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Zou J, Wu B, Tao Y, Liu Z, Zhao H, Wang P, Liang Y, Qu J, Zhang S. Inhibition of the rapamycin-insensitive mTORC1 /4E-BP1 axis attenuates TGF-β1-induced fibrotic response in human Tenon's fibroblasts. Exp Eye Res 2024; 244:109927. [PMID: 38750784 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109927] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Subconjunctival fibrosis is the major cause of failure in both conventional and modern minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGSs) with subconjunctival filtration. The search for safe and effective anti-fibrotic agents is critical for improving long-term surgical outcomes. In this study, we investigated the effect of inhibiting the rapamycin-insensitive mTORC1/4E-BP1 axis on the transforming growth factor-beta 1(TGF-β1)-induced fibrotic responses in human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs), as well as in a rat model of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). Primary cultured HTFs were treated with 3 ng/mL TGF-β1 for 24 h, followed by treatment with 10 μM CZ415 for additional 24 h. Rapamycin (10 μM) was utilized as a control for mTORC1/4E-BP1 signaling insensitivity. The expression levels of fibrosis-associated molecules were measured using quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence analysis. Cell migration was assessed through the scratch wound assay. Additionally, a rat model of GFS was employed to evaluate the anti-fibrotic effect of CZ415 in vivo. Our findings indicated that both rapamycin and CZ415 treatment significantly reduced the TGF-β1-induced cell proliferation, migration, and the expression of pro-fibrotic factors in HTFs. CZ415 also more effectively inhibited TGF-β1-mediated collagen synthesis in HTFs compared to rapamycin. Activation of mTORC1/4E-BP signaling following TGF-β1 exposure was highly suppressed by CZ415 but was only modestly inhibited by rapamycin. Furthermore, CZ415 was found to decrease subconjunctival collagen deposition in rats post GFS. Our results suggest that rapamycin-insensitive mTORC1/4E-BP1 signaling plays a critical role in TGF-β1-driven collagen synthesis in HTFs. This study demonstrated that inhibition of the mTORC1/4E-BP1 axis offers superior anti-fibrotic efficacy compared to rapamycin and represents a promising target for improving the success rate of both traditional and modern GFSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Zou
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Binrong Wu
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yan Tao
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zuimeng Liu
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huanyu Zhao
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Pin Wang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuanbo Liang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, China; Glaucoma Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jia Qu
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Shaodan Zhang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Wenzhou, China; Glaucoma Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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Lee SS, Nagar S, Rajagopalan L, Orilla W, Csaky KG, Almazan A, Yang L, Robinson MR. Using a Novel, Subconjunctival, Sustained-Release Mitomycin C Formulation in a Rabbit Model of Filtration Surgery with Gel Stent Implantation. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2024; 40:297-308. [PMID: 38687355 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0100] [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] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate gel stent implantation with and without intraoperative sustained-release mitomycin C (MMC SR) in a rabbit model for gel stent implantation, and to examine aqueous humor outflow (AHO) postimplantation. Methods: Four groups of rabbits were included. Group 1 was untreated (control). Groups 2, 3, and 4 received the gel stent without MMC, with MMC solution (subconjunctival injection), and with MMC SR (subconjunctival injection), respectively. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and AHO were assessed via tonometry and indocyanine green-based angiography, respectively. The main efficacy measure was change in IOP from baseline. Results: Following gel stent implantation, Groups 2, 3, and 4 maintained ≥20% IOP reduction (response) for a median duration of 1 week, 6.5 weeks, and 30 weeks, respectively. Angiography showed normal aqueous humor drainage (Group 1) beginning at the perilimbal trabecular plexus and continuing posteriorly to episcleral outflow vessels. Following implantation, drainage occurred preferentially and directly into the subconjunctival bleb. Conclusions: Gel stent implantation with MMC SR was most effective in achieving sustained, long-term IOP reduction in the rabbit model, compared with implantation with or without MMC solution. Bleb presence and the postimplantation aqueous angiography results indicated redirection of the AHO to the subconjunctival vasculature and presumed lymphatics, suggesting efficient glaucoma filtration to lower IOP in this model. This rabbit model and aqueous angiography may help refine understanding of the mechanism of action of minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries and ultimately translate to improved surgical devices and procedures for patients with glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Lee
- Allergan, an AbbVie company, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Saumya Nagar
- Allergan, an AbbVie company, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | | | - Karl G Csaky
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - Liuqing Yang
- Allergan, an AbbVie company, Irvine, California, USA
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Wu J, Zhou L, Liu Y, Zhang X, Yang Y, Zhu X, Bu Q, Shan X, Yin J, Weinreb RN, Zhou Q, Pan X, Huang AS. VEGF-C and 5-Fluorouracil Improve Bleb Survival in a Rabbit Glaucoma Surgery Trabeculectomy Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:32. [PMID: 38771570 PMCID: PMC11114614 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.5.32] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate VEGF-C-induced lymphoproliferation in conjunction with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) antimetabolite treatment in a rabbit glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) model. Methods Thirty-two rabbits underwent GFS and were assigned to four groups (n = 8 each) defined by subconjunctival drug treatment: (a) VEGF-C combined with 5-FU, (b) 5-FU, (c) VEGF-C, (d) and control. Bleb survival, bleb measurements, and IOP were evaluated over 30 days. At the end, histology and anterior segment OCT were performed on some eyes. mRNA was isolated from the remaining eyes for RT-PCR evaluation of vessel-specific markers (lymphatics, podoplanin and LYVE-1; and blood vessels, CD31). Results Qualitatively and quantitatively, VEGF-C combined with 5-FU resulted in blebs which were posteriorly longer and wider than the other conditions: vs. 5-FU (P = 0.043 for longer, P = 0.046 for wider), vs. VEGF-C (P < 0.001, P < 0.001) and vs. control (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). After 30 days, the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition resulted in longer bleb survival compared with 5-FU (P = 0.025), VEGF-C (P < 0.001), and control (P < 0.001). Only the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition showed a negative correlation between IOP and time that was statistically significant (r = -0.533; P = 0.034). Anterior segment OCT and histology demonstrated larger blebs for the VEGF-C combined with 5-FU condition. Only conditions including VEGF-C led to increased expression of lymphatic markers (LYVE-1, P < 0.001-0.008 and podoplanin, P = 0.002-0.011). Expression of CD31 was not different between the groups (P = 0.978). Conclusions Adding VEGF-C lymphoproliferation to standard antimetabolite treatment improved rabbit GFS success and may suggest a future strategy to improve human GFSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Wu
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Longfang Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yameng Liu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Yuanhang Yang
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinyuan Zhu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qianwen Bu
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinmiao Shan
- Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jia Yin
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Robert N. Weinreb
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Qingjun Zhou
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Alex S. Huang
- Hamilton Glaucoma Center, The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, United States
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Fan Gaskin JC, Kong RCK, Shah MH, Edgley AJ, Peshavariya HM, Chan EC. Inhibitory Effects of 3',4'-Dihydroxyflavonol in a Mouse Model of Glaucoma Filtration Surgery and TGFβ1-Induced Responses in Human Tenon's Fibroblasts. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:18. [PMID: 35980669 PMCID: PMC9404366 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.8.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cytotoxic agents such as mitomycin C (MMC) are part of the mainstay treatment for limiting subconjunctival scarring following glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). However, a safer antifibrotic therapy is clinically needed. The anti-scarring properties of 3′,4′-dihydroxyflavonol (DiOHF) were evaluated in a mouse model of GFS and in cultured human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs). Methods GFS was performed in C57BL/6 mice receiving daily intraperitoneal injections of DiOHF or vehicle or a single intraoperative injection of MMC. Eyes were harvested on day 14 for assessment of collagen deposition, expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31), and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE) in the conjunctiva/Tenon's layer. The inhibitory effects of DiOHF on transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-induced responses were also assessed in HTFs. Results Treatment with DiOHF demonstrated a reduction in collagen deposition at the GFS site compared to vehicle-treated mice. The degree of 4HNE-positive fluorescence was significantly reduced in DiOHF-treated eyes compared to the other groups, indicating a decrease in oxidative stress. A reduction in expression of α-SMA and CD31 was seen in DiOHF-treated conjunctiva compared to those treated with vehicle. Concordant results were demonstrated in cultured HTFs in vitro. Furthermore, treatment of cultured HTFs with DiOHF also displayed a reduction in the proliferation, migration, and contractility of HTFs. Conclusions Treatment with DiOHF reduces scarring and angiogenesis in the conjunctiva of mice with GFS at a level comparable to MMC. The reduction in oxidative stress suggests that DiOHF may suppress scarring via different mechanisms from MMC. Translational Relevance DiOHF may be a safer and superior wound modulating agent than conventional antifibrotic therapy in GFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Fan Gaskin
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Glaucoma Investigation and Research Unit, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Roy C K Kong
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Manisha H Shah
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amanda J Edgley
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hitesh M Peshavariya
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elsa C Chan
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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5
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Valproic acid modulates collagen architecture in the postoperative conjunctival scar. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:947-961. [PMID: 35583819 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02171-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA), widely used for the treatment of neurological disorders, has anti-fibrotic activity by reducing collagen production in the postoperative conjunctiva. In this study, we investigated the capacity of VPA to modulate the postoperative collagen architecture. Histochemical examination revealed that VPA treatment was associated with the formation of thinner collagen fibers in the postoperative days 7 and 14 scars. At the micrometer scale, measurements by quantitative multiphoton microscopy indicated that VPA reduced mean collagen fiber thickness by 1.25-fold. At the nanometer scale, collagen fibril thickness and diameter measured by transmission electron microscopy were decreased by 1.08- and 1.20-fold, respectively. Moreover, delicate filamentous structures in random aggregates or closely associated with collagen fibrils were frequently observed in VPA-treated tissue. At the molecular level, VPA reduced Col1a1 but induced Matn2, Matn3, and Matn4 in the postoperative day 7 conjunctival tissue. Elevation of matrilin protein expression induced by VPA was sustained till at least postoperative day 14. In primary conjunctival fibroblasts, Matn2 expression was resistant to both VPA and TGF-β2, Matn3 was sensitive to both VPA and TGF-β2 individually and synergistically, while Matn4 was modulable by VPA but not TGF-β2. MATN2, MATN3, and MATN4 localized in close association with COL1A1 in the postoperative conjunctiva. These data indicate that VPA has the capacity to reduce collagen fiber thickness and potentially collagen assembly, in association with matrilin upregulation. These properties suggest potential VPA application for the prevention of fibrotic progression in the postoperative conjunctiva. KEY MESSAGES: VPA reduces collagen fiber and fibril thickness in the postoperative scar. VPA disrupts collagen fiber assembly in conjunctival wound healing. VPA induces MATN2, MATN3, and MATN4 in the postoperative scar.
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6
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van Mechelen RJS, Wolters JE, Bertens CJF, Webers CAB, van den Biggelaar FJHM, Gorgels TGMF, Beckers HJM. Animal models and drug candidates for use in glaucoma filtration surgery: A systematic review. Exp Eye Res 2022; 217:108972. [PMID: 35114212 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.108972] [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: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma, a degenerative disease of the optic nerve, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Currently, there is no curative treatment. The only proven treatment is lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), the most important risk factor. Glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) can effectively lower IOP. However, approximately 10% of all surgeries fail yearly due to excessive wound healing, leading to fibrosis. GFS animal models are commonly used for the development of novel treatment modalities. The aim of the present review was to provide an overview of available animal models and anti-fibrotic drug candidates. MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched. Manuscripts until September 1st, 2021 were included. Studies that used animal models of GFS were included in this review. Additionally, the snowball method was used to identify other publications which had not been identified through the systematic search. Two hundred articles were included in this manuscript. Small rodents (e.g. mice and rats) are often used to study the fibrotic response after GFS and to test drug candidates. Due to their larger eyes, rabbits are better suited to develop medical devices. Novel drugs aim to inhibit specific pathways, e.g. through the use of modulators, monoclonal antibodies, aqueous suppressants or gene therapy. Although most newly studied drugs offer a higher safety profile compared to antimetabolites, their efficacy is in most cases lower when compared to MMC. Current literature on animal models and potential drug candidates for GFS were summarized in this review. Future research should focus on refining current animal models (for example through the induction of glaucoma prior to undertaking GFS) and standardizing animal research to ensure a higher reproducibility and reliability across different research groups. Lastly, novel therapies need to be further optimized, e.g. by conducting more research on the dosage, administration route, application frequency, the option of creating combination therapies, or the development of drug delivery systems for sustained release of anti-fibrotic medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph J S van Mechelen
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Chemelot Institute for Science and Technology (InSciTe), 6229 GS, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jarno Ej Wolters
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Chemelot Institute for Science and Technology (InSciTe), 6229 GS, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Christian J F Bertens
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Chemelot Institute for Science and Technology (InSciTe), 6229 GS, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Carroll A B Webers
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J H M van den Biggelaar
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Theo G M F Gorgels
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Henny J M Beckers
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), 6202 AZ, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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7
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Seet LF, Yap ZL, Chu SWL, Toh LZ, Ibrahim FI, Teng X, Wong TT. Effects of Valproic Acid and Mitomycin C Combination Therapy in a Rabbit Model of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:30. [PMID: 35044442 PMCID: PMC8787605 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.1.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of combination therapy consisting of low-dose mitomycin C (MMC) and valproic acid (VPA) against high-dose MMC for improving the scar phenotype in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Methods A rabbit model of MIGS incorporating the PreserFlo MicroShunt was treated with high (0.4 mg/mL) or low (0.1 mg/mL) doses of MMC or with combination therapy consisting of low-dose (0.1 mg/mL) MMC and VPA. Operated eyes were examined by live ocular imaging, histochemical evaluation, multiphoton quantitation of collagen characteristics, and molecular analyses. Results Although high-dose MMC obliterated the vasculature, combination therapy vastly improved the postoperative tissue morphology by maintaining the vasculature without increased vascularization. Combination therapy also altered collagen morphology and reduced encapsulation of the MicroShunt distal end, which remained at risk with MMC treatment alone. Multiphoton quantitation indicated that the combination therapy significantly reduced collagen density and fiber dimensions compared with monotherapy. At the molecular level, combination therapy significantly reduced Vegfa, Vegfc, and Vegfd expression and inhibited Col1a1 upregulation from baseline levels, all of which low-dose MMC alone was unable to achieve. Notably, COL1A1 protein levels appeared more consistently suppressed by combination therapy compared with high-dose MMC alone. Conclusions Compared with high-dose MMC, combination therapy was less toxic by sparing the vasculature and potentially more effective in reducing scarring via the regulation of collagen content and organization. Translational Relevance VPA may be combined with low-dose MMC to replace high-dose MMC to deliver safe and effective anti-scarring outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fong Seet
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhu Li Yap
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | | | | | | | | | - Tina T Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
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Nox4 Facilitates TGFβ1-Induced Fibrotic Response in Human Tenon's Fibroblasts and Promotes Wound Collagen Accumulation in Murine Model of Glaucoma Filtration Surgery. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111126. [PMID: 33202904 PMCID: PMC7696451 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen accumulation in sub-conjunctival tissue at the surgical wound is one of the major complications associated with glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). This process often leads to unwanted fibrotic scar formation at the lesion site and dysfunction of tissues. Previously, we demonstrated that NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) is implicated in transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ)-induced collagen production in ocular fibroblasts and scarring responses in a mouse model of corneal injury. Here, we propose that Nox4 is an important facilitator of TGFβ-induced responses. We tested this hypothesis in human Tenon’s fibroblasts (HTF) and also assessed a role of Nox4 in an experimental mouse model of GFS. TGFβ1 induced Nox4 mRNA expression but downregulated Nox5 in HTF. Targeting Nox4 gene expression with an adenovirus carrying a Nox4 small interfering RNA (siRNA) (Ad-Nox4i) or removal of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with EUK-134 (25 μM) in HTFs significantly reduced TGFβ1-induced Nox4 expression, H2O2 production, and collagen synthesis (p < 0.05, n = 3–6). SIS3 (5 μM) that prevents Smad3 phosphorylation is found to suppress TGFβ1-induced collagen production in HTFs. Furthermore, Ad-Nox4i and EUK-134 both abolished TGFβ1-stimulated proliferation of HTFs. We also compared collagen deposition at the wound arising from GFS between wildtype (WT) and Nox4 knockout (KO) mice. Both collagen deposition and fibrovascularization at the wound were significantly decreased in Nox4 KO mice at 14 days after GFS. Our results provide comprehensive evidence that Nox4 is an important mediator for TGFβ1-induced responses in HTFs and collagen deposition in surgical wound following GFS in mice. As such, pharmacological inhibition of Nox4 would be a viable therapeutic strategy for the control of scarring after glaucoma surgery.
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9
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A Tenon's capsule/bulbar conjunctiva interface biomimetic to model fibrosis and local drug delivery. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241569. [PMID: 33141875 PMCID: PMC7608904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma filtration surgery is one of the most effective methods for lowering intraocular pressure in glaucoma. The surgery efficiently reduces intra-ocular pressure but the most common cause of failure is scarring at the incision site. This occurs in the conjunctiva/Tenon’s capsule layer overlying the scleral coat of the eye. Currently used antimetabolite treatments to prevent post-surgical scarring are non-selective and are associated with potentially blinding side effects. Developing new treatments to target scarring requires both a better understanding of wound healing and scarring in the conjunctiva, and new means of delivering anti-scarring drugs locally and sustainably. By combining plastic compression of collagen gels with a soft collagen-based layer, we have developed a physiologically relevant model of the sub-epithelial bulbar conjunctiva/Tenon’s capsule interface, which allows a more holistic approach to the understanding of subconjunctival tissue behaviour and local drug delivery. The biomimetic tissue hosts both primary human conjunctival fibroblasts and an immune component in the form of macrophages, morphologically and structurally mimicking the mechanical proprieties and contraction kinetics of ex vivo porcine conjunctiva. We show that our model is suitable for the screening of drugs targeting scarring and/or inflammation, and amenable to the study of local drug delivery devices that can be inserted in between the two layers of the biomimetic. We propose that this multicellular-bilayer engineered tissue will be useful to study complex biological aspects of scarring and fibrosis, including the role of inflammation, with potentially significant implications for the management of scarring following glaucoma filtration surgery and other anterior ocular segment scarring conditions. Crucially, it uniquely allows the evaluation of new means of local drug delivery within a physiologically relevant tissue mimetic, mimicking intraoperative drug delivery in vivo.
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10
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Seet LF, Chu SWL, Teng X, Toh LZ, Wong TT. Assessment of progressive alterations in collagen organization in the postoperative conjunctiva by multiphoton microscopy. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2020; 11:6495-6515. [PMID: 33282504 PMCID: PMC7687938 DOI: 10.1364/boe.403555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) commonly fails due to excessive fibrosis. As collagen structure aberrations is implicated in adverse fibrotic progression, this study aims to uncover collagen organization alterations during postoperative scarring. Via quantitative second harmonic generation/two photon excitation multiphoton imaging, we reveal the scar development and phenotype in the mouse model of conjunctival scarring. We also show that multiphoton imaging corroborated the collagen ultrastructure anomaly characteristic of the SPARC-/- mouse postoperative conjunctiva. These data improve our understanding of postoperative conjunctival scarring and further enhance the utility of this model for the development of anti-fibrotic therapeutics for GFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fong Seet
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Co-corresponding authors
| | - Stephanie W L Chu
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | | | - Li Zhen Toh
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Tina T Wong
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Glaucoma Service, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
- Co-corresponding authors
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11
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Valproic acid exerts specific cellular and molecular anti-inflammatory effects in post-operative conjunctiva. J Mol Med (Berl) 2018; 97:63-75. [PMID: 30456449 PMCID: PMC6326969 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-018-1722-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is a histone deacetylase inhibitor used clinically for neurological disorders. It is also potentially useful as anti-fibrotic therapy as it reduced collagen deposition in the post-operative conjunctiva. In this study, we further evaluated the effects of VPA on post-operative inflammation using the mouse model of conjunctival scarring. VPA, injected into the subconjunctiva immediately after surgery, did not cause any adverse tissue response when examined by live microscopy and produced an apparent reduction of proinflammatory and proangiogenic markers in immunohistological examinations. In-depth analyses of the treated operated tissues revealed that VPA selectively inhibited the CD45highF4/80low macrophage subset as well as the production of specific proinflammatory cytokines/ chemokines, including CXCL1, IL-5, IL-6, and IL-10 which were reduced by ≥ 2.0-fold. VPA also specifically reduced tissue NF-кB2 p100 protein by mean 3.87-fold. On conjunctival fibroblasts, VPA treatment resulted in decreased secretion of specific cytokines, including CCL2, VEGF-A, and IL-15. In the presence of TNF-α, VPA inhibited the induction of specific cytokines/chemokines, notably CCL5 and VEGF-A, as well as NF-кB2 p100. In corroboration, VPA suppressed TNF-α stimulation of NF-кB reporter transcription by 1.51-fold. These data indicate that VPA can modulate both proinflammatory cellular and molecular targets in a selective manner and may therefore attenuate surgery-induced conjunctival inflammation. These and previous findings suggest that, by suppressing key mediators of both inflammation and fibrosis, VPA is a useful therapeutic for improving surgical outcome involving the conjunctiva. KEY MESSAGES: VPA inhibited recruitment of a CD45highF4/80low macrophage subset. VPA reduced chemokine and cytokine levels in treated tissues. VPA selectively suppressed tissue NF-кB2 p100 levels. VPA suppressed TNF-α induction of chemokines, cytokines and NF-кB2 p100 expression. VPA suppressed TNF-α stimulation of NF-кB reporter.
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Seet LF, Toh LZ, Chu SWL, Finger SN, Chua JLL, Wong TT. Upregulation of distinct collagen transcripts in post-surgery scar tissue: a study of conjunctival fibrosis. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:751-760. [PMID: 28331057 PMCID: PMC5483006 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.028555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive accumulation of collagen is often used to assess the development of fibrosis. This study aims to identify collagen genes that define fibrosis in the conjunctiva following glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). Using the mouse model of GFS, we have identified collagen transcripts that were upregulated in the fibrotic phase of wound healing via RNA-seq. The collagen transcripts that were increased the most were encoded by Col8a1, Col11a1 and Col8a2. Further analysis of the Col8a1, Col11a1 and Col8a2 transcripts revealed their increase by 67-, 54- and 18-fold, respectively, in the fibrotic phase, compared with 12-fold for Col1a1, the most commonly evaluated collagen gene for fibrosis. However, only type I collagen was significantly upregulated at the protein level in the fibrotic phase. Type VIII and type I collagens colocalized in fibrous structures and in ACTA2-positive pericytes, and appeared to compensate for each other in expression levels. Type XI collagen showed low colocalization with both type VIII and type I collagens but can be found in association with macrophages. Furthermore, we show that both mouse and human conjunctival fibroblasts expressed elevated levels of the most highly expressed collagen genes in response to TGFβ2 treatment. Importantly, conjunctival tissues from individuals whose GF surgeries have failed due to scarring showed 3.60- and 2.78-fold increases in type VIII and I collagen transcripts, respectively, compared with those from individuals with no prior surgeries. These data demonstrate that distinct collagen transcripts are expressed at high levels in the conjunctiva after surgery and their unique expression profiles may imply differential influences on the fibrotic outcome. Summary: As well as providing an objective quantitative measure, distinct collagen genes may further aid in the characterization and definition of the development of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fong Seet
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856 .,Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074
| | - Li Zhen Toh
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856
| | - Stephanie W L Chu
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856
| | - Sharon N Finger
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856
| | - Jocelyn L L Chua
- Glaucoma Service, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168751
| | - Tina T Wong
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856 .,Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Rd, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074.,Glaucoma Service, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168751.,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Faculty Ave, Singapore 639977
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13
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da Costa Paula C, Julio G, Campos P, Pujol P, Asaad M. Effects of Mitomycin C in Early Conjunctival Inflammation after Pterygium Surgery. Curr Eye Res 2016; 42:696-700. [PMID: 27854142 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2016.1236965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare inflammatory events and graft characteristics 1 month and 6 months after conjunctival limbal autograft (CLAU) with and without intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC). METHODS This study included 69 eyes of 69 patient's eyes with pterygium. Clinical data concerning patient demography, preoperative examination including pterygium morphology, recurrence clinical assessment, and complications after CLAU with (MMC+) and without (MMC-) intraoperative MMC were all registered at 1 month and 6 months after surgery. RESULTS Thirty-five eyes were included in MMC+ and 34 in MMC-. Preoperative data were similar in both groups (Student's t test and Fisher's exact test; p > 0.05). Thirty-four (49.6%) eyes in the whole sample showed at least one inflammatory complication at 1 month after surgery. MMC- group showed a significantly higher number of cases with complications (p < 0.001; Chi2 test) (MMC+ 28.5%; MMC- 70.5%). No patients presented clinical recurrence at 1 month after surgery. The examination revealed a higher incidence of clinical hyperemia surrounding the surgical site and graft contraction on the host site on the MMC- group, both with statistical signification (p < 0.001; Chi2 test). Although the hemorrhages were less frequent in the MMC- group, there were no significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05; Chi2 test). Pyogenic granuloma developed at the surgical site in three eyes (4.37%), two of those granulomas were at the MMC- group (p > 0.05). Tendency for recurrences was significantly different between both groups (p = 0.0001; Fisher's exact test) at the end of 6 months. Thirteen (38%) eyes showed recurrence in MMC- and no cases were displayed in MMC+. Presence of at least 1 inflammatory event was only seen in 16 (23%) cases, all of them in MMC-. Specifically, 15 (44%) eyes showed hyperemia and one (3%) eye presented conjunctival hemorrhages. No new cases of pyogenic granuloma or graft contraction were seen at this time point in both groups. Hyperemia was the only specific event with significant differences between MMC- and MMC+ (p = 0.0001; Fisher's exact test) at 6 months after surgery. CONCLUSION The eyes receiving intraoperative MMC after CLAU seem to present less hyperemia and graft contraction after surgery than those that did not receive MMC as an adjuvant factor. Intraoperative MMC could be associated with a lower recurrence rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gemma Julio
- b Optics and Optometry Department , Universitat Politècnica de Cataluña UPC , Terrassa , Spain.,c Centro de Oftalmología Barraquer , Barcelona , Terrassa , Spain
| | - Pamela Campos
- d Department of Ophthalmology , Hospital de Terrassa, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa , Terrassa , Spain
| | - Pere Pujol
- d Department of Ophthalmology , Hospital de Terrassa, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa , Terrassa , Spain
| | - Mouafk Asaad
- d Department of Ophthalmology , Hospital de Terrassa, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa , Terrassa , Spain
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14
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Van Bergen T, Vandewalle E, Moons L, Stalmans I. Complementary effects of bevacizumab and MMC in the improvement of surgical outcome after glaucoma filtration surgery. Acta Ophthalmol 2015; 93:667-78. [PMID: 25988844 DOI: 10.1111/aos.12766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the optimum administration route of bevacizumab after glaucoma filtering surgery (GFS) and to investigate whether a reduced dose of mitomycin-C (MMC) in combination with bevacizumab could improve surgical outcome with a reduced incidence of side-effects. METHODS Plasma levels of bevacizumab were determined via ELISA after intracameral (IC), subconjunctival (SC) and intravitreal (IV) injections in mice, subjected to a mouse model of GFS. Application of MMC was compared to bevacizumab (SC, 25 μg) and to the combined use of both adjuvants. Surgical sponges soaked in MMC 0.02% or 0.01% were exposed to the sclera for 1 or 2 min. Treatment outcome was studied by bleb investigation. RESULTS The three administration routes of bevacizumab equally improved surgical outcome. The VEGF antibody was detected at relatively high levels in plasma shortly after IV injection, whereas it was minimally absorbed after IC and SC injections. Both bevacizumab (SC) and MMC 0.02% (2 min) similarly increased bleb area. As compared to MMC, the combined injection with bevacizumab induced an additional effect on surgical outcome. Exposure of MMC 0.02% for 1 or 2 min together with bevacizumab equally improved surgical outcome, but 2 min application induced corneal toxicity. The combined use of bevacizumab and 1-min MMC 0.01% also improved surgical outcome compared to monotherapy, although to a lesser extent than the combination with 1-min MMC 0.02%. CONCLUSIONS Adjunctive bevacizumab not only enhances the beneficial effect of MMC on surgical outcome, but also allows reducing the administration time of MMC 0.02%, thereby eliminating its toxic effects on the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evelien Vandewalle
- Department of Ophthalmology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Unit of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology; Biology Department; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
| | - Ingeborg Stalmans
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology; KU Leuven; Leuven Belgium
- Department of Ophthalmology; University Hospitals Leuven; Leuven Belgium
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15
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Seet LF, Toh LZ, Finger SN, Chu SWL, Stefanovic B, Wong TT. Valproic acid suppresses collagen by selective regulation of Smads in conjunctival fibrosis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2015; 94:321-34. [PMID: 26507880 PMCID: PMC4803820 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-015-1358-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Overproduction of type I collagen is associated with a wide range of fibrotic diseases as well as surgical failure such as in glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). Its modulation is therefore of clinical importance. Valproic acid (VPA) is known to reduce collagen in a variety of tissues with unclear mechanism of action. In this report, we demonstrate that VPA inhibited collagen production in both conjunctival fibroblasts and the mouse model of GFS. In fibroblasts, VPA decreased type I collagen expression which intensified with longer drug exposure and suppressed steady-state type I collagen promoter activity. Moreover, VPA decreased Smad2, Smad3 and Smad4 but increased Smad6 expression with a similar intensity-exposure profile. Reduction of Smad3 using small hairpin RNA and/or overexpression of Smad6 resulted in decreased collagen expression which was exacerbated when VPA was simultaneously present. Furthermore, fibrogenic TGF-β2 failed to induce collagen when VPA was present, as opposed to the myofibroblast markers, beta-actin, alpha-smooth muscle actin and tenascin-C, which were elevated by TGF-β2. VPA suppressed p3TP-Lux luciferase activity and selectively rescued Smad6 expression from suppression by TGF-β2. Notably, SMAD6 overexpression reduced the effectiveness of TGF-β2 in inducing collagen expression. In corroboration, VPA inhibited type I collagen but increased Smad6 expression in the late phase of wound healing in the mouse model of GFS. Taken together, our data indicate that VPA has the capacity to effectively suppress both steady-state and fibrogenic activation of type I collagen expression by modulating Smad expression. Hence, VPA is potentially applicable as an anti-fibrotic therapeutic by targeting collagen. Key message: • VPA modulates type I collagen expression via members of the Smad family. • VPA suppresses Smad2, Smad3 and Smad4 but upregulates Smad6. • Smad3 and Smad6 are involved in VPA regulation of steady-state collagen expression. • Smad6 is involved in VPA modulation of TGF-β-stimulated collagen expression. • VPA reduces collagen and upregulates Smad6 in the mouse model of glaucoma filtration surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fong Seet
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Li Zhen Toh
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sharon N Finger
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Stephanie W L Chu
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Branko Stefanovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Tina T Wong
- Ocular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Glaucoma Service, Singapore National Eye Center, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore, 168751, Singapore. .,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
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16
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Fernández-Ferreiro A, Santiago-Varela M, Gil-Martínez M, Parada TGC, Pardo M, González-Barcia M, Piñeiro-Ces A, Rodríguez-Ares MT, Blanco-Mendez J, Lamas MJ, Otero-Espinar FJ. Ocular safety comparison of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops used in pseudophakic cystoid macular edema prevention. Int J Pharm 2015; 495:680-91. [PMID: 26423177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.09.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) eye drops are widely used to treat ocular inflammatory conditions related to ophthalmic surgical procedures, such as pseudophakic cystoid macular edema, and they have been used for off-label treatments. The most commonly used NSAIDs are diclofenac and ketorolac and the new molecules bromfenac and nepafenac have also been used. We used primary human keratocytes in cell culture in combination with a novel technology that evaluates dynamic real-time cytotoxicity through impedance analysis. This study also included classic cell viability tests (WST-1(®) and AlamarBlue(®)), wound healing assay, Hen's Egg Test and an ex vivo histopathological assay. NSAIDs were shown to have important cytotoxicities and to retard the healing response. Furthermore, the new eye drops containing bromfenac and nepafenac were more cytotoxic than the more classical eye drops. Nevertheless, no immuno-histochemical changes or acute irritation processes were observed after the administration of any eye drops tested. Due to cytotoxicity and the total absence of discomfort and observable injuries after the administration of these drugs, significant corneal alterations, such as corneal melts, can develop without any previous warning signs of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anxo Fernández-Ferreiro
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Praza Seminario de Estudos Galegos s/n, Santiago de Compostela 1570, Spain; Pharmacy Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Travesía Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain; Clinical Pharmacology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS-ISCIII), SERGAS, Travesía da Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - María Santiago-Varela
- Ophthalmology Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Rua Ramón Baltar s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - María Gil-Martínez
- Ophthalmology Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Rua Ramón Baltar s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Tomas García-Caballero Parada
- Pathological Anatomy Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Travesía Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - María Pardo
- Obesidomic Group Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS-ISCIII), SERGAS, Travesía da Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Barcia
- Pharmacy Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Travesía Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain; Clinical Pharmacology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS-ISCIII), SERGAS, Travesía da Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Antonio Piñeiro-Ces
- Ophthalmology Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Rua Ramón Baltar s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - María Teresa Rodríguez-Ares
- Ophthalmology Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Rua Ramón Baltar s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - José Blanco-Mendez
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Praza Seminario de Estudos Galegos s/n, Santiago de Compostela 1570, Spain; Industrial Pharmacy Institute, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Praza Seminario de Estudos Galegos s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15701, Spain
| | - M J Lamas
- Pharmacy Department, Xerencia de Xestión Integrada de Santiago de Compostela, SERGAS, Travesía Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain; Clinical Pharmacology Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS-ISCIII), SERGAS, Travesía da Choupana s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15706, Spain
| | - Francisco J Otero-Espinar
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Praza Seminario de Estudos Galegos s/n, Santiago de Compostela 1570, Spain; Industrial Pharmacy Institute, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Praza Seminario de Estudos Galegos s/n, Santiago de Compostela 15701, Spain.
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17
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Hollanders K, Van Bergen T, Van de Velde S, Sijnave D, Vandewalle E, Moons L, Stalmans I. Bevacizumab Revisited: Its Use in Different Mouse Models of Ocular Pathologies. Curr Eye Res 2014; 40:611-21. [DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2014.943910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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18
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Van Bergen T, Jonckx B, Hollanders K, Sijnave D, Van de Velde S, Vandewalle E, Moons L, Stassen JM, Stalmans I. Inhibition of placental growth factor improves surgical outcome of glaucoma surgery. J Cell Mol Med 2013; 17:1632-43. [PMID: 24118824 PMCID: PMC3914639 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive post-operative wound healing with subsequent scarring frequently leads to surgical failure of glaucoma filtration surgery (trabeculectomy). We investigated the hypothesis that placental growth factor (PlGF) plays a role in post-operative scar formation, and that it therefore may be a target for improvement of filtration surgery outcome. ELISA experiments showed that PlGF levels were significantly increased in aqueous humour of glaucoma patients and after VEGF treatment, which may indicate an important contribution of this growth factor to wound healing after trabeculectomy. Using a mouse model of glaucoma filtration surgery, we were able to show that intracameral injection of a previously characterized anti-PlGF antibody (ThromboGenics NV) significantly improved surgical outcome by increasing bleb survival and bleb area. This was associated with a significant reduction in post-operative proliferation, inflammation and angiogenesis during the first post-operative days after surgery, and with a decrease in collagen deposition at later stages. Furthermore, inhibition of PlGF seemed to be more effective than anti-VEGF-R2 treatment in improving surgical outcome, possibly via its additional effect on inflammation. These results render PlGF an appealing target for ocular wound healing and point to potential therapeutic benefits of PlGF inhibition for the prevention of surgical failure.
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19
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Seet LF, Su R, Toh LZ, Wong TT. In vitro analyses of the anti-fibrotic effect of SPARC silencing in human Tenon's fibroblasts: comparisons with mitomycin C. J Cell Mol Med 2012; 16:1245-59. [PMID: 21801304 PMCID: PMC3823078 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2011.01400.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Failure of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) is commonly attributed to scarring at the surgical site. The human Tenon’s fibroblasts (HTFs) are considered the major cell type contributing to the fibrotic response. We previously showed that SPARC (secreted protein, acidic, rich in cysteine) knockout mice had improved surgical success in a murine model of GFS. To understand the mechanisms of SPARC deficiency in delaying subconjunctival fibrosis, we used the gene silencing approach to reduce SPARC expression in HTFs and examined parameters important for wound repair and fibrosis. Mitomycin C-treated HTFs were used for comparison. We demonstrate that SPARC-silenced HTFs showed normal proliferation and negligible cellular necrosis but were impaired in motility and collagen gel contraction. The expression of pro-fibrotic genes including collagen I, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-14, IL-8, MCP-1 and TGF-β2 were also reduced. Importantly, TGF-β2 failed to induce significant collagen I and fibronectin expressions in the SPARC-silenced HTFs. Together, these data demonstrate that SPARC knockdown in HTFs modulates fibroblast functions important for wound fibrosis and is therefore a promising strategy in the development of anti-scarring therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fong Seet
- Ocular Wound Healing and Therapeutics, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.
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20
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2012; 23:155-9. [DOI: 10.1097/icu.0b013e3283511bcf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Angunawela R, Poh R, Chaurasia S, Tan D, Mehta J. A mouse model of lamellar intrastromal femtosecond laser keratotomy: ultra-structural, inflammatory, and wound healing responses. Mol Vis 2011; 17:3005-12. [PMID: 22171154 PMCID: PMC3236073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2011] [Accepted: 11/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The availability of knockout mouse species provide a highly versatile platform for critically examining the corneal wound healing response. We aimed to develop and characterize the wound healing response in a mouse model of intrastromal femtosecond laser (FSL) keratotomy. METHODS An intrastromal lamellar dissection using a Visumax FSL was performed on 16 wild type mice (C57BL6) . The energy level was optimized at 150nJ. The FSL was programmed to perform a lamellar dissection at 50 µM depth without sidecut. The flap was not lifted. Fellow eyes were used as controls. Slit lamp photography and confocal microscopy were performed immediately before the mice were sacrificed 4 h, 1, 3, and 7 days post surgery. Corneas were harvested for immunocytochemistry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and light microscopy (LM). RESULTS Confocal microscopy showed an absence of keratocytes in the area immediately surrounding the dissection plane. The dissection plane and individual FSL plasma cavitation bubbles were clearly evident on TEM. There was evidence of Keratocyte cell death along the laser resection plane on TEM. LM revealed the dissection plane at a 20 µM depth, although not all epithelial cell layers were intact. Staining for monocytes using antibodies for CD11b (cluster of differentiation 11b) showed early migration at the peripheries at 4 h that increased at 24 h and became more central in treated corneas (p<0.001). Apoptotic cells were evident on TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) assay in the immediate ablation zone and were significantly raised at 4 and 24 h (p<0.001). Ki67 (Kiel 67 protein) positive proliferating keratocytes are evident at 3 days and increased significantly by 7 days (p<0.001). Minimal fibroblast (cluster of differentiation 90, CD90) transformation was seen at 1 week. No myofibroblasts were detected. DISCUSSION We have demonstrated that FSL lamellar cuts can be effectively performed on mice and that this model exhibits typical signs of the corneal wound healing response. This model could provide a ubiquitous platform in which to study corneal wound healing responses in both wild type and knockout mice species. The ability to create such a lamellar pocket may be utilizzd for intrastromal drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- R.I. Angunawela
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - R. Poh
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - S.S. Chaurasia
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - D.T. Tan
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - J.S. Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore,Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore,Department of Clinical Sciences, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
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