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Zhang Y, Yao Y, Yang J, Zhou B, Zhu Y. Inhibiting the SARM1-NAD + axis reduces oxidative stress-induced damage to retinal and nerve cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 134:112193. [PMID: 38723372 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112193] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Retinal neurodegenerative diseases are a category of refractory blinding eye conditions closely associated with oxidative stress induced by mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal cells. SARM1, a core driver molecule leading to axonal degeneration, possesses NAD+ enzyme (NADase) activity. However, the role of the SARM1-NAD+ axis in oxidative stress-induced retinal cell death remains unclear. Here, we employed the SARM1 NADase inhibitor DSRM-3716 and established a glucose oxidase (GOx)-induced oxidative stress cell model. We found that compared to the GOx group, the DSRM-3716 pre-treated group reduced the hydrolysis of NAD+, inhibited the elevation of oxidative stress markers induced by GOx, decreased mitochondrial dysfunction, lowered the phosphorylation level of JNK, and attenuated the occurrence of pyroptosis in retinal and nerve cells, thereby providing protection for neurite growth. Further utilization of the JNK activator Anisomycin activated JNK, revealed that the JNK/c-Jun pathway down-regulated NMNAT2 expression. Consequently, it reduced cellular NAD+ synthesis, exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction and cell pyroptosis, and reversed the protective effect of DSRM-3716 on cells. In summary, the inhibition of SARM1 NADase activity substantially mitigates oxidative damage to retinal cells and mitochondrial damage. Additionally, JNK simultaneously serves as both an upstream and downstream regulator in the SARM1-NAD+ axis, regulating retinal cell pyroptosis and neurite injury. Thus, this study provides new insights into the pathological processes of retinal cell oxidative stress and identifies potential therapeutic targets for retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, National Regional Medical Center, Binghai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Institute of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases and Optometry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yihua Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, National Regional Medical Center, Binghai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Institute of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases and Optometry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Juhua Yang
- The School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Biting Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, National Regional Medical Center, Binghai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Institute of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases and Optometry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Yihua Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, National Regional Medical Center, Binghai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Institute of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases and Optometry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
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Aragona M, Briglia M, Porcino C, Mhalhel K, Cometa M, Germanà PG, Montalbano G, Levanti M, Laurà R, Abbate F, Germanà A, Guerrera MC. Localization of Calretinin, Parvalbumin, and S100 Protein in Nothobranchius guentheri Retina: A Suitable Model for the Retina Aging. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2050. [PMID: 37895432 PMCID: PMC10608213 DOI: 10.3390/life13102050] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs) are members of a heterogeneous family of proteins able to buffer intracellular Ca2+ ion concentration. CaBPs are expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system, including a subpopulation of retinal neurons. Since neurons expressing different CaBPs show different susceptibility to degeneration, it could be hypothesized that they are not just markers of different neuronal subpopulations, but that they might be crucial in survival. CaBPs' ability to buffer Ca2+ cytoplasmatic concentration makes them able to defend against a toxic increase in intracellular calcium that can lead to neurodegenerative processes, including those related to aging. An emergent model for aging studies is the annual killifish belonging to the Nothobranchius genus, thanks to its short lifespan. Members of this genus, such as Nothobranchius guentheri, show a retinal stratigraphy similar to that of other actinopterygian fishes and humans. However, according to our knowledge, CaBPs' occurrence and distribution in the retina of N. guentheri have never been investigated before. Therefore, the present study aimed to localize Calretinin N-18, Parvalbumin, and S100 protein (S100p) in the N. guentheri retina with immunohistochemistry methods. The results of the present investigation demonstrate for the first time the occurrence of Calretinin N-18, Parvalbumin, and S100p in N. guentheri retina and, consequently, the potential key role of these CaBPs in the biology of the retinal cells. Hence, the suitability of N. guentheri as a model to study the changes in CaBPs' expression patterns during neurodegenerative processes affecting the retina related both to disease and aging can be assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caterina Porcino
- Zebrafish Neuromorphology Lab, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.A.); (M.B.); (K.M.); (M.C.); (P.G.G.); (G.M.); (M.L.); (R.L.); (F.A.); (A.G.); (M.C.G.)
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Kovács-Valasek A, Rák T, Pöstyéni E, Csutak A, Gábriel R. Three Major Causes of Metabolic Retinal Degenerations and Three Ways to Avoid Them. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108728. [PMID: 37240082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
An imbalance of homeostasis in the retina leads to neuron loss and this eventually results in a deterioration of vision. If the stress threshold is exceeded, different protective/survival mechanisms are activated. Numerous key molecular actors contribute to prevalent metabolically induced retinal diseases-the three major challenges are age-related alterations, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These diseases have complex dysregulation of glucose-, lipid-, amino acid or purine metabolism. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on possible ways of preventing or circumventing retinal degeneration by available methods. We intend to provide a unified background, common prevention and treatment rationale for these disorders and identify the mechanisms through which these actions protect the retina. We suggest a role for herbal medicines, internal neuroprotective substances and synthetic drugs targeting four processes: parainflammation and/or glial cell activation, ischemia and related reactive oxygen species and vascular endothelial growth factor accumulation, apoptosis and/or autophagy of nerve cells and an elevation of ocular perfusion pressure and/or intraocular pressure. We conclude that in order to achieve substantial preventive or therapeutic effects, at least two of the mentioned pathways should be targeted synergistically. A repositioning of some drugs is considered to use them for the cure of the other related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Rák
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienne Csutak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Shinozaki Y, Tega Y, Akanuma SI, Hosoya KI. The Structural Characteristics of Compounds Interacting with the Amantadine-Sensitive Drug Transport System at the Inner Blood–Retinal Barrier. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030435. [PMID: 36986534 PMCID: PMC10053584 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-to-retina transport across the inner blood–retinal barrier (BRB) is a key determinant of retinal drug concentration and pharmacological effect. Recently, we reported on the amantadine-sensitive drug transport system, which is different from well-characterized transporters, at the inner BRB. Since amantadine and its derivatives exhibit neuroprotective effects, it is expected that a detailed understanding of this transport system would lead to the efficient retinal delivery of these potential neuroprotective agents for the treatment of retinal diseases. The objective of this study was to characterize the structural features of compounds for the amantadine-sensitive transport system. Inhibition analysis conducted on a rat inner BRB model cell line indicated that the transport system strongly interacts with lipophilic amines, especially primary amines. In addition, lipophilic primary amines that have polar groups, such as hydroxy and carboxy groups, did not inhibit the amantadine transport system. Furthermore, certain types of primary amines with an adamantane skeleton or linear alkyl chain exhibited a competitive inhibition of amantadine uptake, suggesting that these compounds are potential substrates for the amantadine-sensitive drug transport system at the inner BRB. These results are helpful for producing the appropriate drug design to improve the blood-to-retina delivery of neuroprotective drugs.
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Patel C, Pande S, Sagathia V, Ranch K, Beladiya J, Boddu SHS, Jacob S, Al-Tabakha MM, Hassan N, Shahwan M. Nanocarriers for the Delivery of Neuroprotective Agents in the Treatment of Ocular Neurodegenerative Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:837. [PMID: 36986699 PMCID: PMC10052766 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030837] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal neurodegeneration is considered an early event in the pathogenesis of several ocular diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. At present, there is no definitive treatment to prevent the progression or reversal of vision loss caused by photoreceptor degeneration and the death of retinal ganglion cells. Neuroprotective approaches are being developed to increase the life expectancy of neurons by maintaining their shape/function and thus prevent the loss of vision and blindness. A successful neuroprotective approach could prolong patients' vision functioning and quality of life. Conventional pharmaceutical technologies have been investigated for delivering ocular medications; however, the distinctive structural characteristics of the eye and the physiological ocular barriers restrict the efficient delivery of drugs. Recent developments in bio-adhesive in situ gelling systems and nanotechnology-based targeted/sustained drug delivery systems are receiving a lot of attention. This review summarizes the putative mechanism, pharmacokinetics, and mode of administration of neuroprotective drugs used to treat ocular disorders. Additionally, this review focuses on cutting-edge nanocarriers that demonstrated promising results in treating ocular neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag Patel
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, India
| | - Sonal Pande
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, India
| | - Vrunda Sagathia
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, India
| | - Ketan Ranch
- Department of Pharmaceutics, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, India
| | - Jayesh Beladiya
- Department of Pharmacology, L. M. College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad 380009, India
| | - Sai H. S. Boddu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shery Jacob
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman P.O. Box 4184, United Arab Emirates
| | - Moawia M. Al-Tabakha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nageeb Hassan
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Moyad Shahwan
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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Samra YA, Zaidi Y, Rajpurohit P, Raghavan R, Cai L, Kaddour-Djebbar I, Tawfik A. Warburg Effect as a Novel Mechanism for Homocysteine-Induced Features of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021071. [PMID: 36674587 PMCID: PMC9865636 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of blindness. Recent studies have reported impaired glycolysis in AMD patients with a high lactate/pyruvate ratio. Elevated homocysteine (Hcy) (Hyperhomocysteinemia, HHcy) was observed in several clinical studies, reporting an association between HHcy and AMD. We established the effect of HHcy on barrier function, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) structure, and induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice. We hypothesize that HHcy contributes to AMD by inducing a metabolic switch in the mitochondria, in which cells predominantly produce energy by the high rate of glycolysis, or "Warburg", effect. Increased glycolysis results in an increased production of lactate, cellular acidity, activation of angiogenesis, RPE barrier dysfunction, and CNV. Evaluation of cellular energy production under HHcy was assessed by seahorse analysis, immunofluorescence, and western blot experiments. The seahorse analysis evaluated the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) as indicative of glycolysis. HHcy showed a significant increase in ECAR both in vivo using (Cystathionine β-synthase) cbs+/- and cbs-/- mice retinas and in vitro (Hcy-treated ARPE-19) compared to wild-type mice and RPE cells. Moreover, HHcy up-regulated glycolytic enzyme (Glucose transporter-1 (GlUT-1), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and hexokinase 1 (HK1)) in Hcy-treated ARPE-19 and primary RPE cells isolated from cbs+/+, cbs+/-, and cbs-/- mice retinas. Inhibition of GLUT-1 or blocking of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) reduced glycolysis in Hcy-treated RPE and improved albumin leakage and CNV induction in Hcy-injected mice eyes. The current study suggests that HHcy causes a metabolic switch in the RPE cells from mitochondrial respiration to glycolysis during AMD and confirms the involvement of NMDAR in this process. Therefore, targeting Glycolysis or NMDAR could be a novel therapeutic target for AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara A. Samra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Yusra Zaidi
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Pragya Rajpurohit
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Raju Raghavan
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Lun Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ismail Kaddour-Djebbar
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, One Freedom Way, Augusta, GA 30904, USA
| | - Amany Tawfik
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309-4479, USA
- Eye Research Center (OUWB)/ERC, William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI 48309-4479, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-248-370-2398; Fax: +1-248-370-4211
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Dos Santos FM, Ciordia S, Mesquita J, de Sousa JPC, Paradela A, Tomaz CT, Passarinha LAP. Vitreous humor proteome: unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying proliferative and neovascular vitreoretinal diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 80:22. [PMID: 36585968 PMCID: PMC11072707 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04670-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) are among the leading causes of blindness. Due to the multifactorial nature of these vitreoretinal diseases, omics approaches are essential for a deeper understanding of the pathophysiologic processes underlying the evolution to a proliferative or neovascular etiology, in which patients suffer from an abrupt loss of vision. For many years, it was thought that the function of the vitreous was merely structural, supporting and protecting the surrounding ocular tissues. Proteomics studies proved that vitreous is more complex and biologically active than initially thought, and its changes reflect the physiological and pathological state of the eye. The vitreous is the scenario of a complex interplay between inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Vitreous proteome not only reflects the pathological events that occur in the retina, but the changes in the vitreous itself play a central role in the onset and progression of vitreoretinal diseases. Therefore, this review offers an overview of the studies on the vitreous proteome that could help to elucidate some of the pathological mechanisms underlying proliferative and/or neovascular vitreoretinal diseases and to find new potential pharmaceutical targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Milhano Dos Santos
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Sergio Ciordia
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joana Mesquita
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Castro de Sousa
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, 2410-197, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Alberto Paradela
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Unidad de Proteomica, Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cândida Teixeira Tomaz
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
- C4-UBI, Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6200-501, Covilhã, Portugal
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís António Paulino Passarinha
- Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001, Covilhã, Portugal.
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade NOVA, 2819-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- Pharmaco-Toxicology Laboratory, UBIMedical, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200-000, Covilhã, Portugal.
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NMDA Receptor Antagonists Degrade Lipofuscin via Autophagy in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58081129. [PMID: 36013596 PMCID: PMC9415004 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58081129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration is a slow-progressing disease in which lipofuscin accumulates in the retina, causing inflammation and apoptosis of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. This study aimed to identify N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) signaling as a novel mechanism for scavenging N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E), a component of ocular lipofuscin, in human RPE cells. Materials and Methods: A2E degradation assays were performed in ARPE-19 cells using fluorescently labeled A2E. The autophagic activity in ARPE-19 cells was measured upon blue light (BL) exposure, after A2E treatment. Autophagy flux was determined by measuring LC3-II formation using immunoblotting and confocal microscopy. To determine whether autophagy via the NMDA receptor is involved in A2E clearance, ATG5-deficient cells were used. Results: Ro 25-6981, an NR2B-selective NMDA receptor antagonist, effectively cleared A2E. Ro 25-6981 reduced A2E accumulation in the lysosomes of ARPE-19 cells at sub-cytotoxic concentrations, while increasing the formation of LC3-II and decreasing p62 protein levels in a concentration-dependent manner. The autophagic flux monitored by RFP-GFP-LC3 and bafilomycin A1 assays was significantly increased by Ro 25-6981. A2E clearance by Ro 25-6981 was abolished in ATG5-depleted ARPE-19 cells, suggesting that A2E degradation by Ro 25-6981 was mediated by autophagy. Furthermore, treatment with other NMDA receptor antagonists, CP-101,606 and AZD6765, showed similar effects on autophagy activation and A2E degradation in ARPE-19 cells. In contrast, glutamate, an NMDA receptor agonist, exhibited a contrasting effect, suggesting that both the activation of autophagy and the degradation of A2E by Ro 25-6981 in ARPE-19 cells occur through inhibition of the NMDA receptor pathway. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that NMDA receptor antagonists degrade lipofuscin via autophagy in human RPE cells and suggests that NMDA receptor antagonists could be promising new therapeutics for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Sex Hormones and Their Effects on Ocular Disorders and Pathophysiology: Current Aspects and Our Experience. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063269. [PMID: 35328690 PMCID: PMC8949880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones are molecules produced by the gonads and to a small extent by the adrenal gland, which not only determine the primary and secondary sexual characteristics of an individual, differentiating man from woman, but also participate in the functioning of the various systems of the body. The evidence that many eye diseases differ in terms of prevalence between men and women has allowed us, in recent years, to carry out several studies that have investigated the association between sex hormones and the pathophysiology of eye tissues. Specific receptors for sex hormones have been found on the lacrimal and meibomian glands, conjunctiva, cornea, lens, retina, and choroid. This work summarizes the current knowledge on the role that sex hormones play in the pathogenesis of the most common ocular disorders and indicates our clinical experience in these situations. The aim is to stimulate an interdisciplinary approach between endocrinology, neurology, molecular biology, and ophthalmology to improve the management of these diseases and to lay the foundations for new therapeutic strategies.
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Brugnera M, Vicario-de-la-Torre M, Andrés-Guerrero V, Bravo-Osuna I, Molina-Martínez IT, Herrero-Vanrell R. Validation of a Rapid and Easy-to-Apply Method to Simultaneously Quantify Co-Loaded Dexamethasone and Melatonin PLGA Microspheres by HPLC-UV: Encapsulation Efficiency and In Vitro Release. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020288. [PMID: 35214021 PMCID: PMC8878730 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper discusses the development and validation of a rapid method for the reversed phase HPLC-UV quantification of biodegradable poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microspheres co-loaded with two neuroprotective agents (dexamethasone and melatonin) (DX-MEL-MSs) to be intravitreally administered as a promising glaucoma treatment. The study was performed to validate two procedures that quantify the content of the two active substances entrapped into the polymer matrix during an encapsulation efficiency assay and the amount of drugs liberated over time during the in vitro release assay. The reversed-phase method allowed for the simultaneous determination of dexamethasone and melatonin, which were respectively detected at 240.5 and 222.7 nm. Chromatographic separation was performed using an Ascentis® C18 HPLC Column (25 cm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) with an isocratic mobile phase composed of methanol-water (70:30, v/v) with 1.0 mL min−1 flow rate. The two procedures were validated analytically in terms of system suitability testing, specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and robustness. Both the validated procedures were applied to characterize DX-MEL-MSs and were found appropriate to quantify the drug quantities encapsulated and estimate their release profile over 10 days. The validation study designed in this work can be helpful for planning any other protocols that refer to the quantification of PLGA based drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Brugnera
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Vicario-de-la-Torre
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanessa Andrés-Guerrero
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Bravo-Osuna
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Teresa Molina-Martínez
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Herrero-Vanrell
- Innovation, Therapy and Pharmaceutical Development in Ophthalmology (InnOftal) Research Group, UCM 920415, Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.B.); (M.V.-d.-l.-T.); (V.A.-G.); (I.B.-O.); (I.T.M.-M.)
- Sanitary Research Institute of the San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Calle Profesor Martín Lagos, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Implication of N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptor in Homocysteine-Induced Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179356. [PMID: 34502266 PMCID: PMC8431693 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss. Elevated homocysteine (Hcy) (Hyperhomocysteinemia) (HHcy) has been reported in AMD. We previously reported that HHcy induces AMD-like features. This study suggests that N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a mechanism for HHcy-induced AMD. Serum Hcy and cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) were assessed by ELISA. The involvement of NMDAR in Hcy-induced AMD features was evaluated (1) in vitro using ARPE-19 cells, primary RPE isolated from HHcy mice (CBS), and mouse choroidal endothelial cells (MCEC); (2) in vivo using wild-type mice and mice deficient in RPE NMDAR (NMDARR−/−) with/without Hcy injection. Isolectin-B4, Ki67, HIF-1α, VEGF, NMDAR1, and albumin were assessed by immunofluorescence (IF), Western blot (WB), Optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography (FA) to evaluate retinal structure, fluorescein leakage, and choroidal neovascularization (CNV). A neovascular AMD patient’s serum showed a significant increase in Hcy and a decrease in CBS. Hcy significantly increased HIF-1α, VEGF, and NMDAR in RPE cells, and Ki67 in MCEC. Hcy-injected WT mice showed disrupted retina and CNV. Knocking down RPE NMDAR improved retinal structure and CNV. Our findings underscore the role of RPE NMDAR in Hcy-induced AMD features; thus, NMDAR inhibition could serve as a promising therapeutic target for AMD.
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12
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Harsing LG, Szénási G, Zelles T, Köles L. Purinergic-Glycinergic Interaction in Neurodegenerative and Neuroinflammatory Disorders of the Retina. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126209. [PMID: 34201404 PMCID: PMC8228622 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative–neuroinflammatory disorders of the retina seriously hamper human vision. In searching for key factors that contribute to the development of these pathologies, we considered potential interactions among purinergic neuromodulation, glycinergic neurotransmission, and microglia activity in the retina. Energy deprivation at cellular levels is mainly due to impaired blood circulation leading to increased release of ATP and adenosine as well as glutamate and glycine. Interactions between these modulators and neurotransmitters are manifold. First, P2Y purinoceptor agonists facilitate reuptake of glycine by glycine transporter 1, while its inhibitors reduce reverse-mode operation; these events may lower extracellular glycine levels. The consequential changes in extracellular glycine concentration can lead to parallel changes in the activity of NR1/NR2B type NMDA receptors of which glycine is a mandatory agonist, and thereby may reduce neurodegenerative events in the retina. Second, P2Y purinoceptor agonists and glycine transporter 1 inhibitors may indirectly inhibit microglia activity by decreasing neuronal or glial glycine release in energy-compromised retina. These inhibitions may have a role in microglia activation, which is present during development and progression of neurodegenerative disorders such as glaucomatous and diabetic retinopathies and age-related macular degeneration or loss of retinal neurons caused by thromboembolic events. We have hypothesized that glycine transporter 1 inhibitors and P2Y purinoceptor agonists may have therapeutic importance in neurodegenerative–neuroinflammatory disorders of the retina by decreasing NR1/NR2B NMDA receptor activity and production and release of a series of proinflammatory cytokines from microglial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo G. Harsing
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (T.Z.); (L.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-1-210-4416
| | - Gábor Szénási
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Tibor Zelles
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (T.Z.); (L.K.)
- Department of Oral Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Köles
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary; (T.Z.); (L.K.)
- Department of Oral Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1089 Budapest, Hungary
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13
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Wang Y, Wang W, Yang X, Chen W, Yang X, Pan X, Xu P, Zhu W, Han Y, Chen X. ITGA8 positive cells in the conventional outflow tissue exhibit Schlemm's canal endothelial cell properties. Life Sci 2021; 278:119564. [PMID: 33961857 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119564] [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: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Elevated intraocular pressure is primarily induced by the increased resistance of conventional outflow of aqueous humor. Dysfunction of the juxtacanalicular region of trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canal (SC) endothelium, as the main conventional outflow tissue, have been implicated as the major reasons for the increased resistance. Integrins are widespread in these tissues, especially alpha8 integrin (ITGA8). We aim to investigate the properties of cells expressing ITGA8 in the conventional outflow tissue. MAIN METHODS Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunofluorescence (IF) were performed to detect the mRNA and protein levels of ITGA8 in human conventional outflow tissue. ITGA8-positive cells were isolated from the cultured human TM cells through a magnetic bead-based approach. Flow Cytometry was used to determine the purification efficiency. The expressions of TM and SC biomarkers and dexamethasone-induced myocilin secretion capacity of ITGA8-positive cells was assessed by Real-time PCR, IF and Western blot. A gel contraction assay was performed to evaluate contractility of ITGA8-positive cells after endothelin 1 treatment. KEY FINDINGS ITGA8 was found with robust expression near the inner wall of SC endothelium. After purification, the proportion of ITGA8-positive cells were increased by about 10%. ITGA8-positive cells were identified with the properties as SC endothelial cells, such as more robust expressions of SC biomarkers, less dexamethasone-inducible myocilin expression, and stronger contractility. SIGNIFICANCE This study demonstrated that cells expressing ITGA8 in SC region possess more properties as SC endothelial cells. Our data implicate a crucial role of ITGA8 in aqueous humor (AH) outflow resistance regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Wenyan Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China
| | - Xuejiao Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Wenshi Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xian Yang
- Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiaojing Pan
- Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Peilong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China; Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang, University & Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yantao Han
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China.
| | - Xuehong Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266021, China.
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Markwell EL, Feigl B, Zele AJ. Intrinsically photosensitive melanopsin retinal ganglion cell contributions to the pupillary light reflex and circadian rhythm. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 93:137-49. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1444-0938.2010.00479.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Markwell
- Visual Science and Medical Retina Laboratory, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Optometry, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
E‐mail:
| | - Beatrix Feigl
- Visual Science and Medical Retina Laboratory, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Optometry, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
E‐mail:
| | - Andrew J Zele
- Visual Science and Medical Retina Laboratory, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Optometry, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
E‐mail:
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15
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Pereira-Figueiredo D, Nascimento AA, Cunha-Rodrigues MC, Brito R, Calaza KC. Caffeine and Its Neuroprotective Role in Ischemic Events: A Mechanism Dependent on Adenosine Receptors. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1693-1725. [PMID: 33730305 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01077-4] [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: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ischemia is characterized by a transient, insufficient, or permanent interruption of blood flow to a tissue, which leads to an inadequate glucose and oxygen supply. The nervous tissue is highly active, and it closely depends on glucose and oxygen to satisfy its metabolic demand. Therefore, ischemic conditions promote cell death and lead to a secondary wave of cell damage that progressively spreads to the neighborhood areas, called penumbra. Brain ischemia is one of the main causes of deaths and summed with retinal ischemia comprises one of the principal reasons of disability. Although several studies have been performed to investigate the mechanisms of damage to find protective/preventive interventions, an effective treatment does not exist yet. Adenosine is a well-described neuromodulator in the central nervous system (CNS), and acts through four subtypes of G-protein-coupled receptors. Adenosine receptors, especially A1 and A2A receptors, are the main targets of caffeine in daily consumption doses. Accordingly, caffeine has been greatly studied in the context of CNS pathologies. In fact, adenosine system, as well as caffeine, is involved in neuroprotection effects in different pathological situations. Therefore, the present review focuses on the role of adenosine/caffeine in CNS, brain and retina, ischemic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pereira-Figueiredo
- Neurobiology of the Retina Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Program, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - A A Nascimento
- Neurobiology of the Retina Laboratory, Program of Neurosciences, Institute of Biology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - M C Cunha-Rodrigues
- Neurobiology of the Retina Laboratory, Program of Neurosciences, Institute of Biology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - R Brito
- Laboratory of Neuronal Physiology and Pathology, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Institute of Biology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - K C Calaza
- Neurobiology of the Retina Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Program, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil. .,Neurobiology of the Retina Laboratory, Program of Neurosciences, Institute of Biology, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ, Brazil. .,Neurobiology Department, Biology Institute of Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil.
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Astragalus membranaceus Injection Protects Retinal Ganglion Cells by Regulating the Nerve Growth Factor Signaling Pathway in Experimental Rat Traumatic Optic Neuropathy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2020:2429843. [PMID: 33381196 PMCID: PMC7762646 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2429843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling pathway is a potential method of treatment for retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss due to traumatic optic neuropathy (TON). The present study aimed to explore the biological effects of injecting Astragalus membranaceus (A. mem) on RGCs in an experimental TON model. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated (SL), model (ML), and A. mem injection (AL). The left eyes of the rats were considered the experimental eyes, and the right eyes served as the controls. AL rats received daily intraperitoneal injections of A. mem (3 mL/kg), whereas ML and SL rats were administered the same volume of normal saline. The TON rat model was induced by optic nerve (ON) transverse quantitative traction. After two-week administration, the number of RGCs was determined using retrograde labeling with Fluoro-Gold. The protein levels of NGF, tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA), c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK), JNK phosphorylation (p-JNK), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) were assessed using western blotting. The levels of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and NF-κB DNA binding were examined using real-time PCR and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. In addition, the concentrations of JNK and p-JNK were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results. The number of RGCs in ML was found to be significantly decreased (P < 0.01) relative to both AL and SL, together with the downregulation of NGF (P < 0.01), TrkA (P < 0.05), and NF-κB (P < 0.01); upregulation of p75NTR mRNA (P < 0.01); and increased protein levels of JNK (P < 0.05) and p-JNK (P < 0.05). Treatment using A. mem injection significantly preserved the density of RGCs in rats with experimental TON and markedly upregulated the proteins of NGF (P < 0.01), TrkA (P < 0.05), and NF-κB (P < 0.01) and downregulated the mRNA level of p75NTR(P < 0.01), as well as the proteins of JNK (P < 0.05) and p-JNK (P < 0.01). Thus, A. mem injection could reduce RGC death in TON induced by ON transverse quantitative traction by stimulating the NGF signaling pathway.
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Subramanian ML, Vig V, Chung J, Fiorello MG, Xia W, Zetterberg H, Blennow K, Zetterberg M, Shareef F, Siegel NH, Ness S, Jun GR, Stein TD. Neurofilament light chain in the vitreous humor of the eye. Alzheimers Res Ther 2020; 12:111. [PMID: 32943089 PMCID: PMC7500015 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-020-00677-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a promising biomarker of neurodegeneration in the cerebrospinal fluid and blood. This study investigated the presence of NfL in the vitreous humor and its associations with amyloid beta, tau, inflammatory cytokines and vascular proteins, apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, systemic disease, and ophthalmic diseases. METHODS This is a single-site, prospective, cross-sectional cohort study. Undiluted vitreous fluid (0.5-1.0 mL) was aspirated during vitrectomy, and whole blood was drawn for APOE genotyping. NfL, amyloid beta (Aβ), total Tau (t-Tau), phosphorylated Tau (p-Tau181), inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and vascular proteins in the vitreous were quantitatively measured by immunoassay. The main outcome measures were the detection of NfL levels in the vitreous humor and its associations with the aforementioned proteins. Linear regression was used to test the associations of NfL with other proteins, APOE genotypes, MMSE scores, and ophthalmic and systemic diseases after adjustment for age, sex, education level, and other eye diseases. RESULTS NfL was detected in all 77 vitreous samples. NfL was not found to be associated with ophthalmic conditions, APOE genotypes, MMSE scores, or systemic disease (p > 0.05). NfL levels were positively associated with increased vitreous levels of Aβ40 (p = 7.7 × 10-5), Aβ42 (p = 2.8 × 10-4), and t-tau (p = 5.5 × 10-7), but not with p-tau181 (p = 0.53). NfL also had significant associations with inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-15 (IL-15, p = 5.3 × 10-4), IL-16 (p = 2.2 × 10-4), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP1, p = 4.1 × 10-4), and vascular proteins such as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1, p = 2.9 × 10-6), Vegf-C (p = 8.6 × 10-6), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1, p = 5.0 × 10-4), Tie-2 (p = 6.3 × 10-4), and intracellular adhesion molecular-1 (ICAM-1, p = 1.6 × 10-4). CONCLUSION NfL is detectable in the vitreous humor of the eye and significantly associated with amyloid beta, t-tau, and select inflammatory and vascular proteins in the vitreous. Additionally, NfL was not associated with patients' clinical eye condition. Our results serve as a foundation for further investigation of NfL in the ocular fluids to inform us about the potential utility of its presence in the eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manju L Subramanian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 85 E Concord St. #8813, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Viha Vig
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 85 E Concord St. #8813, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Jaeyoon Chung
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics Section), Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marissa G Fiorello
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 85 E Concord St. #8813, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Weiming Xia
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Bedford Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry at Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry at Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Madeleine Zetterberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience at Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Farah Shareef
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nicole H Siegel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 85 E Concord St. #8813, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Steven Ness
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 85 E Concord St. #8813, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Gyungah R Jun
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics Section), Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thor D Stein
- Boston University Alzheimer's Disease and CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
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Tian Z, Niu X, Yao W. Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Osteosarcoma Treatment: Which Is the Key Target? Front Oncol 2020; 10:1642. [PMID: 32984034 PMCID: PMC7485562 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent clinical trials have shown several multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) to be effective in the treatment of osteosarcoma. However, these TKIs have a number of targets, and it is yet unclear which of these targets has a key role in osteosarcoma treatment. In this review, we first summarize the TKIs that were studied in clinical trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Further, we compare and discuss the targets of these TKIs. We found that TKIs with promising therapeutic effect for osteosarcoma include apatinib, cabozantinib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, and sorafenib. The key targets for osteosarcoma treatment may include VEGFRs and RET. The receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) MET, IGF-1R, AXL, PDGFRs, KIT, and FGFRs might be relevant but unimportant targets for osteosarcoma treatment. Inhibition of one type of RTK for the treatment of osteosarcoma is not effective. It is necessary to inhibit several relevant RTKs simultaneously to achieve a breakthrough in osteosarcoma treatment. This review provides comprehensive information on TKI targets relevant in osteosarcoma treatment, and it will be useful for further research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Tian
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Niu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weitao Yao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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19
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Huang CP, Lin YW, Huang YC, Tsai FJ. Mitochondrial Dysfunction as a Novel Target for Neuroprotective Nutraceuticals in Ocular Diseases. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12071950. [PMID: 32629966 PMCID: PMC7400242 DOI: 10.3390/nu12071950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The eyes require a rich oxygen and nutrient supply; hence, the high-energy demand of the visual system makes it sensitive to oxidative stress. Excessive free radicals result in mitochondrial dysfunction and lead to retinal neurodegeneration, as an early stage of retinal metabolic disorders. Retinal cells are vulnerable because of their coordinated interaction and intricate neural networks. Nutraceuticals are believed to target multiple pathways and have shown neuroprotective benefits by scavenging free radicals and promoting mitochondrial gene expression. Furthermore, encouraging results demonstrate that nutraceuticals improve the organization of retinal cells and visual functions. This review discusses the mitochondrial impairments of retinal cells and the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of nutraceuticals. However, some unsolved problems still exist between laboratory study and clinical therapy. Poor bioavailability and bioaccessibility strongly limit their development. A new delivery system and improved formulation may offer promise for health care applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ping Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Chuen Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-C.H.); (F.-J.T.)
| | - Fuu-Jen Tsai
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan;
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Children’s Hospital of China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-C.H.); (F.-J.T.)
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20
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Wareham LK, Calkins DJ. The Neurovascular Unit in Glaucomatous Neurodegeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:452. [PMID: 32656207 PMCID: PMC7325980 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease of the visual system and leading cause of blindness worldwide. The disease is associated with sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP), which over a large range of magnitudes stresses retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons as they pass through the optic nerve head in forming the optic projection to the brain. Despite clinical efforts to lower IOP, which is the only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma, RGC degeneration and ensuing loss of vision often persist. A major contributor to failure of hypotensive regimens is the multifactorial nature of how IOP-dependent stress influences RGC physiology and structure. This stress is conveyed to the RGC axon through interactions with structural, glial, and vascular components in the nerve head and retina. These interactions promote pro-degenerative pathways involving biomechanical, metabolic, oxidative, inflammatory, immunological and vascular challenges to the microenvironment of the ganglion cell and its axon. Here, we focus on the contribution of vascular dysfunction and breakdown of neurovascular coupling in glaucoma. The vascular networks of the retina and optic nerve head have evolved complex mechanisms that help to maintain a continuous blood flow and supply of metabolites despite fluctuations in ocular perfusion pressure. In healthy tissue, autoregulation and neurovascular coupling enable blood flow to stay tightly controlled. In glaucoma patients evidence suggests these pathways are dysfunctional, thus highlighting a potential role for pathways involved in vascular dysfunction in progression and as targets for novel therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren K Wareham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - David J Calkins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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21
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Jiang J, Zhang X, Tang Y, Li S, Chen J. Progress on ocular siRNA gene-silencing therapy and drug delivery systems. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2020; 35:4-24. [PMID: 32298491 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma are global ocular diseases with high blindness rate. RNA interference (RNAi) is being increasingly used in the treatment of these disorders with siRNA drugs, bevasiranib, AGN211745 and PF-04523655 for AMD, and SYL040012 and QPI-1007 for glaucoma. Administration routes and vectors of gene drugs affect their therapeutic effect. Compared with the non-viral vectors, viral vectors have limited payload capacity and potential immunogenicity. This review summarizes the progress of the ocular siRNA gene-silencing therapy by focusing on siRNA drugs for AMD and glaucoma already used in clinical research, the main routes of drug delivery and the non-viral vectors for siRNA drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, No.1, DongQing Road, Guiyang, 550014, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No.639, Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinru Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, No.1, DongQing Road, Guiyang, 550014, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No.639, Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, No.1, DongQing Road, Guiyang, 550014, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No.639, Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No.639, Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No.639, Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
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22
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Hernández C, Porta M, Bandello F, Grauslund J, Harding SP, Aldington SJ, Egan C, Frydkjaer-Olsen U, García-Arumí J, Gibson J, Lang GE, Lattanzio R, Massin P, Midena E, Ponsati B, Ribeiro L, Scanlon P, Cunha-Vaz J, Simó R. The Usefulness of Serum Biomarkers in the Early Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy: Results of the EUROCONDOR Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041233. [PMID: 32344735 PMCID: PMC7231127 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041233] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of serum biomarkers to predict the worsening of retinal neurodysfunction in subjects with type 2 diabetes. For this purpose, we measured selected molecules (N-epsilon-carboxy methyl lysine (CML), laminin P1 (Lam-P1), and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)) in the serum of 341 participants of the EUROCONDOR study at baseline, 24, and 48 weeks. Retinal neurodysfunction was assessed by measuring implicit time (IT) using multifocal electroretinography, and structural changes were examined by spectral domain–optical coherence tomography. The values of IT at baseline were directly correlated with baseline serum concentrations of CML (r = 0.135, p = 0.013). Furthermore, in the placebo group, increase in CML concentration throughout follow-up correlated with the IT (r = 0.20; p = 0.03). Baseline serum levels of CML also correlated with macular retinal thickness (RT) (r = 0.231; p < 0.001). Baseline Lam-P1 levels correlated with the increase of the RT at the end of follow-up in the placebo group (r = 0.22; p = 0.016). We provide evidence that CML may be a biomarker of both retinal neurodysfunction and RT, whereas Lam-P1 was associated with RT only. Therefore, circulating levels of these molecules could provide a complementary tool for monitoring the early changes of diabetic retinopathy (DR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Hernández
- Diabetes and Metabolism Research Unit and CIBERDEM, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Massimo Porta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, University Vita-Salute, 20132 Milano, Italy; (F.B.); (R.L.)
| | - Jakob Grauslund
- Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark; (J.G.); (U.F.-O.)
| | - Simon P. Harding
- Department of Eye & Vision Science, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, and St. Pauls’ Eye Unit. Liverpool University Hospitals, members of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L69 7ZX, UK;
| | - Stephen J. Aldington
- Gloucestershire Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cheltenham GL53 7AG, UK; (S.J.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Catherine Egan
- Moorfields Eye Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, Institute of Ophthalmology/University College London, London EC1V 2PD, UK;
| | - Ulrik Frydkjaer-Olsen
- Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark; (J.G.); (U.F.-O.)
| | - José García-Arumí
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Jonathan Gibson
- Department of Vision Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK;
| | - Gabriele E. Lang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Rosangela Lattanzio
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, University Vita-Salute, 20132 Milano, Italy; (F.B.); (R.L.)
| | - Pascale Massin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lariboisière Hospital, 75004 Paris, France;
| | - Edoardo Midena
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
| | | | - Luísa Ribeiro
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.R.); (J.C.-V.)
| | - Peter Scanlon
- Gloucestershire Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cheltenham GL53 7AG, UK; (S.J.A.); (P.S.)
| | - José Cunha-Vaz
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (L.R.); (J.C.-V.)
| | - Rafael Simó
- Diabetes and Metabolism Research Unit and CIBERDEM, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
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23
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17β-Estradiol Delivered in Eye Drops: Evidence of Impact on Protein Networks and Associated Biological Processes in the Rat Retina through Quantitative Proteomics. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12020101. [PMID: 32012756 PMCID: PMC7076522 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12020101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To facilitate the development of broad-spectrum retina neuroprotectants that can be delivered through topical dosage forms, this proteomics study focused on analyzing target engagements through the identification of functional protein networks impacted after delivery of 17β-estradiol in eye drops. Specifically, the retinae of ovariectomized Brown Norway rats treated with daily eye drops of 17β-estradiol for three weeks were compared to those of vehicle-treated ovariectomized control animals. We searched the acquired raw data against a composite protein sequence database by using Mascot, as well as employed label-free quantification to detect changes in protein abundances. Our investigation using rigorous validation criteria revealed 331 estrogen-regulated proteins in the rat retina (158 were up-regulated, while 173 were down-regulated by 17β-estradiol delivered in eye drops). Comprehensive pathway analyses indicate that these proteins are relevant overall to nervous system development and function, tissue development, organ development, as well as visual system development and function. We also present 18 protein networks with associated canonical pathways showing the effects of treatments for the detailed analyses of target engagements regarding potential application of estrogens as topically delivered broad-spectrum retina neuroprotectants. Profound impact on crystallins is discussed as one of the plausible neuroprotective mechanisms.
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24
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Schlüter A, Aksan B, Fioravanti R, Valente S, Mai A, Mauceri D. Histone Deacetylases Contribute to Excitotoxicity-Triggered Degeneration of Retinal Ganglion Cells In Vivo. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:8018-8034. [PMID: 31161423 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-01658-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is known to modulate the nuclear accumulation, and thus activity state, of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in pyramidal neurons. In the retina, deregulation in activity and expression of different HDACs has been linked to pathological conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, retinal ischemia, glaucoma, and acute optic nerve injury. Up to now, however, the effects of in vivo excitotoxicity on the different HDACs in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we injected adult mice intravitreally with N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) as a mean to trigger excitotoxicity-mediated RGC degeneration and we detected time-dependent loss of RGCs at 1 and 7 days after the insult. Further, we characterized the subcellular localization of HDACs belonging to class I (HDAC1, HDAC3), IIa (HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC7, HDAC9), IIb (HDAC6, HDAC10), and IV (HDAC11) in RGCs. Our analyses revealed a differential pattern of HDACs nuclear distribution in RGCs following excitotoxicity. After 1 day, HDAC3, HDAC5, HDAC6, HDAC7, and HDAC11 showed altered subcellular localization in RGCs while 7 days after the excitotoxic insult, HDAC4 and HDAC9 were the only HDACs displaying changes in their subcellular distribution. Moreover, we found that in vivo selective inhibition of HDAC1/3 or HDAC4/5 via MS-275 (entinostat) or LMK-235, respectively, could prevent ongoing RGC degeneration. In conclusion, our results point towards a role of HDACs in RGC degeneration and identify HDAC1/3 and HDAC4/5 as potential therapeutic targets to treat degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Schlüter
- Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bahar Aksan
- Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rossella Fioravanti
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Valente
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Pasteur Institute, Cenci-Bolognetti Foundation, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Mauceri
- Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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25
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Thomas CN, Thompson AM, McCance E, Berry M, Logan A, Blanch RJ, Ahmed Z. Caspase-2 Mediates Site-Specific Retinal Ganglion Cell Death After Blunt Ocular Injury. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:4453-4462. [PMID: 30193318 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ocular trauma is common in civilian and military populations. Among other injuries, closed globe blunt ocular trauma causes acute disruption of photoreceptor outer segments (commotio retinae) and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death (traumatic optic neuropathy [TON]), both of which permanently impair vision. Caspase-2-dependent cell death is important and evidenced in models of RGC degeneration. We assessed the role of caspase-2 as a mediator of RGC and photoreceptor death in a rat blunt ocular trauma model. Methods Bilateral ballistic closed globe blunt ocular trauma was induced in female Lister-hooded rats and caspase-2 cleavage and localization assessed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Retinal caspase-2 was knocked down by intravitreal injection of caspase-2 small interfering RNA (siCASP2). In retinal sections, RGC survival was assessed by BRN3A-positive cell counts and photoreceptor survival by outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness, respectively. Retinal function was assessed by electroretinography (ERG). Results Raised levels of cleaved caspase-2 were detected in the retina at 5, 24, and 48 hours after injury and localized to RGC but not photoreceptors. Small interfering RNA-mediated caspase-2 knockdown neuroprotected RGC around but not in the center of the injury site. In addition, caspase-2 knockdown increased the amplitude of the ERG photopic negative response (PhNR) at 2 weeks after injury. However, siCASP2 was not protective for photoreceptors, suggesting that photoreceptor degeneration in this model is not mediated by caspase-2. Conclusions Caspase-2 mediates death in a proportion of RGC but not photoreceptors at the site of blunt ocular trauma. Thus, intravitreally delivered siCASP2 is a possible therapeutic for the effective treatment of RGC death to prevent TON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe N Thomas
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Adam M Thompson
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor McCance
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Berry
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Logan
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Blanch
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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26
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Nuzzi R, Scalabrin S, Becco A, Panzica G. Sex Hormones and Optic Nerve Disorders: A Review. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:57. [PMID: 30804741 PMCID: PMC6378504 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This review article presents a comprehensive overview of the literature on sex hormones (estrogens, androgens, progesterone) and optic nerve disorders, with a discussion of the implications for therapy and prevention. Methods: Epidemiological, pre-clinical and clinical studies were reviewed. Results: Analysis of the biological basis for a relationship between eye diseases and sex hormones showed that some types of hormones can exert a protective effect either directly on the retina and optic nerve or indirectly by modulating ocular blood flow. For example, it seems that estrogen exposure has a protective effect against glaucoma, whereas its deficit may lead to early onset of the disease. If further studies confirm the data in the literature, estrogen therapy, because of its antioxidant action, may be effective in the treatment of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, whereas, in the light of current studies, there does not seem to be an influence of estrogen on non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuritis (NAION). Conclusions: Although there is some evidence that in some optic nerve pathologies the sex hormones seem to play an important role there are still too few studies providing evidence for its wider use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Nuzzi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ophtalmic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Scalabrin
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ophtalmic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alice Becco
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ophtalmic Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi, Orbassano, Italy
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27
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Blood-to-Retina Transport of Imperatorin Involves the Carrier-Mediated Transporter System at the Inner Blood-Retinal Barrier. J Pharm Sci 2018; 108:1619-1626. [PMID: 30528198 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2018.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the mechanism of transporting imperatorin across the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB). The carotid artery single injection method was used to calculate the retinal uptake index (RUI) of [3H]imperatorin in vivo, whereas the retinal capillary endothelial cell lines were used for the in vitro uptake and mRNA expression assays. RUI value of [3H]imperatorin was greater than that of the reference compound ([14C]n-butanol). [3H]Imperatorin significantly reduced the RUI in the presence of neuroprotective organic cationic drugs at 10 mM. However, tetraethylammonium and p-aminohippuric acid showed no significant effects. [3H]Imperatorin uptake by TR-iBRB2 cells was time-, pH-, energy-, and concentration-dependent with a Km value of 679 ± 130 μM. In addition, the uptake study showed insensitivity to sodium and membrane potential. Various organic cations including pyrilamine, nicotine, and clonidine significantly reduced the uptake of [3H]imperatorin, whereas organic anions and monocarboxylic acids did not. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level dropped markedly with rOCTN1, rOCTN2, rPMAT, and rMATE1 small interfering RNAs in the transfection study. Moreover, [3H]imperatorin uptake remained neutral with small interfering RNA transfections. Our results indicate that imperatorin transport across the iBRB involves carrier-mediated transporter system.
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28
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Wang Z, Liu CH, Huang S, Chen J. Wnt Signaling in vascular eye diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 70:110-133. [PMID: 30513356 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in vascular morphogenesis in various organs including the eye. Wnt ligands and receptors are key regulators of ocular angiogenesis both during the eye development and in vascular eye diseases. Wnt signaling participates in regulating multiple vascular beds in the eye including regression of the hyaloid vessels, and development of structured layers of vasculature in the retina. Loss-of-function mutations in Wnt signaling components cause rare genetic eye diseases in humans such as Norrie disease, and familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) with defective ocular vasculature. On the other hand, experimental studies in more prevalent vascular eye diseases, such as wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and corneal neovascularization, suggest that aberrantly increased Wnt signaling is one of the causations for pathological ocular neovascularization, indicating the potential of modulating Wnt signaling to ameliorate pathological angiogenesis in eye diseases. This review recapitulates the key roles of the Wnt signaling pathway during ocular vascular development and in vascular eye diseases, and pharmaceutical approaches targeting the Wnt signaling as potential treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxiao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Chi-Hsiu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Shuo Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, United States.
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29
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The Association between Female Reproductive Factors and Open-Angle Glaucoma in Korean Women: The Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey V. J Ophthalmol 2018; 2018:2750786. [PMID: 30026984 PMCID: PMC6031087 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2750786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated associations between female reproductive factors and open-angle glaucoma (OAG) in Korean females using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Methods A nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted. We enrolled 23,376 participants from the KNHANES who had undergone ophthalmologic exams from 2010 through 2012. Associations between undiagnosed OAG and female reproductive factors such as age at menarche and menopause, parity, history of lactation, and administration of oral contraceptives (OC) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) were determined using stepwise logistic regression analyses. Results Of the enrolled participants, 6,860 participants (397 with OAG and 6,463 without OAG) met our study criteria and were included in the analyses. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis after adjusting for all potential confounding factors, only early menopause (younger than 45 years) was significantly associated with OAG in participants with natural menopause (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.17–4.46). Age at menarche, parity, history of lactation, and administration of OC or HRT were not significantly associated with OAG. Conclusions Only early menopause was associated with an increased risk of OAG in our study, in contrast to previous Western studies reporting both early menopause and late menarche as associated factors.
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30
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Impact of aromatase absence on murine intraocular pressure and retinal ganglion cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3280. [PMID: 29459742 PMCID: PMC5818491 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21475-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We hypothesize that aromatase, an enzyme that regulates estrogen production, plays a significant role in the control of intraocular pressure (IOP) and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). To begin to test our hypothesis, we examined the impact of aromatase absence, which completely eliminates estrogen synthesis, in male and female mice. Studies were performed with adult, age-matched wild type (WT) and aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice. IOP was measured in a masked fashion in both eyes of conscious mice at 12 and 24 weeks of age. Retinas were obtained and processed for RGC counting with a confocal microscope. IOP levels in both 12- and 24-week old female ArKO mice were significantly higher than those of age- and sex-matched WT controls. The mean increase in IOP was 7.9% in the 12-week-, and 19.7% in the 24-week-old mice, respectively. These changes were accompanied by significant 9% and 7% decreases in RGC numbers in the ArKO female mice, relative to controls, at 12- and 24-weeks, respectively. In contrast, aromatase deficiency did not lead to an increased IOP in male mice. There was a significant reduction in RGC counts in the 12-, but not 24-, week-old male ArKO mice, as compared to their age- and sex-matched WT controls. Overall, our findings show that aromatase inhibition in females is associated with elevated IOP and reduced RGC counts.
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31
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Falero-Perez J, Song YS, Sorenson CM, Sheibani N. CYP1B1: A key regulator of redox homeostasis. TRENDS IN CELL & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 13:27-45. [PMID: 30894785 PMCID: PMC6422340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
CYP1B1 is a member of the CYP1 subfamily of CYP superfamily of enzymes, which contains three members, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1. CYP1B1 is expressed in both adult and fetal human extrahepatic tissues, including the parenchymal and stromal cells of most organs. Mutations in the CYP1B1 gene are linked to the development of primary congenital glaucoma in humans. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Using Cyp1b1-deficient mice, we showed that CYP1B1 is constitutively expressed in retinal vascular cells with a significant role in retinal neovascularization during oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy. We also showed CYP1B1 is constitutively expressed in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and its expression plays a significant role in the normal development and function of the TM tissue. We have observed that germline deletion of Cyp1b1 is associated with increased oxidative stress in the retinal vascular and TM cells in culture, and retinal and TM tissue in vivo. We showed increased oxidative stress was responsible for altered production of the extracellular matrix proteins and had a significant impact on cellular integrity and function of these tissues. Collectively, our studies have established an important role for CYP1B1 expression in modulation of tissue integrity and function through the regulation of cellular redox homeostasis and extracellular microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Falero-Perez
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
| | - Yong-Seok Song
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
| | - Christine M. Sorenson
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
| | - Nader Sheibani
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
- Departments of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI USA
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32
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Nuzzi R, Scalabrin S, Becco A, Panzica G. Gonadal Hormones and Retinal Disorders: A Review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:66. [PMID: 29551993 PMCID: PMC5840201 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Gonadal hormones are essential for reproductive function, but can act on neural and other organ systems, and are probably the cause of the large majority of known sex differences in function and disease. The aim of this review is to provide evidence for this hypothesis in relation to eye disorders and to retinopathies in particular. METHODS Epidemiological studies and research articles were reviewed. RESULTS Analysis of the biological basis for a relationship between eye diseases and hormones showed that estrogen, androgen, and progesterone receptors are present throughout the eye and that these steroids are locally produced in ocular tissues. Sex hormones can have a neuroprotective action on the retina and modulate ocular blood flow. There are differences between the male and the female retina; moreover, sex hormones can influence the development (or not) of certain disorders. For example, exposure to endogenous estrogens, depending on age at menarche and menopause and number of pregnancies, and exposure to exogenous estrogens, as in hormone replacement therapy and use of oral contraceptives, appear to protect against age-related macular degeneration (both drusenoid and neurovascular types), whereas exogenous testosterone therapy is a risk factor for central serous chorioretinopathy. Macular hole is more common among women than men, particularly in postmenopausal women probably owing to the sudden drop in estrogen production in later middle age. Progestin therapy appears to ameliorate the course of retinitis pigmentosa. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, may be more common among men than women. CONCLUSION We observed a correlation between many retinopathies and sex, probably as a result of the protective effect some gonadal hormones may exert against the development of certain disorders. This may have ramifications for the use of hormone therapy in the treatment of eye disease and of retinal disorders in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Nuzzi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- *Correspondence: Raffaele Nuzzi,
| | - Simona Scalabrin
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alice Becco
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi-Montalcini, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, Italy
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Retinal metabolism: A comparative look at energetics in the retina. Brain Res 2017; 1672:50-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Wang K, Zhu X, Zhang K, Zhou F, Zhu L. Neuroprotective effect of tetramethylpyrazine against all-trans-retinal toxicity in the differentiated Y-79 cells via upregulation of IRBP expression. Exp Cell Res 2017; 359:120-128. [PMID: 28780307 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that abnormal accumulation of all-trans-retinal (atRAL) is a leading cause of photoreceptor degeneration in retinal degenerative diseases. Deficiency of interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP), a retinoid transporter in the visual cycle, is responsible for the impaired clearance of atRAL and results in atRAL toxicity in retina. Therefore, IRBP has been proposed to be a potent target in preventing atRAL-induced photoreceptor degeneration. In this study, the neuroprotective effect of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) against atRAL toxicity in the differentiated Y-79 cells, a in vitro model of photoreceptor, was first investigated. Our findings showed that atRAL could induce cytotoxicity, oxidative/nitrosative stresses, apoptosis and leukostasis in the differentiated Y-79 cells; however, the pre-treatment of TMP significantly attenuated such effects in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, our results indicated that TMP exerted its neuroprotective effect mainly through upregulating IRBP expression. The present study significantly contributes to better understanding the important role of IRBP in retinal degenerative diseases and forms the basis of the therapeutic development of TMP in such diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Xue Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Ministry of Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fanfan Zhou
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
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Chintalapudi SR, Patel NN, Goldsmith ZK, Djenderedjian L, Wang XD, Marion TN, Jablonski MM, Morales-Tirado VM. Isolation of Primary Murine Retinal Ganglion Cells (RGCs) by Flow Cytometry. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28715391 DOI: 10.3791/55785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases often have a devastating impact on those affected. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss is implicated in an array of diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, in addition to normal aging. Despite their importance, RGCs have been extremely difficult to study until now due in part to the fact that they comprise only a small percentage of the wide variety of cells in the retina. In addition, current isolation methods use intracellular markers to identify RGCs, which produce non-viable cells. These techniques also involve lengthy isolation protocols, so there is a lack of practical, standardized, and dependable methods to obtain and isolate RGCs. This work describes an efficient, comprehensive, and reliable method to isolate primary RGCs from mice retinae using a protocol based on both positive and negative selection criteria. The presented methods allow for the future study of RGCs, with the goal of better understanding the major decline in visual acuity that results from the loss of functional RGCs in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumana R Chintalapudi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Need N Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Zachary K Goldsmith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Levon Djenderedjian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Xiang Di Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Tony N Marion
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Monica M Jablonski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | - Vanessa M Morales-Tirado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center;
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36
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The Race of 10 Synthetic RNAi-Based Drugs to the Pharmaceutical Market. Pharm Res 2017; 34:1339-1363. [PMID: 28389707 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-017-2134-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Ten years after Fire and Melo's Nobel Prize for discovery of gene silencing by double-stranded RNA, a remarkable progress was achieved in RNA interference (RNAi). Changes in the chemical structure of synthetic oligonucleotides make them more stable and specific, and new delivery strategies became progressively available. The attention of pharmaceutical industry rapidly turned to RNAi, as an opportunity to explore new drug targets. This review addresses nine small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and one unique microRNA (miRNA) inhibitor, which entered the phase 2-3 clinical trials. The siRNAs in focus are PF-04523655, TKM-080301, Atu027, SYL040012, SYL1001, siG12D-LODER (phase 2), QPI-1002, QPI-1007, and patisiran (phase 3). Regarding miRNAs, their content can be down- or up-regulated, by using miRNA inhibitors (AntimiRs) or miRNA mimics. Miravirsen is an AntimiR-122 for hepatitis C virus infection. The flexibility of RNAi technology is easily understood taking into account: (i) the different drug targets (i.e. p53, caspase 2, PKN3, β2-adrenergic receptor, mutated KRAS, microRNAs); (ii) therapeutic conditions, including ophthalmic diseases, kidney injury, amyloidosis, pancreatic cancer, viral hepatitis; and (iii) routes of administration (ocular, intravenous, subcutaneous, intratumoral). Although some issues are still matters of concern (delivery, toxicity, cost, and biological barriers), RNAi definitively opens a wide avenue for drug development.
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Tian Y, Zonca MR, Imbrogno J, Unser AM, Sfakis L, Temple S, Belfort G, Xie Y. Polarized, Cobblestone, Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Maturation on a Synthetic PEG Matrix. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2017; 3:890-902. [PMID: 33429561 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell attachment is essential for the growth and polarization of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Currently, surface coatings derived from biological proteins are used as the gold standard for cell culture. However, downstream processing and purification of these biological products can be cumbersome and expensive. In this study, we constructed a library of chemically modified nanofibers to mimic the Bruch's membrane of the retinal pigment epithelium. Using atmospheric-pressure plasma-induced graft polymerization with a high-throughput screening platform to modify the nanofibers, we identified three polyethylene glycol (PEG)-grafted nanofiber surfaces (PEG methyl ether methacrylate, n = 4, 8, and 45) from a library of 62 different surfaces as favorable for RPE cell attachment, proliferation, and maturation in vitro with cobblestone morphology. Compared with the biologically derived culture matrices such as vitronectin-based peptide Synthemax, our newly discovered synthetic PEG surfaces exhibit similar growth and polarization of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. However, they are chemically defined, are easy to synthesize on a large scale, are cost-effective, are stable with long-term storage capability, and provide a more physiologically accurate environment for RPE cell culture. To our knowledge, no one has reported that PEG derivatives directly support attachment and growth of RPE cells with cobblestone morphology. This study offers a unique PEG-modified 3D cell culture system that supports RPE proliferation, differentiation, and maturation with cobblestone morphology, providing a new avenue for RPE cell culture, disease modeling, and cell replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzi Tian
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, New York 12203, United States
| | - Michael R Zonca
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, New York 12203, United States
| | - Joseph Imbrogno
- Howard P. Isermann Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Andrea M Unser
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, New York 12203, United States
| | - Lauren Sfakis
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, New York 12203, United States
| | - Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, One Discovery Drive, Rensselaer, New York 12144, United States
| | - Georges Belfort
- Howard P. Isermann Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Yubing Xie
- Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, New York 12203, United States
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Mottaghitalab F, Rastegari A, Farokhi M, Dinarvand R, Hosseinkhani H, Ou KL, Pack DW, Mao C, Dinarvand M, Fatahi Y, Atyabi F. Prospects of siRNA applications in regenerative medicine. Int J Pharm 2017; 524:312-329. [PMID: 28385649 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.03.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has established its reputation in the field of tissue engineering owing to its ability to silence the proteins that inhibit tissue regeneration. siRNA is capable of regulating cellular behavior during tissue regeneration processes. The concept of using siRNA technology in regenerative medicine derived from its ability to inhibit the expression of target genes involved in defective tissues and the possibility to induce the expression of tissue-inductive factors that improve the tissue regeneration process. To date, siRNA has been used as a suppressive biomolecule in different tissues, such as nervous tissue, bone, cartilage, heart, kidney, and liver. Moreover, various delivery systems have been applied in order to deliver siRNA to the target tissues. This review will provide an in-depth discussion on the development of siRNA and their delivery systems and mechanisms of action in different tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mottaghitalab
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rastegari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Farokhi
- National Cell Bank of Iran, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rassoul Dinarvand
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinkhani
- Innovation Center for Advanced Technology, Matrix, Inc., New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Keng-Liang Ou
- Research Center for Biomedical Devices and Prototyping Production, Research Center for Biomedical Implants and Microsurgery Devices, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Daniel W Pack
- Department of Chemical & Materials Engineering and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Chuanbin Mao
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Stephenson Life Science Research Center, University of Oklahoma, 101 Stephenson Parkway, Norman, OK 73019, United States; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China
| | - Meshkat Dinarvand
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Fatahi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Neuroprotective Effect of Puerarin on Glutamate-Induced Cytotoxicity in Differentiated Y-79 Cells via Inhibition of ROS Generation and Ca(2+) Influx. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17071109. [PMID: 27409614 PMCID: PMC4964484 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17071109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate toxicity is estimated to be the key cause of photoreceptor degeneration in the pathogenesis of retinal degenerative diseases. Oxidative stress and Ca(2+) influx induced by glutamate are responsible for the apoptosis process of photoreceptor degeneration. Puerarin, a primary component of Kudzu root, has been widely used in the clinical treatment of retinal degenerative diseases in China for decades; however, the detailed molecular mechanism underlying this effect remains unclear. In this study, the neuroprotective effect of puerarin against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in the differentiated Y-79 cells was first investigated through cytotoxicity assay. Then the molecular mechanism of this effect regarding anti-oxidative stress and Ca(2+) hemostasis was further explored with indirect immunofluorescence, flow cytometric analysis and western blot analysis. Our study showed that glutamate induced cell viability loss, excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, calcium overload and up-regulated cell apoptosis in differentiated Y-79 cells, which effect was significantly attenuated with the pre-treatment of puerarin in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, our data indicated that the neuroprotective effect of puerarin was potentially mediated through the inhibition of glutamate-induced activation of mitochondrial-dependent signaling pathway and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)-dependent apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1(ASK-1)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 signaling pathway. The present study supports the notion that puerarin may be a promising neuroprotective agent in the prevention of retinal degenerative diseases.
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Abstract
This article's objective is to provide an overview of the association between estrogen and glaucoma. A literature synthesis was conducted of articles published in peer-reviewed journals screened through May 5, 2015, using the PubMed database. Keywords used were "estrogen and glaucoma," "reproductive factors and glaucoma," and "estrogen, nitric oxide and eye." Forty-three journal articles were included. Results indicated that markers for lifetime estrogen exposure have been measured by several studies and show that the age of menarche onset, oral contraceptive (OC) use, bilateral oophorectomy, age of menopause onset and duration between menarche to menopause are associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) risk. The Blue Mountain Eye Study found a significantly increased POAG risk with later (>13 years) compared with earlier (≤12 years) age of menarche. Nurses' Health Study (NHS) investigators found that OC use of greater than 5 years was associated with a 25% increased risk of POAG. The Mayo Clinic Cohort Study of Oophorectomy and Aging found that women who underwent bilateral oophorectomy before age 43 years had an increased risk of glaucoma. The Rotterdam Study found that women who went through menopause before reaching the age of 45 years had a higher risk of open-angle glaucoma (2.6-fold increased risk), while the NHS showed a reduced risk of POAG among women older than 65 who entered menopause after age ≥ 54 years. Increased estrogen states may confer a reduced risk of glaucoma or glaucoma-related traits such as reduced intraocular pressure (IOP). Pregnancy, a hyperestrogenemic state, is associated with decreased IOP during the third trimester. Though the role of postmenopausal hormone (PMH) use in the reduction of IOP is not fully conclusive, PMH use may reduce the risk of POAG. From a genetic epidemiologic perspective, estrogen metabolic pathway single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with POAG in women and polymorphisms in endothelial nitric oxide synthase, a gene receptive to estrogen regulation, are associated with glaucoma. The study concluded that increasing evidence suggests that lifetime exposure to estrogen may alter the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Estrogen exposure may have a neuroprotective effect on the progression of POAG but further studies need to confirm this finding. The role of sex-specific preventive and therapeutic treatment may be on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Dewundara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA 02114
| | - Janey Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA 02114
| | - David A. Sullivan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA 02114
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA USA 02114
| | - Louis R. Pasquale
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA 02114
- Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA 02115
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Jones IL, Russell TL, Farrow K, Fiscella M, Franke F, Müller J, Jäckel D, Hierlemann A. A method for electrophysiological characterization of hamster retinal ganglion cells using a high-density CMOS microelectrode array. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:360. [PMID: 26528115 PMCID: PMC4602149 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of neuronal cell types in the mammalian retina is important for the understanding of human retinal disease and the advancement of sight-restoring technology, such as retinal prosthetic devices. A somewhat less utilized animal model for retinal research is the hamster, which has a visual system that is characterized by an area centralis and a wide visual field with a broad binocular component. The hamster retina is optimally suited for recording on the microelectrode array (MEA), because it intrinsically lies flat on the MEA surface and yields robust, large-amplitude signals. However, information in the literature about hamster retinal ganglion cell functional types is scarce. The goal of our work is to develop a method featuring a high-density (HD) complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) MEA technology along with a sequence of standardized visual stimuli in order to categorize ganglion cells in isolated Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) retina. Since the HD-MEA is capable of recording at a higher spatial resolution than most MEA systems (17.5 μm electrode pitch), we were able to record from a large proportion of RGCs within a selected region. Secondly, we chose our stimuli so that they could be run during the experiment without intervention or computation steps. The visual stimulus set was designed to activate the receptive fields of most ganglion cells in parallel and to incorporate various visual features to which different cell types respond uniquely. Based on the ganglion cell responses, basic cell properties were determined: direction selectivity, speed tuning, width tuning, transience, and latency. These properties were clustered to identify ganglion cell types in the hamster retina. Ultimately, we recorded up to a cell density of 2780 cells/mm2 at 2 mm (42°) from the optic nerve head. Using five parameters extracted from the responses to visual stimuli, we obtained seven ganglion cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian L Jones
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas L Russell
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karl Farrow
- Visual Circuits Laboratory, Neuroelectronics Research Flanders Leuven, Belgium ; NERF, Imec Leuven, Belgium ; Department of Biology, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michele Fiscella
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felix Franke
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Müller
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Jäckel
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Bio Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich Basel, Switzerland
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Some Operational Characteristics of Glycine Release in Rat Retina: The Role of Reverse Mode Operation of Glycine Transporter Type-1 (GlyT-1) in Ischemic Conditions. Neurochem Res 2015; 41:73-85. [PMID: 26364050 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1713-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Rat posterior eyecups containing the retina were prepared, loaded with [(3)H]glycine and superfused in order to determine its release originated from glycinergic amacrine cells and/or glial cells. Deprivation of oxygen and glucose from the Krebs-bicarbonate buffer used for superfusion evoked a marked increase of [(3)H]glycine release, an effect that was found to be external Ca(2+)-independent. Whereas oxygen and glucose deprivation increased [(3)H]glycine release, its uptake was reduced suggesting that energy deficiency shifts glycine transporter type-1 operation from normal to reverse mode. The increased release of [(3)H]glycine evoked by oxygen and glucose deprivation was suspended by addition of the non-competitive glycine transporter type-1 inhibitor NFPS and the competitive inhibitor ACPPB further suggesting the involvement of this transporter in the mediation of [(3)H]glycine release. Oxygen and glucose deprivation also evoked [(3)H]glutamate release from rat retina and the concomitantly occurring release of the NMDA receptor agonist glutamate and the coagonist glycine makes NMDA receptor pathological overstimulation possible in hypoxic conditions. [(3)H]Glutamate release was suspended by addition of the excitatory amino acid transporter inhibitor TBOA. Sarcosine, a substrate inhibitor of glycine transporter type-1, also increased [(3)H]glycine release probably by heteroexchange shifting transporter operation into reverse mode. This effect of sarcosine was also external Ca(2+)-independent and could be suspended by NFPS. Energy deficiency in retina induced by ouabain, an inhibitor of the Na(+)-K(+)-dependent ATPase, and by rotenone, a mitochondrial complex I inhibitor added with the glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxy-D-glucose, led to increase of retinal [(3)H]glycine efflux. These effects of ouabain and rotenone/2-deoxy-D-glucose could also be blocked by NFPS pointed to the preferential reverse mode operation of glycine transporter type-1 as a consequence of impaired cellular energy homeostasis. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that glycine transporter type-1, of which reverse mode operation assures [(3)H]glycine release, is expressed in amacrine cells in the inner nuclear and plexiform layers of the retina and also in Müller macroglia cells. We conclude that disruption of the balanced normal/reverse mode operation of glycine transporter type-1 is likely a significant factor contributing to neurotoxic processes of the retina. The possibility to inhibit glycine transporter type-1 mediated glycine efflux by drugs more potently than glycine uptake might offer some therapeutic potential for the treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders of the retina.
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Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Ganglion Cells: Applications for the Study and Treatment of Optic Neuropathies. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2015; 3:200-206. [PMID: 26618076 DOI: 10.1007/s40135-015-0081-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Mohamed IN, Ishrat T, Fagan SC, El-Remessy AB. Role of inflammasome activation in the pathophysiology of vascular diseases of the neurovascular unit. Antioxid Redox Signal 2015; 22:1188-206. [PMID: 25275222 PMCID: PMC4403234 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2014.6126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Inflammation is the standard double-edged defense mechanism that aims at protecting the human physiological homeostasis from devastating threats. Both acute and chronic inflammation have been implicated in the occurrence and progression of vascular diseases. Interference with components of the immune system to improve patient outcome after ischemic injury has been uniformly unsuccessful. There is a need for a deeper understanding of the innate immune response to injury in order to modulate, rather than to block inflammation and improve the outcome for vascular diseases. RECENT ADVANCES Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors or NOD-like receptor proteins (NLRPs) can be activated by sterile and microbial inflammation. NLR family plays a major role in activating the inflammasome. CRITICAL ISSUES The aim of this work is to review recent findings that provided insights into key inflammatory mechanisms and define the place of the inflammasome, a multi-protein complex involved in instigating inflammation in neurovascular diseases, including retinopathy, neurodegenerative diseases, and stroke. FUTURE DIRECTIONS The significant contribution of NLRP-inflammasome activation to vascular disease of the neurovascular unit in the brain and retina suggests that therapeutic strategies focused on specific targeting of inflammasome components could significantly improve the outcomes of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam N Mohamed
- 1 Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia , Augusta, Georgia
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45
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El-Azab MF, Baldowski BRB, Mysona BA, Shanab AY, Mohamed IN, Abdelsaid MA, Matragoon S, Bollinger KE, Saul A, El-Remessy AB. Deletion of thioredoxin-interacting protein preserves retinal neuronal function by preventing inflammation and vascular injury. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1299-313. [PMID: 24283717 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Retinal neurodegeneration is an early and critical event in several diseases associated with blindness. Clinically, therapies that target neurodegeneration fail. We aimed to elucidate the multiple roles by which thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) contributes to initial and sustained retinal neurodegeneration. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Neurotoxicity was induced by intravitreal injection of NMDA into wild-type (WT) and TXNIP-knockout (TKO) mice. The expression of apoptotic and inflammatory markers was assessed by immunohistochemistry, elisa and Western blot. Microvascular degeneration was assessed by periodic acid-Schiff and haematoxylin staining and retinal function by electroretinogram. KEY RESULTS NMDA induced early (1 day) and significant retinal PARP activation, a threefold increase in TUNEL-positive nuclei and 40% neuronal loss in ganglion cell layer (GCL); and vascular permeability in WT but not TKO mice. NMDA induced glial activation, expression of TNF-α and IL-1β that co-localized with Müller cells in WT but not TKO mice. In parallel, NMDA triggered the expression of NOD-like receptor protein (NLRP3), activation of caspase-1, and release of IL-1β and TNF-α in primary WT but not TKO Müller cultures. After 14 days, NMDA induced 1.9-fold microvascular degeneration, 60% neuronal loss in GCL and increased TUNEL-labelled cells in the GCL and inner nuclear layer in WT but not TKO mice. Electroretinogram analysis showed more significant reductions in b-wave amplitudes in WT than in TKO mice. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Targeting TXNIP expression prevented early retinal ganglion cell death, glial activation, retinal inflammation and secondary neuro/microvascular degeneration and preserved retinal function. TXNIP is a promising new therapeutic target for retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F El-Azab
- Center for Pharmacy and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA; Charlie Norwood Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
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Szabadfi K, Kiss P, Reglodi D, Fekete EM, Tamas A, Danyadi B, Atlasz T, Gabriel R. Urocortin 2 treatment is protective in excitotoxic retinal degeneration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 101:67-76. [PMID: 24311224 DOI: 10.1556/aphysiol.100.2013.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Urocortin 2 (Ucn 2) is a corticotrop releasing factor paralog peptide with many physiological functions and it has widespread distribution. There are some data on the cytoprotective effects of Ucn 2, but less is known about its neuro- and retinoprotective actions. We have previously shown that Ucn 2 is protective in ischemia-induced retinal degeneration. The aim of the present study was to examine the protective potential of Ucn 2 in monosodium-glutamate (MSG)-induced retinal degeneration by routine histology and to investigate cell-type specific effects by immunohistochemistry. Rat pups received MSG applied on postnatal days 1, 5 and 9 and Ucn 2 was injected intravitreally into one eye. Retinas were processed for histology and immunocytochemistry after 3 weeks. Immunolabeling was determined for glial fibrillary acidic protein, vesicular glutamate transporter 1, protein kinase Cα, calbindin, parvalbumin and calretinin. Retinal tissue from animals treated with MSG showed severe degeneration compared to normal retinas, but intravitreal Ucn 2 treatment resulted in a retained retinal structure both at histological and neurochemical levels: distinct inner retinal layers and rescued inner retinal cells (different types of amacrine and rod bipolar cells) could be observed. These findings support the neuroprotective function of Ucn 2 in MSG-induced retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Szabadfi
- University of Pécs Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences Ifjúság útja 6 H-7624 Pécs Hungary
| | - P Kiss
- PTE-MTA "Lendület" PACAP Research Team Department of Anatomy Pécs Hungary
| | - D Reglodi
- PTE-MTA "Lendület" PACAP Research Team Department of Anatomy Pécs Hungary
| | - E M Fekete
- The Scripps Research Institute La Jolla CA USA University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Psychiatry Madison WI USA
| | - A Tamas
- PTE-MTA "Lendület" PACAP Research Team Department of Anatomy Pécs Hungary
| | - B Danyadi
- PTE-MTA "Lendület" PACAP Research Team Department of Anatomy Pécs Hungary
| | - T Atlasz
- University of Pécs Department of Sportbiology Pécs Hungary
| | - R Gabriel
- University of Pécs Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences Ifjúság útja 6 H-7624 Pécs Hungary
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Morphometric analysis of connective tissue sheaths of sural nerve in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:870930. [PMID: 25147820 PMCID: PMC4132315 DOI: 10.1155/2014/870930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Revised: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
One of the most common complications of diabetes mellitus is diabetic neuropathy. It may be provoked by metabolic and/or vascular factors, and depending on duration of disease, various layers of nerve may be affected. Our aim was to investigate influence of diabetes on the epineurial, perineurial, and endoneurial connective tissue sheaths. The study included 15 samples of sural nerve divided into three groups: diabetic group, peripheral vascular disease group, and control group. After morphological analysis, morphometric parameters were determined for each case using ImageJ software. Compared to the control group, the diabetic cases had significantly higher perineurial index (P < 0.05) and endoneurial connective tissue percentage (P < 0.01). The diabetic group showed significantly higher epineurial area (P < 0.01), as well as percentage of endoneurial connective tissue (P < 0.01), in relation to the peripheral vascular disease group. It is obvious that hyperglycemia and ischemia present in diabetes lead to substantial changes in connective tissue sheaths of nerve, particularly in peri- and endoneurium. Perineurial thickening and significant endoneurial fibrosis may impair the balance of endoneurial homeostasis and regenerative ability of the nerve fibers. Future investigations should focus on studying the components of extracellular matrix of connective tissue sheaths in diabetic nerves.
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Huang L, Balsara RD, Castellino FJ. Synthetic conantokin peptides potently inhibit N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated currents of retinal ganglion cells. J Neurosci Res 2014; 92:1767-74. [PMID: 25043917 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which are the sole output neurons of the retina, express N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), rendering these cells susceptible to glutamate excitotoxicity, with implications for loss of normal RGC excitatory responses in disorders such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, antagonists that inhibit NMDAR-mediated currents specifically by targeting the GluN2B component of the ion channel have the potential to serve as a basis for developing potential therapeutics. The roles of peptidic conantokins, which are potent brain neuronal NMDAR inhibitors, were studied. By using patch-clamp whole-cell analyses in dissociated RGCs and retinal whole-mount RGCs, we evaluated the effects of synthetic conantokin-G (conG) and conantokin-T (conT), which are small γ-carboxyglutamate-containing peptides, on NMDA-mediated excitatory responses in mouse RGCs. Both conG and conT inhibited the NMDA-mediated currents of dark-adapted dissociated and whole-mount RGCs in a dose-dependent, reversible, noncompetitive manner. Inhibition of NMDA-mediated steady-state currents by NMDAR nonsubunit-selective conT was approximately threefold greater than GluN2B-selective conG or ifenprodil, demonstrating its potential ability to inhibit both GluN2A- and GluN2B-containing ion channels in RGCs. Because the extent of inhibition of NMDA-evoked currents by conG and the pharmacologic GluN2B-selective inhibitor ifenprodil were similar (40-45%) to that of the GluN2A-selective antagonist NVP-AAM0077, we conclude that the levels of GluN2A and GluN2B subunits are similar in RGCs. These results provide a novel basis for developing effective neuroprotective agents to aid in the prevention of undesired glutamatergic excitotoxicity in neurodegenerative diseases of the retina and demonstrate functional assembly of NMDARs in RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoxiu Huang
- W.M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana
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Abu El-Asrar AM, Al-Mezaine HS, Ola MS. Pathophysiology and management of diabetic retinopathy. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eop.09.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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50
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Prokai-Tatrai K, Xin H, Nguyen V, Szarka S, Blazics B, Prokai L, Koulen P. 17β-estradiol eye drops protect the retinal ganglion cell layer and preserve visual function in an in vivo model of glaucoma. Mol Pharm 2013; 10:3253-61. [PMID: 23841874 DOI: 10.1021/mp400313u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Neuroprotection in glaucoma as a curative strategy complementary to current therapies to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) is highly desirable. This study was designed to investigate neuroprotection by 17β-estradiol (E2) to prevent retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in a glaucoma model of surgically elevated IOP in rats. We found that daily treatment with E2-containing eye drops resulted in significant E2 concentration in the retina with concomitant profound neuroprotective therapeutic benefits, even in the presence of continually elevated IOP. The number of apoptotic cells in the RGC layer was significantly decreased in the E2-treated group, when compared to the vehicle-treated controls. Deterioration in visual acuity in these animals was also markedly prevented. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, beneficial changes in the expression of several proteins implicated in the maintenance of retinal health were also found in the retina of E2-treated animals. On the other hand, systemic side effects could not be avoided with the eye drops, as confirmed by the measured high circulating estrogen levels and through the assessment of the uterus representing a typical hormone-sensitive peripheral organ. Collectively, the demonstrated significant neuroprotective effect of topical E2 in the selected animal model of glaucoma provides a clear rationale for further studies aiming at targeting E2 into the eye while avoiding systemic E2 exposure to diminish undesirable off-target side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Prokai-Tatrai
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, University of North Texas Health Science Center , 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, United States
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