/6 wild-type and Dusp14 knockout mice. For comparison, some studies were performed using an optic nerve crush model. We assessed changes in MAPK pathway molecules using Western blot and immunohistochemistry, measured retinal thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT), and quantified RGCs and axons using histologic methods. RESULTS Three days after severe AION, there was no change in the retinal protein levels of MAPK ERK1/2, phosphorylated-ERK1/2 (pERK1/2), downstream effector Elk-1 and phosphatase Dusp14 on Western blot. Western blot analysis of purified RGCs after a more severe model using optic nerve crush also showed no change in Dusp14 protein expression. Because of the known importance of the Dusp14 and MAPK pathway in RGCs, we examined changes after AION in Dusp14 knockout mice. Three days after AION, Dusp14 knockout mice had significantly increased pERK1/2+, Brn3A+ RGCs on immunohistochemistry. Three weeks after AION, Dusp14 knockout mice had significantly greater preservation of retinal thickness, increased number of Brn3A+ RGCs on whole mount preparation, and increased number of optic nerve axons compared with wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS Genetic deletion of Dusp14, a MAPK phosphatase important in KFL9-mediated inhibition of RGC survival, led to increased activation of MAPK ERK1/2 and greater RGC and axonal survival after experimental AION. Inhibiting Dusp14 or activating the MAPK pathway should be examined further as a potential therapeutic approach to treatment of AION. Abbreviations: AION: anterior ischemic optic neuropathy; Dusp14: dual specific phosphatase 14; ERK1/2: extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2; Elk-1: ETS Like-1 protein; GCC: ganglion cell complex; GCL: ganglion cell layer; inner nuclear layer; KO: knockout; MAPK: mitogen-activated phosphokinase; OCT: optical coherence tomography; RGC: retinal ganglion cell; RNFL: retinal nerve fiber layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Kumar
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Angela Jinsook Oh
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Kristina Russano
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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27
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Shiozawa AL, Igarashi T, Kobayashi M, Nakamoto K, Kameya S, Fujishita S, Takahashi H, Okada T. Tyrosine triple mutated AAV2-BDNF gene therapy in an inner retinal injury model induced by intravitreal injection of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). Mol Vis 2020; 26:409-422. [PMID: 32565669 PMCID: PMC7300199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Glaucoma is a group of chronic optic neuropathies characterized by the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, and they ultimately cause blindness. Because neuroprotection using neurotrophic factors against RGC loss has been proven a beneficial strategy, extensive attempts have been made to perform gene transfer of neurotrophic proteins. This study used the inner retinal injury mouse model to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of tyrosine triple mutated and self-complementary adeno-associated virus (AAV) encoding brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF; tm-scAAV2-BDNF). Methods C57BL/6J mice were intravitreally injected with 1 μl of tm-scAAV2-BDNF and its control AAV at a titer of 6.6 E+13 genome copies/ml. Three weeks later, 1 μl of 2 mM N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) was administered in the same way as the viral injection. Six days after the NMDA injection, we assessed the dark-adapted electroretinography (ERG). Mice were sacrificed at one week after the NMDA injection, followed by RNA quantification, protein detection, and histopathological analysis. Results The RNA expression of BDNF in retinas treated with tm-scAAV2-BDNF was about 300-fold higher than that of its control AAV. Meanwhile, the expression of recombinant BDNF protein increased in retinas treated with tm-scAAV2-BDNF. In addition, histological analysis revealed that tm-scAAV2-BDNF prevented thinning of the inner retina. Furthermore, b-wave amplitudes of the tm-scAAV2-BDNF group were significantly higher than those of the control vector group. Histopathological and electrophysiological evaluations showed that tm-scAAV2-BDNF treatment offered significant protection against NMDA toxicity. Conclusions Results showed that tm-scAAV2-BDNF-treated retinas were resistant to NMDA injury, while retinas treated with the control AAV exhibited histopathological and functional changes after the administration of NMDA. These results suggest that tm-scAAV2-BDNF is potentially effective against inner retinal injury, including normal tension glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaka Lee Shiozawa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan,Department of Drug Discovery Research, Teika Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Toyama, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Igarashi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maika Kobayashi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Nakamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kameya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shigeto Fujishita
- Department of Drug Discovery Research, Teika Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Toyama, Japan
| | | | - Takashi Okada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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28
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Schneider CL, Prentiss EK, Busza A, Matmati K, Matmati N, Williams ZR, Sahin B, Mahon BZ. Survival of retinal ganglion cells after damage to the occipital lobe in humans is activity dependent. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20182733. [PMID: 30963844 PMCID: PMC6408898 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage to the optic radiations or primary visual cortex leads to blindness in all or part of the contralesional visual field. Such damage disconnects the retina from its downstream targets and, over time, leads to trans-synaptic retrograde degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. To date, visual ability is the only predictor of retinal ganglion cell degeneration that has been investigated after geniculostriate damage. Given prior findings that some patients have preserved visual cortex activity for stimuli presented in their blind field, we tested whether that activity explains variability in retinal ganglion cell degeneration over and above visual ability. We prospectively studied 15 patients (four females, mean age = 63.7 years) with homonymous visual field defects secondary to stroke, 10 of whom were tested within the first two months after stroke. Each patient completed automated Humphrey visual field testing, retinotopic mapping with functional magnetic resonance imaging, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of the macula. There was a positive relation between ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness in the blind field and early visual cortex activity for stimuli presented in the blind field. Furthermore, residual visual cortex activity for stimuli presented in the blind field soon after the stroke predicted the degree of retinal GCC thinning six months later. These findings indicate that retinal ganglion cell survival after ischaemic damage to the geniculostriate pathway is activity dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen L Schneider
- 1 Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Rochester , Rochester, NY 14627 , USA.,2 Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA.,3 Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University , Pittsburgh, PA 15206 , USA
| | - Emily K Prentiss
- 4 Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA
| | - Ania Busza
- 4 Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA
| | - Kelly Matmati
- 7 Department of Neurology, Rochester Regional Health , Rochester, NY 14621 , USA
| | - Nabil Matmati
- 7 Department of Neurology, Rochester Regional Health , Rochester, NY 14621 , USA
| | - Zoë R Williams
- 4 Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA.,5 Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA.,6 Department of Neurosurgery, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA
| | - Bogachan Sahin
- 4 Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA
| | - Bradford Z Mahon
- 3 Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University , Pittsburgh, PA 15206 , USA.,4 Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA.,6 Department of Neurosurgery, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA.,8 Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester , Rochester, NY 14642 , USA
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29
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Zhao D, Wong VHY, Nguyen CTO, Jobling AI, Fletcher EL, Vingrys AJ, Bui BV. Reversibility of Retinal Ganglion Cell Dysfunction From Chronic IOP Elevation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 60:3878-3886. [PMID: 31529082 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To test the hypothesis that the capacity for retinal ganglion cells to functionally recover from chronic IOP elevation is dependent on the duration of IOP elevation. Methods IOP elevation was induced in one eye in anesthetized (isoflurane) adult C57BL6/J mice using a circumlimbal suture. Sutures were left in place for 8 and 16 weeks (n = 30 and 28). In two other groups the suture was cut after 8 and 12 weeks (n = 30 and 28), and ganglion cell function (electroretinography) and retinal structure (optical coherence tomography) were assessed 4 weeks later. Ganglion cell density was quantified by counting RBPMS (RNA-binding protein with multiple splicing)-stained cells. Results With IOP elevation (∼10 mm Hg above baseline), ganglion cell function declined to 75% ± 8% at 8 weeks and 59% ± 4% at 16 weeks relative to contralateral control eyes. The retinal nerve fiber layer was thinner at 8 (84% ± 4%) and 16 weeks (83% ± 3%), without a significant difference in total retinal thickness. Ganglion cell function recovered with IOP normalization (suture removal) at week 8 (97% ± 7%), but not at week 12 (73% ± 6%). Ganglion cell loss was found in all groups (-8% to -13%). Conclusions In the mouse circumlimbal suture model, 12 weeks of IOP elevation resulted in irreversible ganglion cell dysfunction, whereas retinal dysfunction was fully reversible after 8 weeks of IOP elevation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Zhao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vickie H Y Wong
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christine T O Nguyen
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew I Jobling
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Erica L Fletcher
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Algis J Vingrys
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bang V Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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30
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Lucas-Ruiz F, Galindo-Romero C, Salinas-Navarro M, González-Riquelme MJ, Vidal-Sanz M, Agudo Barriuso M. Systemic and Intravitreal Antagonism of the TNFR1 Signaling Pathway Delays Axotomy-Induced Retinal Ganglion Cell Loss. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1096. [PMID: 31680831 PMCID: PMC6803525 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we have blocked the signaling pathway of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in a mouse model of traumatic neuropathy using a small cell permeable molecule (R7050) that inhibits TNFα/TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) complex internalization. Adult pigmented mice were subjected to intraorbital optic nerve crush (ONC). Animals received daily intraperitoneal injections of R7050, and/or a single intravitreal administration the day of the surgery. Some animals received a combinatorial treatment with R7050 (systemic or local) and a single intravitreal injection of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). As controls, untreated animals were used. Retinas were analyzed for RGC survival 5 and 14 days after the lesion i.e., during the quick and slow phase of axotomy-induced RGC death. qPCR analyses were done to verify that Tnfr1 and TNFα were up-regulated after ONC. At 5 days post-lesion, R7050 intravitreal or systemic treatment neuroprotected RGCs as much as BDNF alone. At 14 days, RGC rescue by systemic or intravitreal administration of R7050 was similar. At this time point, intravitreal treatment with BDNF was significantly better than intravitreal R7050. Combinatory treatment was not better than BDNF alone, although at both time points, the mean number of surviving RGCs was higher. In conclusion, antagonism of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis rescues axotomized RGCs as it does the activation of survival pathways by BDNF. However, manipulation of both pathways at the same time, does not improve RGC survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Lucas-Ruiz
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Caridad Galindo-Romero
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Salinas-Navarro
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Josefa González-Riquelme
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Agudo Barriuso
- Grupo de Oftalmología Experimental, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.,Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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31
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Bhandari A, Smith JC, Zhang Y, Jensen AA, Reid L, Goeser T, Fan S, Ghate D, Van Hook MJ. Early-Stage Ocular Hypertension Alters Retinal Ganglion Cell Synaptic Transmission in the Visual Thalamus. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:426. [PMID: 31607867 PMCID: PMC6761307 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Axonopathy is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases including glaucoma, where elevated intraocular pressure (ocular hypertension, OHT) stresses retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons as they exit the eye and form the optic nerve. OHT causes early changes in the optic nerve such as axon atrophy, transport inhibition, and gliosis. Importantly, many of these changes appear to occur prior to irreversible neuronal loss, making them promising points for early diagnosis of glaucoma. It is unknown whether OHT has similarly early effects on the function of RGC output to the brain. To test this possibility, we elevated eye pressure in mice by anterior chamber injection of polystyrene microbeads. Five weeks post-injection, bead-injected eyes showed a modest RGC loss in the peripheral retina, as evidenced by RBPMS antibody staining. Additionally, we observed reduced dendritic complexity and lower spontaneous spike rate of On-αRGCs, targeted for patch clamp recording and dye filling using a Opn4-Cre reporter mouse line. To determine the influence of OHT on retinal projections to the brain, we expressed Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) in melanopsin-expressing RGCs by crossing the Opn4-Cre mouse line with a ChR2-reporter mouse line and recorded post-synaptic responses in thalamocortical relay neurons in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) of the thalamus evoked by stimulation with 460 nm light. The use of a Opn4-Cre reporter system allowed for expression of ChR2 in a narrow subset of RGCs responsible for image-forming vision in mice. Five weeks following OHT induction, paired pulse and high-frequency stimulus train experiments revealed that presynaptic vesicle release probability at retinogeniculate synapses was elevated. Additionally, miniature synaptic current frequency was slightly reduced in brain slices from OHT mice and proximal dendrites of post-synaptic dLGN relay neurons, assessed using a Sholl analysis, showed a reduced complexity. Strikingly, these changes occurred prior to major loss of RGCs labeled with the Opn4-Cre mouse, as indicated by immunofluorescence staining of ChR2-expressing retinal neurons. Thus, OHT leads to pre- and post-synaptic functional and structural changes at retinogeniculate synapses. Along with RGC dendritic remodeling and optic nerve transport changes, these retinogeniculate synaptic changes are among the earliest signs of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Bhandari
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Jennie C Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States.,Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Aaron A Jensen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Lisa Reid
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Toni Goeser
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Shan Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Deepta Ghate
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Matthew J Van Hook
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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32
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Bao Y, Liu F, Liu X, Huang M, He L, Ramakrishna S, Luo H, Hu H, Li H, Xu Y. Methyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate protects retina in a mouse model of acute ocular hypertension through multiple pathways. Exp Eye Res 2019; 181:15-24. [PMID: 30633922 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Methyl 3,4 dihydroxybenzoate (MDHB) is a small molecule that shows neuroprotective effects in vitro and in a photoreceptor-degenerative mouse model. Here we investigated whether MDHB protects retina in a mouse model of acute ocular hypertension (AOH) and explores the underlying mechanisms. AOH was induced in mice by increasing intraocular pressure to approximately 90 mmHg for 60 min, then MDHB or vehicle was intraperitoneally injected daily up to 7 days. Immunostaining and multi-electrode array recordings were performed to examine the structure and function of retinas receiving the treatments. Western-blotting was applied to test the expression of several proteins related to oxidative stress and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-initiated signaling. Results showed that AOH injury reduced the number of Brn3a-stained retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and ChAT-amacrine cells; thinned the inner retinal layers and induced apoptosis. Physiologically, AOH decreased the response of OFF and ON-OFF RGCs. All of these changes were reversed by MDHB-treatment. Mechanistically, MDHB appeared to work on three parallel pathways: (1) MDHB decreased the production of reactive oxygen species, the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and cytosol heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1); (2) It upregulated the expression of BDNF and its receptor tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), and activated the downstream AKT pathways; (3) It inhibited reactive gliosis by reducing GFAP and Iba-1 expression. Thus our results suggest that MDHB protects retina against AOH injury by inhibiting oxidative stress, activating the BDNF/AKT signaling and inhibiting inflammatory pathways. Therefore, MDHB may serve as a promising candidate to treat retinal ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqin Bao
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Mi Huang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Liumin He
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117576, Singapore
| | - Huanmin Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiling Hu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
| | - Hongying Li
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ying Xu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, China.
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Yarube I, Saidu A, Hassan S, Mohammed A. Circulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor level in patients with primary open angle glaucoma. SAHEL MEDICAL JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/smj.smj_63_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Chakravarthy H, Devanathan V. Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Diabetic Retinal Neurodegeneration: Potential Research Avenues and Therapeutic Targets. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 66:445-461. [PMID: 30293228 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a devastating complication of diabetes with a prevalence rate of 35%, and no effective treatment options. Since the most visible clinical features of DR are microvascular irregularities, therapeutic interventions often attempt to reduce microvascular injury, but only after permanent retinal damage has ensued. However, recent data suggests that diabetes initially affects retinal neurons, leading to neurodegeneration as an early occurrence in DR, before onset of the more noticeable vascular abnormalities. In this review, we delineate the sequence of initiating events leading to retinal degeneration in DR, considering neuronal dysfunction as a primary event. Key molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers associated with retinal neuronal degeneration in diabetes are discussed. In addition to glial reactivity and inflammation in the diabetic retina, the contribution of neurotrophic factors, cell adhesion molecules, apoptosis markers, and G protein signaling to neurodegenerative pathways warrants further investigation. These studies could complement recent developments in innovative treatment strategies for diabetic retinopathy, such as targeting retinal neuroprotection, promoting neuronal regeneration, and attempts to re-program other retinal cell types into functional neurons. Indeed, several ongoing clinical trials are currently attempting treatment of retinal neurodegeneration by means of such novel therapeutic avenues. The aim of this article is to highlight the crucial role of neurodegeneration in early retinopathy progression, and to review the molecular basis of neuronal dysfunction as a first step toward developing early therapeutic interventions that can prevent permanent retinal damage in diabetes. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02471651, NCT01492400.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshini Chakravarthy
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Transit campus: C/o. Sree Rama Engineering College Campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati, 517507, India
| | - Vasudharani Devanathan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Transit campus: C/o. Sree Rama Engineering College Campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati, 517507, India.
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Zhu MM, Lai JSM, Choy BNK, Shum JWH, Lo ACY, Ng ALK, Chan JCH, So KF. Physical exercise and glaucoma: a review on the roles of physical exercise on intraocular pressure control, ocular blood flow regulation, neuroprotection and glaucoma-related mental health. Acta Ophthalmol 2018; 96:e676-e691. [PMID: 29338126 DOI: 10.1111/aos.13661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The benefits of physical exercise on health and well-being have been studied in a wide range of systemic and ocular diseases, including glaucoma, a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by accelerated apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and insufficient ocular perfusion have been postulated to be the two main theories in glaucoma development and progression. The effects of exercise in these two aspects have been demonstrated by numerous researches. A review in 2009 focusing on these two theories concluded that exercise results in transient IOP reduction but an inconsistent elevation in ocular perfusion. However, the majority of the studies had been conducted in healthy subjects. Over the past decade, technological advancement has brought forth new and more detailed evidence regarding the effects of exercise. Moreover, the neuroprotective effect of exercise by upregulation of neurotrophin and enhancement of mitochondrial function has been a focus of interest. Apart from visual impairment, the mental health issues in patients with glaucoma, which include anxiety and depression, should also be addressed. In this review, we mainly focus on publications from the recent years, so as to provide a comprehensive review on the impact of physical exercise on IOP, ocular perfusion, neuroprotection and mental health in patients with glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ming Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Jimmy Shiu Ming Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Bonnie Nga Kwan Choy
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Jennifer Wei Huen Shum
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Amy Cheuk Yin Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Alex Lap Ki Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Jonathan Cheuk Hung Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Kwok Fai So
- Department of Ophthalmology; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
- School of Biomedical Sciences; LKS Faculty of Medicine; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration; Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory; Jinan University; Guangzhou China
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Soetikno BT, Beckmann L, Zhang X, Fawzi AA, Zhang HF. Visible-light optical coherence tomography oximetry based on circumpapillary scan and graph-search segmentation. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2018; 9:3640-3652. [PMID: 30338145 PMCID: PMC6191632 DOI: 10.1364/boe.9.003640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Visible-light optical coherence tomography (vis-OCT) enables retinal oximetry by measuring the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin (sO2) from within individual retinal blood vessels. The sO2 calculation requires reliable estimation of the true spectrum of backscattered light from the posterior vessel wall. Unfortunately, subject motion and image noise make averaging from multiple A-lines at the same depth position challenging, and lead to inaccurate sO2 estimation. In this study, we developed an algorithm to reliably extract the backscattered light's spectrum. We used circumpapillary scanning to sample the vessels repeatedly at the same location. A combination of cross-correlation and graph-search based segmentation extracted the posterior wall locations. Using measurements from 100 B-scans as a gold standard, we demonstrated that our method achieved highly accurate measures of sO2 with minimal bias. In addition, we also investigated how the number of repeated measurements affects the accuracy of sO2 measurement. Our method sets the stage for large-scale studies of retinal oxygenation in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T. Soetikno
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa Beckmann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Amani A. Fawzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hao F. Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Abstract
Tadalafil (Cialis) is one of the most commonly used phosphodiesterase type5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This work aimed to analyze the histological and ultrastructural changes provoked by chronic tadalafil administration in the rat retina, correlate between such changes and PDE5 immunoexpression and to evaluate the possible reversibility of these changes. Thirty Sprague Dawley male rats were randomly distributed into 3 groups. Control group; given 1 ml distilled water daily for 6 weeks. Tadalafil group; given tadalafil in a daily dose of 2.6 mg/kg for 6 weeks. Withdrawal group; given tadalafil 2.6 mg/kg daily for 6 week followed by a withdrawal period of 4 weeks. Retinal specimens were prepared for histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study using anti-PDE5 and anti-Bcl-2 antibodies. Morphometric and statistical studies were performed. Tadalafil group displayed a significant reduction in retinal thickness, diminished cell population of outer and inner nuclear layers, dilated blood capillaries and a significant decline in the number of ganglion cells. Significant reductions of both PDE5 and Bcl-2 immunoexpression were observed. At the ultrastructural level, the photoreceptors showed spacing of outer segments and disorganized membranous discs. Retinal neurons showed ultrastructural degenerative changes in the form of shrunken irregular nuclei, dilated rER, and disrupted mitochondria. Withdrawal group revealed preservation of histological structure and partial restoration of retinal thickness, retinal cells ultrastructure, and PDE5 and Bcl-2 immunoexpressions. In conclusion, chronic use of tadalafil could induce reversible apoptotic and degenerative changes in retinal neurons due to its inhibitory effect on PDE5 expression which affects the metabolism and viability of retinal cells.
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Uzel MM, Elgin U, Boral B, Çiçek M, Şen E, Şener B, Yılmazbaş P. The effect of trabeculectomy on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in primary open-angle glaucoma. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2018; 256:1173-1178. [PMID: 29417213 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-018-3923-y] [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] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to investigate the effect of trabeculectomy on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Our secondary goal was to compare serum and aqueous humor (AH) BDNF levels in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and control subjects. METHODS This prospective, cross-sectional study consists of 20 eyes of with advanced-stage POAG who had trabeculectomy and 19 eyes of age- and sex-matched control healthy subjects who had cataract surgery. Serum and AH samples were obtained preoperatively in trabeculectomy group and control subjects. Serum samples were obtained at the third postoperative month in both groups. RESULTS The aqueous humor and serum levels of BDNF at the surgery day were found to be strongly positive correlated (r = 0.868; p < 0.001). Serum and AH BDNF levels of POAG cases were significantly lower than control subjects at the surgery day (respectively p = 0.038, p = 0.011). In POAG cases, serum BDNF levels significantly increased at the third month after trabeculectomy while there was not a significant difference in control subjects with cataract surgery (p < 0.001; p = 0.717 respectively). CONCLUSION Trabeculectomy was found to have a positive effect on serum BDNF levels in POAG cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ufuk Elgin
- University of Health Sciences, Ulucanlar Eye Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Barış Boral
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Department, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Muharrem Çiçek
- Faculty of Medicine, Microbiology Department, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emine Şen
- University of Health Sciences, Ulucanlar Eye Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Burçin Şener
- Faculty of Medicine, Microbiology Department, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pelin Yılmazbaş
- University of Health Sciences, Ulucanlar Eye Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Mysona BA, Zhao J, Smith S, Bollinger KE. Relationship between Sigma-1 receptor and BDNF in the visual system. Exp Eye Res 2018; 167:25-30. [PMID: 29031856 PMCID: PMC5757370 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is an incurable optic neuropathy characterized by dysfunction and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an essential neurotrophin that supports RGC function and survival. Despite BDNF's importance, our knowledge of molecular mechanisms that modulate BDNF processing and secretion is incomplete. Sigma-1 receptor (S1R) is associated with increased BDNF in hippocampus and with BDNF secretion by brain-derived astrocytes and neuronal cell lines. Much less is known about the relationship between S1R and BDNF in the visual system. Here, we examine how S1R activation and deletion alter expression of mature BDNF (mBDNF) and proBDNF in retina and cultured optic nerve head (ONH) astrocytes. For S1R activation, the S1R agonist (+)-pentazocine (PTZ, 0.5 mg/kg) was administered by intraperitoneal injection to C57BL/6J mice, 3 times per week, for 5 weeks. Expression of proBDNF and mBDNF was also examined in S1R knockout and age-matched C57BL/6J mice. In vitro, cultured ONH astrocytes were treated with 3 μM PTZ for 24 h followed by collection of media and ONH astrocyte lysates. Results showed that treatment with (+)-PTZ increased mBDNF protein in both retina and hippocampus. In contrast, S1R deletion was associated with retinal mBDNF deficits. In ONH astrocytes S1R agonist (+)-PTZ significantly increased levels of secreted BDNF and proBDNF in cell lysates. These findings support a role for S1R in the modulation of BDNF levels within the retina and optic nerve head. Treatment with S1R agonists might provide benefit in diseases such as glaucoma by increasing BDNF levels from endogenous sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Mysona
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Jing Zhao
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Sylvia Smith
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States
| | - Kathryn E Bollinger
- James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States; Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, United States.
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Chitranshi N, Dheer Y, Abbasi M, You Y, Graham SL, Gupta V. Glaucoma Pathogenesis and Neurotrophins: Focus on the Molecular and Genetic Basis for Therapeutic Prospects. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1018-1035. [PMID: 29676228 PMCID: PMC6120108 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180419121247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration is a major feature of glaucoma pathology. Neuroprotective approaches that delay or halt the progression of RGC loss are needed to prevent vision loss which can occur even after conventional medical or surgical treatments to lower intraocular pressure. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to examine the progress in genetics and cellular mechanisms associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, RGC dysfunction and cell death pathways in glaucoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Here, we review the involvement of neurotrophins like brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its high affinity receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase (TrkB) in glaucoma. The role of ER stress markers in human and animal retinas in health and disease conditions is also discussed. Further, we analysed the literature highlighting genetic linkage in the context of primary open angle glaucoma and suggested mechanistic insights into potential therapeutic options relevant to glaucoma management. RESULTS The literature review of the neurobiology underlying neurotrophin pathways, ER stress and gene associations provide critical insights into association of RGCs death in glaucoma. Alteration in signalling pathway is associated with increased risk of misfolded protein aggregation in ER promoting RGC apoptosis. Several genes that are linked with neurotrophin signalling pathways have been reported to be associated with glaucoma pathology. CONCLUSION Understanding genetic heterogeneity and involvement of neurotrophin biology in glaucoma could help to understand the complex pathophysiology of glaucoma. Identification of novel molecular targets will be critical for drug development and provide neuroprotection to the RGCs and optic nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Chitranshi
- Address correspondence to this author at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 75, Talavera Road, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; Tel: +61-298502760; E-mail:
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Zhang J, Xu D, Ouyang H, Hu S, Li A, Luo H, Xu Y. Neuroprotective effects of methyl 3,4 dihydroxybenzoate in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Exp Eye Res 2017; 162:86-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Overexpression of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Protects Large Retinal Ganglion Cells After Optic Nerve Crush in Mice. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0331-16. [PMID: 28101532 PMCID: PMC5240030 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0331-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin essential for neuron survival and function, plays an important role in neuroprotection during neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined whether a modest increase of retinal BDNF promotes retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival after acute injury of the optic nerve in mice. We adopted an inducible Cre-recombinase transgenic system to up-regulate BDNF in the mouse retina and then examined RGC survival after optic nerve crush by in vivo imaging. We focused on one subtype of RGC with large soma expressing yellow fluorescent protein transgene that accounts for ∼11% of the total SMI-32-positive RGCs. The median survival time of this subgroup of SMI-32 cells was 1 week after nerve injury in control mice but 2 weeks when BDNF was up-regulated. Interestingly, we found that the survival time for RGCs taken as a whole was 2 weeks, suggesting that these large-soma RGCs are especially vulnerable to optic nerve crush injury. We also studied changes in axon number using confocal imaging, confirming first the progressive loss reported previously for wild-type mice and demonstrating that BDNF up-regulation extended axon survival. Together, our results demonstrate that the time course of RGC loss induced by optic nerve injury is type specific and that overexpression of BDNF prolongs the survival of one subgroup of SMI-32-positive RGCs.
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Mysona BA, Zhao J, Bollinger KE. Role of BDNF/TrkB pathway in the visual system: Therapeutic implications for glaucoma. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2016; 12:69-81. [PMID: 28751923 DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2017.1259566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroprotective therapeutics are needed to treat glaucoma, an optic neuropathy that results in death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). AREAS COVERED The BDNF/TrkB pathway is important for RGC survival. Temporal and spatial alterations in the BDNF/TrkB pathway occur in development and in response to acute optic nerve injury and to glaucoma. In animal models, BDNF supplementation is successful at slowing RGC death after acute optic nerve injury and in glaucoma, however, the BDNF/TrkB signaling is not the only pathway supporting long term RGC survival. EXPERT COMMENTARY Much remains to be discovered about the interaction between retrograde, anterograde, and retinal BDNF/TrkB signaling pathways in both neurons and glia. An ideal therapeutic agent for glaucoma likely has several modes of action that target multiple mechanisms of neurodegeneration including the BDNF/TrkB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Mysona
- Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Health Sciences Campus, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
| | - J Zhao
- Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
| | - K E Bollinger
- Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, Augusta University Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute. Address: Medical College of Georgia, Department of Ophthalmology at Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA,
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