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Ikeda T, Jin D, Takai S, Nakamura K, Nemoto E, Kojima S, Oku H. Blastocyst-like Structures in the Peripheral Retina of Young Adult Beagles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6045. [PMID: 38892233 PMCID: PMC11172769 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116045] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In this immunohistological study on the peripheral retina of 3-year-old beagle dogs, excised retina specimens were immunostained with antibodies against nestin, Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, CDX2, cytokeratin 18 (CK 18), RPE65, and YAP1, as well as hematoxylin and DAPI, two nuclear stains. Our findings revealed solitary cysts of various sizes in the inner retina. Intriguingly, a mass of small round cells with scant cytoplasms was observed in the cavity of small cysts, while many disorganized cells partially occupied the cavity of the large cysts. The small cysts were strongly positive for nestin, Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, CDX2, CK18, and YAP1. RPE65-positive cells were exclusively observed in the tissue surrounding the cysts. Since RPE65 is a specific marker of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, the surrounding cells of the peripheral cysts were presumably derived from RPE cells that migrated intraretinally. In the small cysts, intense positive staining for nestin, a marker of retinal stem cells, seemed to indicate that they were derived from retinal stem cells. The morphology and positive staining for markers of blastocyst and RPE cells indicated that the small cysts may have formed structures resembling the blastocyst, possibly caused by the interaction between retinal stem cells and migrated RPE cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsunehiko Ikeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Kaisei Hospital, Osaka 532-0003, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (E.N.); (S.K.); (H.O.)
| | - Denan Jin
- Department of Innovative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (D.J.); (S.T.)
| | - Shinji Takai
- Department of Innovative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (D.J.); (S.T.)
| | | | - Emika Nemoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (E.N.); (S.K.); (H.O.)
| | - Shota Kojima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (E.N.); (S.K.); (H.O.)
| | - Hidehiro Oku
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (E.N.); (S.K.); (H.O.)
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2
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Parain K, Chesneau A, Locker M, Borday C, Perron M. Regeneration from three cellular sources and ectopic mini-retina formation upon neurotoxic retinal degeneration in Xenopus. Glia 2024; 72:759-776. [PMID: 38225726 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24502] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Regenerative abilities are not evenly distributed across the animal kingdom. The underlying modalities are also highly variable. Retinal repair can involve the mobilization of different cellular sources, including ciliary marginal zone (CMZ) stem cells, the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), or Müller glia. To investigate whether the magnitude of retinal damage influences the regeneration modality of the Xenopus retina, we developed a model based on cobalt chloride (CoCl2 ) intraocular injection, allowing for a dose-dependent control of cell death extent. Analyses in Xenopus laevis revealed that limited CoCl2 -mediated neurotoxicity only triggers cone loss and results in a few Müller cells reentering the cell cycle. Severe CoCl2 -induced retinal degeneration not only potentializes Müller cell proliferation but also enhances CMZ activity and unexpectedly triggers RPE reprogramming. Surprisingly, reprogrammed RPE self-organizes into an ectopic mini-retina-like structure laid on top of the original retina. It is thus likely that the injury paradigm determines the awakening of different stem-like cell populations. We further show that these cellular sources exhibit distinct neurogenic capacities without any bias towards lost cells. This is particularly striking for Müller glia, which regenerates several types of neurons, but not cones, the most affected cell type. Finally, we found that X. tropicalis also has the ability to recruit Müller cells and reprogram its RPE following CoCl2 -induced damage, whereas only CMZ involvement was reported in previously examined degenerative models. Altogether, these findings highlight the critical role of the injury paradigm and reveal that three cellular sources can be reactivated in the very same degenerative model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Parain
- CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Saclay, France
| | - Albert Chesneau
- CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Saclay, France
| | - Morgane Locker
- CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Saclay, France
| | - Caroline Borday
- CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Saclay, France
| | - Muriel Perron
- CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Saclay, France
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3
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Rzhanova LA, Markitantova YV, Aleksandrova MA. Recent Achievements in the Heterogeneity of Mammalian and Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Search of a Stem Cell. Cells 2024; 13:281. [PMID: 38334673 PMCID: PMC10854871 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030281] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells are important fundamentally for the development and function of the retina. In this regard, the study of the morphological and molecular properties of RPE cells, as well as their regenerative capabilities, is of particular importance for biomedicine. However, these studies are complicated by the fact that, despite the external morphological similarity of RPE cells, the RPE is a population of heterogeneous cells, the molecular genetic properties of which have begun to be revealed by sequencing methods only in recent years. This review carries out an analysis of the data from morphological and molecular genetic studies of the heterogeneity of RPE cells in mammals and humans, which reveals the individual differences in the subpopulations of RPE cells and the possible specificity of their functions. Particular attention is paid to discussing the properties of "stemness," proliferation, and plasticity in the RPE, which may be useful for uncovering the mechanisms of retinal diseases associated with pathologies of the RPE and finding new ways of treating them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuliya V. Markitantova
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.R.); (M.A.A.)
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4
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Perez-Estrada JR, Tangeman JA, Proto-Newton M, Sanaka H, Smucker B, Del Rio-Tsonis K. DISTINCT METABOLIC STATES DIRECT RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM CELL FATE DECISIONS. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.26.559631. [PMID: 37808829 PMCID: PMC10557760 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.26.559631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
During tissue regeneration, proliferation, dedifferentiation, and reprogramming are necessary to restore lost structures. However, it is not fully understood how metabolism intersects with these processes. Chicken embryos can regenerate their retina through retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) reprogramming when treated with fibroblast factor 2 (FGF2). Using transcriptome profiling, we uncovered extensive regulation of gene sets pertaining to proliferation, neurogenesis, and glycolysis throughout RPE-to-neural retina reprogramming. By manipulating cell media composition, we determined that glucose, glutamine, or pyruvate are sufficient to support RPE reprogramming identifying glycolysis as a requisite. Conversely, the induction of oxidative metabolism by activation of pyruvate dehydrogenase induces Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), while simultaneously blocking the activation of neural retina fate. We also identify that EMT is partially driven by an oxidative environment. Our findings provide evidence that metabolism controls RPE cell fate decisions and provide insights into the metabolic state of RPE cells, which are prone to fate changes in regeneration and pathologies, such as proliferative vitreoretinopathy.
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5
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Grigoryan EN. Impact of Microgravity and Other Spaceflight Factors on Retina of Vertebrates and Humans In Vivo and In Vitro. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1263. [PMID: 37374046 DOI: 10.3390/life13061263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight (SF) increases the risk of developmental, regenerative, and physiological disorders in animals and humans. Astronauts, besides bone loss, muscle atrophy, and cardiovascular and immune system alterations, undergo ocular disorders affecting posterior eye tissues, including the retina. Few studies revealed abnormalities in the development and changes in the regeneration of eye tissues in lower vertebrates after SF and simulated microgravity. Under microgravity conditions, mammals show disturbances in the retinal vascular system and increased risk of oxidative stress that can lead to cell death in the retina. Animal studies provided evidence of gene expression changes associated with cellular stress, inflammation, and aberrant signaling pathways. Experiments using retinal cells in microgravity-modeling systems in vitro additionally indicated micro-g-induced changes at the molecular level. Here, we provide an overview of the literature and the authors' own data to assess the predictive value of structural and functional alterations for developing countermeasures and mitigating the SF effects on the human retina. Further emphasis is given to the importance of animal studies on the retina and other eye tissues in vivo and retinal cells in vitro aboard spacecraft for understanding alterations in the vertebrate visual system in response to stress caused by gravity variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora N Grigoryan
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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6
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Diacou R, Nandigrami P, Fiser A, Liu W, Ashery-Padan R, Cvekl A. Cell fate decisions, transcription factors and signaling during early retinal development. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101093. [PMID: 35817658 PMCID: PMC9669153 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The development of the vertebrate eyes is a complex process starting from anterior-posterior and dorso-ventral patterning of the anterior neural tube, resulting in the formation of the eye field. Symmetrical separation of the eye field at the anterior neural plate is followed by two symmetrical evaginations to generate a pair of optic vesicles. Next, reciprocal invagination of the optic vesicles with surface ectoderm-derived lens placodes generates double-layered optic cups. The inner and outer layers of the optic cups develop into the neural retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), respectively. In vitro produced retinal tissues, called retinal organoids, are formed from human pluripotent stem cells, mimicking major steps of retinal differentiation in vivo. This review article summarizes recent progress in our understanding of early eye development, focusing on the formation the eye field, optic vesicles, and early optic cups. Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies are integrated with classical in vivo genetic and functional studies to uncover a range of cellular mechanisms underlying early eye development. The functions of signal transduction pathways and lineage-specific DNA-binding transcription factors are dissected to explain cell-specific regulatory mechanisms underlying cell fate determination during early eye development. The functions of homeodomain (HD) transcription factors Otx2, Pax6, Lhx2, Six3 and Six6, which are required for early eye development, are discussed in detail. Comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms of early eye development provides insight into the molecular and cellular basis of developmental ocular anomalies, such as optic cup coloboma. Lastly, modeling human development and inherited retinal diseases using stem cell-derived retinal organoids generates opportunities to discover novel therapies for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raven Diacou
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Prithviraj Nandigrami
- Department of Systems and Computational Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Andras Fiser
- Department of Systems and Computational Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Ruth Ashery-Padan
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Ales Cvekl
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
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7
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Sharma P, Ramachandran R. Retina regeneration: lessons from vertebrates. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 1:kvac012. [PMID: 38596712 PMCID: PMC10913848 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvac012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Unlike mammals, vertebrates such as fishes and frogs exhibit remarkable tissue regeneration including the central nervous system. Retina being part of the central nervous system has attracted the interest of several research groups to explore its regenerative ability in different vertebrate models including mice. Fishes and frogs completely restore the size, shape and tissue structure of an injured retina. Several studies have unraveled molecular mechanisms underlying retina regeneration. In teleosts, soon after injury, the Müller glial cells of the retina reprogram to form a proliferating population of Müller glia-derived progenitor cells capable of differentiating into various neural cell types and Müller glia. In amphibians, the transdifferentiation of retinal pigment epithelium and differentiation of ciliary marginal zone cells contribute to retina regeneration. In chicks and mice, supplementation with external growth factors or genetic modifications cause a partial regenerative response in the damaged retina. The initiation of retina regeneration is achieved through sequential orchestration of gene expression through controlled modulations in the genetic and epigenetic landscape of the progenitor cells. Several developmental biology pathways are turned on during the Müller glia reprogramming, retinal pigment epithelium transdifferentiation and ciliary marginal zone differentiation. Further, several tumorigenic pathways and gene expression events also contribute to the complete regeneration cascade of events. In this review, we address the various retinal injury paradigms and subsequent gene expression events governed in different vertebrate species. Further, we compared how vertebrates such as teleost fishes and amphibians can achieve excellent regenerative responses in the retina compared with their mammalian counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, Knowledge City, SAS Nagar, Sector 81, Manauli PO, 140306 Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Rajesh Ramachandran
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, Knowledge City, SAS Nagar, Sector 81, Manauli PO, 140306 Mohali, Punjab, India
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8
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Self-Organization of the Retina during Eye Development, Retinal Regeneration In Vivo, and in Retinal 3D Organoids In Vitro. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061458. [PMID: 35740479 PMCID: PMC9221005 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-organization is a process that ensures histogenesis of the eye retina. This highly intricate phenomenon is not sufficiently studied due to its biological complexity and genetic heterogeneity. The review aims to summarize the existing central theories and ideas for a better understanding of retinal self-organization, as well as to address various practical problems of retinal biomedicine. The phenomenon of self-organization is discussed in the spatiotemporal context and illustrated by key findings during vertebrate retina development in vivo and retinal regeneration in amphibians in situ. Described also are histotypic 3D structures obtained from the disaggregated retinal progenitor cells of birds and retinal 3D organoids derived from the mouse and human pluripotent stem cells. The review highlights integral parts of retinal development in these conditions. On the cellular level, these include competence, differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, cooperative movements, and migration. On the physical level, the focus is on the mechanical properties of cell- and cell layer-derived forces and on the molecular level on factors responsible for gene regulation, such as transcription factors, signaling molecules, and epigenetic changes. Finally, the self-organization phenomenon is discussed as a basis for the production of retinal organoids, a promising model for a wide range of basic scientific and medical applications.
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9
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Tangeman JA, Pérez-Estrada JR, Van Zeeland E, Liu L, Danciutiu A, Grajales-Esquivel E, Smucker B, Liang C, Del Rio-Tsonis K. A Stage-Specific OTX2 Regulatory Network and Maturation-Associated Gene Programs Are Inherent Barriers to RPE Neural Competency. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:875155. [PMID: 35517508 PMCID: PMC9062105 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.875155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) exhibits a diverse range of plasticity across vertebrates and is a potential source of cells for the regeneration of retinal neurons. Embryonic amniotes possess a transitory ability to regenerate neural retina through the reprogramming of RPE cells in an FGF-dependent manner. Chicken RPE can regenerate neural retina at embryonic day 4 (E4), but RPE neural competence is lost by embryonic day 5 (E5). To identify mechanisms that underlie loss of regenerative competence, we performed RNA and ATAC sequencing using E4 and E5 chicken RPE, as well as at both stages following retinectomy and FGF2 treatment. We find that genes associated with neural retina fate remain FGF2-inducible in the non-regenerative E5 RPE. Coinciding with fate restriction, RPE cells stably exit the cell cycle and dampen the expression of cell cycle progression genes normally expressed during regeneration, including E2F1. E5 RPE exhibits progressive activation of gene pathways associated with mature function independently of retinectomy or FGF2 treatment, including retinal metabolism, pigmentation synthesis, and ion transport. Moreover, the E5 RPE fails to efficiently repress OTX2 expression in response to FGF2. Predicted OTX2 binding motifs undergo robust accessibility increases in E5 RPE, many of which coincide with putative regulatory elements for genes known to facilitate RPE differentiation and maturation. Together, these results uncover widespread alterations in gene regulation that culminate in the loss of RPE neural competence and implicate OTX2 as a key determinant in solidifying the RPE fate. These results yield valuable insight to the basis of RPE lineage restriction during early development and will be of importance in understanding the varying capacities for RPE-derived retinal regeneration observed among vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared A. Tangeman
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - J. Raúl Pérez-Estrada
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Emily Van Zeeland
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Alexandra Danciutiu
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Byran Smucker
- Department of Statistics, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Chun Liang
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH, United States
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10
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Grigoryan EN. Pigment Epithelia of the Eye: Cell-Type Conversion in Regeneration and Disease. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12030382. [PMID: 35330132 PMCID: PMC8955580 DOI: 10.3390/life12030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigment epithelial cells (PECs) of the retina (RPE), ciliary body, and iris (IPE) are capable of altering their phenotype. The main pathway of phenotypic switching of eye PECs in vertebrates and humans in vivo and/or in vitro is neural/retinal. Besides, cells of amphibian IPE give rise to the lens and its derivatives, while mammalian and human RPE can be converted along the mesenchymal pathway. The PECs’ capability of conversion in vivo underlies the lens and retinal regeneration in lower vertebrates and retinal diseases such as proliferative vitreoretinopathy and fibrosis in mammals and humans. The present review considers these processes studied in vitro and in vivo in animal models and in humans. The molecular basis of conversion strategies in PECs is elucidated. Being predetermined onto- and phylogenetically, it includes a species-specific molecular context, differential expression of transcription factors, signaling pathways, and epigenomic changes. The accumulated knowledge regarding the mechanisms of PECs phenotypic switching allows the development of approaches to specified conversion for many purposes: obtaining cells for transplantation, creating conditions to stimulate natural regeneration of the retina and the lens, blocking undesirable conversions associated with eye pathology, and finding molecular markers of pathology to be targets of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora N Grigoryan
- Kol'tsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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11
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Woogeng IN, Kaczkowski B, Abugessaisa I, Hu H, Tachibana A, Sahara Y, Hon CC, Hasegawa A, Sakai N, Nishida M, Sanyal H, Sho J, Kajita K, Kasukawa T, Takasato M, Carninci P, Maeda A, Mandai M, Arner E, Takahashi M, Kime C. Inducing human retinal pigment epithelium-like cells from somatic tissue. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:289-306. [PMID: 35030321 PMCID: PMC8828536 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative medicine relies on basic research outcomes that are only practical when cost effective. The human eyeball requires the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to interface the neural retina and the choroid at large. Millions of people suffer from age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a blinding multifactor genetic disease among RPE degradation pathologies. Recently, autologous pluripotent stem-cell-derived RPE cells were prohibitively expensive due to time; therefore, we developed a faster reprogramming system. We stably induced RPE-like cells (iRPE) from human fibroblasts (Fibs) by conditional overexpression of both broad plasticity and lineage-specific transcription factors (TFs). iRPE cells displayed critical RPE benchmarks and significant in vivo integration in transplanted retinas. Herein, we detail the iRPE system with comprehensive single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) profiling to interpret and characterize its best cells. We anticipate that our system may enable robust retinal cell induction for basic research and affordable autologous human RPE tissue for regenerative cell therapy. Human Fibs reprogrammed to stable RPE-like cells Reprogramming factors selected for pioneering, plasticity, lineage, and target cell Nicotinamide (NIC) and Chetomin (CTM) improved the reprogramming outcomes scRNA-seq analysis identifies high-quality subpopulation resembling model cells
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Imad Abugessaisa
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Haiming Hu
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | | | - Yoshiki Sahara
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan; Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology and Development, Department of Animal Development and Physiology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Department of Renal and Cardiovascular Research, New Drug Research Division, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Tokushima 771-0192, Japan
| | - Chung-Chau Hon
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Akira Hasegawa
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Noriko Sakai
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | | | - Hashimita Sanyal
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Junki Sho
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kajita
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Takeya Kasukawa
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Minoru Takasato
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan; Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology and Development, Department of Animal Development and Physiology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Piero Carninci
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan; Human Technopole, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 1, Milan, Italy
| | - Akiko Maeda
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Erik Arner
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Cody Kime
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.
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12
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Sherpa RD, Hui SP. An insight on established retinal injury mechanisms and prevalent retinal stem cell activation pathways in vertebrate models. Animal Model Exp Med 2021; 4:189-203. [PMID: 34557646 PMCID: PMC8446703 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Implementing different tools and injury mechanisms in multiple animal models of retina regeneration, researchers have discovered the existence of retinal stem/progenitor cells. Although they appear to be distributed uniformly across the vertebrate lineage, the reparative potential of the retina is mainly restricted to lower vertebrates. Regenerative repair post-injury requires the creation of a proliferative niche, vital for proper stem cell activation, propagation, and lineage differentiation. This seems to be lacking in mammals. Hence, in this review, we first discuss the many forms of retinal injuries that have been generated using animal models. Next, we discuss how they are utilized to stimulate regeneration and mimic eye disease pathologies. The key to driving stem cell activation in mammals relies on the information we can gather from these models. Lastly, we present a brief update about the genes, growth factors, and signaling pathways that have been brought to light using these models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subhra Prakash Hui
- S. N. Pradhan Centre for NeurosciencesUniversity of CalcuttaKolkataIndia
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13
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Tangeman JA, Luz-Madrigal A, Sreeskandarajan S, Grajales-Esquivel E, Liu L, Liang C, Tsonis PA, Del Rio-Tsonis K. Transcriptome Profiling of Embryonic Retinal Pigment Epithelium Reprogramming. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060840. [PMID: 34072522 PMCID: PMC8226911 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The plasticity of human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) has been observed during proliferative vitreoretinopathy, a defective repair process during which injured RPE gives rise to fibrosis. In contrast, following injury, the RPE of the embryonic chicken can be reprogrammed to regenerate neural retina in a fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2)-dependent manner. To better explore the mechanisms underlying embryonic RPE reprogramming, we used laser capture microdissection to isolate RNA from (1) intact RPE, (2) transiently reprogrammed RPE (t-rRPE) 6 h post-retinectomy, and (3) reprogrammed RPE (rRPE) 6 h post-retinectomy with FGF2 treatment. Using RNA-seq, we observed the acute repression of genes related to cell cycle progression in the injured t-rRPE, as well as up-regulation of genes associated with injury. In contrast, the rRPE was strongly enriched for mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-responsive genes and retina development factors, confirming that FGF2 and the downstream MAPK cascade are the main drivers of embryonic RPE reprogramming. Clustering and pathway enrichment analysis was used to create an integrated network of the core processes associated with RPE reprogramming, including key terms pertaining to injury response, migration, actin dynamics, and cell cycle progression. Finally, we employed gene set enrichment analysis to suggest a previously uncovered role for epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) machinery in the initiation of embryonic chick RPE reprogramming. The EMT program is accompanied by extensive, coordinated regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) associated factors, and these observations together suggest an early role for ECM and EMT-like dynamics during reprogramming. Our study provides for the first time an in-depth transcriptomic analysis of embryonic RPE reprogramming and will prove useful in guiding future efforts to understand proliferative disorders of the RPE and to promote retinal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared A. Tangeman
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Agustín Luz-Madrigal
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Sutharzan Sreeskandarajan
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
- Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Chun Liang
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Panagiotis A. Tsonis
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton and Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering at the University of Dayton (TREND), Dayton, OH 45469, USA;
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA; (J.A.T.); (A.L.-M.); (S.S.); (E.G.-E.); (L.L.); (C.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +513-529-3128; Fax: +513-529-6900
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14
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George SM, Lu F, Rao M, Leach LL, Gross JM. The retinal pigment epithelium: Development, injury responses, and regenerative potential in mammalian and non-mammalian systems. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 85:100969. [PMID: 33901682 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diseases that result in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Atrophic (dry) AMD is the most prevalent form of AMD and there are currently no effective therapies to prevent RPE cell death or restore RPE cells lost from AMD. An intriguing approach to treat AMD and other RPE degenerative diseases is to develop therapies focused on stimulating endogenous RPE regeneration. For this to become feasible, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying RPE development, injury responses and regenerative potential is needed. In mammals, RPE regeneration is extremely limited; small lesions can be repaired by the expansion of adjacent RPE cells, but large lesions cannot be repaired as remaining RPE cells are unable to functionally replace lost RPE tissue. In some injury paradigms, RPE cells proliferate but do not regenerate a morphologically normal monolayer, while in others, proliferation is pathogenic and results in further disruption to the retina. This is in contrast to non-mammalian vertebrates, which possess tremendous RPE regenerative potential. Here, we discuss what is known about RPE formation during development in mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrates, we detail the processes by which RPE cells respond to injury, and we describe examples of RPE-to-retina and RPE-to-RPE regeneration in non-mammalian vertebrates. Finally, we outline barriers to RPE-dependent regeneration in mammals that could potentially be overcome to stimulate a regenerative response from the RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M George
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Mishal Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Lyndsay L Leach
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Gross
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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15
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Shams Najafabadi H, Sadeghi M, Zibaii MI, Soheili ZS, Samiee S, Ghasemi P, Hosseini M, Gholami Pourbadie H, Ahmadieh H, Taghizadeh S, Ranaei Pirmardan E. Optogenetic control of neural differentiation in Opto-mGluR6 engineered retinal pigment epithelial cell line and mesenchymal stem cells. J Cell Biochem 2021; 122:851-869. [PMID: 33847009 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In retinal degenerative disorders, when neural retinal cells are damaged, cell transplantation is one of the most promising therapeutic approaches. Optogenetic technology plays an essential role in the neural differentiation of stem cells via membrane depolarization. This study explored the efficacy of blue light stimulation in neuroretinal differentiation of Opto-mGluR6-engineered mouse retinal pigment epithelium (mRPE) and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). mRPE and BMSCs were selected for optogenetic study due to their capability to differentiate into retinal-specific neurons. BMSCs were isolated and phenotypically characterized by the expression of mesenchymal stem cell-specific markers, CD44 (99%) and CD105 (98.8%). mRPE culture identity was confirmed by expression of RPE-specific marker, RPE65, and epithelial cell marker, ZO-1. mRPE cells and BMSCs were transduced with AAV-MCS-IRES-EGFP-Opto-mGluR6 viral vector and stimulated for 5 days with blue light (470 nm). RNA and protein expression of Opto-mGluR6 were verified. Optogenetic stimulation-induced elevated intracellular Ca2+ levels in mRPE- and BMS-treated cells. Significant increase in cell growth rate and G1/S phase transition were detected in mRPE- and BMSCs-treated cultures. Pou4f1, Dlx2, Eomes, Barlh2, Neurod2, Neurod6, Rorb, Rxrg, Nr2f2, Ascl1, Hes5, and Sox8 were overexpressed in treated BMSCs and Barlh2, Rorb, and Sox8 were overexpressed in treated mRPE cells. Expression of Rho, Thy1, OPN1MW, Recoverin, and CRABP, as retinal-specific neuron markers, in mRPE and BMS cell cultures were demonstrated. Differentiation of ganglion, amacrine, photoreceptor cells, and bipolar and Muller precursors were determined in BMSCs-treated culture and were compared with mRPE. mRPE cells represented more abundant terminal Muller glial differentiation compared with BMSCs. Our results also demonstrated that optical stimulation increased the intracellular Ca2+ level and proliferation and differentiation of Opto-mGluR6-engineered BMSCs. It seems that optogenetic stimulation of mRPE- and BMSCs-engineered cells would be a potential therapeutic approach for retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Shams Najafabadi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad I Zibaii
- Laser & Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra-Soheila Soheili
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Samiee
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Ghasemi
- Laser & Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosseini
- Laser & Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Taghizadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ranaei Pirmardan
- Molecular Biomarkers Nano-imaging Laboratory, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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Chen L, Carlton M, Chen X, Kaur N, Ryan H, Parker TJ, Lin Z, Xiao Y, Zhou Y. Effect of fibronectin, FGF-2, and BMP4 in the stemness maintenance of BMSCs and the metabolic and proteomic cues involved. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:165. [PMID: 33676544 PMCID: PMC7936451 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02227-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Growing evidence suggests that the pluripotent state of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) relies on specific local microenvironmental cues such as adhesion molecules and growth factors. Fibronectin (FN), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) are the key players in the regulation of stemness and lineage commitment of MSCs. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the pluripotency and multilineage differentiation of bone marrow-derived MSCs (BMSCs) with the introduction of FN, FGF-2, and BMP4 and to identify the metabolic and proteomic cues involved in stemness maintenance. Methods To elucidate the stemness of BMSCs when treated with FN, FGF-2, and BMP4, the pluripotency markers of OCT4, SOX2, and c-MYC in BMSCs were monitored by real-time PCR and/or western blot. The nuclear translocation of OCT4, SOX2, and c-MYC was investigated by immunofluorescence staining. Multilineage differentiation of the treated BMSCs was determined by relevant differentiation markers. To identify the molecular signatures of BMSC stemness, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and bioinformatics analysis were utilized to determine the metabolite and protein profiles associated with stem cell maintenance. Results Our results demonstrated that the expression of stemness markers decreased with BMSC passaging, and the manipulation of the microenvironment with fibronectin and growth factors (FGF2 and BMP4) can significantly improve BMSC stemness. Of note, we revealed 7 differentially expressed metabolites, the target genes of these metabolites may have important implications in the maintenance of BMSCs through their effects on metabolic activity, energy production, and potentially protein production. We also identified 21 differentially abundant proteins, which involved in multiple pathways, including metabolic, autophagy-related, and signaling pathways regulating the pluripotency of stem cells. Additionally, bioinformatics analysis comfirned the correlation between metabolic and proteomic profiling, suggesting that the importance of metabolism and proteome networks and their reciprocal communication in the preservation of stemness. Conclusions These results indicate that the culture environment supplemented with the culture cocktail (FN, FGF2, and BMP4) plays an essential role in shaping the pluripotent state of BMSCs. Both the metabolism and proteome networks are involved in this process and the modulation of cell-fate decision making. All these findings may contribute to the application of MSCs for regenerative medicine. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02227-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Chen
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, Guangdong, China
| | - Morgan Carlton
- Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Xiaodan Chen
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, Guangdong, China
| | - Navdeep Kaur
- Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Hollie Ryan
- Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Tony J Parker
- Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
| | - Zhengmei Lin
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yin Xiao
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510055, Guangdong, China. .,Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia.
| | - Yinghong Zhou
- Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia.
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17
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Luz-Madrigal A, Grajales-Esquivel E, Tangeman J, Kosse S, Liu L, Wang K, Fausey A, Liang C, Tsonis PA, Del Rio-Tsonis K. DNA demethylation is a driver for chick retina regeneration. Epigenetics 2020; 15:998-1019. [PMID: 32290791 PMCID: PMC7518676 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1747742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular reprogramming resets the epigenetic landscape to drive shifts in transcriptional programmes and cell identity. The embryonic chick can regenerate a complete neural retina, after retinectomy, via retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) reprogramming in the presence of FGF2. In this study, we systematically analysed the reprogramming competent chick RPE prior to injury, and during different stages of reprogramming. In addition to changes in the expression of genes associated with epigenetic modifications during RPE reprogramming, we observed dynamic changes in histone marks associated with bivalent chromatin (H3K27me3/H3K4me3) and intermediates of the process of DNA demethylation including 5hmC and 5caC. Comprehensive analysis of the methylome by whole-genome bisulphite sequencing (WGBS) confirmed extensive rearrangements of DNA methylation patterns including differentially methylated regions (DMRs) found at promoters of genes associated with chromatin organization and fibroblast growth factor production. We also identified Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 3 (TET3) as an important factor for DNA demethylation and retina regeneration, capable of reprogramming RPE in the absence of exogenous FGF2. In conclusion, we demonstrate that injury early in RPE reprogramming triggers genome-wide dynamic changes in chromatin, including bivalent chromatin and DNA methylation. In the presence of FGF2, these dynamic modifications are further sustained in the commitment to form a new retina. Our findings reveal active DNA demethylation as an important process that may be applied to remove the epigenetic barriers in order to regenerate retina in mammals. ABBREVIATIONS bp: Base pair; DMR: Differentially methylated region; DMC: Differentially methylated cytosines; GFP: Green fluorescent protein; PCR: Polymerase chain reaction. TET: Ten-eleven translocation; RPE: retinal pigment epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Luz-Madrigal
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
- Department of Biology and Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Jared Tangeman
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Sarah Kosse
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Andrew Fausey
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Chun Liang
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Panagiotis A. Tsonis
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton and Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering at the University of Dayton (TREND), Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
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18
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Rzhanova LA, Kuznetsova AV, Aleksandrova MA. Reprogramming of Differentiated Mammalian and Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium: Current Achievements and Prospects. Russ J Dev Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360420040062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Impairment of the homeostatic and functional integrity of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is the main cause of some degenerative diseases of the human eye, which are accompanied by loss of eyesight. Despite the significant progress made over the past decades in the development of new methods for treatment for this pathology, there are still several complications when using surgical methods for correction of eyesight and so far insurmountable limitations in the applications of modern approaches, such as gene therapy and genetic engineering. One of the promising approaches to the treatment of degenerative diseases of the retina may be an approach based on the application of regenerative capacities of its endogenous cells with high plasticity, in particular, of RPE cells and Müller glia. Currently, vertebrate RPE cells are of great interest as a source of new photoreceptors and other neurons in the degrading retina in vivo. In this regard, the possibilities of their direct reprogramming by genetic, epigenetic, and chemical methods and their combination are being investigated. This review focuses on research in gene-directed reprogramming of vertebrate RPE cells into retinal neurons, with detailed analysis of the genes used as the main reprogramming factors, comparative analysis, and extrapolation of experimental data from animals to humans. Also, this review covers studies on the application of alternative approaches to gene-directed reprogramming, such as chemical-mediated reprogramming with the use of cocktails of therapeutic low-molecular-weight compounds and microRNAs. In general, the research results indicate the complexity of the process for direct reprogramming of human RPE cells into retinal neurons. However, taking into account the results of direct reprogramming of vertebrate cells and the accessibility of human RPE cells for various vectors that deliver a variety of molecules to cells, such as transcription factors, chimeric endonucleases, recombinant proteins, and low-weight molecular compounds, the most optimal combination of factors for the successful conversion of human RPE cells to retinal neurons can be suggested.
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19
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Grigoryan EN. Potential Endogenous Cell Sources for Retinal Regeneration in Vertebrates and Humans: Progenitor Traits and Specialization. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E208. [PMID: 32664635 PMCID: PMC7400588 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8070208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal diseases often cause the loss of photoreceptor cells and, consequently, impairment of vision. To date, several cell populations are known as potential endogenous retinal regeneration cell sources (RRCSs): the eye ciliary zone, the retinal pigment epithelium, the iris, and Müller glia. Factors that can activate the regenerative responses of RRCSs are currently under investigation. The present review considers accumulated data on the relationship between the progenitor properties of RRCSs and the features determining their differentiation. Specialized RRCSs (all except the ciliary zone in low vertebrates), despite their differences, appear to be partially "prepared" to exhibit their plasticity and be reprogrammed into retinal neurons due to the specific gene expression and epigenetic landscape. The "developmental" characteristics of RRCS gene expression are predefined by the pathway by which these cell populations form during eye morphogenesis; the epigenetic features responsible for chromatin organization in RRCSs are under intracellular regulation. Such genetic and epigenetic readiness is manifested in vivo in lower vertebrates and in vitro in higher ones under conditions permissive for cell phenotype transformation. Current studies on gene expression in RRCSs and changes in their epigenetic landscape help find experimental approaches to replacing dead cells through recruiting cells from endogenous resources in vertebrates and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora N Grigoryan
- Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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20
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Viera-Vera J, García-Arrarás JE. Retinoic Acid Signaling Is Associated with Cell Proliferation, Muscle Cell Dedifferentiation, and Overall Rudiment Size during Intestinal Regeneration in the Sea Cucumber, Holothuria glaberrima. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9120873. [PMID: 31847189 PMCID: PMC6995554 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost every organism has the ability of repairing damaged tissues or replacing lost and worn out body parts, nevertheless the degree of the response substantially differs between each species. Adult sea cucumbers from the Holothuria glaberrima species can eviscerate various organs and the intestinal system is the first one to regenerate. This process involves the formation of a blastema-like structure that derives from the torn mesentery edges by the intervention of specific cellular processes (e.g., cell dedifferentiation and division). Still, the genetic networks controlling the regenerative response in this model system are just starting to be unraveled. In this work we examined if and how the retinoic acid (RA) signaling pathway is involved in the regenerative response of this deuterostome. We first identified and characterized the holothurian orthologs for short chain dehydrogenase/reductase 7 (SDR7) and aldehyde dehydrogenase family 8A1 (ALDH8A1), two enzymes respectively associated with retinaldehyde and RA anabolism. We then showed that the SDR7 transcript was differentially expressed during specific stages of intestinal regeneration while ALDH8A1 did not show significant differences in regenerating tissues when compared to those of normal (non-eviscerated) organisms. Finally, we investigated the consequences of modulating RA signaling during intestinal regeneration using pharmacological tools. We showed that application of an inhibitor (citral) of the enzyme synthesizing RA or a retinoic acid receptor (RAR) antagonist (LE135) resulted in organisms with a significantly smaller intestinal rudiment when compared to those treated with DMSO (vehicle). The two inhibitors caused a reduction in cell division and cell dedifferentiation in the new regenerate when compared to organisms treated with DMSO. Results of treatment with tazarotene (an RAR agonist) were not significantly different from the control. Taken together, these results suggest that the RA signaling pathway is regulating the cellular processes that are crucial for intestinal regeneration to occur. Thus, RA might be playing a role in echinoderm regeneration that is similar to what has been described in other animal systems.
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21
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Rothman J, Jarriault S. Developmental Plasticity and Cellular Reprogramming in Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetics 2019; 213:723-757. [PMID: 31685551 PMCID: PMC6827377 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.119.302333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
While Caenorhabditis elegans was originally regarded as a model for investigating determinate developmental programs, landmark studies have subsequently shown that the largely invariant pattern of development in the animal does not reflect irreversibility in rigidly fixed cell fates. Rather, cells at all stages of development, in both the soma and germline, have been shown to be capable of changing their fates through mutation or forced expression of fate-determining factors, as well as during the normal course of development. In this chapter, we review the basis for natural and induced cellular plasticity in C. elegans We describe the events that progressively restrict cellular differentiation during embryogenesis, starting with the multipotency-to-commitment transition (MCT) and subsequently through postembryonic development of the animal, and consider the range of molecular processes, including transcriptional and translational control systems, that contribute to cellular plasticity. These findings in the worm are discussed in the context of both classical and recent studies of cellular plasticity in vertebrate systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Rothman
- Department of MCD Biology and Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93111, and
| | - Sophie Jarriault
- IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), Department of Development and Stem Cells, CNRS UMR7104, Inserm U1258, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch CU Strasbourg, France
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22
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Webster MK, Barnett BJ, Stanchfield ML, Paris JR, Webster SE, Cooley-Themm CA, Levine EM, Otteson DC, Linn CL. Stimulation of Retinal Pigment Epithelium With an α7 nAChR Agonist Leads to Müller Glia Dependent Neurogenesis in the Adult Mammalian Retina. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:570-579. [PMID: 30721274 PMCID: PMC6363405 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The adult mammalian retina is typically incapable of regeneration when damaged by disease or trauma. Restoration of function would require generation of new adult neurons, something that until recently, mammals were thought to be incapable of doing. However, previous studies from this laboratory have shown that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) agonist, PNU-282987, induces cell cycle reentry of Müller glia and generation of mature retinal neurons in adult rats, in the absence of detectible injury. This study analyzes how PNU-282987 treatment in RPE leads to robust BrdU incorporation in Müller glia in adult mice and leads to generation of Müller-derived retinal progenitors and neuronal differentiation. Methods Retinal BrdU incorporation was examined after eye drop application of PNU-282987 in adult wild-type and transgenic mice that contain tamoxifen-inducible tdTomato Müller glia, or after intraocular injection of conditioned medium from PNU-282987–treated cultured RPE cells. Results PNU-282987 induced robust incorporation of BrdU in all layers of the adult mouse retina. The α7 nAChR agonist was found to stimulate cell cycle reentry of Müller glia and their generation of new retinal progenitors indirectly, via the RPE, in an α7 nAChR-dependent fashion. Conclusions The results from this study point to RPE as a contributor to Müller glial neurogenic responses. The manipulation of the RPE to stimulate retinal neurogenesis offers a new direction for developing novel and potentially transformative treatments to reverse the loss of neurons associated with neurodegenerative disease, traumatic injury, or aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark K Webster
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Betty J Barnett
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Megan L Stanchfield
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Joshua R Paris
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Sarah E Webster
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Cynthia A Cooley-Themm
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
| | - Edward M Levine
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Nashville, Tennessee, United States
| | - Deborah C Otteson
- University of Houston College of Optometry, Department of Physiological Optics and Vision Science, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Cindy L Linn
- Western Michigan University, Department of Biological Sciences, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
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Grigoryan EN, Radugina EA. Behavior of Stem-Like Cells, Precursors for Tissue Regeneration in Urodela, Under Conditions of Microgravity. Stem Cells Dev 2019; 28:423-437. [PMID: 30696352 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We summarize data from our experiments on stem-like cell-dependent regeneration in amphibians in microgravity. Considering its deleterious effect on many tissues, we asked whether microgravity is compatible with reparative processes, specifically activation and proliferation of source cells. Experiments were conducted using tailed amphibians, which combine profound regenerative capabilities with high robustness, allowing an in vivo study of lens, retina, limb, and tail regeneration in challenging settings of spaceflight. Microgravity promoted stem-like cell proliferation to a varying extent (up to 2-fold), and it seemed to speed up source cell dedifferentiation, as well as sequential differentiation in retina, lens, and limb, leading to formation of bigger and more developed regenerates than in 1g controls. It also promoted proliferation and hypertrophy of Müller glial cells, eliciting a response similar to reactive gliosis. A significant increase in stem-like cell proliferation was mostly beneficial for regeneration and only in rare cases caused moderate tissue growth abnormalities. It is important that microgravity yielded a lasting effect even if applied before operations. We hypothesize on the potential mechanisms of gravity-dependent changes in stem-like cell behavior, including fibroblast growth factor 2 signaling pathway and heat shock proteins, which were affected in our experimental settings. Taken together, our data indicate that microgravity does not disturb the natural regenerative potential of newt stem-like cells, and, depending on the system, even stimulates their dedifferentiation, proliferation, and differentiation. We discuss these data along with publications on mammalian stem cell behavior in vitro and invertebrate regeneration in vivo in microgravity. In vivo data are very scarce and require further research using contemporary methods of cell behavior analysis to elucidate mechanisms of stem cell response to altered gravity. They are relevant for both practical applications, such as managing human reparative responses in spaceflight, and fundamental understanding of stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora N Grigoryan
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena A Radugina
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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24
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Grigoryan EN. Endogenous Cell Sources for Eye Retina Regeneration in Vertebrate Animals and Humans. Russ J Dev Biol 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s106236041901003x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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25
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Hanovice NJ, Leach LL, Slater K, Gabriel AE, Romanovicz D, Shao E, Collery R, Burton EA, Lathrop KL, Link BA, Gross JM. Regeneration of the zebrafish retinal pigment epithelium after widespread genetic ablation. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1007939. [PMID: 30695061 PMCID: PMC6368336 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a specialized monolayer of pigmented cells within the eye that is critical for maintaining visual system function. Diseases affecting the RPE have dire consequences for vision, and the most prevalent of these is atrophic (dry) age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is thought to result from RPE dysfunction and degeneration. An intriguing possibility for treating RPE degenerative diseases like atrophic AMD is the stimulation of endogenous RPE regeneration; however, very little is known about the mechanisms driving successful RPE regeneration in vivo. Here, we developed a zebrafish transgenic model (rpe65a:nfsB-eGFP) that enabled ablation of large swathes of mature RPE. RPE ablation resulted in rapid RPE degeneration, as well as degeneration of Bruch’s membrane and underlying photoreceptors. Using this model, we demonstrate for the first time that zebrafish are capable of regenerating a functional RPE monolayer after RPE ablation. Regenerated RPE cells first appear at the periphery of the RPE, and regeneration proceeds in a peripheral-to-central fashion. RPE ablation elicits a robust proliferative response in the remaining RPE. Subsequently, proliferative cells move into the injury site and differentiate into RPE. BrdU incorporation assays demonstrate that the regenerated RPE is likely derived from remaining peripheral RPE cells. Pharmacological disruption using IWR-1, a Wnt signaling antagonist, significantly reduces cell proliferation in the RPE and impairs overall RPE recovery. These data demonstrate that the zebrafish RPE possesses a robust capacity for regeneration and highlight a potential mechanism through which endogenous RPE regenerate in vivo. Diseases resulting in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and no therapy exists that can replace RPE or restore lost vision. One intriguing possibility is the development of therapies focused on stimulating endogenous RPE regeneration. For this to be possible, we must first gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying RPE regeneration. Here, we develop a transgenic zebrafish system through which we ablate large swathes of mature RPE and demonstrate that zebrafish regenerate RPE after widespread injury. Injury-adjacent RPE proliferate and regenerate RPE, suggesting that they are the source of regenerated tissue. Finally, we demonstrate that Wnt signaling may be involved in RPE regeneration. These findings establish a versatile in vivo model through which the molecular and cellular underpinnings of RPE regeneration can be further characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J. Hanovice
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Lyndsay L. Leach
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kayleigh Slater
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ana E. Gabriel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Dwight Romanovicz
- Center for Biomedical Research Support, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Enhua Shao
- Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Tsinghua University Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Ross Collery
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Edward A. Burton
- Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Pittsburgh VA Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kira L. Lathrop
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Brian A. Link
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey M. Gross
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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26
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Grigoryan EN. Molecular Factors of the Maintenance and Activation of the Juvenile Phenotype of Cellular Sources for Eye Tissue Regeneration. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2018; 83:1318-1331. [DOI: 10.1134/s0006297918110032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Chakravarthy H, Devanathan V. Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Diabetic Retinal Neurodegeneration: Potential Research Avenues and Therapeutic Targets. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 66:445-461. [PMID: 30293228 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a devastating complication of diabetes with a prevalence rate of 35%, and no effective treatment options. Since the most visible clinical features of DR are microvascular irregularities, therapeutic interventions often attempt to reduce microvascular injury, but only after permanent retinal damage has ensued. However, recent data suggests that diabetes initially affects retinal neurons, leading to neurodegeneration as an early occurrence in DR, before onset of the more noticeable vascular abnormalities. In this review, we delineate the sequence of initiating events leading to retinal degeneration in DR, considering neuronal dysfunction as a primary event. Key molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers associated with retinal neuronal degeneration in diabetes are discussed. In addition to glial reactivity and inflammation in the diabetic retina, the contribution of neurotrophic factors, cell adhesion molecules, apoptosis markers, and G protein signaling to neurodegenerative pathways warrants further investigation. These studies could complement recent developments in innovative treatment strategies for diabetic retinopathy, such as targeting retinal neuroprotection, promoting neuronal regeneration, and attempts to re-program other retinal cell types into functional neurons. Indeed, several ongoing clinical trials are currently attempting treatment of retinal neurodegeneration by means of such novel therapeutic avenues. The aim of this article is to highlight the crucial role of neurodegeneration in early retinopathy progression, and to review the molecular basis of neuronal dysfunction as a first step toward developing early therapeutic interventions that can prevent permanent retinal damage in diabetes. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02471651, NCT01492400.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshini Chakravarthy
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Transit campus: C/o. Sree Rama Engineering College Campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati, 517507, India
| | - Vasudharani Devanathan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Transit campus: C/o. Sree Rama Engineering College Campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati, 517507, India.
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28
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Echeverri-Ruiz N, Haynes T, Landers J, Woods J, Gemma MJ, Hughes M, Del Rio-Tsonis K. A biochemical basis for induction of retina regeneration by antioxidants. Dev Biol 2017; 433:394-403. [PMID: 29291983 PMCID: PMC5753421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The use of antioxidants in tissue regeneration has been studied, but their mechanism of action is not well understood. Here, we analyze the role of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in retina regeneration. Embryonic chicks are able to regenerate their retina after its complete removal from retinal stem/progenitor cells present in the ciliary margin (CM) of the eye only if a source of exogenous factors, such as FGF2, is present. This study shows that NAC modifies the redox status of the CM, initiates self-renewal of the stem/progenitor cells, and induces regeneration in the absence of FGF2. NAC works as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals either independently or through the synthesis of glutathione (GSH), and/or by reducing oxidized proteins through a thiol disulfide exchange activity. We dissected the mechanism used by NAC to induce regeneration through the use of inhibitors of GSH synthesis and the use of other antioxidants with different biochemical structures and modes of action, and found that NAC induces regeneration through its thiol disulfide exchange activity. Thus, our results provide, for the first time, a biochemical basis for induction of retina regeneration. Furthermore, NAC induction was independent of FGF receptor signaling, but dependent on the MAPK (pErk1/2) pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Echeverri-Ruiz
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Tracy Haynes
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Joseph Landers
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Justin Woods
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Michael J Gemma
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Michael Hughes
- Department of Statistics and Statistical Consulting Center, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, OH 45056, USA.
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29
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Shafei EV, Kurinov AM, Kuznetsova AV, Aleksandrova MA. Reprogramming of Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells under the Effect of bFGF In Vitro. Bull Exp Biol Med 2017; 163:574-582. [PMID: 28853082 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-017-3852-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
We studied the effect of bFGF on human retinal pigment epithelial cells in vitro In ARPE-19 cells, enhanced expression of KLF4 mRNA and reduced expression of PAX6, MITF, and OTX2 mRNA specific for retinal pigment epithelium were observed after bFGF application. The expression of KLF4 mRNA peaked in 72 h after bFGF application and then sharply decreased, which was accompanied by a 3-fold increase in TUBB3 mRNA expression (neuronal marker). Immunocytochemical analysis showed that in the presence of bFGF, some cells retained epithelial properties and showed positive staining for connexin-43, while others had long axon-like processes and demonstrated positive staining for βIII-tubulin, which attests to their neuronal transdifferentiation. Despite the prevalence of the epithelial properties, ARPE-19 cells under the influence of bFGF can show proneuronal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Shafei
- N. K. Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A M Kurinov
- N. K. Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Kuznetsova
- N. K. Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - M A Aleksandrova
- N. K. Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
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30
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Novel Regenerative Therapies Based on Regionally Induced Multipotent Stem Cells in Post-Stroke Brains: Their Origin, Characterization, and Perspective. Transl Stroke Res 2017; 8:515-528. [PMID: 28744717 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-017-0556-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Brain injuries such as ischemic stroke cause severe neural loss. Until recently, it was believed that post-ischemic areas mainly contain necrotic tissue and inflammatory cells. However, using a mouse model of cerebral infarction, we demonstrated that stem cells develop within ischemic areas. Ischemia-induced stem cells can function as neural progenitors; thus, we initially named them injury/ischemia-induced neural stem/progenitor cells (iNSPCs). However, because they differentiate into more than neural lineages, we now refer to them as ischemia-induced multipotent stem cells (iSCs). Very recently, we showed that putative iNSPCs/iSCs are present within post-stroke areas in human brains. Because iNSPCs/iSCs isolated from mouse and human ischemic tissues can differentiate into neuronal lineages in vitro, it is possible that a clearer understanding of iNSPC/iSC profiles and the molecules that regulate iNSPC/iSC fate (e.g., proliferation, differentiation, and survival) would make it possible to perform neural regeneration/repair in patients following stroke. In this article, we introduce the origin and traits of iNSPCs/iSCs based on our reports and recent viewpoints. We also discuss their possible contribution to neurogenesis through endogenous and exogenous iNSPC/iSC therapies following ischemic stroke.
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31
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Steinfeld J, Steinfeld I, Bausch A, Coronato N, Hampel ML, Depner H, Layer PG, Vogel-Höpker A. BMP-induced reprogramming of the neural retina into retinal pigment epithelium requires Wnt signalling. Biol Open 2017; 6:979-992. [PMID: 28546339 PMCID: PMC5550904 DOI: 10.1242/bio.018739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors of the neural retina (NR) comprise a functional unit required for vision. During vertebrate eye development, a conversion of the RPE into NR can be induced by growth factors in vivo at optic cup stages, but the reverse process, the conversion of NR tissue into RPE, has not been reported. Here, we show that bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling can reprogram the NR into RPE at optic cup stages in chick. Shortly after BMP application, expression of Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (Mitf) is induced in the NR and selective cell death on the basal side of the NR induces an RPE-like morphology. The newly induced RPE differentiates and expresses Melanosomalmatrix protein 115 (Mmp115) and RPE65. BMP-induced Wnt2b expression is observed in regions of the NR that become pigmented. Loss of function studies show that conversion of the NR into RPE requires both BMP and Wnt signalling. Simultaneous to the appearance of ectopic RPE tissue, BMP application reprogrammed the proximal RPE into multi-layered retinal tissue. The newly induced NR expresses visual segment homeobox-containing gene (Vsx2), and the ganglion and photoreceptor cell markers Brn3α and Visinin are detected. Our results show that high BMP concentrations are required to induce the conversion of NR into RPE, while low BMP concentrations can still induce transdifferentiation of the RPE into NR. This knowledge may contribute to the development of efficient standardized protocols for RPE and NR generation for cell replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg Steinfeld
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Ichie Steinfeld
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Alexander Bausch
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Nicola Coronato
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Meggi-Lee Hampel
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Heike Depner
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Paul G Layer
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
| | - Astrid Vogel-Höpker
- Fachbereich Biologie, Abteilung Stammzell- und Entwicklungsbiologie, Schnittspahnstraße 13, Darmstadt 64287, Germany
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Ezati R, Etemadzadeh A, Soheili ZS, Samiei S, Ranaei Pirmardan E, Davari M, Najafabadi HS. The influence of rAAV2-mediated SOX2 delivery into neonatal and adult human RPE cells; a comparative study. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:1222-1235. [PMID: 28480968 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell replacement is a promising therapy for degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Since the human retina lacks regeneration capacity, much attention has been directed toward persuading for cells that can differentiate into retinal neurons. In this report, we have investigated reprogramming of the human RPE cells and concerned the effect of donor age on the cellular fate as a critical determinant in reprogramming competence. We evaluated the effect of SOX2 over-expression in human neonatal and adult RPE cells in cultures. The coding region of human SOX2 gene was cloned into adeno-associated virus (AAV2) and primary culture of human neonatal/adult RPE cells were infected by recombinant virus. De-differentiation of RPE to neural/retinal progenitor cells was investigated by quantitative real-time PCR and ICC for neural/retinal progenitor cells' markers. Gene expression analysis showed 80-fold and 12-fold over-expression for SOX2 gene in infected neonatal and adult hRPE cells, respectively. The fold of increase for Nestin in neonatal and adult hRPE cells was 3.8-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively. PAX6 expression was increased threefold and 2.5-fold in neonatal/adult treated cultures. Howbeit, we could not detect rhodopsin, and CHX10 expression in neonatal hRPE cultures and expression of rhodopsin in adult hRPE cells. Results showed SOX2 induced human neonatal/adult RPE cells to de-differentiate toward retinal progenitor cells. However, the increased number of PAX6, CHX10, Thy1, and rhodopsin positive cells in adult hRPE treated cultures clearly indicated the considerable generation of neuro-retinal terminally differentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razie Ezati
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Etemadzadeh
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra-Soheila Soheili
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Samiei
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Malihe Davari
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoda Shams Najafabadi
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
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Vetter ML, Hitchcock PF. Report on the National Eye Institute Audacious Goals Initiative: Replacement of Retinal Ganglion Cells from Endogenous Cell Sources. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2017; 6:5. [PMID: 28316878 PMCID: PMC5354473 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.6.2.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This report emerges from a workshop convened by the National Eye Institute (NEI) as part of the "Audacious Goals Initiative" (AGI). The workshop addressed the replacement of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from exogenous and endogenous sources, and sought to identify the gaps in our knowledge and barriers to progress in devising cellular replacement therapies for diseases where RGCs die. Here, we briefly review relevant literature regarding common diseases associated with RGC death, the genesis of RGCs in vivo, strategies for generating transplantable RGCs in vitro, and potential endogenous cellular sources to regenerate these cells. These topics provided the clinical and scientific context for the discussion among the workshop participants and are relevant to efforts that may lead to therapeutic approaches for replacing RGCs. This report also summarizes the content of the workshop discussion, which focused on: (1) cell sources for RGC replacement and regeneration, (2) optimizing integration, survival, and synaptogenesis of new RGCs, and (3) approaches for assessing the outcomes of RGC replacement therapies. We conclude this report with a summary of recommendations, based on the workshop discussions, which may guide vision scientists seeking to develop therapies for replacing RGCs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L Vetter
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Peter F Hitchcock
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Cocktail of chemical compounds robustly promoting cell reprogramming protects liver against acute injury. Protein Cell 2017; 8:273-283. [PMID: 28190217 PMCID: PMC5359186 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-017-0373-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue damage induces cells into reprogramming-like cellular state, which contributes to tissue regeneration. However, whether factors promoting the cell reprogramming favor tissue regeneration remains elusive. Here we identified combination of small chemical compounds including drug cocktails robustly promoting in vitro cell reprogramming. We then administrated the drug cocktails to mice with acute liver injuries induced by partial hepatectomy or toxic treatment. Our results demonstrated that the drug cocktails which promoted cell reprogramming in vitro improved liver regeneration and hepatic function in vivo after acute injuries. The underlying mechanism could be that expression of pluripotent genes activated after injury is further upregulated by drug cocktails. Thus our study offers proof-of-concept evidence that cocktail of clinical compounds improving cell reprogramming favors tissue recovery after acute damages, which is an attractive strategy for regenerative purpose.
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Evidence of BrdU-positive retinal neurons after application of an Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. Neuroscience 2017; 346:437-446. [PMID: 28147247 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Irreversible vision loss due to disease or age is responsible for a reduced quality of life. The experiments in this study test the hypothesis that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist, PNU-282987, leads to the generation of retinal neurons in an adult mammalian retina in the absence of retinal injury or exogenous growth factors. Using antibodies against BrdU, retinal ganglion cells, progenitor cells and Müller glia, the results of this study demonstrate that multiple types of retinal cells and neurons are generated after eye drop application of PNU-282987 in adult Long Evans rats in a dose-dependent manner. The results of this study provide evidence that progenitor cells, derived from Müller glia after treatment with PNU-282987, differentiate and migrate to the photoreceptor and retinal ganglion cell layers. If retinas were treated with the alpha7 nAChR antagonist, methyllycaconitine, before agonist treatment, BrdU-positive cells were significantly reduced. As adult mammalian neurons do not typically regenerate or proliferate, these results have implications for reversing vision loss due to neurodegenerative disease or the aging process to improve the quality of life for millions of patients.
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Inami W, Islam MR, Nakamura K, Yoshikawa T, Yasumuro H, Casco-Robles MM, Toyama F, Maruo F, Chiba C. Expression of Two Classes of Pax6 Transcripts in Reprogramming Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells of the Adult Newt. Zoolog Sci 2016; 33:21-30. [PMID: 26853865 DOI: 10.2108/zs150111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The adult newt has the remarkable ability to regenerate a functional retina from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, even when the neural retina (NR) is completely lost from the eye. In this system, RPE cells are reprogrammed into a unique state of multipotent cells, named RPESCs, in an early phase of retinal regeneration. However, the signals that trigger reprogramming remain unknown. Here, to approach this issue we focused on Pax6, a transcription factor known to be expressed in RPESCs. We first identified four classes (v1, v2, v3 and v4) of Pax6 variants in the eye of adult newt, Cynops pyrrhogaster. These variants were expressed in most tissues of the intact eye in different combinations but not in the RPE, choroid or sclera. On the basis of this information, we investigated the expression of Pax6 in RPE cells after the NR was removed from the eye by surgery (retinectomy), and found that two classes (v1 and v2) of Pax6 variants were newly expressed in RPE cells 10 days after retinectomy, both in vivo and in vitro (RLEC system). In the RLEC system, we found that Pax6 expression is mediated through a pathway separate from the MEK-ERK pathway, which is required for cell cycle re-entry of RPE cells. These results predict the existence of a pathway that may be of fundamental importance to a better understanding of the reprogramming of RPE cells in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Inami
- 1 Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Md Rafiqul Islam
- 1 Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Kenta Nakamura
- 2 Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Taro Yoshikawa
- 1 Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Yasumuro
- 1 Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Martin Miguel Casco-Robles
- 2 Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Fubito Toyama
- 3 Graduate School of Engineering, Utsunomiya University, Yoto 7-1-2, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-8585, Japan
| | - Fumiaki Maruo
- 2 Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
| | - Chikafumi Chiba
- 2 Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tennoudai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8572, Japan
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mirPRo-a novel standalone program for differential expression and variation analysis of miRNAs. Sci Rep 2015; 5:14617. [PMID: 26434581 PMCID: PMC4592965 DOI: 10.1038/srep14617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Being involved in many important biological processes, miRNAs can regulate gene expression by targeting mRNAs to facilitate their degradation or translational inhibition. Many miRNA sequencing studies reveal that miRNA variations such as isomiRs and “arm switching” are biologically relevant. However, existing standalone tools usually do not provide comprehensive, detailed information on miRNA variations. To deepen our understanding of miRNA variability, we developed a new standalone tool called “mirPRo” to quantify known miRNAs and predict novel miRNAs. Compared with the most widely used standalone program, miRDeep2, mirPRo offers several new functions including read cataloging based on genome annotation, optional seed region check, miRNA family expression quantification, isomiR identification and categorization, and “arm switching” detection. Our comparative data analyses using three datasets from mouse, human and chicken demonstrate that mirPRo is more accurate than miRDeep2 by avoiding over-counting of sequence reads and by implementing different approaches in adapter trimming, mapping and quantification. mirPRo is an open-source standalone program (https://sourceforge.net/projects/mirpro/).
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38
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The pros and cons of vertebrate animal models for functional and therapeutic research on inherited retinal dystrophies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 48:137-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 04/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Luz-Madrigal A, Grajales-Esquivel E, Del Rio-Tsonis K. Electroporation of Embryonic Chick Eyes. Bio Protoc 2015; 5:e1498. [PMID: 27054146 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.1498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The chick embryo has prevailed as one of the major models to study developmental biology, cell biology and regeneration. From all the anatomical features of the chick embryo, the eye is one of the most studied. In the chick embryo, the eye develops between 26 and 33 h after incubation (Stages 8-9, Hamburger and Hamilton, 1951). It originates from the posterior region of the forebrain, called the diencephalon. However, the vertebrate eye includes tissues from different origins including surface ectoderm (lens and cornea), anterior neural plate (retina, iris, ciliary body and retinal pigmented epithelium) and neural crest/head mesoderm (stroma of the iris and of the ciliary body as well as choroid, sclera and part of the cornea). After gastrulation, a single eye field originates from the anterior neural plate and is characterized by the expression of eye field transcriptional factors (EFTFs) that orchestrate the program for eye development. Later in development, the eye field separates in two and the optic vesicles form. After several inductive interactions with the lens placode, the optic cup forms. At Stages 14-15, the outer layer of the optic cup becomes the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) while the inner layer forms the neuroepithelium that eventually differentiates into the retina. One main advantage of the chick embryo, is the possibility to perform experiments to over-express or to down-regulate gene expression in a place and time specific manner to explore gene function and regulation. The aim of this protocol is to describe the electroporation techniques at Stages 8-12 (anterior neural fold and optic vesicle stages) and Stages 19-26 (eye cup, RPE and neuroepithelium). We provide a full description of the equipment, materials and electrode set up as well as a detailed description of the highly reproducible protocol including some representative results. This protocol has been adapted from our previous publications Luz-Madrigal et al. (2014) and Zhu et al. (2014).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Luz-Madrigal
- Department of Biology, Miami University and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, USA; Department of Biology, University of Dayton and Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering at the University of Dayton (TREND), Dayton, USA
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology, Miami University and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, USA
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology, Miami University and Center for Visual Sciences at Miami University (CVSMU), Oxford, USA
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Ohana R, Weiman-Kelman B, Raviv S, Tamm ER, Pasmanik-Chor M, Rinon A, Netanely D, Shamir R, Solomon AS, Ashery-Padan R. MicroRNAs are essential for differentiation of the retinal pigmented epithelium and maturation of adjacent photoreceptors. Development 2015; 142:2487-98. [PMID: 26062936 DOI: 10.1242/dev.121533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) results in degeneration of photoreceptors and vision loss and is correlated with common blinding disorders in humans. Although many protein-coding genes are known to be expressed in RPE and are important for its development and maintenance, virtually nothing is known about the in vivo roles of non-coding transcripts. The expression patterns of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been analyzed in a variety of ocular tissues, and a few were implicated to play role in RPE based on studies in cell lines. Here, through RPE-specific conditional mutagenesis of Dicer1 or Dgcr8 in mice, the importance of miRNAs for RPE differentiation was uncovered. miRNAs were found to be dispensable for maintaining RPE fate and survival, and yet they are essential for the acquisition of important RPE properties such as the expression of genes involved in the visual cycle pathway, pigmentation and cell adhesion. Importantly, miRNAs of the RPE are required for maturation of adjacent photoreceptors, specifically for the morphogenesis of the outer segments. The alterations in the miRNA and mRNA profiles in the Dicer1-deficient RPE point to a key role of miR-204 in regulation of the RPE differentiation program in vivo and uncover the importance of additional novel RPE miRNAs. This study reveals the combined regulatory activity of miRNAs that is required for RPE differentiation and for the development of the adjacent neuroretina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reut Ohana
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Benjamin Weiman-Kelman
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Shaul Raviv
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ernst R Tamm
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Metsada Pasmanik-Chor
- Bioinformatics Unit, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ariel Rinon
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dvir Netanely
- Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ron Shamir
- Blavatnik School of Computer Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Arie S Solomon
- The Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel
| | - Ruth Ashery-Padan
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Concise Review: Are Stimulated Somatic Cells Truly Reprogrammed into an ES/iPS-Like Pluripotent State? Better Understanding by Ischemia-Induced Multipotent Stem Cells in a Mouse Model of Cerebral Infarction. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:630693. [PMID: 25945100 PMCID: PMC4402558 DOI: 10.1155/2015/630693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Following the discovery of pluripotent stem (PS) cells such as embryonic stem (ES) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, there has been a great hope that injured tissues can be repaired by transplantation of ES/iPS-derived various specific types of cells such as neural stem cells (NSCs). Although PS cells can be induced by ectopic expression of Yamanaka's factors, it is known that several stimuli such as ischemia/hypoxia can increase the stemness of somatic cells via reprogramming. This suggests that endogenous somatic cells acquire stemness during natural regenerative processes following injury. In this study, we describe whether somatic cells are converted into pluripotent stem cells by pathological stimuli without ectopic expression of reprogramming factors based on the findings of ischemia-induced multipotent stem cells in a mouse model of cerebral infarction.
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Grigoryan EN. Competence factors of retinal pigment epithelium cells for reprogramming in the neuronal direction during retinal regeneration in newts. BIOL BULL+ 2015. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359015010045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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43
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Mashanov VS, Zueva OR, García-Arrarás JE. Expression of pluripotency factors in echinoderm regeneration. Cell Tissue Res 2014; 359:521-536. [PMID: 25468557 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-014-2040-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cell dedifferentiation is an integral component of post-traumatic regeneration in echinoderms. As dedifferentiated cells become multipotent, we asked if this spontaneous broadening of developmental potential is associated with the action of the same pluripotency factors (known as Yamanaka factors) that were used to induce pluripotency in specialized mammalian cells. In this study, we investigate the expression of orthologs of the four Yamanaka factors in regeneration of two different organs, the radial nerve cord and the digestive tube, in the sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima. All four pluripotency factors are expressed in uninjured animals, although their expression domains do not always overlap. In regeneration, the expression levels of the four genes were not regulated in a coordinated way, but instead showed different dynamics for individual genes and also were different between the radial nerve and the gut. SoxB1, the ortholog of the mammalian Sox2, was drastically downregulated in the regenerating intestine, suggesting that this factor is not required for dedifferentiation/regeneration in this organ. On the other hand, during the early post-injury stage, Myc, the sea cucumber ortholog of c-Myc, was significantly upregulated in both the intestine and the radial nerve cord and is therefore hypothesized to play a central role in dedifferentiation/regeneration of various tissue types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir S Mashanov
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 70377, San Juan, PR, 00936-8377, USA.
| | - Olga R Zueva
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 70377, San Juan, PR, 00936-8377, USA
| | - José E García-Arrarás
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 70377, San Juan, PR, 00936-8377, USA
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44
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The newt reprograms mature RPE cells into a unique multipotent state for retinal regeneration. Sci Rep 2014; 4:6043. [PMID: 25116407 PMCID: PMC4131214 DOI: 10.1038/srep06043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The reprogramming of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in the adult newt immediately after retinal injury is an area of active research for the study of retinal disorders and regeneration. We demonstrate here that unlike embryonic/larval retinal regeneration, adult newt RPE cells are not directly reprogrammed into retinal stem/progenitor cells; instead, they are programmed into a unique state of multipotency that is similar to the early optic vesicle (embryo) but preserves certain adult characteristics. These cells then differentiate into two populations from which the prospective-neural retina and -RPE layers are formed with the correct polarity. Furthermore, our findings provide insight into the similarity between these unique multipotent cells in newts and those implicated in retinal disorders, such as proliferative vitreoretinopathy, in humans. These findings provide a foundation for biomedical approaches that aim to induce retinal self-regeneration for the treatment of RPE-mediated retinal disorders.
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