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Fuster-Martínez I, Calatayud S. The current landscape of antifibrotic therapy across different organs: A systematic approach. Pharmacol Res 2024; 205:107245. [PMID: 38821150 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common pathological process that can affect virtually all the organs, but there are hardly any effective therapeutic options. This has led to an intense search for antifibrotic therapies over the last decades, with a great number of clinical assays currently underway. We have systematically reviewed all current and recently finished clinical trials involved in the development of new antifibrotic drugs, and the preclinical studies analyzing the relevance of each of these pharmacological strategies in fibrotic processes affecting tissues beyond those being clinically studied. We analyze and discuss this information with the aim of determining the most promising options and the feasibility of extending their therapeutic value as antifibrotic agents to other fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Fuster-Martínez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain; FISABIO (Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana), Valencia 46020, Spain.
| | - Sara Calatayud
- Departamento de Farmacología, Universitat de València, Valencia 46010, Spain; CIBERehd (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red - Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas), Spain.
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2
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Liang M, Wang Z, He K, Liao M, Zhang H, Guo M, Liang S, Guo H, Xie S, Wang X, Du M, You C, Yang J, Yan H. An antifouling supramolecular polymer ophthalmic ointment alleviates symblepharon in rat alkali burn eyes. Biomater Sci 2024. [PMID: 38916436 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00637b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Symblepharon is an adverse ocular disease resulting in ocular discomfort and impaired vision, severely dragging down a patient's quality of life. Due to the specificity of the ocular surface, the retention time of drugs on it is short, leading to limited therapeutic effects for ocular diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to design a novel drug delivery system, which can not only prolong the retention time of a drug but also play an anti-fibrosis role in symblepharon. Herein, an antifouling supramolecular polymer ophthalmic ointment consisting of poly(N-acryloyl alaninamide) (PNAAA), vitamin C (VitC) and levofloxacin (Levo) was developed (termed PNAVL ophthalmic ointment), which acted as a mucoadhesive and long-acting ocular delivery system. This antifouling PNAVL ophthalmic ointment improved the retention time of VitC and Levo, and simultaneously provided anti-inflammation and anti-fibrosis effects for mitigating symblepharon after ocular alkali burn injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Liang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Zhuoya Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Kai He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Mengyu Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Haokun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Miao Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Shuqi Liang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Haixia Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Songbo Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Mei Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
- Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 300070, Tianjin, China
| | - Caiyun You
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Jianhai Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Hua Yan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Ministry of Education International Joint Laboratory of Ocular Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Institute of Eye Health and Eye Diseases, China-UK "Belt and Road" Ophthalmology Joint Laboratory, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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3
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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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4
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Zhang Q, Yan X, Han H, Wang Y, Sun J. Pericyte in retinal vascular diseases: A multifunctional regulator and potential therapeutic target. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23679. [PMID: 38780117 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302624r] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Retinal vascular diseases (RVDs), in particular diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and retinopathy of prematurity, are leading contributors to blindness. The pathogenesis of RVD involves vessel dilatation, leakage, and occlusion; however, the specific underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Recent findings have indicated that pericytes (PCs), as critical members of the vascular mural cells, significantly contribute to the progression of RVDs, including detachment from microvessels, alteration of contractile and secretory properties, and excessive production of the extracellular matrix. Moreover, PCs are believed to have mesenchymal stem properties and, therefore, might contribute to regenerative therapy. Here, we review novel ideas concerning PC characteristics and functions in RVDs and discuss potential therapeutic strategies based on PCs, including the targeting of pathological signals and cell-based regenerative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xianchun Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hua Han
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yusheng Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaxing Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Li H, Li B, Zheng Y. Role of microglia/macrophage polarisation in intraocular diseases (Review). Int J Mol Med 2024; 53:45. [PMID: 38551157 PMCID: PMC10998719 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5369] [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: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophages form a crucial component of the innate immune system, and their activation is indispensable for various aspects of immune and inflammatory processes, tissue repair, and maintenance of the balance of the body's state. Macrophages are found in all ocular tissues, spanning from the front surface, including the cornea, to the posterior pole, represented by the choroid/sclera. The neural retina is also populated by specialised resident macrophages called microglia. The plasticity of microglia/macrophages allows them to adopt different activation states in response to changes in the tissue microenvironment. When exposed to various factors, microglia/macrophages polarise into distinct phenotypes, each exhibiting unique characteristics and roles. Furthermore, extensive research has indicated a close association between microglia/macrophage polarisation and the development and reversal of various intraocular diseases. The present article provides a review of the recent findings on the association between microglia/macrophage polarisation and ocular pathological processes (including autoimmune uveitis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia, retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, subretinal fibrosis, uveal melanoma, ischaemic optic neuropathy, retinopathy of prematurity and choroidal neovascularization). The paradoxical role of microglia/macrophage polarisation in retinopathy of prematurity is also discussed. Several studies have shown that microglia/macrophages are involved in the pathology of ocular diseases. However, it is required to further explore the relevant mechanisms and regulatory processes. The relationship between the functional diversity displayed by microglia/macrophage polarisation and intraocular diseases may provide a new direction for the treatment of intraocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Li
- School of Opthalmology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Biao Li
- School of Opthalmology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Yanlin Zheng
- School of Opthalmology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
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Liu D, Du J, Xie H, Tian H, Lu L, Zhang C, Xu GT, Zhang J. Wnt5a/β-catenin-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition: a key driver of subretinal fibrosis in neovascular age-related macular degeneration. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:75. [PMID: 38532410 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03068-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), accounts for up to 90% of AMD-associated vision loss, ultimately resulting in the formation of fibrotic scar in the macular region. The pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD involves the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) occurring in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Here, we aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms involved in the Wnt signaling during the EMT of RPE cells and in the pathological process of subretinal fibrosis secondary to nAMD. METHODS In vivo, the induction of subretinal fibrosis was performed in male C57BL/6J mice through laser photocoagulation. Either FH535 (a β-catenin inhibitor) or Box5 (a Wnt5a inhibitor) was intravitreally administered on the same day or 14 days following laser induction. The RPE-Bruch's membrane-choriocapillaris complex (RBCC) tissues were collected and subjected to Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence to examine fibrovascular and Wnt-related markers. In vitro, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1)-treated ARPE-19 cells were co-incubated with or without FH535, Foxy-5 (a Wnt5a-mimicking peptide), Box5, or Wnt5a shRNA, respectively. The changes in EMT- and Wnt-related signaling molecules, as well as cell functions were assessed using qRT-PCR, nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation assay, Western blot, immunofluorescence, scratch assay or transwell migration assay. The cell viability of ARPE-19 cells was determined using Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8. RESULTS The in vivo analysis demonstrated Wnt5a/ROR1, but not Wnt3a, was upregulated in the RBCCs of the laser-induced CNV mice compared to the normal control group. Intravitreal injection of FH535 effectively reduced Wnt5a protein expression. Both FH535 and Box5 effectively attenuated subretinal fibrosis and EMT, as well as the activation of β-catenin in laser-induced CNV mice, as evidenced by the significant reduction in areas positive for fibronectin, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, and active β-catenin labeling. In vitro, Wnt5a/ROR1, active β-catenin, and some other Wnt signaling molecules were upregulated in the TGFβ1-induced EMT cell model using ARPE-19 cells. Co-treatment with FH535, Box5, or Wnt5a shRNA markedly suppressed the activation of Wnt5a, nuclear translocation of active β-catenin, as well as the EMT in TGFβ1-treated ARPE-19 cells. Conversely, treatment with Foxy-5 independently resulted in the activation of abovementioned molecules and subsequent induction of EMT in ARPE-19 cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals a reciprocal activation between Wnt5a and β-catenin to mediate EMT as a pivotal driver of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD. This positive feedback loop provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies to treat subretinal fibrosis in nAMD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingxiao Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai Eye Research Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai Eye Research Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai Eye Research Institute, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai Eye Research Institute, Shanghai, China.
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Ulhaq ZS, Ogino Y, Tse WKF. Transcriptome alterations in sf3b4-depleted zebrafish: Insights into cataract formation in retinitis pigmentosa model. Exp Eye Res 2024; 240:109819. [PMID: 38311285 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109819] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) frequently develops as a complication in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Despite numerous scientific investigations, the intricate pathomechanisms underlying cataract formation in individuals affected by RP remain elusive. Therefore, our study aims to elucidate the potential pathogenesis of cataracts in an RP model using splicing factor subunit 3b (sf3b4) mutant zebrafish. By analyzing our previously published transcriptome dataset, we identified that, in addition to RP, cataract was listed as the second condition in our transcriptomic analysis. Furthermore, we confirmed the presence of nucleus retention in the lens fiber cells, along with abnormal cytoskeleton expression in both the lens fiber cells and lens epithelial cells in sf3b4-depleted fish. Upon closer examination, we identified 20 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that played a role in cataract formation, with 95 % of them related to the downregulation of structural lens proteins. Additionally, we also identified that among all the DEGs, 13 % were associated with fibrotic processes. It seems that the significant upregulation of inflammatory mediators, in conjunction with TGF-β signaling, plays a central role in the cellular biology of PSC and posterior capsular opacification (PCO) in sf3b4 mutant fish. In summary, our study provides valuable insights into cataract formation in the RP model of sf3b4 mutants, highlighting its complexity driven by changes in structural lens proteins and increased cytokines/growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulvikar Syambani Ulhaq
- Laboratory of Developmental Disorders and Toxicology, Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan; Research Center for Pre-clinical and Clinical Medicine, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, Cibinong, Indonesia.
| | - Yukiko Ogino
- Laboratory of Aquatic Molecular Developmental Biology, Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - William Ka Fai Tse
- Laboratory of Developmental Disorders and Toxicology, Center for Promotion of International Education and Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Bisen AC, Agrawal S, Rayiti R, Sanap SN, Biswas A, Mishra A, Gupta NM, Bhatta RS. Pirfenidone: A Promising Drug in Ocular Therapeutics. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301389. [PMID: 38299764 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301389] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Pirfenidone, initially indicated for lung fibrosis, has gone beyond its original purpose, and shown promise in eye care. This detailed review tracks its evolution from lung treatment to aiding eye healing as evidenced by published literature. Pirfenidone's multifaceted attributes extend to mitigating corneal fibrosis, inflammation, and trauma. Through rigorous investigations, its efficacy emerges in diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and postoperative glaucoma interventions. As an unheralded protagonist, pirfenidone reshapes ocular care paradigms, inviting renewed research opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Chhatrapati Bisen
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Sristi Agrawal
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Ramakrishna Rayiti
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Sachin Nashik Sanap
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Arpon Biswas
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
| | - Anjali Mishra
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
| | - Neeraj Mohan Gupta
- Department of Chemistry, Government P. G. College, Guna, Madhya Pradesh, 473001, India
| | - Rabi Sankar Bhatta
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226031, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
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Zhu L, Gou W, Ou L, Liu B, Liu M, Feng H. Role and new insights of microfibrillar-associated protein 4 in fibrotic diseases. APMIS 2024; 132:55-67. [PMID: 37957836 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13358] [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: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is one of the most worrisome complications of chronic inflammatory diseases, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and ultimately, death. The most notable pathological characteristic of fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components such as collagen and fibronectin adjacent to foci of inflammation or damage. The human microfibrillar-associated protein 4 (MFAP4), an important member of the superfamily of fibrinogen-related proteins, is considered to have an extremely important role in ECM transformation of fibrogenesis. This review summarizes the structure, characteristics, and physiological functions of MFAP4 and the importance of MFAP4 in various fibrotic diseases. Meanwhile, we elaborated the underlying actions and mechanisms of MFAP4 in the development of fibrosis, suggesting that a better understand of MFAP4 broadens novel perspective for early screening, diagnosis, prognostic risk assessment, and treatment of fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhu
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Changsha, China
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenqun Gou
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Changsha, China
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Changsha Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Lijia Ou
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Changsha, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Binjie Liu
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Changsha, China
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Manyi Liu
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Feng
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health, Changsha, China
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, China
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10
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Artsen AM, Liang R, Meyn L, Bradley MS, Moalli PA. Dysregulated wound healing in the pathogenesis of urogynecologic mesh complications. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21437. [PMID: 38052928 PMCID: PMC10698181 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48388-8] [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: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To test the hypothesis that dysregulated wound healing is associated with Urogynecologic mesh complications, we collected vaginal cell secretions using vaginal swabs after polypropylene mesh implantation in patients with (N = 39) and without (N = 40) complication. A customized multiplex immunoassay measured markers of inflammation (MCP-1, IGFBP-1, IL-2, IL-10, IL-17, PDGF-BB, bFGF, IL-1b, IL-6, IL-12p70, TNF-α), neuroinflammation (IL-1RA, TGF-β, IL-15, IL-18, IL-3, M-CSF), angiogenesis (VEGF), and matrix proteins (fibronectin, tenasin c, thrombospondin-2, lumican) between groups. Patients with complications were younger, heavier, implanted with mesh longer, and more likely to be ever smokers. A 5 kg/m2 BMI increase and ever-smoking were associated with a 2.4-fold and sixfold increased risk of complication, respectively. Patients with the highest tertile of bFGF, fibronectin, thrombospondin-2, TNF-β, or VEGF had an odds ratio (OR) of 11.8 for having a mesh complication while ≥ 3 elevated had an OR of 237 while controlling for age, BMI, and smoking. The highest tertile of bFGF, thrombospondin-2, and fibronectin together perfectly indicated a complication (P < 0.0001). A receiver-operator curve for high bFGF, thrombospondin-2, and fibronectin showed excellent discrimination between complications and controls (AUC 0.87). These data provide evidence of dysregulated wound healing in mesh complications. Modifiable factors provide potential targets for patient counseling and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Artsen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue 312A, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Rui Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue 312A, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Leslie Meyn
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue 312A, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Megan S Bradley
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue 312A, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Pamela A Moalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, 204 Craft Avenue 312A, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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11
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Santiago CP, Gimmen MY, Lu Y, McNally MM, Duncan LH, Creamer TJ, Orzolek LD, Blackshaw S, Singh MS. Comparative Analysis of Single-cell and Single-nucleus RNA-sequencing in a Rabbit Model of Retinal Detachment-related Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2023; 3:100335. [PMID: 37496518 PMCID: PMC10365955 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is the most common cause of failure of retinal reattachment surgery, and the molecular changes leading to this aberrant wound healing process are currently unknown. Our ultimate goal is to study PVR pathogenesis by employing single-cell transcriptomics to dissect cellular heterogeneity. Design Here we aimed to compare single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and single-nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNA-seq) of retinal PVR samples in the rabbit model. Participants Unilateral induction of PVR lesions in rabbit eyes with contralateral eyes serving as controls. Methods Proliferative vitreoretinopathy was induced unilaterally in Dutch Belted rabbits. At different timepoints after PVR induction, retinas were dissociated into either cells or nuclei suspension and processed for scRNA-seq or snRNA-seq. Main Outcome Measures Single cell and nuclei transcriptomic profiles of retinas after PVR induction. Results Single-cell RNA sequencing and snRNA-seq were conducted on retinas at 4 hours and 14 days after disease induction. Although the capture rate of unique molecular identifiers and genes were greater in scRNA-seq samples, overall gene expression profiles of individual cell types were highly correlated between scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq. A major disparity between the 2 sequencing modalities was the cell type capture rate, however, with glial cell types overrepresented in scRNA-seq, and inner retinal neurons were enriched by snRNA-seq. Furthermore, fibrotic Müller glia were overrepresented in snRNA-seq samples, whereas reactive Müller glia were overrepresented in scRNA-seq samples. Trajectory analyses were similar between the 2 methods, allowing for the combined analysis of the scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq data sets. Conclusions These findings highlight limitations of both scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq analysis and imply that use of both techniques together can more accurately identify transcriptional networks critical for aberrant fibrogenesis in PVR than using either in isolation. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton P. Santiago
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Megan Y. Gimmen
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yuchen Lu
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Minda M. McNally
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Leighton H. Duncan
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tyler J. Creamer
- Institute for Basic Biomedical Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Linda D. Orzolek
- Institute for Basic Biomedical Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mandeep S. Singh
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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12
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Wu PS, Liu HY, Wong TH, Lin JT, Hu FR, Lin MH. Comparative Proteomics Reveals Prolonged Corneal Preservation Impaired Ocular Surface Immunity Accompanied by Fibrosis in Human Stroma. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:3730-3741. [PMID: 37976471 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00383] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cornea transplantation is one of the most commonly performed allotransplantations worldwide. Prolonged storage of donor corneas leads to decreased endothelial cell viability, severe stromal edema, and opacification, significantly compromising the success rate of corneal transplantation. Corneal stroma, which constitutes the majority of the cornea, plays a crucial role in maintaining its shape and transparency. In this study, we conducted proteomic analysis of corneal stroma preserved in Optisol-GS medium at 4 °C for 7 or 14 days to investigate molecular changes during storage. Among 1923 identified proteins, 1634 were quantifiable and 387 were significantly regulated with longer preservation. Compared to stroma preserved for 7 days, proteins involved in ocular surface immunomodulation were largely downregulated while proteins associated with extracellular matrix reorganization and fibrosis were upregulated in those preserved for 14 days. The increase in extracellular matrix structural proteins together with upregulation of growth factor signaling implies the occurrence of stromal fibrosis, which may compromise tissue clarity and cause vision impairments. This study is the first to provide insights into how storage duration affects corneal stroma from a proteomic perspective. Our findings may contribute to future research efforts aimed at developing long-term preservation techniques and improving the quality of preserved corneas, thus maximizing their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Shan Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hsuan Wong
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ti Lin
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Fung-Rong Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
| | - Miao-Hsia Lin
- Department of Microbiology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100233, Taiwan
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13
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Corano Scheri K, Lavine JA, Tedeschi T, Thomson BR, Fawzi AA. Single-cell transcriptomics analysis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy fibrovascular membranes reveals AEBP1 as fibrogenesis modulator. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e172062. [PMID: 37917183 PMCID: PMC10896003 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172062] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of preretinal fibrovascular membranes, a devastating complication of advanced diabetic retinopathy (DR), remains challenging. We characterized the molecular profile of cell populations in these fibrovascular membranes to identify potentially new therapeutic targets. Preretinal fibrovascular membranes were surgically removed from patients and submitted for single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq). Differential gene expression was implemented to define the transcriptomics profile of these cells and revealed the presence of endothelial, inflammatory, and stromal cells. Endothelial cell reclustering identified subclusters characterized by noncanonical transcriptomics profile and active angiogenesis. Deeper investigation of the inflammatory cells showed a subcluster of macrophages expressing proangiogenic cytokines, presumably contributing to angiogenesis. The stromal cell cluster included a pericyte-myofibroblast transdifferentiating subcluster, indicating the involvement of pericytes in fibrogenesis. Differentially expressed gene analysis showed that Adipocyte Enhancer-binding Protein 1, AEBP1, was significantly upregulated in myofibroblast clusters, suggesting that this molecule may have a role in transformation. Cell culture experiments with human retinal pericytes (HRP) in high-glucose condition confirmed the molecular transformation of pericytes toward myofibroblastic lineage. AEBP1 siRNA transfection in HRP reduced the expression of profibrotic markers in high glucose. In conclusion, AEBP1 signaling modulates pericyte-myofibroblast transformation, suggesting that targeting AEBP1 could prevent scar tissue formation in advanced DR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Benjamin R Thomson
- Department of Ophthalmology and
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Center for Kidney Research and Therapeutics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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14
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Usui Y, Iwanishi H, Sumioka T, Ichikawa K, Miyajima M, Usui-Kusumoto K, Reinach PS, Okada Y, Saika S. Engineered Knockout of TRPA1 Inhibits Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization Along With Associated TGFβ1 Expression and Neutrophil Infiltration. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100256. [PMID: 37797886 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100256] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We examined the effects of gene ablation and chemical inhibition of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) on the growth of experimental argon laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice. CNV was induced in the eyes of 6- to 8-week-old TRPA1-null (knockout [KO]) and wild-type (WT) mice by argon laser irradiation. Gene expression analysis was performed in laser-injured tissues at days 1 and 3. CNV growth was evaluated at day 14. Reciprocal bone marrow transplantation was performed between each genotype to identify the components responsible for either recipient tissue or bone marrow-derived inflammatory cells. Our results show that laser irradiation successfully induced CNV growth at the site of laser injury. The size of induced CNV was significantly smaller in KO mice than in WT mice at day 14, as determined by angiography with fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran. Invasion of neutrophils, but not macrophages, was suppressed in association with suppression of the expression of transforming growth factor β1 and interleukin 6 in laser-irradiated KO tissue. Bone marrow transplantation indicated that the genotype of the recipient mouse, but not of inflammatory cells, is attributable to the KO phenotype. Systemic administration of a TRPA1 antagonist also reduced the CNV in a WT mouse. In conclusion, TRPA1 signaling in local cells is involved in growth of laser-induced CNV. The phenotype was not attributable to vascular endothelial cells and inflammatory cells. Blocking TRPA1 signal may therefore be a potential treatment strategy for CNV-related ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Usui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Hiroki Iwanishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan.
| | - Takayoshi Sumioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kana Ichikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Masayasu Miyajima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Keiko Usui-Kusumoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Peter Sol Reinach
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University School, Wenzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuka Okada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University Kihoku Hospital, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Shizuya Saika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
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15
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Rey-Funes M, Fernández JC, Peláez R, Soliño M, Contartese DS, Ciranna NS, Nakamura R, Sarotto A, Dorfman VB, Zapico JM, Ramos A, de Pascual-Teresa B, López-Costa JJ, Larrayoz IM, Martínez A, Loidl CF. A hypothermia mimetic molecule (zr17-2) reduces ganglion cell death, gliosis, and electroretinogram distortion in male rats subjected to perinatal asphyxia. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1252184. [PMID: 37767403 PMCID: PMC10520548 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1252184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Perinatal asphyxia (PA) represents a major problem in perinatology and may cause visual losses, including blindness. We, and others, have shown that hypothermia prevents retinal symptoms associated to PA. In the present work, we evaluate whether a hypothermia mimetic small molecule, zr17-2, has similar effects in the context of PA. Methods: Four experimental groups were studied in male rats: Naturally born rats as controls (CTL), naturally born rats injected s.c. with 50 µL of 330 nmols/L zr17-2 (ZR), animals that were exposed to PA for 20 min at 37°C (PA), and rats that were exposed to PA and injected with zr17-2 (PA-ZR). Forty-five days after treatment, animals were subjected to electroretinography. In addition, morphological techniques (TUNEL, H&E, multiple immunofluorescence) were applied to the retinas. Results: A reduction in the amplitude of the a- and b-wave and oscillatory potentials (OP) of the electroretinogram (ERG) was detected in PA animals. Treatment with zr17-2 resulted in a significant amelioration of these parameters (p < 0.01). In PA animals, a large number of apoptotic cells was found in the GCL. This number was significantly reduced by treatment with the small molecule (p < 0.0001). In a similar way, the thickness of the inner retina and the intensity of GFAP immunoreactivity (gliosis) increased in PA retinas (p < 0.0001). These parameters were corrected by the administration of zr17-2 (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, injection of the small molecule in the absence of PA did not modify the ERG nor the morphological parameters studied, suggesting a lack of toxicity. Discussion: In conclusion, our results indicate that a single s.c. injection of zr17-2 in asphyctic neonates may provide a novel and efficacious method to prevent the visual sequelae of PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Rey-Funes
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Carlos Fernández
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rafael Peláez
- Biomarkers and Molecular Signaling Group, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño, Spain
| | - Manuel Soliño
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela S. Contartese
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás S. Ciranna
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ronan Nakamura
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aníbal Sarotto
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica B. Dorfman
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - José M. Zapico
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Ramos
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz de Pascual-Teresa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan José López-Costa
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ignacio M. Larrayoz
- Department of Nursing, Biomarkers, Artificial Intelligence, and Signaling (BIAS), University of La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - Alfredo Martínez
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño, Spain
| | - César Fabián Loidl
- Laboratorio de Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET—Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia “Prof. E. De Robertis” (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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16
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Choi AJ, Hefley BS, Nicholas SE, Cunningham RL, Karamichos D. Novel Correlation between TGF-β1/-β3 and Hormone Receptors in the Human Corneal Stroma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13635. [PMID: 37686439 PMCID: PMC10487450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713635] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the interplay between transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β1/T1 and TGF-β3/T3), and sex hormone receptors using our 3D in vitro cornea stroma model. Primary human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) from healthy donors were plated in transwells at 106 cells/well and cultured for four weeks. HCFs were supplemented with stable vitamin C (VitC) and stimulated with T1 or T3. 3D construct proteins were analyzed for the androgen receptor (AR), progesterone receptor (PR), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ), luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR), KiSS1-derived peptide receptor (KiSS1R/GPR54), and follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta (FSH-B). In female constructs, T1 significantly upregulated AR, PR, ERα, FSHR, GnRHR, and KiSS1R. In male constructs, T1 significantly downregulated FSHR and FSH-B and significantly upregulated ERα, ERβ, and GnRHR. T3 caused significant upregulation in expressions PR, ERα, ERβ, LHR, FSHR, and GNRHR in female constructs, and significant downregulation of AR, ERα, and FSHR in male constructs. Semi-quantitative Western blot findings present the interplay between sex hormone receptors and TGF-β isoforms in the corneal stroma, which is influenced by sex as a biological variable (SABV). Additional studies are warranted to fully delineate their interactions and signaling mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J. Choi
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Brenna S. Hefley
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Sarah E. Nicholas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Rebecca L. Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA; (A.J.C.); (B.S.H.); (S.E.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
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17
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Bisen AC, Sanap SN, Biswas A, Agrawal S, Mishra A, Kumar M, Choudhury AD, R HG, Bhatta RS. A QbD-led simple and sensitive RP-UHPLC method for simultaneous determination of moxifloxacin, voriconazole, and pirfenidone: An application to pharmaceutical analysis. Biomed Chromatogr 2023; 37:e5681. [PMID: 37153940 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
A novel, quick and precise RP-UHPLC analytical method for the simultaneous determination of moxifloxacin (MFX), voriconazole (VCZ) and pirfenidone (PIR) was developed and validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines using a QbD-driven response surface Box-Behnken design. The developed method was validated considering the selectivity, sensitivity, linearity, accuracy-precision, robustness, stability, limit of detection and limit of quantification, respectively. Resolution between MFX, VCZ and PIR was achieved using a gradient elution protocol against a Waters Symmetry Shield C18 column (150 × 4.6 mm2 , 5 μm) using an Agilent 1290, Infinity II series LC system. The method was applied to quantitatively estimate proprietary and in-house prepared pharmaceutical topical ophthalmic formulations containing MFX, VCZ and PIR at wavelength (λmax ) of 296, 260 and 316 nm. The method is sensitive enough to detect up to 0.1 ppm of analytes in the formulation. The method was further exploited to study and identify the possible degradation products of the analytes. The proposed chromatographic method is simple, economical, reliable and reproducible. In conclusion, the developed method could be applicable for routine quality control analysis of single or combined MFX, VCZ and PIR-containing units or bulk dosage forms in pharmaceutical industries and research organizations working on drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Chhatrapati Bisen
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sachin Nashik Sanap
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arpon Biswas
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sristi Agrawal
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anjali Mishra
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhijit Deb Choudhury
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Heamanth Ganesan R
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rabi Sankar Bhatta
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
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18
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Liu D, Zhang C, Zhang J, Xu GT, Zhang J. Molecular pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in neovascular AMD focusing on epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of retinal pigment epithelium. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106250. [PMID: 37536385 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106250] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among elderly people in developed countries. Neovascular AMD (nAMD) accounts for more than 90% of AMD-related vision loss. At present, intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) is widely used as the first-line therapy to decrease the choroidal and retinal neovascularizations, and thus to improve or maintain the visual acuity of the patients with nAMD. However, about 1/3 patients still progress to irreversible visual impairment due to subretinal fibrosis even with adequate anti-VEGF treatment. Extensive literatures support the critical role of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD, but the underlying mechanisms still remain largely unknown. This review summarized the molecular pathogenesis of subretinal fibrosis in nAMD, especially focusing on the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced EMT pathways. It was also discussed how these pathways crosstalk and respond to signals from the microenvironment to mediate EMT and contribute to the progression of nAMD-related subretinal fibrosis. Targeting EMT signaling pathways might provide a promising and effective therapeutic strategy to treat subretinal fibrosis secondary to nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingting Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Tongji Hospital and Laboratory of Clinical and Visual Sciences of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.
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Usui Y, Iwanishi H, Sumioka T, Ichikawa K, Miyajima M, Usui-Kusumoto K, Reinach PS, Okada Y, Saika S. WITHDRAWN: Engineered knockout of TRPA1 inhibits laser-induced choroidal neovascularization along with associated TGFb1 expression and neutrophil infiltration. J Transl Med 2023:100232. [PMID: 37567390 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2023.100232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Usui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Hiroki Iwanishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Sumioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kana Ichikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Masayasu Miyajima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Keiko Usui-Kusumoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Peter Sol Reinach
- Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University School, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuka Okada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University Kihoku Hospital, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Shizuya Saika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wakayama Medical University School of Medicine, Wakayama, Japan
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20
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Dähmcke M, Busch M, Pfeil JM, Brauckmann T, Schulz D, Omran W, Morawiec-Kisiel E, Wähler F, Paul S, Tayar A, Bründer MC, Grundel B, Stahl A. Circulating MicroRNAs as Biomarker for Vessel-Associated Retinal Diseases. Ophthalmologica 2023; 246:227-237. [PMID: 37721532 DOI: 10.1159/000533481] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vessel-associated retinal diseases are a major cause of blindness and severe visual impairment. The identification of appropriate biomarkers is of great importance to better anticipate disease progression and establish more targeted treatment options. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, single-stranded, noncoding ribonucleic acids that are involved in the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression through hybridization with messenger RNA. The expression of certain miRNAs can be different in patients with pathological processes and can be used for the detection and differentiation of various diseases. In this study, we investigate to what extent previously in vitro identified miRNAs are present as cell-free circulating miRNAs in the serum and vitreous of human patients with and without vessel-associated retinal diseases. METHODS Relative quantification by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze miRNA expression in patients with vessel-associated retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and retinal vein occlusion compared with control patients. RESULTS In serum samples, miR-29a-3p and miR-192-5p showed increased expression in patients with neovascular AMD relative to control patients. Similarly, miR-335-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-194-5p showed increased expression in serum from patients with proliferative DR. In vitreous samples, miR-100-5p was decreased in patients with proliferative DR. Differentially expressed miRNAs showed good diagnostic accuracy in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and area under the ROC curve analysis. CONCLUSION The miRNAs investigated in this study may have the potential to serve as biomarkers for vessel-associated retinal diseases. Combining multiple miRNAs may enhance the predictive power of the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlin Dähmcke
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Busch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Johanna M Pfeil
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Tara Brauckmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Daniel Schulz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Wael Omran
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ewa Morawiec-Kisiel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Fabienne Wähler
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sebastian Paul
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Allam Tayar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Bastian Grundel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Daley R, Maddipatla V, Ghosh S, Chowdhury O, Hose S, Zigler JS, Sinha D, Liu H. Aberrant Akt2 signaling in the RPE may contribute to retinal fibrosis process in diabetic retinopathy. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:243. [PMID: 37443129 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01545-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes that causes blindness in adults. Retinal fibrosis is closely associated with developing proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Clinical studies have shown that fibrotic membranes exhibit uncontrolled growth in PDR and contribute to retinal detachment from RPE cells, ultimately leading to vision loss. While anti-VEGF agents and invasive laser treatments are the primary treatments for PDR, retinal fibrosis has received minimal attention as a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Therefore, to investigate the potential role of Akt2 in the diabetes-induced retinal fibrosis process, we generated RPE-specific Akt2 conditional knockout (cKO) mice and induced diabetes in these mice and Akt2fl/fl control mice by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. After an 8-month duration of diabetes (10 months of age), the mice were euthanized and expression of tight junction proteins, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrosis markers were examined in the RPE. Diabetes induction in the floxed control mice decreased levels of the RPE tight junction protein ZO-1 and adherens junction proteins occludin and E-cadherin; these decreases were rescued in Akt2 cKO diabetic mice. Loss of Akt2 also inhibited diabetes-induced elevation of RNA and protein levels of the EMT markers Snail/Slug and Twist1 in the RPE as compared to Akt2fl/fl diabetic mice. We also found that in Akt2 cKO mice diabetes-induced increase of fibrosis markers, including collagen IV, Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), fibronectin, and alpha-SMA was attenuated. Furthermore, we observed that high glucose-induced alterations in EMT and fibrosis markers in wild-type (WT) RPE explants were rescued in the presence of PI3K and ERK inhibitors, indicating diabetes-induced retinal fibrosis may be mediated via the PI3K/Akt2/ERK signaling, which could provide a novel target for DR therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Daley
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Vishnu Maddipatla
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sayan Ghosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olivia Chowdhury
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stacey Hose
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Samuel Zigler
- Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Debasish Sinha
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Wilmer Eye Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Haitao Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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22
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Park JYC, King A, Björk V, English BW, Fedintsev A, Ewald CY. Strategic outline of interventions targeting extracellular matrix for promoting healthy longevity. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C90-C128. [PMID: 37154490 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00060.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM), composed of interlinked proteins outside of cells, is an important component of the human body that helps maintain tissue architecture and cellular homeostasis. As people age, the ECM undergoes changes that can lead to age-related morbidity and mortality. Despite its importance, ECM aging remains understudied in the field of geroscience. In this review, we discuss the core concepts of ECM integrity, outline the age-related challenges and subsequent pathologies and diseases, summarize diagnostic methods detecting a faulty ECM, and provide strategies targeting ECM homeostasis. To conceptualize this, we built a technology research tree to hierarchically visualize possible research sequences for studying ECM aging. This strategic framework will hopefully facilitate the development of future research on interventions to restore ECM integrity, which could potentially lead to the development of new drugs or therapeutic interventions promoting health during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Cecilia Park
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Aaron King
- Foresight Institute, San Francisco, California, United States
| | | | - Bradley W English
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Collin Y Ewald
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
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23
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Sloan LJ, Funk KM, Tamiya S, Song ZH. Effect of N-oleoyl dopamine on myofibroblast trans-differentiation of retinal pigment epithelial cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 667:127-131. [PMID: 37216828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.040] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells contribute to several clinical conditions resulting in retinal fibrotic scars. Myofibroblast trans-differentiation of RPE cells is a critical step in the process of retinal fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the effects of N-oleoyl dopamine (OLDA), a newer endocannabinoid with a structure distinct from classic endocannabinoids, on TGF-β2-induced myofibroblast trans-differentiation of porcine RPE cells. Using an in vitro collagen matrix contraction assay, OLDA was found to inhibit TGF-β2 induced contraction of collagen matrices by porcine RPE cells. This effect was concentration-dependent, with significant inhibition of contraction observed at 3 μM and 10 μM. OLDA did not affect the proliferation of porcine RPE cells. Immunocytochemistry showed that at 3 μM, OLDA decreased incorporation of α-SMA in the stress fibers of TGF-β2-treated RPE cells. In addition, western blot analysis showed that 3 μM OLDA significantly downregulated TGF-β2-induced α-SMA protein expression. Taken together these results demonstrate that OLDA inhibits TGF-β induced myofibroblast trans-differentiation of RPE cells. It has been established that classic endocannabinoid such as anandamide, by activating the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, promote fibrosis in multiple organ systems. In contrast, this study demonstrates that OLDA, an endocannabinoid with a chemical structure distinct from classic endocannabinoids, inhibits myofibroblast trans-differentiation, an important step in fibrosis. Unlike classic endocannabinoids, OLDA has weak affinity for the CB1 receptor. Instead, OLDA acts on non-classic cannabinoid receptors such as GPR119, GPR6, and TRPV1. Therefore, our study indicates that the newer endocannabinoid OLDA and its non-classic cannabinoid receptors could potentially be novel therapeutic targets for treating ocular diseases involving retinal fibrosis and fibrotic pathologies in other organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy J Sloan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, United States
| | - Kyle M Funk
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, United States
| | - Shigeo Tamiya
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, United States.
| | - Zhao-Hui Song
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, United States.
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Zhang C, Zhang Y, Hu X, Zhao Z, Chen Z, Wang X, Zhang Z, Jin H, Zhang J. Luteolin inhibits subretinal fibrosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in laser-induced mouse model via suppression of Smad2/3 and YAP signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 116:154865. [PMID: 37201365 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subretinal fibrosis (SF) accounts for vision loss in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) even treated with adequate intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs. Currently, there is no treatment available to prevent or treat SF caused by nAMD. PURPOSE This study aims to investigate the potential effects of luteolin on SF and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as well as the underlying molecular pathways both in vivo and in vitro. METHODS Seven-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were employed to establish laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and SF. One day after the laser induction, luteolin was administered intravitreally. SF and CNV were assessed with the immunolabeling of collagen type I (collagen I) and isolectin B4 (IB4), respectively. RPE65 and α-SMA colocalization in the lesions was used to evaluate the extent of EMT in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells by using immunofluorescence. In vitro, luteolin was administered to TGFβ1-treated primary human RPE (phRPE) cells. RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence were employed to evaluate the change of EMT-related molecules, epithelial markers, and relevant signaling pathways. The functional changes associated with EMT were investigated using the scratch assay, Transwell migration assay, and collagen gel contraction assay. CCK-8 was used to determine the cell viability of phRPE cells. RESULTS On day 7 and 14 after laser induction in mice, intravitreal injection of luteolin dramatically decreased the immunolabeled sizes of both collagen I and IB4, as well as the amount of colocalized double immunostaining of α-SMA and RPE65 in laser-induced SF lesions. In vitro, TGFβ1-treated phRPE cells demonstrated increased cell migration and contraction capacity, accompanied with considerable overexpression of fibronectin, α-SMA, N-cadherin and vimentin, as well as downregulation of E-cadherin and ZO-1. The above changes were largely inhibited by luteolin co-incubation. Mechanistically, luteolin could evidently decrease the phosphorylation of Smad2/3, whereas increase the phosphorylation of YAP in TGFβ1-treated phRPE cells. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that luteolin exhibits the anti-fibrotic effect in a laser-induced mouse model by inhibiting EMT of RPE cells via deactivating Smad2/3 and YAP signaling, which provides a potential natural compound for the prevention and treatment of SF and fibrosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, PR China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhao
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ziang Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Haiying Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.
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25
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Lange C, Tetzner R, Strunz T, Rittenhouse KD. Aflibercept Suppression of angiopoietin-2 in a Rabbit Retinal Vascular Hyperpermeability Model. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:17. [PMID: 37191621 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.5.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapies, which attenuate the capacity of VEGF to bind to VEGF receptors, are standard-of-care options for various retinal disorders that are characterized by pathologic retinal angiogenesis and vascular permeability. Multiple receptors and ligands have also been reported as being involved in these pathways, including angiopoietin-1 (ANG1) and angiopoietin-2 (ANG2). Methods Electrochemiluminescence immunoassays were used to detect human VEGF (hVEGF), as well as rabbit ANG2 and basic fibroblast growth factor protein levels in vitreous samples derived from a study evaluating the efficacy of the anti-VEGF agents ranibizumab, aflibercept, and brolucizumab in an hVEGF165-induced rabbit retinal vascular hyperpermeability model. Results hVEGF was completely suppressed in rabbit vitreous after anti-VEGF treatment for 28 days. ANG2 protein in vitreous and ANGPT2 mRNA in retina tissue were similarly suppressed, although the anti-VEGF agents do not directly bind to ANG2. Aflibercept demonstrated the greatest inhibitory effect in ANG2 levels in vitreous, which correlated with strong, durable suppression of intraocular hVEGF levels. Conclusions This study explored the effects of anti-VEGF therapies beyond direct binding of VEGF by evaluating protein levels and the expression of target genes involved in angiogenesis and associated molecular mechanisms in the rabbit retina and choroid. Translational Relevance In vivo data suggest that anti-VEGF agents currently used for the treatment of retinal diseases could provide beneficial effects beyond direct binding of VEGF, including suppression of ANG2 protein and ANGPT2 mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lange
- Research & Development, Precision Medicine Markers, Bayer AG, Berlin, Germany
- https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7570-0261
| | - Reimo Tetzner
- Research & Development, Biosample Operation Management and Assay Technologies, Bayer AG, Berlin, Germany
- https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9549-7731
| | - Tobias Strunz
- Research & Development, Biomedical Data Science II, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3744-9595
| | - Kay D Rittenhouse
- Medical Affairs, Bayer Consumer Care AG, Basel, Switzerland
- https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7503-5759
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26
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Paul S, Kim C, Soliman MK, Sobol W, Echegaray JJ, Kurup S. Can the Future be Bright with Advances in Diabetic Eye Care? Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2023; 52:89-99. [PMID: 36754499 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2022.06.004] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy is steadily increasing as the population of patients with diabetes grows. In the past decade, the development of anti-VEGF agents has dramatically changed the treatment landscape for diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema (DME). Newer agents in development aim to reduce the treatment burden of diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Paul
- University Hospitals Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Christian Kim
- University Hospitals Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Mohamed Kamel Soliman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University Hospitals, Al Walideyah Al Qebleyah, Asyut 2, Assiut Governorate 2074020, Egypt; Case Western Reserve University, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery, Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Warren Sobol
- University Hospitals Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Case Western Reserve University, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery, Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jose J Echegaray
- University Hospitals Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Case Western Reserve University, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery, Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Shree Kurup
- University Hospitals Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Case Western Reserve University, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery, Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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27
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Yi C, Liu J, Deng W, Luo C, Qi J, Chen M, Xu H. Old age promotes retinal fibrosis in choroidal neovascularization through circulating fibrocytes and profibrotic macrophages. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:45. [PMID: 36823538 PMCID: PMC9947907 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02731-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal fibrosis affects 40-70% of neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients. This study investigated the effect of ageing on subretinal fibrosis secondary to choroidal neovascularization and the mechanism of action. METHODS Subretinal fibrosis was induced in young (2.5-month) and aged (15-16-month) C57BL/6J mice using the two-stage laser protocol. Five and 30 days later, eyes were collected and stained for CD45 and collagen-1 and observed by confocal microscopy. Fibrocytes (CD45+collagen-1+) were detected in the bone marrow (BM), blood and fibrotic lesions by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, respectively. BM-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were cultured from young and aged mice with or without TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL) treatment. The expression of mesenchymal marker αSMA (Acta2), fibronectin (Fn1) and collagen-1 (Col1a1) was examined by qPCR and immunocytochemistry, whereas cytokine/chemokine production was measured using the Luminex multiplex cytokine assay. BM were transplanted from 22-month (Ly5.2) aged mice into 2.5-month (Ly5.1) young mice and vice versa. Six weeks later, subretinal fibrosis was induced in recipient mice and eyes were collected for evaluation of fibrotic lesion size. RESULTS Under normal conditions, the number of circulating fibrocytes (CD45+collagen-1+) and the expression levels of Tgfb1, Col1a1, Acta2 and Fn1 in BMDMs were significantly higher in aged mice compared to young mice. Induction of subretinal fibrosis significantly increased the number of circulating fibrocytes, enhanced the expression of Col1a1, Acta2 and Fn1 and the production of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator surface receptor (suPAR) but decreased the production of CXCL10 in BMDMs. BMDMs from aged subretinal fibrosis mice produced significantly higher levels of VEGF, angiopoietin-2 and osteopontin than cells from young subretinal fibrosis mice. The subretinal fibrotic lesion in 15-16-month aged mice was 62% larger than that in 2.5-month young mice. The lesion in aged mice contained a significantly higher number of fibrocytes compared to that in young mice. The number of circulating fibrocytes positively correlated with the size of subretinal fibrotic lesion. Transplantation of BM from aged mice significantly increased subretinal fibrosis in young mice. CONCLUSIONS A retina-BM-blood-retina pathway of fibrocyte/macrophage recruitment exists during retinal injury. Ageing promotes subretinal fibrosis through higher numbers of circulating fibrocytes and profibrotic potential of BM-derived macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caijiao Yi
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000 China
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, 410000 China
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011 China
- Hunan Province Optometry Engineering and Technology Research Center, Changsha, 410009 China
- Hunan Province International Cooperation Base for Optometry Science and Technology, Changsha, 410009 China
| | - Jian Liu
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, 410000 China
- Hunan Province Optometry Engineering and Technology Research Center, Changsha, 410009 China
- Hunan Province International Cooperation Base for Optometry Science and Technology, Changsha, 410009 China
| | - Wen Deng
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000 China
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, 410000 China
| | - Chang Luo
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000 China
| | - Jinyan Qi
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000 China
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, 410000 China
| | - Mei Chen
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL UK
| | - Heping Xu
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000 China
- Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, 410000 China
- Hunan Province Optometry Engineering and Technology Research Center, Changsha, 410009 China
- Hunan Province International Cooperation Base for Optometry Science and Technology, Changsha, 410009 China
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL UK
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Dos Santos FM, Ciordia S, Mesquita J, de Sousa JPC, Paradela A, Tomaz CT, Passarinha LAP. Vitreous humor proteome: unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying proliferative and neovascular vitreoretinal diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 80:22. [PMID: 36585968 PMCID: PMC11072707 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04670-y] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) are among the leading causes of blindness. Due to the multifactorial nature of these vitreoretinal diseases, omics approaches are essential for a deeper understanding of the pathophysiologic processes underlying the evolution to a proliferative or neovascular etiology, in which patients suffer from an abrupt loss of vision. For many years, it was thought that the function of the vitreous was merely structural, supporting and protecting the surrounding ocular tissues. Proteomics studies proved that vitreous is more complex and biologically active than initially thought, and its changes reflect the physiological and pathological state of the eye. The vitreous is the scenario of a complex interplay between inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Vitreous proteome not only reflects the pathological events that occur in the retina, but the changes in the vitreous itself play a central role in the onset and progression of vitreoretinal diseases. Therefore, this review offers an overview of the studies on the vitreous proteome that could help to elucidate some of the pathological mechanisms underlying proliferative and/or neovascular vitreoretinal diseases and to find new potential pharmaceutical targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Milhano Dos Santos
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Sergio Ciordia
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joana Mesquita
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Castro de Sousa
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, 2410-197, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Alberto Paradela
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cândida Teixeira Tomaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
- C4-UBI, Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6200-501, Covilhã, Portugal
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís António Paulino Passarinha
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade NOVA, 2819-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- Pharmaco-Toxicology Laboratory, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-000, Covilhã, Portugal.
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Gelat B, Rathaur P, Malaviya P, Patel B, Trivedi K, Johar K, Gelat R. The intervention of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in homeostasis of human retinal pigment epithelial cells: a review. J Histotechnol 2022; 45:148-160. [DOI: 10.1080/01478885.2022.2137665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brijesh Gelat
- Department of Zoology, BMTC and Human Genetics, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Pooja Rathaur
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Pooja Malaviya
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Binita Patel
- Department of Life Science, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Krupali Trivedi
- Department of Zoology, BMTC and Human Genetics, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Kaid Johar
- Department of Zoology, BMTC and Human Genetics, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Rahul Gelat
- Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, India
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Lee S, Kim S, Jeon JS. Microfluidic outer blood-retinal barrier model for inducing wet age-related macular degeneration by hypoxic stress. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4359-4368. [PMID: 36254466 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00672c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a severe ophthalmic disease that develops in the outer blood-retinal barrier (oBRB), involving two types of cells, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choriocapillaris endothelium (CCE). Unfortunately, the pathogenesis of AMD is unclear, and the risk of the only effective therapy (Anti-VEGF injection) has been consistently argued. Also, since oBRB is hard to observe in vivo, an in vitro model for the pathological study is necessary. Here, we propose an advanced oBRB model, enhanced in two major ways: fully vascularized CCE and the in vivo analogous distance between RPE and CCE. Our model consists of an RPE (ARPE-19) monolayer with adjacent CCE (HUVEC) embedded fibrin gel in the microfluidic chip and required four days to construct an oBRB. Notably, the intercellular distance was tuned to the in vivo scale (<100 μm) without any extraneous scaffold in between. Thus, the two cell layers can interact freely through the extracellular matrix (ECM) in vivo. This is significant as wet AMD is mainly developed through broken intercellular interaction. Thanks to this in vivo similarity, the model incubated under hypoxic conditions, similar to an oxygen-induced retinopathy animal model, showed upregulated vascularization comparable to the AMD condition. We envisage that our model can be used to assist the investigation of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokhun Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Seunggyu Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Jessie S Jeon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
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Heloterä H, Kaarniranta K. A Linkage between Angiogenesis and Inflammation in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Cells 2022; 11:cells11213453. [PMID: 36359849 PMCID: PMC9654543 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment in the aging population with a limited understanding of its pathogenesis and the number of patients are all the time increasing. AMD is classified into two main forms: dry and neovascular AMD (nAMD). Dry AMD is the most prevalent form (80–90%) of AMD cases. Neovascular AMD (10–20% of AMD cases) is treated with monthly or more sparsely given intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, but unfortunately, not all patients respond to the current treatments. A clinical hallmark of nAMD is choroidal neovascularization. The progression of AMD is initially characterized by atrophic alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium, as well as the formation of lysosomal lipofuscin and extracellular drusen deposits. Cellular damage caused by chronic oxidative stress, protein aggregation and inflammatory processes may lead to advanced geographic atrophy and/or choroidal neovascularization and fibrosis. Currently, it is not fully known why different AMD phenotypes develop. In this review, we connect angiogenesis and inflammatory regulators in the development of nAMD and discuss therapy challenges and hopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Heloterä
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Correspondence:
| | - Kai Kaarniranta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
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Alshaikh RA, Ryan KB, Waeber C. Sphingosine 1-phosphate, a potential target in neovascular retinal disease. Br J Ophthalmol 2022; 106:1187-1195. [PMID: 33962970 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-319115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Neovascular ocular diseases (such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion) are characterised by common pathological processes that contribute to disease progression. These include angiogenesis, oedema, inflammation, cell death and fibrosis. Currently available therapies target the effects of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the main mediator of pathological angiogenesis. Unfortunately, VEGF blockers are expensive biological therapeutics that necessitate frequent intravitreal administration and are associated with multiple adverse effects. Thus, alternative treatment options associated with fewer side effects are required for disease management. This review introduces sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) as a potential pharmacological target for the treatment of neovascular ocular pathologies. S1P is a sphingolipid mediator that controls cellular growth, differentiation, survival and death. S1P actions are mediated by five G protein-coupled receptors (S1P1-5 receptors) which are abundantly expressed in all retinal and subretinal structures. The action of S1P on S1P1 receptors can reduce angiogenesis, increase endothelium integrity, reduce photoreceptor apoptosis and protect the retina against neurodegeneration. Conversely, S1P2 receptor signalling can increase neovascularisation, disrupt endothelial junctions, stimulate VEGF release, and induce retinal cell apoptosis and degeneration of neural retina. The aim of this review is to thoroughly discuss the role of S1P and its different receptor subtypes in angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis and fibrosis in order to determine which of these S1P-mediated processes may be targeted therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha A Alshaikh
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Katie B Ryan
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- SSPC The SFI Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Christian Waeber
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Morelli-Batters A, Lamont HC, Elghobashy M, Masood I, Hill LJ. The role of Vitamin D3 in ocular fibrosis and its therapeutic potential for the glaucomatous trabecular meshwork. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022; 2:897118. [PMID: 38983544 PMCID: PMC11182265 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2022.897118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The most prevalent subtype, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG), is characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), damage to the optic nerve head and irreversible visual loss. IOP increases aqueous humor (AqH) outflow is reduced through the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canal (SC). Increased outflow resistance is partly due to TM/SC dysregulation, including loss of normal trabecular meshwork cell (TMC) function, following increased levels of oxidative stress within TMC, dysregulated extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling alongside alterations in TMC phenotype and apoptosis. Current widely available POAG treatments do not target the aberrant expression of ECM in the TM directly. As a result, most drug treatments can fail as the underlying pathological process continues unabated. Rho-kinase inhibitors have demonstrated the benefit of restoring TM/SC function, however there is a clear need to develop further treatment strategies that can target the underlying cellular processes which become dysregulated within the TMC during POAG pathogenesis. Vitamin D is suggested to be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of fibrosis and inflammation in soft tissues. It has important functions in many major organ systems, including regulation of calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone. Evidence suggests that Vitamin D3 modulates ECM turnover through the conventional TGFβ-SMAD signaling, which is associated with the development of POAG. The link between Vitamin D3, inflammation and fibrosis within ocular tissues will be discussed and the potential roles of Vitamin D3 in the management of POAG patients will be explored within this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Morelli-Batters
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah C Lamont
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- School of Chemical Engineering, Healthcare Technologies Institute, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mirna Elghobashy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Imran Masood
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa J Hill
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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More than Antibiotics: Latest Therapeutics in the Treatment and Prevention of Ocular Surface Infections. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11144195. [PMID: 35887958 PMCID: PMC9323953 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11144195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular surface infections have been common issues for ophthalmologists for decades. Traditional strategies for infection include antibiotics, antiviral agents, and steroids. However, multiple drug-resistant bacteria have become more common with the prevalence of antibiotic use. Furthermore, an ideal treatment for an infectious disease should not only emphasize eliminating the microorganism but also maintaining clear and satisfying visual acuity. Immunogenetic inflammation, tissue fibrosis, and corneal scarring pose serious threats to vision, and they are not attenuated or prevented by traditional antimicrobial therapeutics. Herein, we collected information about current management techniques including stem-cell therapy, probiotics, and gene therapy as well as preventive strategies related to Toll-like receptors. Finally, we will introduce the latest research findings in ocular drug-delivery systems, which may enhance the bioavailability and efficiency of ocular therapeutics. The clinical application of improved delivery systems and novel therapeutics may support people suffering from ocular surface infections.
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Llorián-Salvador M, Byrne EM, Szczepan M, Little K, Chen M, Xu H. Complement activation contributes to subretinal fibrosis through the induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigment epithelial cells. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:182. [PMID: 35831910 PMCID: PMC9447479 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02546-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We previously reported higher plasma levels of complement fragments C3a and C5a in neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) patients with macular fibrosis. This study aimed to understand whether complement activation contributes to the development of macular fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms involved. Methods Complement activation was blocked using a C5 neutralizing antibody (BB5.1) in C57BL/6J mice after induction of subretinal fibrosis using the two-stage laser protocol. Fibrotic lesions were examined 10 days after the 2nd laser through fundus examination and immunohistochemistry. The expression of C5aR in fibrotic lesions and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cultures were examined by confocal microscopy. Primary murine RPE cells were treated with C3a or C5a (10–100 ng/mL) or TGF-β2 (10 ng/mL). Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was assessed through various readouts. The expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, fibronectin, α-SMA, Slug, ERK/AKT and pSMAD2/3 were determined by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Collagen contraction and wound-healing assays were used as functional readouts of EMT. The production of IL-6, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and VEGF by RPE cells were determined by ELISA. PMX53 was used to block C5aR in RPE cultures and in vivo in mice with subretinal fibrosis. Results Extensive C5b-9 deposition was detected at the site of subretinal fibrosis. BB5.1 treatment completely abrogated complement activation and significantly reduced subretinal fibrosis. C5aR was detected in RPE and infiltrating MHC-II+ cells in subretinal fibrosis. In vitro, RPE cells constitutively express C5/C5a and C5aR, and their expression was increased by TGF-β2 treatment. C5a but not C3a increased fibronectin, α-SMA, vimentin and Slug expression, and decreased E-cadherin expression in RPE cells. C5a treatment also increased the contractility and migration of RPE cells and enhanced the production of VEGF and TGF-β1/2. C5a treatment induced pSmad2/3 and pERK1/2 expression in RPE cells and this was blocked by PMX53. PMX53 treatment significantly reduced sodium fluorescein leakage in the subretinal fibrosis model, while collagen-I+ lesions only mildly reduced. Conclusions Complement activation is critically involved in the development of subretinal fibrosis, partially through C5a–C5aR-mediated EMT in RPE cells. Targeting complement activation rather than C5a may be a novel approach for the management of macular fibrosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-022-02546-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Llorián-Salvador
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.,Vall d´Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eimear M Byrne
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.,Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manon Szczepan
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Karis Little
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Mei Chen
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Heping Xu
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
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36
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Shao Z, Chwa M, Atilano SR, Park J, Karageozian H, Karageozian V, Kenney MC. The Transcriptome Profile of Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Müller Cell Lines Protected by Risuteganib Against Hydrogen Peroxide Stress. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2022; 38:513-526. [PMID: 35731128 PMCID: PMC9508878 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Oxidative stress contributes to the pathogenesis of vision-impairing diseases. In the retina, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller cells support neuronal homeostasis, but also contribute to pathological development under stressed conditions. Recent studies found that the investigational drug risuteganib (RSG) has a good safety profile, provided protection in experimental models, and improved visual acuity in patients. The present in vitro study evaluated the effects of RSG in RPE and Müller cell lines stressed with the oxidant hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Methods: Human RPE (ARPE-19) and Müller (MIO-M1) cell lines were treated with various combinations of RSG and H2O2. Trypan blue assay was used to investigate the effect of compounds on cell viability. Gene expression was measured using RNA sequencing to identify regulated genes and the biological processes and pathways involved. Results: Trypan blue assay found RSG pre-treatment significantly protected against H2O2-induced cell death in ARPE-19 and MIO-M1 cells. Transcriptome analysis found H2O2 regulated genes in several disease-relevant biological processes, including cell adhesion, migration, death, and proliferation; ECM organization; angiogenesis; metabolism; and immune system processes. RSG pre-treatment modulated these gene expression profiles in the opposite direction of H2O2. Pathway analysis found genes in integrin, AP-1, and syndecan signaling pathways were regulated. Expression of selected RSG-regulated genes was validated using qRT-PCR. Conclusions: RSG protected cultured human RPE and Müller cell lines against H2O2-induced cell death and mitigated the associated transcriptome changes in biological processes and pathways relevant to the pathogenesis of retinal diseases. These results demonstrate RSG reduced oxidative stress-induced toxicity in two retinal cell lines with potential relevance to the treatment of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Shao
- Allegro Ophthalmics, LLC, San Juan Capistrano, California, USA
| | - Marilyn Chwa
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Shari R Atilano
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - John Park
- Allegro Ophthalmics, LLC, San Juan Capistrano, California, USA
| | | | | | - M Cristina Kenney
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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37
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Szczepan M, Llorián-Salvador M, Chen M, Xu H. Immune Cells in Subretinal Wound Healing and Fibrosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:916719. [PMID: 35755781 PMCID: PMC9226489 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.916719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The subretinal space is devoid of any immune cells under normal conditions and is an immune privileged site. When photoreceptors and/or retinal pigment epithelial cells suffer from an injury, a wound healing process will be initiated. Retinal microglia and the complement system, as the first line of retinal defense, are activated to participate in the wound healing process. If the injury is severe or persists for a prolonged period, they may fail to heal the damage and circulating immune cells will be summoned leading to chronic inflammation and abnormal wound healing, i.e., subretinal or intraretinal fibrosis, a sight-threatening condition frequently observed in rhematogenous retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration and recurrent uveoretinitis. Here, we discussed the principles of subretinal wound healing with a strong focus on the conditions whereby the damage is beyond the healing capacity of the retinal defense system and highlighted the roles of circulating immune cells in subretinal wound healing and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Szczepan
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - María Llorián-Salvador
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mei Chen
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Heping Xu
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom,Aier Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, Changsha, China,*Correspondence: Heping Xu,
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38
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Indumathi A, Senthilkumar GP, Jayashree K, Ramesh Babu K. Assessment of circulating fibrotic proteins (periostin and tenascin -C) In Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with and without retinopathy. Endocrine 2022; 76:570-577. [PMID: 35274283 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03027-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision impairment. Surging diabetic population and poor visual care raises the need for better diagnostic tools. Hence, it is worthwhile to look for biomarkers associated with the disease pathogenesis. Periostin and tenascin-C are matricellular proteins mediating fibrillogenesis in retinopathy. Their serum levels and association with the presence and severity of retinopathy in diabetics is of importance to be explored. METHODS The study involved two groups of type 2 diabetes patients, 38 controls without retinopathy and 38 cases with retinopathy. We obtained serum sample and performed biochemical autoanalysis for routine parameters. Special parameters periostin, tenascin-C, and C-peptide were estimated by ELISA. RESULTS Periostin and tenascin-C were significantly elevated in the retinopathy group. Periostin progressively increased among subgroups. C-peptide decreased significantly in retinopathy group and had a negative correlation with duration of DM, duration of retinopathy, HbA1c and tenascin-C. We observed a positive correlation for periostin and tenascin-C with duration of diabetes. The AUC for C-peptide was the highest (0.750) amongst our parameters. HOMA 2 (%B) index was significantly lower in retinopathy group. CONCLUSIONS Serum Levels of PO and TnC increased in retinopathy. As the disease advances, periostin level increases, indicating continuing fibrosis and fibrovascular membrane formation. Periostin and tenascin-C increase with duration of retinopathy whereas levels of C-peptide decrease. C-peptide has a better differentiating potential for DR from DM. Reduced insulin production as indicated by declined HOMA 2-%BETA in retinopathy favors hyperglycemia and chronic inflammatory state for the disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Indumathi
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | | | - Kuppuswamy Jayashree
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - K Ramesh Babu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
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Peña JS, Vazquez M. Harnessing the Neuroprotective Behaviors of Müller Glia for Retinal Repair. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2022; 27:169. [PMID: 35748245 PMCID: PMC9639582 DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2706169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Progressive and irreversible vision loss in mature and aging adults creates a health and economic burden, worldwide. Despite the advancements of many contemporary therapies to restore vision, few approaches have considered the innate benefits of gliosis, the endogenous processes of retinal repair that precede vision loss. Retinal gliosis is fundamentally driven by Müller glia (MG) and is characterized by three primary cellular mechanisms: hypertrophy, proliferation, and migration. In early stages of gliosis, these processes have neuroprotective potential to halt the progression of disease and encourage synaptic activity among neurons. Later stages, however, can lead to glial scarring, which is a hallmark of disease progression and blindness. As a result, the neuroprotective abilities of MG have remained incompletely explored and poorly integrated into current treatment regimens. Bioengineering studies of the intrinsic behaviors of MG hold promise to exploit glial reparative ability, while repressing neuro-disruptive MG responses. In particular, recent in vitro systems have become primary models to analyze individual gliotic processes and provide a stepping stone for in vivo strategies. This review highlights recent studies of MG gliosis seeking to harness MG neuroprotective ability for regeneration using contemporary biotechnologies. We emphasize the importance of studying gliosis as a reparative mechanism, rather than disregarding it as an unfortunate clinical prognosis in diseased retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan S. Peña
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
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Extracellular Vesicles in Corneal Fibrosis/Scarring. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115921. [PMID: 35682600 PMCID: PMC9180085 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Communication between cells and the microenvironment is a complex, yet crucial, element in the development and progression of varied physiological and pathological processes. Accumulating evidence in different disease models highlights roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs), either in modulating cell signaling paracrine mechanism(s) or harnessing their therapeutic moiety. Of interest, the human cornea functions as a refractive and transparent barrier that protects the intraocular elements from the external environment. Corneal trauma at the ocular surface may lead to diminished corneal clarity and detrimental effects on visual acuity. The aberrant activation of corneal stromal cells, which leads to myofibroblast differentiation and a disorganized extracellular matrix is a central biological process that may result in corneal fibrosis/scarring. In recent years, understanding the pathological and therapeutic EV mechanism(s) of action in the context of corneal biology has been a topic of increasing interest. In this review, we describe the clinical relevance of corneal fibrosis/scarring and how corneal stromal cells contribute to wound repair and their generation of the stromal haze. Furthermore, we will delve into EV characterization, their subtypes, and the pathological and therapeutic roles they play in corneal scarring/fibrosis.
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Hermenean A, Oatis D, Herman H, Ciceu A, D’Amico G, Trotta MC. Galectin 1-A Key Player between Tissue Repair and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105548. [PMID: 35628357 PMCID: PMC9142121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are ten family members of carbohydrate-binding proteins with a high affinity for β galactose-containing oligosaccharides. Galectin-1 (Gal-1) is the first protein discovered in the family, expressed in many sites under normal and pathological conditions. In the first part of the review article, we described recent advances in the Gal-1 modulatory role on wound healing, by focusing on the different phases triggered by Gal-1, such as inflammation, proliferation, tissue repair and re-epithelialization. On the contrary, Gal-1 persistent over-expression enhances angiogenesis and extracellular matrix (ECM) production via PI3K/Akt pathway activation and leads to keloid tissue. Therefore, the targeted Gal-1 modulation should be considered a method of choice to treat wound healing and avoid keloid formation. In the second part of the review article, we discuss studies clarifying the role of Gal-1 in the pathogenesis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, liver, renal, pancreatic and pulmonary fibrosis. This evidence suggests that Gal-1 may become a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of tissue fibrosis and a promising molecular target for the development of new and original therapeutic tools to treat fibrosis in different chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Hermenean
- Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania; (H.H.); (A.C.); (G.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniela Oatis
- Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania;
| | - Hildegard Herman
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania; (H.H.); (A.C.); (G.D.)
| | - Alina Ciceu
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania; (H.H.); (A.C.); (G.D.)
| | - Giovanbattista D’Amico
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 310414 Arad, Romania; (H.H.); (A.C.); (G.D.)
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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Nair GKG, Pollalis D, Wren JD, Georgescu C, Sjoelund V, Lee SY. Proteomic Insight into the Role of Exosomes in Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy Development. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102716. [PMID: 35628842 PMCID: PMC9143131 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To characterize vitreous humor (VH) exosomes and to explore their role in the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) using mass spectrometry-based proteome profiling. Methods: Exosomes were isolated from undiluted VH from patients with retinal detachment (RD) with various stages of PVR (n = 9), macular hole (MH; n = 5), or epiretinal membrane (ERM; n = 5) using differential ultracentrifugation. The exosomal size, morphology, and exosome markers were analyzed using a nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and an exosome detection antibody array. The tryptic fragment sequencing of exosome-contained proteins was performed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and a Thermo Lumos Fusion Tribrid Orbitrap mass spectrometer. The pathway analysis of the MS data was performed. Results: The number of exosome particles were significantly increased only in the RD with severe PVR group compared with the control groups and the RD without PVR or with mild PVR groups. Of 724 exosome proteins identified, 382 were differentially expressed (DE) and 176 were uniquely present in PVR. Both DE proteins and exosome proteins that were only present in PVR were enriched in proteins associated with previously known key pathways related to PVR development, including reactive retinal gliosis, pathologic cellular proliferation, inflammation, growth of connective tissues, and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). The SPP1, CLU, VCAN, COL2A1, and SEMA7A that are significantly upregulated in PVR were related to the tissue remodeling. Conclusions: Exosomes may play a key role in mediating tissue remodeling along with a complex set of pathways involved in PVR development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopa Kumar Gopinadhan Nair
- Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA;
| | - Dimitrios Pollalis
- USC Roski Eye Institute, USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics and Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1450 San Pablo, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA;
| | - Jonathan D. Wren
- Genes & Human Diseases Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (J.D.W.); (C.G.)
| | - Constantin Georgescu
- Genes & Human Diseases Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (J.D.W.); (C.G.)
| | - Virginie Sjoelund
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA;
| | - Sun Young Lee
- Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA;
- USC Roski Eye Institute, USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics and Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1450 San Pablo, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA;
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Correspondence:
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Gao AY, Link PA, Bakri SJ, Haak AJ. Dopamine Receptor Signaling Regulates Fibrotic Activation of Retinal Pigmented Epithelial Cells. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C116-C124. [PMID: 35544697 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00468.2021] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells play an important role in retinal fibrotic diseases such as proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). The purpose of this study was to elucidate the involvement of dopamine receptor signaling in regulating the fibrotic activation of RPE cells. Dopamine receptor expression, the effect of dopamine on fibrotic activity, and dopamine production were measured in the human RPE cell line ARPE-19. The fibrotic activation of RPE cells was evaluated in response to treatments with selective dopamine receptor agonists and antagonists by measuring gene expression, migration, proliferation, and fibronectin deposition. DRD2 and DRD5 are the dominant dopaminergic receptors expressed in ARPE-19 cells and TGFβ stimulates enhances autocrine release of dopamine which we show further exasperates fibrotic activation. Finally, treatment with D2 dopamine receptor antagonists or D5 dopamine receptor agonists inhibits profibrotic gene expression, migration, proliferation, and fibronectin deposition and thus may serve as effective mechanisms for treating retinal fibrosis including PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Y Gao
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Ophthalmology, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Patrick A Link
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Sophie J Bakri
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Ophthalmology, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Andrew J Haak
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Rochester, MN, United States
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44
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Weigelt CM, Zippel N, Fuchs H, Rimpelä AK, Schönberger T, Stierstorfer B, Bakker RA, Redemann NH. Characterization and Validation of In Vitro and In Vivo Models to Investigate TNF-α-Induced Inflammation in Retinal Diseases. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:18. [PMID: 35579886 PMCID: PMC9123507 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.5.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Inflammation is implicated in the etiology of diverse retinopathies including uveitis, age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a well-known proinflammatory cytokine that is described as a biomarker for inflammation in diverse retinopathies and therefore emerged as an interesting target to treat inflammation in the eye by neutralizing anti-TNF-α antibodies. Methods Recently, we have demonstrated that Adeno-associated virus (AAV)–mediated expression of human TNF-α in the murine eye induces retinal inflammation including vasculitis and fibrosis, thereby mimicking human disease-relevant pathologies. In a proof-of-mechanism study, we now tested whether AAV-TNF-α induced pathologies can be reversed by neutralizing TNF-α antibody treatment. Results Strikingly, a single intravitreal injection of the TNF-α antibody golimumab reduced AAV-TNF-α–induced retinal inflammation and retinal thickening. Furthermore, AAV-TNF-α–mediated impaired retinal function was partially rescued by golimumab as revealed by electroretinography recordings. Finally, to study TNF-α-induced vasculitis in human in vitro cell culture assays, we established a monocyte-to-endothelium adhesion co-culture system. Indeed, also in vitro TNF-α induced monocyte adhesion to human retinal endothelial cells, which was prevented by golimumab. Conclusions Overall, our study describes valuable in vitro and in vivo approaches to study the function of TNF-α in retinal inflammation and demonstrated a preclinical proof-of-mechanism treatment with golimumab. Translational Relevance The AAV-based model expressing human TNF-α allows us to investigate TNF-α–driven pathologies supporting research in mechanisms of retinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina M Weigelt
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Nina Zippel
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Holger Fuchs
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Anna-Kaisa Rimpelä
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Tanja Schönberger
- Drug Discovery Sciences, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Birgit Stierstorfer
- Nonclinical Drug Safety, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co.KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Remko A Bakker
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Norbert H Redemann
- Cardiometabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
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Zhao Z, Zhang Y, Zhang C, Zhang J, Luo X, Qiu Q, Luo D, Zhang J. TGF-β promotes pericyte-myofibroblast transition in subretinal fibrosis through the Smad2/3 and Akt/mTOR pathways. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:673-684. [PMID: 35624154 PMCID: PMC9166792 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00778-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Subretinal fibrosis remains a major obstacle to the management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Choroidal pericytes were found to be a significant source of subretinal fibrosis, but the underlying mechanisms of pericyte-myofibroblast transition (PMT) remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to explore the role and potential mechanisms by which PMT contributes to subretinal fibrosis. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was induced by laser photocoagulation in transgenic mice with the collagen1α1-green fluorescent protein (Col1α1-GFP) reporter, and recombinant adeno-associated virus 2 (rAAV2)-mediated TGF-β2 (rAAV2-TGF-β2) was administered intravitreally to further induce PMT. Primary mouse choroidal GFP-positive pericytes were treated with TGF-β2 in combination with siRNAs targeting Smad2/3, the Akt inhibitor MK2206 or the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin to examine cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation into myofibroblasts. The involvement of the Akt/mTOR pathway in PMT in subretinal fibrosis was further investigated in vivo. Intraocular TGF-β2 overexpression induced GFP-positive pericyte infiltration and PMT in subretinal fibrosis, which was mimicked in vitro. Knockdown of Smad2/3 or inhibition of Akt/mTOR decreased cell proliferation, PMT and migration in primary mouse pericytes. Combined inhibition of Smad2/3 and mTOR showed synergistic effects on attenuating α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and cell proliferation. In mice with laser-induced CNV, the administration of the Akt/mTOR inhibitors suppressed pericyte proliferation and alleviated the severity of subretinal fibrosis. Our results showed that PMT plays a pivotal role in subretinal fibrosis, which was induced by TGF-β2 through the Smad2/3 and Akt/mTOR pathways. Thus, inhibiting PMT may be a novel strategy for the treatment of subretinal fibrosis. The identification of a new cell type that plays a crucial role in causing fibrosis under the retina could improve treatment of eye disease. Effective treatments exist for diseases that cause impairment and loss of vision in elderly people, but success can be limited by the development of subretinal fibrosis. Jingfa Zhang at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China, and co-workers used mice with laser-induced retinal damage to explore how subretinal fibrosis may result from transition of pericytes, multi-functional cells in the capillaries, into myofibroblasts, cells associated with fibrosis. The overexpression of a growth factor called TGF-β2 induced pericytes to infiltrate the subretinal area and pericyte-myofibroblast transition via two signalling pathways. Inhibiting these pathways may help to treat subretinal fibrosis, and one option is the use of inhibitors of AKT/mTOR which may slow the ageing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yumeng Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingting Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueting Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghua Qiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shigatse People's Hospital, Xizang, China
| | - Dawei Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine; Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China.
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Nishinaka A, Tanaka M, Aoshima K, Kuriyama A, Sasaki T, Otsu W, Yasuda H, Nakamura S, Shimazawa M, Hara H. The pathological association between the anterior eye segment and the retina in a murine model of neovascular glaucoma. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22323. [PMID: 35485981 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101917r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is caused by the formation of new blood vessels in the angle, iris, and cornea in retinal ischemic disease, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO), which can reduce the visual acuity. However, the pathophysiological symptoms of NVG are still not well understood because there is no model for the formation of NVG in the angle, iris, and cornea. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of NVG during ischemic disease, in a murine model of retinal ischemia. We evaluated the changes of the intraocular pressure (IOP) and pathological symptoms in the anterior eye segment and retina in this model, and the changes in the RNA or protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibrosis-related factors were analyzed in the retina and cornea by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction or western blot, respectively. Furthermore, we examined the changes in IOP after intravitreal injection of an anti-VEGF antibody. First, NVG formed in the retinal ischemic murine model, and the IOP was elevated in mice with NVG formation. Interestingly, VEGF expression was decreased in the retina but increased in the cornea in the murine model of NVG. On the other hand, fibrosis-related factors were increased in the retina and also significantly increased in the cornea in NVG. Moreover, the administration of anti-VEGF antibody immediately after vessel occlusion suppressed the increase in IOP, but administration at 7 days after vessel occlusion accelerated the increase in IOP. These findings suggest that the formation of NVG may be correlated with the pathological symptoms of retinal ischemic disease, via changes in VEGF and fibrosis-related factor expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anri Nishinaka
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Miruto Tanaka
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kota Aoshima
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Aika Kuriyama
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sasaki
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Wataru Otsu
- Department of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hiroto Yasuda
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Nakamura
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Shimazawa
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan.,Department of Biomedical Research Laboratory, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hideaki Hara
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biofunctional Evaluation, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
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Wang J, Tao Z, Deng H, Cui Y, Xu Z, Lyu Q, Zhao J. Therapeutic implications of nanodrug and tissue engineering for retinal pigment epithelium-related diseases. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:5657-5677. [PMID: 35352082 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr08337f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), as a single layer of cells that performs multiple functions posteriorly in the eye, is a promising target site for the prevention and treatment of several clinical diseases, including proliferative diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, chorionic neovascularization, and retinitis pigmentosa. In recent decades, several nanodrug delivery platforms and tissue-engineered RPE have been widely developed to treat RPE-related diseases. This work summarizes the recent advances in nanoplatforms and tissue engineering scaffolds developed in these fields. The diseases associated with pathological RPE and their common therapy strategies are first introduced. Then, the recent progress made with a variety of drug delivery systems is presented, with an emphasis on the modification strategies of nanomaterials for targeted delivery. Tissue engineering-mediated RPE transplantation for treating these diseases is subsequently described. Finally, the clinical translation challenges in these fields are discussed in depth. This article will offer readers a better understanding of emerging nanotechnology and tissue engineering related to the treatment of RPE-related diseases and could facilitate their widespread use in experiments in vivo and in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen Eye Hospital affiliated to Jinan University, School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, China.
| | - Zhengyang Tao
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen Eye Hospital affiliated to Jinan University, School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, China.
| | - Hongwei Deng
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen Eye Hospital affiliated to Jinan University, School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, China.
| | - Yubo Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China.
| | - Zhirong Xu
- Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121000, P.R. China
| | - Qinghua Lyu
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen Eye Hospital affiliated to Jinan University, School of Optometry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518000, China.
- Institute of Microscale Optoelectronics, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China.
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Reese CF, Chinnakkannu P, Tourkina E, Hoffman S, Kuppuswamy D. Multiple subregions within the caveolin-1 scaffolding domain inhibit fibrosis, microvascular leakage, and monocyte migration. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264413. [PMID: 35213624 PMCID: PMC8880820 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (CSD, amino acids 82-101 of caveolin-1) has been shown to suppress bleomycin-induced lung and skin fibrosis and angiotensin II (AngII)-induced myocardial fibrosis. To identify active subregions within CSD, we split its sequence into three slightly overlapping 8-amino acid subregions (82-89, 88-95, and 94-101). Interestingly, all three peptides showed activity. In bleomycin-treated mice, all three subregions suppressed the pathological effects on lung and skin tissue morphology. In addition, while bone marrow monocytes isolated from bleomycin-treated mice showed greatly enhanced migration in vitro toward CXCL12, treatment in vivo with CSD and its subregions almost completely suppressed this enhanced migration. In AngII-induced heart failure, both 82-89 and 88-95 significantly suppressed fibrosis (both Col I and HSP47 levels), microvascular leakage, and heart weight/ body weight ratio (HW/BW) while improving ventricular function. In contrast, while 94-101 suppressed the increase in Col I, it did not improve the other parameters. The idea that all three subregions can be active depending on the assay was further supported by experiments studying the in vitro migration of human monocytes in which all three subregions were extremely active. These studies are very novel in that it has been suggested that there is only one active region within CSD that is centered on amino acids 90-92. In contrast, we demonstrate here the presence of other active regions within CSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles F. Reese
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Unites States of America
| | - Panneerselvam Chinnakkannu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Unites States of America
| | - Elena Tourkina
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Unites States of America
| | - Stanley Hoffman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Unites States of America
| | - Dhandapani Kuppuswamy
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, Unites States of America
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Clare AJ, Liu J, Copland DA, Theodoropoulou S, Dick AD. Unravelling the therapeutic potential of IL-33 for atrophic AMD. Eye (Lond) 2022; 36:266-272. [PMID: 34531552 PMCID: PMC8807696 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01725-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative disease affecting the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors in the macula, is the leading cause of central blindness in the elderly. AMD progresses to advanced stages of the disease, atrophic AMD (aAMD), or in 15% of cases "wet" or neovascular AMD (nAMD), associated with substantial vision loss. Whilst there has been advancement in therapies treating nAMD, to date, there are no licenced effective treatments for the 85% affected by aAMD, with disease managed by changes to diet, vitamin supplements, and regular monitoring. AMD has a complex pathogenesis, involving highly integrated and common age-related disease pathways, including dysregulated complement/inflammation, impaired autophagy, and oxidative stress. The intricacy of AMD pathogenesis makes therapeutic development challenging and identifying a target that combats the converging disease pathways is essential to provide a globally effective treatment. Interleukin-33 is a cytokine, classically known for the proinflammatory role it plays in allergic disease. Recent evidence across degenerative and inflammatory disease conditions reveals a diverse immune-modulatory role for IL-33, with promising therapeutic potential. Here, we will review IL-33 function in disease and discuss the future potential for this homeostatic cytokine in treating AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J. Clare
- grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jian Liu
- grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David A. Copland
- grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sofia Theodoropoulou
- grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew D. Dick
- grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK ,grid.5337.20000 0004 1936 7603School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK ,grid.439257.e0000 0000 8726 5837NIHR Biomedical Research Centre of Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
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De Rossi G, Da Vitoria Lobo ME, Greenwood J, Moss SE. LRG1 as a novel therapeutic target in eye disease. Eye (Lond) 2022; 36:328-340. [PMID: 34987199 PMCID: PMC8807626 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01807-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal and choroidal diseases are major causes of blindness and visual impairment in the developed world and on the rise due to an ageing population and diabetes epidemic. Standard of care is centred around blockade of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), but despite having halved the number of patients losing sight, a high rate of patient non-response and loss of efficacy over time are key challenges. Dysregulation of vascular homoeostasis, coupled with fibrosis and inflammation, are major culprits driving sight-threatening eye diseases. Improving our knowledge of these pathological processes should inform the development of new drugs to address the current clinical challenges for patients. Leucine-rich α-2 glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) is an emerging key player in vascular dysfunction, inflammation and fibrosis. Under physiological conditions, LRG1 is constitutively expressed by the liver and granulocytes, but little is known about its normal biological function. In pathological scenarios, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD), its expression is ectopically upregulated and it acquires a much better understood pathogenic role. Context-dependent modulation of the transforming growth-factor β (TGFβ) pathway is one of the main activities of LRG1, but additional roles have recently been emerging. This review aims to highlight the clinical and pre-clinical evidence for the pathogenic contribution of LRG1 to vascular retinopathies, as well as extrapolate from other diseases, functions which may be relevant to eye disease. Finally, we will provide a current update on the development of anti-LRG1 therapies for the treatment of nvAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia De Rossi
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
| | | | - John Greenwood
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Stephen E Moss
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
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