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Durmaz E, Dribika L, Kutnyanszky M, Mead B. Utilizing extracellular vesicles as a drug delivery system in glaucoma and RGC degeneration. J Control Release 2024; 372:209-220. [PMID: 38880332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Retinal diseases are the leading cause of blindness, resulting in irreversible degeneration and death of retinal neurons. One such cell type, the retinal ganglion cell (RGC), is responsible for connecting the retina to the rest of the brain through its axons that make up the optic nerve and is the primary cell lost in glaucoma and traumatic optic neuropathy. To date, different therapeutic strategies have been investigated to protect RGCs from death and preserve vision, yet currently available strategies are restricted to treating neuron loss by reducing intraocular pressure. A major barrier identified by these studies is drug delivery to RGCs, which is in large part due to drug stability, short duration time at target, low delivery efficiency, and undesired off-target effects. Therefore, a delivery system to deal with these problems is needed to ensure maximum benefit from the candidate therapeutic material. Extracellular vesicles (EV), nanocarriers released by all cells, are lipid membranes encapsulating RNAs, proteins, and lipids. As they naturally shuttle these encapsulated compounds between cells for communicative purposes, they may be exploitable and offer opportunities to overcome hurdles in retinal drug delivery, including drug stability, drug molecular weight, barriers in the retina, and drug adverse effects. Here, we summarize the potential of an EV drug delivery system, discussing their superiorities and potential application to target RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmahan Durmaz
- Cardiff University, School of Optometry & Vision Sciences, Cardiff, UK.
| | | | | | - Ben Mead
- Cardiff University, School of Optometry & Vision Sciences, Cardiff, UK.
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2
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Zhao N, Hao XN, Huang JM, Song ZM, Tao Y. Crosstalk Between Microglia and Müller Glia in the Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Role and Therapeutic Value of Neuroinflammation. Aging Dis 2024; 15:1132-1154. [PMID: 37728589 PMCID: PMC11081163 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0823-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive neurodegeneration disease that causes photoreceptor demise and vision impairments. In AMD pathogenesis, the primary death of retinal neurons always leads to the activation of resident microglia. The migration of activated microglia to the ongoing retinal lesion and their morphological transformation from branching to ameboid-like are recognized as hallmarks of AMD pathogenesis. Activated microglia send signals to Müller cells and promote them to react correspondingly to damaging stimulus. Müller cells are a type of neuroglia cells that maintain the normal function of retinal neurons, modulating innate inflammatory responses, and stabilize retinal structure. Activated Müller cells can accelerate the progression of AMD by damaging neurons and blood vessels. Therefore, the crosstalk between microglia and Müller cells plays a homeostatic role in maintaining the retinal environment, and this interaction is complicatedly modulated. In particular, the mechanism of mutual regulation between the two glia populations is complex under pathological conditions. This paper reviews recent findings on the crosstalk between microglia and Müller glia during AMD pathology process, with special emphasis on its therapeutic potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Xiao-Na Hao
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Jie-Min Huang
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Zong-Ming Song
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Ye Tao
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Eye Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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Hu BY, Xin M, Chen M, Yu P, Zeng LZ. Mesenchymal stem cells for repairing glaucomatous optic nerve. Int J Ophthalmol 2024; 17:748-760. [PMID: 38638254 PMCID: PMC10988077 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2024.04.20] [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: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a common and complex neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and axons. Currently, there is no effective method to address the cause of RGCs degeneration. However, studies on neuroprotective strategies for optic neuropathy have increased in recent years. Cell replacement and neuroprotection are major strategies for treating glaucoma and optic neuropathy. Regenerative medicine research into the repair of optic nerve damage using stem cells has received considerable attention. Stem cells possess the potential for multidirectional differentiation abilities and are capable of producing RGC-friendly microenvironments through paracrine effects. This article reviews a thorough researches of recent advances and approaches in stem cell repair of optic nerve injury, raising the controversies and unresolved issues surrounding the future of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai-Yu Hu
- Eye School of Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu 610000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Mei Xin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, Chengdu 610095, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, Chengdu 610095, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ping Yu
- Eye School of Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu 610000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Liu-Zhi Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, Chengdu 610095, Sichuan Province, China
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Luo Z, Chang KC. Cell replacement with stem cell-derived retinal ganglion cells from different protocols. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:807-810. [PMID: 37843215 PMCID: PMC10664109 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.381494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, characterized by a degenerative loss of retinal ganglion cells, is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. There is currently no cure for vision loss in glaucoma because retinal ganglion cells do not regenerate and are not replaced after injury. Human stem cell-derived retinal ganglion cell transplant is a potential therapeutic strategy for retinal ganglion cell degenerative diseases. In this review, we first discuss a 2D protocol for retinal ganglion cell differentiation from human stem cell culture, including a rapid protocol that can generate retinal ganglion cells in less than two weeks and focus on their transplantation outcomes. Next, we discuss using 3D retinal organoids for retinal ganglion cell transplantation, comparing cell suspensions and clusters. This review provides insight into current knowledge on human stem cell-derived retinal ganglion cell differentiation and transplantation, with an impact on the field of regenerative medicine and especially retinal ganglion cell degenerative diseases such as glaucoma and other optic neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziming Luo
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Center of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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5
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Gao M, Guo H, Dong X, Wang Z, Yang Z, Shang Q, Wang Q. Regulation of inflammation during wound healing: the function of mesenchymal stem cells and strategies for therapeutic enhancement. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1345779. [PMID: 38425646 PMCID: PMC10901993 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1345779] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
A wound takes a long time to heal and involves several steps. Following tissue injury, inflammation is the primary cause of tissue regeneration and repair processes. As a result, the pathophysiological processes involving skin damage, healing, and remodeling depend critically on the control of inflammation. The fact that it is a feasible target for improving the prognosis of wound healing has lately become clear. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an innovative and effective therapeutic option for wound healing due to their immunomodulatory and paracrine properties. By controlling the inflammatory milieu of wounds through immunomodulation, transplanted MSCs have been shown to speed up the healing process. In addition to other immunomodulatory mechanisms, including handling neutrophil activity and modifying macrophage polarization, there may be modifications to the activation of T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). Furthermore, several studies have shown that pretreating MSCs improves their ability to modulate immunity. In this review, we summarize the existing knowledge about how MSCs influence local inflammation in wounds by influencing immunity to facilitate the healing process. We also provide an overview of MSCs optimizing techniques when used to treat wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Qiying Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Chien JY, Ciou JW, Yen Y, Huang SP. Protective effects of compound M01 on retinal ganglion cells in experimental anterior ischemic optic neuropathy by inhibiting TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 169:115861. [PMID: 37972470 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Apoptotic death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is a common pathologic feature in different types of optic neuropathy, including ischemic optic neuropathy and glaucoma, ultimately leading to irreversible visual function loss. Potent and effective protection against RGC death is determinative in developing a successful treatment for these optic neuropathies. This study evaluated the neuroprotective effect of a HECT domain-E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor, M01, on retinal ganglion cells after ischemic injury. Experimental anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) was induced by photothrombotic occlusion of microvessels supplying optic nerve in rats. M01 was administered (100 mg/Kg and 200 mg/Kg) subcutaneously for three consecutive days after AION induction. Administration of M01 (100 mg/Kg) significantly increased RGC survival and preserved visual function after AION induction. The number of TUNEL-positive cells and ED1-positive cells was significantly decreased, and optic disc edema was reduced considerably after ischemic infarction with M01 treatment. Moreover, M01 effectively ameliorated optic nerve demyelination and enhanced M2 microglial polarization after AION induction. M01 enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2); subsequently, downregulated Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) expression, inhibited NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) activation, and further decreased inflammatory factors, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in the retina after ischemic injury. These findings suggested that M01 has therapeutic potential by modulating Nrf2 and TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome pathways in the retina and optic nerve ischemic damage-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ying Chien
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Jhih-Wei Ciou
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yun Yen
- The Translational Research Program of Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; College of Medical Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shun-Ping Huang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Ophthalmology, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Bouche Djatche WH, Zhu H, Ma W, Li Y, Li Z, Zhao H, Liu Z, Qiao H. Potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived conditioned medium/secretome as a therapeutic option for ocular diseases. Regen Med 2023; 18:795-807. [PMID: 37702008 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2023-0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Research has shown that the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is partially due to its secreted factors as opposed to the implantation of the cells into the treated tissue or tissue replacement. MSC secretome, especially in the form of conditioned medium (MSC-CM) is now being explored as an alternative to MSCs transplantation. Despite the observed benefits of MSC-CM, only a few clinical trials have evaluated it and other secretome components in the treatment of eye diseases. This review provides insight into the potential therapeutic use of MSC-CM in eye conditions, such as corneal diseases, dry eye, glaucoma, retinal diseases and uveitis. We discuss the current evidence, some limitations, and the progress that remains to be achieved before clinical translation becomes possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huimin Zhu
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Wenlei Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Yue Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Ziang Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Zhizhen Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Hua Qiao
- School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
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Jo HH, Goh YS, Kim HJ, Kim DH, Kim H, Hwang J, Jung JS, Kang N, Park SE, Park KM, Lee HJ. Tacrolimus Improves Therapeutic Efficacy of Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Diabetic Retinopathy by Suppressing DRP1-Mediated Mitochondrial Fission. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1727. [PMID: 37760030 PMCID: PMC10525315 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091727] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness in diabetic patients. Umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCB-MSCs) are emerging as a promising new drug for degenerative disease associated with diabetes. Recent studies have shown that high glucose-increased excessive calcium levels are a major risk factor for mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) accumulation and apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the role of high glucose-induced NFATC1 signaling in mitochondrial oxidative stress-stimulated apoptosis and the effect of tacrolimus on the therapeutic efficacy of subconjunctival transplantation of UCB-MSCs in a DR rat model. High glucose increased mtROS and cleaved caspase-9 expression in UCB-MSCs. High glucose conditions increased O-GlcNAcylated protein expression and nuclear translocation of NFATC1. Tacrolimus pretreatment recovered high glucose-induced mtROS levels and apoptosis. In the DR rat model, subconjunctival transplantation of tacrolimus-pretreated MSCs improved retinal vessel formation, retinal function, and uveitis. In high glucose conditions, tacrolimus pretreatment reduced protein and mRNA expression levels of DRP1 and inhibited mitochondrial fission. In conclusion, we demonstrated that high glucose-induced O-GlcNAcylation activates NFATC1 signaling, which is important for DRP1-mediated mitochondrial fission and mitochondrial apoptosis. Finally, we proposed NFATC1 suppression by tacrolimus as a promising therapeutic strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of UCB-MSC transplantation for DR treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Hyo Jo
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; (H.H.J.)
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong Seok Goh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jih Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; (H.H.J.)
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Hyun Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; (H.H.J.)
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyemin Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyi Hwang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Seung Jung
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Nanyoung Kang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Eun Park
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Mee Park
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery and Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jik Lee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Center, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea; (H.H.J.)
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
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Budihardja BM, Anggraini E, Pratiwi RW, Nastiti AD, Nusanti S. Neuroprotective Strategies for Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: A Systematic Review. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2023; 37:328-339. [PMID: 37563973 PMCID: PMC10427903 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2022.0166] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is the second most common form of optic neuropathy. Most patients show no improvement over time. Until now, there is still no definitive therapy for NAION. The available literatures on the possible treatment of NAION are quite diverse and controversial. Neuroprotection strategies have been suggested as one of the potential treatments for NAION. This review aims to critically evaluate the literature on neuroprotective strategy for NAION. METHODS This report was written in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. We performed a systematic literature search in Pubmed, Science Direct, Proquest, and Cochrane databases. Only neuroprotective agents that directly work in protecting neurons were included. The outcome of interest in this review is retinal ganglion cell density and apoptosis for animal studies and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness for human studies. RESULTS The systematic search identified 591 studies of which 24 met the eligibility criteria, including 21 animal studies and three human studies. Only a few of the studies evaluated the same treatments, showing how diverse neuroprotector treatments are currently being evaluated as NAION treatment. From 21 animal studies, 14 studies showed significantly higher retinal ganglion cell density (1.49- to 2.81-fold) with neuroprotective treatment compared to control group. Two of three human studies in this review had also found a beneficial effect of preserving retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in NAION patients. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests the potential of neuroprotection as a viable option in the quest for an effective treatment strategy for NAION. Further studies, particularly clinical studies, are necessary to establish its efficacy in NAION patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitta Marcia Budihardja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta,
Indonesia
| | - Erika Anggraini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta,
Indonesia
| | - Rianti Wulandari Pratiwi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta,
Indonesia
| | - Anya Dewi Nastiti
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta,
Indonesia
| | - Syntia Nusanti
- Division of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta,
Indonesia
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Zhang C, Xiao J, Fa L, Jiang F, Jiang H, Zhou L, Xu Z. Advances in the applications of mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium in ocular diseases. Exp Eye Res 2023:109560. [PMID: 37385531 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM), also known as secretome, is secreted by MSC and contains a variety of bioactive factors with anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotection, and proliferation effects. Increasing evidence proved that MSC-CM plays an important role in various diseases, including skin, bone, muscle, and dental diseases. However, the role of MSC-CM in ocular diseases is not quite clear, Therefore, this article reviewed the composition, biological functions, preparation, and characterization of MSC-CM and summarized current research advances in different sources of MSC-CM in corneal and retinal diseases, including dry eye, corneal epithelial damage, chemical corneal injury, retinitis pigmentosa (RP), anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and other retinal degenerative changes. For these diseases, MSC-CM can promote cell proliferation, reduce inflammation and vascular leakage, inhibit retinal cell degeneration and apoptosis, protect corneal and retinal structures, and further improves visual function. Hence, we summarize the production, composition and biological functions of MSC-CM and focus on describing its mechanisms in the treatment of ocular diseases. Furthermore, we look at the unexplored mechanisms and further research directions for MSC-CM based therapy in ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Luzhong Fa
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Fanwen Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhuping Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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11
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Zhou L, Zhang H, Wu S, He Y, Guo K. In vitro induction and intraocular application in oxygen-induced retinopathy of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Mol Vis 2022; 28:432-440. [PMID: 36601410 PMCID: PMC9767843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We designed a study to find theoretical evidence for the induction, movement, fusion, proliferation, and safety of human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) in intraocular application. Methods HADSCs were induced to confirm that they can express the characteristics of endothelial cells (ECs) in vitro. HADSCs were intraocularly injected into oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mice to check the movement, fusion, proliferation, and prognosis in vivo. Electron microscopy was used to check retinal changes to confirm the safety of hADSCs in intraocular application. Results After induction, hADSCs expressed von Willebrand Factor (vWF), the cell marker of ECs. The hADSCs were distributed above the retina after an intravitreal injection in the OIR mice. The injected cells did not fuse with the retina and gathered in the central and peripheral areas, which is the lesion area of the OIR model. Five days after the hADSC intravitreal injection, the area of neovascularization was reduced by 94.83% compared with that of the OIR group. Hematologic staining and electron microscopy did not show noticeable proliferation and degeneration of the retina. Conclusions This study provides evidence for the intraocular application of hADSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lvlv Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Sarina Wu
- Inner Mongolia Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yuhong He
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Kai Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, China
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Wang Y, Fang J, Liu B, Shao C, Shi Y. Reciprocal regulation of mesenchymal stem cells and immune responses. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:1515-1530. [DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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13
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Sun F, Sun Y, Zhu J, Wang X, Ji C, Zhang J, Chen S, Yu Y, Xu W, Qian H. Mesenchymal stem cells-derived small extracellular vesicles alleviate diabetic retinopathy by delivering NEDD4. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:293. [PMID: 35841055 PMCID: PMC9284871 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02983-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As a leading cause of vision decline and severe blindness in adults, diabetic retinopathy (DR) is characterized by the aggravation of retinal oxidative stress and apoptosis in the early stage. Emerging studies reveal that mesenchymal stem cells-derived small extracellular vesicles (MSC-sEV) treatment represents a promising cell-free approach to alleviate ocular disorders. However, the repairing effects of MSC-sEV in DR remain largely unclear. This study aimed at exploring the role and the underlying mechanism of MSC-sEV in hyperglycemia-induced retinal degeneration. Methods In vivo, we used streptozotocin (STZ) to establish diabetic rat model, followed by the intravitreal injection of MSC-sEV to determine the curative effect. The cell viability and antioxidant capacity of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells stimulated with high-glucose (HG) medium after MSC-sEV treatment were analyzed in vitro. By detecting the response of cell signaling pathways in MSC-sEV-treated RPE cells, we explored the functional mechanism of MSC-sEV. Mass spectrometry was performed to reveal the bioactive protein which mediated the role of MSC-sEV. Results The intravitreal injection of MSC-sEV elicited antioxidant effects and counteracted retinal apoptosis in STZ-induced DR rat model. MSC-sEV treatment also reduced the oxidative level and enhanced the proliferation ability of RPE cells cultured in HG conditions in vitro. Further studies showed that the increased level of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) inhibited AKT phosphorylation and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression in RPE cells stimulated with HG medium, which could be reversed by MSC-sEV intervention. Through mass spectrometry, we illustrated that MSC-sEV-delivered neuronal precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated 4 (NEDD4) could cause PTEN ubiquitination and degradation, activate AKT signaling and upregulate NRF2 level to prevent DR progress. Moreover, NEDD4 knockdown impaired MSC-sEV-mediated retinal therapeutic effects. Conclusions Our findings indicated that MSC-sEV ameliorated DR through NEDD4-induced regulation on PTEN/AKT/NRF2 signaling pathway, thus revealing the efficiency and mechanism of MSC-sEV-based retinal protection and providing new insights into the treatment of DR. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02983-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengtian Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuntong Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Junyan Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoling Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cheng Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiahui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shenyuan Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yifan Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenrong Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Hui Qian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China.
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14
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Li L, Yu Y, Lin S, Hu J. Changes in best-corrected visual acuity in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration after stem cell transplantation: systematic review and meta-analysis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:237. [PMID: 35672801 PMCID: PMC9172101 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02931-y] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stem cell transplantation may improve visual acuity in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. Herein, we aimed to summarise the evidence on the risks and benefits of stem cell transplantation for improving visual acuity, including the risk of adverse events. Methods Data were obtained from the PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, and each database was interrogated from the date of inception until 19 March 2022. The rates of visual acuity outcomes and adverse events associated with stem cell transplantation were examined. All statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.4. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD 42022322902). Results The analysis examined 10 studies (102 patients), including one and three, randomised and non-randomised clinical trials, and one and five, multicentre prospective and prospective clinical trials, respectively. Meta-analysis showed changes in best-corrected visual acuity in the study eyes after stem cell transplantation (6 months: risk ratio [RR] = 17.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.08–47.56, P < 0.00001; 12 months: RR = 11.00, 95% CI 2.36–51.36, P = 0.002). Subgroup analysis showed that different stem cell types achieved better best-corrected visual acuity at post-operative 6 months, compared to that observed at baseline. Four cases of related ocular adverse events and no related systemic adverse events were reported. Conclusion This meta-analysis suggests that stem cell transplantation may improve best-corrected visual acuity in dry age-related macular degeneration, based on small sample sizes and fewer randomised controlled trials. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02931-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licheng Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Engineering Research Centre of Assistive Technology for Visual Impairment, Fujian Province University, No. 34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Engineering Research Centre of Assistive Technology for Visual Impairment, Fujian Province University, No. 34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No. 34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China. .,Group of Neuroendocrinology, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria St, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Jianmin Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Engineering Research Centre of Assistive Technology for Visual Impairment, Fujian Province University, No. 34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China. .,The School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China.
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15
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Tan S, Yao Y, Yang Q, Yuan XL, Cen LP, Ng TK. Diversified Treatment Options of Adult Stem Cells for Optic Neuropathies. Cell Transplant 2022; 31. [PMID: 36165292 PMCID: PMC9523835 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221123512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic neuropathies refer to a group of ocular disorders with abnormalities or dysfunction of the optic nerve, sharing a common pathophysiology of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and axonal loss. RGCs, as the retinal neurons in the central nervous system, show limited capacity in regeneration or recovery upon diseases or after injuries. Critically, there is still no effective clinical treatment to cure most types of optic neuropathies. Recently, stem cell therapy was proposed as a potential treatment strategy for optic neuropathies. Adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells, have been applied in clinical trials based on their neuroprotective properties. In this article, the applications of adult stem cells on different types of optic neuropathies and the related mechanisms will be reviewed. Research updates on the strategies to enhance the neuroprotective effects of human adult stem cells will be summarized. This review article aims to enlighten the research scientists on the diversified functions of adult stem cells and consideration of adult stem cells as a potential treatment for optic neuropathies in future clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoying Tan
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
- School of Optometry, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Research Centre for SHARP Vision, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yao Yao
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Qichen Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xiang-Ling Yuan
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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16
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Huang CT, Wen YT, Desai TD, Tsai RK. Intravitreal Injection of Long-Acting Pegylated Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Provides Neuroprotective Effects via Antioxidant Response in a Rat Model of Traumatic Optic Neuropathy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1934. [PMID: 34943037 PMCID: PMC8750325 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) may cause severe visual loss following direct or indirect head trauma which may result in optic nerve injuries and therefore contribute to the subsequent loss of retinal ganglion cells by inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) provides the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative actions but has a short half-life and also induces leukocytosis upon typical systemic administration. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the anti-oxidative response and neuroprotective effects of long-acting pegylated human G-CSF (PEG-G-CSF) in a rat model of optic nerve crush (ONC). Adult male Wistar rats (150-180 g) were chosen to have a sham operation in one eye and have ONC in the other. PEG-G-CSF or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS control) was immediately administered after ONC by intravitreal injection (IVI). We found the IVI of PEG-G-CSF does not induce systemic leukocytosis, but increases survival of RGCs and preserves the visual function after ONC. TUNEL assays showed fewer apoptotic cells in the retina in the PEG-G-CSF-treated eyes. The number of sorely ED1-positive cells was attenuated at the lesion site in the PEG-G-CSF-treated eyes. Immunoblotting showed up-regulation of p-Akt1, Nrf2, Sirt3, and HO-1 in the ON of the PEG-G-CSF-treated eyes. Our results demonstrated that one IVI of long-acting PEG-G-CSF is neuroprotective in the rONC. PEG-G-CSF activates the p-Akt1/Nrf2/Sirt3 and the p-Akt1/Nrf2/HO-1 axes to provide the antioxidative action and further attenuated RGC apoptosis and neuroinflammation. This provides crucial preclinical information for the development of alternative therapy with IVI of PEG-G-CSF in TON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Te Huang
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan;
- Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (Y.-T.W.); (T.D.D.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Tseng Wen
- Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (Y.-T.W.); (T.D.D.)
| | - Tushar Dnyaneshwar Desai
- Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (Y.-T.W.); (T.D.D.)
| | - Rong-Kung Tsai
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan;
- Institute of Eye Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien 970, Taiwan; (Y.-T.W.); (T.D.D.)
- Doctoral Degree Program in Translational Medicine, Tzu Chi University and Academia Sinica, Hualien 970, Taiwan
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17
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Gao X, He GH, Zhang XT, Chen S. Protective effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes on rat retinal neurons in hyperglycemia through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor/TrkB pathway. Int J Ophthalmol 2021; 14:1683-1689. [PMID: 34804857 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2021.11.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore whether human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUCMSC)-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exos) protect rat retinal neurons in high-glucose (HG) conditions by activating the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-TrkB pathway. METHODS hUCMSC-Exos were collected with differential ultracentrifugation methods and observed by transmission electron microscopy. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) was used to quantify BDNF in hUCMSC-Exos, and Western blot was used to identify surface markers of hUCMSC-Exos. Rat retinal neurons were divided into 4 groups. Furthermore, cell viability, cell apoptosis, and TrkB protein expression were measured in retinal neurons. RESULTS hUCMSCs and isolated hUCMSC-Exos were successfully cultured. All hUCMSC-Exos showed a diameter of 30 to 150 nm and had a phospholipid bimolecular membrane structure, as observed by transmission electron microscopy. ELISA showed the BDNF concentration of hUCMSCs-Exos was 2483.16±281.75. hUCMSCs-Exos effectively reduced the apoptosis of retinal neuron rate and improved neuron survival rate, meanwhile, the results of immunofluorescence verified the fluorescence intensity of TrKB in neurons increased. And all above effects were reduced by treated hUCMSCs-Exos with BDNF inhibitors. hUCMSC-Exos effectively reduced the apoptosis rate of retinal neurons by activating the BDNF-TrkB pathway in a HG environment. CONCLUSION In the HG environment, hUCMSC-Exos could carry BDNF into rat retinal neurons, inhibiting neuronal apoptosis by activating the BDNF-TrkB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Guang-Hui He
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, China.,Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300020, China.,Ophthalmic Center of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps Hospital, Urumqi 830002, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiao-Tian Zhang
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, China.,Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300020, China
| | - Song Chen
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, China.,Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300020, China
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18
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Norte-Muñoz M, Lucas-Ruiz F, Gallego-Ortega A, García-Bernal D, Valiente-Soriano FJ, de la Villa P, Vidal-Sanz M, Agudo-Barriuso M. Neuroprotection and Axonal Regeneration Induced by Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Depend on the Type of Transplant. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:772223. [PMID: 34805178 PMCID: PMC8600074 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.772223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy to treat neurodegenerative diseases has not been as successful as expected in some preclinical studies. Because preclinical research is so diverse, it is difficult to know whether the therapeutic outcome is due to the cell type, the type of transplant or the model of disease. Our aim here was to analyze the effect of the type of transplant on neuroprotection and axonal regeneration, so we tested MSCs from the same niche in the same model of neurodegeneration in the three transplantation settings: xenogeneic, syngeneic and allogeneic. For this, bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) isolated from healthy human volunteers or C57/BL6 mice were injected into the vitreous body of C57/BL6 mice (xenograft and syngraft) or BALB/c mice (allograft) right after optic nerve axotomy. As controls, vehicle matched groups were done. Retinal anatomy and function were analyzed in vivo by optical coherence tomography and electroretinogram, respectively. Survival of vision forming (Brn3a+) and non-vision forming (melanopsin+) retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) was assessed at 3, 5 and 90 days after the lesion. Regenerative axons were visualized by cholera toxin β anterograde transport. Our data show that grafted BM-MSCs did not integrate in the retina but formed a mesh on top of the ganglion cell layer. The xenotransplant caused retinal edema, detachment and folding, and a significant decrease of functionality compared to the murine transplants. RGC survival and axonal regeneration were significantly higher in the syngrafted retinas than in the other two groups or vehicle controls. Melanopsin+RGCs, but not Brn3a+RGCs, were also neuroprotected by the xenograft. In conclusion, the type of transplant has an impact on the therapeutic effect of BM-MSCs affecting not only neuronal survival but also the host tissue response. Our data indicate that syngrafts may be more beneficial than allografts and, interestingly, that the type of neuron that is rescued also plays a significant role in the successfulness of the cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Norte-Muñoz
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Fernando Lucas-Ruiz
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alejandro Gallego-Ortega
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - David García-Bernal
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Biochemistry, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco J Valiente-Soriano
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pedro de la Villa
- Systems Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Agudo-Barriuso
- Experimental Ophthalmology Group, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca) and Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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19
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Wu YR, Hashiguchi T, Sho J, Chiou SH, Takahashi M, Mandai M. Transplanted Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Ganglion Cells Integrate and Form Synapses in a Retinal Ganglion Cell-Depleted Mouse Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:26. [PMID: 34705025 PMCID: PMC8556558 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.13.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) transplantation is a therapeutic approach to replace irreversibly degenerated RGCs in diseases such as glaucoma. However, the application of primary RGCs is limited by the availability of tissues. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether transplanted mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC)-derived RGCs can integrate into the host retina and form cell connectivity with host cells. Methods In this study, we prepared small retinal fragments containing RGC as THY1-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)+ cells from mESCs and placed them near the retinal surface in the air-injected mouse eyes with or without N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-induced RGC depletion. After transplantation, THY1-EGFP+ cell integration was observed in whole-mounts and with immunostaining for synaptic markers. Results Transplanted THY1-EGFP+ cells survived for 12 weeks and extended neurites into the inner plexiform layer (IPL) of the host retina. Presumptive synapse formation was identified between grafted RGCs and host bipolar cells. The ratio of transplanted eyes with integration of THY1-EGFP+ neurites in the host IPL was higher in RGC-injured mice compared with healthy controls. Conclusions This report shows the potential for therapeutic use of pluripotent cell–derived RGCs by grafting the cells in healthy conditions and with an appropriate technical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Ren Wu
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tomoyo Hashiguchi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Junki Sho
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan.,Vision Care Cell Therapy, Inc., Kobe, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
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20
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Sharma A, Jaganathan BG. Stem Cell Therapy for Retinal Degeneration: The Evidence to Date. Biologics 2021; 15:299-306. [PMID: 34349498 PMCID: PMC8327474 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s290331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a rise in the number of people who have vision loss due to retinal diseases, and conventional therapies for treating retinal degeneration fail to repair and regenerate the damaged retina. Several studies in animal models and human trials have explored the use of stem cells to repair the retinal tissue to improve visual acuity. In addition to the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), stem cell therapies were used to treat genetic diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Stargardt’s disease, characterized by gradual loss of photoreceptor cells in the retina. Transplantation of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have shown promising results in improving retinal function in various preclinical models of retinal degeneration and clinical studies without any severe side effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were utilized to treat optic neuropathy, RP, DR, and glaucoma with positive clinical outcomes. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical evidence of stem cell therapy and current limitations in utilizing stem cells for retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Sharma
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Bithiah Grace Jaganathan
- Stem Cells and Cancer Biology Research Group, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
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21
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Retinal Ganglion Cell Transplantation: Approaches for Overcoming Challenges to Functional Integration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061426. [PMID: 34200991 PMCID: PMC8228580 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As part of the central nervous system, mammalian retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) lack significant regenerative capacity. Glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible vision loss by damaging RGCs and their axons, which compose the optic nerve. To functionally restore vision, lost RGCs must be replaced. Despite tremendous advancements in experimental models of optic neuropathy that have elucidated pathways to induce endogenous RGC neuroprotection and axon regeneration, obstacles to achieving functional visual recovery through exogenous RGC transplantation remain. Key challenges include poor graft survival, low donor neuron localization to the host retina, and inadequate dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis with afferent amacrine and bipolar cells. In this review, we summarize the current state of experimental RGC transplantation, and we propose a set of standard approaches to quantifying and reporting experimental outcomes in order to guide a collective effort to advance the field toward functional RGC replacement and optic nerve regeneration.
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