1
|
Sokol L, Cuypers A, Truong ACK, Bouché A, Brepoels K, Souffreau J, Rohlenova K, Vinckier S, Schoonjans L, Eelen G, Dewerchin M, de Rooij LPMH, Carmeliet P. Prioritization and functional validation of target genes from single-cell transcriptomics studies. Commun Biol 2023; 6:648. [PMID: 37330599 PMCID: PMC10276815 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Translation of academic results into clinical practice is a formidable unmet medical need. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies generate long descriptive ranks of markers with predicted biological function, but without functional validation, it remains challenging to know which markers truly exert the putative function. Given the lengthy/costly nature of validation studies, gene prioritization is required to select candidates. We address these issues by studying tip endothelial cell (EC) marker genes because of their importance for angiogenesis. Here, by tailoring Guidelines On Target Assessment for Innovative Therapeutics, we in silico prioritize previously unreported/poorly described, high-ranking tip EC markers. Notably, functional validation reveals that four of six candidates behave as tip EC genes. We even discover a tip EC function for a gene lacking in-depth functional annotation. Thus, validating prioritized genes from scRNA-seq studies offers opportunities for identifying targets to be considered for possible translation, but not all top-ranked scRNA-seq markers exert the predicted function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Sokol
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anne Cuypers
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anh-Co K Truong
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ann Bouché
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katleen Brepoels
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Souffreau
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katerina Rohlenova
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Vestec, Prague-West, Czech Republic
| | - Stefan Vinckier
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Schoonjans
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Heterogeneity, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Guy Eelen
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Dewerchin
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura P M H de Rooij
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Heterogeneity, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahmad A, Nawaz MI. Molecular mechanism of VEGF and its role in pathological angiogenesis. J Cell Biochem 2022; 123:1938-1965. [PMID: 36288574 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Over the last seven decades, a significant scientific contribution took place in the delineation of the implications of vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF) in the processes of angiogenesis. Under pathological conditions, mainly in response to hypoxia or ischemia, elevated VEGF levels promote vascular damage and the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Indeed, the development of VEGF biology has revolutionized our understanding of its role in pathological conditions. Hence, targeting VEGF or VEGF-mediated molecular pathways could be an excellent therapeutic strategy for managing cancers and intraocular neovascular disorders. Although anti-VEGF therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have limited clinical efficacy, they can still significantly improve the overall survival rate. This thus demands further investigation through the development of alternative strategies in the management of VEGF-mediated pathological angiogenesis. This review article focuses on the recent developments toward the delineation of the functional biology of VEGF and the role of anti-VEGF strategies in the management of tumor and eye pathologies. Moreover, therapeutic angiogenesis, an exciting frontier for the treatment of ischemic disorders, is highlighted in this review, including wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajmal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Research Chair in Ophthalmology, Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Imtiaz Nawaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Research Chair in Ophthalmology, Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cholenic acid derivative UniPR1331 impairs tumor angiogenesis via blockade of VEGF/VEGFR2 in addition to Eph/ephrin. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:908-917. [PMID: 34426652 PMCID: PMC9293752 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00379-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting ones, is crucial for tumor growth and metastatization, and is considered a promising therapeutic target. Unfortunately, drugs directed against a specific proangiogenic growth factor or receptor turned out to be of limited benefit for oncology patients, likely due to the high biochemical redundancy of the neovascularization process. In this scenario, multitarget compounds that are able to simultaneously tackle different proangiogenic pathways are eagerly awaited. UniPR1331 is a 3β-hydroxy-Δ5-cholenic acid derivative, which is already known to inhibit Eph-ephrin interaction. Here, we employed an analysis pipeline consisting of molecular modeling and simulation, surface plasmon resonance spectrometry, biochemical assays, and endothelial cell models to demonstrate that UniPR1331 directly interacts with the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) too. The binding of UniPR1331 to VEGFR2 prevents its interaction with the natural ligand vascular endothelial growth factor and subsequent autophosphorylation, signal transduction, and in vitro proangiogenic activation of endothelial cells. In vivo, UniPR1331 inhibits tumor cell-driven angiogenesis in zebrafish. Taken together, these data shed light on the pleiotropic pharmacological effect of UniPR1331, and point to Δ5-cholenic acid as a promising molecular scaffold for the development of multitarget antiangiogenic compounds.
Collapse
|
4
|
Cappelli HC, Guarino BD, Kanugula AK, Adapala RK, Perera V, Smith MA, Paruchuri S, Thodeti CK. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel deletion regulates pathological but not developmental retinal angiogenesis. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:3770-3779. [PMID: 33078410 PMCID: PMC7920906 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels are mechanosensitive ion channels that regulate systemic endothelial cell (EC) functions such as vasodilation, permeability, and angiogenesis. TRPV4 is expressed in retinal ganglion cells, Müller glia, pigment epithelium, microvascular ECs, and modulates cell volume regulation, calcium homeostasis, and survival. TRPV4-mediated physiological or pathological retinal angiogenesis remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that TRPV4 is expressed, functional, and mechanosensitive in retinal ECs. The genetic deletion of TRPV4 did not affect postnatal developmental angiogenesis but increased pathological neovascularization in response to oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Retinal vessels from TRPV4 knockout mice subjected to OIR exhibited neovascular tufts that projected into the vitreous humor and displayed reduced pericyte coverage compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that TRPV4 is a regulator of retinal angiogenesis, its deletion augments pathological retinal angiogenesis, and that TRPV4 could be a novel target for the development of therapies against neovascular ocular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly C. Cappelli
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
| | - Brianna D. Guarino
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Anantha K. Kanugula
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Ravi K. Adapala
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
| | - Vidushani Perera
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
| | - Matthew A. Smith
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- Rebbeca D. Considine Research Institute, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron, OH 44302
| | | | - Charles K. Thodeti
- Department of Integrative Medical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
VEGF-Independent Activation of Müller Cells by the Vitreous from Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042179. [PMID: 33671690 PMCID: PMC7926720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), a major complication of diabetes mellitus, results from an inflammation-sustained interplay among endothelial cells, neurons, and glia. Even though anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) interventions represent the therapeutic option for PDR, they are only partially efficacious. In PDR, Müller cells undergo reactive gliosis, produce inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, and contribute to scar formation and retinal neovascularization. However, the impact of anti-VEGF interventions on Müller cell activation has not been fully elucidated. Here, we show that treatment of MIO-M1 Müller cells with vitreous obtained from PDR patients stimulates cell proliferation and motility, and activates various intracellular signaling pathways. This leads to cytokine/chemokine upregulation, a response that was not mimicked by treatment with recombinant VEGF nor inhibited by the anti-VEGF drug ranibizumab. In contrast, fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) induced a significant overexpression of various cytokines/chemokines in MIO-M1 cells. In addition, the FGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor BGJ398, the pan-FGF trap NSC12, the heparin-binding protein antagonist N-tert-butyloxycarbonyl-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe Boc2, and the anti-inflammatory hydrocortisone all inhibited Müller cell activation mediated by PDR vitreous. These findings point to a role for various modulators beside VEGF in Müller cell activation and pave the way to the search for novel therapeutic strategies in PDR.
Collapse
|
6
|
Corsini M, Ravelli C, Grillo E, Dell'Era P, Presta M, Mitola S. Simultaneously characterization of tumoral angiogenesis and vasculogenesis in stem cell-derived teratomas. Exp Cell Res 2021; 400:112490. [PMID: 33484747 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2021.112490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Tumor neovascularization may occur via both angiogenic and vasculogenic events. In order to investigate the vessel formation during tumor growth, we developed a novel experimental model that takes into account the differentiative and tumorigenic properties of Embryonic Stem cells (ESCs). Leukemia Inhibitory Factor-deprived murine ESCs were grafted on the top of the chick embryo chorionallantoic membrane (CAM) in ovo. Cell grafts progressively grew, forming a vascularized mass within 10 days. At this stage, the grafts are formed by cells with differentiative features representative of all three germ layers, thus originating teratomas, a germinal cell tumor. In addition, ESC supports neovascular events by recruiting host capillaries from surrounding tissue that infiltrates the tumor mass. Moreover, immunofluorescence studies demonstrate that perfused active blood vessels within the tumor are of both avian and murine origin because of the simultaneous occurrence of angiogenic and vasculogenic events. In conclusion, the chick embryo ESC/CAM-derived teratoma model may represent a useful approach to investigate both vasculogenic and angiogenic events during tumor growth and for the study of natural and synthetic modulators of the two processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy; Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), University of Brescia, Italy.
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy; Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Dell'Era
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy; cFRU Lab, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Via Branze 39, 25123, Brescia, University of Brescia, Italy; Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), University of Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rezzola S, Loda A, Corsini M, Semeraro F, Annese T, Presta M, Ribatti D. Angiogenesis-Inflammation Cross Talk in Diabetic Retinopathy: Novel Insights From the Chick Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane/Human Vitreous Platform. Front Immunol 2020; 11:581288. [PMID: 33117388 PMCID: PMC7552803 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.581288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological angiogenesis of the retina is a key component of irreversible causes of blindness, as observed in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). The pathogenesis of PDR is complex and involves vascular, inflammatory, and neuronal mechanisms. Several structural and molecular alterations associated to PDR are related to the presence of inflammation that appears to play a non-redundant role in the neovascular response that characterizes the retina of PDR patients. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) blockers have evolved over time for the treatment of retinal neovascularization. However, several limitations to anti-VEGF interventions exist. Indeed, the production of other angiogenic factors and pro-inflammatory mediators may nullify and/or cause resistance to anti-VEGF therapies. Thus, appropriate experimental models are crucial for dissecting the mechanisms leading to retinal neovascularization and for the discovery of more efficacious anti-angiogenic/anti-inflammatory therapies for PDR patients. This review focuses on the tight cross talk between angiogenesis and inflammation during PDR and describe how the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay may represent a cost-effective and rapid in vivo tool for the study of the relationship between neovascular and inflammatory responses elicited by the vitreous humor of PDR patients and for the screening of novel therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Loda
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Annese
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Italian Consortium for Biotechnology (CIB), Unit of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nawaz MI, Rezzola S, Tobia C, Coltrini D, Belleri M, Mitola S, Corsini M, Sandomenico A, Caporale A, Ruvo M, Presta M. D-Peptide analogues of Boc-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe-COOH induce neovascularization via endothelial N-formyl peptide receptor 3. Angiogenesis 2020; 23:357-369. [PMID: 32152757 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-020-09714-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
N-formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) are G protein-coupled receptors involved in the recruitment and activation of immune cells in response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Three FPRs have been identified in humans (FPR1-FPR3), characterized by different ligand properties, biological function and cellular distribution. Recent findings from our laboratory have shown that the peptide BOC-FLFLF (L-BOC2), related to the FPR antagonist BOC2, acts as an angiogenesis inhibitor by binding to various angiogenic growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor-A165 (VEGF). Here we show that the all-D-enantiomer of L-BOC2 (D-BOC2) is devoid of any VEGF antagonist activity. At variance, D-BOC2, as well as the D-FLFLF and succinimidyl (Succ)-D-FLFLF (D-Succ-F3) D-peptide variants, is endowed with a pro-angiogenic potential. In particular, the D-peptide D-Succ-F3 exerts a pro-angiogenic activity in a variety of in vitro assays on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in ex vivo and in vivo assays in chick and zebrafish embryos and adult mice. This activity is related to the capacity of D-Succ-F3 to bind FRP3 expressed by HUVECs. Indeed, the effects exerted by D-Succ-F3 on HUVECs are fully suppressed by the G protein-coupled receptor inhibitor pertussis toxin, the FPR2/FPR3 antagonist WRW4 and by an anti-FPR3 antibody. A similar inhibition was observed following WRW4-induced FPR3 desensitization in HUVECs. Finally, D-Succ-F3 prevented the binding of the anti-FPR3 antibody to the cell surface of HUVECs. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that the angiogenic activity of D-Succ-F3 is due to the engagement and activation of FPR3 expressed by endothelial cells, thus shedding a new light on the biological function of this chemoattractant receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohd I Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Tobia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Coltrini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mirella Belleri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Caporale
- Istituto Di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Istituto Di Cristallografia, CNR, Trieste, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Istituto Di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- AnBition srl, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
- Italian Consortium for Biotechnology (CIB), Unit of Brescia, Trieste, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rezzola S, Nawaz MI, Cancarini A, Semeraro F, Presta M. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in the Vitreous of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Patients: Chasing a Hiding Prey? Diabetes Care 2019; 42:e105-e106. [PMID: 31221704 DOI: 10.2337/dc18-2527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mohd I Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Cancarini
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nawaz IM, Rezzola S, Cancarini A, Russo A, Costagliola C, Semeraro F, Presta M. Human vitreous in proliferative diabetic retinopathy: Characterization and translational implications. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 72:100756. [PMID: 30951889 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of visual impairment in the working-age population. DR is a progressive eye disease caused by long-term accumulation of hyperglycaemia-mediated pathological alterations in the retina of diabetic patients. DR begins with asymptomatic retinal abnormalities and may progress to advanced-stage proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), characterized by neovascularization or preretinal/vitreous haemorrhages. The vitreous, a transparent gel that fills the posterior cavity of the eye, plays a vital role in maintaining ocular function. Structural and molecular alterations of the vitreous, observed during DR progression, are consequences of metabolic and functional modifications of the retinal tissue. Thus, vitreal alterations reflect the pathological events occurring at the vitreoretinal interface. These events are caused by hypoxic, oxidative, inflammatory, neurodegenerative, and leukostatic conditions that occur during diabetes. Conversely, PDR vitreous can exert pathological effects on the diabetic retina, resulting in activation of a vicious cycle that contributes to disease progression. In this review, we recapitulate the major pathological features of DR/PDR, and focus on the structural and molecular changes that characterize the vitreal structure and composition during DR and progression to PDR. In PDR, vitreous represents a reservoir of pathological signalling molecules. Therefore, in this review we discuss how studying the biological activity of the vitreous in different in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental models can provide insights into the pathogenesis of PDR. In addition, the vitreous from PDR patients can represent a novel tool to obtain preclinical experimental evidences for the development and characterization of new therapeutic drug candidates for PDR therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imtiaz M Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Cancarini
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Ciro Costagliola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | | | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dao DT, Anez-Bustillos L, Ourieff J, Pan A, Mitchell PD, Kishikawa H, Fell GL, Baker MA, Watnick RS, Chen H, Hamilton TE, Rogers MS, Bielenberg DR, Puder M. Heparin impairs angiogenic signaling and compensatory lung growth after left pneumonectomy. Angiogenesis 2018; 21:837-848. [PMID: 29956017 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-018-9628-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Children with hypoplastic lung diseases, such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia, can require life support via extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and systemic anticoagulation, usually in the form of heparin. The role of heparin in angiogenesis and organ growth is inconclusive, with conflicting data reported in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the effects of heparin on lung growth in a model of compensatory lung growth (CLG). Compared to the absence of heparin, treatment with heparin decreased the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated activation of VEGFR2 and mitogenic effect on human lung microvascular endothelial cells in vitro. Compared to non-heparinized controls, heparinized mice demonstrated impaired pulmonary mechanics, decreased respiratory volumes and flows, and reduced activity levels after left pneumonectomy. They also had lower lung volume, pulmonary septal surface area and alveolar density on morphometric analyses. Lungs of heparinized mice displayed decreased phosphorylation of VEGFR2 compared to the control group, with consequential downstream reduction in markers of cellular proliferation and survival. The use of bivalirudin, an alternative anticoagulant that does not interact with VEGF, preserved lung growth and pulmonary mechanics. These results demonstrated that heparin impairs CLG by reducing VEGFR2 activation. These findings raise concern for the clinical use of heparin in the setting of organ growth or regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duy T Dao
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Lorenzo Anez-Bustillos
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jared Ourieff
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Amy Pan
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Paul D Mitchell
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Hiroko Kishikawa
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gillian L Fell
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Meredith A Baker
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Randolph S Watnick
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Thomas E Hamilton
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Michael S Rogers
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Diane R Bielenberg
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Mark Puder
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA. .,Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Fegan 3, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nawaz IM, Chiodelli P, Rezzola S, Paganini G, Corsini M, Lodola A, Di Ianni A, Mor M, Presta M. N-tert-butyloxycarbonyl-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe (BOC2) inhibits the angiogenic activity of heparin-binding growth factors. Angiogenesis 2017; 21:47-59. [PMID: 29030736 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9581-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The peptides N-tert-butyloxycarbonyl-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe (BOC2) and BOC-Met-Leu-Phe (BOC1) are widely used antagonists of formyl peptide receptors (FPRs), BOC2 acting as an FPR1/FPR2 antagonist whereas BOC1 inhibits FPR1 only. Extensive investigations have been performed by using these FPR antagonists as a tool to assess the role of FPRs in physiological and pathological conditions. Based on previous observations from our laboratory, we assessed the possibility that BOC2 may exert also a direct inhibitory effect on the angiogenic activity of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). Our data demonstrate that BOC2, but not BOC1, inhibits the angiogenic activity of heparin-binding VEGF-A165 with no effect on the activity of the non-heparin-binding VEGF-A121 isoform. Endothelial cell-based bioassays, surface plasmon resonance analysis, and computer modeling indicate that BOC2 may interact with the heparin-binding domain of VEGF-A165, thus competing for heparin interaction and preventing the binding of VEGF-A165 to tyrosine kinase receptor VEGFR2, its phosphorylation and downstream signaling. In addition, BOC2 inhibits the interaction of a variety of heparin-binding angiogenic growth factors with heparin, including fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) whose angiogenic activity is blocked by the compound. Accordingly, BOC2 suppresses the angiogenic potential of human tumor cell lines that co-express VEGF-A and FGF2. Thus, BOC2 appears to act as a novel multi-heparin-binding growth factor antagonist. These findings caution about the interpretation of FPR-focusing experimental data obtained with this compound and set the basis for the design of novel BOC2-derived, FPR independent multi-target angiogenesis inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imtiaz M Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paola Chiodelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Paganini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Marco Mor
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rezzola S, Nawaz IM, Cancarini A, Ravelli C, Calza S, Semeraro F, Presta M. 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous humor assay for the characterization of anti-angiogenic inhibitors for the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Angiogenesis 2017; 20:629-640. [PMID: 28905243 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9575-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) represents a main cause of acquired blindness. Despite the recognition of the key role exerted by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of PDR, limitations to anti-VEGF therapies do exist. Thus, rapid and cost-effective angiogenesis assays are crucial for the screening of anti-angiogenic drug candidates for PDR therapy. In this context, evaluation of the angiogenic potential of PDR vitreous fluid may represent a valuable tool for preclinical assessment of angiostatic molecules. Here, vitreous fluid obtained from PDR patients after pars plana vitrectomy was used as a pro-angiogenic stimulus in a 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous assay. The results show that PDR vitreous is able to stimulate the sprouting of fibrin-embedded HUVEC spheroids in a time- and dose-dependent manner. A remarkable variability was observed among 40 individual vitreous fluid samples in terms of sprouting-inducing activity that was related, at least in part, to defined clinical features of the PDR patient. This activity was hampered by various extracellular and intracellular signaling pathway inhibitors, including the VEGF antagonist ranibizumab. When tested on 20 individual vitreous fluid samples, the inhibitory activity of ranibizumab ranged between 0 and 100% of the activity measured in the absence of the drug, reflecting a variable contribution of angiogenic mediators distinct from VEGF. In conclusion, the 3D endothelial cell spheroid/human vitreous assay represents a rapid and cost-effective experimental procedure suitable for the evaluation of the anti-angiogenic activity of novel extracellular and intracellular drug candidates, with possible implications for the therapy of PDR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Imtiaz M Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Cancarini
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Calza
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A Critical Analysis of the Available In Vitro and Ex Vivo Methods to Study Retinal Angiogenesis. J Ophthalmol 2017; 2017:3034953. [PMID: 28848677 PMCID: PMC5564124 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3034953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a biological process with a central role in retinal diseases. The choice of the ideal method to study angiogenesis, particularly in the retina, remains a problem. Angiogenesis can be assessed through in vitro and in vivo studies. In spite of inherent limitations, in vitro studies are faster, easier to perform and quantify, and typically less expensive and allow the study of isolated angiogenesis steps. We performed a systematic review of PubMed searching for original articles that applied in vitro or ex vivo angiogenic retinal assays until May 2017, presenting the available assays and discussing their applicability, advantages, and disadvantages. Most of the studies evaluated migration, proliferation, and tube formation of endothelial cells in response to inhibitory or stimulatory compounds. Other aspects of angiogenesis were studied by assessing cell permeability, adhesion, or apoptosis, as well as by implementing organotypic models of the retina. Emphasis is placed on how the methods are applied and how they can contribute to retinal angiogenesis comprehension. We also discuss how to choose the best cell culture to implement these methods. When applied together, in vitro and ex vivo studies constitute a powerful tool to improve retinal angiogenesis knowledge. This review provides support for researchers to better select the most suitable protocols in this field.
Collapse
|
15
|
Cryptotanshinone inhibits VEGF-induced angiogenesis by targeting the VEGFR2 signaling pathway. Microvasc Res 2017; 111:25-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2016.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
16
|
Rezzola S, Corsini M, Chiodelli P, Cancarini A, Nawaz IM, Coltrini D, Mitola S, Ronca R, Belleri M, Lista L, Rusciano D, De Rosa M, Pavone V, Semeraro F, Presta M. Inflammation and N-formyl peptide receptors mediate the angiogenic activity of human vitreous humour in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Diabetologia 2017; 60:719-728. [PMID: 28083635 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-016-4204-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Angiogenesis and inflammation characterise proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), a major complication of diabetes mellitus. However, the impact of inflammation on the pathogenesis of PDR neovascularisation has not been elucidated. Here, we assessed the capacity of PDR vitreous fluid to induce pro-angiogenic/proinflammatory responses in endothelium and the contribution of the inflammation-related pattern recognition N-formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) in mediating these responses. METHODS Pooled and individual pars plana vitrectomy-derived PDR vitreous fluid ('PDR vitreous') samples were assessed in endothelial cell proliferation, motility, sprouting and morphogenesis assays, and for the capacity to induce proinflammatory transcription factor activation, reactive oxygen species production, intercellular junction disruption and leucocyte-adhesion molecule upregulation in these cells. In vivo, the pro-angiogenic/proinflammatory activity of PDR vitreous was tested in murine Matrigel plug and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assays. Finally, the FPR inhibitors Boc-Phe-Leu-Phe-Leu-Phe (Boc-FLFLF) and Ac-L-Arg-Aib-L-Arg-L-Cα(Me)Phe-NH2 tetrapeptide (UPARANT) were evaluated for their capacity to affect the biological responses elicited by PDR vitreous. RESULTS PDR vitreous activates a pro-angiogenic/proinflammatory phenotype in endothelial cells. Accordingly, PDR vitreous triggers a potent angiogenic/inflammatory response in vivo. Notably, the different capacity of individual PDR vitreous samples to induce neovessel formation in the CAM correlates with their ability to recruit infiltrating CD45+ cells. Finally, the FPR inhibitor Boc-FLFLF and the novel FPR antagonist UPARANT inhibit neovessel formation and inflammatory responses triggered by PDR vitreous in the CAM assay. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION This study provides evidence that inflammation mediates the angiogenic activity of PDR vitreous and paves the way for the development of FPR-targeting anti-inflammatory/anti-angiogenic approaches for PDR therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Paola Chiodelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Anna Cancarini
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Imtiaz M Nawaz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Daniela Coltrini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Mirella Belleri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Liliana Lista
- Department of Chemical Sciences, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Mario De Rosa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, 'Federico II' University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Via Branze 39, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Rezzola S, Paganini G, Semeraro F, Presta M, Tobia C. Zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) embryo as a platform for the identification of novel angiogenesis inhibitors of retinal vascular diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1862:1291-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
18
|
Semeraro F, Russo A, Gambicorti E, Duse S, Morescalchi F, Vezzoli S, Costagliola C. Efficacy and vitreous levels of topical NSAIDs. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2015; 12:1767-82. [PMID: 26173446 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2015.1068756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most commonly prescribed medications and are routinely used for their analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of their potent cyclooxygenase-inhibitory activity, they can inhibit pro-inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis, leading to complex inflammatory cascades. NSAIDs have been broadly used systemically for many decades and have recently become commercially available in the form of topical ophthalmic formulations. NSAIDs are weak acids with pKa values mostly between 3.5 and 4.5 and are poorly water-soluble. New, aqueous ophthalmic solutions of NSAIDs that afford better tissue penetration have recently been developed. In ophthalmological practice, topical NSAIDs are mostly used to stabilize pupillary dilation during intraocular surgery, manage postoperative pain and inflammation, and treat pseudophakic cystoid macular edema. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on the vitreous penetration of topical NSAIDs and their potential clinical applications in the treatment of retinal diseases. EXPERT OPINION A growing body of evidence suggests that NSAIDs may be beneficial in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and ocular tumors. Recent studies from our group and other authors have shown that the vitreous levels of NSAID exceed the median inhibitory concentration, which can significantly decrease vitreous PGE2 levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Semeraro
- a 1 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic , Brescia, Italy +390303995308 ; +390303388191 ;
| | - Andrea Russo
- a 1 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic , Brescia, Italy +390303995308 ; +390303388191 ;
| | - Elena Gambicorti
- a 1 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic , Brescia, Italy +390303995308 ; +390303388191 ;
| | - Sarah Duse
- a 1 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic , Brescia, Italy +390303995308 ; +390303388191 ;
| | - Francesco Morescalchi
- a 1 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic , Brescia, Italy +390303995308 ; +390303388191 ;
| | - Sara Vezzoli
- b 2 University of Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Specialties and Public Health, Forensic Medicine , Brescia, Italy
| | - Ciro Costagliola
- c 3 University of Molise, Department of Medicine and Health Sciences , Campobasso, Italy.,d 4 I.R.C.C.S Neuromed, Località Camerelle , Pozzilli (Isernia), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Heparin/Heparan sulfate proteoglycans glycomic interactome in angiogenesis: biological implications and therapeutical use. Molecules 2015; 20:6342-88. [PMID: 25867824 PMCID: PMC6272510 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20046342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the process of formation of new blood vessel from pre-existing ones, is involved in various intertwined pathological processes including virus infection, inflammation and oncogenesis, making it a promising target for the development of novel strategies for various interventions. To induce angiogenesis, angiogenic growth factors (AGFs) must interact with pro-angiogenic receptors to induce proliferation, protease production and migration of endothelial cells (ECs). The action of AGFs is counteracted by antiangiogenic modulators whose main mechanism of action is to bind (thus sequestering or masking) AGFs or their receptors. Many sugars, either free or associated to proteins, are involved in these interactions, thus exerting a tight regulation of the neovascularization process. Heparin and heparan sulfate proteoglycans undoubtedly play a pivotal role in this context since they bind to almost all the known AGFs, to several pro-angiogenic receptors and even to angiogenic inhibitors, originating an intricate network of interaction, the so called "angiogenesis glycomic interactome". The decoding of the angiogenesis glycomic interactome, achievable by a systematic study of the interactions occurring among angiogenic modulators and sugars, may help to design novel antiangiogenic therapies with implications in the cure of angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
Collapse
|
20
|
Semeraro F, Cancarini A, dell'Omo R, Rezzola S, Romano MR, Costagliola C. Diabetic Retinopathy: Vascular and Inflammatory Disease. J Diabetes Res 2015; 2015:582060. [PMID: 26137497 PMCID: PMC4475523 DOI: 10.1155/2015/582060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 263] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of visual impairment in the working-age population of the Western world. The pathogenesis of DR is complex and several vascular, inflammatory, and neuronal mechanisms are involved. Inflammation mediates structural and molecular alterations associated with DR. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the inflammatory pathways associated with DR are not completely characterized. Previous studies indicate that tissue hypoxia and dysregulation of immune responses associated with diabetes mellitus can induce increased expression of numerous vitreous mediators responsible for DR development. Thus, analysis of vitreous humor obtained from diabetic patients has made it possible to identify some of the mediators (cytokines, chemokines, and other factors) responsible for DR pathogenesis. Further studies are needed to better understand the relationship between inflammation and DR. Herein the main vitreous-related factors triggering the occurrence of retinal complication in diabetes are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F. Semeraro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - A. Cancarini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - R. dell'Omo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - S. Rezzola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - M. R. Romano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples, Italy
| | - C. Costagliola
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
- ICRRS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Isernia, Italy
- *C. Costagliola:
| |
Collapse
|