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Kluge N, Reinehr S. Two become one: combination of two risk factors in a new glaucoma animal model. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:982-983. [PMID: 37862198 PMCID: PMC10749588 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nils Kluge
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Reinehr S, Wulf J, Theile J, Schulte KK, Peters M, Fuchshofer R, Dick HB, Joachim SC. In a novel autoimmune and high-pressure glaucoma model a complex immune response is induced. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1296178. [PMID: 38515755 PMCID: PMC10955086 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1296178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The neurodegenerative processes leading to glaucoma are complex. In addition to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), an involvement of immunological mechanisms is most likely. In the new multifactorial glaucoma model, a combination of high IOP and optic nerve antigen (ONA) immunization leads to an enhanced loss of retinal ganglion cells accompanied by a higher number of microglia/macrophages in the inner retina. Here, we aimed to evaluate the immune response in this new model, especially the complement activation and the number of T-cells, for the first time. Further, the microglia/macrophage response was examined in more detail. Methods Six-week-old wildtype (WT+ONA) and βB1-connective tissue growth factor high-pressure mice (CTGF+ONA) were immunized with 1 mg ONA. A wildtype control (WT) and a CTGF group (CTGF) received NaCl instead. Six weeks after immunization, retinae from all four groups were processed for immunohistology, RT-qPCR, and flow cytometry, while serum was used for microarray analyses. Results We noticed elevated numbers of C1q+ cells (classical complement pathway) in CTGF and CTGF+ONA retinae as well as an upregulation of C1qa, C1qb, and C1qc mRNA levels in these groups. While the complement C3 was only increased in CTGF and CTGF+ONA retinae, enhanced numbers of the terminal membrane attack complex were noted in all three glaucoma groups. Flow cytometry and RT-qPCR analyses revealed an enhancement of different microglia/macrophages markers, including CD11b, especially in CTGF and CTGF+ONA retinae. Interestingly, increased retinal mRNA as well as serum levels of the tumor necrosis factor α were found throughout the different glaucoma groups. Lastly, more T-cells could be observed in the ganglion cell layer of the new CTGF+ONA model. Conclusion These results emphasize an involvement of the complement system, microglia/macrophages, and T-cells in glaucomatous disease. Moreover, in the new multifactorial glaucoma model, increased IOP in combination with autoimmune processes seem to enforce an additional T-cell response, leading to a more persistent pathology. Hence, this new model mimics the pathomechanisms occurring in human glaucoma more accurately and could therefore be a helpful tool to find new therapeutic approaches for patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Julien Wulf
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Janine Theile
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kim K. Schulte
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marcus Peters
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - H. Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Reinhard J, Mueller-Buehl C, Wiemann S, Roll L, Luft V, Shabani H, Rathbun DL, Gan L, Kuo CC, Franzen J, Joachim SC, Faissner A. Neural extracellular matrix regulates visual sensory motor integration. iScience 2024; 27:108846. [PMID: 38318351 PMCID: PMC10839651 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108846] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Visual processing depends on sensitive and balanced synaptic neurotransmission. Extracellular matrix proteins in the environment of cells are key modulators in synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. In the present study, we provide evidence that the combined loss of the four extracellular matrix components, brevican, neurocan, tenascin-C, and tenascin-R, in quadruple knockout mice leads to severe retinal dysfunction and diminished visual motion processing in vivo. Remarkably, impaired visual motion processing was accompanied by a developmental loss of cholinergic direction-selective starburst amacrine cells. Additionally, we noted imbalance of inhibitory and excitatory synaptic signaling in the quadruple knockout retina. Collectively, the study offers insights into the functional importance of four key extracellular matrix proteins for retinal function, visual motion processing, and synaptic signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Reinhard
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Cornelius Mueller-Buehl
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Susanne Wiemann
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Lars Roll
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Veronika Luft
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Hamed Shabani
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Daniel L. Rathbun
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Lin Gan
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Chao-Chung Kuo
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Julia Franzen
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Andreas Faissner
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
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Tsai T, Reinehr S, Deppe L, Strubbe A, Kluge N, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Glaucoma Animal Models beyond Chronic IOP Increase. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:906. [PMID: 38255979 PMCID: PMC10815097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex and multifactorial disease defined as the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Besides an elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), other mechanisms play a pivotal role in glaucoma onset and progression. For example, it is known that excitotoxicity, immunological alterations, ischemia, and oxidative stress contribute to the neurodegeneration in glaucoma disease. To study these effects and to discover novel therapeutic approaches, appropriate animal models are needed. In this review, we focus on various glaucoma animal models beyond an elevated IOP. We introduce genetically modified mice, e.g., the optineurin E50K knock-in or the glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST)-deficient mouse. Excitotoxicity can be mimicked by injecting the glutamate analogue N-methyl-D-aspartate intravitreally, which leads to rapid RGC degeneration. To explore the contribution of the immune system, the experimental autoimmune glaucoma model can serve as a useful tool. Here, immunization with antigens led to glaucoma-like damage. The ischemic mechanism can be mimicked by inducing a high IOP for a certain amount of time in rodents, followed by reperfusion. Thereby, damage to the retina and the optic nerve occurs rapidly after ischemia/reperfusion. Lastly, we discuss the importance of optic nerve crush models as model systems for normal-tension glaucoma. In summary, various glaucoma models beyond IOP increase can be utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany; (T.T.); (S.R.); (L.D.); (N.K.); (H.B.D.)
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Reinehr S, Girbig RM, Schulte KK, Theile J, Asaad MA, Fuchshofer R, Dick H, Joachim SC. Enhanced glaucomatous damage accompanied by glial response in a new multifactorial mouse model. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1017076. [PMID: 36733392 PMCID: PMC9887307 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1017076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Glaucoma is a complex, multifactorial neurodegenerative disease, which can lead to blindness if left untreated. It seems that, among others, immune processes, elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), or a combination of these factors are responsible for glaucomatous damage. Here, we combined two glaucoma models to examine if a combination of risk factors (IOP and immune response) results in a more severe damage of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and the optic nerves as well as an additional glia activation. Methods Six-week-old wildtype (WT+ONA) and βB1-Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) mice (CTGF+ONA) were immunized with 1 mg ONA (optic nerve antigen). A WT and a CTGF control group (CTGF) received sodium chloride instead. IOP was measured before and every two weeks after immunization. After six weeks, electroretinogram (ERG) measurements were performed. Then, retinae and optic nerves were processed for (immuno-) histology. Further, mRNA levels of corresponding genes in optic nerve and retina were analyzed via RT-qPCR. Results Six weeks after immunization, the IOP in CTGF and CTGF+ONA mice was increased. The optic nerve of CTGF+ONA animals displayed the most severe cell inflammation, demyelination, and macroglia activation. Fewer numbers of oligodendrocytes were only observed in WT+ONA optic nerves, while more apoptotic cells triggered by the extrinsic pathway could be revealed in all three glaucoma groups. The number of microglia/macrophages was not altered within the optic nerves of all groups. The loss of neuronal cells, especially RGCs was most pronounced in CTGF+ONA retinae in the central part and this was accompanied by an enhanced activation of microglia/macrophages. Also, Müller cell activation could be noted in CTGF and CTGF+ONA retinae. Discussion In this new model, an additive degeneration could be noted in optic nerves as well as in the number of RGCs. These results suggest a potential additive role of high IOP and immune factors in glaucoma development, which will aid for understanding this multifactorial disease more precisely in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany,*Correspondence: Sabrina Reinehr,
| | - Renée M. Girbig
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kim K. Schulte
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Janine Theile
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - M. Ali Asaad
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - H. Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Reinehr S, Safaei A, Grotegut P, Guntermann A, Tsai T, Hahn SA, Kösters S, Theiss C, Marcus K, Dick HB, May C, Joachim SC. Heat Shock Protein Upregulation Supplemental to Complex mRNA Alterations in Autoimmune Glaucoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12101538. [PMID: 36291747 PMCID: PMC9599116 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucomatous optic neuropathy is a common cause for blindness. An elevated intraocular pressure is the main risk factor, but also a contribution of the immune system seems likely. In the experimental autoimmune glaucoma model used here, systemic immunization with an optic nerve homogenate antigen (ONA) leads to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) and optic nerve degeneration. We processed retinae for quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistology 28 days after immunization. Furthermore, we performed mRNA profiling in this model for the first time. We detected a significant RGC loss in the ONA retinae. This was accompanied by an upregulation of mRNA expression of genes belonging to the heat shock protein family. Furthermore, mRNA expression levels of the genes of the immune system, such as C1qa, C1qb, Il18, and Nfkb1, were upregulated in ONA animals. After laser microdissection, inner retinal layers were used for mRNA microarrays. Nine of these probes were significantly upregulated in ONA animals (p < 0.05), including Hba-a1 and Cxcl10, while fifteen probes were significantly downregulated in ONA animals (p < 0.05), such as Gdf15 and Wwox. Taken together, these findings provide further insights into the pivotal role of the immune response in glaucomatous optic neuropathy and could help to identify novel diagnostic or therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Armin Safaei
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Pia Grotegut
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Annika Guntermann
- Department Functional Proteomics, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, ProDi E2.227, Gesundheitscampus 4, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Teresa Tsai
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephan A. Hahn
- Department of Molecular GI Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Steffen Kösters
- Department Functional Proteomics, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, ProDi E2.227, Gesundheitscampus 4, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Katrin Marcus
- Department Functional Proteomics, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, ProDi E2.227, Gesundheitscampus 4, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - H. Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
| | - Caroline May
- Department Functional Proteomics, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, ProDi E2.227, Gesundheitscampus 4, 44801 Bochum, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.M.); (S.C.J.); Tel.: +49-234-24651 (C.M.); Tel.: +49-234-2993156 (S.C.J.)
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892 Bochum, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.M.); (S.C.J.); Tel.: +49-234-24651 (C.M.); Tel.: +49-234-2993156 (S.C.J.)
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Hunziker D, Reinehr S, Palmhof M, Wagner N, Biniasch T, Stute G, Mattei P, Schmitz P, DiGiorgio P, Hert J, Rudolph MG, Benz J, Stihle M, Gsell B, Müller S, Gasser R, Schonhoven N, Ullmer C, Joachim SC. Synthesis, Characterization, and in vivo Evaluation of a Novel Potent Autotaxin-Inhibitor. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:699535. [PMID: 35126098 PMCID: PMC8807399 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.699535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The autotaxin-lysophosphatidic acid (ATX-LPA) signaling pathway plays a role in a variety of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or neurodegeneration. A link to the pathogenesis of glaucoma is suggested by an overactive ATX-LPA axis in aqueous humor samples of glaucoma patients. Analysis of such samples suggests that the ATX-LPA axis contributes to the fibrogenic activity and resistance to aqueous humor outflow through the trabecular meshwork. In order to inhibit or modulate this pathway, we developed a new series of ATX-inhibitors containing novel bicyclic and spirocyclic structural motifs. A potent lead compound (IC50 against ATX: 6 nM) with good in vivo PK, favorable in vitro property, and safety profile was generated. This compound leads to lowered LPA levels in vivo after oral administration. Hence, it was suitable for chronic oral treatment in two rodent models of glaucoma, the experimental autoimmune glaucoma (EAG) and the ischemia/reperfusion models. In the EAG model, rats were immunized with an optic nerve antigen homogenate, while controls received sodium chloride. Retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) was induced by elevating the intraocular pressure (IOP) in one eye to 140 mmHg for 60 min, followed by reperfusion, while the other untreated eye served as control. Retinae and optic nerves were evaluated 28 days after EAG or 7 and 14 days after I/R induction. Oral treatment with the optimized ATX-inhibitor lead to reduced retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss in both glaucoma models. In the optic nerve, the protective effect of ATX inhibition was less effective compared to the retina and only a trend to a weakened neurofilament distortion was detectable. Taken together, these results provide evidence that the dysregulation of the ATX-LPA axis in the aqueous humor of glaucoma patients, in addition to the postulated outflow impairment, might also contribute to RGC loss. The observation that ATX-inhibitor treatment in both glaucoma models did not result in significant IOP increases or decreases after oral treatment indicates that protection from RGC loss due to inhibition of the ATX-LPA axis is independent of an IOP lowering effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hunziker
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marina Palmhof
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Natalie Wagner
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Biniasch
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Gesa Stute
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Patrizio Mattei
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petra Schmitz
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick DiGiorgio
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jérôme Hert
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus G. Rudolph
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joerg Benz
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martine Stihle
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernard Gsell
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Müller
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rodolfo Gasser
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Therapeutic Modalities, Small Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nina Schonhoven
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Pharma Research and Early Development, Ophthalmology Discovery, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Christoph Ullmer, ; Stephanie C. Joachim,
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- *Correspondence: Christoph Ullmer, ; Stephanie C. Joachim,
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Reinehr S, Doerner JD, Mueller-Buehl AM, Koch D, Fuchshofer R, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Cytokine and Complement Response in the Glaucomatous βB1-CTGF Mouse Model. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:718087. [PMID: 34867198 PMCID: PMC8637215 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.718087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex neurodegenerative disease leading to a loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve axons. An activation of the complement system seems to contribute to cell loss in this disease. Hence, we investigated a possible initiation of the complement system and the cytokine response in the βB1-CTGF glaucoma model. In these mice, intraocular pressure is elevated, which is the main glaucoma risk factor in patients, and RGC loss occurs at 15 weeks of age. Therefore, quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistological experiments were performed in 5-, 10-, and 15-week-old βB1-CTGF animals and their corresponding wildtypes (WT) to analyze the expression of several complement system factors. We could show that mRNA levels of the terminal complement pathway components C3 and C5 (Hc) were upregulated at 10 weeks. In accordance, more C3+ and membrane attack complex+ cells were observed in transgenic retinae. Further, the C5a receptor anaphylatoxin receptor (C5ar) and the complement component C5a receptor 1 (C5ar1; CD88) mRNA levels were upregulated in 10- and 15-week-old βB1-CTGF mice. Interestingly, all three activation routes of the complement system were elevated in βB1-CTGF mice at some age. Especially C1q, as a marker of the classical pathway, was significantly increased at all investigated ages. Furthermore, mRNA expression levels of interferon-γ (Infg) were upregulated at 5 weeks, while Cxcl1 and Cxcl2 mRNA levels were upregulated at 10 and 15 weeks. The mRNA levels of the chemokines Cxcl10 were increased at all ages in βB1-CTGF mice. These results lead to the assumption that in these transgenic mice, a complement activation mainly through the classical pathway as well as a cytokine response plays a major role in cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johanna D. Doerner
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ana M. Mueller-Buehl
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dennis Koch
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - H. Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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9
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Activation of Apoptosis in a βB1-CTGF Transgenic Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041997. [PMID: 33671472 PMCID: PMC7922353 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To reveal the pathomechanisms of glaucoma, a common cause of blindness, suitable animal models are needed. As previously shown, retinal ganglion cell and optic nerve degeneration occur in βB1-CTGF mice. Here, we aimed to determine possible apoptotic mechanisms and degeneration of different retinal cells. Hence, retinae were processed for immunohistology (n = 5–9/group) and quantitative real-time PCR analysis (n = 5–7/group) in 5- and 10-week-old βB1-CTGF and wildtype controls. We noted significantly more cleaved caspase 3+ cells in βB1-CTGF retinae at 5 (p = 0.005) and 10 weeks (p = 0.02), and a significant upregulation of Casp3 and Bax/Bcl2 mRNA levels (p < 0.05). Furthermore, more terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL+) cells were detected in transgenic mice at 5 (p = 0.03) and 10 weeks (p = 0.02). Neurofilament H staining (p = 0.01) as well as Nefh (p = 0.02) and Tubb3 (p = 0.009) mRNA levels were significantly decreased at 10 weeks. GABAergic synapse intensity was lower at 5 weeks, while no alterations were noted at 10 weeks. The glutamatergic synapse intensity was decreased at 5 (p = 0.007) and 10 weeks (p = 0.01). No changes were observed for bipolar cells, photoreceptors, and macroglia. We conclude that apoptotic processes and synapse loss precede neuronal death in this model. This slow progression rate makes the βB1-CTGF mice a suitable model to study primary open-angle glaucoma.
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Wiemann S, Reinhard J, Reinehr S, Cibir Z, Joachim SC, Faissner A. Loss of the Extracellular Matrix Molecule Tenascin-C Leads to Absence of Reactive Gliosis and Promotes Anti-inflammatory Cytokine Expression in an Autoimmune Glaucoma Mouse Model. Front Immunol 2020; 11:566279. [PMID: 33162981 PMCID: PMC7581917 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.566279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies demonstrated that retinal damage correlates with a massive remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and reactive gliosis. However, the functional significance of the ECM in retinal neurodegeneration is still unknown. In the present study, we used an intraocular pressure (IOP) independent experimental autoimmune glaucoma (EAG) mouse model to examine the role of the ECM glycoprotein tenascin-C (Tnc). Wild type (WT ONA) and Tnc knockout (KO ONA) mice were immunized with an optic nerve antigen (ONA) homogenate and control groups (CO) obtained sodium chloride (WT CO, KO CO). IOP was measured weekly and electroretinographies were recorded at the end of the study. Ten weeks after immunization, we analyzed retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), glial cells, and the expression of different cytokines in retina and optic nerve tissue in all four groups. IOP and retinal function were comparable in all groups. Although RGC loss was less severe in KO ONA, WT as well as KO mice displayed a significant cell loss after immunization. Compared to KO ONA, less βIII-tubulin+ axons, and downregulated oligodendrocyte markers were noted in WT ONA optic nerves. In retina and optic nerve, we found an enhanced GFAP+ staining area of astrocytes in immunized WT. A significantly higher number of retinal Iba1+ microglia was found in WT ONA, while a lower number of Iba1+ cells was observed in KO ONA. Furthermore, an increased expression of the glial markers Gfap, Iba1, Nos2, and Cd68 was detected in retinal and optic nerve tissue of WT ONA, whereas comparable levels were observed in KO ONA. In addition, pro-inflammatory Tnfa expression was upregulated in WT ONA, but downregulated in KO ONA. Vice versa, a significantly increased anti-inflammatory Tgfb1 expression was measured in KO ONA animals. We conclude that Tnc plays an important role in glial and inflammatory response during retinal neurodegeneration. Our results provide evidence that Tnc is involved in glaucomatous damage by regulating retinal glial activation and cytokine release. Thus, this transgenic EAG mouse model for the first time offers the possibility to investigate IOP-independent glaucomatous damage in direct relation to ECM remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Wiemann
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jacqueline Reinhard
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Zülal Cibir
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C. Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Andreas Faissner
- Department of Cell Morphology and Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Benning L, Reinehr S, Grotegut P, Kuehn S, Stute G, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Synapse and Receptor Alterations in Two Different S100B-Induced Glaucoma-Like Models. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21196998. [PMID: 32977518 PMCID: PMC7583988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21196998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is identified by an irreversible retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and optic nerve damage. Over the past few years, the immune system gained importance in its genesis. In a glaucoma-like animal model with intraocular S100B injection, RGC death occurs at 14 days. In an experimental autoimmune glaucoma model with systemic S100B immunization, a loss of RGCs is accompanied by a decreased synaptic signal at 28 days. Here, we aimed to study synaptic alterations in these two models. In one group, rats received a systemic S100B immunization (n = 7/group), while in the other group, S100B was injected intraocularly (n = 6–7/group). Both groups were compared to appropriate controls and investigated after 14 days. While inhibitory post-synapses remained unchanged in both models, excitatory post-synapses degenerated in animals with intraocular S100B injection (p = 0.03). Excitatory pre-synapses tendentially increased in animals with systemic S100B immunization (p = 0.08) and significantly decreased in intraocular ones (p = 0.04). Significantly more N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (both p ≤ 0.04) as well as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors (both p < 0.03) were observed in S100B animals in both models. We assume that an upregulation of these receptors causes the interacting synapse types to degenerate. Heightened levels of excitatory pre-synapses could be explained by remodeling followed by degeneration.
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12
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Schnichels S, Paquet-Durand F, Löscher M, Tsai T, Hurst J, Joachim SC, Klettner A. Retina in a dish: Cell cultures, retinal explants and animal models for common diseases of the retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 81:100880. [PMID: 32721458 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
For many retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy (DR), the exact pathogenesis is still unclear. Moreover, the currently available therapeutic options are often unsatisfactory. Research designed to remedy this situation heavily relies on experimental animals. However, animal models often do not faithfully reproduce human disease and, currently, there is strong pressure from society to reduce animal research. Overall, this creates a need for improved disease models to understand pathologies and develop treatment options that, at the same time, require fewer or no experimental animals. Here, we review recent advances in the field of in vitro and ex vivo models for AMD, glaucoma, and DR. We highlight the difficulties associated with studies on complex diseases, in which both the initial trigger and the ensuing pathomechanisms are unclear, and then delineate which model systems are optimal for disease modelling. To this end, we present a variety of model systems, ranging from primary cell cultures, over organotypic cultures and whole eye cultures, to animal models. Specific advantages and disadvantages of such models are discussed, with a special focus on their relevance to putative in vivo disease mechanisms. In many cases, a replacement of in vivo research will mean that several different in vitro models are used in conjunction, for instance to analyze and validate causative molecular pathways. Finally, we argue that the analytical decomposition into appropriate cell and tissue model systems will allow making significant progress in our understanding of complex retinal diseases and may furthermore advance the treatment testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Schnichels
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany.
| | - François Paquet-Durand
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marina Löscher
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Teresa Tsai
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - José Hurst
- University Eye Hospital, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephanie C Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Alexa Klettner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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Gassel CJ, Reinehr S, Gomes SC, Dick HB, Joachim SC. Preservation of optic nerve structure by complement inhibition in experimental glaucoma. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 382:293-306. [PMID: 32676862 PMCID: PMC8285355 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is characterized by a progressive damage of the retina and the optic nerve. Despite a huge research interest, the exact pathomechanisms are still unknown. In the experimental autoimmune glaucoma model, rats develop glaucoma-like damage of the retina and the optic nerve after immunization with an optic nerve antigen homogenate (ONA). An early activation of the complement system, even before optic nerve degeneration, was reported in this model. Here, we investigated the effects of a monoclonal antibody against complement factor C5 on optic nerves. Rats were immunized with ONA and compared to controls. In one eye of some ONA animals, the antibody against C5 was intravitreally injected (15 μmol: ONA + C5-I or 25 μmol: ONA + C5-II) before immunization and then every 2 weeks. After 6 weeks, optic nerves were processed for histology (n = 6/group). These analyses demonstrated that the intravitreal therapy reduced the depositions of the membrane attack complex compared to ONA animals (ONA + C5-I: p = 0.005; ONA + C5-II: p = 0.002). Cellular infiltration was significantly reduced in the ONA + C5-I group (p = 0.003), but not in ONA + C5-II tissues (p = 0.41). Furthermore, SMI-32 staining revealed that neurofilament was preserved in both treatment groups compared to ONA optic nerves (both p = 0.002). A decreased amount of microglia was found in treated animals in comparison to the ONA group (ONA + C5-I: p = 0.03; ONA + C5-II: p = 0.009). We observed, for the first time, that a complement system inhibition could prevent optic nerve damage in an autoimmune glaucoma model. Therefore, complement inhibition could serve as a new therapeutic tool for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Gassel
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sabrina Reinehr
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sara C Gomes
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892, Bochum, Germany
| | - H Burkhard Dick
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephanie C Joachim
- Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, In der Schornau 23-25, 44892, Bochum, Germany.
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