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Enayati S, Chang K, Lennikov A, Yang M, Lee C, Ashok A, Elzaridi F, Yen C, Gunes K, Xie J, Cho KS, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Optimal transcorneal electrical stimulation parameters for preserving photoreceptors in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2543-2552. [PMID: 38526290 PMCID: PMC11090438 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.392888] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202419110-00034/figure1/v/2024-03-08T184507Z/r/image-tiff Retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary retinal disease that affects rod and cone photoreceptors, leading to progressive photoreceptor loss. Previous research supports the beneficial effect of electrical stimulation on photoreceptor survival. This study aims to identify the most effective electrical stimulation parameters and functional advantages of transcorneal electrical stimulation (tcES) in mice affected by inherited retinal degeneration. Additionally, the study seeked to analyze the electric field that reaches the retina in both eyes in mice and post-mortem humans. In this study, we recorded waveforms and voltages directed to the retina during transcorneal electrical stimulation in C57BL/6J mice using an intraocular needle probe with rectangular, sine, and ramp waveforms. To investigate the functional effects of electrical stimulation on photoreceptors, we used human retinal explant cultures and rhodopsin knockout (Rho-/-) mice, demonstrating progressive photoreceptor degeneration with age. Human retinal explants isolated from the donors' eyes were then subjected to electrical stimulation and cultured for 48 hours to simulate the neurodegenerative environment in vitro. Photoreceptor density was evaluated by rhodopsin immunolabeling. In vivo Rho-/- mice were subjected to two 5-day series of daily transcorneal electrical stimulation using rectangular and ramp waveforms. Retinal function and visual perception of mice were evaluated by electroretinography and optomotor response (OMR), respectively. Immunolabeling was used to assess the morphological and biochemical changes of the photoreceptor and bipolar cells in mouse retinas. Oscilloscope recordings indicated effective delivery of rectangular, sine, and ramp waveforms to the retina by transcorneal electrical stimulation, of which the ramp waveform required the lowest voltage. Evaluation of the total conductive resistance of the post-mortem human compared to the mouse eyes indicated higher cornea-to-retina resistance in human eyes. The temperature recordings during and after electrical stimulation indicated no significant temperature change in vivo and only a subtle temperature increase in vitro (~0.5-1.5°C). Electrical stimulation increased photoreceptor survival in human retinal explant cultures, particularly at the ramp waveform. Transcorneal electrical stimulation (rectangular + ramp) waveforms significantly improved the survival and function of S and M-cones and enhanced visual acuity based on the optomotor response results. Histology and immunolabeling demonstrated increased photoreceptor survival, improved outer nuclear layer thickness, and increased bipolar cell sprouting in Rho-/- mice. These results indicate that transcorneal electrical stimulation effectively delivers the electrical field to the retina, improves photoreceptor survival in both human and mouse retinas, and increases visual function in Rho-/- mice. Combined rectangular and ramp waveform stimulation can promote photoreceptor survival in a minimally invasive fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Enayati
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of clinical medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Karen Chang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anton Lennikov
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Menglu Yang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cherin Lee
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ajay Ashok
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Farris Elzaridi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christina Yen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kasim Gunes
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Jia Xie
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of clinical medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Khalili MR, Shadmani A, Sanie-Jahromi F. Application of electrostimulation and magnetic stimulation in patients with optic neuropathy: A mechanistic review. Dev Neurobiol 2024; 84:236-248. [PMID: 38844425 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22949] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Visual impairment caused by optic neuropathies is irreversible because retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the specialized neurons of the retina, do not have the capacity for self-renewal and self-repair. Blindness caused by optic nerve neuropathies causes extensive physical, financial, and social consequences in human societies. Recent studies on different animal models and humans have established effective strategies to prevent further RGC degeneration and replace the cells that have deteriorated. In this review, we discuss the application of electrical stimulation (ES) and magnetic field stimulation (MFS) in optic neuropathies, their mechanisms of action, their advantages, and limitations. ES and MFS can be applied effectively in the field of neuroregeneration. Although stem cells are becoming a promising approach for regenerating RGCs, the inhibitory environment of the CNS and the long visual pathway from the optic nerve to the superior colliculus are critical barriers to overcome. Scientific evidence has shown that adjuvant treatments, such as the application of ES and MFS help direct thetransplanted RGCs to extend their axons and form new synapses in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, these techniques improve CNS neuroplasticity and decrease the inhibitory effects of the CNS. Possible mechanisms mediating the effects of electrical current on biological tissues include the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, improvement of microcirculation, stimulation of cell metabolism, and modification of stem cell function. ES and MFS have the potential to promote angiogenesis, direct axon growth toward the intended target, and enhance appropriate synaptogenesis in optic nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Khalili
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Athar Shadmani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Asefifeyzabadi N, Nguyen T, Li H, Zhu K, Yang HY, Baniya P, Medina Lopez A, Gallegos A, Hsieh HC, Dechiraju H, Hernandez C, Schorger K, Recendez C, Tebyani M, Selberg J, Luo L, Muzzy E, Hsieh C, Barbee A, Orozco J, Alhamo MA, Levin M, Aslankoohi E, Gomez M, Zhao M, Teodorescu M, Isseroff RR, Rolandi M. A pro-reparative bioelectronic device for controlled delivery of ions and biomolecules. Wound Repair Regen 2024. [PMID: 38794912 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.13191] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex physiological process that requires precise control and modulation of many parameters. Therapeutic ion and biomolecule delivery has the capability to regulate the wound healing process beneficially. However, achieving controlled delivery through a compact device with the ability to deliver multiple therapeutic species can be a challenge. Bioelectronic devices have emerged as a promising approach for therapeutic delivery. Here, we present a pro-reparative bioelectronic device designed to deliver ions and biomolecules for wound healing applications. The device incorporates ion pumps for the targeted delivery of H+ and zolmitriptan to the wound site. In vivo studies using a mouse model further validated the device's potential for modulating the wound environment via H+ delivery that decreased M1/M2 macrophage ratios. Overall, this bioelectronic ion pump demonstrates potential for accelerating wound healing via targeted and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents to wounds. Continued optimization and development of this device could not only lead to significant advancements in tissue repair and wound healing strategies but also reveal new physiological information about the dynamic wound environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Asefifeyzabadi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Tiffany Nguyen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Houpu Li
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Kan Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Hsin-Ya Yang
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Prabhat Baniya
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Andrea Medina Lopez
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Anthony Gallegos
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Hao-Chieh Hsieh
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Harika Dechiraju
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Cristian Hernandez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Kaelan Schorger
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Cynthia Recendez
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Maryam Tebyani
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - John Selberg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Le Luo
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Elana Muzzy
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Cathleen Hsieh
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Cruz, California, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Alexie Barbee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Jonathan Orozco
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
- Department of Economics, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Moyasar A Alhamo
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Michael Levin
- Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elham Aslankoohi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Marcella Gomez
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Roslyn Rivkah Isseroff
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Dermatology Section, VA Northern California Health Care System, Mather, California, USA
| | - Marco Rolandi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, USA
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Hernández-Sebastián N, Carpio-Verdín VM, Ambriz-Vargas F, Morales-Morales F, Benítez-Lara A, Buenrostro-Jáuregui MH, Bojorges-Valdez E, Barrientos-García B. Fabrication and Characterization of a Flexible Thin-Film-Based Array of Microelectrodes for Corneal Electrical Stimulation. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1999. [PMID: 38004856 PMCID: PMC10673352 DOI: 10.3390/mi14111999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The electric stimulation (ES) of the cornea is a novel therapeutic approach to the treatment of degenerative visual diseases. Currently, ES is delivered by placing a mono-element electrode on the surface of the cornea that uniformly stimulates the eye along the electrode site. It has been reported that a certain degree of correlation exists between the location of the stimulated retinal area and the position of the electrode. Therefore, in this study, we present the development of a sectioned surface electrode for selective electric stimulation of the human cornea. The proposed device consists of 16 independent microelectrodes, a reference electrode, and 18 contact pads. The microelectrodes have a size of 200 µm × 200 µm, are arranged in a 4 × 4 matrix, and cover a total stimulation area of 16 mm2. The proposed fabrication process, based on surface micromachining technology and flexible electronics, uses only three materials: polyimide, aluminum, and titanium, which allow us to obtain a simplified, ergonomic, and reproducible fabrication process. The fabricated prototype was validated to laboratory level by electrical and electrochemical tests, showing a relatively high electrical conductivity and average impedance from 712 kΩ to 1.4 MΩ at the clinically relevant frequency range (from 11 Hz to 30 Hz). Additionally, the biocompatibility of the electrode prototype was demonstrated by performing in vivo tests and by analyzing the polyimide films using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The resulting electrode prototype is robust, mechanically flexible, and biocompatible, with a high potential to be used for selective ES of the cornea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natiely Hernández-Sebastián
- Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico; (V.M.C.-V.); (F.A.-V.); (F.M.-M.); (B.B.-G.)
| | - Víctor Manuel Carpio-Verdín
- Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico; (V.M.C.-V.); (F.A.-V.); (F.M.-M.); (B.B.-G.)
| | - Fabián Ambriz-Vargas
- Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico; (V.M.C.-V.); (F.A.-V.); (F.M.-M.); (B.B.-G.)
| | - Francisco Morales-Morales
- Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico; (V.M.C.-V.); (F.A.-V.); (F.M.-M.); (B.B.-G.)
| | - Alfredo Benítez-Lara
- CONAHCYT, Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico;
| | | | - Erik Bojorges-Valdez
- Departamento de Estudios en Ingeniería para la Innovación, Universidad Iberoamericana Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México 01219, Mexico;
| | - Bernardino Barrientos-García
- Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C. Loma del Bosque 115, León 37150, Mexico; (V.M.C.-V.); (F.A.-V.); (F.M.-M.); (B.B.-G.)
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Larrea A, Elexpe A, Díez-Martín E, Torrecilla M, Astigarraga E, Barreda-Gómez G. Neuroinflammation in the Evolution of Motor Function in Stroke and Trauma Patients: Treatment and Potential Biomarkers. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:8552-8585. [PMID: 37998716 PMCID: PMC10670324 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110539] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation has a significant impact on different pathologies, such as stroke or spinal cord injury, intervening in their pathophysiology: expansion, progression, and resolution. Neuroinflammation involves oxidative stress, damage, and cell death, playing an important role in neuroplasticity and motor dysfunction by affecting the neuronal connection responsible for motor control. The diagnosis of this pathology is performed using neuroimaging techniques and molecular diagnostics based on identifying and measuring signaling molecules or specific markers. In parallel, new therapeutic targets are being investigated via the use of bionanomaterials and electrostimulation to modulate the neuroinflammatory response. These novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have the potential to facilitate the development of anticipatory patterns and deliver the most beneficial treatment to improve patients' quality of life and directly impact their motor skills. However, important challenges remain to be solved. Hence, the goal of this study was to review the implication of neuroinflammation in the evolution of motor function in stroke and trauma patients, with a particular focus on novel methods and potential biomarkers to aid clinicians in diagnosis, treatment, and therapy. A specific analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities was conducted, highlighting the key challenges to be faced in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Larrea
- Research and Development Division, IMG Pharma Biotech, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.L.); (A.E.); (E.D.-M.); (E.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
| | - Ane Elexpe
- Research and Development Division, IMG Pharma Biotech, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.L.); (A.E.); (E.D.-M.); (E.A.)
| | - Eguzkiñe Díez-Martín
- Research and Development Division, IMG Pharma Biotech, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.L.); (A.E.); (E.D.-M.); (E.A.)
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - María Torrecilla
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
| | - Egoitz Astigarraga
- Research and Development Division, IMG Pharma Biotech, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.L.); (A.E.); (E.D.-M.); (E.A.)
| | - Gabriel Barreda-Gómez
- Research and Development Division, IMG Pharma Biotech, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.L.); (A.E.); (E.D.-M.); (E.A.)
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Sharif NA. Electrical, Electromagnetic, Ultrasound Wave Therapies, and Electronic Implants for Neuronal Rejuvenation, Neuroprotection, Axonal Regeneration, and IOP Reduction. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:477-498. [PMID: 36126293 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) of mammals and nervous systems of lower organisms possess significant regenerative potential. In contrast, although neural plasticity can provide some compensation, the central nervous system (CNS) neurons and nerves of adult mammals generally fail to regenerate after an injury or damage. However, use of diverse electrical, electromagnetic and sonographic energy waves are illuminating novel ways to stimulate neuronal differentiation, proliferation, neurite growth, and axonal elongation/regeneration leading to various levels of functional recovery in animals and humans afflicted with disorders of the CNS, PNS, retina, and optic nerve. Tools such as acupuncture, electroacupuncture, electroshock therapy, electrical stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, red light therapy, and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy are demonstrating efficacy in treating many different maladies. These include wound healing, partial recovery from motor dysfunctions, recovery from ischemic/reperfusion insults and CNS and ocular remyelination, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) rejuvenation, and RGC axonal regeneration. Neural rejuvenation and axonal growth/regeneration processes involve activation or intensifying of the intrinsic bioelectric waves (action potentials) that exist in every neuronal circuit of the body. In addition, reparative factors released at the nerve terminals and via neuronal dendrites (transmitter substances), extracellular vesicles containing microRNAs and neurotrophins, and intercellular communication occurring via nanotubes aid in reestablishing lost or damaged connections between the traumatized tissues and the PNS and CNS. Many other beneficial effects of the aforementioned treatment paradigms are mediated via gene expression alterations such as downregulation of inflammatory and death-signal genes and upregulation of neuroprotective and cytoprotective genes. These varied techniques and technologies will be described and discussed covering cell-based and animal model-based studies. Data from clinical applications and linkage to human ocular diseases will also be discussed where relevant translational research has been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, California, USA
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Insitute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
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Ashok A, Tai WL, Lennikov A, Chang K, Chen J, Li B, Cho KS, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Electrical stimulation alters DNA methylation and promotes neurite outgrowth. J Cell Biochem 2023; 124:1530-1545. [PMID: 37642194 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ES) influences neural regeneration and functionality. We here investigate whether ES regulates DNA demethylation, a critical epigenetic event known to influence nerve regeneration. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) have long served as a standard model for central nervous system neurons, whose growth and disease development are reportedly affected by DNA methylation. The current study focuses on the ability of ES to rescue RGCs and preserve vision by modulating DNA demethylation. To evaluate DNA demethylation pattern during development, RGCs from mice at different stages of development, were analyzed using qPCR for ten-eleven translocation (TETs) and immunostained for 5 hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmc) and 5 methylcytosine (5mc). To understand the effect of ES on neurite outgrowth and DNA demethylation, cells were subjected to ES at 75 µAmp biphasic ramp for 20 min and cultured for 5 days. ES increased TETs mediated neurite outgrowth, DNA demethylation, TET1 and growth associated protein 43 levels significantly. Immunostaining of PC12 cells following ES for histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation showed cells attained an antiheterochromatin configuration. Cultured mouse and human retinal explants stained with β-III tubulin exhibited increased neurite growth following ES. Finally, mice subjected to optic nerve crush injury followed by ES exhibited improved RGCs function and phenotype as validated using electroretinogram and immunohistochemistry. Our results point to a possible therapeutic regulation of DNA demethylation by ES in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Ashok
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wai Lydia Tai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anton Lennikov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Karen Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Julie Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Boyuan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Parkinson KM, Sayre EC, Tobe SW. Evaluation of visual acuity in dry AMD patients after microcurrent electrical stimulation. Int J Retina Vitreous 2023; 9:36. [PMID: 37331928 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-023-00471-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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess micro current to improve vision for dry age-related macular degeneration. Dry age-related macular degeneration is a major cause of blindness, disability, and severe erosion of quality of life, throughout the world. Beyond nutritional supplementation, there is no approved therapy. METHODS This was a prospective randomized sham controlled clinical trial for participants with confirmed dry AMD with documented visual loss. Participants were randomized three to one, to receive transpalpebral external micro current electrical stimulation with the MacuMira device. The Treatment group received four treatments in the first two weeks, and two further treatments at weeks 14 and 26. Differences in BCVA and contrast sensitivity (CS) were estimated with mixed-effects repeated measures analysis of variance. RESULTS Change of visual acuity with ETDRS assessment of number of letters read (NLR) and contrast sensitivity at week 4 and 30, compared to the first visit, between 43 treatment and 19 sham control participants. The Sham Control group had NLR of 24.2 (SD 7.1) at baseline, 24.2 (SD 7.2) at 4 weeks, and 22.1 (SD7.4) at 30 weeks. The Treatment group had NLR of 19.6 (SD 8.9) at baseline, 27.6 (SD 9.1) at 4 weeks, and 27.8 (SD 8.4) at 30 weeks. The change in NLR from baseline in the Treatment compared to the Sham control group was 7.7 (95% CI 5.7, 9.7, p < 0.001) at 4 weeks and 10.4 (95% CI 7.8, 13.1, p < 0.001) at 30 weeks. There were similar benefits in CS. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study of transpalpebral microcurrent demonstrated improved visual measures and is very encouraging as a potential treatment for dry AMD. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02540148, ClinicalTrials.gov.
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Vaiciuleviciute R, Uzieliene I, Bernotas P, Novickij V, Alaburda A, Bernotiene E. Electrical Stimulation in Cartilage Tissue Engineering. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040454. [PMID: 37106641 PMCID: PMC10135934 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040454] [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: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ES) has been frequently used in different biomedical applications both in vitro and in vivo. Numerous studies have demonstrated positive effects of ES on cellular functions, including metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation. The application of ES to cartilage tissue for increasing extracellular matrix formation is of interest, as cartilage is not able to restore its lesions owing to its avascular nature and lack of cells. Various ES approaches have been used to stimulate chondrogenic differentiation in chondrocytes and stem cells; however, there is a huge gap in systematizing ES protocols used for chondrogenic differentiation of cells. This review focuses on the application of ES for chondrocyte and mesenchymal stem cell chondrogenesis for cartilage tissue regeneration. The effects of different types of ES on cellular functions and chondrogenic differentiation are reviewed, systematically providing ES protocols and their advantageous effects. Moreover, cartilage 3D modeling using cells in scaffolds/hydrogels under ES are observed, and recommendations on reporting about the use of ES in different studies are provided to ensure adequate consolidation of knowledge in the area of ES. This review brings novel insights into the further application of ES in in vitro studies, which are promising for further cartilage repair techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raminta Vaiciuleviciute
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Santariskiu g. 5, 08410 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Ilona Uzieliene
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Santariskiu g. 5, 08410 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Paulius Bernotas
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Santariskiu g. 5, 08410 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- Department of Immunology, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Santariškių g. 5, 08410 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Faculty of Electronics, High Magnetic Field Institute, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Plytines g. 27, 10105 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Aidas Alaburda
- Life Sciences Center, Institute of Biosciences, Vilnius University, Sauletekio al. 7, 10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Eiva Bernotiene
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Santariskiu g. 5, 08410 Vilnius, Lithuania
- VilniusTech, Faculty of Fundamental Sciences, Sauletekio al. 11, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Stett A, Schatz A, Gekeler F, Franklin J. Transcorneal Electrical Stimulation Dose-Dependently Slows the Visual Field Loss in Retinitis Pigmentosa. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:29. [PMID: 36809335 PMCID: PMC9946045 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.2.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess whether transcorneal electrical stimulation (TcES) current-dependently slows progressive loss of visual field area (VFA) in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Methods Data from 51 patients with RP who received monocular TcES treatment once weekly over 1 year in an interventional, randomized study have been analyzed a posteriori. Current amplitudes were 0.1 to 1.0 mA in the TcES-treated group (n = 31) and 0.0 mA in the sham group (n = 20). VFA was assessed in both eyes (semiautomatic kinetic perimetry, Goldmann targets V4e, III4e). Annual decline rate (ADR) of exponential loss and model-independent percentage reduction of VFA at treatment cessation were correlated to current amplitude. Results For V4e, mean ADR was -4.1% in TcES-treated eyes, -6.4% in untreated fellow eyes, and -7.2% in placebo-treated eyes; mean VFA reduction in TcES-treated eyes was 64% less than in untreated fellow eyes (P = 0.013) and 72% less than in placebo-treated eyes (P = 0.103). Individual VFA reductions correlated with current amplitude (P = 0.043) and tended toward zero in patients who received 0.8 to 1.0 mA. For III4e, there was a marginally significant current-dependency of interocular difference in reduction (P = 0.11). ADR and VFA reduction did not significantly correlate with baseline VFA. Conclusions Loss of VFA (V4e) in patients with RP was significantly reduced in treated eyes compared to untreated eyes by regular use of TcES in a dose-dependent manner. No dependence of effects on the initial extent of VFA loss was found. Translational Relevance TcES provides potential for preservation of visual field in patients with RP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreas Schatz
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, Eberhard-Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Gekeler
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, Eberhard-Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany,Department of Ophthalmology, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Jeremy Franklin
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Yang M, Lennikov A, Chang K, Ashok A, Lee C, Cho KS, Utheim TP, Dartt DA, Chen DF. Transcorneal but not transpalpebral electrical stimulation disrupts mucin homeostasis of the ocular surface. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:490. [PMID: 36522696 PMCID: PMC9756492 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02717-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Transcorneal electrical stimulation (TcES) is increasingly applied as a therapy for preserving and improving vision in retinal neurodegenerative and ischemic disorders. However, a common complaint about TcES is its induction of eye pain and dryness in the clinic, while the mechanisms remain unknown. METHOD TcES or transpalpebral ES (TpES) was conducted in C57BL6j mice for 14 days. The contralateral eyes were used as non-stimulated controls. Levels of intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) were assessed by Fura-2AM. The conductance resistances of the eye under various ES conditions were measured in vivo by an oscilloscope. RESULTS Although TcES did not affect tear production, it significantly induced damage to the ocular surface, as revealed by corneal fluorescein staining that was accompanied by significantly decreased mucin (MUC) 4 expression compared to the control. Similar effects of ES were detected in cultured primary corneal epithelium cells, showing decreased MUC4 and ZO-1 levels after the ES in vitro. In addition, TcES decreased secretion of MUC5AC from the conjunctiva in vivo, which was also corroborated in goblet cell cultures, where ES significantly attenuated carbachol-induced [Ca2+]i increase. In contrast to TcES, transpalpebral ES (TpES) did not induce corneal fluorescein staining while significantly increasing tear production. Importantly, the conductive resistance from orbital skin to the TpES was significantly smaller than that from the cornea to the retina in TcES. CONCLUSION TcES, but not TpES, induces corneal epithelial damage in mice by disrupting mucin homeostasis. TpES thus may represent a safer and more effective ES approach for treating retinal neurodegeneration clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglu Yang
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Anton Lennikov
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA ,grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo, 0450 Norway
| | - Karen Chang
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA ,grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo, 0450 Norway
| | - Ajay Ashok
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA ,grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo, 0450 Norway
| | - Cherin Lee
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA ,grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo, 0450 Norway
| | - Darlene A. Dartt
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford St, Boston, MA 02114 USA
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12
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Lennikov A, Yang M, Chang K, Pan L, Saddala MS, Lee C, Ashok A, Cho KS, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Direct modulation of microglial function by electrical field. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:980775. [PMID: 36158207 PMCID: PMC9493490 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.980775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive electric stimulation (ES) employing a low-intensity electric current presents a potential therapeutic modality that can be applied for treating retinal and brain neurodegenerative disorders. As neurons are known to respond directly to ES, the effects of ES on glia cells are poorly studied. A key question is if ES directly mediates microglial function or modulates their activity merely via neuron-glial signaling. Here, we demonstrated the direct effects of ES on microglia in the BV-2 cells—an immortalized murine microglial cell line. The low current ES in a biphasic ramp waveform, but not that of rectangular or sine waveforms, significantly suppressed the motility and migration of BV-2 microglia in culture without causing cytotoxicity. This was associated with diminished cytoskeleton reorganization and microvilli formation in BV-2 cultures, as demonstrated by immunostaining of cytoskeletal proteins, F-actin and β-tubulin, and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, ES of a ramp waveform reduced microglial phagocytosis of fluorescent zymosan particles and suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in BV-2 cells as shown by Proteome Profiler Mouse Cytokine Array. The results of quantitative PCR and immunostaining for cyclooxygenase-2, Interleukin 6, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α corroborated the direct suppression of LPS-induced microglial responses by a ramp ES. Transcriptome profiling further demonstrated that ramp ES effectively suppressed nearly half of the LPS-induced genes, primarily relating to cellular motility, energy metabolism, and calcium signaling. Our results reveal a direct modulatory effect of ES on previously thought electrically “non-responsive” microglia and suggest a new avenue of employing ES for anti-inflammatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Lennikov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Menglu Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karen Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Li Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Madhu Sudhana Saddala
- Wilmer Bioinformatics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Cherin Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ajay Ashok
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tor Paaske Utheim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Dong Feng Chen,
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High-Contrast Stimulation Potentiates the Neurotrophic Properties of Müller Cells and Suppresses Their Pro-Inflammatory Phenotype. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158615. [PMID: 35955747 PMCID: PMC9369166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
High-contrast visual stimulation promotes retinal regeneration and visual function, but the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we hypothesized that Müller cells (MCs), which express neurotrophins such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), could be key players in this retinal plasticity process. This hypothesis was tested by conducting in vivo and in vitro high-contrast stimulation of adult mice and MCs. Following stimulation, we examined the expression of BDNF and its inducible factor, VGF, in the retina and MCs. We also investigated the alterations in the expression of VGF, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and pro-inflammatory mediators in MCs, as well as their capacity to proliferate and develop a neurogenic or reactive gliosis phenotype after high-contrast stimulation and treatment with BDNF. Our results showed that high-contrast stimulation upregulated BDNF levels in MCs in vivo and in vitro. The additional BDNF treatment significantly augmented VGF production in MCs and their neuroprotective features, as evidenced by increased MC proliferation, neurodifferentiation, and decreased expression of the pro-inflammatory factors and the reactive gliosis marker GFAP. These results demonstrate that high-contrast stimulation activates the neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties of MCs, suggesting their possible direct involvement in retinal neuronal survival and improved functional outcomes in response to visual stimulation.
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Liu J, Ma AK, So KF, Lee VW, Chiu K. Mechanisms of electrical stimulation in eye diseases: A narrative review. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2022; 2:100060. [PMID: 37846384 PMCID: PMC10577855 DOI: 10.1016/j.aopr.2022.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Background In the last two decades, electrical stimulation (ES) has been tested in patients with various eye diseases and shows great treatment potential in retinitis pigmentosa and optic neuropathy. However, the clinical application of ES in ophthalmology is currently limited. On the one hand, optimization and standardization of ES protocols is still an unmet need. On the other hand, poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms has hindered clinical exploitation. Main Text Numerous experimental studies have been conducted to identify the treatment potential of ES in eye diseases and to explore the related cellular and molecular mechanisms. In this review, we summarized the in vitro and in vivo evidence related to cellular and tissue response to ES in eye diseases. We highlighted several pathways that may be utilized by ES to impose its effects on the diseased retina. Conclusions Therapeutic effect of ES in retinal degenerative diseases might through preventing neuronal apoptosis, promoting neuronal regeneration, increasing neurotrophic factors production in Müller cells, inhibiting microglial activation, enhancing retinal blood flow, and modulating brain plasticity. Future studies are suggested to analyse changes in specific retinal cells for optimizing the treatment parameters and choosing the best fit ES delivery method in target diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Kwok Fai So
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of Central Nervous System Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Vincent W.H. Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin Chiu
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
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15
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Sharif NA. Degeneration of retina-brain components and connections in glaucoma: Disease causation and treatment options for eyesight preservation. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 3:100037. [PMID: 36685768 PMCID: PMC9846481 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2022.100037] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Eyesight is the most important of our sensory systems for optimal daily activities and overall survival. Patients who experience visual impairment due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are often those afflicted with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) which slowly robs them of their vision unless treatment is administered soon after diagnosis. The hallmark features of POAG and other forms of glaucoma are damaged optic nerve, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and atrophied RGC axons connecting to various brain regions associated with receipt of visual input from the eyes and eventual decoding and perception of images in the visual cortex. Even though increased IOP is the major risk factor for POAG, the disease is caused by many injurious chemicals and events that progress slowly within all components of the eye-brain visual axis. Lowering of IOP mitigates the damage to some extent with existing drugs, surgical and device implantation therapeutic interventions. However, since multifactorial degenerative processes occur during aging and with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, different forms of neuroprotective, nutraceutical and electroceutical regenerative and revitalizing agents and processes are being considered to combat these eye-brain disorders. These aspects form the basis of this short review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A. Sharif
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore,Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA,Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK,Department of Pharmacy Sciences, School of School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
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Peña JS, Vazquez M. Harnessing the Neuroprotective Behaviors of Müller Glia for Retinal Repair. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2022; 27:169. [PMID: 35748245 PMCID: PMC9639582 DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2706169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Progressive and irreversible vision loss in mature and aging adults creates a health and economic burden, worldwide. Despite the advancements of many contemporary therapies to restore vision, few approaches have considered the innate benefits of gliosis, the endogenous processes of retinal repair that precede vision loss. Retinal gliosis is fundamentally driven by Müller glia (MG) and is characterized by three primary cellular mechanisms: hypertrophy, proliferation, and migration. In early stages of gliosis, these processes have neuroprotective potential to halt the progression of disease and encourage synaptic activity among neurons. Later stages, however, can lead to glial scarring, which is a hallmark of disease progression and blindness. As a result, the neuroprotective abilities of MG have remained incompletely explored and poorly integrated into current treatment regimens. Bioengineering studies of the intrinsic behaviors of MG hold promise to exploit glial reparative ability, while repressing neuro-disruptive MG responses. In particular, recent in vitro systems have become primary models to analyze individual gliotic processes and provide a stepping stone for in vivo strategies. This review highlights recent studies of MG gliosis seeking to harness MG neuroprotective ability for regeneration using contemporary biotechnologies. We emphasize the importance of studying gliosis as a reparative mechanism, rather than disregarding it as an unfortunate clinical prognosis in diseased retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan S. Peña
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State
University of New Jersey, Piscataway (08854), New Jersey, USA
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O’Hara-Wright M, Mobini S, Gonzalez-Cordero A. Bioelectric Potential in Next-Generation Organoids: Electrical Stimulation to Enhance 3D Structures of the Central Nervous System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:901652. [PMID: 35656553 PMCID: PMC9152151 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.901652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cell-derived organoid models of the central nervous system represent one of the most exciting areas in in vitro tissue engineering. Classically, organoids of the brain, retina and spinal cord have been generated via recapitulation of in vivo developmental cues, including biochemical and biomechanical. However, a lesser studied cue, bioelectricity, has been shown to regulate central nervous system development and function. In particular, electrical stimulation of neural cells has generated some important phenotypes relating to development and differentiation. Emerging techniques in bioengineering and biomaterials utilise electrical stimulation using conductive polymers. However, state-of-the-art pluripotent stem cell technology has not yet merged with this exciting area of bioelectricity. Here, we discuss recent findings in the field of bioelectricity relating to the central nervous system, possible mechanisms, and how electrical stimulation may be utilised as a novel technique to engineer “next-generation” organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle O’Hara-Wright
- Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Sahba Mobini
- Instituto de Micro y Nanotecnología, IMN-CNM, CSIC (CEI UAM + CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Anai Gonzalez-Cordero,
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Li D, Sun W, Chen H, Lei H, Li X, Liu H, Huang GY, Shi WJ, Ying GG, Luo Y, Xie L. Cyclophosphamide affects eye development and locomotion in zebrafish (Danio rerio). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 805:150460. [PMID: 34818796 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a broad-spectrum anticancer drug and has been frequently detected in aquatic environments due to its incomplete removal by wastewater treatment facilities and slow degradation in waters. Its toxicity in fish remains largely unknown. In this study, zebrafish eggs <4 h post fertilization (hpf) were exposed to CP at the concentrations from 0.5 to 50.0 μg/L until 168 hpf, and its toxicity was evaluated by biochemical, transcriptomic, and behavioral approaches. The results showed that malformation and mortality rates increased with CP concentrations. The 7-day malformation EC50 and mortality (LC30) by CP were calculated to be 86.8 μg/L and 7.5 mg/L, respectively. Inhibited startle response (light to dark) (a minimal of 19%) and reduced swimming velocity (a minimal of 30%) were observed in the CP-exposed larvae. The thicknesses of retinal ganglion layer, inner plexiform layer, and inner nuclear layer in the retina were increased after exposure to CP. Meanwhile, exposure to CP increased karyorrhexis and karyolysis in the liver tissue. Transcriptomic analysis identified 607 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (159 up-regulated and 448 down-regulated). A significant reduction in the transcripts of sgk1 (the FoxO pathway), jun (the MAPK pathway), and diabloa (apoptosis pathway) were observed in the CP-treated larvae. This study has demonstrated that low concentrations of CP cause malformation, reduced swimming capacity, histopathological alterations in the retina and liver tissues, and interference on transcriptional expressions of key genes associated with different pathways. The ecological risk of CP and other anticancer drugs to aquatic organisms merits future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weijun Sun
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hongxing Chen
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Haojun Lei
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiao Li
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hongsong Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guo-Yong Huang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wen-Jun Shi
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yongju Luo
- Guangxi Academy of Fishery Sciences, Nanning 530021, China.
| | - Lingtian Xie
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety, MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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Yu WS, Kwon SH, Agadagba SK, Chan LLH, Wong KH, Lim LW. Neuroprotective Effects and Therapeutic Potential of Transcorneal Electrical Stimulation for Depression. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092492. [PMID: 34572141 PMCID: PMC8466154 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcorneal electrical stimulation (TES) has emerged as a non-invasive neuromodulation approach that exerts neuroprotection via diverse mechanisms, including neurotrophic, neuroplastic, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-glutamatergic, and vasodilation mechanisms. Although current studies of TES have mainly focused on its applications in ophthalmology, several lines of evidence point towards its putative use in treating depression. Apart from stimulating visual-related structures and promoting visual restoration, TES has also been shown to activate brain regions that are involved in mood alterations and can induce antidepressant-like behaviour in animals. The beneficial effects of TES in depression were further supported by its shared mechanisms with FDA-approved antidepressant treatments, including its neuroprotective properties against apoptosis and inflammation, and its ability to enhance the neurotrophic expression. This article critically reviews the current findings on the neuroprotective effects of TES and provides evidence to support our hypothesis that TES possesses antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing-Shan Yu
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.-S.Y.); (S.-H.K.); (K.-H.W.)
| | - So-Hyun Kwon
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.-S.Y.); (S.-H.K.); (K.-H.W.)
| | - Stephen Kugbere Agadagba
- Department of Electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.K.A.); (L.-L.-H.C.)
| | - Leanne-Lai-Hang Chan
- Department of Electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (S.K.A.); (L.-L.-H.C.)
| | - Kah-Hui Wong
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.-S.Y.); (S.-H.K.); (K.-H.W.)
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Lee-Wei Lim
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (W.-S.Y.); (S.-H.K.); (K.-H.W.)
- Correspondence:
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Zhu RL, Fang Y, Yu HH, Chen DF, Yang L, Cho KS. Absence of ephrin-A2/A3 increases retinal regenerative potential for Müller cells in Rhodopsin knockout mice. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1317-1322. [PMID: 33318411 PMCID: PMC8284269 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.301034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Müller cells (MC) are considered dormant retinal progenitor cells in mammals. Previous studies demonstrated ephrin-As act as negative regulators of neural progenitor cells in the retina and brain. It remains unclear whether the lack of ephrin-A2/A3 is sufficient to promote the neurogenic potential of MC. Here we investigated whether the MC is the primary retinal cell type expressing ephrin-A2/A3 and their role on the neurogenic potential of Müller cells. In this study, we showed that ephrin-A2/A3 and their receptor EphA4 were expressed in retina and especially enriched in MC. The level of ephrinAs/EphA4 expression increased as the retina matured that is correlated with the reduced proliferative and progenitor cell potential of MC. Next, we investigated the proliferation in primary MC cultures isolated from wild-type and A2-/- A3-/- mice by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation. We detected a significant increase of EdU+ cells in MC derived from A2-/- A3-/- mice. Next, we investigated the role of ephrin-A2/A3 in mice undergoing photoreceptor degeneration such as Rhodopsin knockout (Rho-/-) mice. To further evaluate the role of ephrin-A2/A3 in MC proliferation in vivo, EdU was injected intraperitoneally to adult wild-type, A2-/- A3-/- , Rho-/- and Rho-/- A2-/- A3-/- mice and the numbers of EdU+ cells distributed among different layers of the retina. EphrinAs/EphA4 expression was upregulated in the retina of Rho-/- mice compared to the wild-type mice. In addition, cultured MC derived from ephrin-A2-/- A3-/- mice also expressed higher levels of progenitor cell markers and exhibited higher proliferation potential than those from wild-type mice. Interestingly, we detected a significant increase of EdU+ cells in the retinas of adult ephrin-A2-/- A3-/- mice mainly in the inner nuclear layer; and these EdU+ cells were co-localized with MC marker, cellular retinaldehyde-binding protein, suggesting some proliferating cells are from MC. In Rhodopsin knockout mice (Rho-/- A2-/- A3-/- mice), a significantly greater amount of EdU+ cells were located in the ciliary body, retina and RPE than that of Rho-/- mice. Comparing between 6 and 12 weeks old Rho-/- A2-/- A3-/- mice, we recorded more EdU+ cells in the outer nuclear layer in the 12-week-old mice undergoing severe retinal degeneration. Taken together, Ephrin-A2/A3 are negative regulators of the proliferative and neurogenic potentials of MC. Absence of ephrin-A2/A3 promotes the migration of proliferating cells into the outer nuclear layer and may lead to retinal cell regeneration. All experimental procedures were approved by the Animal Care and Use Committee at Schepens Eye Research Institute, USA (approval No. S-353-0715) on October 24, 2012.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Lin Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuan Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Hua Yu
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Guangdong Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dong F. Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Chang K, Enayati S, Cho KS, Utheim TP, Chen DF. Non-invasive electrical stimulation as a potential treatment for retinal degenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1558-1559. [PMID: 33433481 PMCID: PMC8323679 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.303015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Chang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sam Enayati
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo; Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Norway
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo; Department of Ophthalmology, Drammen Hospital, Norway
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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