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Liu Q, Liu J, Guo M, Sung TC, Wang T, Yu T, Tian Z, Fan G, Wu W, Higuchi A. Comparison of retinal degeneration treatment with four types of different mesenchymal stem cells, human induced pluripotent stem cells and RPE cells in a rat retinal degeneration model. J Transl Med 2023; 21:910. [PMID: 38098048 PMCID: PMC10720187 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04785-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal degeneration (RD) is a group of disorders on irreversible vision loss. Multiple types of stem cells were used in clinical trials for RD treatment. However, it remains unknown what kinds of stem cells are most effective for the treatment. Therefore, we investigated the subretinal transplantation of several types of stem cells, human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs), amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs), bone marrow stem cells (hBMSCs), dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs), induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC), and hiPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells for protection effects, paracrine effects and treatment efficiency in an RD disease model rats. METHODS The generation and characterization of these stem cells and hiPSC-derived RPE cells were performed before transplantation. The stem cells or hiPSC-derived RPE cell suspension labelled with CellTracker Green to detect transplanted cells were delivered into the subretinal space of 3-week-old RCS rats. The control group received subretinal PBS injection or non-injection. A series of detections including fundus photography, optomotor response (OMR) evaluations, light-dark box testing, electroretinography (ERG), and hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining of retinal sections were conducted after subretinal injection of the cells. RESULTS Each stem cell, hiPSC-derived RPE cell or PBS (blank experiment) was successfully transplanted into at least six RCS rats subretinally. Compared with the control rats, RCS rats subjected to subretinal transplantation of any stem cells except hiPSCs showed higher ERG waves (p < 0.05) and quantitative OMR (qOMR) index values (hADSCs: 1.166, hAFSCs: 1.249, hBMSCs: 1.098, hDPSCs: 1.238, hiPSCs: 1.208, hiPSC-RPE cells: 1.294, non-injection: 1.03, PBS: 1.06), which indicated better visual function, at 4 weeks post-injection. However, only rats that received hiPSC-derived RPE cells maintained their visual function at 8 weeks post-injection (p < 0.05). The outer nuclear layer thickness observed in histological sections after HE staining showed the same pattern as the ERG and qOMR results. CONCLUSIONS Compared to hiPSC-derived RPE cells, adult and fetal stem cells yielded improvements in visual function for up to 4 weeks post-injection; this outcome was mainly based on the paracrine effects of several types of growth factors secreted by the stem cells. Patients with RD will benefit from the stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Minmei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zeyu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guoping Fan
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Wencan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 270, Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda RD., Jhongli, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan.
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Cao M, Xu T, Song Y, Wang H, Wei S, Yin D. 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether causes depigmentation in zebrafish larvae via a light-mediated pathway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 897:165382. [PMID: 37422226 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are organic pollutants widely detected in various environmental media due to their high persistence and bioaccumulation. PBDE-induced visual impairment and neurotoxicity were previously demonstrated using zebrafish (Danio rerio) models, and recent research reported the phenotypic depigmentation effect of PBDEs at high concentrations on zebrafish, but whether those effects are still present at environment-relevant levels is still unclear. Herein, we performed both phenotypic examination and mechanism investigation in zebrafish embryos (48 hpf) and larvae (5 dpf) about their pigmentation status when exposing to PBDE congener BDE-47 (2,2',4,4'-tetrabrominated diphenyl ether) at levels from 0.25 to 25 μg/L. Results showed that low-level BDE-47 can restrain the relative melanin abundance of zebrafish larvae to 70.47% (p < 0.05) and 61.54% (p < 0.01) respectively under 2.5 and 25 μg/L BDE-47 compared with control, and the thickness of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) remarkably reduced from 571.4 nm to 350.3 nm (p < 0.001) under 25 μg/L BDE-47 exposure. We also observed disrupted expressions of melanin synthesis genes and disorganized mitfa differentiation patterns based on Tg(mifta:EGFP), as well as visual impairment resulting from thinner RPE. Considering both processes of visual development and melanin synthesis are highly sensitive to ambient light conditions, we prolonged the light regime of maintaining zebrafish larvae from 14 hours light versus 10 hours dark (14L:10D) to 18 hours light versus 6 hours dark (18L:6D). Lengthening photoperiod successfully rescued the fluorescent level of mitfa in zebrafish epidermis and most gene expressions associated with melanin synthesis under 25 μg/L BDE-47 exposure to the normal level. In conclusion, our work reported the effects of low-level PBDEs on melanin production using zebrafish embryos and larvae, and identified the potential role of a light-mediated pathway in the neurotoxic mechanism of PBDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Cao
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yiqun Song
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Sheng Wei
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Daqiang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Lapshin EV, Gershovich YG, Karabelsky AV. The Potential and Application of iPSCs in Gene and Cell Therapy for Retinopathies and Optic Neuropathies. Acta Naturae 2023; 15:56-64. [PMID: 38234607 PMCID: PMC10790360 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.25454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on in vitro modeling of diseases and the development of therapeutic strategies using iPSCs for the two most common types of optical pathologies: hereditary neuropathies and retinopathies. Degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and the subsequent optic nerve atrophy leads to various types of neuropathies. Damage to photoreceptor cells or retinal pigment epithelium cells causes various retinopathies. Human iPSCs can be used as a model for studying the pathological foundations of diseases and for developing therapies to restore visual function. In recent years, significant progress has also been made in creating ganglionic and retinal organoids from iPSCs. Different research groups have published data pertaining to the potential of using iPSCs for the modeling of optic neuropathies such as glaucoma, Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, etc., including in the development of therapeutic approaches using gene editing tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. V. Lapshin
- Gene Therapy Department, Science Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Krasnodar Region, Sirius, 354340 Russian Federation
| | - Y. G. Gershovich
- Gene Therapy Department, Science Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Krasnodar Region, Sirius, 354340 Russian Federation
| | - A. V. Karabelsky
- Gene Therapy Department, Science Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Krasnodar Region, Sirius, 354340 Russian Federation
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Esteves F, Brito D, Rajado AT, Silva N, Apolónio J, Roberto VP, Araújo I, Nóbrega C, Castelo-Branco P, Bragança J. Reprogramming iPSCs to study age-related diseases: Models, therapeutics, and clinical trials. Mech Ageing Dev 2023; 214:111854. [PMID: 37579530 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111854] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
The unprecedented rise in life expectancy observed in the last decades is leading to a global increase in the ageing population, and age-associated diseases became an increasing societal, economic, and medical burden. This has boosted major efforts in the scientific and medical research communities to develop and improve therapies to delay ageing and age-associated functional decline and diseases, and to expand health span. The establishment of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by reprogramming human somatic cells has revolutionised the modelling and understanding of human diseases. iPSCs have a major advantage relative to other human pluripotent stem cells as their obtention does not require the destruction of embryos like embryonic stem cells do, and do not have a limited proliferation or differentiation potential as adult stem cells. Besides, iPSCs can be generated from somatic cells from healthy individuals or patients, which makes iPSC technology a promising approach to model and decipher the mechanisms underlying the ageing process and age-associated diseases, study drug effects, and develop new therapeutic approaches. This review discusses the advances made in the last decade using iPSC technology to study the most common age-associated diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, brain stroke, cancer, diabetes, and osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Esteves
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - David Brito
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Ana Teresa Rajado
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Nádia Silva
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Joana Apolónio
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Vânia Palma Roberto
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; ABC Collaborative Laboratory, Association for Integrated Aging and Rejuvenation Solutions (ABC CoLAB), 8100-735 Loulé, Portugal
| | - Inês Araújo
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; ABC Collaborative Laboratory, Association for Integrated Aging and Rejuvenation Solutions (ABC CoLAB), 8100-735 Loulé, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; ABC Collaborative Laboratory, Association for Integrated Aging and Rejuvenation Solutions (ABC CoLAB), 8100-735 Loulé, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Castelo-Branco
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; ABC Collaborative Laboratory, Association for Integrated Aging and Rejuvenation Solutions (ABC CoLAB), 8100-735 Loulé, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Bragança
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; ABC Collaborative Laboratory, Association for Integrated Aging and Rejuvenation Solutions (ABC CoLAB), 8100-735 Loulé, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (FMCB), University of Algarve, Gambelas Campus, Bld. 2, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal; Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal.
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Voisin A, Pénaguin A, Gaillard A, Leveziel N. Stem cell therapy in retinal diseases. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:1478-1485. [PMID: 36571345 PMCID: PMC10075102 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.361537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alteration of the outer retina leads to various diseases such as age-related macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa characterized by decreased visual acuity and ultimately blindness. Despite intensive research in the field of retinal disorders, there is currently no curative treatment. Several therapeutic approaches such as cell-based replacement and gene therapies are currently in development. In the context of cell-based therapies, different cell sources such as embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, or multipotent stem cells can be used for transplantation. In the vast majority of human clinical trials, retinal pigment epithelial cells and photoreceptors are the cell types considered for replacement cell therapies. In this review, we summarize the progress made in stem cell therapies ranging from the pre-clinical studies to clinical trials for retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Voisin
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques, Université de Poitiers, INSERM 1084; Department of Ophthalmology, CHU Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Amaury Pénaguin
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques, Université de Poitiers, INSERM 1084, Poitiers; Laboratoires Thea, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Afsaneh Gaillard
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques, Université de Poitiers, INSERM 1084, Poitiers, France
| | - Nicolas Leveziel
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Expérimentales et Cliniques, Université de Poitiers, INSERM 1084; Department of Ophthalmology, CHU Poitiers, Poitiers, France
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Liu Q, Liu J, Higuchi A. hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of macular degeneration. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 199:227-269. [PMID: 37678973 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Macular degeneration (MD) is a group of diseases characterized by irreversible and progressive vision loss. Patients with MD suffer from severely impaired central vision, especially elderly people. Currently, only one type of MD, wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), can be treated with anti-vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) drugs. Other types of MD remain difficult to treat. With the advent of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) and their differentiation into retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), it is promising to treat patients with MD by transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE into the subretinal space. In this review, the current progress in hPSC-derived RPE transplantation for the treatment of patients with MD is described from bench to bedside, including hPSC differentiation into RPE and the characterization and usage of hPSC-derived RPE for transplantation into patients with MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Wu KY, Kulbay M, Toameh D, Xu AQ, Kalevar A, Tran SD. Retinitis Pigmentosa: Novel Therapeutic Targets and Drug Development. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:685. [PMID: 36840007 PMCID: PMC9963330 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a heterogeneous group of hereditary diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal photoreceptors leading to progressive visual decline. It is the most common type of inherited retinal dystrophy and has a high burden on both patients and society. This condition causes gradual loss of vision, with its typical manifestations including nyctalopia, concentric visual field loss, and ultimately bilateral central vision loss. It is one of the leading causes of visual disability and blindness in people under 60 years old and affects over 1.5 million people worldwide. There is currently no curative treatment for people with RP, and only a small group of patients with confirmed RPE65 mutations are eligible to receive the only gene therapy on the market: voretigene neparvovec. The current therapeutic armamentarium is limited to retinoids, vitamin A supplements, protection from sunlight, visual aids, and medical and surgical interventions to treat ophthalmic comorbidities, which only aim to slow down the progression of the disease. Considering such a limited therapeutic landscape, there is an urgent need for developing new and individualized therapeutic modalities targeting retinal degeneration. Although the heterogeneity of gene mutations involved in RP makes its target treatment development difficult, recent fundamental studies showed promising progress in elucidation of the photoreceptor degeneration mechanism. The discovery of novel molecule therapeutics that can selectively target specific receptors or specific pathways will serve as a solid foundation for advanced drug development. This article is a review of recent progress in novel treatment of RP focusing on preclinical stage fundamental research on molecular targets, which will serve as a starting point for advanced drug development. We will review the alterations in the molecular pathways involved in the development of RP, mainly those regarding endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptotic pathways, maintenance of the redox balance, and genomic stability. We will then discuss the therapeutic approaches under development, such as gene and cell therapy, as well as the recent literature identifying novel potential drug targets for RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Merve Kulbay
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Dana Toameh
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - An Qi Xu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Ananda Kalevar
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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Paliwal H, Prajapati BG, Srichana T, Singh S, Patel RJ. Novel Approaches in the Drug Development and Delivery Systems for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020568. [PMID: 36836923 PMCID: PMC9960288 DOI: 10.3390/life13020568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of patients with ocular disorders has increased due to contributing factors such as aging populations, environmental changes, smoking, genetic abnormalities, etc. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the common ocular disorders which may advance to loss of vision in severe cases. The advanced form of AMD is classified into two types, dry (non-exudative) and wet (exudative) AMD. Although several therapeutic approaches are explored for the management of AMD, no approved therapy can substantially slow down the progression of dry AMD into the later stages. The focus of researchers in recent times has been engaged in developing targeted therapeutic products to halt the progression and maintain or improve vision in individuals diagnosed with AMD. The delivery of anti-VEGF agents using intravitreal therapy has found some success in managing AMD, and novel formulation approaches have been introduced in various studies to potentiate the efficacy. Some of the novel approaches, such as hydrogel, microspheres, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, implants, etc. have been discussed. Apart from this, subretinal, suprachoroidal, and port delivery systems have also been investigated for biologics and gene therapies. The unmet potential of approved therapeutic products has contributed to several patent applications in recent years. This review outlines the current treatment options, outcomes of recent research studies, and patent details around the novel drug delivery approach for the treatment of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Paliwal
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
| | - Bhupendra Gopalbhai Prajapati
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +91-9429225025
| | - Teerapol Srichana
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
| | - Sudarshan Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Ravish J. Patel
- Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy (RPCP), Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand 388421, Gujarat, India
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An improved protocol for generation and characterization of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium cells. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101803. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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10
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Ryu J. New Aspects on the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity: Currently Available Therapies and Emerging Novel Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158529. [PMID: 35955664 PMCID: PMC9369302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a rare proliferative ocular disorder in preterm infants. Because of the advancements in neonatal care, the incidence of ROP has increased gradually. Now, ROP is one of the leading causes of blindness in children. Preterm infants with immature retinal development are exposed to supplemental oxygen inside an incubator until their cardiopulmonary system is adequately developed. Once they are returned to room air, the relatively low oxygen level stimulates various angiogenesis factors initiating retinal neovascularization. If patients with ROP are not offered adequate and timely treatment, they can experience vision loss that may ultimately lead to permanent blindness. Although laser therapy and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents are widely used to treat ROP, they have limitations. Thus, it is important to identify novel therapeutics with minimal adverse effects for the treatment of ROP. To date, various pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies have been assessed as treatments for ROP. In this review, the major molecular factors involved in the pathogenesis of ROP, currently offered therapies, therapies under investigation, and emerging novel therapeutics of ROP are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhee Ryu
- Vessel-Organ Interaction Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea; ; Tel.: +82-539508583
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
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Battu R, Ratra D, Gopal L. Newer therapeutic options for inherited retinal diseases: Gene and cell replacement therapy. Indian J Ophthalmol 2022; 70:2316-2325. [PMID: 35791112 PMCID: PMC9426045 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_82_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are genotypically and phenotypically varied disorders that lead to progressive degeneration of the outer retina and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) eventually resulting in severe vision loss. Recent research and developments in gene therapy and cell therapy have shown therapeutic promise in these hitherto incurable diseases. In gene therapy, copies of a healthy gene are introduced into the host cells via a viral vector. Clinical trials for several genes are underway while treatment for RPE65 called voretigene neparvovec, is already approved and commercially available. Cell therapy involves the introduction of stem cells that can replace degenerated cells. These therapies are delivered to the target tissues, namely the photoreceptors (PR) and RPE via subretinal, intravitreal, or suprachoroidal delivery systems. Although there are several limitations to these therapies, they are expected to slow the disease progression and restore some visual functions. Further advances such as gene editing technologies are likely to result in more precise and personalized treatments. Currently, several IRDs such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis, choroideremia, achromatopsia, and Usher syndrome are being evaluated for possible gene therapy or cell therapy. It is important to encourage patients to undergo gene testing and maintain a nationwide registry of IRDs. This article provides an overview of the basics of these therapies and their current status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajani Battu
- Aster CMI Hospital; Centre for Eye Genetics and Research, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Dhanashree Ratra
- Department of Vitreoretinal Diseases, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lingam Gopal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore Eye Research, Singapore
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Administration of Melatonin in Diabetic Retinopathy Is Effective and Improves the Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:6342594. [PMID: 35450343 PMCID: PMC9017455 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6342594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation is a promising therapeutic technique for the treatment of a variety of diseases; nevertheless, stem cell therapy may not always work as well as it could. The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that employing a powerful antioxidant like melatonin improves stem cell transplantation success and potentiates stem cell function in the therapy of diabetic retinopathy. For this purpose, 50 adult male rats were divided into the following: control group: this group received 0.5 ml of 0.1 M of sodium citrate buffer (pH = 4.5) (intraperitoneal (I.P.)). The confirmed diabetic rats were divided into 4 groups: diabetic group: confirmed diabetic rats received no treatments with a regular follow of the blood glucose profile for 8 weeks; melatonin group: confirmed diabetic rats received melatonin (5 mg/kg/day); stem cell group: the confirmed diabetic rats were given intravitreal injection of stem cells (2 μl cell suspension of stem cells (3 × 104 cells/μl)); and melatonin+stem cell group: confirmed diabetic rats received melatonin (5 mg/kg/day), orally once daily for 8 weeks, and 2 μl cell suspension of stem cells (3 × 104 cells/μl) was carefully injected into the vitreous cavity. Our results showed that administration of melatonin and/or stem cell restored the retinal oxidative/antioxidant redox and reduced retinal inflammatory mediators. Coadministration of melatonin and stem cells enhanced the number of transplanted stem cells in the retinal tissue and significantly reduced retinal BDEF, VEGF, APOA1, and RBP4 levels as compared to melatonin and/or stem alone. We may conclude that rats treated with melatonin and stem cells had their retinal oxidative/antioxidant redox values restored to normal and their histological abnormalities reduced. These findings support the hypothesis that interactions with the BDEF, VEGF, APOA1, and RBP4 signaling pathways are responsible for these effects.
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Kim J, Lee YJ, Won JY. Molecular Mechanisms of Retinal Pigment Epithelium Dysfunction in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212298. [PMID: 34830181 PMCID: PMC8624542 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), situated upon Bruch’s membrane, plays multiple roles in the ocular system by interacting with photoreceptors and. Therefore, dysfunction of the RPE causes diseases related to vision loss, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Despite AMD being a global cause of blindness, the pathogenesis remains unclear. Understanding the pathogenesis of AMD is the first step for its prevention and treatment. This review summarizes the common pathways of RPE dysfunction and their effect in AMD. Potential treatment strategies for AMD based on targeting the RPE have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongmin Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Korea;
| | - Yeo Jin Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 03312, Korea;
- Catholic Institute for Visual Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 14662, Korea
| | - Jae Yon Won
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 03312, Korea;
- Catholic Institute for Visual Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 14662, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Nandakumar S, Shahani P, Datta I, Pal R. Interventional Strategies for Parkinson Disease: Can Neural Precursor Cells Forge a Path Ahead? ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:3785-3794. [PMID: 34628850 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural precursor cells (NPCs), derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), with their unique ability to generate multiple neuronal and glial cell types are extremely useful for understanding biological mechanisms in normal and diseased states. However, generation of specific neuronal subtypes (mature) from NPCs in large numbers adequate for cell therapy is challenging due to lack of a thorough understanding of the cues that govern their differentiation. Interestingly, neural stem cells (NSCs) themselves are in consideration for therapy given their potency to form different neural cell types, release of trophic factors, and immunomodulatory effects that confer neuroprotection. With the recent COVID-19 outbreak and its accompanying neurological indications, the immunomodulatory role of NSCs may gain additional significance in the prevention of disease progression in vulnerable populations. In this regard, small-molecule mediated NPC generation from PSCs via NSC formation has become an important strategy that ensures consistency and robustness of the process. The development of the mammalian brain occurs along the rostro-caudal axis, and the establishment of anterior identity is an early event. Wnt signaling, along with fibroblast growth factor and retinoic acid, acts as a caudalization signal. Further, the increasing amount of epigenetic data available from human fetal brain development has enhanced both our understanding of and ability to experimentally manipulate these developmental regulatory programs in vitro. However, the impact on homing and engraftment after transplantation and subsequently on therapeutic efficacy of NPCs based on their derivation strategy is not yet clear. Another formidable challenge in cell replacement therapy for neurodegenerative disorders is the mode of delivery. In this Perspective, we discuss these core ideas with insights from our preliminary studies exploring the role of PSC-derived NPCs in rat models of MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease following intranasal injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapna Nandakumar
- Eyestem Research, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), Bengaluru 560065, Karnataka, India
| | - Pradnya Shahani
- Department of Biophysics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560029, Karnataka, India
| | - Indrani Datta
- Department of Biophysics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560029, Karnataka, India
| | - Rajarshi Pal
- Eyestem Research, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), Bengaluru 560065, Karnataka, India
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Cell Ferroptosis: New Mechanism and New Hope for Retinitis Pigmentosa. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082153. [PMID: 34440922 PMCID: PMC8393369 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a leading cause of inherited retinal degeneration, with more than 60 gene mutations. Despite the genetic heterogenicity, photoreceptor cell damage remains the hallmark of RP pathology. As a result, RP patients usually suffer from reduced night vision, loss of peripheral vision, decreased visual acuity, and impaired color perception. Although photoreceptor cell death is the primary outcome of RP, the underlying mechanisms are not completely elucidated. Ferroptosis is a novel programmed cell death, with characteristic iron overload and lipid peroxidation. Recent studies, using in vitro and in vivo RP models, discovered the involvement of ferroptosis-associated cell death, suggesting a possible new mechanism for RP pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the association between ferroptosis and photoreceptor cell damage, and its implication in the pathogenesis of RP. We propose that ferroptotic cell death not only opens up a new research area in RP, but may also serve as a novel therapeutic target for RP.
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Sharma A, Jaganathan BG. Stem Cell Therapy for Retinal Degeneration: The Evidence to Date. Biologics 2021; 15:299-306. [PMID: 34349498 PMCID: PMC8327474 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s290331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a rise in the number of people who have vision loss due to retinal diseases, and conventional therapies for treating retinal degeneration fail to repair and regenerate the damaged retina. Several studies in animal models and human trials have explored the use of stem cells to repair the retinal tissue to improve visual acuity. In addition to the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), stem cell therapies were used to treat genetic diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Stargardt’s disease, characterized by gradual loss of photoreceptor cells in the retina. Transplantation of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have shown promising results in improving retinal function in various preclinical models of retinal degeneration and clinical studies without any severe side effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were utilized to treat optic neuropathy, RP, DR, and glaucoma with positive clinical outcomes. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical evidence of stem cell therapy and current limitations in utilizing stem cells for retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Sharma
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Bithiah Grace Jaganathan
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
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A defined subset of clonal retinal stem cell spheres is biased to RPE differentiation. iScience 2021; 24:102574. [PMID: 34151227 PMCID: PMC8188557 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal stem cells (RSCs) are rare pigmented cells found in the pigmented ciliary layer of the mammalian retina. Studies show that RSCs can replicate to maintain the stem cell pool and produce retinal progenitors that differentiate into all retinal cell types. We classified RSCs based on their level and distribution of pigment into heavily pigmented (HP), lightly pigmented (LP), and centrally pigmented (CP) spheres. We report that CP spheres are capable of generating large cobblestone lawns of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. The other clonal sphere types (HP and LP) primarily produce cells with neural morphology and fewer RPE cells. The RSCs are homogeneous, but their downstream progenitors are different. We found that CP spheres contain highly proliferative populations of early RPE progenitors that respond to proliferative signals from the surrounding non-pigmented cells. HP and LP spheres contain late RPE progenitors which are not affected by proliferative signals. Three types of clonal retinal stem cell spheres form from the same single stem cell Centrally pigmented spheres contain populations of early RPE progenitors Heavily and lightly pigmented spheres contain populations of late RPE progenitors Downstream RPE progenitors are different due to extrinsic and intrinsic factors
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