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Vessey KA, Jobling AI, Greferath U, Fletcher EL. Pharmaceutical therapies targeting autophagy for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102463. [PMID: 38788268 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly. Although new therapies have recently emerged, there are currently no ways of preventing the development of the disease. Changes in intracellular recycling processes. Changes in intracellular recycling processes, called autophagy, lead to debris accumulation and cellular dysfunction in AMD models and AMD patients. Drugs that enhance autophagy hold promise as therapies for slowing AMD progression in preclinical models; however, more studies in humans are required. While a definitive cure for AMD will likely hinge on a personalized medicine approach, treatments that enhance autophagy hold promise for slowing vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstan A Vessey
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; School of Science and Technology, The University of New England, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - Andrew I Jobling
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Ursula Greferath
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Erica L Fletcher
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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Yagasaki R, Morita A, Mori A, Sakamoto K, Nakahara T. The Anti-Diabetic Drug Metformin Suppresses Pathological Retinal Angiogenesis via Blocking the mTORC1 Signaling Pathway in Mice (Metformin Suppresses Pathological Angiogenesis). Curr Eye Res 2024; 49:505-512. [PMID: 38251680 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2024.2302865] [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: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Metformin, a biguanide antihyperglycemic drug, can exert various beneficial effects in addition to its glucose-lowering effect. The effects of metformin are mainly mediated by AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent pathway. AMPK activation interferes with the action of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), and blockade of mTORC1 pathway suppresses pathological retinal angiogenesis. Therefore, in this study, we examined the effects of metformin on pathological angiogenesis and mTORC1 activity in the retinas of mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). METHODS OIR was induced by exposing the mice to 80% oxygen from postnatal day (P) 7 to P10. The OIR mice were treated with metformin, rapamycin (an inhibitor of mTORC1), or the vehicle from P10 to P12 or P14. The formation of neovascular tufts, revascularization in the central avascular areas, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 2, and phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 (pS6), a downstream indicator of mTORC1 activity, were evaluated at P10, P13, or P15. RESULTS Neovascular tufts and vascular growth in the central avascular areas were observed in the retinas of P15 OIR mice. The formation of neovascular tufts, but not the revascularization in the central avascular areas, was attenuated by metformin administration from P10 to P14. Metformin had no significant inhibitory effect on the expression of VEGF and VEGFR2, but it reduced the pS6 immunoreactivity in vascular cells at the sites of angiogenesis. Rapamycin completely blocked the phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 and markedly reduced the formation of neovascular tufts. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that metformin partially suppresses the formation of neovascular tufts on the retinal surface by blocking the mTORC1 signaling pathway. Metformin may exert beneficial effects against the progression of ocular diseases in which abnormal angiogenesis is associated with the pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Yagasaki
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asami Mori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
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3
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Nakano A, Morita A, Arima S, Nagamitsu T, Nakahara T. Role of mammalian target of rapamycin in the formation and progression of retinopathy of prematurity-like vascular abnormalities in neonatal rats. Microvasc Res 2024; 152:104626. [PMID: 37963514 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2023.104626] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a retinal disease that can occur in premature infants, can lead to severe visual impairment. In this study, we examined the preventive and therapeutic effects of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibition on abnormal retinal blood vessels in a rat model of ROP. To induce ROP-like vascular abnormalities, rats were subcutaneously treated with KRN633, an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase, on postnatal day 7 (P7) and P8. KRN633-treated (ROP) rats were treated subcutaneously with the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin according to preventive and therapeutic protocols, i.e., from P11 to P13 (P11-P13) and from P14 to P20 (P14-P20), respectively. To compare with the effects of VEGF inhibition, KRN633 was administered according to similar protocols. Changes in retinal vasculature, phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 (pS6), a downstream indicator of mTORC1 activity, and the proliferative status of vascular cells were evaluated at P14 and P21 using immunohistochemistry. Rapamycin treatment from P11 to P13 prevented increases in arteriolar tortuosity, capillary density, and the number of proliferating vascular cells, and eliminated pS6 immunoreactivity in ROP rats. KRN633 treatment at P11 and P12 (P11/P12) also prevented the appearance of ROP-like retinal blood vessels. Rapamycin treatment from P14 to P20 failed to attenuate arteriolar tortuosity but prevented increases in capillary density and proliferating vascular cell number at the vascular front, but not at the central zone. KRN633 treatment from P14 to P20 significantly reduced abnormalities in the retinal vasculature; however, the effects were inferior to those of KRN633 treatment on P11/P12. These results suggest that activation of the mTORC1 pathway in proliferating endothelial cells contributes to the appearance and progression of ROP-like retinal blood vessels. Therefore, inhibition of mTORC1 may be a promising approach for selectively targeting abnormal retinal blood vessels in ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayuki Nakano
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Shiho Arima
- Department of Organic Synthesis, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Tohru Nagamitsu
- Department of Organic Synthesis, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan.
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Zhou X, Lai Y, Xu X, Wang Q, Sun L, Chen L, Li J, Li R, Luo D, Lin Y, Ding X. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acids inhibit pathological neovascularization and vaso-obliteration in ischaemic retinopathy via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13407. [PMID: 36694349 PMCID: PMC10334269 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13407] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effect and the molecular mechanism of tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs), a novel self-assembled nanomaterial with excellent biocompatibility and superior endocytosis ability, in inhibition of pathological retinal neovascularization (RNV) and more importantly, in amelioration of vaso-obliteration (VO) in ischaemic retinopathy. tFNAs were synthesized from four single-stranded DNAs (ssDNAs). Cell proliferation, wound healing and tube formation assays were performed to explore cellular angiogenic functions in vitro. The effects of tFNAs on reducing angiogenesis and inhibiting VO were explored by oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model in vivo. In vitro, tFNAs were capable to enter endothelial cells (ECs), inhibit cell proliferation, tube formation and migration under hypoxic conditions. In vivo, tFNAs successfully reduce RNV and inhibit VO in OIR model via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/S6K pathway, while vascular endothelial growth factor fusion protein, Aflibercept, could reduce RNV but not inhibit VO. This study provides a theoretical basis for the further understanding of RNV and suggests that tFNAs might be a novel promising candidate for the treatment of blind-causing RNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Yanting Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Xiaoxiao Xu
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and PharmacyChengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Qiong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Limei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Limei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
| | - Jiajie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Stomatological HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Rong Li
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and PharmacyChengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Delun Luo
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and PharmacyChengdu University of Traditional Chinese MedicineChengduChina
| | - Yunfeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Stomatological HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual ScienceGuangzhouChina
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Starr MR, Dalvin LA, AbouChehade JE, Damento GM, Garcia M, Shah SM, Hodge DO, Iezzi R, Bakri SJ. Incidence of metformin use in patients with age-related macular degeneration versus normal controls: A population-based study in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:1861-1865. [PMID: 36151313 PMCID: PMC10275985 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02245-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to compare the use of metformin in patients with both exudative and non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) versus control populations. DESIGN Retrospective review of three age- and sex-matched cohorts from 1/1/2004 to 12/31/2013: patients with exudative AMD, a cohort of dry AMD patients, and a cohort of patients without AMD. The primary endpoint was the incidence of metformin use in all of the cohorts. RESULTS There were 1512 patients, with 504 in each of the three cohorts. There was no difference in the prevalence of diabetes between cohorts. Compared to patients with dry AMD, patients with no AMD had increased likelihood of metformin use (p = 0.0168, OR 1.66 (1.09-2.51). There was no difference in the likelihood of metformin use between exudative AMD patients and non-AMD controls. CONCLUSIONS There appears to be an increased incidence of metformin use in patients without AMD compared to patients with dry AMD. Metformin's current role in the treatment of anti-aging diseases makes it a plausible target for use in the treatment of AMD, particularly dry AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Starr
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Lauren A Dalvin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jackson E AbouChehade
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Gena M Damento
- Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Maria Garcia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Saumya M Shah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - David O Hodge
- Department of Health Sciences Research/Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Rd S, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Raymond Iezzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Sophie J Bakri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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CircRNA Uxs1/miR-335-5p/PGF axis regulates choroidal neovascularization via the mTOR/p70 S6k pathway. Transl Res 2023; 256:41-55. [PMID: 36690073 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the elderly population. Neovascular AMD is the late stage, characterized by choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Non-coding RNAs have been implicated in CNV; however, the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) has not yet been elucidated. Herein, we comprehensively investigated circRNA profiles in laser-induced CNV mouse models and patient specimens. A novel circRNA, circRNA Uxs1, was identified, and its function in CNV regulation was investigated in the present study. CircRNA Uxs1 was consistently upregulated in CNV patient specimens and CNV mouse models. Knockdown of circRNA Uxs1 interrupted the tube formation, migration, and proliferation of endothelial cells in vitro. Silencing circRNA Uxs1 in vivo alleviated neovascularization formation, as shown by the decreased size of laser spots. Mechanistically, circRNA Uxs1 functioned by binding to miR-335-5p, which further upregulated the expression of placental growth factor (PGF) gene and activated the mammalian target of rapamycin/p70 S6 Kinase (mTOR/p70 S6k) pathway. By subretinal injections of adeno-associated virus (AAV), we demonstrated the anti-angiogenic function of circRNA Uxs1 knockdown in vivo. In conclusion, circRNA Uxs1 promoted CNV by sponging miR-335-5p, which stimulated PGF expression and subsequently activated the mTOR/p70 S6k pathway. Therefore, circRNA Uxs1 may serve as a promising therapeutic target for CNV.
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Rowe LW, Minturn RJ, Burgett LA, Bracha P, Maturi RK. Intravitreal sirolimus with adjunct aflibercept versus aflibercept monotherapy for persistent, exudative age-related macular degeneration: a pilot study. Int J Retina Vitreous 2023; 9:1. [PMID: 36604756 PMCID: PMC9814330 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-022-00437-6] [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: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the safety and efficacy of intravitreal sirolimus and adjunct aflibercept in subjects with persistent, exudative age-related macular degeneration despite previous intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment. METHODS This institutional review board approved, registered (NCT02732899), prospective, subject-masked, single center, randomized controlled trial in subjects with persistent, exudative age-related macular degeneration compared alternating monthly intravitreal sirolimus and aflibercept (combination) versus aflibercept monotherapy (control) every 2 months over the course of 36 weeks. The primary measure of efficacy in the study was the mean change in central subfield thickness. RESULTS 20 subjects were enrolled in the study, with 10 subjects assigned to each treatment group. Subjects had an average of 38 previous anti-VEGF injections. Mean central subfield thickness decreased in the combination group by 54.0 μm compared to 0.1 μm in the control group (p = 0.28). Mean visual acuity improved in the combination group by 2.5 ETDRS letters versus 0.8 ETDRS letters in the control group (p = 0.42). There were no serious ocular adverse events in either group; however, there were three serious systemic events in the combination group, including hospitalizations due to pancreatitis, pneumonia, and worsening hypertension. CONCLUSION There was no statistically significant difference in the mean central subfield thickness change between the combination and control groups. However, intravitreal sirolimus with adjunct aflibercept did appear to have potential anatomical benefits as a treatment for persistent, exudative age-related macular degeneration and requires further investigation with a larger cohort to better understand the potential risks and benefits. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02732899. Registered 11 March 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02732899 . This trial was approved by the institutional review board at Advarra. Funding was provided by an investigator-initiated grant from Santen. Santen played no role in the design or implementation of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas W. Rowe
- grid.257413.60000 0001 2287 3919Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 10300 N Illinois St, Suite 1060, Indianapolis, IN 46290 USA
| | - Robert J. Minturn
- grid.257413.60000 0001 2287 3919Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 10300 N Illinois St, Suite 1060, Indianapolis, IN 46290 USA
| | - Lauren A. Burgett
- grid.26009.3d0000 0004 1936 7961Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC USA
| | - Peter Bracha
- grid.433863.90000 0004 0444 7934Wolfe Eye Clinic, West Des Moines, IA USA
| | - Raj K. Maturi
- grid.257413.60000 0001 2287 3919Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 10300 N Illinois St, Suite 1060, Indianapolis, IN 46290 USA ,grid.419827.10000 0004 0613 9409Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN USA
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Essential Role of Multi-Omics Approaches in the Study of Retinal Vascular Diseases. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010103. [PMID: 36611897 PMCID: PMC9818611 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal vascular disease is a highly prevalent vision-threatening ocular disease in the global population; however, its exact mechanism remains unclear. The expansion of omics technologies has revolutionized a new medical research methodology that combines multiple omics data derived from the same patients to generate multi-dimensional and multi-evidence-supported holistic inferences, providing unprecedented opportunities to elucidate the information flow of complex multi-factorial diseases. In this review, we summarize the applications of multi-omics technology to further elucidate the pathogenesis and complex molecular mechanisms underlying retinal vascular diseases. Moreover, we proposed multi-omics-based biomarker and therapeutic strategy discovery methodologies to optimize clinical and basic medicinal research approaches to retinal vascular diseases. Finally, the opportunities, current challenges, and future prospects of multi-omics analyses in retinal vascular disease studies are discussed in detail.
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Fu Z, Nilsson AK, Hellstrom A, Smith LEH. Retinopathy of prematurity: Metabolic risk factors. eLife 2022; 11:e80550. [PMID: 36420952 PMCID: PMC9691009 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
At preterm birth, the retina is incompletely vascularized. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is initiated by the postnatal suppression of physiological retinal vascular development that would normally occur in utero. As the neural retina slowly matures, increasing metabolic demand including in the peripheral avascular retina, leads to signals for compensatory but pathological neovascularization. Currently, only late neovascular ROP is treated. ROP could be prevented by promoting normal vascular growth. Early perinatal metabolic dysregulation is a strong but understudied risk factor for ROP and other long-term sequelae of preterm birth. We will discuss the metabolic and oxygen needs of retina, current treatments, and potential interventions to promote normal vessel growth including control of postnatal hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and hyperoxia-induced retinal metabolic alterations. Early supplementation of missing nutrients and growth factors and control of supplemental oxygen promotes physiological retinal development. We will discuss the current knowledge gap in retinal metabolism after preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjie Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Anders K Nilsson
- The Sahlgrenska Centre for Pediatric Ophthalmology Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Ann Hellstrom
- The Sahlgrenska Centre for Pediatric Ophthalmology Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Lois EH Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
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Emerging role of long non-coding RNAs in endothelial dysfunction and their molecular mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 145:112421. [PMID: 34798473 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are the novel class of transcripts involved in transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational regulation of physiology and the pathology of diseases. Studies have evidenced that the impairment of endothelium is a critical event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its complications. Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by an imbalance in vasodilation and vasoconstriction, oxidative stress, proinflammatory factors, and nitric oxide bioavailability. Disruption of the endothelial barrier permeability, the first step in developing atherosclerotic lesions is a consequence of endothelial dysfunction. Though several factors interfere with the normal functioning of the endothelium, intrinsic epigenetic mechanisms governing endothelial function are regulated by lncRNAs and perturbations contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease. This review comprehensively addresses the biogenesis of lncRNA and molecular mechanisms underlying and regulation in endothelial function. An insight correlating lncRNAs and endothelial dysfunction-associated diseases can positively impact the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in endothelial dysfunction-associated diseases and treatment strategies.
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11
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Tomita Y, Usui-Ouchi A, Nilsson AK, Yang J, Ko M, Hellström A, Fu Z. Metabolism in Retinopathy of Prematurity. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1119. [PMID: 34832995 PMCID: PMC8620873 DOI: 10.3390/life11111119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity is defined as retinal abnormalities that occur during development as a consequence of disturbed oxygen conditions and nutrient supply after preterm birth. Both neuronal maturation and retinal vascularization are impaired, leading to the compensatory but uncontrolled retinal neovessel growth. Current therapeutic interventions target the hypoxia-induced neovessels but negatively impact retinal neurons and normal vessels. Emerging evidence suggests that metabolic disturbance is a significant and underexplored risk factor in the disease pathogenesis. Hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia correlate with the retinal neurovascular dysfunction in infants born prematurely. Nutritional and hormonal supplementation relieve metabolic stress and improve retinal maturation. Here we focus on the mechanisms through which metabolism is involved in preterm-birth-related retinal disorder from clinical and experimental investigations. We will review and discuss potential therapeutic targets through the restoration of metabolic responses to prevent disease development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Tomita
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.T.); (J.Y.); (M.K.)
| | - Ayumi Usui-Ouchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba 279-0021, Japan;
| | - Anders K. Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 19 Gothenburg, Sweden; (A.K.N.); (A.H.)
| | - Jay Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.T.); (J.Y.); (M.K.)
| | - Minji Ko
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.T.); (J.Y.); (M.K.)
| | - Ann Hellström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 19 Gothenburg, Sweden; (A.K.N.); (A.H.)
| | - Zhongjie Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Y.T.); (J.Y.); (M.K.)
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12
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Siddiqui AM, Oswald D, Papamichalopoulos S, Kelly D, Summer P, Polzin M, Hakim J, Schmeichel AM, Chen B, Yaszemski MJ, Windebank AJ, Madigan NN. Defining Spatial Relationships Between Spinal Cord Axons and Blood Vessels in Hydrogel Scaffolds. Tissue Eng Part A 2021; 27:648-664. [PMID: 33764164 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Positively charged oligo(poly(ethylene glycol) fumarate) (OPF+) hydrogel scaffolds, implanted into a complete transection spinal cord injury (SCI), facilitate a permissive regenerative environment and provide a platform for controlled observation of repair mechanisms. Axonal regeneration after SCI is critically dependent upon nutrients and oxygen from a newly formed blood supply. Our objective was to investigate fundamental characteristics of revascularization in association with the ingrowth of axons into hydrogel scaffolds, thereby defining spatial relationships between axons and the neovasculature. A novel combination of stereologic estimates and precision image analysis techniques quantitate neurovascular regeneration in rats. Multichannel hydrogel scaffolds containing Matrigel-only (MG), Schwann cells (SCs), or SCs with rapamycin-eluting poly(lactic co-glycolic acid) microspheres (RAPA) were implanted for 6 weeks following complete spinal cord transection. Image analysis of 72 scaffold channels identified a total of 2494 myelinated and 4173 unmyelinated axons at 10 μm circumferential intervals centered around 708 individual blood vessel profiles. Blood vessel number, density, volume, diameter, intervessel distances, total vessel surface and cross-sectional areas, and radial diffusion distances were compared. Axon number and density, blood vessel surface area, and vessel cross-sectional areas in the SC group exceeded that in the MG and RAPA groups. Individual axons were concentrated within a concentric radius of 200-250 μm from blood vessel walls, in Gaussian distributions, which identified a peak axonal number (Mean Peak Amplitude) corresponding to defined distances (Mean Peak Distance) from each vessel, the highest concentrations of axons were relatively excluded from a 25-30 μm zone immediately adjacent to the vessel, and from vessel distances >150 μm. Higher axonal densities correlated with smaller vessel cross-sectional areas. A statistical spatial algorithm was used to generate cumulative distribution F- and G-functions of axonal distribution in the reference channel space. Axons located around blood vessels were definitively organized as clusters and were not randomly distributed. A scoring system stratifies 5 direct measurements and 12 derivative parameters influencing regeneration outcomes. By providing methods to quantify the axonal-vessel relationships, these results may refine spinal cord tissue engineering strategies to optimize the regeneration of complete neurovascular bundles in their relevant spatial relationships after SCI. Impact statement Vascular disruption and impaired neovascularization contribute critically to the poor regenerative capacity of the spinal cord after injury. In this study, hydrogel scaffolds provide a detailed model system to investigate the regeneration of spinal cord axons as they directly associate with individual blood vessels, using novel methods to define their spatial relationships and the physiologic implications of that organization. These results refine future tissue engineering strategies for spinal cord repair to optimize the re-development of complete neurovascular bundles in their relevant spatial architectures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahad M Siddiqui
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - David Oswald
- Program in Human Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Domnhall Kelly
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Priska Summer
- Program in Human Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michael Polzin
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Jeffrey Hakim
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Ann M Schmeichel
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Bingkun Chen
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
| | - Michael J Yaszemski
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, Unites States
| | | | - Nicolas N Madigan
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
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13
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Li J, Du S, Shi Y, Han J, Niu Z, Wei L, Yang P, Chen L, Tian H, Gao L. Rapamycin ameliorates corneal injury after alkali burn through methylation modification in mouse TSC1 and mTOR genes. Exp Eye Res 2020; 203:108399. [PMID: 33352197 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alkali burn to the cornea is one of the most intractable injuries to the eye due to the opacity resulting from neovascularization (NV) and fibrosis. Numerous studies have focused on studying the effect of drugs on alkali-induced corneal injury in mouse, but fewer on the involvement of alkali-induced DNA methylation and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in the mechanism of alkali-induced corneal injury. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the involvement of DNA methyltransferase 3 B-madiated DNA methylation and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling modulation in the mechanism of alkali-induced corneal injury in a mouse model. To this end, we used bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis, to study the effects of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine and 2-(4-morpholinyl)-8-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one, which inhibit methyltransferase and PI3K respectively, on DNA methylation and expression of downstream effectors of PI3K related to corneal NV, including TSC1 and mTOR genes. The results showed that, after an intraperitoneal injection of rapamycin (2 mg/kg/day) for seven days, the alkali-induced opacity and NV were remarkably decreased mainly by suppressing the infiltration of immune cells into injured corneas, angiogenesis, VEGF expression and myofibroblasts differentiation; as well as by promoting corneal cell proliferation and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. More significantly, these findings showed that epigenetic regulatory mechanisms by DNA methylation played a key role in corneal NV, including in corneal alkali burn-induced methylation modification and rapamycin-induced DNA demethylation which involved the regulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway at the protein level. The precise findings of morphological improvement and regulatory mechanisms are helpful to guide the use of rapamycin in the treatment of corneal angiogenesis induced by alkaline-burn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiande Li
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Shaobo Du
- School of Stomatology of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Yongpeng Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Jiangyuan Han
- School of Basic Medical of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Zhanyu Niu
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Li Wei
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Pengfei Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Linchi Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Huanbing Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Lan Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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14
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Zhang J, Zhu M, Ruan L, Jiang C, Yang Q, Chang Q, Huang X. Protective effects of rapamycin on the retinal vascular bed during the vaso-obliteration phase in mouse oxygen-induced retinopathy model. FASEB J 2020; 34:15822-15836. [PMID: 33103304 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001295r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vision-threatening disorder characterized with retinal vaso-obliteration in phase 1 and pathological neovascularization (NV) in phase 2. However, there has been no effective and safe treatment for ROP. Current management is mainly focused on the reduction of abnormal NV in phase 2, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is the first-line treatment, yet, with great risks of late recurrence and systemic side effects. It has been reported that the severity of vaso-obliteration in phase 1 largely influences subsequent NV, suggesting that it may be a promising target to develop novel treatments for ROP. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential and safety of early rapamycin intervention in treating phase 1 ROP and possible underlying mechanisms using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). We found that intravitreal injection of rapamycin at postnatal day 7 (P7) significantly reduced retinal avascular area, increased vascular density, and reversed the suppression of deep capillaries development in phase 1 of OIR mice. Rapamycin treatment not only reduced vascular apoptosis, but also promoted proliferation and tip cell functions. Additionally, rapamycin did not interfere with normal retinal vascular development. Further investigation showed that Ang1/Tie2 pathway might be involved in rapamycin's vascular protection in phase 1 OIR retinas. Moreover, early rapamycin treatment at P7 had long-term protective effects of reducing retinal NV and avascular area, as well as enhancing vascular maturity in phase 2 of OIR mice. Together, our data suggest that rapamycin may be a safe and promising strategy for early intervention of ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Ruan
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Jiang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Chang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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15
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Lee SHS, Chang H, Kim JH, Kim HJ, Choi JS, Chung S, Woo HN, Lee KJ, Park K, Lee JY, Lee H. Inhibition of mTOR via an AAV-Delivered shRNA Tested in a Rat OIR Model as a Potential Antiangiogenic Gene Therapy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:45. [PMID: 32106292 PMCID: PMC7329967 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.2.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Recent studies have shown that inhibitors of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) play important roles in proliferating endothelial cells within the retinal vasculature. Here we explore the effects of inhibiting mTOR as a potential gene therapeutic against pathological retinal angiogenesis in a rat model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Methods Sprague-Dawley pups were used to generate the OIR model, with a recombinant adeno-associated virus expressing an shRNA (rAAV2-shmTOR-GFP) being administered via intravitreal injection on returning the rats to normoxia, with appropriate controls. Immunohistochemistry and TUNEL assays, as well as fluorescein angiography, were performed on transverse retinal sections and flat mounts, respectively, to determine the in vivo effects of mTOR inhibition. Results Compared with normal control rats, as well as OIR model animals that were either untreated (20.95 ± 6.85), mock-treated (14.50 ± 2.47), or injected with a control short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-containing virus vector (16.64 ± 4.92), rAAV2-shmTOR-GFP (4.28 ± 2.86, P = 0.00103) treatment resulted in dramatically reduced neovascularization as a percentage of total retinal area. These results mirrored quantifications of retinal avascular area and vessel tortuosity, with rAAV2-shmTOR-GFP exhibiting significantly greater therapeutic efficacy than the other treatments. The virus vector was additionally shown to reduce inflammatory cell infiltration into retinal tissue and possess antiapoptotic properties, both these processes having been implicated in the pathophysiology of angiogenic retinal disorders. Conclusions Taken together, these results demonstrate the strong promise of rAAV2-shmTOR-GFP as an effective and convenient gene therapy for the treatment of neovascular retinal diseases.
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16
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Prahst C, Ashrafzadeh P, Mead T, Figueiredo A, Chang K, Richardson D, Venkaraman L, Richards M, Russo AM, Harrington K, Ouarné M, Pena A, Chen DF, Claesson-Welsh L, Cho KS, Franco CA, Bentley K. Mouse retinal cell behaviour in space and time using light sheet fluorescence microscopy. eLife 2020; 9:49779. [PMID: 32073398 PMCID: PMC7162655 DOI: 10.7554/elife.49779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
As the general population ages, more people are affected by eye diseases, such as retinopathies. It is therefore critical to improve imaging of eye disease mouse models. Here, we demonstrate that 1) rapid, quantitative 3D and 4D (time lapse) imaging of cellular and subcellular processes in the mouse eye is feasible, with and without tissue clearing, using light-sheet fluorescent microscopy (LSFM); 2) flat-mounting retinas for confocal microscopy significantly distorts tissue morphology, confirmed by quantitative correlative LSFM-Confocal imaging of vessels; 3) LSFM readily reveals new features of even well-studied eye disease mouse models, such as the oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) model, including a previously unappreciated ‘knotted’ morphology to pathological vascular tufts, abnormal cell motility and altered filopodia dynamics when live-imaged. We conclude that quantitative 3D/4D LSFM imaging and analysis has the potential to advance our understanding of the eye, in particular pathological, neurovascular, degenerative processes. Eye diseases affect millions of people worldwide and can have devasting effects on people’s lives. To find new treatments, scientists need to understand more about how these diseases arise and how they progress. This is challenging and progress has been held back by limitations in current techniques for looking at the eye. Currently, the most commonly used method is called confocal imaging, which is slow and distorts the tissue. Distortion happens because confocal imaging requires that thin slices of eye tissue from mice used in experiments are flattened on slides; this makes it hard to accurately visualize three-dimensional structures in the eye. New methods are emerging that may help. One promising method is called light-sheet fluorescent microscopy (or LSFM for short). This method captures three-dimensional images of the blood vessels and cells in the eye. It is much faster than confocal imaging and allows scientists to image tissues without slicing or flattening them. This could lead to more accurate three-dimensional images of eye disease. Now, Prahst et al. show that LSFM can quickly produce highly detailed, three-dimensional images of mouse retinas, from the smallest parts of cells to the entire eye. The technique also identified new features in a well-studied model of retina damage caused by excessive oxygen exposure in young mice. Previous studies of this model suggested the disease caused blood vessels in the eye to balloon, hinting that drugs that shrink blood vessels would help. But using LSFM, Prahst et al. revealed that these blood vessels actually take on a twisted and knotted shape. This suggests that treatments that untangle the vessels rather than shrink them are needed. The experiments show that LSFM is a valuable tool for studying eye diseases, that may help scientists learn more about how these diseases arise and develop. These new insights may one day lead to better tests and treatments for eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Prahst
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Parham Ashrafzadeh
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Mead
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Informatics, Faculty of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karen Chang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Douglas Richardson
- Harvard Center for Biological Imaging, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, United States
| | - Lakshmi Venkaraman
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mark Richards
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Kyle Harrington
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Marie Ouarné
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Andreia Pena
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Lena Claesson-Welsh
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Office of Research and Development, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, United States
| | | | - Katie Bentley
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Informatics, Faculty of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom.,Biomedical Engineering Department, Boston University, Boston, United States
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17
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Cristescu R, Negut I, Visan AI, Nguyen AK, Sachan A, Goering PL, Chrisey DB, Narayan RJ. Matrix-Assisted Pulsed laser Evaporation-deposited Rapamycin Thin Films Maintain Antiproliferative Activity. Int J Bioprint 2020; 6:188. [PMID: 32782983 PMCID: PMC7415860 DOI: 10.18063/ijb.v6i1.188] [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: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) has many benefits over conventional methods (e.g., dip-coating, spin coating, and Langmuir-Blodgett dip-coating) for manufacturing coatings containing pharmacologic agents on medical devices. In particular, the thickness of the coating that is applied to the surface of the medical device can be tightly controlled. In this study, MAPLE was used to deposit rapamycin-polyvinylpyrrolidone (rapamycin-PVP) thin films onto silicon and borosilicate optical glass substrates. Alamar Blue and PicoGreen studies were used to measure the metabolic health and DNA content of L929 mouse fibroblasts as measures of viability and proliferation, respectively. The cells on the MAPLE-deposited rapamycin-PVP surfaces exhibited 70.6% viability and 53.7% proliferation compared to a borosilicate glass control. These data indicate that the antiproliferative properties of rapamycin were maintained after MAPLE deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodica Cristescu
- Department of Lasers, National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, P.O. Box MG-36, Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
| | - Irina Negut
- Department of Lasers, National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, P.O. Box MG-36, Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
| | - Anita Ioana Visan
- Department of Lasers, National Institute for Lasers, Plasma and Radiation Physics, P.O. Box MG-36, Bucharest-Magurele, Romania
| | - Alexander K. Nguyen
- UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Andrew Sachan
- Wake Technical Community College, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Peter L. Goering
- Center for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Douglas B. Chrisey
- Department of Physics and Engineering Physics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Roger J. Narayan
- UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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18
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Tsang JKW, Liu J, Lo ACY. Vascular and Neuronal Protection in the Developing Retina: Potential Therapeutic Targets for Retinopathy of Prematurity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4321. [PMID: 31484463 PMCID: PMC6747312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a common retinal disease in preterm babies. To prolong the lives of preterm babies, high oxygen is provided to mimic the oxygen level in the intrauterine environment for postnatal organ development. However, hyperoxia-hypoxia induced pathological events occur when babies return to room air, leading to ROP with neuronal degeneration and vascular abnormality that affects retinal functions. With advances in neonatal intensive care, it is no longer uncommon for increased survival of very-low-birth-weight preterm infants, which, therefore, increased the incidence of ROP. ROP is now a major cause of preventable childhood blindness worldwide. Current proven treatment for ROP is limited to invasive retinal ablation, inherently destructive to the retina. The lack of pharmacological treatment for ROP creates a great need for effective and safe therapies in these developing infants. Therefore, it is essential to identify potential therapeutic agents that may have positive ROP outcomes, especially in preserving retinal functions. This review gives an overview of various agents in their efficacy in reducing retinal damages in cell culture tests, animal experiments and clinical studies. New perspectives along the neuroprotective pathways in the developing retina are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K W Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Amy C Y Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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19
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Subirada PV, Paz MC, Ridano ME, Lorenc VE, Fader CM, Chiabrando GA, Sánchez MC. Effect of Autophagy Modulators on Vascular, Glial, and Neuronal Alterations in the Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:279. [PMID: 31297049 PMCID: PMC6608561 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is one of the main insults in proliferative retinopathies, leading to neovascularization and neurodegeneration. To maintain homeostasis, neurons require efficient degradation and recycling systems. Autophagy participates in retinal cell death, but it is also a cell survival mechanism. Here, we analyzed the role of autophagy at the three characteristic time periods in the oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse model and determined if its modulation can improve vascular and non-vascular alterations. Experiments were performed with chloroquine (CQ) in order to monitor autophagosome accumulation by lysosomal blockade. Post natal day (P)17 OIR mouse retinas showed a significant increase in autophagy flux. In particular, an intense LC3B and p62 staining was observed in inner layers of the retina, mainly proliferating endothelial cells. After a single intraocular injection of Rapamycin at P12 OIR, a decreased neovascular area and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein expression were observed at P17 OIR. In addition, whereas the increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was reversed at P26 OIR, the functional alterations persisted. Using a similar therapeutic schedule, we analyzed the effect of anti-VEGF therapy on autophagy flux. Like Rapamycin, VEGF inhibitor treatment not only reduced the amount of neovascular tufts, but also activated autophagy flux at P17 OIR, mainly in ganglion cell layer and inner nuclear layer. Finally, the effects of the disruption of autophagy by Spautin-1, were evaluated at vascular, glial, and neuronal levels. After a single dose of Spautin-1, Western blot analysis showed a significant decrease in LC3B II and p62 protein expression at P13 OIR, returning both autophagy markers to OIR control levels at P17. In addition, neither gliosis nor functional alterations were attenuated. In line with these results, TUNEL staining showed a slight increase in the number of positive cells in the outer nuclear layer at P17 OIR. Overall, our results demonstrate that all treatments of induction or inhibition of the autophagic flux reduced neovascular area but were unable to completely reverse the neuronal damage. Besides, compared to current treatments, rapamycin provides a more promising therapeutic strategy as it reduces both neovascular tufts and persistent gliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V Subirada
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María C Paz
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Magali E Ridano
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Valeria E Lorenc
- Nanomedicine and Vision Group, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Universidad Austral, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Pilar, Argentina
| | - Claudio M Fader
- Facultad de Odontología Mendoza, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina.,Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gustavo A Chiabrando
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - María C Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), Córdoba, Argentina
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20
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Yang JY, Madrakhimov SB, Ahn DH, Chang HS, Jung SJ, Nah SK, Park HY, Park TK. mTORC1 and mTORC2 are differentially engaged in the development of laser-induced CNV. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:64. [PMID: 31200728 PMCID: PMC6570852 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0380-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a potential target to inhibit pathologic processes in choroidal neovascularization. However, the exact role of mTOR signaling in the development of CNV remains obscure. In this study, we assessed the role of mTORC1 and mTORC2 as well as the effect of rapamycin (sirolimus) on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in a laser-induced mouse model. Methods In experiment A, we observed the natural course of CNV development and the dynamics of mTOR-related proteins during the 12 days after the laser injury. The expression of mTOR-related proteins was evaluated using Western blot (WB). Cryosections of CNV-induced mice were immunostained for the visualization of the vascular and extravascular components of the CNV. Experiment B was performed to confirm the critical period of mTOR signaling in the development of laser-induced CNV, we administered rapamycin before and/or during the active period of mTOR complexes. WB and immunofluorescence staining was performed to evaluate the mode of action and the effect of mTOR inhibition on CNV development. Results In experiment A, we detected high levels of p-mTOR S2448 and p-mTOR S2481 from the 5th to 12th day of laser injury. Immunofluorescence imaging of cryosections of mice sacrificed on day 7 revealed greater co-immunoreactivity of p-mTOR S2448 positive cells with CD11b and F4/80, while p-mTOR S2481 positive cells showed colocalization with CD31, α-SMA, and cytokeratin. In experiment B, rapamycin injection during the active period of mTOR signaling demonstrated near-complete inhibition of CNV lesion as well as significant induction of autophagy. Conclusion Our study suggests the mTOR as a critical player during CNV development in laser-induced mouse model through differentially acting with the mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTORC1 activity was high predominantly in inflammatory cells in CNV lesion, while mTORC2 activity was higher in vascular components and the RPE. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-019-0380-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Young Yang
- Department of Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, Soonchunhyang Graduate School, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea.,Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, South Korea
| | - Sanjar Batirovich Madrakhimov
- Department of Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, Soonchunhyang Graduate School, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea.,Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, South Korea
| | - Dong Hyuck Ahn
- Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, South Korea
| | - Hun Soo Chang
- Department of Medical Bioscience, Graduated School, Soonchunhyang University, Bucheon, South Korea
| | - Sang Joon Jung
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Choongchungnam-do, South Korea
| | - Seung Kwan Nah
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Choongchungnam-do, South Korea
| | - Ha Yan Park
- Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, South Korea
| | - Tae Kwann Park
- Department of Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, Soonchunhyang Graduate School, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea. .,Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, South Korea. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, #170, Jomaru-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon, 14584, South Korea. .,Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Choongchungnam-do, South Korea. .,Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea.
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21
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Zhang H, Hudson FZ, Xu Z, Tritz R, Rojas M, Patel C, Haigh SB, Bordán Z, Ingram DA, Fulton DJ, Weintraub NL, Caldwell RB, Stansfield BK. Neurofibromin Deficiency Induces Endothelial Cell Proliferation and Retinal Neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:2520-2528. [PMID: 29847659 PMCID: PMC5963003 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-22588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is the result of inherited mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene, which encodes the protein neurofibromin. Eye manifestations are common in NF1 with recent reports describing a vascular dysplasia in the retina and choroid. Common features of NF1 retinopathy include tortuous and dilated feeder vessels that terminate in capillary tufts, increased endothelial permeability, and neovascularization. Given the retinal vascular phenotype observed in persons with NF1, we hypothesize that preserving neurofibromin may be a novel strategy to control pathologic retinal neovascularization. Methods Nf1 expression in human endothelial cells (EC) was reduced using small hairpin (sh) RNA and EC proliferation, migration, and capacity to form vessel-like networks were assessed in response to VEGF and hypoxia. Wild-type (WT), Nf1 heterozygous (Nf1+/−), and Nf1flox/+;Tie2cre pups were subjected to hyperoxia/hypoxia using the oxygen-induced retinopathy model. Retinas were analyzed quantitatively for extent of retinal vessel dropout, neovascularization, and capillary branching. Results Neurofibromin expression was suppressed in response to VEGF, which corresponded with activation of Mek-Erk and PI3-K-Akt signaling. Neurofibromin-deficient EC exhibited enhanced proliferation and network formation in response to VEGF and hypoxia via an Akt-dependent mechanism. In response to hyperoxia/hypoxia, Nf1+/− retinas exhibited increased vessel dropout and neovascularization when compared with WT retinas. Neovascularization was similar between Nf1+/− and Nf1flox/+;Tie2cre retinas, but capillary drop out in Nf1flox/+;Tie2cre retinas was significantly reduced when compared with Nf1+/− retinas. Conclusions These data suggest that neurofibromin expression is essential for controlling endothelial cell proliferation and retinal neovascularization and therapies targeting neurofibromin-deficient EC may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanfang Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Farlyn Z Hudson
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Zhimin Xu
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Rebekah Tritz
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Modesto Rojas
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Chintan Patel
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Stephen B Haigh
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Zsuzsanna Bordán
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - David A Ingram
- Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States.,Department of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - David J Fulton
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Neal L Weintraub
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Department of Cardiology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Ruth B Caldwell
- Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, Georgia, United States
| | - Brian K Stansfield
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States.,Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, United States
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22
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HPLC-MS/MS-based analysis of everolimus in rabbit aqueous humor: pharmacokinetics of in situ gel eye drops of suspension. Bioanalysis 2019; 11:267-278. [PMID: 30663344 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2018-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Everolimus is an inhibitor of mTOR which is derived from rapamycin. Its high corneal permeability and bioavailability makes it an effective treatment for ocular disorders. To study the pharmacokinetics of in situ gel eye drops of everolimus suspension after ocular administration in rabbit aqueous humor, we developed a rapid and reliable HPLC-MS/MS method. Methodology/results: Ascomycin was selected as the internal standard. HPLC-MS/MS method was used to investigate the concentration-time relationship of everolimus in rabbit aqueous humor through protein precipitation technique. The validated results showed good linearity, accuracy and precision. Conclusion: The method developed in this study is rapid, sensitive and reliable for the determination of the concentration of everolimus in rabbit aqueous humor.
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23
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Bruning U, Morales-Rodriguez F, Kalucka J, Goveia J, Taverna F, Queiroz KCS, Dubois C, Cantelmo AR, Chen R, Loroch S, Timmerman E, Caixeta V, Bloch K, Conradi LC, Treps L, Staes A, Gevaert K, Tee A, Dewerchin M, Semenkovich CF, Impens F, Schilling B, Verdin E, Swinnen JV, Meier JL, Kulkarni RA, Sickmann A, Ghesquière B, Schoonjans L, Li X, Mazzone M, Carmeliet P. Impairment of Angiogenesis by Fatty Acid Synthase Inhibition Involves mTOR Malonylation. Cell Metab 2018; 28:866-880.e15. [PMID: 30146486 PMCID: PMC8057116 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The role of fatty acid synthesis in endothelial cells (ECs) remains incompletely characterized. We report that fatty acid synthase knockdown (FASNKD) in ECs impedes vessel sprouting by reducing proliferation. Endothelial loss of FASN impaired angiogenesis in vivo, while FASN blockade reduced pathological ocular neovascularization, at >10-fold lower doses than used for anti-cancer treatment. Impaired angiogenesis was not due to energy stress, redox imbalance, or palmitate depletion. Rather, FASNKD elevated malonyl-CoA levels, causing malonylation (a post-translational modification) of mTOR at lysine 1218 (K1218). mTOR K-1218 malonylation impaired mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) kinase activity, thereby reducing phosphorylation of downstream targets (p70S6K/4EBP1). Silencing acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (an enzyme producing malonyl-CoA) normalized malonyl-CoA levels and reactivated mTOR in FASNKD ECs. Mutagenesis unveiled the importance of mTOR K1218 malonylation for angiogenesis. This study unveils a novel role of FASN in metabolite signaling that contributes to explaining the anti-angiogenic effect of FASN blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Bruning
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong, P.R. China; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francisco Morales-Rodriguez
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joanna Kalucka
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jermaine Goveia
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Federico Taverna
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karla C S Queiroz
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Dubois
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anna Rita Cantelmo
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rongyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Stefan Loroch
- Leibniz Institut für analytische Wissenschaften, ISAS, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Evy Timmerman
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biochemistry, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Expertise Center, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Caixeta
- Leibniz Institut für analytische Wissenschaften, ISAS, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Katarzyna Bloch
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lena-Christin Conradi
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lucas Treps
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Staes
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biochemistry, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Expertise Center, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kris Gevaert
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biochemistry, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Expertise Center, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Andrew Tee
- Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Mieke Dewerchin
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Clay F Semenkovich
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipid Research, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Francis Impens
- VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biochemistry, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Proteomics Expertise Center, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Eric Verdin
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Johannes V Swinnen
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Albert Sickmann
- Leibniz Institut für analytische Wissenschaften, ISAS, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Bart Ghesquière
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Metabolomics Core Facility, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Schoonjans
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong, P.R. China; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Xuri Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong, P.R. China.
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, Guangdong, P.R. China; Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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24
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Whitehead M, Wickremasinghe S, Osborne A, Van Wijngaarden P, Martin KR. Diabetic retinopathy: a complex pathophysiology requiring novel therapeutic strategies. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2018; 18:1257-1270. [PMID: 30408422 PMCID: PMC6299358 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1545836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of vision loss in the working age population of the developed world. DR encompasses a complex pathology, and one that is reflected in the variety of currently available treatments, which include laser photocoagulation, glucocorticoids, vitrectomy and agents which neutralize vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Whilst these options demonstrate modest clinical benefits, none is yet to fully attenuate clinical progression or reverse damage to the retina. This has led to an interest in developing novel therapies for the condition, such as mediators of angiopoietin signaling axes, immunosuppressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oxidative stress inhibitors and vitriol viscosity inhibitors. Further, preclinical research suggests that gene therapy treatment for DR could provide significant benefits over existing treatments options. AREAS COVERED Here we review the pathophysiology of DR and provide an overview of currently available treatments. We then outline recent advances made towards improved patient outcomes and highlight the potential of the gene therapy paradigm to revolutionize DR management. EXPERT OPINION Whilst significant progress has been made towards our understanding of DR, further research is required to enable the development of a detailed spatiotemporal model of the disease. In addition, we hope that improvements in our knowledge of the condition facilitate therapeutic innovations that continue to address unmet medical need and improve patient outcomes, with a focus on the development of targeted medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Whitehead
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sanjeewa Wickremasinghe
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne and Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Osborne
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Van Wijngaarden
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne and Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Keith R. Martin
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Eye Department, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust – MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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25
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Essential Role of mTOR Signaling in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Regeneration After Laser Photocoagulation. Lasers Med Sci 2018; 34:1019-1029. [PMID: 30499005 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-018-2692-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the role of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in the human adult retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE) cell response after laser photocoagulation (LP). The effect of mTOR inhibition on ARPE-19 cell was investigated by rapamycin treatment after LP. Cell viability and proliferation were explored using MTT and EdU assays, respectively. The expression of mTOR-related proteins and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers was verified by Western blot. Rapamycin retarded the LP area recovery in a dose-dependent manner by the 120 h, while LP+DMSO vehicle-treated cells completely restored the lesion zone (P ≤ 0.01). ARPE-19 cell viability is significantly lower in LP + rapamycin 80 and 160 ng/ml treated cultures compared to LP control at 120 h (P ≤ 0.001). LP control group demonstrated significantly more proliferative cells compared to untreated cells at the 72 and 120 h, whereas EdU-positive cell numbers in cultures treated with rapamycin at concentrations of 80 and 160 ng/ml were similar to baseline values (P ≤ 0.01). mTOR pathway activation is essential for regulation of the RPE cell migration and proliferation after LP. mTOR inhibition with rapamycin effectively blocks the migration and proliferation of the RPE cells. Our results demonstrate that mTOR has an important role in ARPE-19 cell as a regulator of cell behavior under stress conditions, suggesting that mTOR could be a promising therapeutic target for numerous retinal diseases.
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Iizuka N, Morita A, Kawano C, Mori A, Sakamoto K, Kuroyama M, Ishii K, Nakahara T. Anti-angiogenic effects of valproic acid in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. J Pharmacol Sci 2018; 138:203-208. [PMID: 30409713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological retinal angiogenesis contributes to the pathogenesis of several ocular diseases. Valproic acid, a widely used antiepileptic drug, exerts anti-angiogenic effects by inhibiting histone deacetylase (HDAC). Herein, we investigated the effects of valproic acid and vorinostat, a HDAC inhibitor, on pathological retinal angiogenesis in mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). OIR was induced in neonatal mice by exposure to 80% oxygen from postnatal day (P) 7 to P10 and to atmospheric oxygen from P10 to P15. Mice were subcutaneously injected with valproic acid, vorinostat, or vehicle once a day from P10 to P14. At P15, retinal neovascular tufts and vascular growth in the central avascular zone were observed in mice with OIR. Additionally, immunoreactivity for phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 (pS6), an indicator of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activity, was detected in the neovascular tufts. Both valproic acid and vorinostat reduced the formation of retinal neovascular tuft without affecting vascular growth in the central avascular zone. Valproic acid reduced the pS6 immunoreactivity in neovascular tufts. Given that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activates mTOR-dependent pathways in proliferating endothelial cells of the neonatal mouse retina, these results suggest that valproic acid suppresses pathological retinal angiogenesis by interrupting VEGF-mTOR pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Iizuka
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; Pharmacy Practice and Science II (Kitasato University East Hospital), Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kawano
- Pharmacy Practice and Science II (Kitasato University East Hospital), Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Asami Mori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Masakazu Kuroyama
- Pharmacy Practice and Science II (Kitasato University East Hospital), Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Kunio Ishii
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan.
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27
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Joly S, Dejda A, Rodriguez L, Sapieha P, Pernet V. Nogo-A inhibits vascular regeneration in ischemic retinopathy. Glia 2018; 66:2079-2093. [PMID: 30051920 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Nogo-A is a potent glial-derived inhibitor of axon growth in the injured CNS and acts as a negative regulator of developmental angiogenesis by inhibiting vascular endothelial cell migration. However, its function in pathological angiogenesis has never been studied after ischemic injury in the CNS. Using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) which yields defined zones of retinal ischemia, our goal was to investigate the role of Nogo-A in vascular regeneration. We demonstrate a marked upregulation of the Nogo-A receptor sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 2 in blood vessels following OIR, while Nogo-A is abundantly expressed in surrounding glial cells. Acute inhibition of Nogo-A with function-blocking antibody 11C7 significantly improved vascular regeneration and consequently prevented pathological pre-retinal angiogenesis. Ultimately, inhibition of Nogo-A led to restoration of retinal function as determined by electrophysiological response of retinal cells to light stimulation. Our data suggest that anti-Nogo-A antibody may protect neuronal cells from ischemic damage by accelerating blood vessel repair in the CNS. Targeting Nogo-A by immunotherapy may improve CNS perfusion after vascular injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Joly
- CUO-Recherche, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec and Département d'ophtalmologie, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Agnieszka Dejda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Léa Rodriguez
- CUO-Recherche, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec and Département d'ophtalmologie, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Przemyslaw Sapieha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vincent Pernet
- CUO-Recherche, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec and Département d'ophtalmologie, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
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28
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Nakahara T, Morita A, Yagasaki R, Mori A, Sakamoto K. Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Pathological Ocular Angiogenesis. Biol Pharm Bull 2018; 40:2045-2049. [PMID: 29199229 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b17-00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pathological ocular angiogenesis is a causative factor of retinopathy of prematurity, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, and wet age-related macular degeneration. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays an important role in pathological angiogenesis, and anti-VEGF agents have been used to treat the ocular diseases that are driven by pathological angiogenesis. However, adverse effects associated with the blockade of VEGF signaling, including impairments of normal retinal vascular growth and retinal function, were suggested. Therefore, the development of a safe, effective strategy to prevent pathological ocular angiogenesis is needed. Recent studies have demonstrated that inhibitors of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) target proliferating endothelial cells within the retinal vasculature. Here, we review the potential of targeting the mTOR pathway to treat pathological ocular angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Rina Yagasaki
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Asami Mori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
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29
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Kuo HK, Chen YH, Kuo YH, Ke MC, Tseng YC, Wu PC. Evaluation of the Effect of Everolimus on Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells and Experimental Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy. Curr Eye Res 2017; 43:333-339. [PMID: 29182404 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2017.1396618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Failure of retinal detachment surgery is most commonly due to the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Everolimus is an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and is available as oral tablets. In this study, we investigated the effect of everolimus on retinal pigment epithelial cells and modification of the severity of experimental PVR. METHODS In our in vitro studies, primary culture of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells was obtained from pigmented Rex rabbits. Cell proliferation was assayed with the tetrazolium dye cytotoxicity test, and cell migration assay was performed in 24-well transwell units with 8-μm filters. In the in vivo study, pigmented Rex rabbits weighing between 2 and 2.5 kg were used. Each rabbit eye underwent gas compression; one week later, 5 × 104 RPE cells were injected into the vitreous cavity to induce PVR, and each eye was graded with indirect ophthalmoscopy on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28. The rabbits were administered everolimus (0.5 mg/day orally) from the day of PVR induction. Total proteins extracted from RPE cells and dissected retinal samples were processed for Western blotting analysis of mTOR and ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). RESULTS The in vitro studies showed that everolimus significantly inhibited the proliferation of RPE cells at 0.1 μg/ml; additionally, at 10 μg/ml, it suppressed the migration of RPE cells and significantly suppressed the expression of mTOR and RPS6 in RPE cells. The in vivo study did not show any benefit of oral everolimus (0.5 mg/day) in suppressing experimental PVR. Thus, everolimus significantly suppressed the expression of mTOR and RPS6 in PVR. CONCLUSIONS Everolimus suppressed the proliferation and migration of RPE cells in vitro. Oral everolimus (0.5 mg/day) suppressed the expression of mTOR and RPS6 in the retina, but showed no effect in suppressing experimental PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsi-Kung Kuo
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan.,b Chang-Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hao Chen
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan.,b Chang-Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsia Kuo
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Mu-Chan Ke
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chi Tseng
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chang Wu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Kaohsiung Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan.,b Chang-Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
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30
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Spatola R, Nadelstein B, Berdoulay A, English RV. The effects of topical aqueous sirolimus on tear production in normal dogs and dogs with refractory dry eye. Vet Ophthalmol 2017; 21:255-263. [DOI: 10.1111/vop.12503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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31
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Rezzola S, Nawaz IM, Cancarini A, Ravelli C, Calza S, Semeraro F, Presta M. 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous humor assay for the characterization of anti-angiogenic inhibitors for the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Angiogenesis 2017; 20:629-640. [PMID: 28905243 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9575-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) represents a main cause of acquired blindness. Despite the recognition of the key role exerted by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of PDR, limitations to anti-VEGF therapies do exist. Thus, rapid and cost-effective angiogenesis assays are crucial for the screening of anti-angiogenic drug candidates for PDR therapy. In this context, evaluation of the angiogenic potential of PDR vitreous fluid may represent a valuable tool for preclinical assessment of angiostatic molecules. Here, vitreous fluid obtained from PDR patients after pars plana vitrectomy was used as a pro-angiogenic stimulus in a 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous assay. The results show that PDR vitreous is able to stimulate the sprouting of fibrin-embedded HUVEC spheroids in a time- and dose-dependent manner. A remarkable variability was observed among 40 individual vitreous fluid samples in terms of sprouting-inducing activity that was related, at least in part, to defined clinical features of the PDR patient. This activity was hampered by various extracellular and intracellular signaling pathway inhibitors, including the VEGF antagonist ranibizumab. When tested on 20 individual vitreous fluid samples, the inhibitory activity of ranibizumab ranged between 0 and 100% of the activity measured in the absence of the drug, reflecting a variable contribution of angiogenic mediators distinct from VEGF. In conclusion, the 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous assay represents a rapid and cost-effective experimental procedure suitable for the evaluation of the anti-angiogenic activity of novel extracellular and intracellular drug candidates, with possible implications for the therapy of PDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Imtiaz M Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Cancarini
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Calza
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
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Adeno-Associated Viral Vector-Mediated mTOR Inhibition by Short Hairpin RNA Suppresses Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 8:26-35. [PMID: 28918027 PMCID: PMC5477068 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2017.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the defining characteristic feature of the wet subtype of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and may result in irreversible blindness. Based on anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF), the current therapeutic approaches to CNV are fraught with difficulties, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has recently been proposed as a possible therapeutic target, although few studies have been conducted. Here, we show that a recombinant adeno-associated virus-delivered mTOR-inhibiting short hairpin RNA (rAAV-mTOR shRNA), which blocks the activity of both mTOR complex 1 and 2, represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of CNV. Eight-week-old male C57/B6 mice were treated with the short hairpin RNA (shRNA) after generating CNV lesions in the eyes via laser photocoagulation. The recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) delivery vehicle was able to effectively transduce cells in the inner retina, and significantly fewer inflammatory cells and less extensive CNV were observed in the animals treated with rAAV-mTOR shRNA when compared with control- and rAAV-scrambled shRNA-treated groups. Presumably related to the reduction of CNV, increased autophagy was detected in CNV lesions treated with rAAV-mTOR shRNA, whereas significantly fewer apoptotic cells detected in the outer nuclear layer around the CNV indicate that mTOR inhibition may also have neuroprotective effects. Taken together, these results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibition, resulting from rAAV-mTOR shRNA activity, in the treatment of AMD-related CNV.
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Morita A, Ushikubo H, Mori A, Sakamoto K, Nakahara T. Exposure to high-concentration oxygen in the neonatal period induces abnormal retinal vascular patterning in mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 107:216-224. [DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.21187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Minato-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiroko Ushikubo
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Minato-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Asami Mori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Minato-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Minato-ku Tokyo Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Minato-ku Tokyo Japan
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Bolinger MT, Antonetti DA. Moving Past Anti-VEGF: Novel Therapies for Treating Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E1498. [PMID: 27618014 PMCID: PMC5037775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working age adults, and is projected to be a significant future health concern due to the rising incidence of diabetes. The recent advent of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies has revolutionized the treatment of diabetic retinopathy but a significant subset of patients fail to respond to treatment. Accumulating evidence indicates that inflammatory cytokines and chemokines other than VEGF may contribute to the disease process. The current review examines the presence of non-VEGF cytokines in the eyes of patients with diabetic retinopathy and highlights mechanistic pathways in relevant animal models. Finally, novel drug targets including components of the kinin-kallikrein system and emerging treatments such as anti-HPTP (human protein tyrosine phosphatase) β antibodies are discussed. Recognition of non-VEGF contributions to disease pathogenesis may lead to novel therapeutics to enhance existing treatments for patients who do not respond to anti-VEGF therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark T Bolinger
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, and Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.
| | - David A Antonetti
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, and Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA.
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Retinal region-dependent susceptibility of capillaries to high-concentration oxygen exposure and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibition in neonatal mice. J Pharmacol Sci 2015; 129:107-18. [PMID: 26403253 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal blood flow insufficiency due to capillary loss induces hypoxia in the retina, leading to an abnormal angiogenesis, relating to ischemic retinopathy. To better understand the mechanism and process of retinal capillary regression, we examined the process of hyperoxia- and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) inhibitor-induced retinal capillary regression in neonatal mice. We also investigated the effects of Ca(2+) channel blockers, amlodipine and nicardipine, on hyperoxia-induced capillary regression. The regression of capillaries adjacent to arteries began immediately after the mice were exposed to 80% oxygen on postnatal day 7. An apparent avascular zone was established within 24 h after the initiation of oxygen exposure, whereas capillaries in the retinal vascular front were not affected. Axitinib, an inhibitor of VEGFR tyrosine kinase, induced capillary regression throughout the retinal vasculature. High-concentration oxygen exposure affected the capillaries on the arterial side of the retinal circulation more preferentially than axitinib. The Ca(2+) channel blockers significantly delayed hyperoxia-induced capillary regression and changes in the capillaries on the arterial side. These results suggest that the decreased blood flow due to arterial constriction contributes to hyperoxia-induced capillary regression. Compounds that improve the retinal blood flow may prevent ischemia by preventing capillary loss.
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Petrou PA, Cunningham D, Shimel K, Harrington M, Hammel K, Cukras CA, Ferris FL, Chew EY, Wong WT. Intravitreal sirolimus for the treatment of geographic atrophy: results of a phase I/II clinical trial. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 56:330-8. [PMID: 25525171 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-15877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the safety and effects of intravitreal sirolimus for the potential treatment of geographic atrophy (GA). METHODS The study was a single-center, open-label, phase I/II trial enrolling six participants with bilateral GA treated with intravitreal sirolimus in only one randomly assigned eye, with the fellow eye as control. The primary efficacy outcome measure was the change in total GA area from baseline on color fundus photography (CFP); secondary outcomes included changes in GA area on fundus autofluorescence (FAF), visual acuity, central retinal thickness (CRT), and macular sensitivity from baseline. RESULTS Although no systemic adverse events were attributed to treatment, two of six participants had ocular adverse events that were possibly associated. The treated eye of one participant developed abnormal paralesional changes on FAF that were associated with accelerated retinal thinning. This accelerated retinal thinning was also seen in the treated eye of a second participant. Because of concern that these events were associated with treatment, treatment was suspended. Comparisons of treated and fellow eyes for change in visual acuity, change in GA area, and change in CRT showed no evidence of treatment benefit and generally favored the untreated fellow eye. CONCLUSIONS While paralesional FAF changes and rapid retinal thinning observed are potentially part of the natural course of GA, they may possibly be related to treatment. No general evidence of anatomical or functional benefit was detected in treated eyes. Further data on intravitreal sirolimus for GA treatment will be available from a larger phase II trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01445548.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip A Petrou
- Unit on Neuron-Glia Interactions in Retinal Diseases, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Denise Cunningham
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Katherine Shimel
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Keri Hammel
- The EMMES Corporation, Rockville, Maryland, United States
| | - Catherine A Cukras
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Frederick L Ferris
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Emily Y Chew
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Wai T Wong
- Unit on Neuron-Glia Interactions in Retinal Diseases, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
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