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Zhang L, Liu Y, Luo G, Chen C, Dou C, Du J, Xie H, Guan Y, Yang J, Ding Z, Huang Z, Chen Y, Hei Z, Zhang Z, Yao W. Upconversion-Mediated Optogenetics for the Treatment of Surgery-Induced Postoperative Neurocognitive Dysfunction. ACS NANO 2024; 18:11058-11069. [PMID: 38630984 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c10829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is a common complication in surgical patients. While many interventions to prevent PND have been studied, the availability of treatment methods is limited. Thus, it is crucial to delve into the mechanisms of PND, pinpoint therapeutic targets, and develop effective treatment approaches. In this study, reduced dorsal tenia tecta (DTT) neuronal activity was found to be associated with tibial fracture surgery-induced PND, indicating that a neuronal excitation-inhibition (E-I) imbalance could contribute to PND. Optogenetics in the DTT brain region was conducted using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) with the ability to convert 808 nm near-infrared light to visible wavelengths, which triggered the activation of excitatory neurons with minimal damage in the DTT brain region, thus improving cognitive impairment symptoms in the PND model. Moreover, this noninvasive intervention to modulate E-I imbalance showed a positive influence on mouse behavior in the Morris water maze test, which demonstrates that UCNP-mediated optogenetics is a promising tool for the treatment of neurological imbalance disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Yilin Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Gangjian Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Chaojin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Chaoxun Dou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Jingyi Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Hanbin Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Yu Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Zhendong Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Ziyan Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Yongming Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Ziqing Hei
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Weifeng Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 600, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 510635, China
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Baines O, Sha R, Kalla M, Holmes AP, Efimov IR, Pavlovic D, O’Shea C. Optical mapping and optogenetics in cardiac electrophysiology research and therapy: a state-of-the-art review. Europace 2024; 26:euae017. [PMID: 38227822 PMCID: PMC10847904 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euae017] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
State-of-the-art innovations in optical cardiac electrophysiology are significantly enhancing cardiac research. A potential leap into patient care is now on the horizon. Optical mapping, using fluorescent probes and high-speed cameras, offers detailed insights into cardiac activity and arrhythmias by analysing electrical signals, calcium dynamics, and metabolism. Optogenetics utilizes light-sensitive ion channels and pumps to realize contactless, cell-selective cardiac actuation for modelling arrhythmia, restoring sinus rhythm, and probing complex cell-cell interactions. The merging of optogenetics and optical mapping techniques for 'all-optical' electrophysiology marks a significant step forward. This combination allows for the contactless actuation and sensing of cardiac electrophysiology, offering unprecedented spatial-temporal resolution and control. Recent studies have performed all-optical imaging ex vivo and achieved reliable optogenetic pacing in vivo, narrowing the gap for clinical use. Progress in optical electrophysiology continues at pace. Advances in motion tracking methods are removing the necessity of motion uncoupling, a key limitation of optical mapping. Innovations in optoelectronics, including miniaturized, biocompatible illumination and circuitry, are enabling the creation of implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators with optoelectrical closed-loop systems. Computational modelling and machine learning are emerging as pivotal tools in enhancing optical techniques, offering new avenues for analysing complex data and optimizing therapeutic strategies. However, key challenges remain including opsin delivery, real-time data processing, longevity, and chronic effects of optoelectronic devices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in optical mapping and optogenetics and outlines the promising future of optics in reshaping cardiac electrophysiology and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Baines
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Rina Sha
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Manish Kalla
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew P Holmes
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Igor R Efimov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Davor Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Christopher O’Shea
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Edgbastion, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Ronchi C, Galli C, Tullii G, Marzuoli C, Mazzola M, Malferrari M, Crasto S, Rapino S, Di Pasquale E, Antognazza MR. Nongenetic Optical Modulation of Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived Cardiomyocytes Function in the Red Spectral Range. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2304303. [PMID: 37948328 PMCID: PMC10797444 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Optical stimulation in the red/near infrared range recently gained increasing interest, as a not-invasive tool to control cardiac cell activity and repair in disease conditions. Translation of this approach to therapy is hampered by scarce efficacy and selectivity. The use of smart biocompatible materials, capable to act as local, NIR-sensitive interfaces with cardiac cells, may represent a valuable solution, capable to overcome these limitations. In this work, a far red-responsive conjugated polymer, namely poly[2,1,3-benzothiadiazole-4,7-diyl[4,4-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-4H-cyclopenta[2,1-b:3,4-b']dithiophene-2,6-diyl]] (PCPDTBT) is proposed for the realization of photoactive interfaces with cardiomyocytes derived from pluripotent stem cells (hPSC-CMs). Optical excitation of the polymer turns into effective ionic and electrical modulation of hPSC-CMs, in particular by fastening Ca2+ dynamics, inducing action potential shortening, accelerating the spontaneous beating frequency. The involvement in the phototransduction pathway of Sarco-Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase (SERCA) and Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) is proven by pharmacological assays and is correlated with physical/chemical processes occurring at the polymer surface upon photoexcitation. Very interestingly, an antiarrhythmogenic effect, unequivocally triggered by polymer photoexcitation, is also observed. Overall, red-light excitation of conjugated polymers may represent an unprecedented opportunity for fine control of hPSC-CMs functionality and can be considered as a perspective, noninvasive approach to treat arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Ronchi
- Center for Nano Science and TechnologyIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaMilano20133Italy
| | - Camilla Galli
- Humanitas Cardio CenterIRCCS Humanitas Research HospitalVia Manzoni 56RozzanoMilan20089Italy
| | - Gabriele Tullii
- Center for Nano Science and TechnologyIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaMilano20133Italy
| | - Camilla Marzuoli
- Center for Nano Science and TechnologyIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaMilano20133Italy
- Politecnico di MilanoPhysics Dept.P.zza L. Da Vinci 32Milano20133Italy
| | - Marta Mazzola
- Humanitas Cardio CenterIRCCS Humanitas Research HospitalVia Manzoni 56RozzanoMilan20089Italy
| | - Marco Malferrari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bologna‘‘Giacomo Ciamician,’’via Francesco Selmi 2Bologna40126Italy
| | - Silvia Crasto
- Humanitas Cardio CenterIRCCS Humanitas Research HospitalVia Manzoni 56RozzanoMilan20089Italy
| | - Stefania Rapino
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bologna‘‘Giacomo Ciamician,’’via Francesco Selmi 2Bologna40126Italy
| | - Elisa Di Pasquale
- Humanitas Cardio CenterIRCCS Humanitas Research HospitalVia Manzoni 56RozzanoMilan20089Italy
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB)UOS of Milan—National Research Council of Italy (CNR)Milan20138Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Antognazza
- Center for Nano Science and TechnologyIstituto Italiano di TecnologiaMilano20133Italy
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Almasri RM, Ladouceur F, Mawad D, Esrafilzadeh D, Firth J, Lehmann T, Poole-Warren LA, Lovell NH, Al Abed A. Emerging trends in the development of flexible optrode arrays for electrophysiology. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031503. [PMID: 37692375 PMCID: PMC10491464 DOI: 10.1063/5.0153753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Optical-electrode (optrode) arrays use light to modulate excitable biological tissues and/or transduce bioelectrical signals into the optical domain. Light offers several advantages over electrical wiring, including the ability to encode multiple data channels within a single beam. This approach is at the forefront of innovation aimed at increasing spatial resolution and channel count in multichannel electrophysiology systems. This review presents an overview of devices and material systems that utilize light for electrophysiology recording and stimulation. The work focuses on the current and emerging methods and their applications, and provides a detailed discussion of the design and fabrication of flexible arrayed devices. Optrode arrays feature components non-existent in conventional multi-electrode arrays, such as waveguides, optical circuitry, light-emitting diodes, and optoelectronic and light-sensitive functional materials, packaged in planar, penetrating, or endoscopic forms. Often these are combined with dielectric and conductive structures and, less frequently, with multi-functional sensors. While creating flexible optrode arrays is feasible and necessary to minimize tissue-device mechanical mismatch, key factors must be considered for regulatory approval and clinical use. These include the biocompatibility of optical and photonic components. Additionally, material selection should match the operating wavelength of the specific electrophysiology application, minimizing light scattering and optical losses under physiologically induced stresses and strains. Flexible and soft variants of traditionally rigid photonic circuitry for passive optical multiplexing should be developed to advance the field. We evaluate fabrication techniques against these requirements. We foresee a future whereby established telecommunications techniques are engineered into flexible optrode arrays to enable unprecedented large-scale high-resolution electrophysiology systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem M. Almasri
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Damia Mawad
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dorna Esrafilzadeh
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Josiah Firth
- Australian National Fabrication Facility, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Torsten Lehmann
- School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | | | - Amr Al Abed
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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5
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Ochs AR, Boyle PM. Optogenetic Modulation of Arrhythmia Triggers: Proof-of-Concept from Computational Modeling. Cell Mol Bioeng 2023; 16:243-259. [PMID: 37810996 PMCID: PMC10550900 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-023-00781-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early afterdepolarizations (EADs) are secondary voltage depolarizations associated with reduced repolarization reserve (RRR) that can trigger lethal arrhythmias. Relating EADs to triggered activity is difficult to study, so the ability to suppress or provoke EADs would be experimentally useful. Here, we use computational simulations to assess the feasibility of subthreshold optogenetic stimulation modulating the propensity for EADs (cell-scale) and EAD-associated ectopic beats (organ-scale). Methods We modified a ventricular ionic model by reducing rapid delayed rectifier potassium (0.25-0.1 × baseline) and increasing L-type calcium (1.0-3.5 × baseline) currents to create RRR conditions with varying severity. We ran simulations in models of single cardiomyocytes and left ventricles from post-myocardial infarction patient MRI scans. Optogenetic stimulation was simulated using either ChR2 (depolarizing) or GtACR1 (repolarizing) opsins. Results In cell-scale simulations without illumination, EADs were seen for 164 of 416 RRR conditions. Subthreshold stimulation of GtACR1 reduced EAD incidence by up to 84.8% (25/416 RRR conditions; 0.1 μW/mm2); in contrast, subthreshold ChR2 excitation increased EAD incidence by up to 136.6% (388/416 RRR conditions; 50 μW/mm2). At the organ scale, we assumed simultaneous, uniform illumination of the epicardial and endocardial surfaces. GtACR1-mediated suppression (10-50 μW/mm2) and ChR2-mediated unmasking (50-100 μW/mm2) of EAD-associated ectopic beats were feasible in three distinct ventricular models. Conclusions Our findings suggest that optogenetics could be used to silence or provoke both EADs and EAD-associated ectopic beats. Validation in animal models could lead to exciting new experimental regimes and potentially to novel anti-arrhythmia treatments. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-023-00781-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R. Ochs
- Department of Bioengineering, UW Bioengineering, University of Washington, 3720 15th Ave NE N107, UW Mailbox 355061, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Patrick M. Boyle
- Department of Bioengineering, UW Bioengineering, University of Washington, 3720 15th Ave NE N107, UW Mailbox 355061, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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Wu JY, Yeager K, Tavakol DN, Morsink M, Wang B, Soni RK, Hung CT, Vunjak-Novakovic G. Directed differentiation of human iPSCs into mesenchymal lineages by optogenetic control of TGF-β signaling. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112509. [PMID: 37178118 PMCID: PMC10278972 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112509] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In tissue development and homeostasis, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is finely coordinated by latent forms and matrix sequestration. Optogenetics can offer precise and dynamic control of cell signaling. We report the development of an optogenetic human induced pluripotent stem cell system for TGF-β signaling and demonstrate its utility in directing differentiation into the smooth muscle, tenogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. Light-activated TGF-β signaling resulted in expression of differentiation markers at levels close to those in soluble factor-treated cultures, with minimal phototoxicity. In a cartilage-bone model, light-patterned TGF-β gradients allowed the establishment of hyaline-like layer of cartilage tissue at the articular surface while attenuating with depth to enable hypertrophic induction at the osteochondral interface. By selectively activating TGF-β signaling in co-cultures of light-responsive and non-responsive cells, undifferentiated and differentiated cells were simultaneously maintained in a single culture with shared medium. This platform can enable patient-specific and spatiotemporally precise studies of cellular decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Y Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Keith Yeager
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | | | - Margaretha Morsink
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Bryan Wang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Rajesh Kumar Soni
- Proteomics and Macromolecular Crystallography Shared Resource, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Clark T Hung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Mazraeh D, Di Ventura B. Synthetic microbiology applications powered by light. Curr Opin Microbiol 2022; 68:102158. [PMID: 35660240 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic biology is a field of research in which molecular parts (mostly nucleic acids and proteins) are de novo created or modified and then used either alone or in combination to achieve new functions that can help solve the problems of our modern society. In synthetic microbiology, microbes are employed rather than other organisms or cell-free systems. Optogenetics, a relatively recently established technology that relies on the use of genetically encoded photosensitive proteins to control biological processes with high spatiotemporal precision, offers the possibility to empower synthetic (micro)biology applications due to the many positive features that light has as an external trigger. In this review, we describe recent synthetic microbiology applications that made use of optogenetics after briefly introducing the molecular mechanism behind some of the most employed optogenetic tools. We highlight the power and versatility of this technique, which opens up new horizons for both research and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mazraeh
- Signaling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Di Ventura
- Signaling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Institute of Biology II, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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8
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Simultaneous detection of thiabendazole and carbendazim in foods based on two-color upconversion and magnetic separation nanoparticles fluorescence immunoassay. Eur Food Res Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00217-021-03853-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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9
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Lin Y, Yao Y, Zhang W, Fang Q, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Xu Y. Applications of upconversion nanoparticles in cellular optogenetics. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:1-12. [PMID: 34461347 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Upconversion-mediated optogenetics is an emerging powerful technique to remotely control and manipulate the deep-tissue protein functions and signaling pathway activation. This technique uses lanthanide upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) as light transducers and through near-infrared light to indirectly activate the traditional optogenetic proteins. With the merits of high spatiotemporal resolution and minimal invasiveness, this technique enables cell-type specific manipulation of cellular activities in deep tissues as well as in living animals. In this review, we introduce the latest development of optogenetic modules and UCNPs, with emphasis on the integration of UCNPs with cellular optogenetics and their biomedical applications on the control of neural/brain activity, cancer therapy and cardiac optogenetics in vivo. Furthermore, we analyze the current developed strategies to optimize and advance the upconversion-mediated optogenetics and discuss the remaining challenges of its further applications in biomedical study and clinical translational research. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Optogenetics harnesses photoactivatable proteins to optically stimulate and control intracellular activities. UCNPs-mediated NIR-activatable optogenetics uses lanthanide upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) as light transducers and utilizes near-infrared (NIR) light to indirectly activate the traditional optogenetic proteins. The integration of UCNPs with cellular optogenetics has showed great promise in biomedical applications in regulating neural/brain activity, cancer therapy and cardiac optogenetics in vivo. The evolution and optimization of functional UCNPs and the discovery and engineering of novel optogenetic modules would both contribute to the advance of such unique hybrid technology, which may lead to discoveries in biomedical research and provide new treatments for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinyan Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yuanfa Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Wanmei Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Qiuyu Fang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Luhao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Yingke Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China; Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China.
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10
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Ochs AR, Karathanos TV, Trayanova NA, Boyle PM. Optogenetic Stimulation Using Anion Channelrhodopsin (GtACR1) Facilitates Termination of Reentrant Arrhythmias With Low Light Energy Requirements: A Computational Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:718622. [PMID: 34526912 PMCID: PMC8435849 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.718622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic defibrillation of hearts expressing light-sensitive cation channels (e.g., ChR2) has been proposed as an alternative to conventional electrotherapy. Past modeling work has shown that ChR2 stimulation can depolarize enough myocardium to interrupt arrhythmia, but its efficacy is limited by light attenuation and high energy needs. These shortcomings may be mitigated by using new optogenetic proteins like Guillardia theta Anion Channelrhodopsin (GtACR1), which produces a repolarizing outward current upon illumination. Accordingly, we designed a study to assess the feasibility of GtACR1-based optogenetic arrhythmia termination in human hearts. We conducted electrophysiological simulations in MRI-based atrial or ventricular models (n = 3 each), with pathological remodeling from atrial fibrillation or ischemic cardiomyopathy, respectively. We simulated light sensitization via viral gene delivery of three different opsins (ChR2, red-shifted ChR2, GtACR1) and uniform endocardial illumination at the appropriate wavelengths (blue, red, or green light, respectively). To analyze consistency of arrhythmia termination, we varied pulse timing (three evenly spaced intervals spanning the reentrant cycle) and intensity (atrial: 0.001–1 mW/mm2; ventricular: 0.001–10 mW/mm2). In atrial models, GtACR1 stimulation with 0.005 mW/mm2 green light consistently terminated reentry; this was 10–100x weaker than the threshold levels for ChR2-mediated defibrillation. In ventricular models, defibrillation was observed in 2/3 models for GtACR1 stimulation at 0.005 mW/mm2 (100–200x weaker than ChR2 cases). In the third ventricular model, defibrillation failed in nearly all cases, suggesting that attenuation issues and patient-specific organ/scar geometry may thwart termination in some cases. Across all models, the mechanism of GtACR1-mediated defibrillation was voltage forcing of illuminated tissue toward the modeled channel reversal potential of −40 mV, which made propagation through affected regions impossible. Thus, our findings suggest GtACR1-based optogenetic defibrillation of the human heart may be feasible with ≈2–3 orders of magnitude less energy than ChR2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Ochs
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Thomas V Karathanos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Natalia A Trayanova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Alliance for Cardiovascular Diagnostic and Treatment Innovation, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Patrick M Boyle
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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11
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Scalco A, Moro N, Mongillo M, Zaglia T. Neurohumoral Cardiac Regulation: Optogenetics Gets Into the Groove. Front Physiol 2021; 12:726895. [PMID: 34531763 PMCID: PMC8438220 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.726895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS) is the main modulator of heart function, adapting contraction force, and rate to the continuous variations of intrinsic and extrinsic environmental conditions. While the parasympathetic branch dominates during rest-and-digest sympathetic neuron (SN) activation ensures the rapid, efficient, and repeatable increase of heart performance, e.g., during the "fight-or-flight response." Although the key role of the nervous system in cardiac homeostasis was evident to the eyes of physiologists and cardiologists, the degree of cardiac innervation, and the complexity of its circuits has remained underestimated for too long. In addition, the mechanisms allowing elevated efficiency and precision of neurogenic control of heart function have somehow lingered in the dark. This can be ascribed to the absence of methods adequate to study complex cardiac electric circuits in the unceasingly moving heart. An increasing number of studies adds to the scenario the evidence of an intracardiac neuron system, which, together with the autonomic components, define a little brain inside the heart, in fervent dialogue with the central nervous system (CNS). The advent of optogenetics, allowing control the activity of excitable cells with cell specificity, spatial selectivity, and temporal resolution, has allowed to shed light on basic neuro-cardiology. This review describes how optogenetics, which has extensively been used to interrogate the circuits of the CNS, has been applied to untangle the knots of heart innervation, unveiling the cellular mechanisms of neurogenic control of heart function, in physiology and pathology, as well as those participating to brain-heart communication, back and forth. We discuss existing literature, providing a comprehensive view of the advancement in the understanding of the mechanisms of neurogenic heart control. In addition, we weigh the limits and potential of optogenetics in basic and applied research in neuro-cardiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Scalco
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Moro
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Mongillo
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Tania Zaglia
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Lim WK, Kaur P, Huang H, Jo RS, Ramamoorthy A, Ng LF, Suresh J, Maisha FI, Mathuru AS, Tolwinski NS. Optogenetic approaches for understanding homeostatic and degenerative processes in Drosophila. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5865-5880. [PMID: 34232330 PMCID: PMC8260576 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03836-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Many organs and tissues have an intrinsic ability to regenerate from a dedicated, tissue-specific stem cell pool. As organisms age, the process of self-regulation or homeostasis begins to slow down with fewer stem cells available for tissue repair. Tissues become more fragile and organs less efficient. This slowdown of homeostatic processes leads to the development of cellular and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we highlight the recent use and future potential of optogenetic approaches to study homeostasis. Optogenetics uses photosensitive molecules and genetic engineering to modulate cellular activity in vivo, allowing precise experiments with spatiotemporal control. We look at applications of this technology for understanding the mechanisms governing homeostasis and degeneration as applied to widely used model organisms, such as Drosophila melanogaster, where other common tools are less effective or unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Kin Lim
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Prameet Kaur
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Huanyan Huang
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Li Fang Ng
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jahnavi Suresh
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Ajay S Mathuru
- Science Division, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
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13
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Oh TJ, Fan H, Skeeters SS, Zhang K. Steering Molecular Activity with Optogenetics: Recent Advances and Perspectives. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2000180. [PMID: 34028216 PMCID: PMC8218620 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetics utilizes photosensitive proteins to manipulate the localization and interaction of molecules in living cells. Because light can be rapidly switched and conveniently confined to the sub-micrometer scale, optogenetics allows for controlling cellular events with an unprecedented resolution in time and space. The past decade has witnessed an enormous progress in the field of optogenetics within the biological sciences. The ever-increasing amount of optogenetic tools, however, can overwhelm the selection of appropriate optogenetic strategies. Considering that each optogenetic tool may have a distinct mode of action, a comparative analysis of the current optogenetic toolbox can promote the further use of optogenetics, especially by researchers new to this field. This review provides such a compilation that highlights the spatiotemporal accuracy of current optogenetic systems. Recent advances of optogenetics in live cells and animal models are summarized, the emerging work that interlinks optogenetics with other research fields is presented, and exciting clinical and industrial efforts to employ optogenetic strategy toward disease intervention are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teak-Jung Oh
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Huaxun Fan
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Savanna S Skeeters
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Kai Zhang
- 600 South Mathews Avenue, 314 B Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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14
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Li J, Li H, Rao P, Luo J, Wang X, Wang L. Shining light on cardiac electrophysiology: From detection to intervention, from basic research to translational applications. Life Sci 2021; 274:119357. [PMID: 33737082 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are an important group of cardiovascular diseases, which can occur alone or in association with other cardiovascular diseases. The development of cardiac arrhythmias cannot be separated from changes in cardiac electrophysiology, and the investigation and clarification of cardiac electrophysiological changes are beneficial for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. However, electrical energy-based pacemakers and defibrillators, which are widely used to treat arrhythmias, still have certain disadvantages. Thereby, optics promises to be used for optical manipulation and its use in biomedicine is increasing. Since visible light is readily absorbed and scattered in living tissues and tissue penetration is shallow, optical modulation for cells and tissues requires conversion media that convert light energy into bioelectrical activity. In this regard, fluorescent dyes, light-sensitive ion channels, and optical nanomaterials can assume this role, the corresponding optical mapping technology, optogenetics technology, and optical systems based on luminescent nanomaterials have been introduced into the research in cardiovascular field and are expected to be new tools for the study and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. In addition, infrared and near-infrared light has strong tissue penetration, which is one of the excellent options of external trigger for achieving optical modulation, and is also widely used in the study of optical modulation of biological activities. Here, the advantages of optical applications are summarized, the research progresses and emerging applications of optical-based technologies as detection and intervention tools for cardiac electrophysiological are highlighted. Moreover, the prospects for future applications of optics in clinical diagnosis and treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyi Li
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Haitao Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311, PR China
| | - Panpan Rao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Junmiao Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China.
| | - Long Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Department of Anesthesiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China.
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15
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Abstract
The electromechanical function of the heart involves complex, coordinated activity over time and space. Life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias arise from asynchrony in these space-time events; therefore, therapies for prevention and treatment require fundamental understanding and the ability to visualize, perturb and control cardiac activity. Optogenetics combines optical and molecular biology (genetic) approaches for light-enabled sensing and actuation of electrical activity with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution and parallelism. The year 2020 marks a decade of developments in cardiac optogenetics since this technology was adopted from neuroscience and applied to the heart. In this Review, we appraise a decade of advances that define near-term (immediate) translation based on all-optical electrophysiology, including high-throughput screening, cardiotoxicity testing and personalized medicine assays, and long-term (aspirational) prospects for clinical translation of cardiac optogenetics, including new optical therapies for rhythm control. The main translational opportunities and challenges for optogenetics to be fully embraced in cardiology are also discussed.
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16
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Li A, Tanzi RE. <p>Optogenetic Pacing: Current Insights and Future Potential</p>. RESEARCH REPORTS IN CLINICAL CARDIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.2147/rrcc.s242650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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