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Niu Y, Ji J, Yao K, Fu Q. Regenerative treatment of ophthalmic diseases with stem cells: Principles, progress, and challenges. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2024; 4:52-64. [PMID: 38586868 PMCID: PMC10997875 DOI: 10.1016/j.aopr.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Degenerate eye disorders, such as glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), are prevalent causes of blindness and visual impairment worldwide. Other eye disorders, including limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), dry eye diseases (DED), and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), result in symptoms such as ocular discomfort and impaired visual function, significantly impacting quality of life. Traditional therapies are limited, primarily focus on delaying disease progression, while emerging stem cell therapy directly targets ocular tissues, aiming to restore ocular function by reconstructing ocular tissue. Main text The utilization of stem cells for the treatment of diverse degenerative ocular diseases is becoming increasingly significant, owing to the regenerative and malleable properties of stem cells and their functional cells. Currently, stem cell therapy for ophthalmopathy involves various cell types, such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). In the current article, we will review the current progress regarding the utilization of stem cells for the regeneration of ocular tissue covering key eye tissues from the cornea to the retina. These therapies aim to address the loss of functional cells, restore damaged ocular tissue and or in a paracrine-mediated manner. We also provide an overview of the ocular disorders that stem cell therapy is targeting, as well as the difficulties and opportunities in this field. Conclusions Stem cells can not only promote tissue regeneration but also release exosomes to mitigate inflammation and provide neuroprotection, making stem cell therapy emerge as a promising approach for treating a wide range of eye disorders through multiple mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Niu
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junfeng Ji
- Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ke Yao
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qiuli Fu
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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2
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Xia Y, Chen K, Yang Q, Chen Z, Jin L, Zhang L, Yu X, Wang L, Xie C, Zhao Y, Shen Y, Tong J. Methylation in cornea and corneal diseases: a systematic review. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:169. [PMID: 38589350 PMCID: PMC11002037 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01935-2] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases are among the primary causes of blindness and vision loss worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of corneal diseases remains elusive, and diagnostic and therapeutic tools are limited. Thus, identifying new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases has gained great interest. Methylation, a type of epigenetic modification, modulates various cellular processes at both nucleic acid and protein levels. Growing evidence shows that methylation is a key regulator in the pathogenesis of corneal diseases, including inflammation, fibrosis, and neovascularization, making it an attractive potential therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the major alterations of methylation and demethylation at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels in corneal diseases and how these dynamics contribute to the pathogenesis of corneal diseases. Also, we provide insights into identifying potential biomarkers of methylation that may improve the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Kuangqi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qianjie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhitong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Le Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyue Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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3
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Ueki M, Suzuki T, Kato Y. Large-scale cultivation of human iPS cells in bioreactor with reciprocal mixing. J Biosci Bioeng 2024; 137:149-155. [PMID: 38185598 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
A substantial number of human iPS cells (hiPSCs) is needed for cell therapy to be successful against various diseases. We previously reported on a bioreactor with reciprocal mixing that produces specific physical properties that differ from those of conventional bioreactors with rotary paddle stirring. Moreover, such reactors not only provide a homogeneous environment but also allow the control of spheroid size by changing the mixing speed. In this study, we applied this bioreactor to the large-scale cultivation of hiPSCs. Approximately 10 billion hiPSCs were obtained from 2.0 L of culture, and the high expression of pluripotency markers was maintained. Our findings indicate that a bioreactor with reciprocal mixing can be used for large-scale hiPSC cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Ueki
- Glycometabolic Biochemistry Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.
| | - Tadashi Suzuki
- Glycometabolic Biochemistry Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Kato
- Glycometabolic Biochemistry Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Mixing Technology Laboratory, Satake Multimix Corporation, 60 Niizo, Toda, Saitama 335-0021, Japan
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4
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Selvarajah K, Tan JJ, Shaharuddin B. Corneal Epithelial Development and the Role of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Regeneration. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:292-306. [PMID: 36915985 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230313094121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Severe corneal disorders due to infective aetiologies, trauma, chemical injuries, and chronic cicatricial inflammations, are among vision-threatening pathologies leading to permanent corneal scarring. The whole cornea or lamellar corneal transplantation is often used as a last resort to restore vision. However, limited autologous tissue sources and potential adverse post-allotransplantation sequalae urge the need for more robust and strategic alternatives. Contemporary management using cultivated corneal epithelial transplantation has paved the way for utilizing stem cells as a regenerative potential. Humaninduced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can generate ectodermal progenitors and potentially be used for ocular surface regeneration. This review summarizes the process of corneal morphogenesis and the signaling pathways underlying the development of corneal epithelium, which is key to translating the maturation and differentiation process of hiPSCs in vitro. The current state of knowledge and methodology for driving efficient corneal epithelial cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komathi Selvarajah
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Jun Jie Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Bakiah Shaharuddin
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
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5
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Abdalkader RK, Fujita T. Corneal epithelium models for safety assessment in drug development: Present and future directions. Exp Eye Res 2023; 237:109697. [PMID: 37890755 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The human corneal epithelial barrier plays a crucial role in drug testing studies, including drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME), as well as toxicity testing during the preclinical stages of drug development. However, despite the valuable insights gained from animal and current in vitro models, there remains a significant discrepancy between preclinical drug predictions and actual clinical outcomes. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on adhering to the 3R principles (refine, reduce, replace) to minimize the use of animals in testing. To tackle these challenges, there is a rising demand for alternative in vitro models that closely mimic the human corneal epithelium. Recently, remarkable advancements have been made in two key areas: microphysiological systems (MPS) or organs-on-chips (OoCs), and stem cell-derived organoids. These cutting-edge platforms integrate four major disciplines: stem cells, microfluidics, bioprinting, and biosensing technologies. This integration holds great promise in developing powerful and biomimetic models of the human cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodi Kado Abdalkader
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan.
| | - Takuya Fujita
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
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6
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Ajgaonkar BS, Kumaran A, Kumar S, Jain RD, Dandekar PP. Cell-based Therapies for Corneal and Retinal Disorders. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2650-2682. [PMID: 37704835 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10623-0] [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] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance of the visual function is the desired outcome of ophthalmologic therapies. The shortcomings of the current treatment options, like partial recovery, post-operation failure, rigorous post-operative care, complications, etc., which are usually encountered with the conventional treatment options has warranted newer treatment options that may eliminate the root cause of diseases and minimize the side effects. Cell therapies, a class of regenerative medicines, have emerged as cutting-edge treatment option. The corneal and retinal dystrophies during the ocular disorders are the major cause of blindness, worldwide. Corneal disorders are mainly categorized mainly into corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial disorders. On the other hand, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, Stargardt Disease, choroideremia, Leber congenital amaurosis are then major retinal degenerative disorders. In this manuscript, we have presented a detailed overview of the development of cell-based therapies, using embryonic stem cells, bone marrow stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, dental pulp stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, limbal stem cells, corneal epithelial, stromal and endothelial, embryonic stem cell-derived differentiated cells (like retinal pigment epithelium or RPE), neural progenitor cells, photoreceptor precursors, and bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells etc. The manuscript highlights their efficiency, drawbacks and the strategies that have been explored to regain visual function in the preclinical and clinical state associated with them which can be considered for their potential application in the development of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargavi Suryakant Ajgaonkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Akash Kumaran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Salil Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Ratnesh D Jain
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prajakta P Dandekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India.
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7
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Cadenas-Martin M, Arnalich-Montiel F, Miguel MPD. Derivation of Limbal Stem Cells from Human Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032350. [PMID: 36768672 PMCID: PMC9916480 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10 million individuals have blindness due to limbal stem cell (LSCs) deficiency, one of the most challenging problems in ophthalmology. To replenish the LSC pool, an autologous extraocular cell source is appropriate, thereby avoiding the risk of immune rejection, the need for immunosuppression and the risk of damaging the contralateral eye. In recent years, adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) have been a key element in ocular regenerative medicine. In this study, we developed a protocol for deriving human LSCs from ADSCs compatible with the standard carrier human amniotic membrane, helping provide a stem cell pool capable of maintaining proper corneal epithelial homeostasis. The best protocol included an ectodermal induction step by culturing ADSCs with media containing fetal bovine serum, transforming growth factor-β inhibitor SB-505124, Wnt inhibitor IWP-2 and FGF2 for 7 days, followed by an LSC induction step of culture in modified supplemental hormonal epithelial medium supplemented with pigment epithelium-derived factor and keratinocyte growth factor for 10 additional days. The optimal differentiation efficiency was achieved when cells were cultured in this manner over vitronectin coating, resulting in up to 50% double-positive αp63/BMI-1 cells. The results of this project will benefit patients with LSC deficiency, aiding the restoration of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cadenas-Martin
- Cell Engineering Laboratory, La Paz University Hospital Health Research Institute, IdiPAZ, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Arnalich-Montiel
- Ophthalmology Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria P De Miguel
- Ophthalmology Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-912-071458
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8
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Okawa R, Sogawa K, Shiozaki M, Yachiku K, Miura T, Shibata T, Ezoe S. The effects of continuous exposure to low-dose chlorine dioxide gas on the characteristics of induced pluripotent stem cells. Regen Ther 2022; 21:250-257. [PMID: 36092508 PMCID: PMC9420961 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ryoma Okawa
- Department of Space Infection Control, Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Koushirou Sogawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shonan University of Medical Sciences, 16-10, Kamishinano, Totsuka, Yokohama, Kanagawa 244-0806, Japan
- Corresponding author. Fax: +81 6 6105 5243
| | - Motoko Shiozaki
- Department of Space Infection Control, Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kenji Yachiku
- Department of Space Infection Control, Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takanori Miura
- Department of Space Infection Control, Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takashi Shibata
- Strategic Global Partnership Cross-Innovation Initiative, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ezoe
- Department of Space Infection Control, Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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9
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Enosawa S. Clinical Trials of Stem Cell Therapy in Japan: The Decade of Progress under the National Program. J Clin Med 2022; 11:7030. [PMID: 36498605 PMCID: PMC9736364 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11237030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is a current world-wide topic in medical science. Various therapies have been approved based on their effectiveness and put into practical use. In Japan, research and development-related stem cell therapy, generally referred to as regenerative medicine, has been led by the government. The national scheme started in 2002, and support for the transition to clinical trials has been accelerating since 2011. Of the initial 18 projects that were accepted in the budget for preclinical research, 15 projects have begun clinical trials so far. These include the transplantation of retinal, cardiac, and dopamine-producing cells differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and hepatocyte-like cells differentiated from human embryonic stem (ES) cells. The distinctive feature of the stem cell research in Japan is the use of iPS cells. A national framework was also been set-up to attain the final goal: health insurance coverage. Now, insurance covers cell transplantation therapies for the repair and recovery of damaged skin, articular cartilage, and stroke as well as therapies introduced from abroad, such as allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells for graft-versus-host disease and chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell therapy. To prepare this review, original information was sought from Japanese authentic websites, which are reliable but a little hard to access due to the fact of multiple less-organized databases and the language barrier. Then, each fact was corroborated by citing its English version or publication in international journals as much as possible. This review provides a summary of progress over the past decade under the national program and a state-of-the-art factual view of research activities, government policy, and regulation in Japan for the realization of stem cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Enosawa
- Division for Advanced Medical Sciences, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
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10
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Menzel-Severing J, Spaniol K, Groeber-Becker F, Geerling G. [Regenerative medicine for the corneal epithelium : Cell therapy from bench to bedside]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2022; 119:891-901. [PMID: 35925345 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-022-01674-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In the case of thermal or caustic burns of the ocular surface, loss of limbal epithelial stem cells leads to compromised self-renewal of the corneal epithelium. This results in permanent loss of vision. In these situations, transplantation of cultured limbal epithelial cells on an amniotic membrane or fibrin gel as substrate (Holoclar®) can help to regenerate the corneal surface. The required cells are obtained from the healthy partner eye, if available. Adult stem cells from other parts of the body potentially serve as alternative cell sources: hair follicles, oral mucosa, mesenchymal stromal cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells (originally, e.g., skin fibroblasts). The reprogramming of such cells can be achieved with the help of transcription factors. In addition, work is being done on biosynthetic or synthetic matrices, which not only serve as substrate material for the transplantation but also support the functional properties of these cells (self-renewal, corneal epithelial-typical phenotype).
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Menzel-Severing
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
| | - Kristina Spaniol
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - Florian Groeber-Becker
- Translationszentrum Regenerative Therapien | TLZ-RT, Leitung In-vitro-Testsysteme, Fraunhofer-Institut für Silicatforschung ISC, Würzburg, Deutschland
| | - Gerd Geerling
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Corneal Cells: Current Status and Application. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:2817-2832. [PMID: 35913555 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10435-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Deficiency and dysfunction of corneal cells leads to the blindness observed in corneal diseases such as limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and bullous keratopathy. Regenerative cell therapies and engineered corneal tissue are promising treatments for these diseases [1]. However, these treatments are not yet clinically feasible due to inadequate cell sources. The discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by Shinya Yamanaka has provided a multitude of opportunities in research because iPSCs can be generated from somatic cells, thus providing an autologous and unlimited source for corneal cells. Compared to other stem cell sources such as mesenchymal and embryonic, iPSCs have advantages in differentiation potential and ethical concerns, respectively. Efforts have been made to use iPSCs to model corneal disorders and diseases, drug testing [2], and regenerative medicine [1]. Autologous treatments based on iPSCs can be exorbitantly expensive and time-consuming, but development of stem cell banks with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)- homozygous cell lines can provide cost- and time-efficient allogeneic alternatives. In this review, we discuss the early development of the cornea because protocols differentiating iPSCs toward corneal lineages rely heavily upon recapitulating this development. Differentiation of iPSCs toward corneal cell phenotypes have been analyzed with an emphasis on feeder-free, xeno-free, and well-defined protocols, which have clinical relevance. The application, challenges, and potential of iPSCs in corneal research are also discussed with a focus on hurdles that prevent clinical translation.
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12
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Advances in Allogeneic Cancer Cell Therapy and Future Perspectives on “Off-the-Shelf” T Cell Therapy Using iPSC Technology and Gene Editing. Cells 2022; 11:cells11020269. [PMID: 35053386 PMCID: PMC8773622 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of allogeneic cell therapy was first presented over 60 years ago with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, complications such as graft versus host disease (GVHD) and regimen-related toxicities remained as major obstacles. To maximize the effect of graft versus leukemia, while minimizing the effect of GVHD, donor lymphocyte infusion was utilized. This idea, which was used against viral infections, postulated that adoptive transfer of virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes could reconstitute specific immunity and eliminate virus infected cells and led to the idea of banking third party cytotoxic T cells (CTLs). T cell exhaustion sometimes became a problem and difficulty arose in creating robust CTLs. However, the introduction of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) lessens such problems, and by using iPSC technology, unlimited numbers of allogeneic rejuvenated CTLs with robust and proliferative cytotoxic activity can be created. Despite this revolutionary concept, several concerns still exist, such as immunorejection by recipient cells and safety issues of gene editing. In this review, we describe approaches to a feasible “off-the-shelf” therapy that can be distributed rapidly worldwide. We also offer perspectives on the future of allogeneic cell cancer immunotherapy.
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Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) Enhances the Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells into Limbal Progenitor Cells. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:2124-2134. [PMID: 34940121 PMCID: PMC8929048 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal epithelium maintains visual acuity and is regenerated by the proliferation and differentiation of limbal progenitor cells. Transplantation of human limbal progenitor cells could restore the integrity and functionality of the corneal surface in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency. However, multiple protocols are employed to differentiate human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells into corneal epithelium or limbal progenitor cells. The aim of this study was to optimize a protocol that uses bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and limbal cell-specific medium. Human dermal fibroblast-derived iPS cells were differentiated into limbal progenitor cells using limbal cell-specific (PI) medium and varying doses (1, 10, and 50 ng/mL) and durations (1, 3, and 10 days) of BMP4 treatment. Differentiated human iPS cells were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting, and immunocytochemical studies at 2 or 4 weeks after BMP4 treatment. Culturing human dermal fibroblast-derived iPS cells in limbal cell-specific medium and BMP4 gave rise to limbal progenitor and corneal epithelial-like cells. The optimal protocol of 10 ng/mL and three days of BMP4 treatment elicited significantly higher limbal progenitor marker (ABCG2, ∆Np63α) expression and less corneal epithelial cell marker (CK3, CK12) expression than the other combinations of BMP4 dose and duration. In conclusion, this study identified a successful reprogramming strategy to induce limbal progenitor cells from human iPS cells using limbal cell-specific medium and BMP4. Additionally, our experiments indicate that the optimal BMP4 dose and duration favor limbal progenitor cell differentiation over corneal epithelial cells and maintain the phenotype of limbal stem cells. These findings contribute to the development of therapies for limbal stem cell deficiency disorders.
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Sundaravadivelu PK, Raina K, Thool M, Ray A, Joshi JM, Kaveeshwar V, Sudhagar S, Lenka N, Thummer RP. Tissue-Restricted Stem Cells as Starting Cell Source for Efficient Generation of Pluripotent Stem Cells: An Overview. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1376:151-180. [PMID: 34611861 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have vast biomedical potential concerning disease modeling, drug screening and discovery, cell therapy, tissue engineering, and understanding organismal development. In the year 2006, a groundbreaking study reported the generation of iPSCs from mouse embryonic fibroblasts by viral transduction of four transcription factors, namely, Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc. Subsequently, human iPSCs were generated by reprogramming fibroblasts as a starting cell source using two reprogramming factor cocktails [(i) OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, and c-MYC, and (ii) OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, and LIN28]. The wide range of applications of these human iPSCs in research, therapeutics, and personalized medicine has driven the scientific community to optimize and understand this reprogramming process to achieve quality iPSCs with higher efficiency and faster kinetics. One of the essential criteria to address this is by identifying an ideal cell source in which pluripotency can be induced efficiently to give rise to high-quality iPSCs. Therefore, various cell types have been studied for their ability to generate iPSCs efficiently. Cell sources that can be easily reverted to a pluripotent state are tissue-restricted stem cells present in the fetus and adult tissues. Tissue-restricted stem cells can be isolated from fetal, cord blood, bone marrow, and other adult tissues or can be obtained by differentiation of embryonic stem cells or trans-differentiation of other tissue-restricted stem cells. Since these cells are undifferentiated cells with self-renewal potential, they are much easier to reprogram due to the inherent characteristic of having an endogenous expression of few pluripotency-inducing factors. This review presents an overview of promising tissue-restricted stem cells that can be isolated from different sources, namely, neural stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, limbal epithelial stem cells, and spermatogonial stem cells, and their reprogramming efficacy. This insight will pave the way for developing safe and efficient reprogramming strategies and generating patient-specific iPSCs from tissue-restricted stem cells derived from various fetal and adult tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar Sundaravadivelu
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Khyati Raina
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Madhuri Thool
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.,Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Guwahati, Changsari, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Arnab Ray
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Jahnavy Madhukar Joshi
- Central Research Laboratory, SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University, Dharwad, Karnataka, India
| | - Vishwas Kaveeshwar
- Central Research Laboratory, SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University, Dharwad, Karnataka, India
| | - S Sudhagar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Guwahati, Changsari, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Nibedita Lenka
- National Centre for Cell Science, S. P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Rajkumar P Thummer
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.
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15
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Goals and Challenges of Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Corneal Blindness Due to Limbal Deficiency. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091483. [PMID: 34575560 PMCID: PMC8466237 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal failure is a highly prevalent cause of blindness. One special cause of corneal failure occurs due to malfunction or destruction of the limbal stem cell niche, upon which the superficial cornea depends for homeostatic maintenance and wound healing. Failure of the limbal niche is referred to as limbal stem cell deficiency. As the corneal epithelial stem cell niche is easily accessible, limbal stem cell-based therapy and regenerative medicine applied to the ocular surface are among the most highly advanced forms of this novel approach to disease therapy. However, the challenges are still great, including the development of cell-based products and understanding how they work in the patient's eye. Advances are being made at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels to alter disease processes and to reduce or eliminate blindness. Efforts must be coordinated from the most basic research to the most clinically oriented projects so that cell-based therapies can become an integrated part of the therapeutic armamentarium to fight corneal blindness. We undoubtedly are progressing along the right path because cell-based therapy for eye diseases is one of the most successful examples of global regenerative medicine.
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16
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Borziak K, Parvanova I, Finkelstein J. ReMeDy: a platform for integrating and sharing published stem cell research data with a focus on iPSC trials. Database (Oxford) 2021; 2021:baab038. [PMID: 34156448 PMCID: PMC8218701 DOI: 10.1093/database/baab038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Recent regenerative medicine studies have emphasized the need for increased standardization, harmonization and sharing of information related to stem cell product characterization, to help drive these innovative interventions toward public availability and to increase collaboration in the scientific community. Although numerous attempts and numerous databases have been made to manage these data, a platform that incorporates all the heterogeneous data collected from stem cell projects into a harmonized project-based framework is still lacking. The aim of the database, which is described in this study, is to provide an intelligent informatics solution that integrates comprehensive characterization of diverse stem cell product characteristics with research subject and project outcome information. In the resulting platform, heterogeneous data are validated using predefined ontologies and stored in a relational database, to ensure data quality and ease of access. Testing was performed using 51 published, publically available induced pluripotent stem cell projects conducted in clinical, preclinical and in-vitro evaluations. Future aims of this project include further increasing the database size to include all published stem cell trials and develop additional data visualization tools to improve usability. Our testing demonstrated the robustness of the proposed platform, by seamlessly harmonizing diverse common data elements, and the potential of this platform for driving knowledge generation from the aggregation and harmonization of these diverse data. DATABASE URL https://remedy.mssm.edu/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Borziak
- Center for Biomedical and Population Health Informatics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, Icahn L2-36, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Irena Parvanova
- Center for Biomedical and Population Health Informatics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, Icahn L2-36, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Joseph Finkelstein
- Center for Biomedical and Population Health Informatics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, Icahn L2-36, New York, NY 10029, USA
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17
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Anton-Sales I, Koivusalo L, Skottman H, Laromaine A, Roig A. Limbal Stem Cells on Bacterial Nanocellulose Carriers for Ocular Surface Regeneration. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2003937. [PMID: 33586332 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202003937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are already used in cell-based treatments for ocular surface disorders. Clinical translation of LSCs-based therapies critically depends on the successful delivery, survival, and retention of these therapeutic cells to the desired region. Such a major bottleneck could be overcome by using an appropriate carrier to provide anchoring sites and structural support to LSC culture and transplantation. Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is an appealing, yet unexplored, candidate for this application because of its biocompatibility, animal-free origin and mechanical stability. Here, BNC as a vehicle for human embryonic stem cells-derived LSC (hESC-LSC) are investigated. To enhance cell-biomaterial interactions, a plasma activation followed by a Collagen IV and Laminin coating of the BNC substrates is implemented. This surface functionalization with human extracellular matrix proteins greatly improved the attachment and survival of hESC-LSC without compromising the flexible, robust and semi-transparent nature of the BNC. The surface characteristics of the BNC substrates are described and a preliminary ex vivo test in simulated transplantation scenarios is provided. Importantly, it is shown that hESC-LSC retain their self-renewal and stemness characteristics up to 21 days on BNC substrates. These results open the door for future research on hESC-LSC/BNC constructs to treat severe ocular surface pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Anton-Sales
- Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain
| | - Laura Koivusalo
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, Tampere, 33520, Finland
| | - Anna Laromaine
- Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain
| | - Anna Roig
- Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain
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18
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Adil MT, Henry JJ. Understanding cornea epithelial stem cells and stem cell deficiency: Lessons learned using vertebrate model systems. Genesis 2021; 59:e23411. [PMID: 33576188 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Animal models have contributed greatly to our understanding of human diseases. Here, we focus on cornea epithelial stem cell (CESC) deficiency (commonly called limbal stem cell deficiency, LSCD). Corneal development, homeostasis and wound healing are supported by specific stem cells, that include the CESCs. Damage to or loss of these cells results in blindness and other debilitating ocular conditions. Here we describe the contributions from several vertebrate models toward understanding CESCs and LSCD treatments. These include both mammalian models, as well as two aquatic models, Zebrafish and the amphibian, Xenopus. Pioneering developments have been made using stem cell transplants to restore normal vision in patients with LSCD, but questions still remain about the basic biology of CESCs, including their precise cell lineages and behavior in the cornea. We describe various cell lineage tracing studies to follow their patterns of division, and the fates of their progeny during development, homeostasis, and wound healing. In addition, we present some preliminary results using the Xenopus model system. Ultimately, a more thorough understanding of these cornea cells will advance our knowledge of stem cell biology and lead to better cornea disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Tayyab Adil
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jonathan J Henry
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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19
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Sun C, Wang H, Ma Q, Chen C, Yue J, Li B, Zhang X. Time-course single-cell RNA sequencing reveals transcriptional dynamics and heterogeneity of limbal stem cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:24. [PMID: 33485387 PMCID: PMC7824938 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00541-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human pluripotent stem cell-derived limbal stem cells (hPSC-derived LSCs) provide a promising cell source for corneal transplants and ocular surface reconstruction. Although recent efforts in the identification of LSC markers have increased our understanding of the biology of LSCs, much more remains to be characterized in the developmental origin, cell fate determination, and identity of human LSCs. The lack of knowledge hindered the establishment of efficient differentiation protocols for generating hPSC-derived LSCs and held back their clinical application. RESULTS Here, we performed a time-course single-cell RNA-seq to investigate transcriptional heterogeneity and expression changes of LSCs derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Based on current protocol, expression heterogeneity of reported LSC markers were identified in subpopulations of differentiated cells. EMT has been shown to occur during differentiation process, which could possibly result in generation of untargeted cells. Pseudotime trajectory analysis revealed transcriptional changes and signatures of commitment of hESCs-derived LSCs and their progeny-the transit amplifying cells. CONCLUSION Single-cell RNA-seq revealed time-course expression changes and significant transcriptional heterogeneity during hESC-derived LSC differentiation in vitro. Our results demonstrated candidate developmental trajectory and several new candidate markers for LSCs, which could facilitate elucidating the identity and developmental origin of human LSCs in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changbin Sun
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China.,BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518083, China.,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China
| | - Hailun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Qiwang Ma
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China.,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China
| | - Chao Chen
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China.,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China
| | - Jianhui Yue
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China.,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China.,Section of Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bo Li
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China. .,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China.
| | - Xi Zhang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518083, China. .,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518082, China.
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20
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Ashworth S, Harrington J, Hammond GM, Bains KK, Koudouna E, Hayes AJ, Ralphs JR, Regini JW, Young RD, Hayashi R, Nishida K, Hughes CE, Quantock AJ. Chondroitin Sulfate as a Potential Modulator of the Stem Cell Niche in Cornea. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:567358. [PMID: 33511110 PMCID: PMC7835413 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.567358] [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: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is an important component of the extracellular matrix in multiple biological tissues. In cornea, the CS glycosaminoglycan (GAG) exists in hybrid form, whereby some of the repeating disaccharides are dermatan sulfate (DS). These CS/DS GAGs in cornea, through their presence on the proteoglycans, decorin and biglycan, help control collagen fibrillogenesis and organization. CS also acts as a regulatory ligand for a spectrum of signaling molecules, including morphogens, cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes during corneal growth and development. There is a growing body of evidence that precise expression of CS or CS/DS with specific sulfation motifs helps define the local extracellular compartment that contributes to maintenance of the stem cell phenotype. Indeed, recent evidence shows that CS sulfation motifs recognized by antibodies 4C3, 7D4, and 3B3 identify stem cell populations and their niches, along with activated progenitor cells and transitional areas of tissue development in the fetal human elbow. Various sulfation motifs identified by some CS antibodies are also specifically located in the limbal region at the edge of the mature cornea, which is widely accepted to represent the corneal epithelial stem cell niche. Emerging data also implicate developmental changes in the distribution of CS during corneal morphogenesis. This article will reflect upon the potential roles of CS and CS/DS in maintenance of the stem cell niche in cornea, and will contemplate the possible involvement of CS in the generation of eye-like tissues from human iPS (induced pluripotent stem) cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Ashworth
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,School of Biosciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Jodie Harrington
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Department of Stem Cells and Applied Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Greg M Hammond
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Kiranjit K Bains
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Koudouna
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony J Hayes
- School of Biosciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - James R Ralphs
- School of Biosciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Justyn W Regini
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Robert D Young
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Ryuhei Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cells and Applied Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Clare E Hughes
- School of Biosciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Quantock
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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21
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Nosrati H, Alizadeh Z, Nosrati A, Ashrafi-Dehkordi K, Banitalebi-Dehkordi M, Sanami S, Khodaei M. Stem cell-based therapeutic strategies for corneal epithelium regeneration. Tissue Cell 2020; 68:101470. [PMID: 33248403 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2020.101470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Any significant loss of vision or blindness caused by corneal damages is referred to as corneal blindness. Corneal blindness is the fourth most common cause of blindness worldwide, representing more than 5% of the total blind population. Currently, corneal transplantation is used to treat many corneal diseases. In some cases, implantation of artificial cornea (keratoprosthesis) is suggested after a patient has had a donor corneal transplant failure. The shortage of donors and the side effects of keratoprosthesis are limiting these approaches. Recently, researchers have been actively pursuing new approaches for corneal regeneration because of these limitations. Nowadays, tissue engineering of different corneal layers (epithelium, stroma, endothelium, or full thickness tissue) is a promising approach that has attracted a great deal of interest from researchers and focuses on regenerative strategies using different cell sources and biomaterials. Various sources of corneal and non-corneal stem cells have shown significant advantages for corneal epithelium regeneration applications. Pluripotent stem cells (embryonic stem cells and iPS cells), epithelial stem cells (derived from oral mucus, amniotic membrane, epidermis and hair follicle), mesenchymal stem cells (bone marrow, adipose-derived, amniotic membrane, placenta, umbilical cord), and neural crest origin stem cells (dental pulp stem cells) are the most promising sources in this regard. These cells could also be used in combination with natural or synthetic scaffolds to improve the efficacy of the therapeutic approach. As the ocular surface is exposed to external damage, the number of studies on regeneration of the corneal epithelium is rising. In this paper, we reviewed the stem cell-based strategies for corneal epithelium regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Nosrati
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Zohreh Alizadeh
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran; Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ali Nosrati
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Korosh Ashrafi-Dehkordi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mehdi Banitalebi-Dehkordi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Samira Sanami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khodaei
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Golpayegan University of Technology, Golpayegan, Iran
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22
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Hancox Z, Heidari Keshel S, Yousaf S, Saeinasab M, Shahbazi MA, Sefat F. The progress in corneal translational medicine. Biomater Sci 2020; 8:6469-6504. [PMID: 33174878 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01209b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cornea tissue is in high demand by tissue donation centres globally, and thus tissue engineering cornea, which is the main topic of corneal translational medicine, can serve as a limitless alternative to a donated human cornea tissue. Tissue engineering aims to produce solutions to the challenges associated with conventional cornea tissue, including transplantation and use of human amniotic membrane (HAM), which have issues with storage and immune rejection in patients. Accordingly, by carefully selecting biomaterials and fabrication methods to produce these therapeutic tissues, the demand for cornea tissue can be met, with an improved healing outcome for recipients with less associated harmful risks. In this review paper, we aim to present the recent advancements in the research and clinical applications of cornea tissue, applications including biomaterial selection, fabrication methods, scaffold structure, cellular response to these scaffolds, and future advancements of these techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Hancox
- Department of Biomedical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK.
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23
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Nosrati H, Abpeikar Z, Mahmoudian ZG, Zafari M, Majidi J, Alizadeh A, Moradi L, Asadpour S. Corneal epithelium tissue engineering: recent advances in regeneration and replacement of corneal surface. Regen Med 2020; 15:2029-2044. [PMID: 33169642 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2019-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, many corneal diseases are treated by corneal transplantation, artificial corneal implantation or, in severe cases, keratoprosthesis. Owing to the shortage of cornea donors and the risks involved with artificial corneal implants, such as infection transmission, researchers continually seek new approaches for corneal regeneration. Corneal tissue engineering is a promising approach that has attracted much attention from researchers and is focused on regenerative strategies using various biomaterials in combination with different cell types. These constructs should have the ability to mimic the native tissue microenvironment and present suitable optical, mechanical and biological properties. In this article, we review studies that have focused on the current clinical techniques for corneal replacement. We also describe tissue-engineering and cell-based approaches for corneal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Nosrati
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Zahra Abpeikar
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Zahra Gholami Mahmoudian
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Medical School, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mahdi Zafari
- Department of Bacteriology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Majidi
- Cellular & Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Science Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Akram Alizadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Lida Moradi
- The Ronald O Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, New York University, School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016 USA
| | - Shiva Asadpour
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.,Cellular & Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Science Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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24
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Theerakittayakorn K, Thi Nguyen H, Musika J, Kunkanjanawan H, Imsoonthornruksa S, Somredngan S, Ketudat-Cairns M, Parnpai R. Differentiation Induction of Human Stem Cells for Corneal Epithelial Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7834. [PMID: 33105778 PMCID: PMC7660084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Deficiency of corneal epithelium causes vision impairment or blindness in severe cases. Transplantation of corneal epithelial cells is an effective treatment but the availability of the tissue source for those cells is inadequate. Stem cells can be induced to differentiate to corneal epithelial cells and used in the treatment. Multipotent stem cells (mesenchymal stem cells) and pluripotent stem cells (embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells) are promising cells to address the problem. Various protocols have been developed to induce differentiation of the stem cells into corneal epithelial cells. The feasibility and efficacy of both human stem cells and animal stem cells have been investigated for corneal epithelium regeneration. However, some physiological aspects of animal stem cells are different from those of human stem cells, the protocols suited for animal stem cells might not be suitable for human stem cells. Therefore, in this review, only the investigations of corneal epithelial differentiation of human stem cells are taken into account. The available protocols for inducing the differentiation of human stem cells into corneal epithelial cells are gathered and compared. Also, the pathways involving in the differentiation are provided to elucidate the relevant mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasem Theerakittayakorn
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Hong Thi Nguyen
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Jidapa Musika
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Hataiwan Kunkanjanawan
- Medeze Research and Development Co., Ltd. 28/9 Moo 8, Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Rd., Krathum Lom, Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom 73220, Thailand;
| | - Sumeth Imsoonthornruksa
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Sirilak Somredngan
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Mariena Ketudat-Cairns
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand; (K.T.); (H.T.N.); (J.M.); (S.I.); (S.S.); (M.K.-C.)
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Zhao M, Zhang H, Zhen D, Huang M, Li W, Li Z, Liu Y, Xie Y, Zeng B, Wang Z, Huang B. Corneal Recovery Following Rabbit Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell-Amniotic Membrane Transplantation with Antivascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency Rabbits. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2020; 26:541-552. [PMID: 33019886 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2020.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a refractory ocular surface disorder characterized by progressive corneal epithelial degeneration, conjunctivalization, and neovascularization, potentially leading to blindness. There are currently no effective therapeutic options for patients experiencing routine symptomatic treatment failure. Transplantation of amniotic membrane (AM) with adherent stem cells (but not bare AM transplantation alone) has shown promise in preclinical studies for ocular surface restoration. A major limitation, however, is finding a reliable stem cell source. Stem cells can be isolated from the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) population, and these PBMC-derived stem cells have numerous advantages over allogeneic and other autologous stem cell types for therapeutic application, including relative ease of acquisition, nonimmunogenicity, and the absence of ethical issues associated with embryonic stem cells. Experiment: We examined the efficacy of autologous PBMC-AM sheet cultures combined with postoperative antiangiogenesis treatment for corneal restoration in LSCD model rabbits. Rabbit PBMCs (rPBMCs) were isolated, labeled with EdU for in vivo tracing, and then cultured on AMs in conditioned medium before transplantation. Rabbits were transplanted with bare AMs (group 1), rPBMC-AM sheets (group 2), or rPBMC-AM sheets plus postoperative treatment with the vascular endothelial growth factor antagonist bevacizumab (group 3). Corneal opacity and neovascularization were monitored by slit-lamp imaging for 8 weeks and corneas were examined histologically at 1 and 2 months. Results: Corneal opacity decreased in all three groups over 8 weeks, but was significantly lower in group 2 and even lower in group 3. Corneal neovascularization was significantly higher in group 1 throughout the observation period, and significantly lower in group 3 than group 1 and 2 by 8 weeks post-transplant. At 4 weeks, the corneal surface completed epithelialization (although thinner than normal) in group 3 but still patchy in groups 1 and 2. By 8 weeks, the epithelium in group 3 was complete and smooth, resembling a normal epithelium. Integrin β1 as a progenitor marker was also generally higher in groups 2 and 3. Conclusions: Autologous rPBMC-AM sheets with post-transplant topical bevacizumab can effectively facilitate corneal epithelium recovery in a LSCD model, suggesting clinical utility for LSCD-related ocular surface diseases. Impact statement Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) increases corneal opacity and vascularization, resulting in severe visual impairment or even blindness. Traditional surgical limbal transplant is currently the main treatment option for LSCD, but carries the risks of rejection and immunosuppressant side effects. Autologous stem cell-based therapy is a promising alternative approach, but a reliable stem cell source is a major limitation. We report that transplantation of autologous rabbit peripheral blood mononuclear cell-amniotic membrane sheets plus antivascular endothelial growth factor restored avascular transparent cornea in a rabbit LSCD model. These results demonstrate a potentially effective approach for ocular surface reconstruction in bilateral LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Hening Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Dongqin Zhen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | | | - Weihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Zhiquan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Yaojue Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Baozhu Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Zhichong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
| | - Bing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, GuangZhou, China
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26
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He J, Ou S, Ren J, Sun H, He X, Zhao Z, Wu H, Qu Y, Liu T, Jeyalatha V, Zhang L, Li Q, Reinach PS, Quantock A, Hao J, Liu Z, Li W. Tissue engineered corneal epithelium derived from clinical-grade human embryonic stem cells. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:672-680. [PMID: 32710961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To construct tissue engineered corneal epithelium from a clinical-grade human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and investigate the dynamic gene profile and phenotypic transition in the process of differentiation. METHODS A stepwise protocol was applied to induce differentiation of clinical-grade hESCs Q-CTS-hESC-1 and construct tissue engineered corneal epithelium. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was performed to monitor gene expression and phenotypic changes at different differentiation stages. Immunostaining, real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis were conducted to detect gene and protein expressions. After subcutaneous transplantation into nude mice to test the biosafety, the epithelial construct was transplanted in a rabbit corneal limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) model and followed up for eight weeks. RESULTS The hESCs were successfully induced into epithelial cells. scRNA-seq analysis revealed upregulation of ocular surface epithelial cell lineage related genes such as TP63, Pax6, KRT14, and activation of Wnt, Notch, Hippo, and Hedgehog signaling pathways during the differentiation process. Tissue engineered epithelial cell sheet derived from hESCs showed stratified structure and normal corneal epithelial phenotype with presence of clonogenic progenitor cells. Eight weeks after grafting the cell sheet onto the ocular surface of LSCD rabbit model, a full-thickness continuous corneal epithelium developed to fully cover the damaged areas with normal limbal and corneal epithelial phenotype. CONCLUSION The tissue engineered corneal epithelium generated from a clinical-grade hESCs may be feasible in the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia He
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Shangkun Ou
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Jun Ren
- School of Informatics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Huimin Sun
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Xin He
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Zhongyang Zhao
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Han Wu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Yangluowa Qu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Vimalin Jeyalatha
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Liying Zhang
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Qiyuan Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China
| | - Peter Sol Reinach
- Wenzhou Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Wenzhou Medical University, Department of Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Andrew Quantock
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Jie Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Zuguo Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China.; Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Xiamen University Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, China.; Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Xiamen University Affiliated Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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Corneal Stem Cells as a Source of Regenerative Cell-Based Therapy. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:8813447. [PMID: 32765614 PMCID: PMC7388005 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8813447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few years, intensive research has focused on corneal stem cells as an unlimited source for cell-based therapy in regenerative ophthalmology. Today, it is known that the cornea has at least two types of stem cells: limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) and corneal stromal stem cells (CSSCs). LESCs are used for regeneration of corneal surface, while CSSCs are used for regeneration of corneal stroma. Until now, various approaches and methods for isolation of LESCs and CSSCs and their successful transplantation have been described and tested in several preclinical studies and clinical trials. This review describes in detail phenotypic characteristics of LESCs and CSSCs and discusses their therapeutic potential in corneal regeneration. Since efficient and safe corneal stem cell-based therapy is still a challenging issue that requires continuous cooperation between researchers, clinicians, and patients, this review addresses the important limitations and suggests possible strategies for improvement of corneal stem cell-based therapy.
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da Mata Martins TM, da Silva Cunha P, Rodrigues MA, de Carvalho JL, de Souza JE, de Carvalho Oliveira JA, Gomes DA, de Goes AM. Epithelial basement membrane of human decellularized cornea as a suitable substrate for differentiation of embryonic stem cells into corneal epithelial-like cells. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 116:111215. [PMID: 32806330 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ability to decellularize and recellularize the corneas deemed unsuitable for transplantation may increase the number of available grafts. Decellularized corneas (DCs) may provide a natural microenvironment for cell adhesion and differentiation. Despite this, no study to date has evaluated their efficacy as a substrate for the induction of stem cell differentiation into corneal cells. The present study aimed to compare the efficiency of NaCl and NaCl plus nucleases methods to decellularize whole human corneas, and to investigate the effect of epithelial basement membrane (EBM) of whole DCs on the ability of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to differentiate into corneal epithelial-like cells when cultured in animal serum-free differentiation medium. As laminin is the major component of EBM, we also investigated its effect on hESCs differentiation. The decellularization efficiency and integrity of the extracellular matrix (ECM) obtained were investigated by histology, electron microscopy, DNA quantification, immunofluorescence, and nuclear staining. The ability of hESCs to differentiate into corneal epithelial-like cells when seeded on the EBM of DCs or laminin-coated wells was evaluated by immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR analyses. NaCl treatment alone, without nucleases, was insufficient to remove cellular components, while NaCl plus nucleases treatment resulted in efficient decellularization and preservation of the ECM. Unlike cells induced to differentiate on laminin, hESCs differentiated on DCs expressed high levels of corneal epithelial-specific markers, keratin 3 and keratin 12. It was demonstrated for the first time that the decellularized matrices had a positive effect on the differentiation of hESCs towards corneal epithelial-like cells. Such a strategy supports the potential applications of human DCs and hESCs in corneal epithelium tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Maria da Mata Martins
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Pricila da Silva Cunha
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Michele Angela Rodrigues
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lott de Carvalho
- Department of Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasilia, QS 07 - Lote 01, EPCT - Taguatinga, Brasília, Distrito Federal 71966-700, Brazil; Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, Distrito Federal 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Joyce Esposito de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Junnia Alvarenga de Carvalho Oliveira
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Dawidson Assis Gomes
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Alfredo Miranda de Goes
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Shrestha R, Wen YT, Tsai RK. Induced pluripotent stem cells and derivative photoreceptor precursors as therapeutic cells for retinal degenerations. Tzu Chi Med J 2020; 32:101-112. [PMID: 32269941 PMCID: PMC7137374 DOI: 10.4103/tcmj.tcmj_147_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The visual impairment associated with inherited retinal degeneration and age-related degeneration of photoreceptors is causing substantial challenges in finding effective therapies. However, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived therapeutic cells such as photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells provide the ultimate options in the rescue of lost photoreceptors to improve the visual function in end-stage degeneration. Retinal cells derived from iPSC are therapeutic cells that could be promising in the field of cell replacement therapy and regenerative medicine. This review presents an overview of the photoreceptor degeneration, methods of iPSC generation, iPSC in retinal disease modeling, summarizes the photoreceptor differentiation protocols, and challenges remained with photoreceptor cell replacement for the treatment of retinal diseases. Thus, the burden and increased incidence of visual impairment emphasizes the need of novel therapy, where iPSC-derived photoreceptor and RPE cells proved to be promising for curing the retinal dysfunction and act as renovation in approach to improve visual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupendra Shrestha
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.,Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Tseng Wen
- Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Kung Tsai
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.,Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
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30
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Bai J, Wang C. Organoids and Microphysiological Systems: New Tools for Ophthalmic Drug Discovery. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:407. [PMID: 32317971 PMCID: PMC7147294 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are adept at preserving the inherent complexity of a given cellular environment and when integrated with engineered micro-physiological systems (MPS) present distinct advantages for simulating a precisely controlled geometrical, physical, and biochemical micro-environment. This then allows for real-time monitoring of cell-cell interactions. As a result, the two aforementioned technologies hold significant promise and potential in studying ocular physiology and diseases by replicating specific eye tissue microstructures in vitro. This miniaturized review begins with defining the science behind organoids/MPS and subsequently introducing methods for generating organoids and engineering MPS. Furthermore, we will discuss the current state of organoids and MPS models in retina, cornea surrogates, and other ocular tissue, in regards to physiological/disease conditions. Finally, future prospective on organoid/MPS will be covered here. Organoids and MPS technologies closely recapture the in vivo microenvironment and thusly will continue to provide new understandings in organ functions and novel approaches to drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Bai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Chunming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
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31
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Systematic Review on Therapeutic Strategies to Minimize Corneal Stromal Scarring After Injury. Eye Contact Lens 2020; 45:347-355. [PMID: 30724841 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate recent studies on available and experimental therapies in preventing or minimizing corneal stromal scarring after injury. METHODS We performed an Entrez PubMed literature search using keywords "cornea," "scarring," "haze," "opacity," "ulcer," "treatments," "therapies," "treatment complications," and "pathophysiology" resulting in 390 articles of which 12 were analyzed after filtering, based on English language and publication within 8 years, and curation for relevance by the authors. RESULTS The 12 articles selected included four randomized control trials (RCTs) (two were double-blinded placebo-controlled RCTs, one was a prospective partially masked RCT, and one was an open-label RCT), two retrospective observational studies, and six laboratory-based studies including two studies having in vivo and in vitro experiments, one was in vivo study, one was ex vivo study, and the last two were in vitro studies. The current mainstay for preventing or minimizing corneal scarring involves the use of topical corticosteroids and local application of mitomycin C. However, supportive evidence for their use in clinical practice from well-designed RCTs is lacking. Laboratory studies on topical rosiglitazone therapy, vitamin C prophylaxis, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy have shown promising results but have yet to be translated to clinical research. CONCLUSION There is a need for more robust randomized controlled trials to support treatments using topical corticosteroids and mitomycin C. Furthermore, their clinical efficacy and safety profile should be compared with new treatments that have shown promising results in the laboratory setting. Ultimately, the goal should be to personalize cornea scarring treatment according to the most effective treatment for the specific underlying pathology.
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32
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Clinical Trials of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency Treated with Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020411. [PMID: 31936462 PMCID: PMC7014181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal surface is an essential organ necessary for vision, and its clarity must be maintained. The corneal epithelium is renewed by limbal stem cells, located in the limbus and in palisades of Vogt. Palisades of Vogt maintain the clearness of the corneal epithelium by blocking the growth of conjunctival epithelium and the invasion of blood vessels over the cornea. The limbal region can be damaged by chemical burns, physical damage (e.g., by contact lenses), congenital disease, chronic inflammation, or limbal surgeries. The degree of limbus damage is associated with the degree of limbal stem cells deficiency (partial or total). For a long time, the only treatment to restore vision was grafting part of the healthy cornea from the other eye of the patient or by transplanting a cornea from cadavers. The regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies have been applied to restore normal vision using different methodologies. The source of stem cells varies from embryonic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, to induced pluripotent stem cells. This review focuses on the use of oral mucosa epithelial stem cells and their use in engineering cell sheets to treat limbal stem cell deficient patients.
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33
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Bandeira F, Goh TW, Setiawan M, Yam GHF, Mehta JS. Cellular therapy of corneal epithelial defect by adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived epithelial progenitors. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:14. [PMID: 31900226 PMCID: PMC6942321 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1533-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Persistent epithelial defects (PED), associated with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), require ocular surface reconstruction with a stable corneal epithelium (CE). This study investigated CE reformation using human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC), which derived epithelial progenitors via mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). Methods STEMPRO human ADSC were cultured with specific inhibitors antagonizing glycogen synthase kinase-3 and transforming growth factor-β signaling, followed by culture under a defined progenitor cell targeted-epithelial differentiation condition to generate epithelial-like cells (MET-Epi), which were characterized for cell viability, mesenchymal, and epithelial phenotypes using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Tissue-engineered (TE) MET-Epi cells on fibrin gel were transplanted to corneal surface of the rat LSCD model caused by alkali injury. Epithelial healing, corneal edema, and haze grading, CE formation were assessed by fluorescein staining, slit lamp bio-microscopy, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, and immunohistochemistry. Results CD73high/CD90high/CD105high/CD166high/CD14negative/CD31negative human ADSC underwent MET, giving viable epithelial-like progenitors expressing δNp63, CDH1 (E-cadherin), epidermal growth factor receptor, integrin-β4, and cytokeratin (CK)-5, 9. Under defined epithelial differentiation culture, these progenitors generated MET-Epi cells expressing cell junction proteins ZO1 and occludin. When transplanted onto rat corneal surface with LSCD-induced PED, TE-MET-Epi achieved more efficient epithelial healing, suppressed corneal edema, and opacities, when compared to corneas without treatment or transplanted with TE-ADSC. CE markers (CK3, 12, and CDH1) were expressed on TE-MET-Epi-transplanted corneas but not in other control groups. Conclusion Human ADSC-derived epithelial-like cells, via MET, recovered the CE from PED associated with LSCD. ADSC can be a viable adult stem cell source for potential autologous epithelial cell-based therapy for corneal surface disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Bandeira
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, The Academia, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore, 169856, Singapore.,Federal University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tze-Wei Goh
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, The Academia, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore, 169856, Singapore
| | - Melina Setiawan
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, The Academia, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore, 169856, Singapore
| | - Gary Hin-Fai Yam
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, The Academia, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore, 169856, Singapore. .,Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, The Academia, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore, 169856, Singapore. .,Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore. .,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore. .,School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
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34
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Li Z, Duan H, Li W, Hu X, Jia Y, Zhao C, Zhang S, Zhou Q, Shi W. Rapid Differentiation of Multi-Zone Ocular Cells from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Generation of Corneal Epithelial and Endothelial Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2019; 28:454-463. [PMID: 30712489 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Eye is a complex organ with a highly specialized tissue structure. The establishment of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) has allowed the simulation of eye development in vitro. Most differentiation works of hPSC-derived ocular cells focus on a single, tissue-specific lineage, however, that faces difficulty in reflecting the complexity of eye development. Recently, the generation of a self-formed ectodermal autonomous multi-zone of ocular cells availably mimics the process of whole-eye development. In this study, we developed a rapid defined method to induce the differentiation of multi-zone ocular cells (MZOCs) from human induced pluripotent stem cells, which specifically experienced the key progenitor stages of anterior neuroectoderm and eye field stem cells by a 2.5-dimensional culture. These differentiated cell types spanned neural retina, retinal pigment epithelium, surface ectoderm, and neural crest and lens cells. In addition, the surface ectoderm zone of MZOCs could be mechanically isolated and induced into corneal epithelial cells, and the isolated neural crest zone could be directed into corneal endothelial cells. This in vitro differentiation process vividly mimics the development of vertebrate eye, and it provides a promising model for the study of ocular morphogenesis, as well as an ideal resource of seed cells for corneal regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyi Li
- 1 Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- 2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Wenjing Li
- 2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Xiaoli Hu
- 2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Yanni Jia
- 1 Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Can Zhao
- 1 Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Songmei Zhang
- 2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- 2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- 1 Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,2 State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao,China
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35
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Strategies for reconstructing the limbal stem cell niche. Ocul Surf 2019; 17:230-240. [PMID: 30633966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The epithelial cell layer that covers the surface of the cornea provides a protective barrier while maintaining corneal transparency. The rapid and effective turnover of these epithelial cells depends, in part, on the limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) located in a specialized microenvironment known as the limbal niche. Many disorders affecting the regeneration of the corneal epithelium are related to deficiency and/or dysfunction of LESCs and the limbal niche. Current approaches for regenerating the corneal epithelium following significant injuries such as burns and inflammatory attacks are primarily aimed at repopulating the LESCs. This review summarizes and assesses the clinical feasibility and efficacy of current and emerging approaches for reconstruction of the limbal niche. In particular, the application of mesenchymal stem cells along with appropriate biological scaffolds appear to be promising strategies for long-term revitalization of the limbal niche.
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Zhu J, Slevin M, Guo BQ, Zhu SR. Induced pluripotent stem cells as a potential therapeutic source for corneal epithelial stem cells. Int J Ophthalmol 2018; 11:2004-2010. [PMID: 30588437 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2018.12.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal blindness caused by limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is one of the most common debilitating eye disorders. Thus far, the most effective treatment for LSCD is corneal transplantation, which is often hindered by the shortage of donors. Pluripotent stem cell technology including embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have opened new avenues for treating this disease. iPSCs-derived corneal epithelial cells provide an autologous and unlimited source of cells for the treatment of LSCD. On the other hand, iPSCs of LSCD patients can be used for iPSCs-corneal disease model and new drug discovery. However, prior to clinical trial, the efficacy and safety of these cells in patients with LSCD should be proved. Here we focused on the current status of iPSCs-derived corneal epithelial cells used for cell therapy as well as for corneal disease modeling. The challenges and potential of iPSCs-derived corneal epithelial cells as a choice for clinical treatment in corneal disease were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhu
- Queen Mary School, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Mark Slevin
- School of Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M15GD, United Kingdom.,Research Institute of Brain Vascular Disease, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bao-Qiang Guo
- School of Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M15GD, United Kingdom.,Research Institute of Brain Vascular Disease, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shou-Rong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261000, Shandong Province, China
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Update on the Surgical Reconstruction of Ocular Surface in Eyes with Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-018-0187-y] [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]
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38
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Hayashi R, Ishikawa Y, Katayama T, Quantock AJ, Nishida K. CD200 facilitates the isolation of corneal epithelial cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16550. [PMID: 30410112 PMCID: PMC6224558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34845-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vitro induction of corneal epithelial cells (CECs) from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) represents a new strategy for obtaining CE stem/progenitor cells for the surgical reconstruction of a diseased or injured ocular surface. The clinical promise of this strategy is considerable, but if the approaches’ potential is to be realised, robust methods for the purification of iPSC-derived CE lineage cells need to be developed to avoid contamination with other cells that may carry the risk of unwanted side effects, such as tumorigenesis. Experiments conducted here revealed that during CEC isolation, CD200-negative selection using a cell sorter considerably reduced the contamination of the cell population with various non-CECs compared with what could be achieved using TRA-1-60, a conventional negative marker for CECs. Furthermore, CD200-negative sorting did not affect the yield of CECs nor that of their stem/progenitor cells. Single-cell gene expression analysis for CEC sheets obtained using CD200-negative sorting showed that all analysed cells were CE-lineage cells, expressing PAX6, delta-N p63, and E-cadherin. Non-CECs, on the other hand, expressed non-CEC genes such as FGFR1 and RPE65. CD200, thus, represents a robust negative marker for purification of induced CE lineage cells, which is expressed by undifferentiated iPSCs and non-CECs, including iPSC-derived neural and retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuhei Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cells and Applied Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Yuki Ishikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Katayama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Andrew J Quantock
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, Wales, UK
| | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) provide a personalized approach to study conditions and diseases including those of the eye that lack appropriate animal models to facilitate the development of novel therapeutics. Corneal disease is one of the most common causes of blindness. Hence, significant efforts are made to develop novel therapeutic approaches including stem cell-derived strategies to replace the diseased or damaged corneal tissues, thus restoring the vision. The use of adult limbal stem cells in the management of corneal conditions has been clinically successful. However, its limited availability and phenotypic plasticity necessitate the need for alternative stem cell sources to manage corneal conditions. Mesenchymal and embryonic stem cell-based approaches are being explored; nevertheless, their limited differentiation potential and ethical concerns have posed a significant hurdle in its clinical use. hiPSCs have emerged to fill these technical and ethical gaps to render clinical utility. In this review, we discuss and summarize protocols that have been devised so far to direct differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to different corneal cell phenotypes. With the summarization, our review intends to facilitate an understanding which would allow developing efficient and robust protocols to obtain specific corneal cell phenotype from hPSCs for corneal disease modeling and for the clinics to treat corneal diseases and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rohit Shetty
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
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Hongisto H, Vattulainen M, Ilmarinen T, Mikhailova A, Skottman H. Efficient and Scalable Directed Differentiation of Clinically Compatible Corneal Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 30417867 DOI: 10.3791/58279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) are responsible for continuously renewing the corneal epithelium, and thus maintaining corneal homeostasis and visual clarity. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived LESCs provide a promising cell source for corneal cell replacement therapy. Undefined, xenogeneic culture and differentiation conditions cause variation in research results and impede the clinical translation of hPSC-derived therapeutics. This protocol provides a reproducible and efficient method for hPSC-LESC differentiation under xeno- and feeder cell-free conditions. Firstly, monolayer culture of undifferentiated hPSC on recombinant laminin-521 (LN-521) and defined hPSC medium serves as a foundation for robust production of high-quality starting material for differentiations. Secondly, a rapid and simple hPSC-LESC differentiation method yields LESC populations in only 24 days. This method includes a four-day surface ectodermal induction in suspension with small molecules, followed by adherent culture phase on LN-521/collagen IV combination matrix in defined corneal epithelial differentiation medium. Cryostoring and extended differentiation further purifies the cell population and enables banking of the cells in large quantities for cell therapy products. The resulting high-quality hPSC-LESCs provide a potential novel treatment strategy for corneal surface reconstruction to treat limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Hongisto
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere;
| | - Meri Vattulainen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere
| | - Alexandra Mikhailova
- Department of Ophthalmology, SILK, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere
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Limbal Stem Cell Transplantation: Clinical Results, Limits, and Perspectives. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:8086269. [PMID: 30405723 PMCID: PMC6201383 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8086269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a clinical condition characterized by damage of cornea limbal stem cells, which results in an impairment of corneal epithelium turnover and in an invasion of the cornea by the conjunctival epithelium. In these patients, the conjunctivalization of the cornea is associated with visual impairment and cornea transplantation has poor prognosis for recurrence of the conjunctivalization. Current treatments of LSCD are aimed at replacing the damaged corneal stem cells in order to restore a healthy corneal epithelium. The autotransplantation of limbal tissue from the healthy, fellow eye is effective in unilateral LSCD but leads to depauperation of the stem cell reservoir. In the last decades, novel techniques such as cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) have been proposed in order to reduce the damage of the healthy fellow eye. Clinical and experimental evidence showed that CLET is effective in inducing long-term regeneration of a healthy corneal epithelium in patients with LSCD with a success rate of 70%–80%. Current limitations for the treatment of LSCD are represented by the lack of a marker able to unequivocally identify limbal stem cells and the treatment of total, bilateral LSCD which requires other sources of stem cells for ocular surface reconstruction.
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42
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Yang J, Park JW, Zheng D, Xu RH. Universal Corneal Epithelial-Like Cells Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells for Cellularization of a Corneal Scaffold. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2018; 7:23. [PMID: 30323996 PMCID: PMC6181193 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.7.5.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We generated universal corneal epithelial cells (CEC) from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) by genetically removing human leukocyte antigens (HLA) class I from the cell surface. Methods The serum-free, growth factor-free, and defined medium E6 was used to differentiate hESC to CEC. Decellularized murine corneas were recellularized with hESC-derived CEC. Using CRISPR/Cas9, β-2-microglobulin (B2M) was deleted in hESC to block the assembly of HLA class-I antigens on the cell surface to generate B2M−/− CEC. Results E6 alone was sufficient to allow hESC differentiation to CEC. A time-course analysis of the global gene expression of the differentiating cells indicates that the differentiation closely resembles the corneal development in vivo. The hESC-CEC were highly proliferative, and could form multilayer epithelium in decellularized murine cornea, retain its transparency, and form intact tight junctions on its surface. As reported before, B2M knockout led to the absence of HLA class-I on the cell surface of hESC and subsequently derived CEC following stimulation with inflammatory factors. Moreover, B2M−/− CEC, following transplantation into mouse eyes, caused less T-cell infiltration in the limbal region of the eye than the wild-type control. Conclusions CEC can be derived from hESC via a novel and simple protocol free of any proteins, hESC-CEC seeded on decellularized animal cornea form tight junctions and allow light transmittance, and B2M−/− CEC are hypoimmunogenic both in vitro and in vivo. Translational Relevance B2M−/− hESC-CEC can be an unlimited and universal therapy for corneal repair in patients of any HLA type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Jung Woo Park
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Dejin Zheng
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Ren-He Xu
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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43
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Bremond-Gignac D, Copin H, Benkhalifa M. Corneal epithelial stem cells for corneal injury. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2018; 18:997-1003. [PMID: 30092649 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1508443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ocular surface diseases with limbal insufficiency represent a therapeutic challenge for restoring vision. This corneal deficiency includes both classical ocular diseases (as chemical burns) and rare ocular diseases (as congenital aniridia and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid). AREAS COVERED Our understanding of limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) has increased the potential for treatment options. Pharmacological treatment strategies (as regenerating agent ophthalmic solutions) and especially surgical treatment strategies are available. Isolated LESCs can be produced by limbal primary cultures obtained from explants or cell suspensions. We review the latest cornea surgery techniques. EXPERT OPINION The adjunction of human limbal mesenchymal cells as a support for limbal stem cell primary cultures appears to be of great interest. Recently, human-induced pluripotent stem cells have allowed the generation of minicorneal organoids. This potential means of creating a three-dimensional cornea with in vitro maturation opens up important research areas for corneal regeneration therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Bremond-Gignac
- a Ophthalmology Department , University Hospital Necker-Enfants Malades , Paris , France.,b CNRS FR3636 , Paris V René Descartes University , Paris , France
| | - Henri Copin
- c Reproductive Medicine, Developmental Biology & Reproduction , University Hospital & School of Medicine, Picardie University Jules Verne , Amiens , France
| | - Moncef Benkhalifa
- c Reproductive Medicine, Developmental Biology & Reproduction , University Hospital & School of Medicine, Picardie University Jules Verne , Amiens , France
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44
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O'Day E, Hosta-Rigau L, Oyarzún DA, Okano H, de Lorenzo V, von Kameke C, Alsafar H, Cao C, Chen GQ, Ji W, Roberts RJ, Ronaghi M, Yeung K, Zhang F, Lee SY. Are We There Yet? How and When Specific Biotechnologies Will Improve Human Health. Biotechnol J 2018; 14:e1800195. [PMID: 29799175 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201800195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Patient X: A 67-year-old Caucasian man slips on a patch of ice. He has abrasions to his hands and has sustained significant damage to his hip. At the emergency room, he informs clinicians he takes atorvastatin, metformin, and glimepiride to treat hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). X-rays reveal a fractured hip, which will require total hip replacement surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth O'Day
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Olaris Therapeutics, Inc., 45 Moulton St., Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Leticia Hosta-Rigau
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Center for Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Diego A Oyarzún
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.,EPSRC Centre for Mathematics of Precision Healthcare, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Víctor de Lorenzo
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,National Center of Biotechnology CSIC, Systems Biology Program, Campus de Cantoblanco, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Conrad von Kameke
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,BioInnovators Europe, Berlin, Germany
| | - Habiba Alsafar
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Khalifa University Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, PO Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Cong Cao
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,University of Nottingham, 199 East Taikang Road, Ningbo, 315100, China
| | - Guo-Qiang Chen
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, MOE Lab for Industrial Biocatalysis, Tsinghua-Peking University Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Weizhi Ji
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Kunming University of Science and Technology, 727 Jingming South Rd. Chenh Gong, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Richard J Roberts
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,New England Biolabs, 240 County Road, Ipswich, MA, 01938, USA
| | - Mostafa Ronaghi
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Illumina Inc., 5200 Illumina Way, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Karen Yeung
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Law School and School of Computer Science University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK, B15 2TT
| | - Feng Zhang
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences and Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sang Yup Lee
- Global Future Council on the Future of Biotechnologies, World Economic Forum, Cologny, CH-1223, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Plus program), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-Ro, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.,The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet Bygning 220, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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45
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Martínez García de la Torre RA, Nieto-Nicolau N, Morales-Pastor A, Casaroli-Marano RP. Determination of the Culture Time Point to Induce Corneal Epithelial Differentiation in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Transplant Proc 2018; 49:2292-2295. [PMID: 29198663 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2017.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limbal stem cells (LSC) are progenitor cells in the ocular surface that renew the corneal epithelium. Limbal stem cell deficiency usually induces blindness through the loss of corneal transparency, and bilateral cases do not an accurate treatment because of the lack of an autologous source of stem cells. METHODS Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) are promising for use in cell therapy because of their autologous origin and the capability to differentiate into corneal epithelial cells. However, there are not standardized protocols to achieve a complete corneal epithelial differentiation. We examined the expression of several markers in a human episomal iPSC line after an induction period from embryoid bodies. RESULTS Progenitor LSC and corneal epithelial differentiation markers, some extracellular matrix protein adhesion molecules, and wingless signaling pathway were studied. Overall, LSC progenitor and corneal epithelium differentiation markers increased after maintaining cell culture in specific conditions for 14 days, whereas pluripotency markers decreased. CONCLUSIONS Our approach indicated that the optimal time point to initiate iPSC differentiation into LSC and corneal phenotypes, with the use of specific medium, is from 14 days after initial embryoid bodies treatment induction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - N Nieto-Nicolau
- Department of Cell Biology (CellTec-UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Morales-Pastor
- Department of Cell Biology (CellTec-UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R P Casaroli-Marano
- Department of Cell Biology (CellTec-UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Hospital Clínic de Barcelona (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
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46
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Sasamoto Y, Ksander BR, Frank MH, Frank NY. Repairing the corneal epithelium using limbal stem cells or alternative cell-based therapies. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2018; 18:505-513. [PMID: 29471701 PMCID: PMC6317528 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1443442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The corneal epithelium is maintained by limbal stem cells (LSCs) that reside in the basal epithelial layer of the tissue surrounding the cornea termed the limbus. Loss of LSCs results in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) that can cause severe visual impairment. Patients with partial LSCD may respond to conservative therapies designed to rehabilitate the remaining LSCs. However, if these conservative approaches fail or, if complete loss of LSCs occurs, transplantation of LSCs or their alternatives is the only option. While a number of clinical studies utilizing diverse surgical and cell culture techniques have shown favorable results, a universal cure for LSCD is still not available. Knowledge of the potential risks and benefits of current approaches, and development of new technologies, is essential for further improvement of LSCD therapies. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on cell-based LSCD treatment approaches ranging from current available clinical therapies to preclinical studies of novel promising applications. EXPERT OPINION Improved understanding of LSC identity and development of LSC expansion methods will influence the evolution of successful LSCD therapies. Ultimately, future controlled clinical studies enabling direct comparison of the diverse employed approaches will help to identify the most effective treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzuru Sasamoto
- Division of Genetics, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bruce R. Ksander
- Mass Eye & Ear, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Markus H. Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Western School of Medical Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Natasha Y. Frank
- Division of Genetics, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
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47
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Cieślar-Pobuda A, Rafat M, Knoflach V, Skonieczna M, Hudecki A, Małecki A, Urasińska E, Ghavami S, Łos MJ. Human induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation and direct transdifferentiation into corneal epithelial-like cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:42314-42329. [PMID: 27275539 PMCID: PMC5173137 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.9791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is maintained by a small pool of tissue stem cells located at the limbus. Through certain injuries or diseases this pool of stem cells may get depleted. This leads to visual impairment. Standard treatment options include autologous or allogeneic limbal stem cell (LSC) transplantation, however graft rejection and chronic inflammation lowers the success rate over long time. Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have opened new possibilities for treating various diseases with patient specific cells, eliminating the risk of immune rejection. In recent years, several protocols have been developed, aimed at the differentiation of iPS cells into the corneal epithelial lineage by mimicking the environmental niche of limbal stem cells. However, the risk of teratoma formation associated with the use of iPS cells hinders most applications from lab into clinics. Here we show that the differentiation of iPS cells into corneal epithelial cells results in the expression of corneal epithelial markers showing a successful differentiation, but the process is long and the level of gene expression for the pluripotency markers does not vanish completely. Therefore we set out to determine a direct transdifferentiation approach to circumvent the intermediate state of pluripotency (iPS-stage). The resulting cells, obtained by direct transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into limbal cells, exhibited corneal epithelial cell morphology and expressed corneal epithelial markers. Hence we shows for the first time a direct transdifferentiation of human dermal fibroblasts into the corneal epithelial lineage that may serve as source for corneal epithelial cells for transplantation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Cieślar-Pobuda
- Stem Cell Group, Nordic EMBL Partnership, Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Automatic Control, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Mehrdad Rafat
- LinkoCare Life Sciences AB, Mjärdevi Science Park, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Viktoria Knoflach
- Unit of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry & Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magdalena Skonieczna
- Institute of Automatic Control, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland.,Center for Biotechnology, Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland
| | | | - Andrzej Małecki
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Physiotherapy, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Urasińska
- Department of Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Seaid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, College of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Marek J Łos
- LinkoCare Life Sciences AB, Mjärdevi Science Park, Linköping, Sweden.,Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Physiotherapy, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
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48
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Inside out: regenerative medicine for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Pediatr Res 2018; 83:318-324. [PMID: 29593249 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2017.244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa is classified as a genodermatosis, an inherited genetic skin disorder that results in severe, chronic skin blistering with painful and life-threatening complications. Although there is currently no cure for epidermolysis bullosa, concurrent advances in gene and stem cell therapies are converging toward combinatorial therapies that hold the promise of clinically meaningful and lifelong improvement. Recent studies using hematopoietic stem cells and mesenchymal stromal/stem cells to treat epidermolysis bullosa have demonstrated the potential for sustained, effective management of the most severe cases. Furthermore, advances in the use of gene therapy and gene-editing techniques, coupled with the development of induced pluripotent stem cells from patients with epidermolysis bullosa, allow for autologous therapies derived from a renewable population of cells that are patient-specific. Here we describe emerging treatments for epidermolysis bullosa and other genodermatoses, along with a discussion of their benefits and limitations as effective therapies.
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49
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Hongisto H, Ilmarinen T, Vattulainen M, Mikhailova A, Skottman H. Xeno- and feeder-free differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells to two distinct ocular epithelial cell types using simple modifications of one method. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:291. [PMID: 29284513 PMCID: PMC5747074 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) provide a promising cell source for ocular cell replacement therapy, but often lack standardized and xenogeneic-free culture and differentiation protocols. We aimed to develop a xeno- and feeder cell-free culture system for undifferentiated hPSCs along with efficient methods to derive ocular therapy target cells: retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and corneal limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs). METHODS Multiple genetically distinct hPSC lines were adapted to a defined, xeno-, and feeder-free culture system of Essential 8™ medium and laminin-521 matrix. Thereafter, two-stage differentiation methods toward ocular epithelial cells were established utilizing xeno-free media and a combination of extracellular matrix proteins. Both differentiation methods shared the same basal elements, using only minor inductive modifications during early differentiation towards desired cell lineages. The resulting RPE cells and LESCs were characterized after several independent differentiation experiments and recovery after xeno-free cryopreservation. RESULTS The defined, xeno-, and feeder-free culture system provided a robust means to generate high-quality hPSCs with chromosomal stability limited to early passages. Inductive cues introduced during the first week of differentiation had a substantial effect on lineage specification, cell survival, and even mature RPE properties. Derivative RPE formed functional epithelial monolayers with mature tight junctions and expression of RPE genes and proteins, as well as phagocytosis and key growth factor secretion capacity after 9 weeks of maturation on inserts. Efficient LESC differentiation led to cell populations expressing LESC markers such as p40/p63α by day 24. Finally, we established xeno-free cryobanking protocols for pluripotent hPSCs, hPSC-RPE cells, and hPSC-LESCs, and demonstrated successful recovery after thawing. CONCLUSIONS We propose methods for efficient and scalable, directed differentiation of high-quality RPE cells and LESCs. The two clinically relevant cell types are generated with simple inductive modification of the same basal method, followed by adherent culture, passaging, and cryobanking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Hongisto
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Meri Vattulainen
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
| | - Alexandra Mikhailova
- Department of Ophthalmology, SILK, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, 33520, Tampere, Finland
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50
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Kamarudin TA, Bojic S, Collin J, Yu M, Alharthi S, Buck H, Shortt A, Armstrong L, Figueiredo FC, Lako M. Differences in the Activity of Endogenous Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling Impact on the Ability of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Differentiate to Corneal Epithelial-Like Cells. Stem Cells 2017; 36:337-348. [PMID: 29226476 PMCID: PMC5839253 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cornea is a clear outermost layer of the eye which enables transmission of light onto the retina. The transparent corneal epithelium is regenerated by limbal stem cells (LSCs), whose loss/dysfunction results in LSCs deficiency (LSCD). Ex vivo expansion of autologous LSCs obtained from patient's healthy eye followed by transplantation onto the LSCs damaged/deficient eye, has provided a successful treatment for unilateral LSCD. However, this is not applicable to patient with total bilateral LSCD, where LSCs are lost/damaged from both eyes. We investigated the potential of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) to differentiate into corneal epithelial‐like cells as a source of autologous stem cell treatment for patients with total bilateral LSCD. Our study showed that combined addition of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), all trans‐retinoic acid and epidermal growth factor for the first 9 days of differentiation followed by cell‐replating on collagen‐IV‐coated surfaces with a corneal‐specific‐epithelial cell media for an additional 11 days, resulted in step wise differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESC) to corneal epithelial progenitors and mature corneal epithelial‐like cells. We observed differences in the ability of hiPSC lines to undergo differentiation to corneal epithelial‐like cells which were dependent on the level of endogenous BMP signaling and could be restored via the activation of this signaling pathway by a specific transforming growth factor β inhibitor (SB431542). Together our data reveal a differential ability of hiPSC lines to generate corneal epithelial cells which is underlined by the activity of endogenous BMP signaling pathway. Stem Cells2018;36:337–348
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Affiliation(s)
- Taty Anna Kamarudin
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Sanja Bojic
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Collin
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Min Yu
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Sameer Alharthi
- Princess Al Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Harley Buck
- UCL Institute of Immunology and Transplantation, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Shortt
- UCL Institute of Immunology and Transplantation, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lyle Armstrong
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Francisco C Figueiredo
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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