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Alenezi H, Parnell G, Schibeci S, Ozkan J, Willcox M, White AJR, Carnt N. Ocular surface immune transcriptome and tear cytokines in corneal infection patients. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1346821. [PMID: 38694515 PMCID: PMC11061372 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1346821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Microbial keratitis is one of the leading causes of blindness globally. An overactive immune response during an infection can exacerbate damage, causing corneal opacities and vision loss. This study aimed to identify the differentially expressed genes between corneal infection patients and healthy volunteers within the cornea and conjunctiva and elucidate the contributing pathways to these conditions' pathogenesis. Moreover, it compared the corneal and conjunctival transcriptomes in corneal-infected patients to cytokine levels in tears. Methods Corneal and conjunctival swabs were collected from seven corneal infection patients and three healthy controls under topical anesthesia. RNA from seven corneal infection patients and three healthy volunteers were analyzed by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). Tear proteins were extracted from Schirmer strips via acetone precipitation from 38 cases of corneal infection and 14 healthy controls. The cytokines and chemokines IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL8 (IL-8), CX3CL1, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-17A, and IL-23 were measured using an antibody bead assay. Results A total of 512 genes were found to be differentially expressed in infected corneas compared to healthy corneas, with 508 being upregulated and four downregulated (fold-change (FC) <-2 or > 2 and adjusted p <0.01). For the conjunctiva, 477 were upregulated, and 3 were downregulated (FC <-3 or ≥ 3 and adjusted p <0.01). There was a significant overlap in cornea and conjunctiva gene expression in patients with corneal infections. The genes were predominantly associated with immune response, regulation of angiogenesis, and apoptotic signaling pathways. The most highly upregulated gene was CXCL8 (which codes for IL-8 protein). In patients with corneal infections, the concentration of IL-8 protein in tears was relatively higher in patients compared to healthy controls but did not show statistical significance. Conclusions During corneal infection, many genes were upregulated, with most of them being associated with immune response, regulation of angiogenesis, and apoptotic signaling. The findings may facilitate the development of treatments for corneal infections that can dampen specific aspects of the immune response to reduce scarring and preserve sight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Alenezi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences in Al-Kharj, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Grant Parnell
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Schibeci
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jerome Ozkan
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew J. R. White
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Carnt
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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2
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Wu J, Chen N, Grau E, Johnson L, Liu Y, Li C, Scott PA, Kim C, Sun D, Kaplan HJ, Shao H. Short chain fatty acids inhibit corneal inflammatory responses to TLR ligands via the ocular G-protein coupled receptor 43. Ocul Surf 2024; 32:48-57. [PMID: 38224777 PMCID: PMC11056309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut microbiota are known to play primary roles in gut homeostasis by immunomodulation partially through G-protein coupled receptors (GPR) 43. Using mouse models of TLR ligand induced keratitis, we investigated whether SCFAs and GPR43 play any regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory responses in the eye. METHODS Both human and mouse eyes were labeled with a specific antibody for GPR43 and imaged by a laser scanning confocal microscope. Corneal cups from naïve C57BL/6J (B6) and GPR43 knockout (KO) mice were stimulated with TLR ligands in the presence or absence of sodium butyrate overnight and then processed for RT-PCR assay for expression of GPR43 and cytokines. Keratitis was induced by Poly I:C in wild type (WT) B6, GPR43KO and chimeric mice and the disease severity was evaluated by the corneal fluorescein staining test, and infiltrating cell staining and calculating in corneal whole mount. RESULTS GPR43 is expressed in both human and mouse eyes and the expression is bidirectionally regulated by TLR ligands and butyrate. Butyrate significantly inhibited inflammation caused by several TLR ligands such as Poly I:C, Flagellin, and CpG-ODN (TLR-3, 5 and 9 agonists, respectively) in WT, but not GPR43KO, mice. Butyrate inhibition of TLR-induced keratitis is mediated by the GPR43 expressed in tissue but not hematopoietic, cells. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report to demonstrate of the protective effect of SCFAs on microbial keratitis, and the dynamic expression and anti-inflammatory function of GPR43 in the eye. SCFAs can modulate inflammation and immunity in the eye through GPR43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Nu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Grau
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Luke Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Yongqing Liu
- Department of Medicine-oncology, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Chi Li
- Department of Medicine-oncology, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Patrick A Scott
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Chang Kim
- Department of Pathology, Mary H. Weiser Food Allergy Center, 4025 Biomedical Science Research Building, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Deming Sun
- Doheny Eye Institute & Department Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Henry J Kaplan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Hui Shao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kentucky Lions Eye Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA.
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3
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Lee SJ, Lee SH, Koh A, Kim KW. EGF-conditioned M1 macrophages Convey reduced inflammation into corneal endothelial cells through exosomes. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26800. [PMID: 38434401 PMCID: PMC10906407 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), a protein pivotal in cell proliferation and survival, has recently shown promise in alleviating inflammation. This study investigates EGF's impact on M1 macrophages, exploring its potential for anti-inflammatory and anti-vasculogenic interactions with corneal endothelial cells (CECs). Polarized M1 macrophages treated with EGF exhibited a suppression of gene expressions related to inflammatory and vasculogenic signals. The anti-inflammatory effects of EGF were observed in co-culture systems with human CECs (HCECs), showcasing its ability to alter macrophage phenotypes. Exosomes derived from EGF-treated M1 macrophages demonstrated enriched proteomic profiles related to immune system regulation and inflammation inhibition. When applied as eye drops in murine corneas, EGF-conditioned M1 macrophage-derived exosomes effectively reduced inflammation and increased M2-related ARG1 expression. This study highlights EGF's potential in mitigating inflammation in M1 macrophages and its delivery through exosomes to cultured HCECs and murine corneas, suggesting a novel therapeutic avenue for ocular surface anti-inflammatory treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Jin Lee
- Chung-Ang Ocular Surface Restoration via Immune-inflammation Alleviation (CORIA) Laboratory, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hyeun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahra Koh
- Chung-Ang Ocular Surface Restoration via Immune-inflammation Alleviation (CORIA) Laboratory, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Chung-Ang University Graduate School, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Woo Kim
- Chung-Ang Ocular Surface Restoration via Immune-inflammation Alleviation (CORIA) Laboratory, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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4
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Kapoor D, Sharma P, Siani A, Azhar E, Elste J, Kohlmeir EK, Shukla D, Tiwari V. Tunneling Nanotubes: The Cables for Viral Spread and Beyond. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 73:375-417. [PMID: 39242387 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62036-2_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Multicellular organisms require cell-to-cell communication to maintain homeostasis and thrive. For cells to communicate, a network of filamentous, actin-rich tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) plays a pivotal role in facilitating efficient cell-to-cell communication by connecting the cytoplasm of adjacent or distant cells. Substantial documentation indicates that diverse cell types employ TNTs in a sophisticated and intricately organized fashion for both long and short-distance communication. Paradoxically, several pathogens, including viruses, exploit the structural integrity of TNTs to facilitate viral entry and rapid cell-to-cell spread. These pathogens utilize a "surfing" mechanism or intracellular transport along TNTs to bypass high-traffic cellular regions and evade immune surveillance and neutralization. Although TNTs are present across various cell types in healthy tissue, their magnitude is increased in the presence of viruses. This heightened induction significantly amplifies the role of TNTs in exacerbating disease manifestations, severity, and subsequent complications. Despite significant advancements in TNT research within the realm of infectious diseases, further studies are imperative to gain a precise understanding of TNTs' roles in diverse pathological conditions. Such investigations are essential for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at leveraging TNT-associated mechanisms for clinical applications. In this chapter, we emphasize the significance of TNTs in the life cycle of viruses, showcasing the potential for a targeted approach to impede virus-host cell interactions during the initial stages of viral infections. This approach holds promise for intervention and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Kapoor
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pankaj Sharma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Akash Siani
- Hinsdale Central High School, Hinsdale, IL, USA
| | - Eisa Azhar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - James Elste
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | | | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vaibhav Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA.
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Lappin M, Wotman K, Chow L, Williams M, Hawley J, Dow S. Nanoparticle ocular immunotherapy for herpesvirus surface eye infections evaluated in cat infection model. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279462. [PMID: 36607992 PMCID: PMC9821494 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) infections can trigger conjunctivitis, keratitis, uveitis, and occasionally retinitis, and is a major cause of blindness worldwide. The infections are lifelong and can often recrudesce during periods of stress or immune suppression. Currently HSV-1 infections of the eye are managed primarily with anti-viral eye drops, which require frequent administration, can cause irritation, and may take weeks for full resolution of symptoms. We therefore evaluated the effectiveness of an ocular immune activating nanoparticle eye drop as a novel approach to treating HSV-1 infection, using a cat feline herpesvirus -1 (FHV-1) ocular infection model. In vitro studies demonstrated significant induction of both type I and II interferon responses by the liposome-dual TLR 3/9 agonist nanoparticles, along with suppression of FHV-1 replication. In cats with naturally occurring eye infections either proven or suspected to involve FHV-1, ocular nanoparticle treated animals experienced resolution of signs within several days of treatment, including resolution of keratitis and corneal ulcers. In a cat model of recrudescent FHV-1 infection, cats treated twice daily with immune nanoparticle eye drops experienced significant lessening of ocular signs of infection and significantly fewer episodes of viral shedding compared to control cats. Treatment was well-tolerated by all cats, without signs of drug-induced ocular irritation. We concluded therefore that non-specific ocular immunotherapy offers significant promise as a novel approach to treatment of HSV-1 and FHV-1 ocular infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lappin
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail: (SD); (ML)
| | - Kathryn Wotman
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Lyndah Chow
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Maggie Williams
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Hawley
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Steven Dow
- From the Translational Medicine Institute, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail: (SD); (ML)
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Puri S, Kenyon BM, Hamrah P. Immunomodulatory Role of Neuropeptides in the Cornea. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1985. [PMID: 36009532 PMCID: PMC9406019 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transparency of the cornea along with its dense sensory innervation and resident leukocyte populations make it an ideal tissue to study interactions between the nervous and immune systems. The cornea is the most densely innervated tissue of the body and possesses both immune and vascular privilege, in part due to its unique repertoire of resident immune cells. Corneal nerves produce various neuropeptides that have a wide range of functions on immune cells. As research in this area expands, further insights are made into the role of neuropeptides and their immunomodulatory functions in the healthy and diseased cornea. Much remains to be known regarding the details of neuropeptide signaling and how it contributes to pathophysiology, which is likely due to complex interactions among neuropeptides, receptor isoform-specific signaling events, and the inflammatory microenvironment in disease. However, progress in this area has led to an increase in studies that have begun modulating neuropeptide activity for the treatment of corneal diseases with promising results, necessitating the need for a comprehensive review of the literature. This review focuses on the role of neuropeptides in maintaining the homeostasis of the ocular surface, alterations in disease settings, and the possible therapeutic potential of targeting these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudan Puri
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Brendan M. Kenyon
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Departments of Immunology and Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Cornea Service, Tufts New England Eye Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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7
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Neuroimmune crosstalk in the cornea: The role of immune cells in corneal nerve maintenance during homeostasis and inflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101105. [PMID: 35868985 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In the cornea, resident immune cells are in close proximity to sensory nerves, consistent with their important roles in the maintenance of nerves in both homeostasis and inflammation. Using in vivo confocal microscopy in humans, and ex vivo immunostaining and fluorescent reporter mice to visualize corneal sensory nerves and immune cells, remarkable progress has been made to advance our understanding of the physical and functional interactions between corneal nerves and immune cells. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent studies relating to corneal immune cells and sensory nerves, and their interactions in health and disease. In particular, we consider how disrupted corneal nerve axons can induce immune cell activity, including in dendritic cells, macrophages and other infiltrating cells, directly and/or indirectly by releasing neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide. We summarize growing evidence that the role of corneal intraepithelial immune cells is likely different in corneal wound healing versus other inflammatory-dominated conditions. The role of different types of macrophages is also discussed, including how stromal macrophages with anti-inflammatory phenotypes communicate with corneal nerves to provide neuroprotection, while macrophages with pro-inflammatory phenotypes, along with other infiltrating cells including neutrophils and CD4+ T cells, can be inhibitory to corneal re-innervation. Finally, this review considers the bidirectional interactions between corneal immune cells and corneal nerves, and how leveraging this interaction could represent a potential therapeutic approach for corneal neuropathy.
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8
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Tiwari V, Koganti R, Russell G, Sharma A, Shukla D. Role of Tunneling Nanotubes in Viral Infection, Neurodegenerative Disease, and Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:680891. [PMID: 34194434 PMCID: PMC8236699 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.680891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The network of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) represents the filamentous (F)-actin rich tubular structure which is connected to the cytoplasm of the adjacent and or distant cells to mediate efficient cell-to-cell communication. They are long cytoplasmic bridges with an extraordinary ability to perform diverse array of function ranging from maintaining cellular physiology and cell survival to promoting immune surveillance. Ironically, TNTs are now widely documented to promote the spread of various pathogens including viruses either during early or late phase of their lifecycle. In addition, TNTs have also been associated with multiple pathologies in a complex multicellular environment. While the recent work from multiple laboratories has elucidated the role of TNTs in cellular communication and maintenance of homeostasis, this review focuses on their exploitation by the diverse group of viruses such as retroviruses, herpesviruses, influenza A, human metapneumovirus and SARS CoV-2 to promote viral entry, virus trafficking and cell-to-cell spread. The later process may aggravate disease severity and the associated complications due to widespread dissemination of the viruses to multiple organ system as observed in current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. In addition, the TNT-mediated intracellular spread can be protective to the viruses from the circulating immune surveillance and possible neutralization activity present in the extracellular matrix. This review further highlights the relevance of TNTs in ocular and cardiac tissues including neurodegenerative diseases, chemotherapeutic resistance, and cancer pathogenesis. Taken together, we suggest that effective therapies should consider precise targeting of TNTs in several diseases including virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Greer Russell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Ananya Sharma
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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9
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Mölzer C, Heissigerova J, Wilson HM, Kuffova L, Forrester JV. Immune Privilege: The Microbiome and Uveitis. Front Immunol 2021; 11:608377. [PMID: 33569055 PMCID: PMC7868421 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.608377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune privilege (IP), a term introduced to explain the unpredicted acceptance of allogeneic grafts by the eye and the brain, is considered a unique property of these tissues. However, immune responses are modified by the tissue in which they occur, most of which possess IP to some degree. The eye therefore displays a spectrum of IP because it comprises several tissues. IP as originally conceived can only apply to the retina as it contains few tissue-resident bone-marrow derived myeloid cells and is immunologically shielded by a sophisticated barrier – an inner vascular and an outer epithelial barrier at the retinal pigment epithelium. The vascular barrier comprises the vascular endothelium and the glia limitans. Immune cells do not cross the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) despite two-way transport of interstitial fluid, governed by tissue oncotic pressure. The BRB, and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) mature in the neonatal period under signals from the expanding microbiome and by 18 months are fully established. However, the adult eye is susceptible to intraocular inflammation (uveitis; frequency ~200/100,000 population). Uveitis involving the retinal parenchyma (posterior uveitis, PU) breaches IP, while IP is essentially irrelevant in inflammation involving the ocular chambers, uveal tract and ocular coats (anterior/intermediate uveitis/sclerouveitis, AU). Infections cause ~50% cases of AU and PU but infection may also underlie the pathogenesis of immune-mediated “non-infectious” uveitis. Dysbiosis accompanies the commonest form, HLA-B27–associated AU, while latent infections underlie BRB breakdown in PU. This review considers the pathogenesis of uveitis in the context of IP, infection, environment, and the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Mölzer
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Jarmila Heissigerova
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Heather M Wilson
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Kuffova
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.,Eye Clinic, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - John V Forrester
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
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10
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Bohn S, Stahnke T, Sperlich K, Linke SJ, Farrokhi S, Klemm M, Allgeier S, Köhler B, Reichert KM, Witt M, Stachs O, Guthoff RF. In vivo Histology of the Cornea - from the "Rostock Cornea Module" to the "Rostock Electronic Slit Lamp" - a Clinical "Proof of Concept" Study. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2020; 237:1442-1454. [PMID: 33231276 DOI: 10.1055/a-1297-4717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Confocal in vivo microscopy is an established method in ophthalmology research. As it requires contact coupling and calibration of the instruments is suboptimal, this method has been only rarely used in clinical routine work. As a result of close collaboration between physicists, information scientists and ophthalmologists, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) of the eye has been developed in recent years and a prototype can now be used in patients. The present study evaluates possible clinical uses of this method. MATERIAL AND METHODS The essential innovations in CLSM are (1) a newly designed coupling element with superficial adaptation to corneal curvature and (2) the use of a dual computerised piezo drive for rapid and precise focusing. In post-processing and after elastic imaging registration of the individual images parallel to the surface, it is also possible to produce sagittal sections resembling a split lamp and with resolution in the micrometer range. The concept was tested on enucleated pig bulbi and tested on normal volunteers and selected patients with diseases of the cornea. RESULTS Simultaneous imaging in planes parallel to the surface and in sagittal planes provided additional information that can help us to understand the processes of wound healing in all substructures of the cornea and the role of immune competent cells. Possible clinical uses were demonstrated in a volunteer with healthy eyes and several groups of patients (keratoconus after CXL, recurrent keratitis, status after PRK). These show that this new approach can be used in morphological studies at cellular level in any desired and appropriate test plane. CONCLUSIONS It could be shown that this new concept of CLSM can be used clinically. It can provide valuable and novel information to both preclinical researchers and to ophthalmologists interested in corneal disease, e.g. density of Langerhans cells and epithelial stratification in ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Bohn
- Universitätsaugenklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland.,Department Leben, Licht & Materie, Universität Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Stahnke
- Universitätsaugenklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland.,Department Leben, Licht & Materie, Universität Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Karsten Sperlich
- Universitätsaugenklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland.,Department Leben, Licht & Materie, Universität Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Stephan J Linke
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Deutschland.,Augenarztpraxis am UKE, Zentrumsehstärke, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Sanaz Farrokhi
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Deutschland
| | - Maren Klemm
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Deutschland
| | - Stephan Allgeier
- Institut für Automation und angewandte Informatik, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT), Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Deutschland
| | - Bernd Köhler
- Institut für Automation und angewandte Informatik, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT), Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Deutschland
| | - Klaus-Martin Reichert
- Institut für Automation und angewandte Informatik, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT), Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Deutschland
| | - Martin Witt
- Institut für Anatomie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Oliver Stachs
- Universitätsaugenklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland.,Department Leben, Licht & Materie, Universität Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Rudolf F Guthoff
- Universitätsaugenklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Deutschland.,Department Leben, Licht & Materie, Universität Rostock, Deutschland
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Jiao H, Lim AS, Fazio Coles TE, McQuade RM, Furness JB, Chinnery HR. The effect of high-fat diet-induced metabolic disturbance on corneal neuroimmune features. Exp Eye Res 2020; 201:108298. [PMID: 33069696 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The highly innervated cornea is susceptible to nerve loss secondary to systemic diseases such as diabetes and metabolic disturbances caused by high-fat diet. In this study, we characterize the effect of high-fat diet on the mouse corneal neuroimmune phenotype, including changes to corneal nerve density and resident immune cells, alongside the clinical assessment of corneal thickness and endothelial cell density. METHODS Male C57Bl6/J mice, aged 10 weeks, were fed a high-fat diet (60 kcal% fat, 5.2 kcal/g) or control diet (10 kcal%, 3.8 kcal/g) for 16 weeks. At the study endpoint, metabolic parameters (HbA1c, weight, fasting glucose, body fat) were measured to confirm metabolic disturbance. Clinical imaging of the anterior segment was performed using optical coherence tomography to measure the corneal epithelial and stromal thickness. Corneal sensory nerves were visualized using flatmount immunostaining and confocal microscopy. The topographical distribution and density of sensory nerves (BIII-tubulin+), intraepithelial CD45+ and MHC- II+ cells, stromal macrophages (IBA1+CD206+) and endothelial cells (ZO-1+) were analysed using FIJI. RESULTS High-fat diet mice had significantly higher blood HbA1c, higher body weight, a higher percentage of body fat and elevated fasting glucose compared to the control diet mice. Corneal epithelial and stromal thickness was similar in both groups. The sum length of the basal nerve plexus was lower in the central and peripheral cornea of mice fed a high-fat diet. In contrast, the sum length of superficial nerve terminals was similar between groups. Epithelial immune cell density was two-fold higher in the central corneas of high-fat diet mice compared to control diet mice. IBA1+CD206+ macrophage density was similar in the anterior stroma of both groups but was significantly higher in the posterior stroma of the peripheral cornea in the high-fat diet mice compared to controls. The percentage of nerve-associated MHC-II+ cells in the epithelium and stroma was higher in HFD mice compared to controls. Endothelial cell density was similar in the corneas of high-fat diet mice compared to controls. CONCLUSION Together with corneal neuropathy, corneal immune cells in mice fed a high-fat diet were differentially affected depending on their topographical distribution and location within cornea, and appeared in closer proximity to epithelial and stromal nerves, suggesting a local neuroimmune disruption induced by systemic metabolic disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihan Jiao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alicia Sl Lim
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Therese E Fazio Coles
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel M McQuade
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Medicine, Western Health, Melbourne University, Sunshine, Victoria, Australia
| | - John B Furness
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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12
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Tunneling Nanotubes and the Eye: Intercellular Communication and Implications for Ocular Health and Disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:7246785. [PMID: 32352005 PMCID: PMC7171654 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7246785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cellular communication is an essential process for the development and maintenance of all tissues including the eye. Recently, a new method of cellular communication has been described, which relies on formation of tubules, called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). These structures connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells and allow the direct transport of cellular cargo between cells without the need for secretion into the extracellular milieu. TNTs may be an important mechanism for signaling between cells that reside long distances from each other or for cells in aqueous environments, where diffusion-based signaling is challenging. Given the wide range of cargoes transported, such as lysosomes, endosomes, mitochondria, viruses, and miRNAs, TNTs may play a role in normal homeostatic processes in the eye as well as function in ocular disease. This review will describe TNT cellular communication in ocular cell cultures and the mammalian eye in vivo, the role of TNTs in mitochondrial transport with an emphasis on mitochondrial eye diseases, and molecules involved in TNT biogenesis and their function in eyes, and finally, we will describe TNT formation in inflammation, cancer, and stem cells, focusing on pathological processes of particular interest to vision scientists.
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13
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Jiao H, Naranjo Golborne C, Dando SJ, McMenamin PG, Downie LE, Chinnery HR. Topographical and Morphological Differences of Corneal Dendritic Cells during Steady State and Inflammation. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2019; 28:898-907. [PMID: 31429614 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2019.1646775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We report novel differences in mouse corneal DC morphology and density during local and systemic inflammation. METHODS Local inflammation was induced by topical application of saline or TLR9 agonist CpG-ODN on abraded C57BL6J mouse corneas. Systemic inflammation was induced by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in CD11c-YFP mice. Corneal epithelial DCs from uninjured, injured and contralateral eyes were analysed by confocal microscopy. RESULTS Following local CpG delivery on the injured cornea, the DC density and size increased in both central and peripheral regions. Contralateral uninjured eyes displayed enlarged DC morphology in the central cornea compared to naïve cohorts. After systemic LPS, the size of DCs in the central cornea was lower at 2 hours, returning to baseline after 24 hours. CONCLUSIONS Corneal DCs respond differently in terms of shape and distribution during local and systemic inflammation. These features can serve as in vivo indicators in ocular and systemic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihan Jiao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Cecilia Naranjo Golborne
- Monash Genome Modification Platform, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Samantha J Dando
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane, Australia.,Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul G McMenamin
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Laura E Downie
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Melbourne, Australia
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14
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McKay TB, Seyed-Razavi Y, Ghezzi CE, Dieckmann G, Nieland TJF, Cairns DM, Pollard RE, Hamrah P, Kaplan DL. Corneal pain and experimental model development. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 71:88-113. [PMID: 30453079 PMCID: PMC6690397 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is a valuable tissue for studying peripheral sensory nerve structure and regeneration due to its avascularity, transparency, and dense innervation. Somatosensory innervation of the cornea serves to identify changes in environmental stimuli at the ocular surface, thereby promoting barrier function to protect the eye against injury or infection. Due to regulatory demands to screen ocular safety of potential chemical exposure, a need remains to develop functional human tissue models to predict ocular damage and pain using in vitro-based systems to increase throughput and minimize animal use. In this review, we summarize the anatomical and functional roles of corneal innervation in propagation of sensory input, corneal neuropathies associated with pain, and the status of current in vivo and in vitro models. Emphasis is placed on tissue engineering approaches to study the human corneal pain response in vitro with integration of proper cell types, controlled microenvironment, and high-throughput readouts to predict pain induction. Further developments in this field will aid in defining molecular signatures to distinguish acute and chronic pain triggers based on the immune response and epithelial, stromal, and neuronal interactions that occur at the ocular surface that lead to functional outcomes in the brain depending on severity and persistence of the stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina B McKay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Yashar Seyed-Razavi
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology and Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chiara E Ghezzi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Gabriela Dieckmann
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology and Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas J F Nieland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Dana M Cairns
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Rachel E Pollard
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology and Cornea Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA, 02155, USA.
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15
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Jiao H, Hill LJ, Downie LE, Chinnery HR. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography: its application in clinical practice and experimental models of disease. Clin Exp Optom 2018; 102:208-217. [PMID: 30270476 DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides non-invasive, high-resolution in vivo imaging of the ocular surface and anterior segment. Over the years, it has become an essential tool for evaluating the anterior segment of the eye to monitor ocular development and ocular pathologies in both the clinical and research fields of ophthalmology and optometry. In this review, the clinical applications relating to the use of anterior segment OCT for imaging and quantifying normal and pathological features of the ocular surface, cornea, anterior chamber, and aqueous outflow system are summarised in a range of human ocular diseases. Applications of anterior segment OCT technology that have improved imaging and quantitation of ocular inflammation in experimental animal models of ocular diseases, such as anterior uveitis, microbial keratitis and glaucoma, are also described. The capacity to longitudinally evaluate anterior segment anatomical changes during development, and inflammation facilitates the understanding of the dynamics of tissue responses, and further enhances the intra-operative in vivo imaging during procedures, such as corneal transplantation and drug delivery. Future developments including in vivo ultrahigh-resolution anterior segment OCT, automated analyses of anterior segment OCT images and functional extensions of the technique, may revolutionise the clinical evaluation of anterior segment, corneal and ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihan Jiao
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa J Hill
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Laura E Downie
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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16
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Chinnery HR, McMenamin PG, Dando SJ. Macrophage physiology in the eye. Pflugers Arch 2017; 469:501-515. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-017-1947-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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17
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[Macrophages : Causing ocular metastasis or immune reaction on tumor cells in the eye?]. Ophthalmologe 2016; 113:1092-1094. [PMID: 27888302 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-016-0400-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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18
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Cui HP, Pei YX, Li GF, Lou YR. Effect of glucocorticoid on cytokines TLR9 and TLR7 in peripheral blood for patients with uveitis. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:3893-3896. [PMID: 28101171 PMCID: PMC5228065 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of glucocorticoid on cytokines Toll-like receptor (TLR)9 and TLR7 in peripheral blood of patients with uveitis was explored. Forty-six patients with uveitis admitted to our hospital from April 2014 to April 2015 were selected as the research observational group. Thirty-five able-bodied individuals in the same period were selected as the control group. To treat uveitis, the observational group was injected with glucocorticoid (1–2 mg/kg/day) daily, while the control group did not receive any treatment. The quantity of expression of peripheral blood cytokines TLR9 and TLR7 were detected by the methods of fluorescence quantitative PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. The content of peripheral blood TLR9 and TLR7 (0.21±0.01, 0.19±0.01) decreased significantly (P<0.05) in observational group after glucocorticoid treatment. Compared with data of control group (0.21±0.01, 0.19±0.01), TLR9 and TLR7 content in peripheral blood after glucocorticoid treatment on the patients with uveitis from observation group (0.19±0.01, 0.17±0.01) did not show any significant difference, for correlation between TLR9 and TLR7 in observation group before and after treatment. It was observed that the cytokine content of TLR9 was associated with TLR7 positively (r=0.653, P=0.012). In conclusion, glucocorticoid can improve uveitis by reducing the content of cytokines TLR9 and TLR7 in peripheral blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Pei Cui
- Department of Ophtalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Xi Pei
- Department of Ophtalmology, Women and Infants Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, Henan 450012, P.R. China
| | - Guan-Feng Li
- Department of Ophtalmology, Children's Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, Henan 450053, P.R. China
| | - Yan-Rui Lou
- Department of Ophtalmology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, P.R. China
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19
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Wu J, Su W, Powner MB, Liu J, Copland DA, Fruttiger M, Madeddu P, Dick AD, Liu L. Pleiotropic action of CpG-ODN on endothelium and macrophages attenuates angiogenesis through distinct pathways. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31873. [PMID: 27558877 PMCID: PMC4997267 DOI: 10.1038/srep31873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an integral relationship between vascular cells and leukocytes in supporting healthy tissue homeostasis. Furthermore, activation of these two cellular components is key for tissue repair following injury. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a role in innate immunity defending the organism against infection, but their contribution to angiogenesis remains unclear. Here we used synthetic TLR9 agonists, cytosine-phosphate-guanosine oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN), to investigate the role of TLR9 in vascular pathophysiology and identify potential therapeutic translation. We demonstrate that CpG-ODN stimulates inflammation yet inhibits angiogenesis. Regulation of angiogenesis by CpG-ODN is pervasive and tissue non-specific. Further, we noted that synthetic CpG-ODN requires backbone phosphorothioate but not TLR9 activation to render and maintain endothelial stalk cells quiescent. CpG-ODN pre-treated endothelial cells enhance macrophage migration but restrain pericyte mobilisation. CpG-ODN attenuation of angiogenesis, however, remains TLR9-dependent, as inhibition is lost in TLR9 deficient mice. Additionally, CpG-ODNs induce an M1 macrophage phenotype that restricts angiogenesis. The effects mediated by CpG-ODNs can therefore modulate both endothelial cells and macrophages through distinct pathways, providing potential therapeutic application in ocular vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Wu
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Wenru Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Centre for Clinic Immunology, Sun Yat-sen University Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Michael B. Powner
- UCL-Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jian Liu
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - David A. Copland
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Marcus Fruttiger
- UCL-Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paolo Madeddu
- Bristol Heart Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew D. Dick
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
- UCL-Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Lei Liu
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
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NADPH oxidase 2 plays a role in experimental corneal neovascularization. Clin Sci (Lond) 2016; 130:683-96. [PMID: 26814205 DOI: 10.1042/cs20150103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Corneal neovascularization, the growth of new blood vessels in the cornea, is a leading cause of vision impairment after corneal injury. Neovascularization typically occurs in response to corneal injury such as that caused by infection, physical trauma, chemical burns or in the setting of corneal transplant rejection. The NADPH oxidase enzyme complex is involved in cell signalling for wound-healing angiogenesis, but its role in corneal neovascularization has not been studied. We have now analysed the role of the Nox2 isoform of NADPH oxidase in corneal neovascularization in mice following chemical injury. C57BL/6 mice aged 8-14 weeks were cauterized with an applicator coated with 75% silver nitrate and 25% potassium nitrate for 8 s. Neovascularization extending radially from limbal vessels was observed in corneal whole-mounts from cauterized wild type mice and CD31+ vessels were identified in cauterized corneal sections at day 7. In contrast, in Nox2 knockout (Nox2 KO) mice vascular endothelial growth factor-A (Vegf-A), Flt1 mRNA expression, and the extent of corneal neovascularization were all markedly reduced compared with their wild type controls. The accumulation of Iba-1+ microglia and macrophages in the cornea was significantly less in Nox2 KO than in wild type mice. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that Nox2 is implicated in the inflammatory and neovascular response to corneal chemical injury in mice and clearly VEGF is a mediator of this effect. This work raises the possibility that therapies targeting Nox2 may have potential for suppressing corneal neovascularization and inflammation in humans.
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