1
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Wu KY, Dhaliwal JK, Sasitharan A, Kalevar A. Cell Therapy for Retinal Degenerative Diseases: Progress and Prospects. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:1299. [PMID: 39458628 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16101299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2024] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are leading causes of vision loss, with AMD affecting older populations and RP being a rarer, genetically inherited condition. Both diseases result in progressive retinal degeneration, for which current treatments remain inadequate in advanced stages. This review aims to provide an overview of the retina's anatomy and physiology, elucidate the pathophysiology of AMD and RP, and evaluate emerging cell-based therapies for these conditions. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted, focusing on cell therapy approaches, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and retinal progenitor cells. Preclinical and clinical studies were analyzed to assess therapeutic potential, with attention to mechanisms such as cell replacement, neuroprotection, and paracrine effects. Relevant challenges, including ethical concerns and clinical translation, were also explored. Results: Cell-based therapies demonstrate potential for restoring retinal function and slowing disease progression through mechanisms like neuroprotection and cell replacement. Preclinical trials show promising outcomes, but clinical studies face significant hurdles, including challenges in cell delivery and long-term efficacy. Combination therapies integrating gene editing and biomaterials offer potential future advancements. Conclusions: While cell-based therapies for AMD and RP have made significant progress, substantial barriers to clinical application remain. Further research is essential to overcome these obstacles, improve delivery methods, and ensure the safe and effective translation of these therapies into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Jaskarn K Dhaliwal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Akash Sasitharan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0GA, Canada
| | - Ananda Kalevar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada
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2
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Babighian S, Zanella MS, Gattazzo I, Galan A, Gagliano C, D'Esposito F, Zeppieri M. Atrophic Macular Degeneration and Stem Cell Therapy: A Clinical Review. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39259423 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2024_819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of visual loss in older patients. No effective drug is available for this pathology, but studies about therapy with stem cells replacing the damaged retinal cells with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) were described. The documentation of AMD progression and the response to stem cell therapy have been performed by optical coherence tomography, microperimetry, and other diagnostic technologies.This chapter reports a clinical review of the most important clinical trials and protocols regarding the use of stem cells in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Babighian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale Sant'Antonio, Azienda Ospedaliera, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Sole Zanella
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale Sant'Antonio, Azienda Ospedaliera, Padova, Italy
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Gattazzo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale Sant'Antonio, Azienda Ospedaliera, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Galan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale Sant'Antonio, Azienda Ospedaliera, Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Eye Clinic Catania University San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna "Kore", Piazza dell'Università, Enna, EN, Italy
| | - Fabiana D'Esposito
- Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG) Unit, Imperial College, London, UK
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy.
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3
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Tian Z, Liu Q, Lin HY, Zhu YR, Ling L, Sung TC, Wang T, Li W, Gao M, Cheng S, Renuka RR, Subbiah SK, Fan G, Wu GJ, Higuchi A. Effects of ECM protein-coated surfaces on the generation of retinal pigment epithelium cells differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells. Regen Biomater 2024; 11:rbae091. [PMID: 39233867 PMCID: PMC11374035 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbae091] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), initially manifest as dysfunction or death of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Subretinal transplantation of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived RPE cells has emerged as a potential therapy for retinal degeneration. However, RPE cells differentiated from hPSCs using current protocols are xeno-containing and are rarely applied in clinical trials. The development of hPSC-derived RPE cell differentiation protocols using xeno-free biomaterials is urgently needed for clinical applications. In this study, two protocols (the activin A and NIC84 protocols) were selected for modification and use in the differentiation of hiPSCs into RPE cells; the chetomin concentration was gradually increased to achieve high differentiation efficiency of RPE cells. The xeno-free extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, laminin-511, laminin-521 and recombinant vitronectin, were selected as plate-coating substrates, and a Matrigel (xeno-containing ECM)-coated surface was used as a positive control. Healthy, mature hPSC-derived RPE cells were transplanted into 21-day-old Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats, a model of retinal degeneration disease. The visual function of RCS rats was evaluated by optomotor response (qOMR) and electroretinography after transplantation of hPSC-derived RPE cells. Our study demonstrated that hPSCs can be efficiently differentiated into RPE cells on LN521-coated dishes using the NIC84 protocol, and that subretinal transplantation of the cell suspensions can delay the progression of vision loss in RCS rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Hui-Yu Lin
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan, China
| | - Yu-Ru Zhu
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan, China
| | - Ling Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Wanqi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Min Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Sitian Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Remya Rajan Renuka
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Subbiah
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India
| | - Guoping Fan
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gwo-Jang Wu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan, China
| | - Akon Higuchi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan, China
- R&D Center for Membrane Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chungli, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan, China
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4
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Perez VL, Mousa HM, Miyagishima KJ, Reed AA, Su AJA, Greenwell TN, Washington KM. Retinal transplant immunology and advancements. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:817-829. [PMID: 38729155 PMCID: PMC11297553 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Several gaps and barriers remain for transplanting stem cells into the eye to treat ocular disease, especially diseases of the retina. While the eye has historically been considered immune privileged, recent thinking has identified the immune system as both a barrier and an opportunity for eye stem cell transplantation. Recent approaches leveraging scaffolds or cloaking have been considered in other tissues beyond immune suppression. This perspective paper outlines approaches for transplantation and proposes opportunities to overcome barriers of the immune system in stem cell transplantation in the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor L Perez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Hazem M Mousa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Amberlynn A Reed
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - An-Jey A Su
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, CU Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Thomas N Greenwell
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kia M Washington
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, CU Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Liu W, Zhang C, Jiang F, Tan Y, Qin B. From theory to therapy: a bibliometric and visual study of stem cell advancements in age-related macular degeneration. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:616-631. [PMID: 38483361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.02.022] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Human pluripotent stem cells, including embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, offer groundbreaking therapeutic potential for degenerative diseases and cellular repair. Despite their significance, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis in this field, particularly in relation to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is yet to be conducted. This study aims to map the foundational and emerging areas in stem cell and AMD research through bibliometric analysis. METHODS This study analyzed articles and reviews on stem cells and AMD from 2000 to 2022, sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection. We used VOSviewer and CiteSpace for analysis and visualization of data pertaining to countries, institutions, authors, journals, references and key words. Statistical analyses were conducted using R language and Microsoft Excel 365. RESULTS In total, 539 publications were included, indicating an increase in global literature on stem cells and AMD from 2000 to 2022. The USA was the leading contributor, with 239 papers and the highest H-index, also the USA had the highest average citation rate per article (59.82). Notably, 50% of the top 10 institutions were from the USA, with the University of California system being the most productive. Key authors included Masayo Takahashi, Michiko Mandai, Dennis Clegg, Pete J. Coffey, Boris Stanzel, and Budd A. Tucker. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science published the majority of relevant papers (n = 27). Key words like "clinical trial," "stem cell therapy," "retinal organoid," and "retinal progenitor cells" were predominant. CONCLUSIONS Research on stem cells and AMD has grown significantly, highlighting the need for increased global cooperation. Current research prioritizes the relationship between "ipsc," "induced pluripotent stem cell," "cell culture," and "human embryonic stem cell." As stem cell culture and safety have advanced, focus has shifted to prognosis and complications post-transplantation, signifying the movement of stem cell research from labs to clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yao Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Postdoctoral Station of Clinical Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China.
| | - Bo Qin
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.
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Bose D, Ortolan D, Farnoodian M, Sharma R, Bharti K. Considerations for Developing an Autologous Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC)-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) Replacement Therapy. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041295. [PMID: 37487631 PMCID: PMC10910357 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Cell-replacement therapies are a new class of treatments, which include induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived tissues that aim to replace degenerated cells. iPSCs can potentially be used to generate any cell type of the body, making them a powerful tool for treating degenerative diseases. Cell replacement for retinal degenerative diseases is at the forefront of cell therapies, given the accessibility of the eye for surgical procedures and a huge unmet medical need for retinal degenerative diseases with no current treatment options. Clinical trials are ongoing in different parts of the world using stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). This review focuses on scientific and regulatory considerations when developing an iPSC-derived RPE cell therapy from the development of a robust and efficient differentiation protocol to critical quality control assays for cell validation, the choice of an appropriate animal model for preclinical testing, and the regulatory aspects that dictate the final approval for proceeding to a first-in-human clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika Bose
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Davide Ortolan
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Mitra Farnoodian
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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7
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Damiani D, Baggiani M, Della Vecchia S, Naef V, Santorelli FM. Pluripotent Stem Cells as a Preclinical Cellular Model for Studying Hereditary Spastic Paraplegias. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2615. [PMID: 38473862 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) comprise a family of degenerative diseases mostly hitting descending axons of corticospinal neurons. Depending on the gene and mutation involved, the disease could present as a pure form with limb spasticity, or a complex form associated with cerebellar and/or cortical signs such as ataxia, dysarthria, epilepsy, and intellectual disability. The progressive nature of HSPs invariably leads patients to require walking canes or wheelchairs over time. Despite several attempts to ameliorate the life quality of patients that have been tested, current therapeutical approaches are just symptomatic, as no cure is available. Progress in research in the last two decades has identified a vast number of genes involved in HSP etiology, using cellular and animal models generated on purpose. Although unanimously considered invaluable tools for basic research, those systems are rarely predictive for the establishment of a therapeutic approach. The advent of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells allowed instead the direct study of morphological and molecular properties of the patient's affected neurons generated upon in vitro differentiation. In this review, we revisited all the present literature recently published regarding the use of iPS cells to differentiate HSP patient-specific neurons. Most studies have defined patient-derived neurons as a reliable model to faithfully mimic HSP in vitro, discovering original findings through immunological and -omics approaches, and providing a platform to screen novel or repurposed drugs. Thereby, one of the biggest hopes of current HSP research regards the use of patient-derived iPS cells to expand basic knowledge on the disease, while simultaneously establishing new therapeutic treatments for both generalized and personalized approaches in daily medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devid Damiani
- Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Via dei Giacinti 2, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Baggiani
- Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Via dei Giacinti 2, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Della Vecchia
- Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Via dei Giacinti 2, 56128 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Naef
- Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Via dei Giacinti 2, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Maria Santorelli
- Molecular Medicine for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Via dei Giacinti 2, 56128 Pisa, Italy
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8
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Rzhanova LA, Markitantova YV, Aleksandrova MA. Recent Achievements in the Heterogeneity of Mammalian and Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Search of a Stem Cell. Cells 2024; 13:281. [PMID: 38334673 PMCID: PMC10854871 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells are important fundamentally for the development and function of the retina. In this regard, the study of the morphological and molecular properties of RPE cells, as well as their regenerative capabilities, is of particular importance for biomedicine. However, these studies are complicated by the fact that, despite the external morphological similarity of RPE cells, the RPE is a population of heterogeneous cells, the molecular genetic properties of which have begun to be revealed by sequencing methods only in recent years. This review carries out an analysis of the data from morphological and molecular genetic studies of the heterogeneity of RPE cells in mammals and humans, which reveals the individual differences in the subpopulations of RPE cells and the possible specificity of their functions. Particular attention is paid to discussing the properties of "stemness," proliferation, and plasticity in the RPE, which may be useful for uncovering the mechanisms of retinal diseases associated with pathologies of the RPE and finding new ways of treating them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuliya V. Markitantova
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 26 Vavilov Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia; (L.A.R.); (M.A.A.)
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9
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Wang Y, Zhang YR, Ding ZQ, Zhang YC, Sun RX, Zhu HJ, Wang JN, Xu B, Zhang P, Ji JD, Liu QH, Chen X. m6A-Mediated Upregulation of Imprinted in Prader-Willi Syndrome Induces Aberrant Apical-Basal Polarization and Oxidative Damage in RPE Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:10. [PMID: 38315495 PMCID: PMC10851782 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.2.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To reveal the clinical significance, pathological involvement and molecular mechanism of imprinted in Prader-Willi syndrome (IPW) in RPE anomalies that contribute to AMD. Methods IPW expression under pathological conditions were detected by microarrays and qPCR assays. In vitro cultured fetal RPE cells were used to study the pathogenicity induced by IPW overexpression and to analyze its upstream and downstream regulatory networks. Results We showed that IPW is upregulated in the macular RPE-choroid tissue of dry AMD patients and in fetal RPE cells under oxidative stress, inflammation and dedifferentiation. IPW overexpression in fetal RPE cells induced aberrant apical-basal polarization as shown by dysregulated polarized markers, disrupted tight and adherens junctions, and inhibited phagocytosis. IPW upregulation was also associated with RPE oxidative damages, as demonstrated by intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species, reduced cell proliferation, and accelerated cell apoptosis. Mechanically, N6-methyladenosine level of the IPW transcript regulated its stability with YTHDC1 as the reader. IPW mediated RPE features by suppressing MEG3 expression to sequester its inhibition on the AKT serine-threonine kinase (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. We also noticed that the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin suppresses the AKT/mTOR pathway to alleviate the IPW-induced RPE anomalies. Conclusions We revealed that IPW overexpression in RPE induces aberrant apical-basal polarization and oxidative damages, thus contributing to AMD progression. We also annotated the upstream and downstream regulatory networks of IPW in RPE. Our findings shed new light on the molecular mechanisms of RPE dysfunctions, and indicate that IPW blockers may be a promising option to treat RPE abnormalities in AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye-Ran Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Qin Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi-Chen Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ru-Xu Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong-Jing Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia-Nan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bei Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiang-Dong Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing-Huai Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xue Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Zhang K, Cai W, Hu L, Chen S. Generating Retinas through Guided Pluripotent Stem Cell Differentiation and Direct Somatic Cell Reprogramming. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:1251-1262. [PMID: 37807418 DOI: 10.2174/011574888x255496230923164547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration diseases affect millions of people worldwide but are among the most difficult eye diseases to cure. Studying the mechanisms and developing new therapies for these blinding diseases requires researchers to have access to many retinal cells. In recent years there has been substantial advances in the field of biotechnology in generating retinal cells and even tissues in vitro, either through programmed sequential stem cell differentiation or direct somatic cell lineage reprogramming. The resemblance of these in vitro-generated retinal cells to native cells has been increasingly utilized by researchers. With the help of these in vitro retinal models, we now have a better understanding of human retinas and retinal diseases. Furthermore, these in vitro-generated retinal cells can be used as donor cells which solves a major hurdle in the development of cell replacement therapy for retinal degeneration diseases, while providing a promising option for patients suffering from these diseases. In this review, we summarize the development of pluripotent stem cell-to-retinal cell differentiation methods, the recent advances in generating retinal cells through direct somatic cell reprogramming, and the translational applications of retinal cells generated in vitro. Finally, we discuss the limitations of the current protocols and possible future directions for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Wenwen Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Leyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Shuyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510623, China
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11
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Lo J, Mehta K, Dhillon A, Huang YK, Luo Z, Nam MH, Al Diri I, Chang KC. Therapeutic strategies for glaucoma and optic neuropathies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101219. [PMID: 37839232 PMCID: PMC10841486 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative eye disease that causes permanent vision impairment. The main pathological characteristics of glaucoma are retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and optic nerve degeneration. Glaucoma can be caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), although some cases are congenital or occur in patients with normal IOP. Current glaucoma treatments rely on medicine and surgery to lower IOP, which only delays disease progression. First-line glaucoma medicines are supported by pharmacotherapy advancements such as Rho kinase inhibitors and innovative drug delivery systems. Glaucoma surgery has shifted to safer minimally invasive (or microinvasive) glaucoma surgery, but further trials are needed to validate long-term efficacy. Further, growing evidence shows that adeno-associated virus gene transduction and stem cell-based RGC replacement therapy hold potential to treat optic nerve fiber degeneration and glaucoma. However, better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of RGC development is needed to provide insight into RGC differentiation from stem cells and help choose target genes for viral therapy. In this review, we overview current progress in RGC development research, optic nerve fiber regeneration, and human stem cell-derived RGC differentiation and transplantation. We also provide an outlook on perspectives and challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan
| | - Kamakshi Mehta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | - Armaan Dhillon
- Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center and Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Yu-Kai Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan
| | - Ziming Luo
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Mi-Hyun Nam
- Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center and Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Issam Al Diri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Center of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan.
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12
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Chakrabarty K, Nayak D, Debnath J, Das D, Shetty R, Ghosh A. Retinal organoids in disease modeling and drug discovery: Opportunities and challenges. Surv Ophthalmol 2023:S0039-6257(23)00127-3. [PMID: 37778668 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Diseases leading to retinal cell loss can cause severe visual impairment and blindness. The lack of effective therapies to address retinal cell loss and the absence of intrinsic regeneration in the human retina leads to an irreversible pathological condition. Progress in recent years in the generation of human three-dimensional retinal organoids from pluripotent stem cells makes it possible to recreate the cytoarchitecture and associated cell-cell interactions of the human retina in remarkable detail. These human three-dimensional retinal organoid systems made of distinct retinal cell types and possessing contextual physiological responses allow the study of human retina development and retinal disease pathology in a way animal model and two-dimensional cell cultures were unable to achieve. We describe the derivation of retinal organoids from human pluripotent stem cells and their application for modeling retinal disease pathologies, while outlining the opportunities and challenges for its application in academia and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koushik Chakrabarty
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
| | - Divyani Nayak
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Jayasree Debnath
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Debashish Das
- Stem Cell Research Lab, GROW Lab, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Rohit Shetty
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya Eye Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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13
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Soucy JR, Aguzzi EA, Cho J, Gilhooley MJ, Keuthan C, Luo Z, Monavarfeshani A, Saleem MA, Wang XW, Wohlschlegel J, Baranov P, Di Polo A, Fortune B, Gokoffski KK, Goldberg JL, Guido W, Kolodkin AL, Mason CA, Ou Y, Reh TA, Ross AG, Samuels BC, Welsbie D, Zack DJ, Johnson TV. Retinal ganglion cell repopulation for vision restoration in optic neuropathy: a roadmap from the RReSTORe Consortium. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:64. [PMID: 37735444 PMCID: PMC10514988 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00655-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in glaucoma and other optic neuropathies results in irreversible vision loss due to the mammalian central nervous system's limited regenerative capacity. RGC repopulation is a promising therapeutic approach to reverse vision loss from optic neuropathies if the newly introduced neurons can reestablish functional retinal and thalamic circuits. In theory, RGCs might be repopulated through the transplantation of stem cell-derived neurons or via the induction of endogenous transdifferentiation. The RGC Repopulation, Stem Cell Transplantation, and Optic Nerve Regeneration (RReSTORe) Consortium was established to address the challenges associated with the therapeutic repair of the visual pathway in optic neuropathy. In 2022, the RReSTORe Consortium initiated ongoing international collaborative discussions to advance the RGC repopulation field and has identified five critical areas of focus: (1) RGC development and differentiation, (2) Transplantation methods and models, (3) RGC survival, maturation, and host interactions, (4) Inner retinal wiring, and (5) Eye-to-brain connectivity. Here, we discuss the most pertinent questions and challenges that exist on the path to clinical translation and suggest experimental directions to propel this work going forward. Using these five subtopic discussion groups (SDGs) as a framework, we suggest multidisciplinary approaches to restore the diseased visual pathway by leveraging groundbreaking insights from developmental neuroscience, stem cell biology, molecular biology, optical imaging, animal models of optic neuropathy, immunology & immunotolerance, neuropathology & neuroprotection, materials science & biomedical engineering, and regenerative neuroscience. While significant hurdles remain, the RReSTORe Consortium's efforts provide a comprehensive roadmap for advancing the RGC repopulation field and hold potential for transformative progress in restoring vision in patients suffering from optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Soucy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass. Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erika A Aguzzi
- The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, England, UK
| | - Julie Cho
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Michael James Gilhooley
- The Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, England, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England, UK
| | - Casey Keuthan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ziming Luo
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Aboozar Monavarfeshani
- Center for Brain Science and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meher A Saleem
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Health System, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Xue-Wei Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Petr Baranov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass. Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Brad Fortune
- Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute and Legacy Research Institute, Legacy Health, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kimberly K Gokoffski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - William Guido
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alex L Kolodkin
- The Solomon H Snyder, Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carol A Mason
- Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Neuroscience, and Ophthalmology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yvonne Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas A Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ahmara G Ross
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian C Samuels
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Callahan Eye Hospital, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Derek Welsbie
- Shiley Eye Institute and Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Donald J Zack
- Glaucoma Center of Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21287 MD, USA
- Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology & Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology & Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Cellular & Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21287 MD, USA.
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14
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Gupta S, Lytvynchuk L, Ardan T, Studenovska H, Sharma R, Faura G, Eide L, Shanker Verma R, Znaor L, Erceg S, Stieger K, Motlik J, Petrovski G, Bharti K. Progress in Stem Cells-Based Replacement Therapy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Vitro Differentiation to In Vivo Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:536-552. [PMID: 37459045 PMCID: PMC10427969 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a critical cell monolayer forming the blood-retina-barrier (BRB) and a permeable bridge between the choriocapillaris and the retina. RPE is also crucial in maintaining photoreceptor function and for completing the visual cycle. Loss of the RPE is associated with the development of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To treat diseases like AMD, pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (pRPE) has been recently explored extensively as a regenerative module. pRPE like other ectodermal tissues requires specific lineage differentiation and long-term in vitro culturing for maturation. Therefore, understanding the differentiation process of RPE could be useful for stem cell-based RPE derivation. Developing pRPE-based transplants and delivering them into the subretinal space is another aspect that has garnered interest in the last decade. In this review, we discuss the basic strategies currently employed for stem cell-based RPE derivation, their delivery, and recent clinical studies related to pRPE transplantation in patients. We have also discussed a few limitations with in vitro RPE culture and potential solutions to overcome such problems which can be helpful in developing functional RPE tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Gupta
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Karl Landsteiner Institute for Retinal Research and Imaging, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Studenovska
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioanalogous Systems, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Faura
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rama Shanker Verma
- Stem Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences. Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ljubo Znaor
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Research Center “Principe Felipe,” Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Knut Stieger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan Motlik
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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15
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Subramani M, Van Hook MJ, Ahmad I. Reproducible generation of human retinal ganglion cells from banked retinal progenitor cells: analysis of target recognition and IGF-1-mediated axon regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1214104. [PMID: 37519299 PMCID: PMC10373790 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1214104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The selective degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is a common feature in glaucoma, a complex group of diseases, leading to irreversible vision loss. Stem cell-based glaucoma disease modeling, cell replacement, and axon regeneration are viable approaches to understand mechanisms underlying glaucomatous degeneration for neuroprotection, ex vivo stem cell therapy, and therapeutic regeneration. These approaches require direct and facile generation of human RGCs (hRGCs) from pluripotent stem cells. Here, we demonstrate a method for rapid generation of hRGCs from banked human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal progenitor cells (hRPCs) by recapitulating the developmental mechanism. The resulting hRGCs are stable, functional, and transplantable and have the potential for target recognition, demonstrating their suitability for both ex vivo stem cell approaches to glaucomatous degeneration and disease modeling. Additionally, we demonstrate that hRGCs derived from banked hRPCs are capable of regenerating their axons through an evolutionarily conserved mechanism involving insulin-like growth factor 1 and the mTOR axis, demonstrating their potential to identify and characterize the underlying mechanism(s) that can be targeted for therapeutic regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iqbal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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16
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Aweidah H, Matsevich C, Khaner H, Idelson M, Ejzenberg A, Reubinoff B, Banin E, Obolensky A. Survival of Neural Progenitors Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Following Subretinal Transplantation in Rodents. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023. [PMID: 37140896 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To examine the survival of neural progenitors (NPs) cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) following subretinal (SR) transplantation in rodents. Methods: hESCs engineered to express enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) were differentiated in vitro toward an NP fate using a 4-week protocol. State of differentiation was characterized by quantitative-PCR. NPs in suspension (75,000/μl) were transplanted to the SR-space of Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats (n = 66), nude-RCS rats (n = 18), and NOD scid gamma (NSG) mice (n = 53). Success of engraftment was determined at 4 weeks post-transplant by in vivo visualization of GFP-expression using a properly filtered rodent fundus camera. Transplanted eyes were examined in vivo at set time points using the fundus camera, and in select cases, by optical coherence tomography imaging, and after enucleation, by retinal histology and immunohistochemistry. Results: In RCS rats, cell rejection was observed in 29% of eyes at 6 weeks, rising to 92% at 8 weeks. In the more immunodeficient nude-RCS rats, the rejection rate was still high reaching 62% of eyes at 6 weeks post-transplant. Following transplantation in highly immunodeficient NSG mice, survival of the hESC-derived NPs was much improved, with 100% survival at 9 weeks and 72% at 20 weeks. A small number of eyes that were followed past 20 weeks showed survival also at 22 weeks. Conclusions: Immune status of recipient animals influences transplant survival. Highly immunodeficient NSG mice provide a better model for studying long-term survival, differentiation, and possible integration of hESC-derived NPs. Clinical Trial Registration numbers: NCT02286089, NCT05626114.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamzah Aweidah
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Chen Matsevich
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hanita Khaner
- Hadassah Stem Cell Research Center, Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Masha Idelson
- Hadassah Stem Cell Research Center, Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ayala Ejzenberg
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Benjamin Reubinoff
- Hadassah Stem Cell Research Center, Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Alexey Obolensky
- Center for Retinal and Macular Degenerations, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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17
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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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18
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Contreras D, Garcia G, Jones MK, Martinez LE, Jayakarunakaran A, Gangalapudi V, Tang J, Wu Y, Zhao JJ, Chen Z, Ramaiah A, Tsui I, Kumar A, Nielsen-Saines K, Wang S, Arumugaswami V. Differential Susceptibility of Fetal Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells, hiPSC- Retinal Stem Cells, and Retinal Organoids to Zika Virus Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:142. [PMID: 36680182 PMCID: PMC9864143 DOI: 10.3390/v15010142] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) causes microcephaly and congenital eye disease. The cellular and molecular basis of congenital ZIKV infection are not well understood. Here, we utilized a biologically relevant cell-based system of human fetal retinal pigment epithelial cells (FRPEs), hiPSC-derived retinal stem cells (iRSCs), and retinal organoids to investigate ZIKV-mediated ocular cell injury processes. Our data show that FRPEs were highly susceptible to ZIKV infection exhibiting increased apoptosis, whereas iRSCs showed reduced susceptibility. Detailed transcriptomics and proteomics analyses of infected FRPEs were performed. Nucleoside analogue drug treatment inhibited ZIKV replication. Retinal organoids were susceptible to ZIKV infection. The Asian genotype ZIKV exhibited higher infectivity, induced profound inflammatory response, and dysregulated transcription factors involved in retinal organoid differentiation. Collectively, our study shows that ZIKV affects ocular cells at different developmental stages resulting in cellular injury and death, further providing molecular insight into the pathogenesis of congenital eye disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deisy Contreras
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Gustavo Garcia
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Melissa Kaye Jones
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Laura E. Martinez
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Akshaya Jayakarunakaran
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | | | - Jie Tang
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ying Wu
- Alpine BioTherapeutics Corporation, 11107 Roselle Street, Suite 210, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Jiagang J. Zhao
- Alpine BioTherapeutics Corporation, 11107 Roselle Street, Suite 210, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Zhaohui Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Arunachalam Ramaiah
- Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Center at inStem, Bangalore 560065, India
| | - Irena Tsui
- Retina Division, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | | | - Shaomei Wang
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Vaithilingaraja Arumugaswami
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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19
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Miotti G, Parodi PC, Ferrari A, Salati C, Zeppieri M. Stem Cells in Ophthalmology: From the Bench to the Bedside. HANDBOOK OF STEM CELL APPLICATIONS 2023:1-24. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-0846-2_10-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
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20
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Miotti G, Parodi PC, Ferrari A, Salati C, Zeppieri M. Stem Cells in Ophthalmology: From the Bench to the Bedside. HANDBOOK OF STEM CELL APPLICATIONS 2023:1-24. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-0846-2_10-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
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21
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Karamali F, Behtaj S, Babaei-Abraki S, Hadady H, Atefi A, Savoj S, Soroushzadeh S, Najafian S, Nasr Esfahani MH, Klassen H. Potential therapeutic strategies for photoreceptor degeneration: the path to restore vision. J Transl Med 2022; 20:572. [PMID: 36476500 PMCID: PMC9727916 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs), as the most abundant and light-sensing cells of the neuroretina, are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. PR degeneration, including morphological and functional impairment of these cells, causes significant diminution of the retina's ability to detect light, with consequent loss of vision. Recent findings in ocular regenerative medicine have opened promising avenues to apply neuroprotective therapy, gene therapy, cell replacement therapy, and visual prostheses to the challenge of restoring vision. However, successful visual restoration in the clinical setting requires application of these therapeutic approaches at the appropriate stage of the retinal degeneration. In this review, firstly, we discuss the mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying cell death. Subsequently, innovations, recent developments, and promising treatments based on the stage of disorder progression are further explored. Then, the challenges to be addressed before implementation of these therapies in clinical practice are considered. Finally, potential solutions to overcome the current limitations of this growing research area are suggested. Overall, the majority of current treatment modalities are still at an early stage of development and require extensive additional studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, before full restoration of visual function in PR degeneration diseases can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Karamali
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Behtaj
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia ,grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222 Australia
| | - Shahnaz Babaei-Abraki
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Hadady
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soraya Savoj
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sareh Soroushzadeh
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Najafian
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Henry Klassen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Irvine, CA USA
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22
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Enosawa S. Clinical Trials of Stem Cell Therapy in Japan: The Decade of Progress under the National Program. J Clin Med 2022; 11:7030. [PMID: 36498605 PMCID: PMC9736364 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11237030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is a current world-wide topic in medical science. Various therapies have been approved based on their effectiveness and put into practical use. In Japan, research and development-related stem cell therapy, generally referred to as regenerative medicine, has been led by the government. The national scheme started in 2002, and support for the transition to clinical trials has been accelerating since 2011. Of the initial 18 projects that were accepted in the budget for preclinical research, 15 projects have begun clinical trials so far. These include the transplantation of retinal, cardiac, and dopamine-producing cells differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and hepatocyte-like cells differentiated from human embryonic stem (ES) cells. The distinctive feature of the stem cell research in Japan is the use of iPS cells. A national framework was also been set-up to attain the final goal: health insurance coverage. Now, insurance covers cell transplantation therapies for the repair and recovery of damaged skin, articular cartilage, and stroke as well as therapies introduced from abroad, such as allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells for graft-versus-host disease and chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell therapy. To prepare this review, original information was sought from Japanese authentic websites, which are reliable but a little hard to access due to the fact of multiple less-organized databases and the language barrier. Then, each fact was corroborated by citing its English version or publication in international journals as much as possible. This review provides a summary of progress over the past decade under the national program and a state-of-the-art factual view of research activities, government policy, and regulation in Japan for the realization of stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Enosawa
- Division for Advanced Medical Sciences, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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23
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Arthur P, Muok L, Nathani A, Zeng EZ, Sun L, Li Y, Singh M. Bioengineering Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Organoids and Optic Vesicle-Containing Brain Organoids for Ocular Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:3429. [PMID: 36359825 PMCID: PMC9653705 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal organoids are three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) that mimic the retina's spatial and temporal differentiation, making them useful as in vitro retinal development models. Retinal organoids can be assembled with brain organoids, the 3D self-assembled aggregates derived from hPSCs containing different cell types and cytoarchitectures that resemble the human embryonic brain. Recent studies have shown the development of optic cups in brain organoids. The cellular components of a developing optic vesicle-containing organoids include primitive corneal epithelial and lens-like cells, retinal pigment epithelia, retinal progenitor cells, axon-like projections, and electrically active neuronal networks. The importance of retinal organoids in ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt disease, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are described in this review. This review highlights current developments in retinal organoid techniques, and their applications in ocular conditions such as disease modeling, gene therapy, drug screening and development. In addition, recent advancements in utilizing extracellular vesicles secreted by retinal organoids for ocular disease treatments are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Arthur
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Laureana Muok
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Aakash Nathani
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Eric Z. Zeng
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
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24
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Balasankar A, Chan SYC, Babu VPS, Yam G, Tin GB, Singhal S. Dental pulp stem cells retain mesenchymal phenotype despite differentiation toward retinal neuronal fate in vitro. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:821361. [PMID: 36314029 PMCID: PMC9596784 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.821361] [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: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are an easily accessible, heterogenous source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that are derived from the neural crest. Evidence suggests that they have neurotrophic qualities in their undifferentiated state and can also be differentiated into neuronal and retinal cell types. There is growing interest in using DPSCs in cell-based therapies to treat glaucoma and blinding retinal diseases. However, careful characterization of these cells is necessary as direct intravitreal and subretinal MSC transplantation is known to lead to deleterious glial reaction and fibrosis. In this study, we provide evidence for the mesenchymal-predominant nature of DPSCs and show that DPSCs maintain their mesenchymal phenotype despite upregulating mature retinal markers under retinal differentiation conditions. CD56, which was previously thought to be a specific marker of neural crest lineage, is robustly co-expressed with mesenchymal markers and may not be adequate for isolating a subpopulation of neural crest cells in DPSCs. Therefore, identification of more specific markers is required to elucidate the heterogeneity of the population and to successfully isolate a putative neural stem cell population before DPSCs can be used for retinal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gary Yam
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Goh Bee Tin
- National Dental Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shweta Singhal
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore,Duke NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore,*Correspondence: Shweta Singhal,
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25
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Abstract
Sorsby fundus dystrophy (SFD) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder with complete penetrance affecting the macula. This is caused by a mutation in the TIMP-3. This objective narrative review aims to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, current treatment modalities, and future perspectives. A literature search was performed using "PubMed," "Web of Science," "Scopus," "ScienceDirect," "Google Scholar," "medRxiv," and "bioRxiv." The molecular mechanisms underlying SFD are not completely understood. Novel advancements in cell culture techniques, including induced pluripotent stem cells, may enable more reliable modeling of SFD. These cell culture techniques aim to shed more light on the pathophysiology of SFD, and hopefully, this may lead to the future development of treatment strategies for SFD. Currently, no gene therapy is available. The main treatment is the use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) to treat secondary choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV), which is a major complication observed in this condition. If CNV is detected and treated promptly, patients with SFD have a good chance of maintaining a functional central vision. Other treatment modalities have been tried but have shown limited benefit, and therefore, have not managed to be more widely accepted. In summary, although there is no definitive cure yet, the use of anti-VEGF treatment for secondary CNV has provided the opportunity to maintain functional vision in individuals with SFD, provided CNV is detected and treated early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsokolas
- Medical Retina and Uveitis Fellow, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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26
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Hiramatsu N, Yamamoto N, Ohkuma M, Nagai N, Miyachi EI, Yamatsuta K, Imaizumi K. Iris-derived induced pluripotent stem cells that express GFP in all somatic cells of mice and differentiate into functional retinal neurons. Med Mol Morphol 2022; 55:292-303. [PMID: 35932315 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-022-00330-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
When regenerated tissue is generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), it is necessary to track and identify the transplanted cells. Fluorescently-labeled iPSCs synthesize a fluorescent substance that is easily tracked. However, the expressed protein should not affect the original genome sequence or pluripotency. To solve this problem, we created a cell tool for basic research on iPSCs. Iris tissue-derived cells from GFP fluorescence-expressing mice (GFP-DBA/2 mice) were reprogrammed to generate GFP mouse iris-derived iPSCs (M-iris GFP iPSCs). M-iris GFP iPSCs expressed cell markers characteristic of iPSCs and showed pluripotency in differentiating into the three germ layers. In addition, when expressing GFP, the cells differentiated into functional recoverin- and calbindin-positive cells. Thus, this cell line will facilitate future studies on iPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Hiramatsu
- Support Office for Bioresource Research, Research Promotion Headquarters, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Naoki Yamamoto
- Support Office for Bioresource Research, Research Promotion Headquarters, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan.
- International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Research Promotion and Support Headquarters, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kanazawa Medical University, Kahoku, Ishikawa, 920-0293, Japan.
- Division of Vision Research for Environmental Health, Project Research Center, Medical Research Institute, Kanazawa Medical University, Kahoku, Ishikawa, 920-0293, Japan.
| | - Mahito Ohkuma
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Noriaki Nagai
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kindai University, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Ei-Ichi Miyachi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Nagoya Women's University, Toyoake, Aichi, 467-8610, Japan
| | - Kumiko Yamatsuta
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Imaizumi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
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27
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Repair of Retinal Degeneration by Human Amniotic Epithelial Stem Cell-Derived Photoreceptor-like Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158722. [PMID: 35955866 PMCID: PMC9369429 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158722] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss of photoreceptors is a major event of retinal degeneration that accounts for most cases of untreatable blindness globally. To date, there are no efficient therapeutic approaches to treat this condition. In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether human amniotic epithelial stem cells (hAESCs) could serve as a novel seed cell source of photoreceptors for therapy. Here, a two–step treatment with combined Wnt, Nodal, and BMP inhibitors, followed by another cocktail of retinoic acid, taurine, and noggin induced photoreceptor–like cell differentiation of hAESCs. The differentiated cells demonstrated the morphology and signature marker expression of native photoreceptor cells and, intriguingly, bore very low levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules and a high level of non–classical MHC class I molecule HLA–G. Importantly, subretinal transplantation of the hAESCs–derived PR–like cells leads to partial restoration of visual function and retinal structure in Royal College of Surgeon (RCS) rats, the classic preclinical model of retinal degeneration. Together, our results reveal hAESCs as a potential source of functional photoreceptor cells; the hAESCs–derived photoreceptor–like cells could be a promising cell–replacement candidate for therapy of retinal degeneration diseases.
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28
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Hall JC, Paull D, Pébay A, Lidgerwood GE. Human pluripotent stem cells for the modelling of retinal pigment epithelium homeostasis and disease: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 50:667-677. [PMID: 35739648 PMCID: PMC9546239 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), which include induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells, are powerful tools for studying human development, physiology and disease, including those affecting the retina. Cells from selected individuals, or specific genetic backgrounds, can be differentiated into distinct cell types allowing the modelling of diseases in a dish for therapeutic development. hPSC‐derived retinal cultures have already been used to successfully model retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration for various retinal diseases including monogenic conditions and complex disease such as age‐related macular degeneration. Here, we will review the current knowledge gained in understanding the molecular events involved in retinal disease using hPSC‐derived retinal models, in particular RPE models. We will provide examples of various conditions to illustrate the scope of applications associated with the use of hPSC‐derived RPE models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna C Hall
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Daniel Paull
- The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute New York New York USA
| | - Alice Pébay
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Grace E. Lidgerwood
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
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29
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Molins B, Mesquida M, Adan A. Bioengineering approaches for modelling retinal pathologies of the outer blood-retinal barrier. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022:101097. [PMID: 35840488 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Alterations of the junctional complex of the outer blood-retinal barrier (oBRB), which is integrated by the close interaction of the retinal pigment epithelium, the Bruch's membrane, and the choriocapillaris, contribute to the loss of neuronal signalling and subsequent vision impairment in several retinal inflammatory disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Reductionist approaches into the mechanisms that underlie such diseases have been hindered by the absence of adequate in vitro models using human cells to provide the 3D dynamic architecture that enables expression of the in vivo phenotype of the oBRB. Conventional in vitro cell models are based on 2D monolayer cellular cultures, unable to properly recapitulate the complexity of living systems. The main drawbacks of conventional oBRB models also emerge from the cell sourcing, the lack of an appropriate Bruch's membrane analogue, and the lack of choroidal microvasculature with flow. In the last years, the advent of organ-on-a-chip, bioengineering, and stem cell technologies is providing more advanced 3D models with flow, multicellularity, and external control over microenvironmental properties. By incorporating additional biological complexity, organ-on-a-chip devices can mirror physiologically relevant properties of the native tissue while offering additional set ups to model and study disease. In this review we first examine the current understanding of oBRB biology as a functional unit, highlighting the coordinated contribution of the different components to barrier function in health and disease. Then we describe recent advances in the use of pluripotent stem cells-derived retinal cells, Bruch's membrane analogues, and co-culture techniques to recapitulate the oBRB. We finally discuss current advances and challenges of oBRB-on-a-chip technologies for disease modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Molins
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marina Mesquida
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alfredo Adan
- Group of Ocular Inflammation: Clinical and Experimental Studies, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Agustí Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Instituto Clínic de Oftalmología, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, C/ Sabino de Arana 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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30
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Kanda GN, Tsuzuki T, Terada M, Sakai N, Motozawa N, Masuda T, Nishida M, Watanabe CT, Higashi T, Horiguchi SA, Kudo T, Kamei M, Sunagawa GA, Matsukuma K, Sakurada T, Ozawa Y, Takahashi M, Takahashi K, Natsume T. Robotic search for optimal cell culture in regenerative medicine. eLife 2022; 11:77007. [PMID: 35762203 PMCID: PMC9239686 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced differentiation is one of the most experience- and skill-dependent experimental processes in regenerative medicine, and establishing optimal conditions often takes years. We developed a robotic AI system with a batch Bayesian optimization algorithm that autonomously induces the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (iPSC-RPE) cells. From 200 million possible parameter combinations, the system performed cell culture in 143 different conditions in 111 days, resulting in 88% better iPSC-RPE production than that obtained by the pre-optimized culture in terms of the pigmentation scores. Our work demonstrates that the use of autonomous robotic AI systems drastically accelerates systematic and unbiased exploration of experimental search space, suggesting immense use in medicine and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genki N Kanda
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,Laboratory for Biologically Inspired Computing, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Osaka, Japan.,Robotic Biology Institute Inc., Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Motoki Terada
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,VCCT Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | - Noriko Sakai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,VCCT Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | - Naohiro Motozawa
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Masuda
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,VCCT Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Nishida
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,VCCT Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Taku Kudo
- Robotic Biology Institute Inc., Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Genshiro A Sunagawa
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Aging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,VCCT Inc., Kobe, Japan.,Vision Care Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | - Koichi Takahashi
- Laboratory for Biologically Inspired Computing, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Osaka, Japan.,Graduate School of Media and Governance, Keio University, Fujisawa, Japan.,Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Tohru Natsume
- Robotic Biology Institute Inc., Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
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31
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Grigoryan EN. Self-Organization of the Retina during Eye Development, Retinal Regeneration In Vivo, and in Retinal 3D Organoids In Vitro. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1458. [PMID: 35740479 PMCID: PMC9221005 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-organization is a process that ensures histogenesis of the eye retina. This highly intricate phenomenon is not sufficiently studied due to its biological complexity and genetic heterogeneity. The review aims to summarize the existing central theories and ideas for a better understanding of retinal self-organization, as well as to address various practical problems of retinal biomedicine. The phenomenon of self-organization is discussed in the spatiotemporal context and illustrated by key findings during vertebrate retina development in vivo and retinal regeneration in amphibians in situ. Described also are histotypic 3D structures obtained from the disaggregated retinal progenitor cells of birds and retinal 3D organoids derived from the mouse and human pluripotent stem cells. The review highlights integral parts of retinal development in these conditions. On the cellular level, these include competence, differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, cooperative movements, and migration. On the physical level, the focus is on the mechanical properties of cell- and cell layer-derived forces and on the molecular level on factors responsible for gene regulation, such as transcription factors, signaling molecules, and epigenetic changes. Finally, the self-organization phenomenon is discussed as a basis for the production of retinal organoids, a promising model for a wide range of basic scientific and medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora N Grigoryan
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
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32
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Ortolan D, Sharma R, Volkov A, Maminishkis A, Hotaling NA, Huryn LA, Cukras C, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Bharti K. Single-cell-resolution map of human retinal pigment epithelium helps discover subpopulations with differential disease sensitivity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2117553119. [PMID: 35522714 PMCID: PMC9171647 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2117553119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Regional phenotypic and functional differences in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) monolayer have been suggested to account for regional susceptibility in ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), late-onset retinal degeneration (L-ORD), and choroideremia (CHM). However, a comprehensive description of human topographical RPE diversity is not yet available, thus limiting the understanding of regional RPE diversity and degenerative disease sensitivity in the eye. To develop a complete morphometric RPE map of the human eye, artificial intelligence–based software was trained to recognize, segment, and analyze RPE borders. Five statistically different, concentric RPE subpopulations (P1 to P5) were identified using cell area as a parameter, including a subpopulation (P4) with cell area comparable to that of macular cells in the far periphery of the eye. This work provides a complete reference map of human RPE subpopulations and their location in the eye. In addition, the analysis of cadaver non-AMD and AMD eyes and ultra-widefield fundus images of patients revealed differential vulnerability of the five RPE subpopulations to different retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ortolan
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Andrei Volkov
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Arvydas Maminishkis
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Nathan A. Hotaling
- Information Resources Technology Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Laryssa A. Huryn
- Ophthalmic Clinical Genetics Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Catherine Cukras
- Unit on Clinical Investigation of Retinal Disease, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
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33
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Rai D, Iwanami M, Takahashi Y, Komuta Y, Aoi N, Umezawa A, Seko Y. Evaluation of photoreceptor-directed fibroblasts derived from retinitis pigmentosa patients with defects in the EYS gene: a possible cost-effective cellular model for mechanism-oriented drug. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:157. [PMID: 35410372 PMCID: PMC8996485 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02827-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The most common gene responsible for autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is EYS. The manner of decay of genetically defective EYS gene transcripts varies depending on the type of mutation using our cellular model, which consists of induced photoreceptor-directed fibroblasts from EYS-RP patients (EYS-RP cells). However, disease-specific profiles have not been clarified in EYS-RP cells. Herein we investigated comprehensive gene expression patterns and restoration of altered expression by low molecular weight molecules in EYS-RP cells.
Methods Using induced photoreceptor-like cells by CRX, RAX, NeuroD, and OTX2, we employed qRT-PCR and DNA microarray analysis to compare expression levels of disease-related genes in EYS-RP cells. We investigated the effect of antiapoptotic or anti-endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress/antioxidant reagents on the restoration of altered gene expression. Results Expression levels of phototransduction-related genes (blue opsin, rhodopsin, S-antigen, GNAT1, GNAT2) were lower in EYS-RP cells. CRYGD was extracted by global gene expression analysis, as a downregulated, retina-related and apoptosis-, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress- or aging-related gene. Pathway enrichment analysis suggested that “complement and coagulation cascades,” “ECM-receptor interaction” and “PI3K-Akt signaling pathway” could be involved in EYS-RP-associated pathogenesis. Among the matching/overlapping genes involved in those pathways, F2R was suggested as an EYS-RP-associated gene. The downregulation of CRYGD and F2R was completely restored by additional 4-PBA, an inhibitor of ER stress, and partially restored by metformin or NAC. In addition, 4-PBA normalized the expression level of cleaved caspase-3. Conclusions Our cellular model may reflect the ER stress-mediated degenerative retina and serve as a pathogenesis-oriented cost-effective rescue strategy for RP patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02827-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip Rai
- Sensory Functions Section, Research Institute, National Rehabilitation Center for Persons With Disabilities, 4-1 Namiki, Tokorozawa, 359-8555, Japan
| | - Masaki Iwanami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital, National Rehabilitation Center for Persons With Disabilities, 4-1 Namiki, Tokorozawa, 359-8555, Japan.,Iwanami Eye Clinic, 7-1-3, Tsuchihashi, Miyamae-ku Kawasaki, Tokyo, 216-0005, Japan
| | - Yoriko Takahashi
- Bioscience and Healthcare Engineering Division, Mitsui Knowledge Industry Co., Ltd., 2-7-14 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo, 164-8555, Japan
| | - Yukari Komuta
- Sensory Functions Section, Research Institute, National Rehabilitation Center for Persons With Disabilities, 4-1 Namiki, Tokorozawa, 359-8555, Japan.,Division of Bioinformation and Therapeutic Systems, National Defense Medical College, 3 Namiki, Tokorozawa, 359-0042, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Aoi
- Department of Plastic, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1 Kaga, Itabashi, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan.,Miyamasuzaka Clinic, SK Aoyama Bldg. 5F, 1-6-5 Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0002, Japan
| | - Akihiro Umezawa
- National Center for Child Health and Development, Research Institute, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Yuko Seko
- Sensory Functions Section, Research Institute, National Rehabilitation Center for Persons With Disabilities, 4-1 Namiki, Tokorozawa, 359-8555, Japan.
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Dezfuly AR, Safaee A, Amirpour N, Kazemi M, Ramezani A, Jafarinia M, Dehghani A, Salehi H. Therapeutic effects of human adipose mesenchymal stem cells and their paracrine agents on sodium iodate induced retinal degeneration in rats. Life Sci 2022; 300:120570. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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35
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Covello G, Ibrahim GH, Bacchi N, Casarosa S, Denti MA. Exon Skipping Through Chimeric Antisense U1 snRNAs to Correct Retinitis Pigmentosa GTPase-Regulator ( RPGR) Splice Defect. Nucleic Acid Ther 2022; 32:333-349. [PMID: 35166581 PMCID: PMC9416563 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2021.0053] [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 dystrophies are caused by mutations in more than 250 genes, each of them carrying several types of mutations that can lead to different clinical phenotypes. Mutations in Retinitis Pigmentosa GTPase-Regulator (RPGR) cause X-linked Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A nucleotide substitution in intron 9 of RPGR causes the increase of an alternatively spliced isoform of the mature mRNA, bearing exon 9a (E9a). This introduces a stop codon, leading to truncation of the protein. Aiming at restoring impaired gene expression, we developed an antisense RNA-based therapeutic approach for the skipping of RPGR E9a. We designed a set of specific U1 antisense snRNAs (U1_asRNAs) and tested their efficacy in vitro, upon transient cotransfection with RPGR minigene reporter systems in HEK-293T, 661W, and PC-12 cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Covello
- RNA Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Gehan H Ibrahim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Niccolò Bacchi
- RNA Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Simona Casarosa
- Neural Development and Regeneration Laboratory, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,Centre for Medical Science - CIS Med, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,CNR Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michela Alessandra Denti
- RNA Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,CNR Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
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36
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Small molecule LATS kinase inhibitors block the Hippo signaling pathway and promote cell growth under 3D culture conditions. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101779. [PMID: 35231442 PMCID: PMC8988011 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although 3D cell culture models are considered to reflect the physiological microenvironment and exhibit high concordance with in vivo conditions, one disadvantage has been that cell proliferation is slower in 3D culture as compared to 2D culture. However, the signaling differences that lead to this slower proliferation are unclear. Here, we conducted a cell-based high-throughput screening study and identified novel small molecules that promote cell proliferation, particularly under 3D conditions. We found that one of these molecules, designated GA-017, increases the number and size of spheroids of various cell-types in both scaffold-based and scaffold-independent cultures. In addition, GA-017 also enhances the ex vivo formation of mouse intestinal organoids. Importantly, we demonstrate that GA-017 inhibits the serine/threonine protein kinases large tumor suppressor kinase 1/2, which phosphorylate Yes-associated protein and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif , key effectors of the growth- and proliferation-regulating Hippo signaling pathway. We showed that GA-017 facilitates the growth of spheroids and organoids by stabilizing and translocating Yes-associated protein and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif into the cell nucleus. Another chemical analog of GA-017 obtained in this screening also exhibited similar activities and functions. We conclude that experiments with these small molecule large tumor suppressor kinase inhibitors will contribute to further development of efficient 3D culture systems for the ex vivo expansion of spheroids and organoids.
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Zhang X, Wang W, Jin ZB. Retinal organoids as models for development and diseases. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2021; 10:33. [PMID: 34719743 PMCID: PMC8557999 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-021-00097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids (ROs) has brought remarkable opportunities for developmental studies while also presenting new therapeutic avenues for retinal diseases. With a clear understanding of how well these models mimic native retinas, such preclinical models may be crucial tools that are widely used for the more efficient translation of studies into novel treatment strategies for retinal diseases. Genetic modifications or patient-derived ROs can allow these models to simulate the physical microenvironments of the actual disease process. However, we are currently at the beginning of the three-dimensional (3D) RO era, and a general quantitative technology for analyzing ROs derived from numerous differentiation protocols is still missing. Continued efforts to improve the efficiency and stability of differentiation, as well as understanding the disparity between the artificial retina and the native retina and advancing the current treatment strategies, will be essential in ensuring that these scientific advances can benefit patients with retinal disease. Herein, we briefly discuss RO differentiation protocols, the current applications of RO as a disease model and the treatments for retinal diseases by using RO modeling, to have a clear view of the role of current ROs in retinal development and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China.
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38
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German OL, Vallese-Maurizi H, Soto TB, Rotstein NP, Politi LE. Retina stem cells, hopes and obstacles. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1446-1479. [PMID: 34786153 PMCID: PMC8567457 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i10.1446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a major contributor to visual dysfunction worldwide. Although it comprises several eye diseases, loss of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and photoreceptor cells are the major contributors to their pathogenesis. Early therapies included diverse treatments, such as provision of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and many survival and trophic factors that, in some cases, slow down the progression of the degeneration, but do not effectively prevent it. The finding of stem cells (SC) in the eye has led to the proposal of cell replacement strategies for retina degeneration. Therapies using different types of SC, such as retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), embryonic SC, pluripotent SCs (PSCs), induced PSCs (iPSCs), and mesenchymal stromal cells, capable of self-renewal and of differentiating into multiple cell types, have gained ample support. Numerous preclinical studies have assessed transplantation of SC in animal models, with encouraging results. The aim of this work is to revise the different preclinical and clinical approaches, analyzing the SC type used, their efficacy, safety, cell attachment and integration, absence of tumor formation and immunorejection, in order to establish which were the most relevant and successful. In addition, we examine the questions and concerns still open in the field. The data demonstrate the existence of two main approaches, aimed at replacing either RPE cells or photoreceptors. Emerging evidence suggests that RPCs and iPSC are the best candidates, presenting no ethical concerns and a low risk of immunorejection. Clinical trials have already supported the safety and efficacy of SC treatments. Serious concerns are pending, such as the risk of tumor formation, lack of attachment or integration of transplanted cells into host retinas, immunorejection, cell death, and also ethical. However, the amazing progress in the field in the last few years makes it possible to envisage safe and effective treatments to restore vision loss in a near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga L German
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Harmonie Vallese-Maurizi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tamara B Soto
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nora P Rotstein
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahia blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis Enrique Politi
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Pharmacy, Universidad Nacional del Sur, and Neurobiology Department, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (INIBIBB) Conicet, Bahía Blanca 8000, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Stone NE, Voigt AP, Mullins RF, Sulchek T, Tucker BA. Microfluidic processing of stem cells for autologous cell replacement. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:1384-1393. [PMID: 34156760 PMCID: PMC8459636 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.21-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autologous photoreceptor cell replacement is one of the most promising approaches currently under development for the treatment of inherited retinal degenerative blindness. Unlike endogenous stem cell populations, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be differentiated into both rod and cone photoreceptors in high numbers, making them ideal for this application. That said, in addition to photoreceptor cells, state of the art retinal differentiation protocols give rise to all of the different cell types of the normal retina, the majority of which are not required and may in fact hinder successful photoreceptor cell replacement. As such, following differentiation photoreceptor cell enrichment will likely be required. In addition, to prevent the newly generated photoreceptor cells from suffering the same fate as the patient's original cells, correction of the patient's disease-causing genetic mutations will be necessary. In this review we discuss literature pertaining to the use of different cell sorting and transfection approaches with a focus on the development and use of novel next generation microfluidic devices. We will discuss how gold standard strategies have been used, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and how novel microfluidic platforms can be incorporated into the clinical manufacturing pipeline to reduce the complexity, cost, and regulatory burden associated with clinical grade production of photoreceptor cells for autologous cell replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E. Stone
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Andrew P. Voigt
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of MedicineUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Robert F. Mullins
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of MedicineUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Todd Sulchek
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Budd A. Tucker
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of MedicineUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
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40
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Approaches to Optimize Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocyte Maturation and Function. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-021-00197-3] [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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41
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Retinal Organoid Technology: Where Are We Now? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910244. [PMID: 34638582 PMCID: PMC8549701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is difficult to regenerate mammalian retinal cells once the adult retina is damaged, and current clinical approaches to retinal damages are very limited. The introduction of the retinal organoid technique empowers researchers to study the molecular mechanisms controlling retinal development, explore the pathogenesis of retinal diseases, develop novel treatment options, and pursue cell/tissue transplantation under a certain genetic background. Here, we revisit the historical background of retinal organoid technology, categorize current methods of organoid induction, and outline the obstacles and potential solutions to next-generation retinal organoids. Meanwhile, we recapitulate recent research progress in cell/tissue transplantation to treat retinal diseases, and discuss the pros and cons of transplanting single-cell suspension versus retinal organoid sheet for cell therapies.
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42
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Ahmed I, Johnston RJ, Singh MS. Pluripotent stem cell therapy for retinal diseases. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1279. [PMID: 34532416 PMCID: PMC8421932 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), which include human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), have been used to study development of disease processes, and as potential therapies in multiple organ systems. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of PSC-based transplantation to treat disorders of the retina in which retinal cells have been functionally damaged or lost through degeneration. The retina, which consists of neuronal tissue, provides an excellent system to test the therapeutic utility of PSC-based transplantation due to its accessibility and the availability of high-resolution imaging technology to evaluate effects. Preclinical trials in animal models of retinal diseases have shown improvement in visual outcomes following subretinal transplantation of PSC-derived photoreceptors or retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. This review focuses on preclinical studies and clinical trials exploring the use of PSCs for retinal diseases. To date, several phase I/II clinical trials in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease (STGD1) have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of PSC-derived RPE transplantation. Additional phase I/II clinical trials using PSC-derived RPE or photoreceptor cells for the treatment of AMD, STGD1, and also retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are currently in the pipeline. As this field continues to evolve, additional technologies may enhance PSC-derived cell transplantation through gene-editing of autologous cells, transplantation of more complex cellular structures such as organoids, and monitoring of transplanted cells through novel imaging technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishrat Ahmed
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Mandeep S Singh
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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43
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Tagawa M, Ikeda HO, Hata M, Inoue Y, Iwai S, Tsujikawa A. A Protocol for Stepwise Differentiation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells into Retinal Pigment Epithelium. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2549:307-320. [PMID: 34490595 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2021_418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We have established a stepwise method to differentiate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) (iPSC-RPE), which enables efficient isolation and purification of patient-derived iPSC-RPE cells with high quality. Here, we describe in detail the process of differentiating iPSCs into iPSC-RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Tagawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hanako Ohashi Ikeda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Hata
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yumi Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sachiko Iwai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akitaka Tsujikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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44
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Baek SK, Jeon SB, Seo BG, Hwangbo C, Shin KC, Choi JW, An CS, Jeong MA, Kim TS, Lee JH. The Presence or Absence of Alkaline Phosphatase Activity to Discriminate Pluripotency Characteristics in Porcine Epiblast Stem Cell-Like Cells. Cell Reprogram 2021; 23:221-238. [PMID: 34227846 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2021.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Porcine embryonic stem cells (pESCs) would provide potentials for agricultural- and biotechnological-related applications. However, authentic pESCs have not been established yet because standards for porcine stem cell-specific markers and culture conditions are not clear. Therefore, the present study reports attempts to derive pluripotent epiblast stem cells either from in vitro or in vivo derived porcine embryos. Nine epiblast cell lines (seven lines from Berkshire and two lines from Duroc) could only be isolated from day 9- to 9.5-old in vivo derived early conceptuses. Pluripotency features were analyzed in relation to the presence or absence of alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity. Interestingly, the mRNA expression of several marker genes for pluripotency or epiblast was different between putative epiblast stem cells of the two groups [AP-positive (+) pEpiSC-like cell 2 line and AP-negative (-) pEpiSC-like cell 8 line]. For example, expressions of OCT-3/4, NANOG, SOX2, c-MYC, FGF2, and NODAL in AP-negative (-) porcine epiblast stem cell (pEpiSC)-like cells were higher than those in AP-positive (+) pEpiSC-like cells. Expression of surface markers differed between the two groups to some extent. SSEA-1 was strongly expressed only in AP-negative (-) pEpiSC-like cells, whereas AP-positive (+) pEpiSC-like cells did not express. In addition, we report to have some differences in the in vitro differentiation capacity between AP-positive (+) and AP-negative (-) epiblast cell lines. Primary embryonic germ layer markers (cardiac actin, nestin, and GATA 6) and primordial germ cell markers (Dazl and Vasa) were strongly expressed in embryoid bodies (EBs) aggregated from AP-negative (-) pEpiSC-like cells, whereas EBs aggregated from AP-positive (+) pEpiSCs did not show expression of primary embryonic germ layers and primordial germ cell markers except GATA 6. These results indicate that pEpiSC-like cells display different pluripotency characteristics in relation to AP activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Ki Baek
- Department of Animal Bioscience, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Been Jeon
- Department of Animal Bioscience, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Gyeong Seo
- Division of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol Hwangbo
- Division of Life Science, College of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Keum-Chul Shin
- Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Forest Environmental Resources, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Woo Choi
- College of Animal Life Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Seop An
- Gyeongsangnamdo Livestock Experiment Station, Sancheong, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Ae Jeong
- Gyeongsangnamdo Livestock Experiment Station, Sancheong, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Suk Kim
- Department of Animal Bioscience, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Hee Lee
- Department of Animal Bioscience, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
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45
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Mullin NK, Voigt AP, Cooke JA, Bohrer LR, Burnight ER, Stone EM, Mullins RF, Tucker BA. Patient derived stem cells for discovery and validation of novel pathogenic variants in inherited retinal disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100918. [PMID: 33130253 PMCID: PMC8559964 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of inherited retinal disease has benefited immensely from molecular genetic analysis over the past several decades. New technologies that allow for increasingly detailed examination of a patient's DNA have expanded the catalog of genes and specific variants that cause retinal disease. In turn, the identification of pathogenic variants has allowed the development of gene therapies and low-cost, clinically focused genetic testing. Despite this progress, a relatively large fraction (at least 20%) of patients with clinical features suggestive of an inherited retinal disease still do not have a molecular diagnosis today. Variants that are not obviously disruptive to the codon sequence of exons can be difficult to distinguish from the background of benign human genetic variations. Some of these variants exert their pathogenic effect not by altering the primary amino acid sequence, but by modulating gene expression, isoform splicing, or other transcript-level mechanisms. While not discoverable by DNA sequencing methods alone, these variants are excellent targets for studies of the retinal transcriptome. In this review, we present an overview of the current state of pathogenic variant discovery in retinal disease and identify some of the remaining barriers. We also explore the utility of new technologies, specifically patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based modeling, in further expanding the catalog of disease-causing variants using transcriptome-focused methods. Finally, we outline bioinformatic analysis techniques that will allow this new method of variant discovery in retinal disease. As the knowledge gleaned from previous technologies is informing targets for therapies today, we believe that integrating new technologies, such as iPSC-based modeling, into the molecular diagnosis pipeline will enable a new wave of variant discovery and expanded treatment of inherited retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel K Mullin
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Andrew P Voigt
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jessica A Cooke
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Laura R Bohrer
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Erin R Burnight
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Edwin M Stone
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- The Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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46
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Madrid M, Sumen C, Aivio S, Saklayen N. Autologous Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Cell Therapies: Promise, Progress, and Challenges. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e88. [PMID: 33725407 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The promise of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) lies in their ability to serve as a starting material for autologous, or patient-specific, stem cell-based therapies. Since the first publications describing the generation of iPSCs from human tissue in 2007, a Phase I/IIa clinical trial testing an autologous iPSC-derived cell therapy has been initiated in the U.S., and several other autologous iPSC-based therapies have advanced through various stages of development. Three single-patient in-human transplants of autologous iPSC-derived cells have taken place worldwide. None of the patients suffered serious adverse events, despite not undergoing immunosuppression. These promising outcomes support the proposed advantage of an autologous approach: a cell therapy product that can engraft without the risk of immune rejection, eliminating the need for immunosuppression and the associated side effects. Despite this advantage, there are currently more allogeneic than autologous iPSC-based cell therapy products in development due to the cost and complexity of scaling out manufacturing for each patient. In this review, we highlight recent progress toward clinical translation of autologous iPSC-based cell therapies. We also highlight technological advancements that would reduce the cost and complexity of autologous iPSC-based cell therapy production, enabling autologous iPSC-based therapies to become a more commonplace treatment modality for patients. © 2021 The Authors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cenk Sumen
- Stemson Therapeutics, San Diego, California
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47
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Pan SH, Zhao N, Feng X, Jie Y, Jin ZB. Conversion of mouse embryonic fibroblasts into neural crest cells and functional corneal endothelia by defined small molecules. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/23/eabg5749. [PMID: 34088673 PMCID: PMC8177713 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg5749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Reprogramming of somatic cells into desired functional cell types by small molecules has vast potential for developing cell replacement therapy. Here, we developed a stepwise strategy to generate chemically induced neural crest cells (ciNCCs) and chemically induced corneal endothelial cells (ciCECs) from mouse fibroblasts using defined small molecules. The ciNCCs exhibited typical NCC features and could differentiate into ciCECs using another chemical combination in vitro. The resulting ciCECs showed consistent gene expression profiles and self-renewal capacity to those of primary CECs. Notably, these ciCECs could be cultured for as long as 30 passages and still retain the CEC features in defined medium. Transplantation of these ciCECs into an animal model reversed corneal opacity. Our chemical approach for direct reprogramming of mouse fibroblasts into ciNCCs and ciCECs provides an alternative cell source for regeneration of corneal endothelia and other tissues derived from neural crest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Hui Pan
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ning Zhao
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University and Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiang Feng
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ying Jie
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China.
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University and Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing 100730, China
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Miotti G, Parodi PC, Zeppieri M. Stem cell therapy in ocular pathologies in the past 20 years. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:366-385. [PMID: 34136071 PMCID: PMC8176844 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i5.366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies are successfully used in various fields of medicine. This new approach of research is also expanding in ophthalmology. Huge investments, resources and important clinical trials have been performed in stem cell research and in potential therapies. In recent years, great strides have been made in genetic research, which permitted and enhanced the differentiation of stem cells. Moreover, the possibility of exploiting stem cells from other districts (such as adipose, dental pulp, bone marrow stem cells, etc.) for the treatment of ophthalmic diseases, renders this topic fascinating. Furthermore, great strides have been made in biomedical engineering, which have proposed new materials and three-dimensional structures useful for cell therapy of the eye. The encouraging results obtained on clinical trials conducted on animals have given a significant boost in the creation of study protocols also in humans. Results are limited to date, but clinical trials continue to evolve. Our attention is centered on the literature reported over the past 20 years, considering animal (the most represented in literature) and human clinical trials, which are limiting. The aim of our review is to present a brief overview of the main types of treatments based on stem cells in the field of ophthalmic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Miotti
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Pier Camillo Parodi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
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Fukunaga I, Oe Y, Chen C, Danzaki K, Ohta S, Koike A, Ikeda K, Kamiya K. Activin/Nodal/TGF-β Pathway Inhibitor Accelerates BMP4-Induced Cochlear Gap Junction Formation During in vitro Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:602197. [PMID: 33968919 PMCID: PMC8097046 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.602197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in gap junction beta-2 (GJB2), the gene that encodes connexin 26 (CX26), are the most frequent cause of hereditary deafness worldwide. We recently developed an in vitro model of GJB2-related deafness (induced CX26 gap junction-forming cells; iCX26GJCs) from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by using Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) signaling-based floating cultures (serum-free culture of embryoid body-like aggregates with quick aggregation cultures; hereafter, SFEBq cultures) and adherent cultures. However, to use these cells as a disease model platform for high-throughput drug screening or regenerative therapy, cell yields must be substantially increased. In addition to BMP4, other factors may also induce CX26 gap junction formation. In the SFEBq cultures, the combination of BMP4 and the Activin/Nodal/TGF-β pathway inhibitor SB431542 (SB) resulted in greater production of isolatable CX26-expressing cell mass (CX26+ vesicles) and higher Gjb2 mRNA levels than BMP4 treatment alone, suggesting that SB may promote BMP4-mediated production of CX26+ vesicles in a dose-dependent manner, thereby increasing the yield of highly purified iCX26GJCs. This is the first study to demonstrate that SB accelerates BMP4-induced iCX26GJC differentiation during stem cell floating culture. By controlling the concentration of SB supplementation in combination with CX26+ vesicle purification, large-scale production of highly purified iCX26GJCs suitable for high-throughput drug screening or regenerative therapy for GJB2-related deafness may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kazusaku Kamiya
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Limnios IJ, Chau YQ, Skabo SJ, Surrao DC, O'Neill HC. Efficient differentiation of human embryonic stem cells to retinal pigment epithelium under defined conditions. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:248. [PMID: 33883023 PMCID: PMC8058973 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02316-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a highly prevalent form of blindness caused by loss death of cells of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Transplantation of pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived RPE cells is considered a promising therapy to regenerate cell function and vision. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to develop a rapid directed differentiation method for production of RPE cells from PSC which is rapid, efficient, and fully defined and produces cells suitable for clinical use. DESIGN A protocol for cell growth and differentiation from hESCs was developed to induce differentiation through screening small molecules which regulated a primary stage of differentiation to the eyefield progenitor, and then, a subsequent set of molecules to drive differentiation to RPE cells. Methods for cell plating and maintenance have been optimized to give a homogeneous population of cells in a short 14-day period, followed by a procedure to support maturation of cell function. RESULTS We show here the efficient production of RPE cells from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) using small molecules in a feeder-free system using xeno-free/defined medium. Flow cytometry at day 14 showed ~ 90% of cells expressed the RPE markers MITF and PMEL17. Temporal gene analysis confirmed differentiation through defined cell intermediates. Mature hESC-RPE cell monolayers exhibited key morphological, molecular, and functional characteristics of the endogenous RPE. CONCLUSION This study identifies a novel cell differentiation process for rapid and efficient production of retinal RPE cells directly from hESCs. The described protocol has utility for clinical-grade cell production for human therapy to treat AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis J Limnios
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia.
| | - Yu-Qian Chau
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Stuart J Skabo
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Denver C Surrao
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia
| | - Helen C O'Neill
- Clem Jones Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, 4229, Australia.
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