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Rodríguez-Arrizabalaga M, Hernández-Núñez I, Candal E, Barreiro-Iglesias A. Use of vivo-morpholinos for gene knockdown in the postnatal shark retina. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109333. [PMID: 36436570 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Work in the catshark Scyliorhinus canicula has shown that the evolutionary origin of postnatal neurogenesis in vertebrates is earlier than previously thought. Thus, the catshark can serve as a model of interest to understand postnatal neurogenic processes and their evolution in vertebrates. One of the best characterized neurogenic niches of the catshark CNS is found in the peripheral region of the retina. Unfortunately, the lack of genetic tools in sharks limits the possibilities to deepen in the study of genes involved in the neurogenic process. Here, we report a method for gene knockdown in the juvenile catshark retina based on the use of Vivo-Morpholinos. To establish the method, we designed Vivo-Morpholinos against the proliferation marker PCNA. We first evaluated the possible toxicity of 3 different intraocular administration regimes. After this optimization step, we show that a single intraocular injection of the PCNA Vivo-Morpholino decreases the expression of PCNA in the peripheral retina, which leads to reduced mitotic activity in this region. This method will help in deciphering the role of other genes potentially involved in postnatal neurogenesis in this animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariña Rodríguez-Arrizabalaga
- Departament of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ismael Hernández-Núñez
- Departament of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eva Candal
- Departament of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antón Barreiro-Iglesias
- Departament of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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2
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Jia JD, Jiang WG, Luo X, Li RR, Zhao YC, Tian G, Li YN. Vascular endothelial growth factor B inhibits insulin secretion in MIN6 cells and reduces Ca 2+ and cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels through PI3K/AKT pathway. World J Diabetes 2021; 12:480-498. [PMID: 33889292 PMCID: PMC8040075 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v12.i4.480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by insufficient insulin secretion caused by defective pancreatic β-cell function or insulin resistance, resulting in an increase in blood glucose. However, the mechanism involved in this lack of insulin secretion is unclear. The level of vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGF-B) is significantly increased in T2D patients. The inactivation of VEGF-B could restore insulin sensitivity in db/db mice by reducing fatty acid accumulation. It is speculated that VEGF-B is related to pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and is an important factor affecting β-cell secretion of insulin. As an in vitro model of normal pancreatic β-cells, the MIN6 cell line can be used to analyze the mechanism of insulin secretion and related biological effects.
AIM To study the role of VEGF-B in the insulin secretion signaling pathway in MIN6 cells and explore the effect of VEGF-B on blood glucose regulation.
METHODS The MIN6 mouse pancreatic islet β-cell line was used as the model system. By administering exogenous VEGF-B protein or knocking down VEGF-B expression in MIN6 cells, we examined the effects of VEGF-B on insulin secretion, Ca2+ and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, and the insulin secretion signaling pathway.
RESULTS Exogenous VEGF-B inhibited the secretion of insulin and simultaneously reduced the levels of Ca2+ and cAMP in MIN6 cells. Exogenous VEGF-B also reduced the expression of phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLCγ1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), serine/threonine kinase (AKT), and other proteins in the insulin secretion pathway. Upon knockdown of VEGF-B, MIN6 cells exhibited increased insulin secretion and Ca2+ and cAMP levels and upregulated expression of PLCγ1, PI3K, AKT, and other proteins.
CONCLUSION VEGF-B can regulate insulin secretion by modulating the levels of Ca2+ and cAMP. VEGF-B involvement in insulin secretion is related to the expression of PLCγ1, PI3K, AKT, and other signaling proteins. These results provide theoretical support and an experimental basis for the study of VEGF-B in the pathogenesis of T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Dan Jia
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Guo Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xu Luo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
| | - Rong-Rong Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yu-Chi Zhao
- Department of Surgery, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264001, Shandong Province, China
| | - Geng Tian
- Department of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ya-Na Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, Shandong Province, China
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Di Matteo A, Belloni E, Pradella D, Cappelletto A, Volf N, Zacchigna S, Ghigna C. Alternative splicing in endothelial cells: novel therapeutic opportunities in cancer angiogenesis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:275. [PMID: 33287867 PMCID: PMC7720527 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01753-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alternative splicing (AS) is a pervasive molecular process generating multiple protein isoforms, from a single gene. It plays fundamental roles during development, differentiation and maintenance of tissue homeostasis, while aberrant AS is considered a hallmark of multiple diseases, including cancer. Cancer-restricted AS isoforms represent either predictive biomarkers for diagnosis/prognosis or targets for anti-cancer therapies. Here, we discuss the contribution of AS regulation in cancer angiogenesis, a complex process supporting disease development and progression. We consider AS programs acting in a specific and non-redundant manner to influence morphological and functional changes involved in cancer angiogenesis. In particular, we describe relevant AS variants or splicing regulators controlling either secreted or membrane-bound angiogenic factors, which may represent attractive targets for therapeutic interventions in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Di Matteo
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Belloni
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Davide Pradella
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ambra Cappelletto
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Nina Volf
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy. .,Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Claudia Ghigna
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
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Yang SH, Wang XL, Cai J, Wang SH. Diagnostic Value of Circulating PIGF in Combination with Flt-1 in Early Cervical Cancer. Curr Med Sci 2020; 40:973-978. [PMID: 33123910 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-020-2269-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The utility of placental growth factor (PlGF) and its receptor VEGFR-1 (Flt-1) as biomarkers for cervical cancer has not been clarified yet. To address this issue, we investigated the levels of soluble PlGF (sPlGF) and soluble Flt-1 (sFlt-1) in the serum from patients with early cervical cancer, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and controls in this study. sPlGF and sFlt-1 were detected in 44 preoperative patients with cervical cancer, 18 cases with CIN, and 20 controls by ELISA. It was found that both sPlGF and sFlt-1 were significantly increased in the cervical cancer group as compared with those in CIN and control groups. sPlGF presented a high diagnostic ability of cervical cancer, with a sensitivity of 61.36% and a specificity of 89.47%; and sFlt-1 with a sensitivity of 50.00% and a specificity of 92.11%. Importantly, the combined use of sPlGF and sFlt-1 could increase the diagnostic rate of cervical cancer, with a sensitivity of 70.45% and a specificity of 92.11%. These results indicated that both sPlGF and sFlt-1 in circulation can serve as possible valuable diagnostic biomarkers for cervical cancer, and the combined use of them can be more valuable to diagnose the patients with early cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-Hua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shao-Hai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Tyrsina E, Nikulitskiy S, Inshakov A, Ryabaya O, Tyrsin D. Detection and quantification of VEGFR-1 in the nuclei of tumor cells by a new flow cytometry-based method. J Immunotoxicol 2019; 16:74-81. [DOI: 10.1080/1547691x.2019.1598522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Tyrsina
- Laboratory of Experimental Diagnostics and Biotherapy of Tumors, Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Therapy of Tumors, N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Nikulitskiy
- Laboratory of Experimental Diagnostics and Biotherapy of Tumors, Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Therapy of Tumors, N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Inshakov
- Laboratory of Experimental Diagnostics and Biotherapy of Tumors, Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Therapy of Tumors, N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oxana Ryabaya
- Laboratory of Experimental Diagnostics and Biotherapy of Tumors, Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Therapy of Tumors, N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry Tyrsin
- Laboratory of Experimental Diagnostics and Biotherapy of Tumors, Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Therapy of Tumors, N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
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The sVEGFR1-i13 splice variant regulates a β1 integrin/VEGFR autocrine loop involved in the progression and the response to anti-angiogenic therapies of squamous cell lung carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2018; 118:1596-1608. [PMID: 29795310 PMCID: PMC6008445 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-018-0128-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While lung adenocarcinoma patients can somewhat benefit from anti-angiogenic therapies, patients with squamous cell lung carcinoma (SQLC) cannot. The reasons for this discrepancy remain largely unknown. Soluble VEGF receptor-1, namely sVEGFR1-i13, is a truncated splice variant of the cell membrane-spanning VEGFR1 that has no transmembrane or tyrosine kinase domain. sVEGFR1-i13 is mainly viewed as an anti-angiogenic factor which counteracts VEGF-A/VEGFR signalling in endothelial cells. However, its role in tumour cells is poorly known. METHODS mRNA and protein status were analysed by Real-Time qPCR, western blotting, ELISA assay, proximity ligation assay or immunohistochemistry in human tumour cell lines, murine tumourgrafts and non small cell lung carcinoma patients samples. RESULTS We show that anti-angiogenic therapies specifically increase the levels of sVEGFR1-i13 in SQLC cell lines and chemically induced SQLC murine tumourgrafts. At the molecular level, we characterise a sVEGFR1-i13/β1 integrin/VEGFR autocrine loop which determines whether SQLC cells proliferate or go into apoptosis, in response to anti-angiogenic therapies. Furthermore, we show that high levels of both sVEGFR1-i13 and β1 integrin mRNAs and proteins are associated with advanced stages in SQLC patients and with a poor clinical outcome in patients with early stage SQLC. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results reveal an unexpected pro-tumoural function of sVEGFR1-i13 in SQLC tumour cells, which contributes to their progression and escape from anti-angiogenic therapies. These data might help to understand why some SQLC patients do not respond to anti-angiogenic therapies.
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Checa-Rojas A, Delgadillo-Silva LF, Velasco-Herrera MDC, Andrade-Domínguez A, Gil J, Santillán O, Lozano L, Toledo-Leyva A, Ramírez-Torres A, Talamas-Rohana P, Encarnación-Guevara S. GSTM3 and GSTP1: novel players driving tumor progression in cervical cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 9:21696-21714. [PMID: 29774096 PMCID: PMC5955133 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular processes and proteomic markers leading to tumor progression (TP) in cervical cancer (CC) are either unknown or only partially understood. TP affects metabolic and regulatory mechanisms that can be identified as proteomic changes. To identify which proteins are differentially expressed and to understand the mechanisms of cancer progression, we analyzed the dynamics of the tumor proteome in CC cell lines. This analysis revealed two proteins that are up-regulated during TP, GSTM3 and GSTP1. These proteins are involved in cell maintenance, cell survival and the cellular stress response via the NF-κB and MAP kinase pathways during TP. Furthermore, GSTM3 and GSTP1 knockdown showed that evasion of apoptosis was affected, and tumor proliferation was significantly reduced. Our data indicate the critical role of GST proteins in the regulation and progression of cervical cancer cells. Hence, we suggest GSTM3 and GSTP1 as novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for treating cervical cancer. SIGNIFICANCE CC is particularly hazardous in the advanced stages, and there are few therapeutic strategies specifically targeting these stages. We performed analyses on CC tumor proteome dynamics and identified GSTM3 and GSTP1 as novel potential therapeutic targets. Knockdown of these proteins showed that they are involved in cell survival, cell proliferation and cellular evasion of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Checa-Rojas
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Luis Fernando Delgadillo-Silva
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | | | - Andrés Andrade-Domínguez
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Jeovanis Gil
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Orlando Santillán
- Programa de Genómica Evolutiva, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Luis Lozano
- Programa de Genómica Evolutiva, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Alfredo Toledo-Leyva
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, México
| | - Alberto Ramírez-Torres
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Patricia Talamas-Rohana
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, México
| | - Sergio Encarnación-Guevara
- Laboratorio de Proteómica, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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Tyrsina EG, Nikulitskiy SI, Inshakov AN, Ryabaya OO. VEGF-R1 as a Potential Molecular Target for Anticancer Therapy. DOKL BIOCHEM BIOPHYS 2018. [PMID: 29536302 DOI: 10.1134/s1607672918010052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The possibility of using VEGF-R1 receptor for targeted therapy in oncology was investigated. Using the approach to measuring the protein content in intact nuclei of cells, which was developed by us, we showed the presence of this receptor in the nuclei of tumor, but not normal cells. A direct correlation between the level of VEGF-R1 expression in the nucleus and the degree of malignancy of tumor cells, indicating the prognostic value of this parameter, was found. The mechanisms of the functioning of this receptor and the pathways of inhibiting its activity are discussed, and the validity of the selection of VEGF-R1 as a molecular target for anticancer therapy is conformed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E G Tyrsina
- Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 115478, Russia.
| | - S I Nikulitskiy
- Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 115478, Russia
| | - A N Inshakov
- Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 115478, Russia
| | - O O Ryabaya
- Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 115478, Russia
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Abstract
Alternative splicing is a well-studied gene regulatory mechanism that produces biological diversity by allowing the production of multiple protein isoforms from a single gene. An involvement of alternative splicing in the key biological signalling Hippo pathway is emerging and offers new therapeutic avenues. This review discusses examples of alternative splicing in the Hippo pathway, how deregulation of these processes may contribute to disease and whether these processes offer new potential therapeutic targets.
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10
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Choi S, Uehara H, Wu Y, Das S, Zhang X, Archer B, Carroll L, Ambati BK. RNA activating-double stranded RNA targeting flt-1 promoter inhibits endothelial cell proliferation through soluble FLT-1 upregulation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0193590. [PMID: 29509796 PMCID: PMC5839558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Short-activating RNA (saRNA), which targets gene promoters, has been shown to increase the target gene expression. In this study, we describe the use of an saRNA (Flt a-1) to target the flt-1 promoter, leading to upregulation of the soluble isoform of Flt-1 and inhibition of angiogenesis. We demonstrate that Flt a-1 increased sFlt-1 mRNA and protein levels, while reducing VEGF expression. This was associated with suppression of human umbilical vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. HUVEC migration and tube formation were also suppressed by Flt a-1. An siRNA targeting Flt-1 blocked the effects of Flt a-1. Flt a-1 effects were not mediated via argonaute proteins. However, trichostatin A and 5'-deoxy-5'-(methylthio) adenosine inhibited Flt a-1 effects, indicating that histone acetylation and methylation are mechanistically involved in RNA activation of Flt-1. In conclusion, RNA activation of sFlt-1 can be used to inhibit angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Choi
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Hironori Uehara
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Subrata Das
- Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar, India
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Bonnie Archer
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Lara Carroll
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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Jyotsana N, Heuser M. Exploiting differential RNA splicing patterns: a potential new group of therapeutic targets in cancer. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2017; 22:107-121. [PMID: 29235382 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1417390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mutations in genes associated with splicing have been found in hematologic malignancies, but also in solid cancers. Aberrant cancer specific RNA splicing either results from mutations or misexpression of the spliceosome genes directly, or from mutations in splice sites of oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Areas covered: In this review, we present molecular targets of aberrant splicing in various malignancies, information on existing and emerging therapeutics against such targets, and strategies for future drug development. Expert opinion: Alternative splicing is an important mechanism that controls gene expression, and hence pharmacologic and genetic control of aberrant alternative RNA splicing has been proposed as a potential therapy in cancer. To identify and validate aberrant RNA splicing patterns as therapeutic targets we need to (1) characterize the most common genetic aberrations of the spliceosome and of splice sites, (2) understand the dysregulated downstream pathways and (3) exploit in-vivo disease models of aberrant splicing. Antisense oligonucleotides show promising activity, but will benefit from improved delivery tools. Inhibitors of mutated splicing factors require improved specificity, as alternative and aberrant splicing are often intertwined like two sides of the same coin. In summary, targeting aberrant splicing is an early but emerging field in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Jyotsana
- a Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
| | - Michael Heuser
- a Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation , Hannover Medical School , Hannover , Germany
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12
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Li G, Miao F, Zhu J, Chen Y. Anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma via systemic injection of mesenchymal stem cells engineered to secrete soluble Flt‑1. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:5799-5806. [PMID: 28849176 PMCID: PMC5865760 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy has attracted interest as a potential treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Studies have indicated that soluble fms‑like tyrosine kinase‑1 (sFlt‑1) may suppress angiogenesis by sequestering free vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or by forming inactive heterodimers with VEGF receptor‑2. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used as prospective delivery vehicles for therapeutic agents, owing to their ability to migrate towards tumor sites. In the present study, a subcutaneous HCC mouse model was used to assess the anti‑angiogenesis effects of lentivirus‑transfected MSCs engineered to secrete sFlt‑1 (LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs). LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs effectively secreted sFlt‑1, which inhibited tube formation in vitro. MSCs labeled with green fluorescence protein primarily migrated to tumor sites in vivo. An immunohistochemical assay indicated that microvessel density was reduced in mice treated with LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs, compared with the control group treated with PBS. Additionally, LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival in an HCC mouse model via systemic injection. Overall, the present study was designed to investigate the potential of LV‑sFlt‑1‑MSCs for anti‑angiogenesis gene therapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanglin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Fei Miao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Fuzhou, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Jinhai Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Yanling Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
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13
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Uehara H, Muddana SK, Zhang X, Das SK, Bhuvanagiri S, Liu J, Wu Y, Choi S, Carroll LS, Archer B, Ambati BK. Targeted Delivery of FLT-Morpholino Using Cyclic RGD Peptide. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2017; 6:9. [PMID: 28553563 PMCID: PMC5444505 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.6.3.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We previously showed that intravitreal injection of the sFLT morpholino-oligomer (FLT-MO) suppresses laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice by decreasing the membrane bound form of Flt-1 while increasing the soluble form of Flt-1 via alternative splicing shift. In this study, we examined whether cyclic RGD peptide (cRGD) can promote morpholino-oligomer accumulation in CNV following tail vein injection, and whether systemic cRGD conjugated FLT-MO (cRGD-FLT-MO) suppresses CNV growth. Methods cRGD conjugated fluorescent morpholino-oligomer (cRGD-F-MO) was injected via tail vein into mice with previous retinal laser photocoagulation and examined for cRGD-F-MO accumulation in CNV. To examine whether cRGD-FLT-MO suppresses CNV growth, mice were tail-vein injected with cRGD-FLT-MO, cRGD conjugated standard morpholino-oligomer (cRGD-STD-MO), or Dulbecco's Phosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS) 1 and 4 days postlaser photocoagulation. Seven days postlaser photocoagulation, eyes were harvested and laser CNV was stained with isolectin GS-IB4, allowing quantification of CNV size by confocal microscopy. Results cRGD-F-MO accumulation in CNV commenced immediately after tail vein injection and could be observed even 1 day after injection. cRGD-FLT-MO tail vein injection significantly suppressed CNV size (2.7 × 105 ± 0.3 × 105 μm3, P < 0.05 by Student's t-test) compared with controls (DPBS: 5.1 × 105 ± 0.6 × 105 μm3 and cRGD-STD-MO: 5.5 × 105 ± 0.8 × 105 μm3). Conclusions cRGD peptide facilitates morpholino-oligomer accumulation in CNV following systemic delivery. cRGD-FLT-MO suppressed CNV growth after tail-vein injection, demonstrating the potential utility of cRGD peptide for morpholino-oligomer delivery to CNV. Translational Relevance Current therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration involves intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs. Our results indicate that CNV can be treated systemically, thus eliminating risks and hazards associated with intravitreal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Uehara
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Xiaohui Zhang
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Subrata Kumar Das
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sai Bhuvanagiri
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jinlu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Eye Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Susie Choi
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lara S Carroll
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bonnie Archer
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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14
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Abou-Fayçal C, Hatat AS, Gazzeri S, Eymin B. Splice Variants of the RTK Family: Their Role in Tumour Progression and Response to Targeted Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020383. [PMID: 28208660 PMCID: PMC5343918 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) belong to a family of transmembrane receptors that display tyrosine kinase activity and trigger the activation of downstream signalling pathways mainly involved in cell proliferation and survival. RTK amplification or somatic mutations leading to their constitutive activation and oncogenic properties have been reported in various tumour types. Numerous RTK-targeted therapies have been developed to counteract this hyperactivation. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA has recently emerged as an important contributor to cancer development and tumour maintenance. Interestingly, RTKs are alternatively spliced. However, the biological functions of RTK splice variants, as well as the upstream signals that control their expression in tumours, remain to be understood. More importantly, it remains to be determined whether, and how, these splicing events may affect the response of tumour cells to RTK-targeted therapies, and inversely, whether these therapies may impact these splicing events. In this review, we will discuss the role of alternative splicing of RTKs in tumour progression and response to therapies, with a special focus on two major RTKs that control proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis, namely, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherine Abou-Fayçal
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Anne-Sophie Hatat
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Sylvie Gazzeri
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Beatrice Eymin
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
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15
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Villegas-Pineda JC, Toledo-Leyva A, Osorio-Trujillo JC, Hernández-Ramírez VI, Talamás-Rohana P. The translational blocking of α5 and α6 integrin subunits affects migration and invasion, and increases sensitivity to carboplatin of SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cell line. Exp Cell Res 2017; 351:127-134. [PMID: 28131812 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. Integrins, overexpressed in cancer, are involved in various processes that favor the development of the disease. This study focused on determining the degree of involvement of α5, α6 and β3 integrin subunits in the establishment/development of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), such as proliferation, migration, invasion, and response to carboplatin. The translation of the α5, α6 and β3 integrins was blocked using morpholines, generating morphant cells for these proteins, which were corroborated by immunofluorescence assays. WST-1 proliferation assay showed that silencing of α5, α6, and β3 integrins does not affect the survival of morphants. Wound healing and transwell chamber assays showed that blocking α5 and α6 integrins decrease, in lesser and greater level respectively, the migratory and the invasive capacity of SKOV-3 cells. Finally, blocking α5 and α6 integrins partially sensitized the cells response to carboplatin, while blocking integrin β3 generated resistance to this drug. Statistical analyses were performed with the GraphPad Prism 5.0 software employing one way and two-way ANOVA tests; data are shown as average±SD. Results suggest that α5 and α6 integrins could become good candidates for chemotherapy targets in EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio César Villegas-Pineda
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Alfredo Toledo-Leyva
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Juan Carlos Osorio-Trujillo
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Verónica Ivonne Hernández-Ramírez
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Patricia Talamás-Rohana
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Delegación Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
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16
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Havens MA, Hastings ML. Splice-switching antisense oligonucleotides as therapeutic drugs. Nucleic Acids Res 2016; 44:6549-63. [PMID: 27288447 PMCID: PMC5001604 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkw533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 290] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) are short, synthetic, antisense, modified nucleic acids that base-pair with a pre-mRNA and disrupt the normal splicing repertoire of the transcript by blocking the RNA–RNA base-pairing or protein–RNA binding interactions that occur between components of the splicing machinery and the pre-mRNA. Splicing of pre-mRNA is required for the proper expression of the vast majority of protein-coding genes, and thus, targeting the process offers a means to manipulate protein production from a gene. Splicing modulation is particularly valuable in cases of disease caused by mutations that lead to disruption of normal splicing or when interfering with the normal splicing process of a gene transcript may be therapeutic. SSOs offer an effective and specific way to target and alter splicing in a therapeutic manner. Here, we discuss the different approaches used to target and alter pre-mRNA splicing with SSOs. We detail the modifications to the nucleic acids that make them promising therapeutics and discuss the challenges to creating effective SSO drugs. We highlight the development of SSOs designed to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, which are currently being tested in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory A Havens
- Department of Biology, Lewis University, Romeoville, IL 60446, USA
| | - Michelle L Hastings
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
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17
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The corpora lutea proangiogenic state of VEGF system components is turned to antiangiogenic at the later phase of the oestrous cycle in cows. Animal 2015; 9:301-7. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114002274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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18
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Stagg BC, Uehara H, Lambert N, Rai R, Gupta I, Radmall B, Bates T, Ambati BK. Morpholino-Mediated Isoform Modulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR2) Reduces Colon Cancer Xenograft Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2014; 6:2330-42. [PMID: 25534570 PMCID: PMC4276969 DOI: 10.3390/cancers6042330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Revised: 10/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a key role in tumor growth. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a pro-angiogenic that is involved in tumor angiogenesis. When VEGF binds to membrane-bound vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (mVEGFR2), it promotes angiogenesis. Through alternative polyadenylation, VEGFR2 is also expressed in a soluble form (sVEGFR2). sVEGFR2 sequesters VEGF and is therefore anti-angiogenic. The aim of this study was to show that treatment with a previously developed and reported antisense morpholino oligomer that shifts expression from mVEGFR2 to sVEGFR2 would lead to reduced tumor vascularization and growth in a murine colon cancer xenograft model. Xenografts were generated by implanting human HCT-116 colon cancer cells into the flanks of NMRI nu/nu mice. Treatment with the therapeutic morpholino reduced both tumor growth and tumor vascularization. Because the HCT-116 cells used for the experiments did not express VEGFR2 and because the treatment morpholino targeted mouse rather than human VEGFR2, it is likely that treatment morpholino was acting on the mouse endothelial cells rather than directly on the tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Stagg
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Hironori Uehara
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Nathan Lambert
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Ruju Rai
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Isha Gupta
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Bryce Radmall
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Taylor Bates
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Balamurali K Ambati
- John A Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
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19
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Zhang X, Das SK, Passi SF, Uehara H, Bohner A, Chen M, Tiem M, Archer B, Ambati BK. AAV2 delivery of Flt23k intraceptors inhibits murine choroidal neovascularization. Mol Ther 2014; 23:226-34. [PMID: 25306972 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2014.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term inhibition of extracellular vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may induce retinal neuronal toxicity and risk other side effects. We developed a novel strategy which inhibits retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-derived VEGF, sparing other highly sensitive retinal tissues. Flt23k, an intraceptor inhibitor of VEGF, was able to inhibit VEGF in vitro. Adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2)-mediated expression of Flt23k was maintained for up to 6 months postsubretinal injection in mice. Flt23k was able to effectively inhibit laser-induced murine choroidal neovascularization (CNV). VEGF levels in the RPE/choroid complex decreased significantly in AAV2.Flt23k treated eyes. Neither retinal structure detected by Heidelberg Spectralis nor function measured by electroretinography (ERG) was adversely affected by treatment with AAV2.Flt23k. Hence AAV2.Flt23k can effectively maintain long-term expression and inhibit laser-induced CNV in mice through downregulation of VEGF while maintaining a sound retinal safety profile. These findings suggest a promising novel approach for the treatment of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Zhang
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Subrata K Das
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Samuel F Passi
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Austin Bohner
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Marcus Chen
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Michelle Tiem
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Bonnie Archer
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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20
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Disterer P, Kryczka A, Liu Y, Badi YE, Wong JJ, Owen JS, Khoo B. Development of therapeutic splice-switching oligonucleotides. Hum Gene Ther 2014; 25:587-98. [PMID: 24826963 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2013.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) target nuclear pre-mRNA molecules to change exon splicing and generate an alternative protein isoform. Clinical trials with two competitive SSO drugs are underway to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Beyond DMD, many additional therapeutic applications are possible, with some in phase 1 clinical trials or advanced preclinical evaluation. Here, we present an overview of the central factors involved in developing therapeutic SSOs for the treatment of diseases. The selection of susceptible pre-mRNA target sequences, as well as the design and chemical modification of SSOs to increase SSO stability and effectiveness, are key initial considerations. Identification of effective SSO target sequences is still largely empirical and published guidelines are not a universal guarantee for success. Specifically, exon-targeted SSOs, which are successful in modifying dystrophin splicing, can be ineffective for splice-switching in other contexts. Chemical modifications, importantly, are associated with certain characteristic toxicities, which need to be addressed as target diseases require chronic treatment with SSOs. Moreover, SSO delivery in adequate quantities to the nucleus of target cells without toxicity can prove difficult. Last, the means by which these SSOs are administered needs to be acceptable to the patient. Engineering an efficient therapeutic SSO, therefore, necessarily entails a compromise between desirable qualities and effectiveness. Here, we describe how the application of optimal solutions may differ from case to case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Disterer
- 1 Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, University College London , London, NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
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21
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Owen LA, Morrison MA, Ahn J, Woo SJ, Sato H, Robinson R, Morgan DJ, Zacharaki F, Simeonova M, Uehara H, Chakravarthy U, Hogg RE, Ambati BK, Kotoula M, Baehr W, Haider NB, Silvestri G, Miller JW, Tsironi EE, Farrer LA, Kim IK, Park KH, DeAngelis MM. FLT1 genetic variation predisposes to neovascular AMD in ethnically diverse populations and alters systemic FLT1 expression. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2014; 55:3543-54. [PMID: 24812550 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.14-14047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Current understanding of the genetic risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is not sufficiently predictive of the clinical course. The VEGF pathway is a key therapeutic target for treatment of neovascular AMD; however, risk attributable to genetic variation within pathway genes is unclear. We sought to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with AMD within the VEGF pathway. METHODS Using a tagSNP, direct sequencing and meta-analysis approach within four ethnically diverse cohorts, we identified genetic risk present in FLT1, though not within other VEGF pathway genes KDR, VEGFA, or VASH1. We used ChIP and ELISA in functional analysis. RESULTS The FLT1 SNPs rs9943922, rs9508034, rs2281827, rs7324510, and rs9513115 were significantly associated with increased risk of neovascular AMD. Each association was more significant after meta-analysis than in any one of the four cohorts. All associations were novel, within noncoding regions of FLT1 that do not tag for coding variants in linkage disequilibrium. Analysis of soluble FLT1 demonstrated higher expression in unaffected individuals homozygous for the FLT1 risk alleles rs9943922 (P = 0.0086) and rs7324510 (P = 0.0057). In silico analysis suggests that these variants change predicted splice sites and RNA secondary structure, and have been identified in other neovascular pathologies. These data were supported further by murine chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrating that FLT1 is a target of Nr2e3, a nuclear receptor gene implicated in regulating an AMD pathway. CONCLUSIONS Although exact variant functions are not known, these data demonstrate relevancy across ethnically diverse genetic backgrounds within our study and, therefore, hold potential for global efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah A Owen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Margaux A Morrison
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Jeeyun Ahn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hajime Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Rosann Robinson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Denise J Morgan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Fani Zacharaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Marina Simeonova
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth E Hogg
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Balamurali K Ambati
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Maria Kotoula
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Wolfgang Baehr
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Neena B Haider
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Giuliana Silvestri
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Joan W Miller
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Evangelia E Tsironi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Thessaly, School of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Lindsay A Farrer
- Departments of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Ophthalmology, Neurology, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, Boston University Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Ivana K Kim
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Kyu Hyung Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Margaret M DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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Ferguson DP, Dangott LJ, Lightfoot JT. Lessons learned from vivo-morpholinos: How to avoid vivo-morpholino toxicity. Biotechniques 2014; 56:251-6. [PMID: 24806225 DOI: 10.2144/000114167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vivo-morpholinos are a promising tool for gene silencing. These oligonucleotide analogs transiently silence genes by blocking either translation or pre-mRNA splicing. Little to no toxicity has been reported for vivo-morpholino treatment. However, in a recent study conducted in our lab, treatment of mice with vivo-morpholinos resulted in high mortality rates. We hypothesized that the deaths were the result of oligonucleotide hybridization, causing an increased cationic charge associated with the dendrimer delivery moiety of the vivo-morpholino. The cationic charge increased blood clot formation in whole blood treated with vivo-morpholinos, suggesting that clotting could have caused cardiac arrest in the deceased mice. Therefore, we investigate the mechanism by which some vivo-morpholinos increase mortality rates and propose techniques to alleviate vivo-morpholino toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Ferguson
- Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Biology of Physical Activity Laboratory, Dept. of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Lawrence J Dangott
- Protein Chemistry Laboratory, Dept. of Biochemistry/Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - J Timothy Lightfoot
- Biology of Physical Activity Laboratory, Dept. of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
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23
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Goyal A, Chavez SL, Reijo Pera RA. Generation of human induced pluripotent stem cells using epigenetic regulators reveals a germ cell-like identity in partially reprogrammed colonies. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82838. [PMID: 24349377 PMCID: PMC3861446 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be derived from fibroblasts by ectopic expression of four transcription factors, OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and c-MYC using various methods. More recent studies have focused on identifying alternative approaches and factors that can be used to increase reprogramming efficiency of fibroblasts to pluripotency. Here, we use nucleofection, morpholino technologies and novel epigenetic factors, which were chosen based on their expression profile in human embryos, fibroblasts and undifferentiated/differentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and conventionally generated iPSCs, to reprogram human fibroblasts into iPSCs. By over expressing DNMT3B, AURKB, PRMT5 and/or silencing SETD7 in human fibroblasts with and without NANOG, hTERT and/or SV40 overexpression, we observed the formation of colonies resembling iPSCs that were positive for certain pluripotency markers, but exhibited minimal proliferation. More importantly, we also demonstrate that these partially-reprogrammed colonies express high levels of early to mid germ cell-specific genes regardless of the transfection approach, which suggests conversion to a germ cell-like identity is associated with early reprogramming. These findings may provide an additional means to evaluate human germ cell differentiation in vitro, particularly in the context of pluripotent stem cell-derived germ cell development, and contribute to our understanding of the epigenetic requirements of the reprogramming process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshi Goyal
- Center for Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Shawn L. Chavez
- Center for Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Renee A. Reijo Pera
- Center for Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
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24
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Zarbin MA, Arlow T, Ritch R. Regenerative nanomedicine for vision restoration. Mayo Clin Proc 2013; 88:1480-90. [PMID: 24290123 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2013.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we discuss recent applications of nanotechnology to ophthalmology, including nanoparticles for drug, gene, and trophic factor delivery; regenerative medicine (in the areas of optogenetics and optic nerve regeneration); and diagnostics (eg, minimally invasive biometric monitoring). Specific applications for the management of choroidal neovascularization, retinal neovascularization, oxidative damage, optic nerve damage, and retinal degenerative disease are considered. Nanotechnology will play an important role in early- and late-stage interventions in the management of blinding diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Zarbin
- Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ.
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U1 snRNP-Dependent Suppression of Polyadenylation: Physiological Role and Therapeutic Opportunities in Cancer. Int J Cell Biol 2013; 2013:846510. [PMID: 24285958 PMCID: PMC3826338 DOI: 10.1155/2013/846510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-mRNA splicing and polyadenylation are critical steps in the maturation of eukaryotic mRNA. U1 snRNP is an essential component of the splicing machinery and participates in splice-site selection and spliceosome assembly by base-pairing to the 5' splice site. U1 snRNP also plays an additional, nonsplicing global function in 3' end mRNA processing; it actively suppresses the polyadenylation machinery from using early, mostly intronic polyadenylation signals which would lead to aberrant, truncated mRNAs. Thus, U1 snRNP safeguards pre-mRNA transcripts against premature polyadenylation and contributes to the regulation of alternative polyadenylation. Here, we review the role of U1 snRNP in 3' end mRNA processing, outline the evidence that led to the recognition of its physiological, general role in inhibiting polyadenylation, and finally highlight the possibility of manipulating this U1 snRNP function for therapeutic purposes in cancer.
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Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most commonly performed organ transplantation. Immune privilege of the cornea is widely recognized, partly because of the relatively favorable outcome of corneal grafts. The first-time recipient of corneal allografts in an avascular, low-risk setting can expect a 90% success rate without systemic immunosuppressive agents and histocompatibility matching. However, immunologic rejection remains the major cause of graft failure, particularly in patients with a high risk for rejection. Corticosteroids remain the first-line therapy for the prevention and treatment of immune rejection. However, current pharmacological measures are limited in their side-effect profiles, repeated application, lack of targeted response, and short duration of action. Experimental ocular gene therapy may thus present new horizons in immunomodulation. From efficient viral vectors to sustainable alternative splicing, we discuss the progress of gene therapy in promoting graft survival and postulate further avenues for gene-mediated prevention of allogeneic graft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yureeda Qazi
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Havens MA, Duelli DM, Hastings ML. Targeting RNA splicing for disease therapy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2013; 4:247-66. [PMID: 23512601 PMCID: PMC3631270 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Splicing of pre-messenger RNA into mature messenger RNA is an essential step for the expression of most genes in higher eukaryotes. Defects in this process typically affect cellular function and can have pathological consequences. Many human genetic diseases are caused by mutations that cause splicing defects. Furthermore, a number of diseases are associated with splicing defects that are not attributed to overt mutations. Targeting splicing directly to correct disease-associated aberrant splicing is a logical approach to therapy. Splicing is a favorable intervention point for disease therapeutics, because it is an early step in gene expression and does not alter the genome. Significant advances have been made in the development of approaches to manipulate splicing for therapy. Splicing can be manipulated with a number of tools including antisense oligonucleotides, modified small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), trans-splicing, and small molecule compounds, all of which have been used to increase specific alternatively spliced isoforms or to correct aberrant gene expression resulting from gene mutations that alter splicing. Here we describe clinically relevant splicing defects in disease states, the current tools used to target and alter splicing, specific mutations and diseases that are being targeted using splice-modulating approaches, and emerging therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory A. Havens
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. No conflicts of interest
| | - Dominik M. Duelli
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA. No conflicts of interest
| | - Michelle L. Hastings
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA, Phone: 847-578-8517 Fax: 847-578-3253. No conflicts of interest
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Ferguson DP, Schmitt EE, Lightfoot JT. Vivo-morpholinos induced transient knockdown of physical activity related proteins. PLoS One 2013; 8:e61472. [PMID: 23630592 PMCID: PMC3632599 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical activity is associated with disease prevention and overall wellbeing. Additionally there has been evidence that physical activity level is a result of genetic influence. However, there has not been a reliable method to silence candidate genes in vivo to determine causal mechanisms of physical activity regulation. Vivo-morpholinos are a potential method to transiently silence specific genes. Thus, the aim of this study was to validate the use of Vivo-morpholinos in a mouse model for voluntary physical activity with several sub-objectives. We observed that Vivo-morpholinos achieved between 60–97% knockdown of Drd1-, Vmat2-, and Glut4-protein in skeletal muscle, the delivery moiety of Vivo-morpholinos (scramble) did not influence physical activity and that a cocktail of multiple Vivo-morpholinos can be given in a single treatment to achieve protein knockdown of two different targeted proteins in skeletal muscle simultaneously. Knocking down Drd1, Vmat2, or Glut4 protein in skeletal muscle did not affect physical activity. Vivo-morpholinos injected intravenously alone did not significantly knockdown Vmat2-protein expression in the brain (p = 0.28). However, the use of a bradykinin analog to increase blood-brain-barrier permeability in conjunction with the Vivo-morpholinos significantly (p = 0.0001) decreased Vmat2-protein in the brain with a corresponding later over-expression of Vmat2 coincident with a significant (p = 0.0016) increase in physical activity. We conclude that Vivo-morpholinos can be a valuable tool in determining causal gene-phenotype relationships in whole animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Ferguson
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of the present review is to describe new antilymphangiogenic treatment strategies and recent findings on strain-dependency of corneal lymphangiogenesis and the interdependency between blood and lymphatic vessel growth. RECENT FINDINGS Studies on mice have revealed that apart from haemangiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis can also differ markedly between several mouse strains under normal and inflammatory conditions. Although haemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are closely interconnected in their spatial-temporal patterning, recent data suggest that they can also occur independently. SUMMARY Understanding the coordinated regulation of blood and lymphatic vessel growth and genetic factors determining lymphangiogenesis in more detail could improve the development of specifically targeted antihaemangiogenic or antilymphangiogenic strategies.
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Cho YK, Zhang X, Uehara H, Young JR, Archer B, Ambati B. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 morpholino increases graft survival in a murine penetrating keratoplasty model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2012; 53:8458-71. [PMID: 23150613 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-10408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study sought to determine whether a Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 (VEGFR1)-specific morpholino (MO) could decrease neovascularization, thereby enhancing murine cornea transplant survival, and if this effect is synergistic with steroid therapy. METHODS Graft survival, corneal neovascularization, and corneal lymphangiogenesis were compared among the VEGFR1_MO, STD MO and PBS groups following subconjunctival injection in mice that underwent normal risk penetrating keratoplasty (NR PK) and high-risk penetrating keratoplasty (HR PK). Graft survival, corneal neovascularization, and corneal lymphangiogenesis in groups treated with both VEGFR1_MO and steroid therapy were also analyzed in HR PK. RESULTS In NR PK, the VEGFR1_MO decreased angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and increased graft survival compared with the PBS group (P = 0.055, P = 0.003, P = 0.043, respectively). In HR PK, VEGFR1_MO decreased angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and increased graft survival compared with the STD MO (P = 0.000, P = 0.000, P = 0.029, respectively) and PBS groups (P = 0.004, P = 0.002, P = 0.024). In HR PK, when the VEGFR1_MO was combined with steroid therapy, a significant increase in graft survival was seen compared with steroid treatment alone (P = 0.045). The 2-month graft survival rate for HR PK was 27% in the combination group compared with 0% in the triamcinolone only group. CONCLUSIONS VEGFR1_MO decreased angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, resulting in increased graft survival in both NR PK and HR PK. This beneficial effect is synergistically enhanced with steroid treatment in HR PK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Kyung Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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Evans DGR, Wallace A, Newman W. Can manipulation of splicing offer gene therapy possibilities to those with tumour-prone disorders? Eur J Hum Genet 2012. [PMID: 23188050 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2012.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- D Gareth R Evans
- Genetic Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK.
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