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Ma C, Li H, Lu S, Li X. The Role and Therapeutic Potential of Melatonin in Degenerative Fundus Diseases: Diabetes Retinopathy and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2329-2346. [PMID: 38911030 PMCID: PMC11193467 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s471525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Degenerative fundus disease encompasses a spectrum of ocular diseases, including diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which are major contributors to visual impairment and blindness worldwide. The development and implementation of effective strategies for managing and preventing the onset and progression of these diseases are crucial for preserving patients' visual acuity. Melatonin, a neurohormone primarily produced by the pineal gland, exhibits properties such as circadian rhythm modulation, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuroprotection within the ocular environment. Furthermore, melatonin has been shown to suppress neovascularization and reduce vascular leakage, both of which are critical in the pathogenesis of degenerative fundus lesions. Consequently, melatonin emerges as a promising therapeutic candidate for degenerative ocular diseases. This review provides a comprehensive overview of melatonin synthesis, its localization within ocular tissues, and its mechanisms of action, particularly in regulating melatonin production, thereby underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for degenerative fundus diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haoyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Hunan Clinical Research Centre of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuwen Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian Li
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Sun Y, Hao M, Wu H, Zhang C, Wei D, Li S, Song Z, Tao Y. Unveiling the role of CaMKII in retinal degeneration: from biological mechanism to therapeutic strategies. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:59. [PMID: 38725013 PMCID: PMC11084033 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01236-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is a family of broad substrate specificity serine (Ser)/threonine (Thr) protein kinases that play a crucial role in the Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways. Its significance as an intracellular Ca2+ sensor has garnered abundant research interest in the domain of neurodegeneration. Accumulating evidences suggest that CaMKII is implicated in the pathology of degenerative retinopathies such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and glaucoma optic neuropathy. CaMKII can induce the aberrant proliferation of retinal blood vessels, influence the synaptic signaling, and exert dual effects on the survival of retinal ganglion cells and pigment epithelial cells. Researchers have put forth multiple therapeutic agents, encompassing small molecules, peptides, and nucleotides that possess the capability to modulate CaMKII activity. Due to its broad range isoforms and splice variants therapeutic strategies seek to inhibit specifically the CaMKII are confronted with considerable challenges. Therefore, it becomes crucial to discern the detrimental and advantageous aspects of CaMKII, thereby facilitating the development of efficacious treatment. In this review, we summarize recent research findings on the cellular and molecular biology of CaMKII, with special emphasis on its metabolic and regulatory mechanisms. We delve into the involvement of CaMKII in the retinal signal transduction pathways and discuss the correlation between CaMKII and calcium overload. Furthermore, we elaborate the therapeutic trials targeting CaMKII, and introduce recent developments in the zone of CaMKII inhibitors. These findings would enrich our knowledge of CaMKII, and shed light on the development of a therapeutic target for degenerative retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Mengyu Hao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chengzhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Dong Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Siyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zongming Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| | - Ye Tao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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Pastor JC, Pastor-Idoate S, López-Paniagua M, Para M, Blazquez F, Murgui E, García V, Coco-Martín RM. Intravitreal allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells: a non-randomized phase II clinical trial for acute non-arteritic optic neuropathy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:261. [PMID: 37735668 PMCID: PMC10512539 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03500-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An effective treatment for acute non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION) has not been known or proven yet. Previous studies have suggested a neuroprotective effect of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. This study aims to report the results of a clinical trial on patients with acute non-arteritic optic neuropathy (NA-AION) treated with an intravitreal injection of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) (MSV®). METHODS We conducted a prospective, non-randomized, clinical phase-II study (Eudra CT number 2016-003029-40; ClinicalTrials.gov Registry NCT03173638) that included 5 patients with acute unilateral NA-AION diagnosed within 2 weeks after symptom onset and who received an intravitreal injection of allogeneic BM-MSCs (0.05 ml; cell concentration: 1.5 × 106cells/mL). The patients underwent regular ophthalmological examinations and were followed for one year. RESULTS In this trial, allogeneic BM-MSCs appeared to be safe as no patients developed signs of acute nor chronic intraocular inflammation or a significant change in intraocular pressure, although an epiretinal membrane was developed in one patient. A retrolental aggregate formed shortly after the injection spontaneously disappeared within a few weeks in another phakic patient, leaving a subcapsular cataract. Visual improvement was noted in 4 patients, and amplitudes of P100 on the visually evoked potentials recordings increased in three patients. The retinal nerve fiber layer and macular ganglion cell layer thicknesses significantly decreased during the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Besides the development of an epiretinal membrane in one patient, the intravitreal application of allogeneic BM-MSCs appeared to be intraocularly well tolerated. Consequently, not only NA-AION but also BM-MSCs deserve more clinical investigational resources and a larger randomized multicenter trial that would provide stronger evidence both about safety and the potential therapeutic efficacy of intravitreally injected allogeneic BM-MSCs in acute NA-AION. TRIAL REGISTRATION Safety Assessment of Intravitreal Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Acute Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NEUROSTEM). NCT03173638. Registered June 02, 2017 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03173638 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose C Pastor
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
- Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León, Valladolid, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Hospital Clínico Universitario, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Salvador Pastor-Idoate
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain.
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Hospital Clínico Universitario, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Marina López-Paniagua
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
- Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León, Valladolid, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Para
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Francisco Blazquez
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Murgui
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Verónica García
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Unidad de Excelencia Instituto de Biología y Genética Molecular (IBGM), Universidad de Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
- Citospin S.L., Valladolid, Spain
| | - Rosa M Coco-Martín
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, Campus Miguel Delibes, Pº de Belén nº 17, 47011, Valladolid, Spain
- Centro en Red de Medicina Regenerativa y Terapia Celular de Castilla y León, Valladolid, Spain
- Redes de Investigación Cooperativa Orientadas a Resultados en Salud (RICORS), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Wu KY, Fujioka JK, Gholamian T, Zaharia M, Tran SD. Suprachoroidal Injection: A Novel Approach for Targeted Drug Delivery. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1241. [PMID: 37765048 PMCID: PMC10535603 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Treating posterior segment and retinal diseases poses challenges due to the complex structures in the eye that act as robust barriers, limiting medication delivery and bioavailability. This necessitates frequent dosing, typically via eye drops or intravitreal injections, to manage diseases, often leading to side effects with long-term use. Suprachoroidal injection is a novel approach for targeted drug delivery to the posterior segment. The suprachoroidal space is the region between the sclera and the choroid and provides a potential route for minimally invasive medication delivery. Through a more targeted delivery to the posterior segment, this method offers advantages over other routes of administration, such as higher drug concentrations, increased bioavailability, and prolonged duration of action. Additionally, this approach minimizes the risk of corticosteroid-related adverse events such as cataracts and intraocular pressure elevation via compartmentalization. This review focuses on preclinical and clinical studies published between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the potential of suprachoroidal injection in treating a variety of posterior segment diseases. However, to fully harness its potential, more research is needed to address current challenges and limitations, such as the need for technological advancements, refinement of injection techniques, and consideration of cost and accessibility factors. Future studies exploring its use in conjunction with biotech products, gene therapies, and cell-based therapies can lead to personalized treatments that can revolutionize the field of ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Jamie K. Fujioka
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Tara Gholamian
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Marian Zaharia
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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Moghadam Fard A, Mirshahi R, Naseripour M, Ghasemi Falavarjani K. Stem Cell Therapy in Stargardt Disease: A Systematic Review. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2023; 18:318-327. [PMID: 37600916 PMCID: PMC10432931 DOI: 10.18502/jovr.v18i3.13780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This article aimed to review current literature on the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy in Stargardt disease. A comprehensive literature search was performed, and two animal and eleven human clinical trials were retrieved. These studies utilized different kinds of stem cells, including human or mouse embryonic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, bone marrow mononuclear fraction, and autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells. In addition, different injection techniques including subretinal, intravitreal, and suprachoroidal space injections have been evaluated. Although stem cell therapy holds promise in improving visual function in patients with Stargardt disease, further investigation is needed to determine the long-term benefits, safety, and efficacy in determining the best delivery method and selecting the most appropriate stem cell type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atousa Moghadam Fard
- Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mirshahi
- Eye Research Center, The Five Senses Health Institute, Rassoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masood Naseripour
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Short-Term In Vitro ROS Detection and Oxidative Stress Regulators in Epiretinal Membranes and Vitreous from Idiopathic Vitreoretinal Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7497816. [PMID: 36567907 PMCID: PMC9788888 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7497816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background A plethora of inflammatory, angiogenic, and tissue remodeling factors has been reported in idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs). Herein we focused on the expression of a few mediators (oxidative, inflammatory, and angiogenic/vascular factors) by means of short-term vitreal cell cultures and biomolecular analysis. Methods Thirty-nine (39) ERMs and vitreal samples were collected at the time of vitreoretinal surgery and biomolecular analyses were performed in clear vitreous, vitreal cell pellets, and ERMs. ROS products and iNOS were investigated in adherent vitreal cells and/or ERMs, and iNOS, VEGF, Ang-2, IFNγ, IL18, and IL22 were quantified in vitreous (ELISA/Ella, IF/WB); transcripts specific for iNOS, p65NFkB, KEAP1, NRF2, and NOX1/NOX4 were detected in ERMs (PCR). Biomolecular changes were analyzed and correlated with disease severity. Results The higher ROS production was observed in vitreal cells at stage 4, and iNOS was found in ERMs and increased in the vitreous as early as at stage 3. Both iNOS and NOX4 were upregulated at all stages, while p65NFkB was increased at stage 3. iNOS and NOX1 were positively and inversely related with p65NFkB. While NOX4 transcripts were always upregulated, NRF2 was upregulated at stage 3 and inverted at stage 4. No significant changes occurred in the release of angiogenic (VEGF, Ang-2) and proinflammatory (IL18, IL22 and IFNγ) mediators between all stages investigated. Conclusions ROS production was strictly associated with iNOS and NOX4 overexpression and increased depending on ERM stadiation. The higher iNOS expression occurred as early as stage 3, with respect to p65NFkB and NRF2. These last mediators might have potential prognostic values in ERMs as representative of an underneath retinal damage.
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Huang Y, Zhu M, Liu Z, Hu R, Li F, Song Y, Geng Y, Ma W, Song K, Zhang M. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in premature ovarian failure: Mechanisms and prospects. Front Immunol 2022; 13:997808. [PMID: 36389844 PMCID: PMC9646528 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.997808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a common female reproductive disorder and characterized by menopause, increased gonadotropin levels and estrogen deficiency before the age of 40 years old. The etiologies and pathogenesis of POF are not fully clear. At present, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the main treatment options for POF. It helps to ameliorate perimenopausal symptoms and related health risks, but can't restore ovarian function and fertility fundamentally. With the development of regenerative medicine, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have shown great potential for the recovery of ovarian function and fertility based on the advantages of abundant sources, high capacity for self-renewal and differentiation, low immunogenicity and less ethical considerations. This systematic review aims to summarize the possible therapeutic mechanisms of BMSCs for POF. A detailed search strategy of preclinical studies and clinical trials on BMSCs and POF was performed on PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science and Embase database. A total of 21 studies were included in this review. Although the standardization of BMSCs need more explorations, there is no doubt that BMSCs transplantation may represent a prospective therapy for POF. It is hope to provide a theoretical basis for further research and treatment for POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mengdi Zhu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China,*Correspondence: Mingmin Zhang, ; Kunkun Song,
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China,*Correspondence: Mingmin Zhang, ; Kunkun Song,
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8
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From the tyrosine hydroxylase hypothesis of Parkinson's disease to modern strategies: a short historical overview. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:487-495. [PMID: 35460433 PMCID: PMC9188506 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02488-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A time span of 60 years covers the detection of catecholamines in the brain, their function in movement and correlation to Parkinson’s disease (PD). The clinical findings that orally given l-DOPA can alleviate or even prevent akinesia gave great hope for the treatment of PD. Attention focused on the role of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) as the rate-limiting enzyme in the formation of catecholamines. It became evident that the enzyme driven formation is lowered in PD. Such results could only be obtained from studying human brain samples demonstrating the necessity for human brain banks. Originally, a TH enzyme deficiency was suspected in PD. Studies were conducted on the enzyme properties: its induction and turnover, the complex regulation starting with cofactor requirements as tetrahydrobiopterin and ferrous iron, and the necessity for phosphorylation for activity as well as inhibition by toxins or regulatory feedback inhibition by catecholamines. In the course of time, it became evident that neurodegeneration and cell death of dopaminergic neurons is the actual pathological process and the decrease of TH a cophenomenon. Nevertheless, TH immunochemistry has ever since been a valuable tool to study neuronal pathways, neurodegeneration in various animal models of neurotoxicity and cell cultures, which have been used as well to test potential neuroprotective strategies.
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Chang YH, Kumar VB, Wen YT, Huang CY, Tsai RK, Ding DC. Induction of Human Umbilical Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation Into Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Using a Transwell-Based Co-culture System. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221085901. [PMID: 35321565 PMCID: PMC8961389 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221085901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in generating retinal pigment epithelial (RPE)
cells from stem cells for treating degenerative eye diseases. However, whether
human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) can differentiate into
RPE-like cells in a co-culture system has not been fully understood. In this
study, induction of HUCMSC differentiation into RPE-like cells was performed by
co-culturing HUCMSCs and a human RPE-like cell line (ARPE19) in a transwell
system and then analyzed for biomarkers using quantitative reverse transcription
polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence staining technique.
Moreover, the functional characterization of induced cells was carried out by
examining their phagocytic and neurotrophic factor–secreting activities. Our
results showed that mRNA expressions of RPE-specific markers—MITF, OTX2, RPE65,
PEDF, PME17, and CRALBP—and protein markers—RPE65, CRALBP, and ZO-1—were
significantly increased in HUCMSC-derived RPE-like cells. Functional
characteristic studies showed that these induced cells were capable of engulfing
photoreceptor outer segments and secreting brain-derived neurotrophic factor
(BDNF) and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), which are typical functions
of RPE-like cells. Overall, the study findings indicate that the morphology and
proliferation of HUCMSCs can be maintained in a serum-free medium, and
differentiation into RPE-like cells can be induced by simply co-culturing
HUCMSCs with ARPE19 cells. Thus, the study provides fundamental information
regarding the clinical-scale generation of RPE-like cells from HUCMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hsun Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation and Tzu Chi University, Hualien
| | - V Bharath Kumar
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung
| | - Yao-Tseng Wen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation and Tzu Chi University, Hualien
| | - Chih-Yang Huang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung.,Department of Chinese Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung.,Center of General Education, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien.,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung
| | - Rong-Kung Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation and Tzu Chi University, Hualien
| | - Dah-Ching Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation and Tzu Chi University, Hualien.,Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien
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Yu H, Wang Q, Wu W, Zeng W, Feng Y. Therapeutic Effects of Melatonin on Ocular Diseases: Knowledge Map and Perspective. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:721869. [PMID: 34795578 PMCID: PMC8593251 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.721869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin plays a critical role in the pathophysiological process including circadian rhythm, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. It can be synthesized in ocular tissues, and its receptors are also found in the eye, triggering more investigations concentrated on the role of melatonin in the eye. In the past decades, the protective and therapeutic potentials of melatonin for ocular diseases have been widely revealed in animal models. Herein, we construct a knowledge map of melatonin in treating ocular diseases through bibliometric analysis and review its current understanding and clinical evidence. The overall field could be divided into twelve topics through keywords co-occurrence analysis, in which the glaucoma, myopia, and retinal diseases were of greatest research interests according to the keywords burst detection. The existing clinical trials of melatonin in ocular diseases mainly focused on the glaucoma, and more research should be promoted, especially for various diseases and drug administration. We also discuss its bioavailability and further research topics including developing melatonin sensors for personalized medication, acting as stem cell therapy assistant drug, and consuming food-derived melatonin for facilitating its clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haozhe Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qicong Wang
- Department of Chinese Medicine of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyu Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weizhen Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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Lv Z, Xiao L, Tang Y, Chen Y, Chen D. Rb deficiency induces p21cip1 expression and delays retinal degeneration in rd1 mice. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108701. [PMID: 34252413 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a major cause of inherited blindness, and there is presently no cure for RP. Rd1 mouse is the most commonly used RP animal model. Re-expression of cell cycle proteins in post-mitotic neurons is considered an important mechanism of neurodegenerative diseases, including RP. The retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (Rb) is a major regulator of cell cycle progression, yet its role in rd1 mouse retina and related signaling pathways have never been analyzed. By crossing α-Cre, Rbf/f mice with rd1 mice, p21cip1-/- mice, Cdk1f/f mice and Cdk2f/f mice, we established multiple rd1 mouse models with deletions of Rb gene, Cdkn1a (p21cip1) gene, Cdk1 and Cdk2 gene in the retina. Cdk inhibitor CR8 was injected into the vitreous of rd1 mouse to investigate its effects on photoreceptor survival. Rb gene knockout (KO) induces cell death in excitatory retinal neurons (rods, rod bipolar and ganglions) and ectopic proliferation of retinal cells; but it paradoxically delays the rod death of rd1 mice, which is primarily mediated by the Cdk inhibitor Cdkn1a (p21cip1). Interestingly, p21cip1 protects the ectopic dividing rd1 rod cells by inhibiting Cdk1 and Cdk2. However, inhibiting Cdk1 and Cdk2 in rd1 mice with non-dividing rods only has limited and transient protective effects. Our data suggest that there is no ectopic division of rd1 rod cells, and RbKO induces ectopic division but delays the death of rd1 rod cells. This reveals the important protective role of Rb-p21cip1-Cdk axis in rd1 rod cells. P21cip1 is a potential target for future therapy of RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongping Lv
- The Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; The Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lirong Xiao
- The Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yunjing Tang
- The Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; The Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongjiang Chen
- The School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave. W., Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Danian Chen
- The Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; The Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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