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Chen J, Ni Y, Yao W, Ding X. Clinical observations and mechanistic insights of traditional Chinese medicine in the management of diabetic retinopathy. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2024; 62:529-543. [PMID: 38921697 PMCID: PMC11210421 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2024.2369292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness among diabetic patients globally. Despite advancements in conventional treatments, the quest for more holistic approaches and fewer side effects persists. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries in managing various diseases, including diabetes and its complications. OBJECTIVE This review evaluated the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of TCM in the management of DR, providing information on its potential integration with conventional treatment methods. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) with the search terms 'traditional Chinese medicine', 'diabetic retinopathy', 'clinical efficacies' and their combinations. Studies published before 2023 without language restriction were included, focusing on clinical trials and observational studies that assessed the effectiveness of TCM in DR treatment. RESULTS The review synthesized evidence of empirical traditional Chinese formulas, traditional Chinese patent medicines, and isolated phytochemicals on DR treatment. The key mechanisms identified included the reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and neovascularization, as well as the improvement in neurovascular functionality and integrity of the retinal blood barrier. CONCLUSIONS TCM shows promising potential to manage DR. More large-scale, randomized controlled trials are recommended to validate these findings and facilitate the integration of TCM into mainstream DR treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yadong Ni
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenhui Yao
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuansheng Ding
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Precision Medicine Laboratory, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Gong Q, Wang J, Luo D, Xu Y, Zhang R, Li X, Yin Z, Fang J, Wang H. Accumulation of branched-chain amino acids deteriorates the neuroinflammatory response of Müller cells in diabetic retinopathy via leucine/Sestrin2-mediated sensing of mTOR signaling. Acta Diabetol 2024:10.1007/s00592-024-02349-3. [PMID: 39150511 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-024-02349-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to investigate branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) catabolism in diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS Wild-type and db/db mice were fed BCAAs (5 or 10 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks, and hyperglycemia-exposed Müller cells were treated with BCAAs (2 or 5 mmol/L) for 24 and 48 h. BCAA levels were measured using MS/MS. Western blotting was performed to detect proteins. Flow cytometry, oxygen consumption rate, and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays were used to evaluate Müller cell viability. Each experiment was conducted at least thrice. RESULTS BCAAs and branched-chain α-keto acids (BCKAs) were increased in the retina and systemic tissues of diabetic mice, and these changes were further enhanced to approximately 2-fold by extra BCAAs compared to wild-type group. In vitro, BCAAs and BCKAs were induced in hyperglycemic Müller cells, and augmented by BCAA supplementation. The aberrant BCAA catabolism was accompanied by mTORC1 activation and subsequently induced TNF-ɑ, VEGFA, GS, and GFAP in retinas and Müller cells under diabetic conditions. The cell apoptosis rate increased by approximately 50%, and mitochondrial respiration was inhibited by hyperglycemia and BCAA in Müller cells. Additionally, mTORC1 signaling was activated by leucine in Müller cells. Knockdown of Sestrin2 or LeuRS significantly abolished the leucine-induced mTORC1 phosphorylation and protected Müller cell viability under diabetic conditions. CONCLUSIONS We found that BCAA catabolism is hindered in DR through mTORC1 activation. Leucine plays a key role in inducing mTORC1 by sensing Sestrin2 in Müller cells. Targeting Sestrin2 may ameliorate the toxic effects of BCAA accumulation on Müller cells in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyun Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Dawei Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Yupeng Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Rulin Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Zihan Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, No. 100 Haining Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, 200080, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Disease, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Nicolini G, Casini G, Posarelli C, Amato R, Lulli M, Balzan S, Forini F. Thyroid Hormone Signaling in Retinal Development and Function: Implications for Diabetic Retinopathy and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7364. [PMID: 39000471 PMCID: PMC11242054 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Thyroid Hormones (THs) play a central role in the development, cell growth, differentiation, and metabolic homeostasis of neurosensory systems, including the retina. The coordinated activity of various components of TH signaling, such as TH receptors (THRs) and the TH processing enzymes deiodinases 2 and 3 (DIO2, DIO3), is required for proper retinal maturation and function of the adult photoreceptors, Müller glial cells, and pigmented epithelial cells. Alterations of TH homeostasis, as observed both in frank or subclinical thyroid disorders, have been associated with sight-threatening diseases leading to irreversible vision loss i.e., diabetic retinopathy (DR), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although observational studies do not allow causal inference, emerging data from preclinical models suggest a possible correlation between TH signaling imbalance and the development of retina disease. In this review, we analyze the most important features of TH signaling relevant to retinal development and function and its possible implication in DR and AMD etiology. A better understanding of TH pathways in these pathological settings might help identify novel targets and therapeutic strategies for the prevention and management of retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Posarelli
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Lulli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
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Reddy SK, Devi V, Seetharaman ATM, Shailaja S, Bhat KMR, Gangaraju R, Upadhya D. Cell and molecular targeted therapies for diabetic retinopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1416668. [PMID: 38948520 PMCID: PMC11211264 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1416668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as a prevalent complication in the eye resulting from diabetes mellitus, predominantly associated with high blood sugar levels and hypertension as individuals age. DR is a severe microvascular complication of both type I and type II diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of vision impairment. The critical approach to combatting and halting the advancement of DR lies in effectively managing blood glucose and blood pressure levels in diabetic patients; however, this is seldom achieved. Both human and animal studies have revealed the intricate nature of this condition involving various cell types and molecules. Aside from photocoagulation, the sole therapy targeting VEGF molecules in the retina to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth is intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. However, a substantial portion of cases, approximately 30-40%, do not respond to this treatment. This review explores distinctive pathophysiological phenomena of DR and identifiable cell types and molecules that could be targeted to mitigate the chronic changes occurring in the retina due to diabetes mellitus. Addressing the significant research gap in this domain is imperative to broaden the treatment options available for managing DR effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivakumar K. Reddy
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vasudha Devi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Amritha T. M. Seetharaman
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - S. Shailaja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kumar M. R. Bhat
- Department of Anatomy, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Rajashekhar Gangaraju
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Dinesh Upadhya
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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Liu C, Cheng T, Wang Y, Li G, Wang Y, Tian W, Feng L, Zhang S, Xu Y, Gao Y, Li J, Liu J, Cui J, Yan J, Cao L, Pan Z, Qi Z, Yang L. Syringaresinol Alleviates Early Diabetic Retinopathy by Downregulating HIF-1α/VEGF via Activating Nrf2 Antioxidant Pathway. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024; 68:e2200771. [PMID: 38356045 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202200771] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
SCOPE Early diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by chronic inflammation, excessive oxidative stress, and retinal microvascular damage. Syringaresinol (SYR), as a natural polyphenolic compound, has been proved to inhibit many disease progression due to its antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties. The present study focuses on exploring the effect of SYR on hyperglycemia-induced early DR as well as the underlying mechanisms. METHODS AND RESULTS Wild-type (WT) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-knockout C57BL/6 mice of type 1 diabetes and high glucose (HG)-induced RF/6A cells are used as in vivo and in vitro models, respectively. This study finds that SYR protects the retinal structure and function in diabetic mice and reduces the permeability and apoptosis of HG-treated RF/6A cells. Meanwhile, SYR distinctly mitigates inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo and vitro. The retinal microvascular damages are suppressed by SYR via downregulating hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway. Whereas, SYR-provided protective effects are diminished in Nrf2-knockout mice, indicating that SYR improves DR progression by activating Nrf2. Similarly, SYR cannot exert protective effects against HG-induced oxidative stress and endothelial injury in small interfering RNA (siRNA)-Nrf2-transfected RF/6A cells. CONCLUSION In summary, SYR suppresses oxidative stress via activating Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, which ameliorates retinal microvascular damage by downregulating HIF-1α/VEGF, thereby alleviating early DR progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Nankai University Eye Institute, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Tianwei Cheng
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Guangru Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yachen Wang
- Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Wencong Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300122, China
| | - Lifeng Feng
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Shengzheng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jianlin Cui
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300122, China
| | - Zhongjie Pan
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300122, China
| | - Zhi Qi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Nankai University Eye Institute, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300122, China
- Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps Hospital, Xinjiang, 830002, China
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Nankai University Tianjin, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, 300122, China
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Wang Y, Sun X, Xie Y, Du A, Chen M, Lai S, Wei X, Ji L, Wang C. Panax notoginseng saponins alleviate diabetic retinopathy by inhibiting retinal inflammation: Association with the NF-κB signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117135. [PMID: 37689326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurovascular disease that causes blindness in adults and is the most serious and common complication of diabetes mellitus. Retinal inflammation is an early stage of DR, and it is believed to play a crucial role in the development of DR. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are the major active constituent in the main root of P. notoginseng, and they exhibit various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory functions. However, the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of PNS against DR remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the alleviation effects of PNS on DR and the mechanisms involved. Furthermore, it intended to explore the major components that exert efficacy in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS Streptozotocin (STZ) was administered intraperitoneally to Sprague Dawley rats, and PNS was administered orally for 1 month after 2 months of STZ injection. The morphological structure of the retina and retinal acellular capillaries were assessed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining assay. The disruption of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) was detected through Evans blue dye leakage assay, and retinal leukocyte adhesion was achieved via fluorescein isothiocyanate-coupled concanavalin A lectin labeling assay. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot assays were conducted to detect the expression of tight junction proteins, adhesion molecules, and the ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) in the retina. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β in serum. In addition, the protein expression levels of nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, phosphorylated IκB kinase (p-IKK), phosphorylated NF-κB inhibitor (p-IκB), and phosphorylated NF-κB p65 (p-p65) were measured using Western blot assay. The ocular tissue distribution of PNS in normal and diabetic rats was determined through ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of PNS, notoginsenoside (NGR1), ginsenoside Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd (GRg1, GRe, GRb1, and GRd) were evaluated on human Müller (MIO-M1) cells. RESULTS PNS increased the reduction in retinal inner nuclear layer thickness, reduced the increase in retinal acellular capillaries, and attenuated elevated BRB disruption by upregulating the decrease in protein expression of claudin-1 and occludin. Furthermore, PNS significantly abrogated microglial cell activation and reversed the increase in leukocyte adhesion by downregulating the increase in the protein expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Moreover, PNS reduced the elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in serum and inhibited the increased protein expression of p-IKK, p-IκB, and p-p65, and the nuclear translocation of p65. The tissue distribution results revealed that NGR1, GRg1, GRe, GRb1, and GRd were detected in the ocular tissue, while GRg1 and GRb1 were found at the highest levels compared with the other components. The cellular results showed that PNS, NGR1, GRg1, GRe, GRb1, and GRd suppressed the development of cellular inflammatory responses by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in MIO-M1 cells and that their anti-inflammatory effects were comparable. CONCLUSION PNS suppressed retinal inflammation by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, alleviating DR. GRg1 and GRb1 may be the primary components that exert anti-inflammatory effects in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Wang
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Xin Sun
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yumin Xie
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ao Du
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ming Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Comprehensive Utilization Technology of Pseudo-ginseng, Wu Zhou, 543000, China.
| | - Shusheng Lai
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Comprehensive Utilization Technology of Pseudo-ginseng, Wu Zhou, 543000, China.
| | - Xiaohui Wei
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Lili Ji
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Changhong Wang
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Forini F, Nicolini G, Amato R, Balzan S, Saba A, Bertolini A, Andreucci E, Marracci S, Melecchi A, Terlizzi D, Zucchi R, Iervasi G, Lulli M, Casini G. Local modulation of thyroid hormone signaling in the retina affects the development of diabetic retinopathy. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166892. [PMID: 37758065 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166892] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormone (TH) dyshomeostasis is associated with poor prognosis in acute and prolonged illness, but its role in diabetic retinopathy (DR) has never been investigated. Here, we characterized the TH system in the retinas of db/db mice and highlighted regulatory processes in MIO-M1 cells. In the db/db retinas, typical functional traits and molecular signatures of DR were paralleled by a tissue-restricted reduction of TH levels. A local condition of low T3 (LT3S) was also demonstrated, which was likely to be induced by deiodinase 3 (DIO3) upregulation, and by decreased expression of DIO2 and of TH receptors. Concurrently, T3-responsive genes, including mitochondrial markers and microRNAs (miR-133-3p, 338-3p and 29c-3p), were downregulated. In MIO-M1 cells, a feedback regulatory circuit was evidenced whereby miR-133-3p triggered the post-transcriptional repression of DIO3 in a T3-dependent manner, while high glucose (HG) led to DIO3 upregulation through a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-hypoxia-inducible factor-1 pathway. Finally, an in vitro simulated condition of early LT3S and hyperglycemia correlated with reduced markers of both mitochondrial function and stress response, which was reverted by T3 replacement. Together, the data suggest that, in the early phases of DR, a DIO3-driven LT3S may be protective against retinal stress, while, in the chronic phase, it not only fails to limit HG-induced damage, but also increases cell vulnerability likely due to persistent mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Forini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Silvana Balzan
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Saba
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing (CISUP), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Andrea Bertolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Elena Andreucci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | | | | | - Domiziana Terlizzi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Zucchi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Iervasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Research Council, Rome, Italy.
| | - Matteo Lulli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing (CISUP), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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8
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Sun WJ, An XD, Zhang YH, Zhao XF, Sun YT, Yang CQ, Kang XM, Jiang LL, Ji HY, Lian FM. The ideal treatment timing for diabetic retinopathy: the molecular pathological mechanisms underlying early-stage diabetic retinopathy are a matter of concern. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1270145. [PMID: 38027131 PMCID: PMC10680169 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1270145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a prevalent complication of diabetes, significantly impacting patients' quality of life due to vision loss. No pharmacological therapies are currently approved for DR, excepted the drugs to treat diabetic macular edema such as the anti-VEGF agents or steroids administered by intraocular route. Advancements in research have highlighted the crucial role of early intervention in DR for halting or delaying disease progression. This holds immense significance in enhancing patients' quality of life and alleviating the societal burden associated with medical care costs. The non-proliferative stage represents the early phase of DR. In comparison to the proliferative stage, pathological changes primarily manifest as microangiomas and hemorrhages, while at the cellular level, there is a loss of pericytes, neuronal cell death, and disruption of components and functionality within the retinal neuronal vascular unit encompassing pericytes and neurons. Both neurodegenerative and microvascular abnormalities manifest in the early stages of DR. Therefore, our focus lies on the non-proliferative stage of DR and we have initially summarized the mechanisms involved in its development, including pathways such as polyols, that revolve around the pathological changes occurring during this early stage. We also integrate cutting-edge mechanisms, including leukocyte adhesion, neutrophil extracellular traps, multiple RNA regulation, microorganisms, cell death (ferroptosis and pyroptosis), and other related mechanisms. The current status of drug therapy for early-stage DR is also discussed to provide insights for the development of pharmaceutical interventions targeting the early treatment of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jie Sun
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Dong An
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue-Hong Zhang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Fei Zhao
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Ting Sun
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cun-Qing Yang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Min Kang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lin-Lin Jiang
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hang-Yu Ji
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feng-Mei Lian
- Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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9
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Wang Y, Halawa M, Chatterjee A, Eshwaran R, Qiu Y, Wibowo YC, Pan J, Wieland T, Feng Y. Sufficient Cav-1 levels in the endothelium are critical for the maintenance of the neurovascular unit in the retina. Mol Med 2023; 29:152. [PMID: 37923999 PMCID: PMC10623831 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00749-9] [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: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is a pivotal protein in the plasma membrane. Studies on homozygous Cav-1 deficient mice revealed that Cav-1 is essential for endothelial function and angiogenesis in the retina. However, whether a reduction in Cav-1 content hampers the neurovascular unit (NVU) in the retina is unclear. Thus, this study examines the NVU in the retinas of heterozygous Cav-1 deficient (Cav-1+/-) mice and analyzes possible underlying mechanisms. METHODS The vascular, glial and neuronal components in the retina were evaluated using retinal morphometry, whole mount retinal immunofluorescence staining, histological analysis and optical coherence tomography. In addition, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence staining, subcellular fractionation, biotin labeling of cell surface proteins, and proximity ligation assay were employed to detect expression and localization of proteins in the retina or endothelial cells (ECs) upon knockdown of Cav-1 with Cav-1 siRNA. RESULTS Cav-1+/- retinas showed a significant reduction in pericyte coverage along with an increase in acellular capillaries compared to controls at 8 months of age, but not at 1 month. A significant loss and obvious morphological abnormalities of smooth muscle cells were observed in 8-month-old Cav-1+/- retinal arterioles. Macroglial and microglial cells were activated in the Cav-1+/- retinas. A transient significant delay in retinal angiogenesis was detected in Cav-1+/- retinas at p5, which was however no longer detectable at p10. The Cav-1+/- retinas displayed increased vascular permeability and a notable reduction in VEGFR2 content at 8 months. In vitro, siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments in ECs revealed that the loss of Cav-1 in ECs resulted in decreased levels of VEGFR2, VE-Cadherin and their interaction at the plasma membrane as well. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that a sufficient Cav-1 level over 50% of its normal abundance is vital for the proper localization of VEGFR2 and VE-cadherin, likely in a complex, at the plasma membrane, which is essential for the maintenance of normal NVU in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Wang
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Mahmoud Halawa
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anupriya Chatterjee
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rachana Eshwaran
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yi Qiu
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yohanes Cakrapradipta Wibowo
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jianyuan Pan
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yuxi Feng
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Str. 13-17, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
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10
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Amato R, Melecchi A, Pucci L, Canovai A, Marracci S, Cammalleri M, Dal Monte M, Caddeo C, Casini G. Liposome-Mediated Delivery Improves the Efficacy of Lisosan G against Retinopathy in Diabetic Mice. Cells 2023; 12:2448. [PMID: 37887292 PMCID: PMC10605070 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutraceuticals are natural substances whose anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may be used to treat retinal pathologies. Their efficacy is limited by poor bioavailability, which could be improved using nanocarriers. Lisosan G (LG), a fermented powder from whole grains, protects the retina from diabetic retinopathy (DR)-induced damage. For this study, we tested whether the encapsulation of LG in liposomes (LipoLG) may increase its protective effects. Diabetes was induced in mice via streptozotocin administration, and the mice were allowed to freely drink water or a water dispersion of two different doses of LG or of LipoLG. Electroretinographic recordings after 6 weeks showed that only the highest dose of LG could partially protect the retina from diabetes-induced functional deficits, while both doses of LipoLG were effective. An evaluation of molecular markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, vascular endothelial growth factor, and the blood-retinal barrier confirmed that the highest dose of LG only partially protected the retina from DR-induced changes, while virtually complete prevention was obtained with either dose of LipoLG. These data indicate that the efficacy of LG in contrasting DR is greatly enhanced by its encapsulation in liposomes and may lay the ground for new dietary supplements with improved therapeutic effects against DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Alberto Melecchi
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Laura Pucci
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Alessio Canovai
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Silvia Marracci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Carla Caddeo
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (R.A.); (A.M.); (A.C.); (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.D.M.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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11
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Catalani E, Del Quondam S, Brunetti K, Cherubini A, Bongiorni S, Taddei AR, Zecchini S, Giovarelli M, De Palma C, Perrotta C, Clementi E, Prantera G, Cervia D. Neuroprotective role of plumbagin on eye damage induced by high-sucrose diet in adult fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115298. [PMID: 37597318 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The natural compound plumbagin has a wide range of pharmacological and potential therapeutic activities, although its role in neuroretina degeneration is unknown. Here we evaluated the effects of plumbagin on retina homeostasis of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster fed with high glucose diet, a model of hyperglycemia-induced eye impairment to study the pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy at the early stages. To this aim, the visual system of flies orally administered with plumbagin has been analyzed at structural, functional, and molecular/cellular level as for instance neuronal apoptosis/autophagy dysregulation and oxidative stress-related signals. Our results demonstrated that plumbagin ameliorates the visual performance of hyperglycemic flies. Drosophila eye-structure, clearly altered by hyperglycemia, i.e. defects of the pattern of ommatidia, irregular rhabdomeres, vacuoles, damaged mitochondria, and abnormal phototransduction units were rescued, at least in part, by plumbagin. In addition, it reactivated autophagy, decreased the presence of cell death/apoptotic features, and exerted antioxidant effects in the retina. In terms of mechanisms favoring death/survival ratio, Nrf2 signaling activation may be one of the strategies by which plumbagin reduced redox unbalance mainly increasing the levels of glutathione-S-transferase. Likewise, plumbagin may act additively and/or synergistically inhibiting the mitochondrial-endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response pathways, which prevented neuronal impairment and eye damage induced by reactive oxygen species. These results provide an avenue for further studies, which may be helpful to develop novel therapeutic candidates and drug targets against eye neurotoxicity by high glucose, a key aspect in retinal complications of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Catalani
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Simona Del Quondam
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Kashi Brunetti
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Agnese Cherubini
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Silvia Bongiorni
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Taddei
- Section of Electron Microscopy, Great Equipment Center, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Silvia Zecchini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Giovarelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Clara De Palma
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), Università degli Studi di Milano, via L. Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristiana Perrotta
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Emilio Clementi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy; Scientific Institute IRCCS "Eugenio Medea", via Don Luigi Monza 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Giorgio Prantera
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Davide Cervia
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy.
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12
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Afarid M, Bahari H, Sanie-Jahromi F. In Vitro Evaluation of Apoptosis, Inflammation, Angiogenesis, and Neuroprotection Gene Expression in Retinal Pigmented Epithelial Cell Treated with Interferon α-2b. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2023. [PMID: 37289822 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2023.0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, retinal neuropathy, and inflammation are the main molecular features of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and should be taken into consideration for potential treatment approaches. Retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells play a major role in DR progression. This study evaluated the in vitro effect of interferon (IFN) α-2b on the expression of genes involved in apoptosis, inflammation, neuroprotection, and angiogenesis in RPE cells. RPE cells were cocultured with IFN α-2b at 2 doses (500 and 1,000 IU) and treatment periods (24 and 48 h). The quantitative relative expression of genes (BCL-2, BAX, BDNF, VEGF, and IL-1b) was evaluated in the treated versus control cells through real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The result of this study demonstrated that IFN treatment at 1,000 IU (48 h) led to significant upregulation of BCL-2, BAX, BDNF, and IL-1b; however, the BCL-2/BAX ratio was not statistically altered from 1:1, in any of the treatment patterns. We also showed that VEGF expression was downregulated in RPE cells treated with 500 IU for 24 h. It can be concluded that IFN α-2b was safe (BCL-2/BAX ∼1:1) and enhanced neuroprotection at 1,000 IU (48 h); however-at the same time-IFN α-2b induced inflammation in RPE cells. Moreover, the antiangiogenic effect of IFN α-2b was solely observed in RPE cells treated with 500 IU (24 h). It seems that IFN α-2b in lower doses and short duration exerts antiangiogenic effects and in higher doses and longer duration has neuroprotective and inflammatory effects. Hence, appropriate concentration and duration of treatment, according to the type and stage of the disease, should be considered to achieve success in IFN therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Afarid
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Bahari
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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13
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Moreira D, Lopes-Nunes J, Santos FM, Campello MPC, Oliveira MC, Paulo A, Tomaz C, Cruz C. Assessment of Aptamer as a Potential Drug Targeted Delivery for Retinal Angiogenesis Inhibition. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050751. [PMID: 37242534 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
AT11-L0 is an aptamer derivative of AS1411 composed of G-rich sequences that can adopt a G-quadruplex (G4) structure and target nucleolin (NCL), a protein that acts as a co-receptor for several growth factors. Hence, this study aimed to characterize the AT11-L0 G4 structure and its interaction with several ligands for NCL targeting and to evaluate their capacity to inhibit angiogenesis using an in vitro model. The AT11-L0 aptamer was then used to functionalize drug-associated liposomes to increase the bioavailability of the aptamer-based drug in the formulation. Biophysical studies, such as nuclear magnetic resonance, circular dichroism, and fluorescence titrations, were performed to characterize the liposomes functionalized with the AT11-L0 aptamer. Finally, these liposome formulations with the encapsulated drugs were tested on the human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) model to assess their antiangiogenic capacity. The results showed that the AT11-L0 aptamer-ligand complexes are highly stable, presenting melting temperatures from 45 °C to 60 °C, allowing for efficient targeting of NCL with a KD in the order of nM. The aptamer-functionalized liposomes loaded with ligands C8 and dexamethasone did not show cytotoxic effects in HUVEC cells compared with the free ligands and AT11-L0, as assessed by cell viability assays. AT11-L0 aptamer-functionalized liposomes encapsulating C8 and dexamethasone did not present a significant reduction in the angiogenic process when compared with the free ligands. In addition, AT11-L0 did not show anti-angiogenic effects at the concentrations tested. However, C8 shows potential as an angiogenesis inhibitor, which should be further developed and optimized in future experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Moreira
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Lopes-Nunes
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Fátima Milhano Santos
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Calle Darwin 3, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Paula Cabral Campello
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
- Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
| | - Maria Cristina Oliveira
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
- Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
| | - António Paulo
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
- Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
| | - Cândida Tomaz
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Departamento de Química, Universityof Beira Interior, Rua Marquês de Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- Departamento de Química, Universityof Beira Interior, Rua Marquês de Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
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14
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Bonet A, Pampalona J, Jose-Cunilleras E, Nacher V, Ruberte J. Ferritin But Not Iron Increases in Retina Upon Systemic Iron Overload in Diabetic and Iron-Dextran Injected Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:22. [PMID: 36912597 PMCID: PMC10019492 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.3.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Iron overload causes oxidative damage in the retina, and it has been involved in the pathogeny of diabetic retinopathy, which is one of the leading causes of blindness in the adult population worldwide. However, how systemic iron enters the retina during diabetes and the role of blood retinal barrier (BRB) in this process remains unclear. Methods The db/db mouse, a well-known model of type 2 diabetes, and a model of systemic iron overload induced by iron dextran intraperitoneal injection, were used. Perls staining and mass spectrophotometry were used to study iron content. Western blot and immunohistochemistry of iron handling proteins were performed to study systemic and retinal iron metabolism. BRB function was assessed by analyzing vascular leakage in fundus angiographies, whole retinas, and retinal sections and by studying the status of tight junctions using transmission electron microscopy and Western blot analysis. Results Twenty-week-old db/db mice with systemic iron overload presented ferritin overexpression without iron increase in the retina and did not show any sign of BRB breakdown. These findings were also observed in iron dextran-injected mice. In those animals, after BRB breakdown induced by cryopexy, iron entered massively in the retina. Conclusions Our results suggested that BRB protects the retina from excessive iron entry in early stages of diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, ferritin overexpression before iron increase may prepare the retina for a potential BRB breakdown and iron entry from the systemic circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aina Bonet
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy (CBATEG), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Judit Pampalona
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy (CBATEG), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Eduard Jose-Cunilleras
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Víctor Nacher
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jesús Ruberte
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy (CBATEG), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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15
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Lee AJ, Moon CH, Lee YJ, Jeon HY, Park WS, Ha KS. Systemic C-peptide supplementation ameliorates retinal neurodegeneration by inhibiting VEGF-induced pathological events in diabetes. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22763. [PMID: 36625326 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201390rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is caused by retinal vascular dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Intraocular delivery of C-peptide has been shown to be beneficial against hyperglycemia-induced microvascular leakage in the retina of diabetes; however, the effect of C-peptide on diabetes-induced retinal neurodegeneration remains unknown. Moreover, extraocular C-peptide replacement therapy against DR to avoid various adverse effects caused by intravitreal injections has not been studied. Here, we demonstrate that systemic C-peptide supplementation using osmotic pumps or biopolymer-conjugated C-peptide hydrogels ameliorates neurodegeneration by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor-induced pathological events, but not hyperglycemia-induced vascular endothelial growth factor expression, in the retinas of diabetic mice. C-peptide inhibited hyperglycemia-induced activation of macroglial and microglial cells, downregulation of glutamate aspartate transporter 1 expression, neuronal apoptosis, and histopathological changes by a mechanism involving reactive oxygen species generation in the retinas of diabetic mice, but transglutaminase 2, which is involved in retinal vascular leakage, is not associated with these pathological events. Overall, our findings suggest that systemic C-peptide supplementation alleviates hyperglycemia-induced retinal neurodegeneration by inhibiting a pathological mechanism, involving reactive oxygen species, but not transglutaminase 2, in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ah-Jun Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Chan-Hee Moon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Ju Lee
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Hye-Yoon Jeon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Won Sun Park
- Department of Physiology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Kwon-Soo Ha
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, South Korea
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16
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Protective Effects of Human Pericyte-like Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Human Retinal Endothelial Cells in an In Vitro Model of Diabetic Retinopathy: Evidence for Autologous Cell Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24020913. [PMID: 36674425 PMCID: PMC9860961 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24020913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by morphologic and metabolic alterations in endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs) of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB). The loss of interendothelial junctions, increased vascular permeability, microaneurysms, and finally, EC detachment are the main features of DR. In this scenario, a pivotal role is played by the extensive loss of PCs. Based on previous results, the aim of this study was to assess possible beneficial effects exerted by adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and their pericyte-like differentiated phenotype (P-ASCs) on human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) in high glucose conditions (25 mM glucose, HG). P-ASCs were more able to preserve BRB integrity than ASCs in terms of (a) increased transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER); (b) increased expression of adherens junction and tight junction proteins (VE-cadherin and ZO-1); (c) reduction in mRNA levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and MMP-9; (d) reduction in the angiogenic factor VEGF and in fibrotic TGF-β1. Moreover, P-ASCs counteracted the HG-induced activation of the pro-inflammatory phospho-ERK1/2/phospho-cPLA2/COX-2 pathway. Finally, crosstalk between HRECs and ASCs or P-ASCs based on the PDGF-B/PDGFR-β axis at the mRNA level is described herein. Thus, P-ASCs might be considered valuable candidates for therapeutic approaches aimed at countering BRB disruption in DR.
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17
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Reddy SK, Ballal AR, Shailaja S, Seetharam RN, Raghu CH, Sankhe R, Pai K, Tender T, Mathew M, Aroor A, Shetty AK, Adiga S, Devi V, Muttigi MS, Upadhya D. Small extracellular vesicle-loaded bevacizumab reduces the frequency of intravitreal injection required for diabetic retinopathy. Theranostics 2023; 13:2241-2255. [PMID: 37153730 PMCID: PMC10157735 DOI: 10.7150/thno.78426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is associated with retinal neovascularization, hard exudates, inflammation, oxidative stress and cell death, leading to vision loss. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (Anti-VEGF) therapy through repeated intravitreal injections is an established treatment for reducing VEGF levels in the retina for inhibiting neovascularization and leakage of hard exudates to prevent vision loss. Although anti-VEGF therapy has several clinical benefits, its monthly injection potentially causes devastating ocular complications, including trauma, intraocular hemorrhage, retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, etc. Methods: As mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) demonstrated safety in clinical studies, we have tested the efficacy of MSC-derived small EVs (MSC-sEVs) loaded anti-VEGF drug bevacizumab in a rat model of DR. Results: The study identified a clinically significant finding that sEV loaded with bevacizumab reduces the frequency of intravitreal injection required for treating diabetic retinopathy. The sustained effect is observed from the reduced levels of VEGF, exudates and leukostasis for more than two months following intravitreal injection of sEV loaded with bevacizumab, while bevacizumab alone could maintain reduced levels for about one month. Furthermore, retinal cell death was consistently lower in this period than only bevacizumab. Conclusion: This study provided significant evidence for the prolonged benefits of sEVs as a drug delivery system. Also, EV-mediated drug delivery systems could be considered for clinical application of retinal diseases as they maintain vitreous clarity in the light path due to their composition being similar to cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivakumar K Reddy
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Abhijna R Ballal
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - S Shailaja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Raviraja N Seetharam
- Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Chandrashekar H Raghu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Runali Sankhe
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Kanthilatha Pai
- Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Tenzin Tender
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Mary Mathew
- Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Annayya Aroor
- Divison of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Ashok K Shetty
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Shalini Adiga
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Vasudha Devi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Manjunatha S Muttigi
- Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Dinesh Upadhya
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Dinesh Upadhya, Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India. ; Phone: +91 820 2923611; Total word count: 9923
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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: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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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19
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Jia Y, Lin Q, Xiao Y, Zhou X, Zou H, Yang C. Are we overlooking the neurodegeneration in the early stage of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus without Visual Impairment or Diabetic Retinopathy: is it probably occurred before retinal vasculature dysfunction? Curr Eye Res 2022; 48:433-440. [PMID: 36420789 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2152056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using electrophysiology (ERG) to investigate the early alterations of retinal function in diabetic children and adolescents without diabetic retinopathy (DR) or visual impairment (VI). METHODS We recorded and compared the data of full-field flicker ERGs between 59 normal subjects and 60 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) from the Children's Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai. RESULTS In both groups, patients with diabetes and healthy controls were matched for age, gender, weight, height, BMI, intraocular pressure (IOP), and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Among the parameters of the outcomes of ERG, the implicit time in eyes in DM patients was significantly prolonged compared to normal eyes (p = .008, 16 Td-s; p = .000, 32 Td-s). In the case group, we found significantly positive correlation between implicit time and BMI (p < .05), as well as implicit time and axial length (AL). CONCLUSIONS The study reveals that the dysfunction of retina in DM children can be detected with ERGs. It also shows that hyperglycemia has an impact on the occurrence of neurodegeneration in the early stage of DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiurong Lin
- Shanghai Eye Diseases Prevention & Treatment Center, Shanghai Eye Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haidong Zou
- Shanghai Eye Diseases Prevention & Treatment Center, Shanghai Eye Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenhao Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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20
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Li Y, Lu S, Zhang Y, Li J, Xiong L. High-Resolution Imaging of the Ocular Vasculature of Conjunctivitis in Mice Using Highly Bright Polymer Dots. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200978. [PMID: 36027786 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Ocular diseases are mainly caused by vascular aberrations in the eye, and accurate imaging and analysis of the ocular vascular structure is crucial. In this study, poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-alt-benzothiadiazole) (PFBT) polymer dots (Pdots), with the advantages of easy synthesis, high brightness, and low toxicity, are used as nanoprobes to perform high-resolution imaging of the vasculature of the eyeball and optic nerve. Moreover, rapid imaging of the choroidal microvessels is carried out by stereoscopic fluorescence microscopy with a resolution of up to 1.6 µm. The comprehensive 3D vascular information of retinal aorta and optic nerve microvessels is obtained by combining tissue clearing and multiphoton microscopy. In addition, the vascular density of Schlemm's canal and iris blood vessels is compared between the conjunctivitis mice and the normal mice. These results suggest that PFBT Pdots have great application potential in the fast and accurate imaging of ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqiao Li
- Shanghai Med-X Engineering Center for Medical Equipment and Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Shuting Lu
- Shanghai Med-X Engineering Center for Medical Equipment and Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Yufan Zhang
- Shanghai Med-X Engineering Center for Medical Equipment and Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Jingru Li
- Shanghai Med-X Engineering Center for Medical Equipment and Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
| | - Liqin Xiong
- Shanghai Med-X Engineering Center for Medical Equipment and Technology, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, P. R. China
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21
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Xie E, Nadeem U, Xie B, D’Souza M, Sulakhe D, Skondra D. Using Computational Drug-Gene Analysis to Identify Novel Therapeutic Candidates for Retinal Neuroprotection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012648. [PMID: 36293505 PMCID: PMC9604082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012648] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal cell death is responsible for irreversible vision loss in many retinal disorders. No commercially approved treatments are currently available to attenuate retinal cell loss and preserve vision. We seek to identify chemicals/drugs with thoroughly-studied biological functions that possess neuroprotective effects in the retina using a computational bioinformatics approach. We queried the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) to identify genes associated with retinal neuroprotection. Enrichment analysis was performed using ToppGene to identify compounds related to the identified genes. This analysis constructs a Pharmacome from multiple drug-gene interaction databases to predict compounds with statistically significant associations to genes involved in retinal neuroprotection. Compounds with known deleterious effects (e.g., asbestos, ethanol) or with no clinical indications (e.g., paraquat, ozone) were manually filtered. We identified numerous drug/chemical classes associated to multiple genes implicated in retinal neuroprotection using a systematic computational approach. Anti-diabetics, lipid-lowering medicines, and antioxidants are among the treatments anticipated by this analysis, and many of these drugs could be readily repurposed for retinal neuroprotection. Our technique serves as an unbiased tool that can be utilized in the future to lead focused preclinical and clinical investigations for complex processes such as neuroprotection, as well as a wide range of other ocular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Xie
- Chicago Medical School at Rosalind, Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Urooba Nadeem
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Bingqing Xie
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mark D’Souza
- Duchossois Family Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dinanath Sulakhe
- Duchossois Family Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dimitra Skondra
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Correspondence:
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22
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Fico E, Rosso P, Triaca V, Segatto M, Lambiase A, Tirassa P. NGF Prevents Loss of TrkA/VEGFR2 Cells, and VEGF Isoform Dysregulation in the Retina of Adult Diabetic Rats. Cells 2022; 11:cells11203246. [PMID: 36291113 PMCID: PMC9600509 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the factors involved in diabetic retinopathy (DR), nerve growth factor (NGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) have been shown to affect both neuronal survival and vascular function, suggesting that their crosstalk might influence DR outcomes. To address this question, the administration of eye drops containing NGF (ed-NGF) to adult Sprague Dawley rats receiving streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneal injection was used as an experimental paradigm to investigate NGF modulation of VEGFA and its receptor VEGFR2 expression. We show that ed-NGF treatment prevents the histological and vascular alterations in STZ retina, VEGFR2 expression decreased in GCL and INL, and preserved the co-expression of VEGFR2 and NGF-tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA) receptor in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The WB analysis confirmed the NGF effect on VEGFR2 expression and activation, and showed a recovery of VEGF isoform dysregulation by suppressing STZ-induced VEGFA121 expression. Reduction in inflammatory and pro-apoptotic intracellular signals were also found in STZ+NGF retina. These findings suggest that ed-NGF administration might favor neuroretina protection, and in turn counteract the vascular impairment by regulating VEGFR2 and/or VEGFA isoform expression during the early stages of the disease. The possibility that an increase in the NGF availability might contribute to the switch from the proangiogenic/apoptotic to the neuroprotective action of VEGF is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fico
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.F.); (P.T.)
| | - Pamela Rosso
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Triaca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), International Campus A. Buzzati Traverso, Via E. Ramarini 32, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy
| | - Alessandro Lambiase
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Tirassa
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.F.); (P.T.)
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23
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Liu C, Dong W, Lv Z, Kong L, Ren X. Thioredoxin-interacting protein in diabetic retinal neurodegeneration: A novel potential therapeutic target for diabetic retinopathy. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:957667. [PMID: 36017183 PMCID: PMC9396221 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.957667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and has been considered a microvascular disease for a long time. However, recent evidence suggests that diabetic retinal neurodegeneration (DRN), which manifests as neuronal apoptosis, a decrease in optic nerve axons, and reactive gliosis, occurs prior to retinal microvascular alterations. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is an endogenous inhibitor of thioredoxin (Trx), and it acts by inhibiting its reducing capacity, thereby promoting cellular oxidative stress. In addition, it participates in regulating multiple signaling pathways as a member of the α-arrestin family of proteins. Accumulating evidence suggests that TXNIP is upregulated in diabetes and plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiological process of DR. In this review, we summarized the role of TXNIP in DRN, aiming to provide evidence for DR treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhi Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wenkang Dong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Zhengshuai Lv
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: Zhengshuai Lv,
| | - Li Kong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Li Kong,
| | - Xiang Ren
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Xiang Ren,
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24
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Tumor necrosis factor-α and matrix metalloproteinase-9 cooperatively exacerbate neurovascular degeneration in the neonatal rat retina. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 390:173-187. [PMID: 35895162 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03670-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α contribute to the pathogenesis of several ocular diseases. Previous studies have shown that MMP-9 activation plays an important role in capillary degeneration in injured retinas. In this study, we aimed to determine the roles of TNF-α in capillary degeneration and MMP-9 activation in the injured retina. In rats, retinal injury was induced by intravitreal injection of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA, 200 nmol) at postnatal day 7. We examined (1) the effects of blocking MMP-9 and TNF-α signaling pathway on capillary degeneration, (2) changes in protein levels and distribution of MMP-9 and TNF-α, and (3) the interaction between MMP-9 and TNF-α in regulating the expression level of each protein in retinas of NMDA-injected eyes. Intravitreal injection of GM6001, an MMP inhibitor, or TNF-α neutralizing antibody (anti-TNF-α Ab) attenuated capillary degeneration in retinas of NMDA-injected eyes. Protein levels of TNF-α increased 2 h after NMDA injection, whereas those of MMP-9 increased 4 h after the injection. Anti-TNF-α Ab suppressed activation of MMP-9 in retinas of NMDA-injected eyes, whereas GM6001 diminished the TNF-α protein expression. Incubation of recombinant TNF-α with supernatants of homogenized retina increased protein levels and activity of MMP-9. These results suggest that TNF-α and MMP-9 collaboratively increase their expression levels in the retina following neurodegeneration, thus leading to retinal capillary degeneration. The cooperative interaction between MMP-9 and TNF-α could be involved in the exacerbation of retinal neurovascular degeneration.
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Santos FM, Mesquita J, Castro-de-Sousa JP, Ciordia S, Paradela A, Tomaz CT. Vitreous Humor Proteome: Targeting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Neurodegeneration in Vitreoretinal Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030505. [PMID: 35326156 PMCID: PMC8944522 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is defined as an unbalance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants, as evidenced by an increase in reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species production over time. It is important in the pathophysiology of retinal disorders such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy, which are the focus of this article. Although the human organism’s defense mechanisms correct autoxidation caused by endogenous or exogenous factors, this may be insufficient, causing an imbalance in favor of excessive ROS production or a weakening of the endogenous antioxidant system, resulting in molecular and cellular damage. Furthermore, modern lifestyles and environmental factors contribute to increased chemical exposure and stress induction, resulting in oxidative stress. In this review, we discuss the current information about oxidative stress and the vitreous proteome with a special focus on vitreoretinal diseases. Additionally, we explore therapies using antioxidants in an attempt to rescue the body from oxidation, restore balance, and maximize healthy body function, as well as new investigational therapies that have shown significant therapeutic potential in preclinical studies and clinical trial outcomes, along with their goals and strategic approaches to combat oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Milhano Santos
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; or (J.P.C.-d.-S.)
- Unidad de Proteomica, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.P.)
- C4-UBI, Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6200-501 Covilhã, Portugal
- Correspondence: (F.M.S.); (C.T.T.); Tel.: +351-275-319-700 (C.T.T.)
| | - Joana Mesquita
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; or (J.P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - João Paulo Castro-de-Sousa
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; or (J.P.C.-d.-S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Sergio Ciordia
- Unidad de Proteomica, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Alberto Paradela
- Unidad de Proteomica, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Cândida Teixeira Tomaz
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; or (J.P.C.-d.-S.)
- C4-UBI, Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6200-501 Covilhã, Portugal
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
- Correspondence: (F.M.S.); (C.T.T.); Tel.: +351-275-319-700 (C.T.T.)
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26
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Trotta MC, Gesualdo C, Petrillo F, Cavasso G, Corte AD, D'Amico G, Hermenean A, Simonelli F, Rossi S. Serum Iba-1, GLUT5, and TSPO in Patients With Diabetic Retinopathy: New Biomarkers for Early Retinal Neurovascular Alterations? A Pilot Study. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:16. [PMID: 35285861 PMCID: PMC8934554 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.3.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study explored the possibility of highlighting early retinal neurovascular alterations of diabetic retinopathy (DR) by monitoring in DR patients the serum levels of microglial biomarkers ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba-1), glucose transporter 5 (GLUT5), and translocator protein (TSPO), along with serum changes of the endothelial dysfunction marker arginase-1. Methods Serum markers were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 50 patients: 12 non-diabetic subjects, 14 diabetic patients without DR, 13 patients with non-proliferative DR (NPDR), and 11 patients with proliferative DR (PDR). The results were correlated with hyperreflective retinal spots (HRS), observed with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Results Although HRS were absent in diabetic patients without DR, NPDR patients showed an average of 4 ± 1 HRS, whereas the highest presence was detected in PDR patients, with 8 ± 1 HRS (P < 0.01 vs. NPDR). HRS were positively correlated (P < 0.01) with serum levels of arginase-1 (r = 0.91), Iba-1 (r = 0.96), GLUT5 (r = 0.94), and TSPO (r = 0.88). Moreover, serum proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines showed a positive correlation (P < 0.01) with HRS number and the serum markers analyzed. Conclusions Serum markers of microglial activation positively correlate with retinal HRS in NPDR and PDR patients. Translational Relevance These data corroborate the possibility of highlighting early retinal neurovascular changes due to diabetes by monitoring circulating microglial markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giancuomo Cavasso
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Della Corte
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanbattista D'Amico
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Anca Hermenean
- "Aurel Ardelean" Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
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Collin GB, Shi L, Yu M, Akturk N, Charette JR, Hyde LF, Weatherly SM, Pera MF, Naggert JK, Peachey NS, Nishina PM, Krebs MP. A Splicing Mutation in Slc4a5 Results in Retinal Detachment and Retinal Pigment Epithelium Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2220. [PMID: 35216333 PMCID: PMC8875008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fluid and solute transporters of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are core components of the outer blood-retinal barrier. Characterizing these transporters and their role in retinal homeostasis may provide insights into ocular function and disease. Here, we describe RPE defects in tvrm77 mice, which exhibit hypopigmented patches in the central retina. Mapping and nucleotide sequencing of tvrm77 mice revealed a disrupted 5' splice donor sequence in Slc4a5, a sodium bicarbonate cotransporter gene. Slc4a5 expression was reduced 19.7-fold in tvrm77 RPE relative to controls, and alternative splice variants were detected. SLC4A5 was localized to the Golgi apparatus of cultured human RPE cells and in apical and basal membranes. Fundus imaging, optical coherence tomography, microscopy, and electroretinography (ERG) of tvrm77 mice revealed retinal detachment, hypopigmented patches corresponding to neovascular lesions, and retinal folds. Detachment worsened and outer nuclear layer thickness decreased with age. ERG a- and b-wave response amplitudes were initially normal but declined in older mice. The direct current ERG fast oscillation and light peak were reduced in amplitude at all ages, whereas other RPE-associated responses were unaffected. These results link a new Slc4a5 mutation to subretinal fluid accumulation and altered light-evoked RPE electrophysiological responses, suggesting that SLC4A5 functions at the outer blood-retinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayle B. Collin
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Lanying Shi
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Minzhong Yu
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (M.Y.); (N.S.P.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Nurten Akturk
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Jeremy R. Charette
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Lillian F. Hyde
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Sonia M. Weatherly
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Martin F. Pera
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Jürgen K. Naggert
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Neal S. Peachey
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (M.Y.); (N.S.P.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Research Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Patsy M. Nishina
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
| | - Mark P. Krebs
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; (G.B.C.); (L.S.); (N.A.); (J.R.C.); (L.F.H.); (S.M.W.); (M.F.P.); (J.K.N.)
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28
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Levine ES, Moult EM, Greig EC, Zhao Y, Pramil V, Gendelman I, Alibhai AY, Baumal CR, Witkin AJ, Duker JS, Fujimoto JG, Waheed NK. MULTISCALE CORRELATION OF MICROVASCULAR CHANGES ON OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY WITH RETINAL SENSITIVITY IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY. Retina 2022; 42:357-368. [PMID: 34510129 PMCID: PMC8892687 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess global, zonal, and local correlations between vessel density changes measured by optical coherence tomography angiography and retinal sensitivity measured by microperimetry across diabetic retinopathy severity. METHODS Diabetic patients and nondiabetic controls underwent optical coherence tomography angiography imaging and microperimetry testing. Pearson's correlation was used to assess associations between average sensitivity and skeletonized vessel density (SVD) or foveal avascular zone area centrally. Linear mixed effects modeling was used to assess relationships between local SVD measurements and their spatially corresponding retinal sensitivity measurements. RESULTS Thirty-nine eyes from 39 participants were imaged. In all slabs, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between retinal sensitivities and SVDs on both global and zonal scales. No statistically significant correlation was found between central retinal sensitivities and the foveal avascular zone areas. Assessment of 1,136 spatially paired retinal sensitivity and SVD measurements revealed a statistically significant local relationship; this seemed to be driven by eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy that had reduced retinal sensitivities. CONCLUSION This study supports positive correlations between SVD and retinal sensitivity at global and zonal spatial scales in diabetic eyes. However, our analysis did not find evidence of statistically significant correlations between retinal sensitivity and SVD on a local scale until advanced diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily S. Levine
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric M. Moult
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eugenia Custo Greig
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yi Zhao
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Varsha Pramil
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isaac Gendelman
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - A. Yasin Alibhai
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caroline R. Baumal
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andre J. Witkin
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jay S. Duker
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James G. Fujimoto
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nadia K. Waheed
- New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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29
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Pöstyéni E, Ganczer A, Kovács-Valasek A, Gabriel R. Relevance of Peptide Homeostasis in Metabolic Retinal Degenerative Disorders: Curative Potential in Genetically Modified Mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:808315. [PMID: 35095518 PMCID: PMC8793341 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.808315] [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: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian retina contains approximately 30 neuropeptides that are synthetized by different neuronal cell populations, glia, and the pigmented epithelium. The presence of these neuropeptides leaves a mark on normal retinal molecular processes and physiology, and they are also crucial in fighting various pathologies (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, ischemia, age-related pathologies, glaucoma) because of their protective abilities. Retinal pathologies of different origin (metabolic, genetic) are extensively investigated by genetically manipulated in vivo mouse models that help us gain a better understanding of the molecular background of these pathomechanisms. These models offer opportunities to manipulate gene expression in different cell types to help reveal their roles in the preservation of retinal health or identify malfunction during diseases. In order to assess the current status of transgenic technologies available, we have conducted a literature survey focused on retinal disorders of metabolic origin, zooming in on the role of retinal neuropeptides in diabetic retinopathy and ischemia. First, we identified those neuropeptides that are most relevant to retinal pathologies in humans and the two clinically most relevant models, mice and rats. Then we continued our analysis with metabolic disorders, examining neuropeptide-related pathways leading to systemic or cellular damage and rescue. Last but not least, we reviewed the available literature on genetically modified mouse strains to understand how the manipulation of a single element of any given pathway (e.g., signal molecules, receptors, intracellular signaling pathways) could lead either to the worsening of disease conditions or, more frequently, to substantial improvements in retinal health. Most attention was given to studies which reported successful intervention against specific disorders. For these experiments, a detailed evaluation will be given and the possible role of converging intracellular pathways will be discussed. Using these converging intracellular pathways, curative effects of peptides could potentially be utilized in fighting metabolic retinal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alma Ganczer
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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30
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Parravano M, Allegrini D, Carnevali A, Costanzo E, Giannaccare G, Giorno P, Scorcia V, Spedicato GA, Varano M, Romano MR. Effectiveness of a Hydrophilic Curcumin-Based Formulation in Coadjuvating the Therapeutic Effect of Intravitreal Dexamethasone in Subjects With Diabetic Macular Edema. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:726104. [PMID: 35058773 PMCID: PMC8763693 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.726104] [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: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study evaluates if the addition of a curcumin formulation with a polyvinylpyrrolidone-hydrophilic carrier (CHC; Diabec®, Alfa Intes, Italy) to intravitreal injections of dexamethasone (DEX-IVT) can affect the morphological retinal characteristics, extending the steroid re-treatment period in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out in DME patients, randomly assigned to receive DEX-IVT or DEX-IVT and a CHC. The evaluation of the mean difference of central retinal thickness (CRT) was the primary aim. Secondary aims were the evaluations of best-corrected visual acuity, differences in the predetermined retinal layer thickness, the number/time of re-treatment, and the assessment of safety. Results: A total of 73 DME patients were included (35 in the control group and 38 in the combined therapy group). In both the control and combined therapy groups, the mean CRT change from T0 to the 6 months’ evaluation was significant (p = 0.00). The mean CRT result was significantly different at month 4 (p = 0.01) between the control and combined therapy groups, with a greater reduction in the combined therapy group, in particular, in patients with ≤10 years of diabetes. A trend of CRT reduction in the combined therapy group has been observed also considering patients with subfoveal neuroretinal detachment. In addition, we observed that the reduction of inner retinal layer thickness was greater in the combination group, in comparison with controls. Conclusion: The combination of a CHC to DEX-IVT is a promising therapeutic option in case of DME, in particular, for patients with early-stage diabetes and with an inflammatory phenotype. Further studies will be necessary to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adriano Carnevali
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Scorcia
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Mario R Romano
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bergamo, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
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31
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Canovai A, Amato R, Melecchi A, Dal Monte M, Rusciano D, Bagnoli P, Cammalleri M. Preventive Efficacy of an Antioxidant Compound on Blood Retinal Barrier Breakdown and Visual Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:811818. [PMID: 35046830 PMCID: PMC8762314 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.811818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In diabetic retinopathy (DR), high blood glucose drives chronic oxidative stress and inflammation that trigger alterations of the neurovascular balance finally resulting in vascular abnormalities and retinal cell death, which converge towards altered electroretinogram (ERG). In the last years, a growing body of preclinical evidence has suggested that nutrients with anti-inflammatory/antioxidant properties can be able to hamper DR progression since its very early stages. In the present study, we used a streptozotocin-induced rat model of DR, which mimics most aspects of the early stages of human DR, to test the preventive efficacy of a novel compound containing cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), verbascoside and zinc as nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Western blot, immunofluorescence and electroretinographic analyses demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition of oxidative stress- and inflammation-related mechanisms, with a significant counterpart in preventing molecular mechanisms leading to DR-associated vasculopathy and its related retinal damage. Preventive efficacy of the compound on dysfunctional a- and b-waves was also demonstrated by electroretinography. The present demonstration that natural compounds, possibly as a consequence of vascular rescue following ameliorated oxidative stress and inflammation, may prevent the apoptotic cascade leading to ERG dysfunction, adds further relevance to the potential application of antioxidants as a preventive therapy to counteract DR progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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32
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Wang N, Wei L, Liu D, Zhang Q, Xia X, Ding L, Xiong S. Identification and Validation of Autophagy-Related Genes in Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:867600. [PMID: 35574010 PMCID: PMC9098829 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.867600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes, which is associated with damage of blood-retinal barrier and ischemia of retinal vasculature. It devastates visual acuity due to leakage of retinal vessels and aberrant pathological angiogenesis in diabetic patients. The etiology of DR is complex, accumulated studies have shown that autophagy plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DR, but its specific mechanism needs to be further studied. METHODS This study chose the online Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) microarray expression profiling dataset GSE146615 to carry on the research. Autophagy-related genes that were potentially differentially expressed in DR were screened by R software. Then, the differentially expressed autophagy-related genes were analyzed by correlation analysis, tissue-specific gene expression, gene-ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Finally, retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19) incubated with high glucose (HG) was used to mimic the DR model, and the mRNA level of key genes was verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in vitro. RESULTS A total of 23 differentially expressed autophagy-related genes (9 up-regulated genes and 14 down-regulated genes) were identified by differential expression analysis. The analysis of tissue-specific gene expression showed that these differentially expressed autophagy-related genes were enriched in the retina. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that differentially expressed autophagy-related genes were significantly enriched in autophagy-related pathways such as regulation of autophagy and macroautophagy. Then 10 hub genes were identified by PPI network analysis and construction of key modules. Finally, qRT-PCR confirmed that the expression of MAPK3 in the DR model was consistent with the results of bioinformatics analysis of mRNA chip. CONCLUSION Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified 23 potential DR autophagy-related genes, among which the down-regulated expression of MAPK3 may affect the occurrence and development of DR by regulating autophagy. It provides a novel insight into the pathogenesis of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Linfeng Wei
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, China
| | - Die Liu
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Quyan Zhang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lexi Ding
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Siqi Xiong, ; Lexi Ding,
| | - Siqi Xiong
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Siqi Xiong, ; Lexi Ding,
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Li J, Zhou Y, Chen F, Li Y, Zhou R, Wu C, Yu H, Lin Z, Shi C, Zheng G, Shao Y, Chen Q, Lu F, Shen M. Visual acuity is correlated with ischemia and neurodegeneration in patients with early stages of diabetic retinopathy. EYE AND VISION 2021; 8:38. [PMID: 34666831 PMCID: PMC8527732 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-021-00260-4] [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: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Purpose We investigated the effects of retinal ischemia, neurodegeneration, and subclinical edema on best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods Ischemia was evaluated by the microvascular parameters measured by optical coherence tomography angiography. Neurodegeneration and subclinical edema were identified by the intraretinal layer thickness obtained by optical coherence tomography. Eyes with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (n = 132) from 89 patients were analyzed. Eyes were classified as having normal BCVA (n = 88 [66.7%], Snellen equivalent ≥ 20/20) or decreased BCVA (n = 44 [33.3%], Snellen equivalent < 20/20). The prevalence of ischemia, neurodegeneration, and subclinical edema was explored in patients with and without decreased BCVA, and correlations between BCVA and these pathological pathways were determined. Results Vessel density in the deep retinal capillary plexus (DRCP) and thickness of ganglion cell layer plus inner plexiform layer (GCL-IPL) were significantly lower in eyes with decreased BCVA compared with eyes with normal BCVA (both P < 0.05). In the final multiple regression predictive model, age, DRCP vessel density, and GCL-IPL thickness (all P ≤ 0.044) were predictors of BCVA. DRCP vessel density and GCL-IPL thickness have an interactive effect on visual acuity. The proportions of ischemia and neurodegeneration were significantly higher in eyes with decreased BCVA than in eyes with normal BCVA (P = 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively). Conclusion During the natural course of the early stages of DR, ischemia and neurodegeneration were the main disease pathways associated with visual acuity, and the mechanisms varied among patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40662-021-00260-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingzi Li
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoming Wu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huankai Yu
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiyang Lin
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ce Shi
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Gu Zheng
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yilei Shao
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Chen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fan Lu
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Meixiao Shen
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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Jiewei Y, Jingjing Z, Jingjing X, Guilan Z. Downregulation of circ-UBAP2 ameliorates oxidative stress and dysfunctions of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hRMECs) via miR-589-5p/EGR1 axis. Bioengineered 2021; 12:7508-7518. [PMID: 34608841 PMCID: PMC8806621 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1979440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Hsa_circ_0001850_circ_0001850 (circ-UBAP2) is reported to be upregulated in diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, its role in high glucose (HG)-triggered oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction in DR is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential of circUBAP2 in DR. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA), and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) were analyzed using the corresponding kits. Western blotting was performed to detect the protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and SOD-1. MTT assay was conducted to assess cell viability. A transwell migration assay was used to determine the migration ability of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hRMECs). A Matrigel tube formation assay was performed to analyze tube formation. The targeting relationships were verified using a luciferase reporter assay. We found that the circ-UBAP2 expression increased in DR patients and HG-treated hRMECs. Downregulation of circ-UBAP2 ameliorated HG-induced oxidative stress and dysfunction of hRMECs. Mechanistically, circ-UBAP2 sponges miR-589-5p, which is downregulated under hyperglycemic conditions. In addition, EGR1 was confirmed to be a target gene of miR-589-5p and was overexpressed in HG-treated hRMECs. In addition, EGR1 reversed the effects of miR-589-5p and induced oxidative stress and dysfunction in hRMECs. Taken together, knockdown of circ-UBAP2 relieved HG-induced oxidative stress and dysfunctions of the hRMECs through the miR-589-5p/EGR1 axis, which may offer a promising therapeutic target for DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiewei
- Ophthalmology Department, Jiujiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhou Jingjing
- Ophthalmology Department, Jiujiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xue Jingjing
- Ophthalmology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhang Guilan
- Ophthalmology Department, The Third Clinical Medical College of China Three Gorges University, Gezhouba central hospital of sinopharm, Yichang City, Hubei Province, China
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Amato R, Rossino MG, Cammalleri M, Timperio AM, Fanelli G, Dal Monte M, Pucci L, Casini G. The Potential of Lisosan G as a Possible Treatment for Glaucoma. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:719951. [PMID: 34393798 PMCID: PMC8355587 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.719951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lisosan G (LG), a fermented powder obtained from whole grains, is a nutritional supplement containing a variety of metabolites with documented antioxidant properties. We have recently demonstrated that orally administered LG protects diabetic rodent retinas from oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, blood-retinal barrier disruption, and functional damage. Here, we investigated whether LG may exert protective effects in a model of glaucoma and measured the amounts of selected LG components that reach the retina after oral LG administration. Six-month-old DBA/2J mice were given an aqueous LG solution in place of drinking water for 2 mo. During the 2 mo of treatment with LG, the intraocular pressure (IOP) was monitored and the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) functional activity was recorded with pattern-electroretinography (PERG). At the end of the 2-mo period, the expression of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers was measured with qPCR, and RGC survival or macroglial activation were assessed with immunofluorescence. Alternatively, LG was administered by gavage and the concentrations of four of the main LG components (nicotinamide, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and quercetin) were measured in the retinas in the following 24 h using mass spectrometry. LG treatment in DBA/2J mice did not influence IOP, but it affected RGC function since PERG amplitude was increased and PERG latency was decreased with respect to untreated DBA/2J mice. This improvement of RGC function was concomitant with a significant decrease of both oxidative stress and inflammation marker expression, of RGC loss, and of macroglial activation. All four LG metabolites were found in the retina, although with different proportions with respect to the amount in the dose of administered LG, and with different temporal profiles in the 24 h following administration. These findings are consistent with neuroenhancing and neuroprotective effects of LG in glaucoma that are likely to derive from its powerful antioxidant properties. The co-occurrence of different metabolites in LG may provide an added value to their beneficial effects and indicate LG as a basis for the potential treatment of a variety of retinal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Timperio
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Fanelli
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Pucci
- National Research Council, Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Nutraceutical Strategy to Counteract Eye Neurodegeneration and Oxidative Stress in Drosophila melanogaster Fed with High-Sugar Diet. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10081197. [PMID: 34439445 PMCID: PMC8388935 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10081197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a common feature of damaged retinal neurons in diabetic retinopathy, and antioxidants may exert both preventive and therapeutic action. To evaluate the beneficial and antioxidant properties of food supplementation with Lisosan G, a powder of bran and germ of grain (Triticum aestivum) obtained by fermentation with selected lactobacillus and natural yeast strains, we used an in vivo model of hyperglycemia-induced retinal damage, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster fed with high-sucrose diet. Lisosan G positively affected the visual system of hyperglycemic flies at structural/functional level, decreased apoptosis, and reactivated protective autophagy at the retina internal network. Also, in high sucrose-fed Drosophila, Lisosan G reduced the levels of brain ROS and retina peroxynitrite. The analysis of oxidative stress-related metabolites suggested 7,8-dihydrofolate, uric acid, dihydroorotate, γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteine, allantoin, cysteinyl-glycine, and quinolate as key mediators of Lisosan G-induced inhibition of neuronal ROS, along with the upregulation of glutathione system. Of note, Lisosan G may impact oxidative stress and the ensuing retinal cell death, also independently from autophagy, although the autophagy-ROS cross-talk is critical. This study demonstrated that the continuous supplementation with the alimentary integrator Lisosan G exerts a robust and multifaceted antioxidant effect on retinal neurons, thus providing efficacious neuroprotection of hyperglycemic eye.
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Byrne EM, Llorián-Salvador M, Tang M, Margariti A, Chen M, Xu H. IL-17A Damages the Blood-Retinal Barrier through Activating the Janus Kinase 1 Pathway. Biomedicines 2021; 9:831. [PMID: 34356895 PMCID: PMC8301352 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood-retinal barrier (BRB) dysfunction underlies macular oedema in many sight-threatening conditions, including diabetic macular oedema, neovascular age-related macular degeneration and uveoretinitis. Inflammation plays an important role in BRB dysfunction. This study aimed to understand the role of the inflammatory cytokine IL-17A in BRB dysfunction and the mechanism involved. Human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell line ARPE19 and murine brain endothelial line bEnd.3 were cultured on transwell membranes to model the outer BRB and inner BRB, respectively. IL-17A treatment (3 days in bEnd.3 cells and 6 days in ARPE19 cells) disrupted the distribution of claudin-5 in bEnd.3 cells and ZO-1 in ARPE19 cells, reduced the transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and increased permeability to FITC-tracers in vitro. Intravitreal (20 ng/1 μL/eye) or intravenous (20 ng/g) injection of recombinant IL-17A induced retinal albumin leakage within 48 h in C57BL/6J mice. Mechanistically, IL-17A induced Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) phosphorylation in bEnd.3 but not ARPE19 cells. Blocking JAK1 with Tofacitinib prevented IL-17A-mediated claudin-5 dysmorphia in bEnd.3 cells and reduced albumin leakage in IL-17A-treated mice. Our results suggest that IL-17A can damage the BRB through the activating the JAK1 signaling pathway, and targeting this pathway may be a novel approach to treat inflammation-induced macular oedema.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Heping Xu
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (E.M.B.); (M.L.-S.); (M.T.); (A.M.); (M.C.)
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Amato R, Lazzara F, Chou TH, Romano GL, Cammalleri M, Dal Monte M, Casini G, Porciatti V. Diabetes Exacerbates the Intraocular Pressure-Independent Retinal Ganglion Cells Degeneration in the DBA/2J Model of Glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:9. [PMID: 34232257 PMCID: PMC8267218 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.9.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Glaucoma is a multifactorial disease, causing retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve degeneration. The role of diabetes as a risk factor for glaucoma has been postulated but still not unequivocally demonstrated. The purpose of this study is to clarify the effect of diabetes in the early progression of glaucomatous RGC dysfunction preceding intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation, using the DBA/2J mouse (D2) model of glaucoma. Methods D2 mice were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) obtaining a combined model of diabetes and glaucoma (D2 + STZ). D2 and D2 + STZ mice were monitored for weight, glycemia, and IOP from 3.5 to 6 months of age. In addition, the activity of RGC and outer retina were assessed using pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and flash electroretinogram (FERG), respectively. At the end point, RGC density and astrogliosis were evaluated in flat mounted retinas. In addition, Müller cell reactivity was evaluated in retinal cross-sections. Finally, the expression of inflammation and oxidative stress markers were analyzed. Results IOP was not influenced by time or diabetes. In contrast, RGC activity resulted progressively decreased in the D2 group independently from IOP elevation and outer retinal dysfunction. Diabetes exacerbated RGC dysfunction, which resulted independent from variation in IOP and outer retinal activity. Diabetic retinas displayed decreased RGC density and increased glial reactivity given by an increment in oxidative stress and inflammation. Conclusions Diabetes can act as an IOP-independent risk factor for the early progression of glaucoma promoting oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated RGC dysfunction, glial reactivity, and cellular death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Amato
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Francesca Lazzara
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Tsung-Han Chou
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences Department, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
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Fábián E, Horváth G, Opper B, Atlasz T, Tóth G, Reglődi D. PACAP is Protective Against Cellular Stress in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10162-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe integrity of the innermost, pigment epithelial layer of the retina is crucial for the photoreceptor survival and for maintaining the outer blood–retina barrier. In several ocular degenerations, such as diabetic retinopathy or macular edema, the stress caused by various harmful stimuli (hypoxia, oxidative stress, hyperosmosis) lead to severe molecular biological changes in this layer, promoting neovascularization of the retina. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) occurs throughout the whole body, including the eye. It has numerous functions in the retina, including the previously described anti-apoptotic and anti-angiogenic effects in retinal pigment epithelial cells. The aim of this present study was to investigate the influence of PACAP on different stress factors. In accordance with previous findings, PACAP significantly ameliorated the increased Hif1-α levels in hypoxic conditions. In H2O2-induced oxidative stress PACAP had an anti-apoptotic effect, it could decrease the expression of cytochrome-c and p53, while it upregulated the concentration of three antioxidants, namely SOD2, PON2 and thioredoxin. In conclusion, we provided new information on the molecular biological background of the retinoprotective effect of PACAP.
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Tang Y, Tang Q, Wei H, Hu P, Zou D, Liang R, Ling Y. Hub Genes Associated with the Diagnosis of Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:1739-1750. [PMID: 33986612 PMCID: PMC8110263 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s311683] [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: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to identify genes that may be effective in diagnosing or treating diabetic retinopathy (DR), the most common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between DR and DM in GSE146615 dataset. DEGs that were consistently up- or down-regulated under both standard glucose and high glucose conditions were identified as common genes and used to generate a protein-protein interaction network and modules. The module genes were assessed for the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), leading to the identification of hub genes. Differentially methylated probes in GSE76169 were also compared with common DEGs to identify specific methylation markers of DR. Enrichment analysis was used to explore the biological characteristics. The Short Time-series Expression Miner algorithm was used to identify genes that were progressively dysregulated in the sequence: healthy controls < DM < DR. Results A total of 1917 common genes were identified for seven modules. The eight genes with AUC > 0.8 under high glucose and standard glucose conditions were considered as hub genes. The module genes were significantly enriched during vascular smooth muscle cell development and regulation of oxygen metabolism, while 92 methylation markers were involved in the similar terms. Among the progressively dysregulated genes, three intersection genes under both standard glucose and high glucose conditions were found to be module genes and were considered as key genes. Conclusion We identified eight potential DR-specific diagnostic and therapeutic genes, whose abnormal expression can cause oxidative stress, thus favoring the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Haicheng Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinzhang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Donghua Zou
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Rixiong Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Ling
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Nanning, Nanning, Guangxi, 530022, People's Republic of China
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Watanabe K, Asano D, Ushikubo H, Morita A, Mori A, Sakamoto K, Ishii K, Nakahara T. Metformin Protects against NMDA-Induced Retinal Injury through the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094439. [PMID: 33922757 PMCID: PMC8123037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin, an anti-hyperglycemic drug of the biguanide class, exerts positive effects in several non-diabetes-related diseases. In this study, we aimed to examine the protective effects of metformin against N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-induced excitotoxic retinal damage in rats and determine the mechanisms of its protective effects. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (7 to 9 weeks old) were used in this study. Following intravitreal injection of NMDA (200 nmol/eye), the number of neuronal cells in the ganglion cell layer and parvalbumin-positive amacrine cells decreased, whereas the number of CD45-positive leukocytes and Iba1-positive microglia increased. Metformin attenuated these NMDA-induced responses. The neuroprotective effect of metformin was abolished by compound C, an inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). The AMPK activator, AICAR, exerted a neuroprotective effect in NMDA-induced retinal injury. The MEK1/2 inhibitor, U0126, reduced the neuroprotective effect of metformin. These results suggest that metformin protects against NMDA-induced retinal neurotoxicity through activation of the AMPK and MEK/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways. This neuroprotective effect could be partially attributable to the inhibitory effects on inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Watanabe
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
| | - Daiki Asano
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
| | - Hiroko Ushikubo
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
- Center for Pharmaceutical Education, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa 245-0066, Japan
| | - Akane Morita
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
| | - Asami Mori
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Clinical & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharma-Sciences, Teikyo University, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakamoto
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmacology, Department of Clinical & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharma-Sciences, Teikyo University, Tokyo 173-8605, Japan
| | - Kunio Ishii
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
- Center for Pharmaceutical Education, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yokohama University of Pharmacy, Kanagawa 245-0066, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Nakahara
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (K.W.); (D.A.); (H.U.); (A.M.); (A.M.); (K.S.); (K.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +81-3-3444-6205
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Evaluation of the neuronal and microvascular components of the macula in patients with diabetic retinopathy. Doc Ophthalmol 2021; 143:193-205. [PMID: 33861362 DOI: 10.1007/s10633-021-09834-y] [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: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether abnormal retinal microcirculation correlates with retinal neuronal changes in untreated diabetic eyes without macular edema. METHODS This study enrolled 29 diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR), 18 patients with mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), 15 patients with moderate NPDR, 14 patients with severe NPDR, 27 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and 25 healthy control subjects. Pattern electroretinography (PERG) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) tests were performed. RESULTS Differences in the mean values for the area, acircularity index, and perimeter of foveal avascular zone were statistically significant between the healthy control group and the diabetic patients (P < 0.05 for all). P50 and N95 amplitudes were statistically significantly lower in the PDR group compared to diabetic patients without DR, control, and moderate NPDR groups (P < 0.05 for all). The whole retina vessel densities in superficial and deep capillary plexus were lower in the PDR group compared to the diabetic patients without DR and control group (P < 0.05 for all). There were statistically significant positive correlations between the amplitudes of the P50 and N95 waves with the vessel densities. CONCLUSION The existence of significant correlations between PERG and OCT-A parameters in diabetic patients has shown that vascular and neuronal changes in the macula affect each other in diabetic patients.
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Nebbioso M, Lambiase A, Armentano M, Tucciarone G, Sacchetti M, Greco A, Alisi L. Diabetic retinopathy, oxidative stress, and sirtuins: an in depth look in enzymatic patterns and new therapeutic horizons. Surv Ophthalmol 2021; 67:168-183. [PMID: 33864872 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world. DR represents the most common microvascular complication of diabetes, and its incidence is constantly rising. The complex interactions between inflammation, oxidative stress, and the production of free oxygen radicals caused by prolonged exposure to hyperglycemia determine the development of DR. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a recently discovered class of 7 histone deacetylases involved in cellular senescence, regulation of cell cycle, metabolic pathways, and DNA repair. SIRTs participate in the progress of several pathologies such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and metabolic diseases. In DR sirtuins 1,3,5, and 6 play an important role as they regulate the activation of the inflammatory response, insulin sensibility, and both glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. A wide spectrum of direct and indirect activators of SIRTs pathways (e.g., antagomiR, resveratrol, or glycyrrhizin) is currently being developed to treat the inflammatory cascade occurring in DR. We focus on the main metabolic and inflammatory pathways involving SIRTs and DR, as well as recent evidence on SIRTs activators that may be employed as novel therapeutic approaches to DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Nebbioso
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Lambiase
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marta Armentano
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giosuè Tucciarone
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Sacchetti
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovico Alisi
- Department of Sense Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Policlinico Umberto I. Sapienza University of Rome, v. le del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Damian I, Nicoară SD. Correlations between Retinal Arterial Morphometric Parameters and Neurodegeneration in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with No or Mild Diabetic Retinopathy. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:244. [PMID: 33807881 PMCID: PMC8002138 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57030244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: In patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), the neural retina is starting to degenerate before the development of vascular lesions. Our purpose was to investigate the correlation between the retinal arterial morphometric parameters and structural neurodegeneration in patients with type 2 DM with no or mild diabetic retinopathy (DR). Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study including 53 eyes of patients with type 2 DM and 32 eyes of healthy controls. Based on SD-OCT (spectral domain-optical coherence tomography) images, using a micro-densitometry method, we measured the outer and luminal diameter of retinal arteries and calculated the AWT (arterial wall thickness), WLR (wall-to-lumen ratio), and WCSA (wall cross-sectional area). GCL (ganglion cell layer) and RNFL (retinal nerve fiber layer) thickness were analyzed in correlation with the retinal arterial morphometric parameters mentioned above. Results: GCL was thinner in the inner quadrants in the NDR (no DR) group compared to controls (p < 0.05). RAOD (retinal artery outer diameter), RALD (retinal artery lumen diameter), AWT, WLR, and WCSA were similar between groups. A regression model considering age, gender, duration of DM, and HbA1C was carried out. Central GCL thickness was correlated positively with RAOD (coefficient 0.360 per µm, p = 0.011), RALD (coefficient 0.283 per µm, p = 0.050), AWT (coefficient 0.304 per µm, p = 0.029), and WCSA (coefficient 3.90 per µm, p = 0.005). Duration of DM was positively correlated with WCSA (coefficient 0.311 per one year duration of diabetes, p = 0.043). Conclusions: Significant GCL thinning in the inner quadrants preceded the morphological retinal arterial morphometric changes, supporting the neurodegeneration as primary pathogenic mechanism in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Damian
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 V. Babes str., 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Medical Doctoral School, University of Oradea, 1 Universitatii Str., 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Simona Delia Nicoară
- Department of Ophthalmology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 V. Babes str., 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emergency County Hospital Cluj, 3–5 Clinicilor Str., 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Chen J, Shao Y, Sasore T, Moiseyev G, Zhou K, Ma X, Du Y, Ma JX. Interphotoreceptor Retinol-Binding Protein Ameliorates Diabetes-Induced Retinal Dysfunction and Neurodegeneration Through Rhodopsin. Diabetes 2021; 70:788-799. [PMID: 33334874 PMCID: PMC7897347 DOI: 10.2337/db20-0609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Patients with diabetes often experience visual defects before any retinal pathologies are detected. The molecular mechanism for the visual defects in early diabetes has not been elucidated. Our previous study reported that in early diabetic retinopathy (DR), rhodopsin levels were reduced due to impaired 11-cis-retinal regeneration. Interphotoreceptor retinol-binding protein (IRBP) is a visual cycle protein and important for 11-cis-retinal generation. IRBP levels are decreased in the vitreous and retina of DR patients and animal models. To determine the role of IRBP downregulation in the visual defects in early DR, we induced diabetes in transgenic mice overexpressing IRBP in the retina. IRBP overexpression prevented diabetes-induced decline of retinal function. Furthermore, IRBP overexpression also prevented decreases of rhodopsin levels and 11-cis-retinal generation in diabetic mice. Diabetic IRBP transgenic mice also showed ameliorated retinal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and retinal degeneration compared with diabetic wild-type mice. These findings suggest that diabetes-induced IRBP downregulation impairs the regeneration of 11-cis-retinal and rhodopsin, leading to retinal dysfunction in early DR. Furthermore, increased 11-cis-retinal-free opsin constitutively activates the phototransduction pathway, leading to increased oxidative stress and retinal neurodegeneration. Therefore, restored IRBP expression in the diabetic retina may confer a protective effect against retinal degeneration in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianglei Chen
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Yan Shao
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
- Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Eye Institute & School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Tianjin, China
| | - Temmy Sasore
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Gennadiy Moiseyev
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Kelu Zhou
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Xiang Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Yanhong Du
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Jian-Xing Ma
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
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46
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Trotta MC, Gesualdo C, Platania CBM, De Robertis D, Giordano M, Simonelli F, D'Amico M, Drago F, Bucolo C, Rossi S. Circulating miRNAs in diabetic retinopathy patients: Prognostic markers or pharmacological targets? Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 186:114473. [PMID: 33607073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this study we analyzed the expression of circulating miRNAs, in the serum of diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients. Five miRNAs (hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-20a-5p, hsa-miR-20b-5p, hsa-miR-27b-3p and hsa-miR-451a) were validated as biomarkers for stratification of DR stages, from the early non-proliferative (NPDR) to the late proliferative (PDR) phase. Furthermore, circulating levels of these miRNAs correlated with retinal hyper-reflective spots (HRS), assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The number of HRS increased with worsening of DR stages. On the contrary, no significant vascular density differences between NPDR and PDR patients were detected by angio-OCT (OCTA). A post-hoc bioinformatics analysis associated these five miRNAs to target genes belonging to the "Tumor Necrosis Factor alfa signaling" pathway, and several molecules were predicted to modify miRNAs expression. In conclusion, correlation between specific circulating miRNAs and intraretinal hyper-reflective spots was demonstrated, confirming that these miRNAs were validated as prognostic biomarkers, and also as potential pharmacological targets, warranting further clinical evaluation to explore novel therapeutics for diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Gesualdo
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Bianca Maria Platania
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Domenico De Robertis
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Giordano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology, CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology, CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Settimio Rossi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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47
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Catalani E, Silvestri F, Bongiorni S, Taddei AR, Fanelli G, Rinalducci S, De Palma C, Perrotta C, Prantera G, Cervia D. Retinal damage in a new model of hyperglycemia induced by high-sucrose diets. Pharmacol Res 2021; 166:105488. [PMID: 33582248 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Loss of retinal neurons may precede clinical signs of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We studied for the first time the effects of hyperglycemia on the visual system of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster to characterize a model for glucose-induced retinal neurodegeneration, thus complementing more traditional vertebrate systems. Adult flies were fed with increased high-sucrose regimens which did not modify the locomotion ability, muscle phenotype and mobility after 10 days. The increased availability of dietary sucrose induced hyperglycemia and phosphorylation of Akt in fat tissue, without significant effects on adult growth and viability, consistent with the early phase of insulin signaling and a low impact on the overall metabolic profile of flies at short term. Noteworthy, high-sucrose diets significantly decreased Drosophila responsiveness to the light as a consequence of vision defects. Hyperglycemia did not alter the gross anatomical architecture of the external eye phenotype although a progressive damage of photosensitive units was observed. Appreciable levels of cleaved caspase 3 and nitrotyrosine were detected in the internal retina network as well as punctate staining of Light-Chain 3 and p62, and accumulated autophagosomes, indicating apoptotic features, peroxynitrite formation and autophagy turnover defects. In summary, our results in Drosophila support the view that hyperglycemia induced by high-sucrose diets lead to eye defects, apoptosis/autophagy dysregulation, oxidative stress, and visual dysfunctions which are evolutionarily conserved, thus offering a meaningful opportunity of using a simple in vivo model to study the pathophysiology of neuroretinal alterations that develop in patients at the early stages of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Catalani
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Federica Silvestri
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Silvia Bongiorni
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Taddei
- Section of Electron Microscopy, Great Equipment Center, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Fanelli
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Sara Rinalducci
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Clara De Palma
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), Università degli Studi di Milano, via L. Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristiana Perrotta
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco" (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Giorgio Prantera
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Davide Cervia
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-food and Forest Systems (DIBAF), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, largo dell'Università snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy.
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48
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Laíns I, Wang JC, Cui Y, Katz R, Vingopoulos F, Staurenghi G, Vavvas DG, Miller JW, Miller JB. Retinal applications of swept source optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 84:100951. [PMID: 33516833 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The advent of optical coherence tomography (OCT) revolutionized both clinical assessment and research of vitreoretinal conditions. Since then, extraordinary advances have been made in this imaging technology, including the relatively recent development of swept-source OCT (SS-OCT). SS-OCT enables a fast scan rate and utilizes a tunable swept laser, thus enabling the incorporation of longer wavelengths than conventional spectral-domain devices. These features enable imaging of larger areas with reduced motion artifact, and a better visualization of the choroidal vasculature, respectively. Building on the principles of OCT, swept-source OCT has also been applied to OCT angiography (SS-OCTA), thus enabling a non-invasive in depth-resolved imaging of the retinal and choroidal microvasculature. Despite their advantages, the widespread use of SS-OCT and SS-OCTA remains relatively limited. In this review, we summarize the technical details, advantages and limitations of SS-OCT and SS-OCTA, with a particular emphasis on their relevance for the study of retinal conditions. Additionally, we comprehensively review relevant studies performed to date to the study of retinal health and disease, and highlight current gaps in knowledge and opportunities to take advantage of swept source technology to improve our current understanding of many medical and surgical chorioretinal conditions. We anticipate that SS-OCT and SS-OCTA will continue to evolve rapidly, contributing to a paradigm shift to more widespread adoption of new imaging technology to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Laíns
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jay C Wang
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ying Cui
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA; Guangdong Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Raviv Katz
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Filippos Vingopoulos
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Giovanni Staurenghi
- Eye Clinic, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, Italy
| | - Demetrios G Vavvas
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joan W Miller
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John B Miller
- Retina Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Retinal Imaging Lab, Boston, MA, USA.
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49
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Mrugacz M, Bryl A, Zorena K. Retinal Vascular Endothelial Cell Dysfunction and Neuroretinal Degeneration in Diabetic Patients. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030458. [PMID: 33504108 PMCID: PMC7866162 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) has become a vital societal problem as epidemiological studies demonstrate the increasing incidence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Lesions observed in the retina in the course of diabetes, referred to as diabetic retinopathy (DR), are caused by vascular abnormalities and are ischemic in nature. Vascular lesions in diabetes pertain to small vessels (microangiopathy) and involve precapillary arterioles, capillaries and small veins. Pericyte loss, thickening of the basement membrane, and damage and proliferation of endothelial cells are observed. Endothelial cells (monolayer squamous epithelium) form the smooth internal vascular lining indispensable for normal blood flow. Breaking its continuity initiates blood coagulation at that site. The endothelium controls the process of exchange of chemical substances (nutritional, regulatory, waste products) between blood and the retina, and blood cell passing through the vascular wall. Endothelial cells produce biologically active substances involved in blood coagulation, regulating vascular wall tension and stimulating neoangiogenesis. On the other hand, recent studies have demonstrated that diabetic retinopathy may be not only a microvascular disease, but is a result of neuroretinal degeneration. Neuroretinal degeneration appears structurally, as neural apoptosis of amacrine and Muller cells, reactive gliosis, ganglion cell layer/inner plexiform (GCL) thickness, retinal thickness, and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and a reduction of the neuroretinal rim in minimum rim width (MRW) and functionally as an abnormal electroretinogram (ERG), dark adaptation, contrast sensitivity, color vision, and microperimetric test. The findings in early stages of diabetic retinopathy may precede microvascular changes of this disease. Furthermore, the article's objective is to characterize the factors and mechanisms conducive to microvascular changes and neuroretinal apoptosis in diabetic retinopathy. Only when all the measures preventing vascular dysfunction are determined will the risk of complications in the course of diabetes be minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Mrugacz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Rehabilitation, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Białystok, Poland
| | - Anna Bryl
- Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Rehabilitation, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Białystok, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Zorena
- Department of Immunobiology and Environment Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 18-211 Gdańsk, Poland
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50
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Gorbatyuk OS, Pitale PM, Saltykova IV, Dorofeeva IB, Zhylkibayev AA, Athar M, Fuchs PA, Samuels BC, Gorbatyuk MS. A Novel Tree Shrew Model of Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:799711. [PMID: 35046899 PMCID: PMC8762304 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.799711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing animal models with rod-dominant retinas have shown that hyperglycemia injures neurons, but it is not yet clearly understood how blue cone photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) deteriorate in patients because of compromised insulin tolerance. In contrast, northern tree shrews (Tupaia Belangeri), one of the closest living relatives of primates, have a cone-dominant retina with short wave sensitivity (SWS) and long wave sensitivity (LWS) cones. Therefore, we injected animals with a single streptozotocin dose (175 mg/kg i.p.) to investigate whether sustained hyperglycemia models the features of human diabetic retinopathy (DR). We used the photopic electroretinogram (ERG) to measure the amplitudes of A and B waves and the photopic negative responses (PhNR) to evaluate cone and RGC function. Retinal flat mounts were prepared for immunohistochemical analysis to count the numbers of neurons with antibodies against cone opsins and RGC specific BRN3a proteins. The levels of the proteins TRIB3, ISR-1, and p-AKT/p-mTOR were measured with western blot. The results demonstrated that tree shrews manifested sustained hyperglycemia leading to a slight but significant loss of SWS cones (12%) and RGCs (20%) 16 weeks after streptozotocin injection. The loss of BRN3a-positive RGCs was also reflected by a 30% decline in BRN3a protein expression. These were accompanied by reduced ERG amplitudes and PhNRs. Importantly, the diabetic retinas demonstrated increased expression of TRIB3 and level of p-AKT/p-mTOR axis but reduced level of IRS-1 protein. Therefore, a new non-primate model of DR with SWS cone and RGC dysfunction lays the foundation to better understand retinal pathophysiology at the molecular level and opens an avenue for improving the research on the treatment of human eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg S Gorbatyuk
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Priyamvada M Pitale
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Irina V Saltykova
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Iuliia B Dorofeeva
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Assylbek A Zhylkibayev
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Mohammad Athar
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Preston A Fuchs
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Brian C Samuels
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Marina S Gorbatyuk
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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