1
|
Suanno G, Genna VG, Maurizi E, Dieh AA, Griffith M, Ferrari G. Cell therapy in the cornea: The emerging role of microenvironment. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 102:101275. [PMID: 38797320 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101275] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The cornea is an ideal testing field for cell therapies. Its highly ordered structure, where specific cell populations are sequestered in different layers, together with its accessibility, has allowed the development of the first stem cell-based therapy approved by the European Medicine Agency. Today, different techniques have been proposed for autologous and allogeneic limbal and non-limbal cell transplantation. Cell replacement has also been attempted in cases of endothelial cell decompensation as it occurs in Fuchs dystrophy: injection of cultivated allogeneic endothelial cells is now in advanced phases of clinical development. Recently, stromal substitutes have been developed with excellent integration capability and transparency. Finally, cell-derived products, such as exosomes obtained from different sources, have been investigated for the treatment of severe corneal diseases with encouraging results. Optimization of the success rate of cell therapies obviously requires high-quality cultured cells/products, but the role of the surrounding microenvironment is equally important to allow engraftment of transplanted cells, to preserve their functions and, ultimately, lead to restoration of tissue integrity and transparency of the cornea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Suanno
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Eleonora Maurizi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine ''S. Ferrari'', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anas Abu Dieh
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - May Griffith
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Eye Repair Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Ophthalmology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ogata FT, Verma S, Coulson-Thomas VJ, Gesteira TF. TGF-β-Based Therapies for Treating Ocular Surface Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:1105. [PMID: 38994958 PMCID: PMC11240592 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cornea is continuously exposed to injuries, ranging from minor scratches to deep traumas. An effective healing mechanism is crucial for the cornea to restore its structure and function following major and minor insults. Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β), a versatile signaling molecule that coordinates various cell responses, has a central role in corneal wound healing. Upon corneal injury, TGF-β is rapidly released into the extracellular environment, triggering cell migration and proliferation, the differentiation of keratocytes into myofibroblasts, and the initiation of the repair process. TGF-β-mediated processes are essential for wound closure; however, excessive levels of TGF-β can lead to fibrosis and scarring, causing impaired vision. Three primary isoforms of TGF-β exist-TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3. Although TGF-β isoforms share many structural and functional similarities, they present distinct roles in corneal regeneration, which adds an additional layer of complexity to understand the role of TGF-β in corneal wound healing. Further, aberrant TGF-β activity has been linked to various corneal pathologies, such as scarring and Peter's Anomaly. Thus, understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which TGF-β1-3 regulate corneal wound healing will enable the development of potential therapeutic interventions targeting the key molecule in this process. Herein, we summarize the multifaceted roles of TGF-β in corneal wound healing, dissecting its mechanisms of action and interactions with other molecules, and outline its role in corneal pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando T Ogata
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Sudhir Verma
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110078, India
| | | | - Tarsis F Gesteira
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hsueh YJ, Chen HC, Pan YY, Hsiao FC, Yang SJ, Liu MC, Lai WY, Li G, Hui-Kang Ma D, James Meir YJ. The hiPSC-derived corneal endothelial progenitor-like cell recovers the rabbit model of corneal endothelial dystrophy. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00184-X. [PMID: 38729560 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.05.008] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Corneal endothelial dysfunction results in cornea opacity, damaging sightedness, and affecting quality of life. A corneal transplant is the current effective intervention. Due to the scarcity of donated cornea, such an unmet medical need requires a novel therapeutic modality. OBJECTIVES Customizing patients' corneal endothelial progenitor cells with proliferative activity and lineage restriction properties shall offer sufficient therapeutic cells for corneal endothelial dystrophy. METHODS The customized induced human corneal endothelial progenitor-like cell (iHCEPLC) was obtained through cell fate conversions starting from PBMC (peripheral blood mononuclear cell), hiPSC (human induced pluripotent stem cell), and hNCC (human neural crest cell), while it finally reached the iHCEPLC state via a series of induction. Several molecular diagnoses were applied to depict its progenitor state, including RNAseq, FlowCytometer, immunostainings, and rtPCR. Significantly, it can be induced to gain differentiation maturity through contact inhibition. In addition, a BAK-mediated rabbit model of corneal endothelial dystrophy was established in the present study to test the therapeutic effectiveness of the iHCEPLC. RESULTS After inducing cell fate conversion, the specific HCEC markers were detected by rtPCR and immunostaining in iHCEPLC. Further, RNAseq was applied to distinguish its progenitor-like cell fate from primary human corneal endothelial cells (HECE). FlowCytometry profiled the heterogeneity subpopulation, consistently displaying a subtle difference from primary HCEC. A terminal differentiation can be induced in iHCEPLC, addressing its progenitor-like fate. iHCEPLC can restore the BAK-based rabbit model of corneal endothelial dystrophy. Immunohistochemistry verified that such acuity restoration of the BAK-treated cornea is due to the introduced iHCEPLC, and such therapeutic effectiveness is observed in the long term. CONCLUSION Here, we demonstrated that customized iHCEPLC has long-term therapeutic efficacy. As a progenitor cell, our iHCEPLC has a restricted cell lineage nature and can proliferate in vitro, supporting sufficient therapeutic candidate cells. Due to the immune-privileged nature of the cornea, our iHCEPLC proves the principle of therapeutical feasibility in both autogenic and allogeneic modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jen Hsueh
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chi Chen
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yun Pan
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Chi Hsiao
- Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Jie Yang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chun Liu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yu Lai
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Guigang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430030, China
| | - David Hui-Kang Ma
- Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Department of Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Yaa-Jyuhn James Meir
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan; Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zou D, Wang T, Li W, Wang X, Ma B, Hu X, Zhou Q, Li Z, Shi W, Duan H. Nicotinamide promotes the differentiation of functional corneal endothelial cells from human embryonic stem cells. Exp Eye Res 2024; 242:109883. [PMID: 38561106 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation represents the primary therapeutic approach for managing corneal endothelial dysfunction, but corneal donors remain scarce. Anterior chamber cell injection emerges as a highly promising alternative strategy for corneal transplantation, with pluripotent stem cells (PSC) demonstrating considerable potential as an optimal cell source. Nevertheless, only a few studies have explored the differentiation of functional corneal endothelial-like cells originating from PSC. In this investigation, a chemical-defined protocol was successfully developed for the differentiation of functional corneal endothelial-like cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC). The application of nicotinamide (NAM) exhibited a remarkable capability in suppressing the fibrotic phenotype, leading to the generation of more homogeneous and well-distinctive differentiated cells. Furthermore, NAM effectively suppressed the expression of genes implicated in endothelial cell migration and extracellular matrix synthesis. Notably, NAM also facilitated the upregulation of surface marker genes specific to functional corneal endothelial cells (CEC), including CD26 (-) CD44 (-∼+-) CD105 (-) CD133 (-) CD166 (+) CD200 (-). Moreover, in vitro functional assays were performed, revealing intact barrier properties and Na+/K+-ATP pump functionality in the differentiated cells treated with NAM. Consequently, our findings provide robust evidence supporting the capacity of NAM to enhance the differentiation of functional CEC originating from hESC, offering potential seed cells for therapeutic interventions of corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dulei Zou
- Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China; Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- Qingdao Sino-Cell Biomed Co., Ltd., Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Bochao Ma
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Xiangyue Hu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Zongyi Li
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Eye Hospital), Jinan, 250000, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, 266071, China; School of Ophthalmology, Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, 250000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu Z, Lin H, Li J, Feng Y. Deciphering the molecular symphony: Unraveling endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in corneal endothelial cells. Exp Eye Res 2024; 240:109795. [PMID: 38253308 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the molecular complexity of this phenomenon provides innovative targets for maintaining phenotypic integrity during in vitro expansion, thereby advancing corneal endothelial tissue engineering. In this study, we established an in vitro model to simulate endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in corneal endothelial cells. Through RNA sequencing, we identified 452 upregulated and 163 downregulated genes, resulting in a total of 615 differentially expressed genes. Key pathways enriched by GO and KEGG analysis include extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Potential hub proteins such as THBS1, ITGA5, COL1A1, and SNAI1/2 were also identified, and their dynamic changes at different time points (0, 2, 12, 24 h) were monitored. Uncovering these key pathways and genes may deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying EndMT in corneal endothelial cells, providing valuable insights for optimizing in vitro cultivation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxiang Lu
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haimiao Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jinming Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Feng
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Merra A, Maurizi E, Pellegrini G. Impact of culture media on primary human corneal endothelial cells derived from old donors. Exp Eye Res 2024; 240:109815. [PMID: 38316204 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109815] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial dysfunction is a major indication for corneal transplantation. However, a global shortage of donor corneal tissues and risks associated with corneal surgeries have prompted exploration of alternative options, including tissue-engineered grafts or cell injection therapy. Nonetheless, these approaches require a controlled culture of primary human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs). Although HCEnCs established from young donors are generally more proliferative and maintain a better phenotype, corneas from old donors are more frequently accessible from eye banks due to a lower corneal endothelial cell count than the necessary threshold required for transplantation. In this study, we investigated various culture media to evaluate which one is the most appropriate for stimulating the proliferation while maintaining cell morphology and function of HCEnCs derived from old donors (age >65 years). All experiments were performed on paired research-grade donor corneas, divided for the conditions under investigation in order to minimize the inter-donor variability. Cell morphology as well as expression of specific markers were assessed at both mRNA (CD166, SLC4A11, ATP1A1, COL8A1, α-SMA, CD44, COL1A1, CDKN2A, LAP2A and LAP2B) and protein (ZO-1, α-SMA, Ki67 and LAP2) levels. Results obtained showed how the Dual Media formulation maintained the hexagonal phenotype more efficiently than Single Medium, but cell size gradually increased with passages. In contrast, the Single Medium provided a higher proliferation rate and a prolonged in vitro expansion but acquired an elongated morphology. To summarize, Single medium and Dual media preserve morphology and functional phenotype of HCEnCs from old donor corneas at low passages while maintenance of the same cell features at high passages remains an active area of research. The new insights revealed within this work become particularly relevant considering that the elderly population a) is the main target of corneal endothelial therapy, b) represents the majority of corneal donors. Therefore, the proper expansion of HCEnCs from old donors is essential to develop novel personalised therapeutic strategies and reduce requirement of human corneal tissues globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Merra
- Holostem Terapie Avanzate S.r.l., Modena, Italy; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Maurizi
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Graziella Pellegrini
- Holostem Terapie Avanzate S.r.l., Modena, Italy; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yu J, Yu N, Tian Y, Fang Y, An B, Feng G, Wu J, Wang L, Hao J, Wang L, Zhou Q, Li W, Wang Y, Hu B. Safety and efficacy of human ESC-derived corneal endothelial cells for corneal endothelial dysfunction. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:201. [PMID: 37932828 PMCID: PMC10629087 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01145-w] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) has shown tremendous progress in cell-based regenerative medicine. Corneal endothelial dysfunction is associated with the loss and degeneration of corneal endothelial cells (CECs), rendering cell replacement a promising therapeutic strategy. However, comprehensive preclinical assessments of hPSC-derived CECs for this cell therapy remain a challenge. RESULTS Here we defined an adapted differentiation protocol to generate induced corneal endothelial cells (iCECs) consistently and efficiently from clinical-grade human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with xeno-free medium and manufactured cryopreserved iCECs. Cells express high levels of typical CECs markers and exhibit transendothelial potential properties in vitro typical of iCECs. After rigorous quality control measures, cells meeting all release criteria were available for in vivo studies. We found that there was no overgrowth or tumorigenicity of grafts in immunodeficient mice. After grafting into rabbit models, the surviving iCECs ameliorated edema and recovered corneal opacity. CONCLUSIONS Our work provides an efficient approach for generating iCECs and demonstrates the safety and efficacy of iCECs in disease modeling. Therefore, clinical-grade iCECs are a reliable source for future clinical treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yu
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100864, Beijing, China
| | - Nianye Yu
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100864, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100864, Beijing, China
| | - Yifan Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bin An
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Guihai Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Liqiang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100864, Beijing, China.
| | - Yukai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China.
| | - Baoyang Hu
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100864, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fujita T, Seist R, Kao SY, Soares V, Panano L, Khetani RS, Landegger LD, Batts S, Stankovic KM. miR-431 secreted by human vestibular schwannomas increases the mammalian inner ear's vulnerability to noise trauma. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1268359. [PMID: 37885485 PMCID: PMC10598552 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1268359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is an intracranial tumor that arises on the vestibular branch of cranial nerve VIII and typically presents with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The mechanisms of this SNHL are postulated to involve alterations in the inner ear's microenvironment mediated by the genetic cargo of VS-secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs). We aimed to identify the EV cargo associated with poor hearing and determine whether its delivery caused hearing loss and cochlear damage in a mouse model in vivo. Methods VS tissue was collected from routinely resected tumors of patients with good (VS-GH) or poor (VS-PH) pre-surgical hearing measured via pure-tone average and word recognition scores. Next-generation sequencing was performed on RNA isolated from cultured primary human VS cells and EVs from VS-conditioned media, stratified by patients' hearing ability. microRNA expression levels were compared between VS-PH and VS-GH samples to identify differentially expressed candidates for packaging into a synthetic adeno-associated viral vector (Anc80L65). Viral vectors containing candidate microRNA were infused to the semicircular canals of mice to evaluate the effects on hearing, including after noise exposure. Results Differentially expressed microRNAs included hsa-miR-431-5p (enriched in VS-PH) and hsa-miR-192-5p (enriched in VS-GH). Newborn mice receiving intracochlear injection of viral vectors over-expressing hsa-miR-431-GFP, hsa-miR-192-GFP, or GFP only (control) had similar hearing 6 weeks post-injection. However, after acoustic trauma, the miR-431 group displayed significantly worse hearing, and greater loss of synaptic ribbons per inner hair cell in the acoustically traumatized cochlear region than the control group. Conclusion Our results suggest that miR-431 contributes to VS-associated hearing loss following cochlear stress. Further investigation is needed to determine whether miR-431 is a potential therapeutic target for SNHL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Fujita
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Richard Seist
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shyan-Yuan Kao
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Vitor Soares
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lorena Panano
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Radhika S. Khetani
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lukas D. Landegger
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shelley Batts
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Konstantina M. Stankovic
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Wu Tsai Neuroscience Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Català P, Vivensang F, van Beek D, Adriaens ME, Dickman MM, LaPointe VLS, Kutmon M. Elucidating the Corneal Endothelial Cell Proliferation Capacity through an Interspecies Transcriptome Comparison. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2300065. [PMID: 37062753 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300065] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The regenerative capacity of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) differs between species; in bigger mammals, CECs are arrested in a non-proliferative state. Damage to these cells can compromise their function causing corneal opacity. Corneal transplantation is the current treatment for the recovery of clear eyesight, but the donor tissue demand is higher than the availability and there is a need to develop novel treatments. Interestingly, rabbit CECs retain a high proliferative profile and can repopulate the endothelium. There is a lack of fundamental knowledge to explain these differences. Gaining information on their transcriptomic variances could allow the identification of CEC proliferation drivers. In this study, human, sheep, and rabbit CECs are analyzed at the transcriptomic level. To understand the differences across each species, a pipeline for the analysis of pathways with different activities is generated. The results reveal that 52 pathways have different activity when comparing species with non-proliferative CECs (human and sheep) to species with proliferative CECs (rabbit). The results show that Notch and TGF-β pathways have increased activity in species with non-proliferative CECs, which might be associated with their low proliferation. Overall, this study illustrates transcriptomic pathway-level differences that can provide leads to develop novel therapies to regenerate the corneal endothelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pere Català
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, 6229ER, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229HX, The Netherlands
| | - Flora Vivensang
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, 6229ER, The Netherlands
| | - Daan van Beek
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology (MaCSBio), Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229EN, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel E Adriaens
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology (MaCSBio), Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229EN, The Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, 6229ER, The Netherlands
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, 6229HX, The Netherlands
| | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, 6229ER, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Kutmon
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology (MaCSBio), Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229EN, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sasseville S, Karami S, Tchatchouang A, Charpentier P, Anney P, Gobert D, Proulx S. Biomaterials used for tissue engineering of barrier-forming cell monolayers in the eye. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1269385. [PMID: 37840667 PMCID: PMC10569698 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1269385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell monolayers that form a barrier between two structures play an important role for the maintenance of tissue functionality. In the anterior portion of the eye, the corneal endothelium forms a barrier that controls fluid exchange between the aqueous humor of the anterior chamber and the corneal stroma. This monolayer is central in the pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). FECD is a common corneal disease, in which corneal endothelial cells deposit extracellular matrix that increases the thickness of its basal membrane (Descemet's membrane), and forms excrescences (guttae). With time, there is a decrease in endothelial cell density that generates vision loss. Transplantation of a monolayer of healthy corneal endothelial cells on a Descemet membrane substitute could become an interesting alternative for the treatment of this pathology. In the back of the eye, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) forms the blood-retinal barrier, controlling fluid exchange between the choriocapillaris and the photoreceptors of the outer retina. In the retinal disease dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD), deposits (drusen) form between the RPE and its basal membrane (Bruch's membrane). These deposits hinder fluid exchange, resulting in progressive RPE cell death, which in turn generates photoreceptor cell death, and vision loss. Transplantation of a RPE monolayer on a Bruch's membrane/choroidal stromal substitute to replace the RPE before photoreceptor cell death could become a treatment alternative for this eye disease. This review will present the different biomaterials that are proposed for the engineering of a monolayer of corneal endothelium for the treatment of FECD, and a RPE monolayer for the treatment of dry AMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Sasseville
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Samira Karami
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Ange Tchatchouang
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Pascale Charpentier
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Princia Anney
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Delphine Gobert
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre universitaire d’ophtalmologie (CUO), Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphanie Proulx
- Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d’ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang C, Nguyen DD, Lai J. Poly(l-Histidine)-Mediated On-Demand Therapeutic Delivery of Roughened Ceria Nanocages for Treatment of Chemical Eye Injury. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302174. [PMID: 37430140 PMCID: PMC10502830 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Development of topical bioactive formulations capable of overcoming the low bioavailability of conventional eye drops is critically important for efficient management of ocular chemical burns. Herein, a nanomedicine strategy is presented to harness the surface roughness-controlled ceria nanocages (SRCNs) and poly(l-histidine) surface coatings for triggering multiple bioactive roles of intrinsically therapeutic nanocarriers and promoting transport across corneal epithelial barriers as well as achieving on-demand release of dual drugs [acetylcholine chloride (ACh) and SB431542] at the lesion site. Specifically, the high surface roughness helps improve cellular uptake and therapeutic activity of SRCNs while exerting a negligible impact on good ocular biocompatibility of the nanomaterials. Moreover, the high poly(l-histidine) coating amount can endow the SRCNs with an ≈24-fold enhancement in corneal penetration and an effective smart release of ACh and SB431542 in response to endogenous pH changes caused by tissue injury/inflammation. In a rat model of alkali burn, topical single-dose nanoformulation can efficaciously reduce corneal wound areas (19-fold improvement as compared to a marketed eye drops), attenuate ≈93% abnormal blood vessels, and restore corneal transparency to almost normal at 4 days post-administration, suggesting great promise for designing multifunctional metallic nanotherapeutics for ocular pharmacology and tissue regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chia‐Jung Yang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
| | - Duc Dung Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
| | - Jui‐Yang Lai
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringChang Gung UniversityTaoyuan33302Taiwan
- Department of OphthalmologyChang Gung Memorial Hospital, LinkouTaoyuan33305Taiwan
- Department of Materials EngineeringMing Chi University of TechnologyNew Taipei City24301Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal MedicineCollege of Human EcologyChang Gung University of Science and TechnologyTaoyuan33303Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Aouimeur I, Sagnial T, Coulomb L, Maurin C, Thomas J, Forestier P, Ninotta S, Perrache C, Forest F, Gain P, Thuret G, He Z. Investigating the Role of TGF-β Signaling Pathways in Human Corneal Endothelial Cell Primary Culture. Cells 2023; 12:1624. [PMID: 37371094 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121624] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal endothelial diseases are the leading cause of corneal transplantation. The global shortage of donor corneas has resulted in the investigation of alternative methods, such as cell therapy and tissue-engineered endothelial keratoplasty (TEEK), using primary cultures of human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs). The main challenge is optimizing the hCEC culture process to increase the endothelial cell density (ECD) and overall yield while preventing endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is necessary for hCEC expansion but contains TGF-βs, which have been shown to be detrimental to hCECs. Therefore, we investigated various TGF-β signaling pathways using inhibitors to improve hCEC culture. Initially, we confirmed that TGF-β1, 2, and 3 induced EndMT on confluent hCECs without FBS. Using this TGF-β-induced EndMT model, we validated NCAM as a reliable biomarker to assess EndMT. We then demonstrated that, in a culture medium containing 8% FBS for hCEC expansion, TGF-β1 and 3, but not 2, significantly reduced the ECD and caused EndMT. TGF-β receptor inhibition had an anti-EndMT effect. Inhibition of the ROCK pathway, notably that of the P38 MAPK pathway, increased the ECD, while inhibition of the ERK pathway decreased the ECD. In conclusion, the presence of TGF-β1 and 3 in 8% FBS leads to a reduction in ECD and induces EndMT. The use of SB431542 or LY2109761 may prevent EndMT, while Y27632 or Ripasudil, and SB203580 or SB202190, can increase the ECD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inès Aouimeur
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Tomy Sagnial
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Louise Coulomb
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Corantin Maurin
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Justin Thomas
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Pierre Forestier
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Sandrine Ninotta
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
- Eye Bank, Etablissement Français du Sang (EFS) Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 42023 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Chantal Perrache
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Fabien Forest
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Philippe Gain
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital Center, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital Center, 42055 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Zhiguo He
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging for Ophthalmology (BiiO), EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint-Etienne, France
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kim HJ, Hwang JS, Noh KB, Oh SH, Park JB, Shin YJ. A p-Tyr42 RhoA Inhibitor Promotes the Regeneration of Human Corneal Endothelial Cells by Ameliorating Cellular Senescence. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1186. [PMID: 37371916 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061186] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of treatment strategies for human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) disease is necessary because hCECs do not regenerate in vivo due to the properties that are similar to senescence. This study is performed to investigate the role of a p-Tyr42 RhoA inhibitor (MH4, ELMED Inc., Chuncheon) in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)- or H2O2-induced cellular senescence of hCECs. Cultured hCECs were treated with MH4. The cell shape, proliferation rate, and cell cycle phases were analyzed. Moreover, cell adhesion assays and immunofluorescence staining for F-actin, Ki-67, and E-cadherin were performed. Additionally, the cells were treated with TGF-β or H2O2 to induce senescence, and mitochondrial oxidative reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and NF-κB translocation were evaluated. LC3II/LC3I levels were determined using Western blotting to analyze autophagy. MH4 promotes hCEC proliferation, shifts the cell cycle, attenuates actin distribution, and increases E-cadherin expression. TGF-β and H2O2 induce senescence by increasing mitochondrial ROS levels and NF-κB translocation into the nucleus; however, this effect is attenuated by MH4. Moreover, TGF-β and H2O2 decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential and induce autophagy, while MH4 reverses these effects. In conclusion, MH4, a p-Tyr42 RhoA inhibitor, promotes the regeneration of hCECs and protects hCECs against TGF-β- and H2O2-induced senescence via the ROS/NF-κB/mitochondrial pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jung Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Sun Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Bo Noh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Bong Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University Medical Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
- Hallym BioEyeTech Research Center, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07442, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hazra S, Dey S, Mandal BB, Ramachandran C. In Vitro Profiling of the Extracellular Matrix and Integrins Expressed by Human Corneal Endothelial Cells Cultured on Silk Fibroin-Based Matrices. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:2438-2451. [PMID: 37023465 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Developing a scaffold for culturing human corneal endothelial (HCE) cells is crucial as an alternative cell therapeutic approach to bridge the growing gap between the demand and availability of healthy donor corneas for transplantation. Silk films are promising substrates for the culture of these cells; however, their tensile strength is several-fold greater than the native basement membrane which can possibly influence the dynamics of cell-matrix interaction and the extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by the cells in long-term culture. In our current study, we assessed the secretion of ECM and the expression of integrins by the HCE cells on Philosamia ricini (PR) and Antheraea assamensis (AA) silk films and fibronectin-collagen (FNC)-coated plastic dishes to understand the cell-ECM interaction in long-term culture. The expression of ECM proteins (collagens 1, 4, 8, and 12, laminin, and fibronectin) on silk was comparable to that on the native tissue. The thicknesses of collagen 8 and laminin at 30 days on both PR (4.78 ± 0.55 and 5.53 ± 0.51 μm, respectively) and AA (4.66 ± 0.72 and 5.71 ± 0.61 μm, respectively) were comparable with those of the native tissue (4.4 ± 0.63 and 5.28 ± 0.72 μm, respectively). The integrin expression by the cells on the silk films was also comparable to that on the native tissue, except for α3 whose fluorescence intensity was significantly higher on PR (p ≤ 0.01) and AA (p ≤ 0.001), compared to that on the native tissue. This study shows that the higher tensile strength of the silk films does not alter the ECM secretion or cell phenotype in long-term culture, confirming the suitability of using this material for engineering the HCE cells for transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swatilekha Hazra
- Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
| | - Souradeep Dey
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
GSK-3 inhibition reverts mesenchymal transition in primary human corneal endothelial cells. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151302. [PMID: 36905755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human corneal endothelial cells are organized in a tight mosaic of hexagonal cells and serve a critical function in maintaining corneal hydration and clear vision. Regeneration of the corneal endothelial tissue is hampered by its poor proliferative capacity, which is partially retrieved in vitro, albeit only for a limited number of passages before the cells undergo mesenchymal transition (EnMT). Although different culture conditions have been proposed in order to delay this process and prolong the number of cell passages, EnMT has still not been fully understood and successfully counteracted. In this perspective, we identified herein a single GSK-3 inhibitor, CHIR99021, able to revert and avoid EnMT in primary human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs) from old donors until late passages in vitro (P8), as shown from cell morphology analysis (circularity). In accordance, CHIR99021 reduced expression of α-SMA, an EnMT marker, while restored endothelial markers such as ZO-1, Na+/K+ ATPase and N-cadherin, without increasing cell proliferation. A further analysis on RNA expression confirmed that CHIR99021 induced downregulation of EnMT markers (α-SMA and CD44), upregulation of the proliferation repressor p21 and revealed novel insights into the β-catenin and TGFβ pathways intersections in HCEnCs. The use of CHIR99021 sheds light on the mechanisms involved in EnMT, providing a substantial advantage in maintaining primary HCEnCs in culture until late passages, while preserving the correct morphology and phenotype. Altogether, these results bring crucial advancements towards the improvement of the corneal endothelial cells based therapy.
Collapse
|
17
|
Singh S, Chaurasia S. Recent and Evolving Therapies in the Management of Endothelial Diseases. Semin Ophthalmol 2023; 38:207-215. [PMID: 36582139 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2022.2152717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelium is the innermost layer of the cornea which has both barrier and pump function and very important to maintain cornea clarity. Unlike epithelium, endothelium does not have regenerative potential; hence, endothelial damage or dysfunction could lead to corneal edema and visual impairment. Advanced corneal transplantation which involves selective replacement of dysfunctional endothelium has led to improved and faster visual rehabilitation. But in recent times, alternative therapies in the management of corneal edema and endothelial diseases have been reported. In this review, we aim to give a comprehensive review of various strategies for the management of corneal endothelial dysfunction in order to give treatment which is precisely tailored for each individual patient. A review of all peer-reviewed publications on novel strategies for the management of endothelial dysfunction was performed. The various approaches to the management of endothelial dysfunction are compared and discussed. Shortage of human donor corneas globally is fuelling the search for keratoplasty alternatives. Corneal endothelial dysfunction can be caused following surgery, laser or corneal endothelial dystrophies which could be amenable to treatment with pharmacological, biological intervention and reverse the endothelial dysfunction in the early stages of endothelial failure. Pharmacological and surgical intervention are helpful in cases of good peripheral endothelial cell reserve, and advanced cases of endothelial cell dysfunction can be targeted with cell culture therapies, gene therapy and artificial implant. Treatment strategies which target endothelial dysfunction, especially FECD in its early stages, and gene therapy are rapidly evolving. Therapies which delay endothelial keratoplasty also are evolving like DSO and need more studies of long-term follow-up and patient selection criteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Singh
- Academy of Eye Care Education, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India.,The Cornea Institute, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sunita Chaurasia
- The Cornea Institute, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Shin H, Min JK, Kim NR, Seo KY, Chin HS, Lee S, Jung JW. Effects of Y-27632, a Rho-associated Kinase Inhibitor, on Human Corneal Endothelial Cells Cultured by Isolating Human Corneal Endothelial Progenitor Cells. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2023; 37:31-41. [PMID: 36549303 PMCID: PMC9935058 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2022.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONCLUSIONS Y-27632 enabled the isolation and expansion of HCEPs. It also enhanced the proliferation, viability, and migration of differentiated HCEPs. METHODS HCEPs were isolated and expanded in a medium with and without 10μM Y-27632, and then differentiated into HCECs in a medium with fetal bovine serum. The characteristics of HCEPs and differentiated HCEPs were confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. The proliferation, viability, morphology, and wound-healing ability of differentiated HCEPs were assessed in the presence of different concentrations of Y-27632. PURPOSE Human corneal endothelial progenitor cells (HCEPs), which has been selectively isolated and differentiated into human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs), are crucial for repairing corneal endothelial damage. In this study, we evaluated the roles of a Rho-assisted kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, Y-27632, on the isolation and expansion of HCEPs, and assessed the in vitro effects of different concentrations of Y-27632 on the differentiated HCEPs. RESULTS Y-27632 enabled the isolation and expansion of HCEPs from the corneal endothelium. The differentiated HCEPs showed an optimal increase in proliferation and survival in the presence of 10μM Y-27632. As the concentration of Y-27632 increased, differentiated HCEPs became elongated, and actin filaments were redistributed to the periphery of cells. Y-27632 also caused a concentration-dependent enhancement in the wound-healing ability of differentiated HCEPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haeeun Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inha Vision Science Laboratory, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| | - Joon Ki Min
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inha Vision Science Laboratory, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| | - Na Rae Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inha Vision Science Laboratory, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| | - Kyoung Yul Seo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Hee Seung Chin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inha Vision Science Laboratory, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| | - Soyoung Lee
- Translational Research Center, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| | - Ji Won Jung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inha Vision Science Laboratory, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon,
Korea
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jalilian I, Muppala S, Ali M, Anderson JD, Phinney B, Salemi M, Wilmarth PA, Murphy CJ, Thomasy SM, Raghunathan V. Cell derived matrices from bovine corneal endothelial cells as a model to study cellular dysfunction. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109303. [PMID: 36343671 PMCID: PMC11349083 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109303] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a progressive corneal disease that impacts the structure and stiffness of the Descemet's membrane (DM), the substratum for corneal endothelial cells (CECs). These structural alterations of the DM could contribute to the loss of the CECs resulting in corneal edema and blindness. Oxidative stress and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathways have been implicated in endothelial cell loss and endothelial to mesenchymal transition of CECs in FECD. Ascorbic acid (AA) is found at high concentrations in FECD and its impact on CEC survival has been investigated. However, how TGF-β and AA effect the composition and rigidity of the CEC's matrix remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we investigated the effect of AA, TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 on the deposition, ultrastructure, stiffness, and composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by primary bovine corneal endothelial cells (BCECs). RESULTS Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy post-decellularization demonstrated a robust deposition and distinct structure of ECM in response to treatments. AFM measurements showed that the modulus of the matrix in BCECs treated with TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 was significantly lower than the controls. There was no difference in the stiffness of the matrix between the AA-treated cell and controls. Gene Ontology analysis of the proteomics results revealed that AA modulates the oxidative stress pathway in the matrix while TGF-β induces the expression of matrix proteins collagen IV, laminin, and lysyl oxidase homolog 1. CONCLUSIONS Molecular pathways identified in this study demonstrate the differential role of soluble factors in the pathogenesis of FECD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iman Jalilian
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Santoshi Muppala
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Maryam Ali
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Johnathon D Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Brett Phinney
- Proteomics Core, University of California, Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Michelle Salemi
- Proteomics Core, University of California, Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Phillip A Wilmarth
- Proteomics Shared Resources, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - VijayKrishna Raghunathan
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77204, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77204, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sciriha GG, Sultana J, Borg J. Identifying and categorizing compounds that reduce corneal transforming growth factor beta induced protein levels: a scoping review. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:1423-1442. [PMID: 36308770 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2142560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transforming growth factor beta induced (TGFBI) gene mutations have been reported as the cause of a group of genetically inherited, visually debilitating, corneal dystrophies (CD). A scoping literature review to identify and categorize compounds that inhibit corneal TGFBI expression and/or promote TGFBIp degradation was performed. Emphasis was given to their potential to be used as a cost-effective approach via drug repurposing. AREAS COVERED We performed a thorough search of original peer-reviewed literature using electronic bibliographic databases and selected articles according to a set of criteria. The total number of articles retrieved from the search terms applied to the databases was 2344. The number of relevant full-text articles included added up to 19. We identified 16 compounds that can theoretically reduce the levels of mutant TGFBIp in human corneal cells. EXPERT OPINION Currently, the only temporary treatments available for this condition are lubricant drops and surgery. Here, we explored the crosstalk between cascades that regulate TGFBI expression and identified compounds that target these pathways. Compounds that inhibit DNA synthesis and function, increase elimination of TGFBIp or bind to mutant TGFBIp were also explored with the aim of highlighting promising compounds that can be used in future cost-effective drug-repurposing studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Janet Sultana
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter UK
| | - Joseph Borg
- Department of Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Santerre K, Cortez Ghio S, Proulx S. TGF-β-Mediated Modulation of Cell-Cell Interactions in Postconfluent Maturing Corneal Endothelial Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:3. [PMID: 36194422 PMCID: PMC9547359 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.11.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is known to influence many cell functions. In the corneal endothelium, TGF-β1 exerts contextual effects, promoting endothelial–mesenchymal transition in proliferating cells and enhancing barrier integrity in early confluent maturing cells. Herein, we studied how TGF-β isoforms participate in the formation of corneal endothelial intercellular junctions. Methods Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) were cultured using a two-phase media approach. When CECs reached confluence, the proliferation medium was replaced with maturation medium, which was supplemented or not with TGF-β isoforms. The cell morphology (circularity index), intercellular junction protein expression, trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER), and permeability of 7-day postconfluent CECs were assessed. Gene transcription and signaling pathways that were activated following maturation in the presence of TGF-β2 were also studied. The beneficial effect of TGF-β2 on CEC maturation was evaluated using ex vivo corneas mounted on a corneal bioreactor. Results The results showed increases in circularity index, membrane localization of junction-related proteins, and TEER when TGF-β isoforms were individually added during the maturation phase, and TGF-β2 was the most effective isoform. Gene profiling revealed an increase in extracellular matrix-related gene expression. In ex vivo cell adhesion experiments, CECs that were matured in the presence of TGF-β2 had a higher circularity index and cell density and exhibited cell membrane-localized junction-related protein expression at earlier time points. Conclusions These results suggest that TGF-β2 can strengthen cell–cell and cell–substrate adhesion, which accelerates barrier integrity establishment and thus enhances CEC functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Santerre
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, axe médecine régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Département d'Ophtalmologie et d'oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sergio Cortez Ghio
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, axe médecine régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Stéphanie Proulx
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec-Université Laval, axe médecine régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, Québec, Canada.,Département d'Ophtalmologie et d'oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Santerre K, Proulx S. Isolation efficiency of collagenase and EDTA for the culture of corneal endothelial cells. Mol Vis 2022; 28:331-339. [PMID: 36338664 PMCID: PMC9603909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Tissue engineering of the corneal endothelium, as well as cell therapy, has been proposed as an alternative approach for the treatment of corneal endotheliopathies. These approaches require in vitro amplification of functional corneal endothelial cells (CECs). The goal of this study was to compare two common isolation methods, collagenase A and EDTA (EDTA), and determine whether they influence cell viability, morphology, and barrier function. METHODS Human eye bank research-grade corneas were used to isolate and cultivate CECs. All donors were more than 40 years old. Two Descemet membranes from the same donor were used separately to compare the collagenase A and EDTA cell isolation methods. The number of isolated cells, cell viability, morphology, and barrier functionality were compared. RESULTS A higher isolation efficiency of viable CECs and a higher circularity index (endothelial morphology) were obtained using collagenase A. Passage 3 cells presented similar barrier functionalities regardless of the isolation method. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that isolation of CECs using collagenase A yields higher isolation efficiency than EDTA, delaying the loss of endothelial morphology for early passage cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Santerre
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec – Université Laval, axe médecine régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, QC, Canada,Département d’Ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphanie Proulx
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire (CHU) de Québec – Université Laval, axe médecine régénératrice, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Québec, QC, Canada,Département d’Ophtalmologie et d’oto-rhino-laryngologie-chirurgie cervico-faciale, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hazra S, Sneha IV, Chaurasia S, Ramachandran C. In Vitro Expansion of Corneal Endothelial Cells for Clinical Application: Current Update. Cornea 2022; 41:1313-1324. [PMID: 36107851 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Endothelial dysfunction is one of the leading causes of corneal blindness and one of the common indications for keratoplasty. At present, the standard of treatment involves the replacement of the dysfunctional endothelium with healthy tissue taken from a donor. Because there is a paucity of healthy donor tissues, research on the corneal endothelium has focused primarily on expanding these cells in the laboratory for transplantation in an attempt to reduce the gap between the demand and supply of donor tissues for transplantation. To expand these cells, which are nonmitotic in vivo, various mitogens, substrates, culture systems, and alternate strategies have been tested with varying success. The biggest challenge has been the limited proliferative capacity of these cells compounded with endothelial to mesenchymal transition that alters the functioning of these cells and renders them unsuitable for human transplantation. This review aims to give a comprehensive overview of the most common and successful techniques used in the culture of the cells, the current available evidence in support of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), alternate sources for deriving the corneal endothelial cells, and advances made in transplantation of these cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swatilekha Hazra
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India ; and
| | - Iskala V Sneha
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Vercammen H, Miron A, Oellerich S, Melles GRJ, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Koppen C, Van Den Bogerd B. Corneal endothelial wound healing: understanding the regenerative capacity of the innermost layer of the cornea. Transl Res 2022; 248:111-127. [PMID: 35609782 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are very few well-established treatments to stimulate corneal endothelial cell regeneration in vivo as a cure for corneal endothelial dysfunctions. The most frequently performed intervention for a damaged or dysfunctional corneal endothelium nowadays is corneal endothelial keratoplasty, also known as lamellar corneal transplantation surgery. Newer medical therapies are emerging and are targeting the regeneration of the corneal endothelium, helping the patients regain their vision without the need for donor tissue. Alternatives to donor tissues are needed as the aging population requiring transplants, has further exacerbated the pressure on the corneal eye banking system. Significant ongoing research efforts in the field of corneal regenerative medicine have been made to elucidate the underlying pathways and effector proteins involved in corneal endothelial regeneration. However, the literature offers little guidance and selective attention to the question of how to fully exploit these pathways. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of wound healing characteristics from a biochemical level in the lab to the regenerative features seen in the clinic. Studying the pathways involved in corneal wound healing together with their key effector proteins, can help explain the effect on the proliferation and migration capacity of the corneal endothelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Vercammen
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science (ARGOS), Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Alina Miron
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery (NIIOS), Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Silke Oellerich
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery (NIIOS), Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit R J Melles
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery (NIIOS), Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science (ARGOS), Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery (NIIOS), Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carina Koppen
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science (ARGOS), Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Bert Van Den Bogerd
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science (ARGOS), Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Shin J, Hur J, Lee JE, Kang YJ, Kim SJ, Kim S, Choi HY. The Efficacy of Atelocollagen to Inhibit Fibrotic Proliferation in Tenon Tissue: In vitro Study. Ophthalmic Res 2022; 66:86-98. [PMID: 35952635 DOI: 10.1159/000525762] [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: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of atelocollagen in preventing the fibrotic change of human tenon tissue induced by transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1). METHODS Primary cultured human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) were incubated with TGFβ1 alone and with various concentrations of atelocollagen, respectively. Cell viability was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). The mRNA levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), vimentin, fibronectin, zonular occludens scaffolding protein (ZO-1), cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analysis. Wound healing assay and collagen contraction assay were additionally evaluated for identifying the inhibitory effect of atelocollagen in HTFs. To elucidate the mechanism by which atelocollagen affects HTF proliferation, the phospho-extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (pERK)/total-extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (tERK), phospho-focal adhesion kinase (pFAK)/total-focal adhesion kinase (tFAK), and pSmad3/tSmad3 protein expression ratios were measured by Western blot. RESULTS The safety of atelocollagen in HTF was identified by CCK-8 analysis. The expression of α-SMA and vimentin in HTFs treated with 0.023% and 0.046% atelocollagen significantly decreased at both mRNA and protein levels, while that of ZO-1 in 0.046% atelocollagen increased compared with TGFβ1-treated cells. The protein expression of fibronectin, CCN2, and IL-6 in HTFs treated with 0.023% and 0.046% atelocollagen significantly decreased. The immunofluorescence microscopy of α-SMA and ZO-1 showed results similar to those of the Western blot. In the wound-scratch assays, cell migration was significantly attenuated in HTFs treated with 0.005% atelocollagen. Atelocollagen at 0.005, 0.011, and 0.023% significantly inhibited the gel contraction induced by TGFβ1 at both 24 h and 48 h. The increase in pERK/tERK and pSmad3/tSmad3 protein expression ratios in TGFβ1-treated HTFs significantly decreased after treatment with 0.023 and 0.046% atelocollagen. CONCLUSION Since atelocollagen gel effectively suppresses the proliferation of HTFs in TGFβ1-induced transdifferentiation, it may be a potential therapeutic agent in glaucoma surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonghoon Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hur
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- PNU GRAND Convergence Medical Science Education Research Center, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Jeong Kang
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangyoon Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Young Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hachana S, Larrivée B. TGF-β Superfamily Signaling in the Eye: Implications for Ocular Pathologies. Cells 2022; 11:2336. [PMID: 35954181 PMCID: PMC9367584 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β signaling pathway plays a crucial role in several key aspects of development and tissue homeostasis. TGF-β ligands and their mediators have been shown to be important regulators of ocular physiology and their dysregulation has been described in several eye pathologies. TGF-β signaling participates in regulating several key developmental processes in the eye, including angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Inadequate TGF-β signaling has been associated with defective angiogenesis, vascular barrier function, unfavorable inflammatory responses, and tissue fibrosis. In addition, experimental models of corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, glaucoma, or corneal injury suggest that aberrant TGF-β signaling may contribute to the pathological features of these conditions, showing the potential of modulating TGF-β signaling to treat eye diseases. This review highlights the key roles of TGF-β family members in ocular physiology and in eye diseases, and reviews approaches targeting the TGF-β signaling as potential treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Hachana
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang Y, Jin C, Tian H, Xu J, Chen J, Hu S, Li Q, Lu L, Ou Q, Xu GT, Cui H. CHIR99021 balance TGFβ1 induced human corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition to favor corneal endothelial cell proliferation. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:108939. [PMID: 35150734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) play a major role in the maintenance of stromal hydration via the barrier and pump function for clear vision. Adult CEC cannot regenerate after injury. CECs cultured in vitro can undergo mitosis but may undergo corneal endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EnMT) and lose their endothelial characteristics. In this study, we examined the effects of CHIR99201 on transforming growth factor beta-1(TGFβ1)-induced EnMT in human CEC (hCECs) lines. CHIR99021 kept hCECs in the hexagonal shape and could downregulate the EnMT markers alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin (FN1), meanwhile maintained the hCECs function markers Na+/K+-ATPase and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at levels comparable to those in the normal control. Interestingly, we found that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 at appropriate concentrations would significantly promote the proliferation and migration of hCECs. These effects may be related to the inhibition of RhoA or Rac1, as well as the activation of Wnt and Erk pathway, with a calcium homeostasis. Our findings indicate that CHIR99021 inhibit EnMT and that the combination of CHIR99021 and TGFβ1 may provide new ideas for corneal endothelial regeneration and wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Shuqin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongping Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li Z, Duan H, Jia Y, Zhao C, Li W, Wang X, Gong Y, Dong C, Ma B, Dou S, Zhang B, Li D, Cao Y, Xie L, Zhou Q, Shi W. Long-term corneal recovery by simultaneous delivery of hPSC-derived corneal endothelial precursors and nicotinamide. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:146658. [PMID: 34981789 PMCID: PMC8718141 DOI: 10.1172/jci146658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) hold great promise for the treatment of various human diseases. However, their therapeutic benefits and mechanisms for treating corneal endothelial dysfunction remain undefined. Here, we developed a therapeutic regimen consisting of the combination of hPSC-derived corneal endothelial precursors (CEPs) with nicotinamide (NAM) for effective treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction. In rabbit and nonhuman primate models, intracameral injection of CEPs and NAM achieved long-term recovery of corneal clarity and thickness, similar with the therapeutic outcome of cultured human corneal endothelial cells (CECs). The transplanted human CEPs exhibited structural and functional integration with host resident CECs. However, the long-term recovery relied on the stimulation of endogenous endothelial regeneration in rabbits, but predominantly on the replacing function of transplanted cells during the 3-year follow-up in nonhuman primates, which resemble human corneal endothelium with limited regenerative capacity. Mechanistically, NAM ensured in vivo proper maturation of transplanted CEPs into functional CECs by preventing premature senescence and endothelial-mesenchymal transition within the TGF-β–enriched aqueous humor. Together, we provide compelling experimental evidence and mechanistic insights of simultaneous delivery of CEPs and NAM as a potential approach for treating corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zongyi Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanni Jia
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Can Zhao
- Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yajie Gong
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chunxiao Dong
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Bochao Ma
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shengqian Dou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongfang Li
- Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yihai Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Spinozzi D, Miron A, Bruinsma M, Dapena I, Kocaba V, Jager MJ, Melles GRJ, Ni Dhubhghaill S, Oellerich S. New developments in corneal endothelial cell replacement. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:712-729. [PMID: 33369235 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is currently the most effective treatment to restore corneal clarity in patients with endothelial disorders. Endothelial transplantation, either by Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) or by Descemet stripping (automated) endothelial keratoplasty (DS(A)EK), is a surgical approach that replaces diseased Descemet membrane and endothelium with tissue from a healthy donor eye. Its application, however, is limited by the availability of healthy donor tissue. To increase the pool of endothelial grafts, research has focused on developing new treatment options as alternatives to conventional corneal transplantation. These treatment options can be considered as either 'surgery-based', that is tissue-efficient modifications of the current techniques (e.g. Descemet stripping only (DSO)/Descemetorhexis without endothelial keratoplasty (DWEK) and Quarter-DMEK), or 'cell-based' approaches, which rely on in vitro expansion of human corneal endothelial cells (hCEC) (i.e. cultured corneal endothelial cell sheet transplantation and cell injection). In this review, we will focus on the most recent developments in the field of the 'cell-based' approaches. Starting with the description of aspects involved in the isolation of hCEC from donor tissue, we then describe the different natural and bioengineered carriers currently used in endothelial cell sheet transplantation, and finally, we discuss the current 'state of the art' in novel therapeutic approaches such as endothelial cell injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Spinozzi
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Alina Miron
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Bruinsma
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Isabel Dapena
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group Singapore Eye Research Institute Singapore Singapore
| | - Martine J. Jager
- Department of Ophthalmology Leiden University Medical Center Leiden The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit R. J. Melles
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Sorcha Ni Dhubhghaill
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam The Netherlands
- Antwerp University Hospital (UZA) Edegem Belgium
| | - Silke Oellerich
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery Rotterdam The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Smeringaiova I, Paaske Utheim T, Jirsova K. Ex vivo expansion and characterization of human corneal endothelium for transplantation: a review. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:554. [PMID: 34717745 PMCID: PMC8556978 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02611-3] [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: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal endothelium plays a key role in maintaining corneal transparency. Its dysfunction is currently treated with penetrating or lamellar keratoplasty. Advanced cell therapy methods seek to address the persistent global deficiency of donor corneas by enabling the renewal of the endothelial monolayer with tissue-engineered grafts. This review provides an overview of recently published literature on the preparation of endothelial grafts for transplantation derived from cadaveric corneas that have developed over the last decade (2010–2021). Factors such as the most suitable donor parameters, culture substrates and media, endothelial graft storage conditions, and transplantation methods are discussed. Despite efforts to utilize alternative cellular sources, such as induced pluripotent cells, cadaveric corneas appear to be the best source of cells for graft preparation to date. However, native endothelial cells have a limited natural proliferative capacity, and they often undergo rapid phenotype changes in ex vivo culture. This is the main reason why no culture protocol for a clinical-grade endothelial graft prepared from cadaveric corneas has been standardized so far. Currently, the most established ex vivo culture protocol involves the peel-and-digest method of cell isolation and cell culture by the dual media method, including the repeated alternation of high and low mitogenic conditions. Culture media are enriched by additional substances, such as signaling pathway (Rho-associated protein kinase, TGF-β, etc.) inhibitors, to stimulate proliferation and inhibit unwanted morphological changes, particularly the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. To date, this promising approach has led to the development of endothelial grafts for the first in-human clinical trial in Japan. In addition to the lack of a standard culture protocol, endothelial-specific markers are still missing to confirm the endothelial phenotype in a graft ready for clinical use. Because the corneal endothelium appears to comprise phenotypically heterogeneous populations of cells, the genomic and proteomic expression of recently proposed endothelial-specific markers, such as Cadherin-2, CD166, or SLC4A11, must be confirmed by additional studies. The preparation of endothelial grafts is still challenging today, but advances in tissue engineering and surgery over the past decade hold promise for the successful treatment of endothelial dysfunctions in more patients worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrida Smeringaiova
- Laboratory of the Biology and Pathology of the Eye, Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Albertov 4, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Katerina Jirsova
- Laboratory of the Biology and Pathology of the Eye, Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Albertov 4, 128 00, Prague, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Català P, Thuret G, Skottman H, Mehta JS, Parekh M, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Collin RWJ, Nuijts RMMA, Ferrari S, LaPointe VLS, Dickman MM. Approaches for corneal endothelium regenerative medicine. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100987. [PMID: 34237411 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The state of the art therapy for treating corneal endothelial disease is transplantation. Advances in the reproducibility and accessibility of surgical techniques are increasing the number of corneal transplants, thereby causing a global deficit of donor corneas and leaving 12.7 million patients with addressable visual impairment. Approaches to regenerate the corneal endothelium offer a solution to the current tissue scarcity and a treatment to those in need. Methods for generating corneal endothelial cells into numbers that could address the current tissue shortage and the possible strategies used to deliver them have now become a therapeutic reality with clinical trials taking place in Japan, Singapore and Mexico. Nevertheless, there is still a long way before such therapies are approved by regulatory bodies and become clinical practice. Moreover, acellular corneal endothelial graft equivalents and certain drugs could provide a treatment option for specific disease conditions without the need of donor tissue or cells. Finally, with the emergence of gene modulation therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease, it would be possible to treat presymptomatic patients or those presenting early symptoms, drastically reducing the need for donor tissue. It is necessary to understand the most recent developments in this rapidly evolving field to know which conditions could be treated with which approach. This article provides an overview of the current and developing regenerative medicine therapies to treat corneal endothelial disease and provides the necessary guidance and understanding towards the treatment of corneal endothelial disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pere Català
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Laboratory of Biology, Engineering and Imaging of Corneal Graft, BiiGC, Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint Etienne, Saint Etienne, France; Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Heli Skottman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University Singapore Medical School, Singapore; Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK; The Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy; Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Rob W J Collin
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Rudy M M A Nuijts
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Pan SH, Zhao N, Feng X, Jie Y, Jin ZB. Conversion of mouse embryonic fibroblasts into neural crest cells and functional corneal endothelia by defined small molecules. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/23/eabg5749. [PMID: 34088673 PMCID: PMC8177713 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg5749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Reprogramming of somatic cells into desired functional cell types by small molecules has vast potential for developing cell replacement therapy. Here, we developed a stepwise strategy to generate chemically induced neural crest cells (ciNCCs) and chemically induced corneal endothelial cells (ciCECs) from mouse fibroblasts using defined small molecules. The ciNCCs exhibited typical NCC features and could differentiate into ciCECs using another chemical combination in vitro. The resulting ciCECs showed consistent gene expression profiles and self-renewal capacity to those of primary CECs. Notably, these ciCECs could be cultured for as long as 30 passages and still retain the CEC features in defined medium. Transplantation of these ciCECs into an animal model reversed corneal opacity. Our chemical approach for direct reprogramming of mouse fibroblasts into ciNCCs and ciCECs provides an alternative cell source for regeneration of corneal endothelia and other tissues derived from neural crest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Hui Pan
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ning Zhao
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University and Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiang Feng
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Ying Jie
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China.
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University and Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing 100730, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Parekh M, Ramos T, O’Sullivan F, Meleady P, Ferrari S, Ponzin D, Ahmad S. Human corneal endothelial cells from older donors can be cultured and passaged on cell-derived extracellular matrix. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:e512-e522. [PMID: 32914525 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of culturing human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs) from older donors on extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from human corneal endothelial cell line (HCEC-12). METHODS HCEC-12 cells were cultured on lab-tek chamber slides for 9 days. Upon confluence, the cells were ruptured using ammonium hydroxide leaving the released ECM on the slide surface which was visualized using scanning electron microscope (SEM). HCEnCs from old aged donor tissues (n = 40) were isolated and cultured on either fibronectin-collagen (FNC) or HCEC-12 ECM at passage (P) 0. At subsequent passages (P1 and P2), cells were sub-cultured on FNC and ECM separately. Live/dead analysis and tight junction using ZO-1 staining were used to record percentage viability and morphological changes. The protein composition of HCEC-12 ECM was then analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS SEM images showed long fibrillar-like structures and a fully laid ECM upon confluence. HCEnCs cultured from older donor tissues on this ECM showed significantly better proliferation and morphometric characteristics at subsequent passages. Out of 1307 proteins found from the HCEC-12 derived ECM, 93 proteins were evaluated to be matrix oriented out of which 20 proteins were exclusively found to be corneal endothelial specific. CONCLUSIONS ECM derived from HCEC-12 retains protein and growth factors that stimulate the growth of HCEnCs. As the current clinical trials are from younger donors that are not available routinely for cell culture, HCEnCs from older donors can be cultured on whole ECM and passaged successfully.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology University College London London UK
| | - Tiago Ramos
- Institute of Ophthalmology University College London London UK
| | | | | | | | - Diego Ponzin
- Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Institute of Ophthalmology University College London London UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fernández-Pérez J, Madden PW, Brady RT, Nowlan PF, Ahearne M. The effect of prior long-term recellularization with keratocytes of decellularized porcine corneas implanted in a rabbit anterior lamellar keratoplasty model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245406. [PMID: 34061862 PMCID: PMC8168847 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decellularized porcine corneal scaffolds are a potential alternative to human cornea for keratoplasty. Although clinical trials have reported promising results, there can be corneal haze or scar tissue. Here, we examined if recellularizing the scaffolds with human keratocytes would result in a better outcome. Scaffolds were prepared that retained little DNA (14.89 ± 5.56 ng/mg) and demonstrated a lack of cytotoxicity by in vitro. The scaffolds were recellularized using human corneal stromal cells and cultured for between 14 in serum-supplemented media followed by a further 14 days in either serum free or serum-supplemented media. All groups showed full-depth cell penetration after 14 days. When serum was present, staining for ALDH3A1 remained weak but after serum-free culture, staining was brighter and the keratocytes adopted a native dendritic morphology with an increase (p < 0.05) of keratocan, decorin, lumican and CD34 gene expression. A rabbit anterior lamellar keratoplasty model was used to compare implanting a 250 μm thick decellularized lenticule against one that had been recellularized with human stromal cells after serum-free culture. In both groups, host rabbit epithelium covered the implants, but transparency was not restored after 3 months. Post-mortem histology showed under the epithelium, a less-compact collagen layer, which appeared to be a regenerating zone with some α-SMA staining, indicating fibrotic cells. In the posterior scaffold, ALDH1A1 staining was present in all the acellular scaffold, but in only one of the recellularized lenticules. Since there was little difference between acellular and cell-seeded scaffolds in our in vivo study, future scaffold development should use acellular controls to determine if cells are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter W. Madden
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Robert Thomas Brady
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter F. Nowlan
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ahearne
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Petsoglou C, Wen L, Hoque M, Zhu M, Valtink M, Sutton G, You J. Effects of human platelet lysate on the growth of cultured human corneal endothelial cells. Exp Eye Res 2021; 208:108613. [PMID: 33984343 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Human platelet lysate (hPL) as a replacement for foetal bovine serum (FBS) in culturing human corneal endothelium is an emerging area of interest, although there are limited studies evaluating the quality of the hPL being used. Our study aimed to evaluate variations between sources of hPL and to explore the efficacy of hPL (with and without heparin) as a replacement for FBS in culturing human corneal endothelial cells in vitro. Immortalized human corneal endothelial cells (B4G12) and primary human corneal endothelial cells (PHCEnCs, n = 11 donors, age from 36 to 85 years old) were cultured with 5% hPL or FBS. A full characterisation of the effects of hPL and FBS on cell growth was conducted using IncuCyte Zoom (percentage cell confluence and population doubling time, PDT) to analyse cell proliferation. AlamarBlue assays were used to measure cell viability. The concentration of fibrinogen, PDGF, hEGF, VEGF and bFGF in two sources of hPL were analyzed by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression and localization of Na+/K+-ATPase, ZO-1 and CD166 on PHCEnCs and B4G12 cells were assessed with immunofluorescence and immunoblotting. Our results showed that a significant difference in fibrinogen, hEGF and VEGF concentrations was found between two sources of hPL. Heparin impaired the positive effect of hPL on cell growth. PDT and alamarBlue showed that hPL significantly increased proliferation and viability of PHCEnCs in two of three donors, and immunostaining indicated that hPL increased ZO-1 and CD166 expression but not Na+/K+-ATPase on PHCEnCs. In addition, heterogeneities on immunopositivity of Na+/K+-ATPase and ZO-1 and morphology were found on PHCEnCs derived from an individual donor cultured with hPL medium. In conclusion, hPL showed positive effect on primary corneal endothelial cell growth, and maintenance of their cellular characteristics compared to FBS. hPL can be considered as a supplement to replace FBS in PHCEnC culture. However, the variation observed between different hPL sources suggests that a standard quality control monitoring system such as storage time and a minimal concentration of growth factors may need to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constantinos Petsoglou
- Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia; New South Wales Tissue Bank, New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia; Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia; Corneal Unit, Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Li Wen
- New South Wales Tissue Bank, New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Monira Hoque
- New South Wales Tissue Bank, New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Meidong Zhu
- New South Wales Tissue Bank, New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia; Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
| | - Monika Valtink
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerard Sutton
- Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia; New South Wales Tissue Bank, New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia; Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia; Corneal Unit, Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Jingjing You
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Parekh M, Ruzza A, Gallon P, Ponzin D, Ahmad S, Ferrari S. Synthetic media for preservation of corneal tissues deemed for endothelial keratoplasty and endothelial cell culture. Acta Ophthalmol 2021; 99:314-325. [PMID: 32914554 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the difference between various endothelial graft preparation methods and endothelial cell culture from tissues that are preserved in serum-based and synthetic medium. METHODS In a randomized masked study, the tissues (n = 64) were preserved in Cornea Max (serum-based) and Cornea Syn (synthetic) series for 36 days at their respective preservation conditions. Following organ culture, corneal tissues (n = 48) were used to prepareDescemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), preloaded ultra-thin (UT) -DSAEK, prestripped Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), free-floating DMEK, and preloaded DMEK with endothelium inward and outward grafts. These tissues were preserved for another 4days at room temperature in dextran supplemented media following which they were subjected to trypan blue, alizarin red, live/dead and Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) staining. A separate set of tissues (n = 16) from both the series was used for human corneal endothelial cell (HCEnC) culture. At confluence, the proliferation and cell doubling rate was calculated and the cultured cells were subjected to live/dead, ZO-1, 2A12 and Ki-67 staining. Mann-Whitney test was performed with p < 0.05 deemed statistically significant. RESULTS After preparation and preservation of the tissues for endothelial keratoplasty, alizarin red showed standard endothelial morphology from both the groups. Endothelial cell loss, hexagonality and uncovered areas did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between both groups. For HCEnC, cell doubling rate was 4.7 days (p > 0.05). All the antibodies were expressed in both the groups. Hexagonality, polymorphism, cell area, viable/dead cells and Ki-67 positivity were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Complete synthetic organ culture series is safe and advantageous for carrying out advanced endothelial keratoplasty graft preparation procedures and for HCEnC culture as it is free from animal or animal-derived products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology University College London London UK
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| | - Alessandro Ruzza
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| | - Paola Gallon
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| | - Diego Ponzin
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Institute of Ophthalmology University College London London UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London UK
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus Venice Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
He Z, Okumura N, Sato M, Komori Y, Nakahara M, Gain P, Koizumi N, Thuret G. Corneal endothelial cell therapy: feasibility of cell culture from corneas stored in organ culture. Cell Tissue Bank 2021; 22:551-562. [PMID: 33860873 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-021-09918-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In 2013, a clinical trial was initiated to investigate cell therapy for the treatment of corneal endothelial decompensation. Cultivating human corneal endothelial cells (CECs) while maintaining their functional phenotype is challenging; therefore, establishment of a confirmed protocol is pivotal for obtaining approval from regulatory authorities for use of cellular therapy products. In this study, we evaluated organ culture (OC) as a storage method for donor corneas used as a raw material for establishing CEC cultures. OC allows storage of corneal tissue for conventional corneal transplantation at 31-37 °C for up to 5 weeks, whereas storage at 4 °C is limited to 2 weeks. We investigated 20 pairs of corneas: one cornea of each pair was stored in OC and the other in cold storage for one week before CEC culture. In 15/20 cases, the CECs assumed a hexagonal sheet-like monolayer structure and expressed endothelial function-related markers. CECs were also obtained from OC corneas that had been stored for 1 (n = 19) and 2 (n = 7) months. As a further test, CECs were cultivated from 5 OC corneas that had been transported from France to Japan. In all cases, these corneas, even after international transport, generated CECs that formed hexagonal monolayers with clinically applicable and sufficiently high cell densities. In conclusion, the CEC cultures required for endothelial cell therapy can be obtained from OC corneas without changing the standard storage operating procedures of the eye banks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguo He
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 10 rue de la Marandière, Saint-Priest en Jarez, 42270, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, 1-3 Miyakodani, Tatara, Kyotanabe-city, Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Masakazu Sato
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, 1-3 Miyakodani, Tatara, Kyotanabe-city, Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Yuya Komori
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, 1-3 Miyakodani, Tatara, Kyotanabe-city, Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Makiko Nakahara
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, 1-3 Miyakodani, Tatara, Kyotanabe-city, Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Philippe Gain
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 10 rue de la Marandière, Saint-Priest en Jarez, 42270, Saint-Etienne, France.,Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, 1-3 Miyakodani, Tatara, Kyotanabe-city, Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan
| | - Gilles Thuret
- Corneal Graft Biology, Engineering and Imaging Laboratory, BiiGC, EA2521, Faculty of Medicine, Jean Monnet University, 10 rue de la Marandière, Saint-Priest en Jarez, 42270, Saint-Etienne, France. .,Ophthalmology Department, University Hospital, Saint-Etienne, France.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang X, Zhou Q, Zhao C, Duan H, Li W, Dong C, Gong Y, Li Z, Shi W. Multiple roles of FGF10 in the regulation of corneal endothelial wound healing. Exp Eye Res 2021; 205:108517. [PMID: 33617851 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial dysfunction usually induces corneal haze and oedema, which seriously affect visual function. The main therapeutic strategy for this condition is corneal transplantation, but the use of this strategy is limited by the shortage of healthy donor corneas. Compared with corneal transplantation, drug intervention is less invasive and more accessible; thus, finding an effective pharmaceutical alternative for cornea transplantation is critical for the treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction. In this study, we established a rabbit scratch model to investigate the effect of fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) on corneal endothelial wound healing. Results showed that FGF10 injection accelerated the recovery of corneal transparency and increased the protein expression levels of ZO1, Na+/K+-ATPase and AQP-1. Moreover, FGF10 significantly inhibited the expression levels of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition proteins and reduced the expression levels of the proinflammatory factors IL-1β and TNF-α in the anterior chamber aqueous humour. FGF10 also enhanced the Na+/K+-ATPase activity by enhancing mitochondrial function as a result of its direct interaction with its conjugate receptor. Thus, FGF10 could be a new pharmaceutical preparation as treatment for corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Can Zhao
- Shandong Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Haoyun Duan
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Chunxiao Dong
- Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Yajie Gong
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Zongyi Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.
| | - Weiyun Shi
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China; Shandong Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University &Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Clinicopathologic Correlations of Retrocorneal Membranes Associated With Endothelial Corneal Graft Failure. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 222:24-33. [PMID: 32810471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide clinicopathologic correlations for retrocorneal membranes associated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) failure. DESIGN Retrospective case series. METHODS The specimens and medical records of the patients diagnosed with clinically significant retrocorneal membranes associated with DSAEK failure at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute or the University of Miami Veterans Hospital between October 2015 and March 2020 were reviewed for demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, and surgeries performed. Histopathologic analysis was performed on hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff sections. Immunohistochemical studies were performed for smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), pancytokeratin, and CK7. Immunofluorescence was performed for vimentin, N-cadherin, ROCK1, RhoA, ZEB1, and Snail. RESULTS A total of 7 patients (3 male and 4 female) were identified to have a clinically significant retrocorneal membranes at the time of graft failure. The average age at the time of first DSAEK was 70 years (range: 55-85 years). All patients were pseudophakic and had a glaucoma drainage device in place; 1 had a history of failed DSAEK. Ranging from 0 to 47 months after surgery, a variably thick retrocorneal fibrous membrane was observed, eventually leading to graft failure. Four patients underwent subsequent penetrating keratoplasty and 3 underwent repeat DSAEK. On histopathologic evaluation, a pigmented fibrocellular tissue was identified along the posterior margin of the corneas and DSAEK buttons in all cases. Further characterization with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence demonstrated membranes to be negative for pancytokeratin and positive for α-SMA, vimentin, CK7, N-cadherin, ZEB1, Snail, ROCK1, and RhoA. CONCLUSIONS Fibrocellular retrocorneal membrane proliferation may be associated with DSAEK failure in patients with previous glaucoma drainage device surgery. Our results demonstrate myofibroblastic differentiation and a lack of epithelial differentiation. Positivity for markers of an endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition indicates possible endothelial origin and could be the hallmark for future targeted pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
|
40
|
Guérin LP, Le-Bel G, Desjardins P, Couture C, Gillard E, Boisselier É, Bazin R, Germain L, Guérin SL. The Human Tissue-Engineered Cornea (hTEC): Recent Progress. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031291. [PMID: 33525484 PMCID: PMC7865732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Each day, about 2000 U.S. workers have a job-related eye injury requiring medical treatment. Corneal diseases are the fifth cause of blindness worldwide. Most of these diseases can be cured using one form or another of corneal transplantation, which is the most successful transplantation in humans. In 2012, it was estimated that 12.7 million people were waiting for a corneal transplantation worldwide. Unfortunately, only 1 in 70 patients received a corneal graft that same year. In order to provide alternatives to the shortage of graftable corneas, considerable progress has been achieved in the development of living corneal substitutes produced by tissue engineering and designed to mimic their in vivo counterpart in terms of cell phenotype and tissue architecture. Most of these substitutes use synthetic biomaterials combined with immortalized cells, which makes them dissimilar from the native cornea. However, studies have emerged that describe the production of tridimensional (3D) tissue-engineered corneas using untransformed human corneal epithelial cells grown on a totally natural stroma synthesized by living corneal fibroblasts, that also show appropriate histology and expression of both extracellular matrix (ECM) components and integrins. This review highlights contributions from laboratories working on the production of human tissue-engineered corneas (hTECs) as future substitutes for grafting purposes. It overviews alternative models to the grafting of cadaveric corneas where cell organization is provided by the substrate, and then focuses on their 3D counterparts that are closer to the native human corneal architecture because of their tissue development and cell arrangement properties. These completely biological hTECs are therefore very promising as models that may help understand many aspects of the molecular and cellular mechanistic response of the cornea toward different types of diseases or wounds, as well as assist in the development of novel drugs that might be promising for therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louis-Philippe Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Gaëtan Le-Bel
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Pascale Desjardins
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Camille Couture
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Elodie Gillard
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Élodie Boisselier
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Richard Bazin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lucie Germain
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Sylvain L. Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-418-682-7565
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ong Tone S, Kocaba V, Böhm M, Wylegala A, White TL, Jurkunas UV. Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy: The vicious cycle of Fuchs pathogenesis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 80:100863. [PMID: 32438095 PMCID: PMC7648733 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is the most common primary corneal endothelial dystrophy and the leading indication for corneal transplantation worldwide. FECD is characterized by the progressive decline of corneal endothelial cells (CECs) and the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM) excrescences in Descemet's membrane (DM), called guttae, that lead to corneal edema and loss of vision. FECD typically manifests in the fifth decades of life and has a greater incidence in women. FECD is a complex and heterogeneous genetic disease where interaction between genetic and environmental factors results in cellular apoptosis and aberrant ECM deposition. In this review, we will discuss a complex interplay of genetic, epigenetic, and exogenous factors in inciting oxidative stress, auto(mito)phagy, unfolded protein response, and mitochondrial dysfunction during CEC degeneration. Specifically, we explore the factors that influence cellular fate to undergo apoptosis, senescence, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These findings will highlight the importance of abnormal CEC-DM interactions in triggering the vicious cycle of FECD pathogenesis. We will also review clinical characteristics, diagnostic tools, and current medical and surgical management options for FECD patients. These new paradigms in FECD pathogenesis present an opportunity to develop novel therapeutics for the treatment of FECD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Ong Tone
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Myriam Böhm
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Adam Wylegala
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tomas L White
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Cornea Center of Excellence, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Khalili M, Asadi M, Kahroba H, Soleyman MR, Andre H, Alizadeh E. Corneal endothelium tissue engineering: An evolution of signaling molecules, cells, and scaffolds toward 3D bioprinting and cell sheets. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:3275-3303. [PMID: 33090510 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cornea is an avascular and transparent tissue that focuses light on retina. Cornea is supported by the corneal-endothelial layer through regulation of hydration homeostasis. Restoring vision in patients afflicted with corneal endothelium dysfunction-mediated blindness most often requires corneal transplantation (CT), which faces considerable constrictions due to donor limitations. An emerging alternative to CT is corneal endothelium tissue engineering (CETE), which involves utilizing scaffold-based methods and scaffold-free strategies. The innovative scaffold-free method is cell sheet engineering, which typically generates cell layers surrounded by an intact extracellular matrix, exhibiting tunable release from the stimuli-responsive surface. In some studies, scaffold-based or scaffold-free technologies have been reported to achieve promising outcomes. However, yet some issues exist in translating CETE from bench to clinical practice. In this review, we compare different corneal endothelium regeneration methods and elaborate on the application of multiple cell types (stem cells, corneal endothelial cells, and endothelial precursors), signaling molecules (growth factors, cytokines, chemical compounds, and small RNAs), and natural and synthetic scaffolds for CETE. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of three-dimensional bioprinting strategies and simulation of Descemet's membrane by biomimetic topography. Finally, we dissected the recent advances, applications, and prospects of cell sheet engineering for CETE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Khalili
- Drug Applied Research Center and Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Asadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Houman Kahroba
- Biomedicine Institute, and Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Soleyman
- CinnaGen Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Helder Andre
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center and Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Okumura N, Koizumi N. Review and perspective of tissue engineering therapy for the treatment of corneal endothelial decompensation. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2020.1811088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Price MO, Mehta JS, Jurkunas UV, Price FW. Corneal endothelial dysfunction: Evolving understanding and treatment options. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 82:100904. [PMID: 32977001 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is exquisitely designed to protect the eye while transmitting and focusing incoming light. Precise control of corneal hydration by the endothelial cell layer that lines the inner surface of the cornea is required for optimal transparency, and endothelial dysfunction or damage can result in corneal edema and visual impairment. Advances in corneal transplantation now allow selective replacement of dysfunctional corneal endothelium, providing rapid visual rehabilitation. A series of technique improvements have minimized complications and various adaptations allow use even in eyes with complicated anatomy. While selective endothelial keratoplasty sets a very high standard for safety and efficacy, a shortage of donor corneas in many parts of the world restricts access, prompting a search for alternatives. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the potential for self-recovery after removal of dysfunctional central endothelium in patients with healthy peripheral endothelium. Various approaches to using cultured human corneal endothelial cells are also in clinical trials; these aim to multiply cells from a single donor cornea for use in potentially hundreds of patients. Pre-clinical studies are underway with induced pluripotent stem cells, endothelial stem cell regeneration, gene therapy, anti-sense oligonucleotides, and various biologic/pharmacologic approaches designed to treat, prevent, or retard corneal endothelial dysfunction. The availability of more therapeutic options will hopefully expand access around the world while also allowing treatment to be more precisely tailored to each individual patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne O Price
- Cornea Research Foundation of America, 9002 N. Meridian St., Suite 212, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave #08-00, 168751, Singapore
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francis W Price
- Price Vision Group, 9002 N. Meridian St., Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Lee J, Jung E, Gestoso K, Heur M. ZEB1 Mediates Fibrosis in Corneal Endothelial Mesenchymal Transition Through SP1 and SP3. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:41. [PMID: 32721022 PMCID: PMC7425726 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose ZEB1 is induced during endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EnMT) in the cornea. Induction of SP1 and SP3 by ZEB1 along with identification of putative SP1 and SP3 binding sites in promoters of EnMT-associated gene lead us to investigate their roles in retrocorneal membrane formation in the corneal endothelium. Methods Expressions of SP1, SP3, and EnMT associated genes were analyzed by immunoblotting and semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Accell SMARTpool siRNAs targeting ZEB1, SP1, and SP3 were used for gene knockdown. SP1 and SP3 binding to promoters of EnMT associated genes was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Corneal endothelium in mice was surgically injured in vivo under direct visualization. Results Transient Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 stimulation increased the expression of both SP1 and SP3 in the human corneal endothelium ex vivo. ZEB1 siRNA knockdown inhibited FGF2-induced SP1 mRNA and protein but not the expression of SP3. FGF2-induced expression of EnMT-related genes, such as fibronectin, vimentin, and type I collagen, was reduced by both SP1 and SP3 siRNA knockdown, with inhibition of SP1 having a greater inhibitory effect than SP3. Additionally, although SP1 and SP3 proteins were found to bind together, SP1 and SP3 could bind to the same promoter binding sites of EnMT-related genes in the absence of the other. Moreover, siRNA knockdown of Zeb1 inhibited injury-dependent RCM formation in mouse corneal endothelium in vivo. Conclusions Zeb1, through SP1 and SP3, plays a central role in mesenchymal transition induced fibrosis in the corneal endothelium and suggests that Zeb1 could be targeted to inhibit anterior segment fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- JeongGoo Lee
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Eric Jung
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | | | - Martin Heur
- USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhang J, Ahmad AM, Ng H, Shi J, McGhee CNJ, Patel DV. Successful culture of human transition zone cells. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 48:689-700. [DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Amatul M. Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Hannah Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Jane Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Charles N. J. McGhee
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Dipika V. Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences The University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Revisiting Existing Evidence of Corneal Endothelial Progenitors and Their Potential Therapeutic Applications in Corneal Endothelial Dysfunction. Adv Ther 2020; 37:1034-1048. [PMID: 32002810 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01237-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A recent successful clinical trial demonstrated that a less invasive cell-injection procedure is a viable medical modality for treating corneal endothelial dystrophy. This medical advance still relies on human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) sources derived from rare cornea donations. The progenitor of the corneal endothelium, which has the characteristics of active proliferation and lineage restriction, will be an ideal cell source for expansion ex vivo. However, the distribution of progenitor-like cells in the corneal endothelial sheet has been under debate for more than a decade. METHODS This paper re-examines the scientific evidence of the existence of human corneal endothelial progenitors (HCEPs) from the aspects of (1) the origin of cornea formation during ocular development, (2) manifestations from clinical studies, and (3) the distinctive properties of ex vivo-cultured subpopulations. RESULTS The discrepancies regarding different types of progenitor-like cells in various locations of the cornea are based on the fact that the corneal endothelium is derived from different cell types with multiple origins during corneal formation. CONCLUSIONS Resolving this long-standing issue in corneal biology will enable various types of progenitors to be isolated and their potencies regarding the formation of functional endothelial cells to be examined. Additionally, an effective niche system for quantitatively producing therapeutic cells can be formulated to satisfy the burning need associated with corneal endothelial dystrophy in the future.
Collapse
|
48
|
Exploring the Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome for Corneal Endothelial Proliferation. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:5891393. [PMID: 32089707 PMCID: PMC7025074 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5891393] [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: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo grown human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnC) are a new emerging treatment option to treat visually impaired patients aimed at alleviating the current global donor shortage. Expanding HCEnC is still challenging, and obtaining cells in sufficient quantities is a limiting factor. It is already known that conditioned medium obtained from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can stimulate the proliferation of endothelial cells. The aim of this study was to take this work a step further to identify some of the underlying factors responsible. We confirmed the stimulatory effect of the mesenchymal stem cell secretome seen previously and separated the exosomes from the soluble proteins using size exclusion chromatography. We demonstrated the presence of exosomes and soluble proteins in the early and late fractions, respectively, with transmission electron microscopy and protein assays. Proliferation studies demonstrated that growth stimulation could be reproduced with the later protein-rich fractions but not with the exosome-rich fraction. Antibody assays revealed the presence of the secreted proteins EGF, IGFBP2, and IGFBP6 in protein-high fractions, but the growth enhancement was not seen with purified protein formulations. In conclusion, we confirmed the stimulatory effect of stem cell-conditioned medium and have determined that the effect was attributable to the proteins rather than to the exosomes. We were not able to reproduce the growth stimulation, however, with the pure recombinant protein candidates tested. Specific identification of the underlying proteins using proteomics could render a bioactive protein that can be used for ex vivo expansion of cells or as an in vivo drug to treat early corneal endothelial damage.
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Penetrating keratoplasty was the only therapeutic choice for the treatment of corneal endothelial decompensation until the introduction of evolutional endothelial keratoplasties, namely Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). Although now in widespread use, DSAEK and DMEK still have associated problems, such as difficulty of the surgical technique, acute and chronic cell loss, and shortage of donor corneas. Therefore, regeneration of the corneal endothelium by tissue engineering techniques is being researched to overcome these problems. The concept of transplantation of cultured corneal endothelial cells (CECs) was proposed in the 1970s. However, cultivation of human CECs (HCECs) in sufficient quantity and with acceptable quality for clinical use has proven surprisingly difficult, and the development of methods for transplanting cultured HCECs has been necessary. Numerous research groups have developed culture protocols and techniques that are now bringing corneal endothelial regeneration closer to real-world therapy. For instance, we started a clinical trial in 2013 involving the injection of cultured HCECs into the anterior chamber of patients with corneal endothelial decompensation. This review outlines the rapid progression of this research field, including clinical trial results, and is also intended to identify topics that still require further research or discussion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okumura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Noriko Koizumi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Parekh M, Peh G, Mehta JS, Ramos T, Ponzin D, Ahmad S, Ferrari S. Passaging capability of human corneal endothelial cells derived from old donors with and without accelerating cell attachment. Exp Eye Res 2019; 189:107814. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|