1
|
Garg SJ, Hadziahmetovic M. Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Chorioretinal Conditions: A Narrative Review. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:1701-1716. [PMID: 38881707 PMCID: PMC11178081 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s464371] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin involves intravenous administration of a photosensitizer followed by its laser light activation at the target site to inhibit aberrant choroidal vascularization. This narrative review provides an overview of the role verteporfin PDT plays in the management of chorioretinal conditions. A PubMed literature review of all English-language articles published through October 19, 2023, was conducted to identify relevant references. Verteporfin PDT has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration and is often used in combination with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. Additionally, patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, a subtype of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, also benefit from verteporfin PDT combined with a VEGF inhibitor for improving visual acuity. Verteporfin PDT has also been effective in treating patients with peripapillary CNV, as well as eyes with CNV due to ocular histoplasmosis and pathologic myopia. Reduced dose and/or fluence PDT protocols have been effective in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy while reducing adverse effects. In eyes with choroidal hemangioma, tumor regression and visual outcomes have been improved with verteporfin PDT treatment. Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin continues to play an important role in the management of chorioretinal conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunir J Garg
- Retina Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gurubaran IS. Mitochondrial damage and clearance in retinal pigment epithelial cells. Acta Ophthalmol 2024; 102 Suppl 282:3-53. [PMID: 38467968 DOI: 10.1111/aos.16661] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a devastating eye disease that causes permanent vision loss in the central part of the retina, known as the macula. Patients with such severe visual loss face a reduced quality of life and are at a 1.5 times greater risk of death compared to the general population. Currently, there is no cure for or effective treatment for dry AMD. There are several mechanisms thought to underlie the disease, for example, ageing-associated chronic oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, harmful protein aggregation and inflammation. As a way of gaining a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind AMD and thus developing new therapies, we have created a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (PGC1α/NFE2L2) double-knockout (dKO) mouse model that mimics many of the clinical features of dry AMD, including elevated levels of oxidative stress markers, damaged mitochondria, accumulating lysosomal lipofuscin and extracellular drusen-like structures in retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE). In addition, a human RPE cell-based model was established to examine the impact of non-functional intracellular clearance systems on inflammasome activation. In this study, we found that there was a disturbance in the autolysosomal machinery responsible for clearing mitochondria in the RPE cells of one-year-old PGC1α/NFE2L2-deficient mice. The confocal immunohistochemical analysis revealed an increase in autophagosome marker microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B (LC3B) as well as multiple mitophagy markers such as PTE-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) and E3 ubiquitin ligase (PARKIN), along with signs of damaged mitochondria. However, no increase in autolysosome formation was detected, nor was there a colocalization of the lysosomal marker LAMP2 or the mitochondrial marker, ATP synthase β. There was an upregulation of late autolysosomal fusion Ras-related protein (Rab7) in the perinuclear space of RPE cells, together with autofluorescent aggregates. Additionally, we observed an increase in the numbers of Toll-like receptors 3 and 9, while those of NOD-like receptor 3 were decreased in PGC1α/NFE2L2 dKO retinal specimens compared to wild-type animals. There was a trend towards increased complement component C5a and increased involvement of the serine protease enzyme, thrombin, in enhancing the terminal pathway producing C5a, independent of C3. The levels of primary acute phase C-reactive protein and receptor for advanced glycation end products were also increased in the PGC1α/NFE2L2 dKO retina. Furthermore, selective proteasome inhibition with epoxomicin promoted both nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase and mitochondrial-mediated oxidative stress, leading to the release of mitochondrial DNA to the cytosol, resulting in potassium efflux-dependent activation of the absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome and the subsequent secretion of interleukin-1β in ARPE-19 cells. In conclusion, the data suggest that there is at least a relative decrease in mitophagy, increases in the amounts of C5 and thrombin and decreased C3 levels in this dry AMD-like model. Moreover, selective proteasome inhibition evoked mitochondrial damage and AIM2 inflammasome activation in ARPE-19 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iswariyaraja Sridevi Gurubaran
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Medicine Unit, University of Eastern Finland Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kuopio, Northern Savonia, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dastaviz F, Vahidi A, Khosravi T, Khosravi A, Sheikh Arabi M, Bagheri A, Rashidi M, Oladnabi M. Impact of umbelliprenin-containing niosome nanoparticles on VEGF-A and CTGF genes expression in retinal pigment epithelium cells. Int J Ophthalmol 2024; 17:7-15. [PMID: 38239942 PMCID: PMC10754669 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2024.01.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the impact of niosome nanoparticles carrying umbelliprenin (UMB), an anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory plant compound, on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) genes in a human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-like retina-derived cell line. METHODS UMB-containing niosomes were created, optimized, and characterized. RPE-like cells were treated with free UMB and UMB-containing niosomes. The IC50 values of the treatments were determined using an MTT assay. Gene expression of VEGF-A and CTGF was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction after RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis. Niosomes' characteristics, including drug entrapment efficiency, size, dispersion index, and zeta potential were assessed. Free UMB had an IC50 of 96.2 µg/mL, while UMB-containing niosomes had an IC50 of 25 µg/mL. RESULTS Treatment with UMB-containing niosomes and free UMB resulted in a significant reduction in VEGF-A expression compared to control cells (P=0.001). Additionally, UMB-containing niosomes demonstrated a significant reduction in CTGF expression compared to control cells (P=0.05). However, there was no significant reduction in the expression of both genes in cells treated with free UMB. CONCLUSION Both free UMB and niosome-encapsulated UMB inhibits VEGF-A and CTGF genes expression. However, the latter demonstrates significantly greater efficacy, potentially due to the lower UMB dosage and gradual delivery. These findings have implications for anti-angiogenesis therapeutic approaches targeting age-related macular degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Dastaviz
- Stem Cell Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| | - Akram Vahidi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| | - Teymoor Khosravi
- Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| | - Ayyoob Khosravi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Technologies, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sheikh Arabi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Technologies, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| | - Abouzar Bagheri
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 4847191628, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 4847191628, Iran
| | - Morteza Oladnabi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
- Gorgan Congenital Malformations Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 4934174516, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Koçyiğit E, Gövez NE, Arslan S, Ağagündüz D. A narrative review on dietary components and patterns and age-related macular degeneration. Nutr Res Rev 2024:1-28. [PMID: 38221852 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422424000015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most prevalent eye diseases among the ageing population worldwide. It is a leading cause of blindness in individuals over 55, particularly in industrialised Western countries. The prevalence of AMD increases with age, and genetic factors and environmental influences are believed to contribute to its development. Among the environmental factors, diet plays a significant role in AMD. This review explores the association between dietary components, dietary patterns and AMD. Various nutrients, non-nutrient substances and dietary models that have the potential to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, which are underlying mechanisms of AMD, are discussed. Consuming fruits, vegetables, fish and seafood, whole grains, olive oil, nuts and low-glycaemic-index foods has been highlighted as beneficial for reducing the risk of AMD. Adhering to the Mediterranean diet, which encompasses these elements, can be recommended as a dietary pattern for AMD. Furthermore, the modulation of the gut microbiota through dietary interventions and probiotics has shown promise in managing AMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emine Koçyiğit
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ordu University, Ordu, Türkiye
| | - Nazlıcan Erdoğan Gövez
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Sabriye Arslan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Duygu Ağagündüz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Choi W, Nensel AK, Droho S, Fattah MA, Mokashi-Punekar S, Swygart DI, Burton ST, Schwartz GW, Lavine JA, Gianneschi NC. Thrombospondin-1 proteomimetic polymers exhibit anti-angiogenic activity in a neovascular age-related macular degeneration mouse model. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi8534. [PMID: 37831763 PMCID: PMC10575579 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi8534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Current therapy includes monthly intraocular injections of anti-VEGF antibodies, which are ineffective in up to one third of patients. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) inhibits angiogenesis via CD36 binding, and its down-regulated expression is negatively associated with the onset of nAMD. Here, we describe TSP1 mimetic protein-like polymers (TSP1 PLPs). TSP1 PLPs bind CD36 with high affinity, resist degradation, show prolonged intraocular half-lives (13.1 hours), have no toxicity at relevant concentrations in vivo (40 μM), and are more efficacious in ex vivo choroidal sprouting assays compared to the peptide sequence and Eylea (aflibercept), the current standard of care anti-VEGF treatment. Furthermore, PLPs exhibit superior in vivo efficacy in a mouse model for nAMD compared to control PLPs consisting of scrambled peptide sequences, using fluorescein angiography and immunofluorescence. Since TSP-1 inhibits angiogenesis by VEGF-dependent and independent mechanisms, TSP1 PLPs are a potential therapeutic for patients with anti-VEGF treatment-resistant nAMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wonmin Choi
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Ashley K. Nensel
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Steven Droho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mara A. Fattah
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Soumitra Mokashi-Punekar
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - David I. Swygart
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Weinberg School of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Spencer T. Burton
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Greg W. Schwartz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Weinberg School of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeremy A. Lavine
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nathan C. Gianneschi
- Department of Chemistry, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bhat M, Shirzad S, Fofana ARK, Gobeil F, Couture R, Vaucher E. Prevention of Inflammation, Neovascularization, and Retinal Dysfunction by Kinin B 1 Receptor Antagonism in a Mouse Model of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6213. [PMID: 37834856 PMCID: PMC10573521 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196213] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) contributes to vascular inflammation and neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly via the kinin B1 receptor (B1R). The aim of the present study was to determine the protective effects of the topical administration of the B1R antagonist (R-954) on inflammation, neovascularization, and retinal dysfunction in a murine model of neovascular AMD. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was induced in C57BL6 mice using an argon laser. A treatment with ocular drops of R-954 (100 μg/15 μL, twice daily in both eyes), or vehicle, was started immediately on day 0, for 7, 14, or 21 days. CNV, invasive microglia, and B1R immunoreactive glial cells, as well as electroretinography alterations, were observed within the retina and choroid of the CNV group but not in the control group. The staining of B1R was abolished by R-954 treatment as well as the proliferation of microglia. R-954 treatment prevented the CNV development (volume: 20 ± 2 vs. 152 ± 5 × 104 µm3 in R-954 vs. saline treatment). R-954 also significantly decreased photoreceptor and bipolar cell dysfunction (a-wave amplitude: -47 ± 20 vs. -34 ± 14 µV and b-wave amplitude: 101 ± 27 vs. 64 ± 17 µV in R-954 vs. saline treatment, day 7) as well as angiogenesis tufts in the retina. These results suggest that self-administration of R-954 by eye-drop treatment could be a promising therapy in AMD to preserve retinal health and vision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Menakshi Bhat
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1P1, Canada; (M.B.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - Shima Shirzad
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1P1, Canada; (M.B.)
| | | | - Fernand Gobeil
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
| | - Réjean Couture
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - Elvire Vaucher
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1P1, Canada; (M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Salas A, Badia A, Fontrodona L, Zapata M, García-Arumí J, Duarri A. Neovascular Progression and Retinal Dysfunction in the Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization Mouse Model. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2445. [PMID: 37760886 PMCID: PMC10525599 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092445] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The mouse model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (LI-CNV) has been widely used to study neovascular age-related macular degeneration; however, it still lacks a comprehensive characterization. Here, CNV was induced in the eyes of 12-week-old C57BL/6J male mice by argon laser irradiation. We studied the CNV lesion progression of an LI-CNV mouse cohort by using multimodal imaging (color fundus, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescence angiography, focal electroretinography features for 14 days, and related cytokines, angiogenic factors, and reactive gliosis for 5 days. CNV lesions involving the rupture of the Bruch's membrane were confirmed using funduscopy and OCT after laser photocoagulation. During the initial stage, from the CNV induction until day 7, CNV lesions presented leakage observed by using fluorescence angiography and a typical hyperreflective area with cell infiltration, subretinal leakage, and degeneration of photoreceptors observed through OCT. This correlated with decreased retinal responses to light. Moreover, inflammatory and angiogenic markers were reduced to basal levels in the first 5 days of CNV progression. In contrast, reactive gliosis and the VEGF expression in retinal sections were sustained, with infiltration of endothelial cells in the subretinal space. In the second stage, between days 7 and 14 post-induction, we observed stabilization of the CNV lesions, a hyperfluorescent area corresponding to the formation of fibrosis, and a partial rescue of retinal function. These findings suggest that the LI-CNV lesion development goes through an acute phase during the first seven days following induction, and then the CNV lesion stabilizes. According to these results, this model is suitable for screening anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic drugs in the early stages of LI-CNV. At the same time, it is more convenient for screening anti-fibrotic compounds in the later stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Salas
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Badia
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Fontrodona
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Zapata
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José García-Arumí
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vall d’Hebron Hospital Universitari, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Duarri
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liang H, Wu Q, Guo XV, Chan L, Mao T, Stella C, Guilbaud A, Camperi J. Comprehensive Analysis of Photoreceptor Outer Segments: Flow Cytometry Characterization and Stress-Driven Impact on Retinal Pigment Epithelium Phagocytosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12889. [PMID: 37629070 PMCID: PMC10454439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Phagocytosis is one of the key functions of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which maintain photoreceptor health by removing photoreceptor outer segments (POSs) that are regularly shed. A deficiency in RPE function to phagocytose POSs may lead to vision loss in inherited retinal diseases and eventually to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with geographic atrophy. Significant progress has been made in the field of cell replacement therapy for AMD using stem-cell-derived RPE. To test their function, RPE cells are incubated with purified bovine POSs for the demonstration of efficient binding, internalization, and digestion of POSs. Here, we present an image-based method to measure phagocytosis activity by using POSs labeled with a pH-sensitive fluorescent dye, which has low fluorescence at neutral pH outside of the cell and high fluorescence at low pH inside the phagosome. Further, we introduce a unique flow-cytometry-based method for the characterization of POSs by measuring specific markers for POSs such as rhodopsin and opsin. Using this method, we demonstrated a comparable quality of several bovine POS isolation batches and a reliable assessment of POS quality on RPE phagocytosis assay performance when subjected to different stress conditions. This work provides new tools to characterize POSs and insight into RPE phagocytosis assay development for the functional evaluation of RPE cells in the field of cell replacement therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoqian Liang
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Qiang Wu
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Xinzheng Victor Guo
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Linda Chan
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Tin Mao
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Cinzia Stella
- Protein Analytical Chemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA;
| | - Axel Guilbaud
- Protein Analytical Chemistry, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA;
| | - Julien Camperi
- Cell Therapy Engineering and Development, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA; (H.L.); (Q.W.); (X.V.G.); (L.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lenin RR, Koh YH, Zhang Z, Yeo YZ, Parikh BH, Seah I, Wong W, Su X. Dysfunctional Autophagy, Proteostasis, and Mitochondria as a Prelude to Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108763. [PMID: 37240109 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108763] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell dysfunction is a key driving force of AMD. RPE cells form a metabolic interface between photoreceptors and choriocapillaris, performing essential functions for retinal homeostasis. Through their multiple functions, RPE cells are constantly exposed to oxidative stress, which leads to the accumulation of damaged proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and cellular organelles, including mitochondria. As miniature chemical engines of the cell, self-replicating mitochondria are heavily implicated in the aging process through a variety of mechanisms. In the eye, mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly associated with several diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in millions of people globally. Aged mitochondria exhibit decreased rates of oxidative phosphorylation, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and increased numbers of mitochondrial DNA mutations. Mitochondrial bioenergetics and autophagy decline during aging because of insufficient free radical scavenger systems, the impairment of DNA repair mechanisms, and reductions in mitochondrial turnover. Recent research has uncovered a much more complex role of mitochondrial function and cytosolic protein translation and proteostasis in AMD pathogenesis. The coupling of autophagy and mitochondrial apoptosis modulates the proteostasis and aging processes. This review aims to summarise and provide a perspective on (i) the current evidence of autophagy, proteostasis, and mitochondrial dysfunction in dry AMD; (ii) current in vitro and in vivo disease models relevant to assessing mitochondrial dysfunction in AMD, and their utility in drug screening; and (iii) ongoing clinical trials targeting mitochondrial dysfunction for AMD therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raji Rajesh Lenin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Department of Medical Research, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Yi Hui Koh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Zheting Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 11 Mandalay Road, Experimental Medicine Building, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Yan Zhuang Yeo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Bhav Harshad Parikh
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Ivan Seah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Wendy Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Xinyi Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block Level 7, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), The Academia, 20 College Road, Level 6 Discovery Tower, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
An Overview towards Zebrafish Larvae as a Model for Ocular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065387. [PMID: 36982479 PMCID: PMC10048880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the obvious morphological differences in the visual system, zebrafish share a similar architecture and components of the same embryonic origin as humans. The zebrafish retina has the same layered structure and cell types with similar metabolic and phototransduction support as humans, and is functional 72 h after fertilization, allowing tests of visual function to be performed. The zebrafish genomic database supports genetic mapping studies as well as gene editing, both of which are useful in the ophthalmological field. It is possible to model ocular disorders in zebrafish, as well as inherited retinal diseases or congenital or acquired malformations. Several approaches allow the evaluation of local pathological processes derived from systemic disorders, such as chemical exposure to produce retinal hypoxia or glucose exposure to produce hyperglycemia, mimicking retinopathy of prematurity or diabetic retinopathy, respectively. The pathogenesis of ocular infections, autoimmune diseases, or aging can also be assessed in zebrafish larvae, and the preserved cellular and molecular immune mechanisms can be assessed. Finally, the zebrafish model for the study of the pathologies of the visual system complements certain deficiencies in experimental models of mammals since the regeneration of the zebrafish retina is a valuable tool for the study of degenerative processes and the discovery of new drugs and therapies.
Collapse
|
11
|
Development of a CRISPRi Human Retinal Pigmented Epithelium Model for Functional Study of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Genes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043417. [PMID: 36834828 PMCID: PMC9962760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a blinding disease characterised by dysfunction of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) which culminates in disruption or loss of the neurosensory retina. Genome-wide association studies have identified >60 genetic risk factors for AMD; however, the expression profile and functional role of many of these genes remain elusive in human RPE. To facilitate functional studies of AMD-associated genes, we developed a human RPE model with integrated CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) for gene repression by generating a stable ARPE19 cell line expressing dCas9-KRAB. We performed transcriptomic analysis of the human retina to prioritise AMD-associated genes and selected TMEM97 as a candidate gene for knockdown study. Using specific sgRNAs, we showed that knockdown of TMEM97 in ARPE19 reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and exerted a protective effect against oxidative stress-induced cell death. This work provides the first functional study of TMEM97 in RPE and supports a potential role of TMEM97 in AMD pathobiology. Our study highlights the potential for using CRISPRi to study AMD genetics, and the CRISPRi RPE platform generated here provided a useful in vitro tool for functional studies of AMD-associated genes.
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Y, Han S, Chen J, Sun J, Sun X. PFKFB3 knockdown attenuates Amyloid β-Induced microglial activation and retinal pigment epithelium disorders in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 115:109691. [PMID: 36638665 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by progressive accumulation of drusen deposits and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) disorders. As the main component of drusen, amyloid β (Aβ) plays a critical role in activating microglia and causing neuroinflammation in AMD pathogenesis. However, the role of activated microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in RPE senescence remains unclear. Recent evidence indicates that inflammatory microglia are glycolytic and driven by an increase in 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), an enzyme described as the master regulator of glycolysis. In this study, we mimicked the retinal inflammatory microenvironment of AMD by intravitreal injection of oligomeric Aβ1-40 in mice, which resulted in activation of microglia and upregulation of PFKFB3. RNA sequencing was performed to evaluate PFKFB3-mediated microglial activation. The effect of microglial activation on RPE disorders was assessed using gene knockout experiments, immunofluorescence, CCK-8 assay, and β-galactosidase staining. Intravitreal Aβ1-40 injection induced proinflammatory activation of microglia by upregulating PFKFB3 and resulted in RPE disorders, which was verified in heterozygous Pfkfb3-deficient mice (Pfkfb3+/-) mice, Aβ1-40-activated microglial cell line BV2, and co-culture of RPE cell line ARPE19. RNA sequencing revealed that PFKFB3 mainly affected innate immune processes during Aβ1-40-induced retinal inflammation. PFKFB3 knockdown inhibited RPE disorders and rescued the retinal structure and function. Overall, the modulation of PFKFB3-mediated microglial glycolysis and activation is a promising strategy for AMD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusong Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyang Han
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junran Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Ophthalmic Diseases, Shanghai, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pigment epithelial detachment composition indices (PEDCI) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Sci Rep 2023; 13:68. [PMID: 36593323 PMCID: PMC9807558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We provide an automated analysis of the pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and estimate areas of serous, neovascular, and fibrous tissues within PEDs. A retrospective analysis of high-definition spectral-domain OCT B-scans from 43 eyes of 37 patients with nAMD with presence of fibrovascular PED was done. PEDs were manually segmented and then filtered using 2D kernels to classify pixels within the PED as serous, neovascular, or fibrous. A set of PED composition indices were calculated on a per-image basis using relative PED area of serous (PEDCI-S), neovascular (PEDCI-N), and fibrous (PEDCI-F) tissue. Accuracy of segmentation and classification within the PED were graded in masked fashion. Mean overall intra-observer repeatability and inter-observer reproducibility were 0.86 ± 0.07 and 0.86 ± 0.03 respectively using intraclass correlations. The mean graded scores were 96.99 ± 8.18, 92.12 ± 7.97, 91.48 ± 8.93, and 92.29 ± 8.97 for segmentation, serous, neovascular, and fibrous respectively. Mean (range) PEDCI-S, PEDCI-N, and PEDCI-F were 0.253 (0-0.952), 0.554 (0-1), and 0.193 (0-0.693). A kernel-based image processing approach demonstrates potential for approximating PED composition. Evaluating follow up changes during nAMD treatment with respect to PEDCI would be useful for further clinical applications.
Collapse
|
14
|
Recent Advances in Proteomics-Based Approaches to Studying Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314759. [PMID: 36499086 PMCID: PMC9735888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314759] [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: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common ocular disease characterized by degeneration of the central area of the retina in the elderly population. Progression and response to treatment are influenced by genetic and non-genetic factors. Proteomics is a powerful tool to study, at the molecular level, the mechanisms underlying the progression of the disease, to identify new therapeutic targets and to establish biomarkers to monitor progression and treatment effectiveness. In this work, we systematically review the use of proteomics-based approaches for the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of AMD, as well as the progression of the disease and on-treatment patient monitoring. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) reporting guidelines were followed. Proteomic approaches have identified key players in the onset of the disease, such as complement components and proteins involved in lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, but also in the progression to advanced stages, including factors related to extracellular matrix integrity and angiogenesis. Although anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF)-based therapy has been crucial in the treatment of neovascular AMD, it is necessary to deepen our understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms to move forward to next-generation therapies for later-stage forms of this multifactorial disease.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lee S, Kim S, Jeon JS. Microfluidic outer blood-retinal barrier model for inducing wet age-related macular degeneration by hypoxic stress. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4359-4368. [PMID: 36254466 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00672c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a severe ophthalmic disease that develops in the outer blood-retinal barrier (oBRB), involving two types of cells, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choriocapillaris endothelium (CCE). Unfortunately, the pathogenesis of AMD is unclear, and the risk of the only effective therapy (Anti-VEGF injection) has been consistently argued. Also, since oBRB is hard to observe in vivo, an in vitro model for the pathological study is necessary. Here, we propose an advanced oBRB model, enhanced in two major ways: fully vascularized CCE and the in vivo analogous distance between RPE and CCE. Our model consists of an RPE (ARPE-19) monolayer with adjacent CCE (HUVEC) embedded fibrin gel in the microfluidic chip and required four days to construct an oBRB. Notably, the intercellular distance was tuned to the in vivo scale (<100 μm) without any extraneous scaffold in between. Thus, the two cell layers can interact freely through the extracellular matrix (ECM) in vivo. This is significant as wet AMD is mainly developed through broken intercellular interaction. Thanks to this in vivo similarity, the model incubated under hypoxic conditions, similar to an oxygen-induced retinopathy animal model, showed upregulated vascularization comparable to the AMD condition. We envisage that our model can be used to assist the investigation of AMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seokhun Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Seunggyu Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Jessie S Jeon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shen Y, Wang H, Xu X, Chen C, Zhu S, Cheng L, Fang J, Liu K, Xu X. Metabolomics study of treatment response to conbercept of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:991879. [PMID: 36199690 PMCID: PMC9527301 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) are major causes of blindness in aged people. 30% of the patients show unsatisfactory response to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs. This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum metabolome and treatment response to anti-VEGF therapy. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted between March 2017 and April 2019 in 13 clinical sites in China. The discovery group were enrolled from Shanghai General Hospital. The validation group consisted of patients from the other 12 sites. Participants received at least one intravitreal injection of 0.5 mg anti-VEGF drug, conbercept, and were divided into two groups - responders and non-responders. Serum samples of both groups were processed for UHPLC-MS/MS analysis. We constructed principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models to investigate the metabolic differences between two groups using SIMCA-P. Area under curve (AUC) was calculated to screen the biomarkers to predict treatment response. Metabolites sub-classes and enriched pathways were obtained using MetaboAnalyst5.0. Results: 219 eyes from 219 patients (nAMD = 126; PCV = 93) were enrolled. A total of 248 metabolites were detected. PCA and PLS-DA models of the discovery group demonstrated that the metabolic profiles of responders and non-responders clearly differed. Eighty-five differential metabolites were identified, including sub-classes of diacylglycerophosphocholines, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), fatty acids, phosphocholine, etc. Responders and non-responders differed most significantly in metabolism of LPC (p = 7.16 × 10^-19) and diacylglycerophosphocholine (p = 6.96 × 10^-17). LPC 18:0 exhibited the highest AUC, which is 0.896 with 95% confidence internal between 0.833 and 0.949, to discriminate responders. The predictive accuracy of LPC 18:0 was 72.4% in the validation group. Conclusions: This study suggests that differential metabolites may be useful for guiding treatment options for nAMD and PCV. Metabolism of LPC and diacylglycerophosphocholine were found to affect response to conbercept treatment. LPC 18:0 was a potential biomarker to discriminate responders from non-responders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinchen Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanying Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyin Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaopin Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Fang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Liu, ; Junwei Fang,
| | - Kun Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Liu, ; Junwei Fang,
| | - Xun Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Patel PN, Patel PA, Land MR, Bakerkhatib-Taha I, Ahmed H, Sheth V. Targeting the Complement Cascade for Treatment of Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1884. [PMID: 36009430 PMCID: PMC9405256 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly population. AMD is characterized in its late form by neovascularization (wet type) or geographic atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium cell layer (dry type). Regarding the latter type, there is growing evidence supporting an association between the pathophysiology of dry AMD and key proteins in the complement cascade. The complement cascade works as a central part of the innate immune system by defending against foreign pathogens and modified self-tissues. Through three distinct pathways, a series of plasma and membrane-associated serum proteins are activated upon identification of a foreign entity. Several of these proteins have been implicated in the development and progression of dry AMD. Potential therapeutic targets include C1q, C3, C5, complement factors (B, D, H, I), membrane attack complex, and properdin. In this review, we provide an understanding of the role of the complement system in dry AMD and discuss the emerging therapies in early phase clinical trials. The tentative hope is that these drugs may offer the potential to intervene at earlier stages in dry AMD pathogenesis, thereby preventing progression to late disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prem N. Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Parth A. Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Matthew R. Land
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | | | - Harris Ahmed
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Veeral Sheth
- University Retina and Macula Associates, Oak Forest, IL 60452, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Discovering the Potential of Natural Antioxidants in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15010101. [PMID: 35056157 PMCID: PMC8777838 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010101] [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: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease associated with anatomical changes in the inner retina. Despite tremendous advances in clinical care, there is currently no cure for AMD. This review aims to evaluate the published literature on the therapeutic roles of natural antioxidants in AMD. A literature search of PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed articles published between 1 January 2011 and 31 October 2021 was undertaken. A total of 82 preclinical and 18 clinical studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. We identified active compounds, carotenoids, extracts and polysaccharides, flavonoids, formulations, vitamins and whole foods with potential therapeutic roles in AMD. We evaluated the integral cellular signaling pathways including the activation of antioxidant pathways and angiogenesis pathways orchestrating their mode of action. In conclusion, we examined the therapeutic roles of natural antioxidants in AMD which warrant further study for application in clinical practice. Our current understanding is that natural antioxidants have the potential to improve or halt the progression of AMD, and tailoring therapeutics to the specific disease stages may be the key to preventing irreversible vision loss.
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen Q, Tang L, Zhang Y, Wan C, Yu X, Dong Y, Chen X, Wang X, Li N, Xin G, Zhang M, Chen Z, Niu H, Huang W. STING up-regulates VEGF expression in oxidative stress-induced senescence of retinal pigment epithelium via NF-κB/HIF-1α pathway. Life Sci 2022; 293:120089. [PMID: 35007563 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Aging-related dysfunction of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is the main pathogenic factors for pathological angiogenesis due to dysregulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in retinal vascular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, the molecular mechanism behind the up-regulation of VEGF in senescent RPE is still blurred. MATERIALS AND METHODS As oxidative damage is the key cause of RPE dysfunction, we employed a model of oxidative stress-induced premature senescence of ARPE-19 to explore the effect of senescent RPE on VEGF. KEY FINDINGS We reported that senescent ARPE-19 up-regulated VEGF expression under both short-term and prolonged H2O2 treatment, accompanying with increased HIF-1α, the key mediator of VEGF. STING signaling, which could be activated by oxidative stress-damaged DNA, was also observed to be increased in senescent ARPE-19 treated with H2O2. And the inhibition of STING significantly reduced HIF-1α expression to alleviate the up-regulation of VEGF. NF-κB was also shown to be involved in the regulation of VEGF in senescent ARPE-19 in response to STING signaling. Furthermore, oxidative stress impaired the lysosomal clearance of damaged DNA to enhance STING signaling, thereby up-regulating VEGF expression in senescent RPE. SIGNIFICANCE Our data provide evidence that STING plays an important role in VEGF regulation in senescent RPE induced by oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqiu Chen
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Research Core Facility of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chengyu Wan
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiuxian Yu
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuman Dong
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoting Chen
- Animal Experimental Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xueling Wang
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ning Li
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guang Xin
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meixia Zhang
- Macular Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hai Niu
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wen Huang
- Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology, Tissue-orientated Property of Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Alfonsetti M, Castelli V, d’Angelo M, Benedetti E, Allegretti M, Barboni B, Cimini A. Looking for In Vitro Models for Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10334. [PMID: 34638674 PMCID: PMC8508697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Retina is a layered structure of the eye, composed of different cellular components working together to produce a complex visual output. Because of its important role in visual function, retinal pathologies commonly represent the main causes of visual injury and blindness in the industrialized world. It is important to develop in vitro models of retinal diseases to use them in first screenings before translating in in vivo experiments and clinics. For this reason, it is important to develop bidimensional (2D) models that are more suitable for drug screening and toxicological studies and tridimensional (3D) models, which can replicate physiological conditions, for investigating pathological mechanisms leading to visual loss. This review provides an overview of the most common retinal diseases, relating to in vivo models, with a specific focus on alternative 2D and 3D in vitro models that can replicate the different cellular and matrix components of retinal layers, as well as injury insults that induce retinal disease and loss of the visual function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Alfonsetti
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (V.C.); (M.d.); (E.B.)
| | - Vanessa Castelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (V.C.); (M.d.); (E.B.)
| | - Michele d’Angelo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (V.C.); (M.d.); (E.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Benedetti
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (V.C.); (M.d.); (E.B.)
| | | | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (M.A.); (V.C.); (M.d.); (E.B.)
- Department of Biology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Maturation and Protection Effect of Retinal Tissue-Derived Bioink for 3D Cell Printing Technology. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13070934. [PMID: 34201702 PMCID: PMC8309106 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13070934] [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: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a leading cause of incurable vision loss and blindness. The increasing incidence of retinal degeneration has triggered research into the development of in vitro retinal models for drug development and retinal alternatives for transplantation. However, the complex retinal structure and the retinal microenvironment pose serious challenges. Although 3D cell printing technology has been widely used in tissue engineering, including in vitro model development and regeneration medicine, currently available bioinks are insufficient to recapitulate the complex extracellular matrix environment of the retina. Therefore, in this study, we developed a retinal decellularized extracellular matrix (RdECM) from the porcine retina and evaluated its characteristics. The RdECM conserved the ECM components from the native retina without cellular components. Then, we mixed the RdECM with collagen to form a bioink and confirmed its suitability for 3D cell printing. We further studied the effect of the RdECM bioink on the differentiation of Muller cells. The retinal protective effect of the RdECM bioink was confirmed through a retinal degeneration animal model. Thus, we believe that the RdECM bioink is a promising candidate for retinal tissue engineering.
Collapse
|
23
|
Li C, Li J, Chen X, Lu P. Laser-induced choroidal neovascularization: A case report and some reflection on animal models for age-related macular degeneration. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e26239. [PMID: 34115011 PMCID: PMC8202587 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000026239] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Laser induced maculopathy includes retinal photoreceptor disruption, macular hole, macular hemorrhage, and rarely choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Here we report a case of laser induced CNV that was treated by intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection and resulted in visual improvement and CNV resolution during 1-year follow up. In addition, the case of laser induced CNV treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections are reviewed for the first time in literature. PATIENT CONCERNS A 7-year-old boy presented to our department with blurred vision in his right eye for 2 months. The symptom immediately happened after the boy staring at the laser beam for a few seconds. Examination of ocular fundus with slit lamp showed yellowish lesion in macula in his right eye. DIAGNOSES CNV was confirmed by fundus examinations, including color fundus photograph, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography angiography. INTERVENTIONS After the diagnosis of laser induced CNV, intravitreal ranibizumab (LUCENTIS, NOVARTIS) injection was performed. OUTCOMES After 1 injection of intravitreal ranibizumab, the best corrected visual acuity improved from 20/50 to 30/50 and CNV gradually regressed during 1-year follow up. LESSONS For young patients with laser induced CNV, intravitreal anti-VEGF injections may be helpful in visual improvement and CNV regression. Moreover, age seems to be a significant factor thus we propose that old animals may be more appropriate for laser induced CNV animal models of age-related macular degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caixin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University
| | - Jianqing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University
| | - Xinzhu Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Suzhou EENT Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Peirong Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Van Hove I, Van Bergen T, Etienne I, Holgado A, Afonina IS, Beyaert R, Feyen JH, Hu TT. IL-33trap-mediated IL-33 neutralization does not exacerbate choroidal neovascularization, but fails to protect against retinal degeneration in a dry age-related macular degeneration model. Exp Eye Res 2021; 207:108608. [PMID: 33930400 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108608] [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: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
The progressive and sight-threatening disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a growing public health concern due to ageing demographics, with the highest unmet medical need for the advanced stage of dry AMD, geographic atrophy. The pathogenesis underlying AMD is driven by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. There is ample evidence that inflammation is strongly involved in AMD development. Interleukin-33 (IL-33) has been proposed to be critically involved in retinal degeneration, but a protective role in eye pathophysiology was also demonstrated. The current study investigated the therapeutic potential of IL-33trap, a novel IL-33-neutralizing biologic, in dry AMD/geographic atrophy and, based on controversial data regarding the protective versus detrimental functions of IL-33 in neovascularization, evaluated the risk of progression to wet AMD by IL-33 neutralization. Repeated intravitreal (IVT) injections of IL-33trap in the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization model did not exacerbate neovascularization or leakage, while it significantly inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration in the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. On the contrary, IVT treatment with IL-33trap significantly induced retinal inflammation and could not prevent retinopathy induction in the mouse sodium iodate (NaIO3) model. Overall, these data suggest a complex and dichotomous role of IL-33 in eye pathology and indicate that IL-33 neutralization is not able to prevent onset and progression of dry AMD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inge Van Hove
- Oxurion NV, Gaston Geenslaan 1, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium.
| | | | | | - Aurora Holgado
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Inna S Afonina
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi Beyaert
- Unit of Molecular Signal Transduction in Inflammation, VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean Hm Feyen
- Oxurion NV, Gaston Geenslaan 1, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sharma P, Mittal S. Nanotechnology: revolutionizing the delivery of drugs to treat age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 18:1131-1149. [PMID: 33691548 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1888925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive retinal disease that degrades the eye's ability to grasp visual acuity. The antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies have made significant strides in improving the quality of life, and there is a continued opportunity to improve delivery, outcomes, and patient convenience and compliance. The treatments available could gain better clinical outcome from novel therapeutics through nanotechnology application.Areas covered: This review summarizes AMD biology and the pathophysiology of the disease along with the successes and limitations of available therapies. It further discusses the promising nanotechnology modalities that could become the cornerstone of future AMD research for improving delivery and reducing frequency of administration thus, enabling development of novel therapeutics.Expert opinion: The robust translation from preclinical work to clinical outcome for AMD remains an unmet need. Continuing to investigate in deeper understanding of biology and advancing high-quality targets into the clinic in combination with the application of advanced nanotechnology to design patient-centric offerings for both dry and wet AMD is needed. Because of the lack of regulatory precedence, and challenging manufacturing and supply chain need, the future of nano-enabled technologies is challenging but presents exciting treatment options for AMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sachin Mittal
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc, Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|