1
|
Whalen M, Akula M, McNamee SM, DeAngelis MM, Haider NB. Seeing the Future: A Review of Ocular Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:179. [PMID: 38391665 PMCID: PMC10886198 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11020179] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular diseases present a unique challenge and opportunity for therapeutic development. The eye has distinct advantages as a therapy target given its accessibility, compartmentalization, immune privilege, and size. Various methodologies for therapeutic delivery in ocular diseases are under investigation that impact long-term efficacy, toxicity, invasiveness, and delivery range. While gene, cell, and antibody therapy and nanoparticle delivery directly treat regions that have been damaged by disease, they can be limited in the duration of the therapeutic delivery and have a focal effect. In contrast, contact lenses and ocular implants can more effectively achieve sustained and widespread delivery of therapies; however, they can increase dilution of therapeutics, which may result in reduced effectiveness. Current therapies either offer a sustained release or a broad therapeutic effect, and future directions should aim toward achieving both. This review discusses current ocular therapy delivery systems and their applications, mechanisms for delivering therapeutic products to ocular tissues, advantages and challenges associated with each delivery system, current approved therapies, and clinical trials. Future directions for the improvement in existing ocular therapies include combination therapies, such as combined cell and gene therapies, as well as AI-driven devices, such as cortical implants that directly transmit visual information to the cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiya Whalen
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
| | | | | | - Margaret M DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Neena B Haider
- Shifa Precision, Boston, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Martinsen E, Jinnurine T, Subramani S, Rogne M. Advances in RNA therapeutics for modulation of 'undruggable' targets. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 204:249-294. [PMID: 38458740 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decades, drug discovery utilizing small pharmacological compounds, fragment-based therapeutics, and antibody therapy have significantly advanced treatment options for many human diseases. However, a major bottleneck has been that>70% of human proteins/genomic regions are 'undruggable' by the above-mentioned approaches. Many of these proteins constitute essential drug targets against complex multifactorial diseases like cancer, immunological disorders, and neurological diseases. Therefore, alternative approaches are required to target these proteins or genomic regions in human cells. RNA therapeutics is a promising approach for many of the traditionally 'undruggable' targets by utilizing methods such as antisense oligonucleotides, RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing, aptamers, and the development of mRNA therapeutics. In the following chapter, we will put emphasis on recent advancements utilizing these approaches against challenging drug targets, such as intranuclear proteins, intrinsically disordered proteins, untranslated genomic regions, and targets expressed in inaccessible tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saranya Subramani
- Pioneer Research AS, Oslo Science Park, Oslo, Norway; Department of Pharmacy, Section for Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marie Rogne
- Pioneer Research AS, Oslo Science Park, Oslo, Norway; Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yusuf A, Almotairy ARZ, Henidi H, Alshehri OY, Aldughaim MS. Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Systems: A Review of the Implication of Nanoparticles' Physicochemical Properties on Responses in Biological Systems. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15071596. [PMID: 37050210 PMCID: PMC10096782 DOI: 10.3390/polym15071596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last four decades, nanotechnology has gained momentum with no sign of slowing down. The application of inventions or products from nanotechnology has revolutionised all aspects of everyday life ranging from medical applications to its impact on the food industry. Nanoparticles have made it possible to significantly extend the shelf lives of food product, improve intracellular delivery of hydrophobic drugs and improve the efficacy of specific therapeutics such as anticancer agents. As a consequence, nanotechnology has not only impacted the global standard of living but has also impacted the global economy. In this review, the characteristics of nanoparticles that confers them with suitable and potentially toxic biological effects, as well as their applications in different biological fields and nanoparticle-based drugs and delivery systems in biomedicine including nano-based drugs currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are discussed. The possible consequence of continuous exposure to nanoparticles due to the increased use of nanotechnology and possible solution is also highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azeez Yusuf
- Irish Centre for Genetic Lung Disease, Department of Medicine, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Beaumont Hospital, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Hanan Henidi
- Research Department, Health Sciences Research Center, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 84428, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ohoud Y Alshehri
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S Aldughaim
- Research Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nanegrungsunk O, Au A, Sarraf D, Sadda SR. New frontiers of retinal therapeutic intervention: a critical analysis of novel approaches. Ann Med 2022; 54:1067-1080. [PMID: 35467460 PMCID: PMC9045775 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2066169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent wave of pharmacologic and technologic innovations has revolutionized our management of retinal diseases. Many of these advancements have demonstrated efficacy and can increase the quality of life while potentially reducing complications and decreasing the burden of care for patients. Some advances, such as longer-acting anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents, port delivery systems, gene therapy, and retinal prosthetics have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, and are available for clinical use. Countless other therapeutics are in various stages of development, promising a bright future for further improvements in the management of the retinal disease. Herein, we have highlighted several important novel therapies and therapeutic approaches and examine the opportunities and limitations offered by these innovations at the new frontier. KEY MESSAGESNumerous pharmacologic and technologic advancements have been emerging, providing a higher treatment efficacy while decreasing the burden and associated side effects.Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) and its longer-acting agents have dramatically improved visual outcomes and have become a mainstay treatment in various retinal diseases.Gene therapy and retinal prosthesis implantation in the treatment of congenital retinal dystrophy can accomplish the partial restoration of vision and improved daily function in patients with blindness, an unprecedented success in the field of retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Onnisa Nanegrungsunk
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Retina Division, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Adrian Au
- Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Sarraf
- Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Srinivas R Sadda
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sasso J, Ambrose BJB, Tenchov R, Datta RS, Basel MT, DeLong RK, Zhou QA. The Progress and Promise of RNA Medicine─An Arsenal of Targeted Treatments. J Med Chem 2022; 65:6975-7015. [PMID: 35533054 PMCID: PMC9115888 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, there has been a shift in research, clinical development, and commercial activity to exploit the many physiological roles of RNA for use in medicine. With the rapid success in the development of lipid-RNA nanoparticles for mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 and with several approved RNA-based drugs, RNA has catapulted to the forefront of drug research. With diverse functions beyond the role of mRNA in producing antigens or therapeutic proteins, many classes of RNA serve regulatory roles in cells and tissues. These RNAs have potential as new therapeutics, with RNA itself serving as either a drug or a target. Here, based on the CAS Content Collection, we provide a landscape view of the current state and outline trends in RNA research in medicine across time, geography, therapeutic pipelines, chemical modifications, and delivery mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet
M. Sasso
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Barbara J. B. Ambrose
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Rumiana Tenchov
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Ruchira S. Datta
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Matthew T. Basel
- College
of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Robert K. DeLong
- Nanotechnology
Innovation Center Kansas State, Kansas State
University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Qiongqiong Angela Zhou
- CAS,
a division of the American Chemical Society 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Simran, Amarjot Kaur Grewal, Sandeep Arora, Thakur Gurjeet Singh. Role of Protein Kinase C in Diabetic Complications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.15415/jptrm.2019.72011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes is the most common and systemic disorder associated with hyperglycemia which is the significant factor in the development of micro- and macrovascular changes. Many mechanistic approaches i.e. activation of Protein kinase C, glycation end products production, hexosamine pathway and polyol pathway induce cellular damage and lead to the development of diabetic complications like nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and myopathy. One of the adverse effects of long-lasting hyperglycemia is activation of PKC (intracellular signaling enzyme) and has become a field of great research interest. Hence, in this review special emphasis is placed on microvascular complications which are due to activation of PKC. Clinical trials have also been conducted using selective PKC inhibitors and have shown positive results against hyperglycemia.
Collapse
|
7
|
Cheng L, Yu H, Yan N, Lai K, Xiang M. Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α Target Genes Contribute to Retinal Neuroprotection. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:20. [PMID: 28289375 PMCID: PMC5326762 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a transcription factor that facilitates cellular adaptation to hypoxia and ischemia. Long-standing evidence suggests that one isotype of HIF, HIF-1α, is involved in the pathogenesis of various solid tumors and cardiac diseases. However, the role of HIF-1α in retina remains poorly understood. HIF-1α has been recognized as neuroprotective in cerebral ischemia in the past two decades. Additionally, an increasing number of studies has shown that HIF-1α and its target genes contribute to retinal neuroprotection. This review will focus on recent advances in the studies of HIF-1α and its target genes that contribute to retinal neuroprotection. A thorough understanding of the function of HIF-1α and its target genes may lead to identification of novel therapeutic targets for treating degenerative retinal diseases including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, China
| | - Honghua Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China; Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Command of PLAGuangzhou, China
| | - Naihong Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Laboratories, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University Chengdu, China
| | - Kunbei Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengqing Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen UniversityGuangzhou, China; Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine and Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers University-Robert Wood Johnson Medical SchoolPiscataway, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yoon S, Rossi JJ. Future strategies for the discovery of therapeutic aptamers. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2017; 12:317-319. [PMID: 28276706 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2017.1290077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sorah Yoon
- a Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology , Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope , Duarte , CA , USA
| | - John J Rossi
- a Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology , Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope , Duarte , CA , USA.,b Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences , Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope , Duarte , CA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Over the recent years, retina specialists have enjoyed significant improvements in the surgical management of proliferative diabetic retinopathy including improved preoperative planning, vitreoretinal instrumentation and new surgical maneuvers. In this review, we present new tips and tricks such as preoperative pharmacotherapy approaches including pegaptanib injection and biodegradable dexamethasone implantation, bimanual vitrectomy techniques and the concept of mixing small gauges as well as valved cannulas and intraoperative optical coherence tomography. With advanced surgical planning and sophisticated operative maneuvers tailored to the individual patient, excellent outcomes can be achieved even in severe cases of diabetic tractional detachment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Oellers
- Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tamer H Mahmoud
- Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Role of microRNA-520h in 20(R)-ginsenoside-Rg3-mediated angiosuppression. J Ginseng Res 2015; 40:151-9. [PMID: 27158236 PMCID: PMC4845046 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ginsenoside-Rg3, the pharmacologically active component of red ginseng, has been found to inhibit tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis in various cancer models. Previously, we found that 20(R)-ginsenoside-Rg3 (Rg3) could inhibit angiogenesis. Since microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to affect many biological processes, they might play an important role in ginsenoside-mediated angiomodulation. Methods In this study, we examined the underlying mechanisms of Rg3-induced angiosuppression through modulating the miRNA expression. In the miRNA-expression profiling analysis, six miRNAs and three miRNAs were found to be up- or down-regulated in vascular-endothelial-growth-factor-induced human-umbilical-vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) after Rg3 treatment, respectively. Results A computational prediction suggested that mature hsa-miR-520h (miR-520h) targets ephrin receptor (Eph) B2 and EphB4, and hence, affecting angiogenesis. The up-regulation of miR-520h after Rg3 treatment was validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, while the protein expressions of EphB2 and EphB4 were found to decrease, respectively. The mimics and inhibitors of miR-520h were transfected into HUVECs and injected into zebra-fish embryos. The results showed that overexpression of miR-520h could significantly suppress the EphB2 and EphB4 protein expression, proliferation, and tubulogenesis of HUVECs, and the subintestinal-vessel formation of the zebra fish. Conclusion These results might provide further information on the mechanism of Rg3-induced angiosuppression and the involvement of miRNAs in angiogenesis.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) agents have revolutionized the treatment of retinal diseases. Use of anti-VEGF agents in the Indian Scenario present some unique challenges considering the absence of compounding pharmacies, poor penetrance of health insurance and limited affordability of the citizens of a developing economy. To study the changing paradigms of anti-VEGF use in the Indian scenario, all articles published by Indian authors, data from web-based surveys amongst Indian vitreo-retinal specialists were reviewed. In the paucity of compounding pharmacies in India, fractionation and injection techniques differ from those of developed countries. Frequent anti-VEGF monotherapy offers the best anatomical and visual results, but economics of scale do not allow the same in the Indian scenario, resulting in PRN dosing and combination of anti-VEGF with laser photocoagulation, being the commonly employed treatment protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Mahesh Shanmugam
- Vitre o-retinal and Ocular Oncology Services, Sankara Eye Hospitals, Bangalore, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gábriel R. Neuropeptides and diabetic retinopathy. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2013; 75:1189-201. [PMID: 23043302 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes, develops in 75% of patients with type 1 and 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes, progressing to legal blindness in about 5%. In the recent years, considerable efforts have been put into finding treatments for this condition. It has been discovered that peptidergic mechanisms (neuropeptides and their analogues, activating a diverse array of signal transduction pathways through their multiple receptors) are potentially important for consideration in drug development strategies. A considerable amount of knowledge has been accumulated over the last three decades on human retinal neuropeptides and those elements in the pathomechanisms of diabetic retinopathy which might be related to peptidergic signal transduction. Here, human retinal neuropeptides and their receptors are reviewed, along with the theories relevant to the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy both in humans and in experimental models. By collating this information, the curative potential of certain neupeptides and their analogues/antagonists can also be discussed, along with the existing clinical treatments of diabetic retinopathy. The most promising peptidergic pathways for which treatment strategies may be developed at present are stimulation of the somatostatin-related pathway and the pituitary adenylyl cyclase-activating polypeptide-related pathway or inhibition of angiotensinergic mechanisms. These approaches may result in the inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor production and neuronal apoptosis; therefore, both the optical quality of the image and the processing capability of the neural circuit in the retina may be saved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, H-7621, Pécs, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Praidou A, Papakonstantinou E, Androudi S, Georgiadis N, Karakiulakis G, Dimitrakos S. Vitreous and serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor and their correlation in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy and clinically significant macula oedema. Acta Ophthalmol 2011; 89:248-54. [PMID: 19799585 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2009.01661.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate possible correlations between vitreous and/or serum levels of platelet-derived growth factor isoforms (PDGF-AA, -AB and -BB) with parameters associated with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and clinically significant macula oedema (CSMO); to compare the results to relevant results regarding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is an established growth factor affecting NPDR. METHODS Fifteen patients with NPDR, 31 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and 15 non-diabetic patients were included in the study. Vitreous and serum samples were obtained during vitrectomy. PDGF-AA, -AB and -BB, as well as VEGF, were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS PDGF-AA, -AB and -BB and VEGF were all expressed in the serum and vitreous of controls and patients with NPDR. The levels of PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB and VEGF in vitreous were significantly increased in the NPDR group compared to controls, while PDGF-BB levels were significantly decreased in the NPDR group compared to controls. The levels of all PDGF isoforms and VEGF in vitreous were significantly increased in the PDR group compared to the NPDR group. No such differences were evident in serum. PDGF-AA and VEGF correlated significantly to the severity of NPDR. PDGF or VEGF in vitreous of NPDR patients did not correlate with retinal photocoagulation (RP) or the serum levels of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). There was no correlation between the vitreous and serum levels of VEGF or PDGF in patients with PDR. Only PDGF-AB vitreous levels correlated significantly with PDGF-BB vitreous levels in the NPDR group. CONCLUSION It appears that in addition to VEGF, almost all PDGF isoforms in the vitreous are also correlated with NPDR and CSMO.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Praidou
- 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yang Y, Andresen BT, Yang K, Zhang Y, Li X, Li X, Wang H. Association of vascular endothelial growth factor -634C/G polymorphism and diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic Han Chinese. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2010; 235:1204-11. [PMID: 20801867 DOI: 10.1258/ebm.2010.010102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic factors are important in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR); there is a clear association of increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with DR as well as numerous VEGF polymorphisms that are linked to increased VEGF levels and DR. In this study, the relationships between the VEGF promoter polymorphism -634C/G, plasma VEGF levels and DR were examined in the Han Chinese. Ninety-six healthy subjects and 285 subjects with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in this study. The diabetic subjects were divided into three groups depending on the degree of DR as determined by fundus photography and fluorescent angiography. Along with standard clinical characteristics, the -634C/G polymorphism was examined using TaqMan allelic discrimination, and plasma VEGF levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The distribution of the polymorphism differed significantly between patients with and without retinopathy; this was most pronounced between the no DR and proliferative DR groups. Significantly greater plasma VEGF levels were present in those with the -634CC genotype, and only the proliferative DR group had elevated plasma VEGF levels. Logistic regression revealed that the -634C/G polymorphism is strongly associated with DR. This study suggests that diabetic Han Chinese carrying the -634CC VEGF promoter polymorphism have a genetic risk of DR, and this polymorphism may be a major factor influencing plasma VEGF levels. Therefore, this polymorphism may be used as a biomarker at the onset of diabetes in the Han Chinese to predict the risk of DR, allowing for clinicians to treat these patients more aggressively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Yunnan Province 2nd Hospital, Kunming 650031, P R China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Costa R, Carneiro A, Rocha A, Pirraco A, Falcão M, Vasques L, Soares R. Bevacizumab and ranibizumab on microvascular endothelial cells: A comparative study. J Cell Biochem 2010; 108:1410-7. [PMID: 19859900 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.22378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Given its broad effects in endothelium, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) represents the primary rate-limiting step of angiogenesis. Therefore, VEGF targeting therapies were soon developed. Bevacizumab and ranibizumab are two of these therapeutic agents already in clinical use. Bevacizumab was first used for cancer treatment, whereas ranibizumab was designed to target choroidal neovascularization, the main cause of blindness in age-related macular degeneration. The present study aims to compare the multiple effects of bevacizumab and ranibizumab in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs). HMEC cultures were established and treated during 24 h with the anti-VEGF agents within the intravitreal-established concentration range or excipients. Analyses of VEGF content in cell media and VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) expression in cell lysates were performed. No cell cytotoxicity (MTS assay) was found in anti-VEGF-treated cultures at any concentration. Apoptosis (TUNEL assay) was significantly increased and cell proliferation (BrdU assay), migration (transwell assay) and assembly into vascular structures were significantly reduced by incubation with both agents at the two doses used. These findings were accompanied by a strong decrease in VEGF release, and in phosphorylated VEGFR-2 and Akt expression for both agents at the clinical concentration. Interestingly, phosphorylated Erk was only significantly reduced upon bevacizumab treatment. In addition, proliferation was more affected by ranibizumab, whereas migration, capillary formation, and phosphorylated VEGFR2 expression were significantly reduced by bevacizumab as compared to ranibizumab. Therefore, although both agents presented anti-angiogenic actions, distinct effects were exerted by the two molecules in HMEC. These findings suggest that a careful confirmation of these effects in clinical settings is mandatory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Costa
- Department of Biochemistry (U38-FCT), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Liu TG, Huang Y, Cui DD, Huang XB, Mao SH, Ji LL, Song HB, Yi C. Inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg3 combined with gemcitabine on angiogenesis and growth of lung cancer in mice. BMC Cancer 2009; 9:250. [PMID: 19624862 PMCID: PMC2721848 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-9-250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2009] [Accepted: 07/23/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ginsenoside Rg3, a saponin extracted from ginseng, inhibits angiogenesis. The combination of low-dose chemotherapy and anti-angiogenic inhibitors suppresses growth of experimental tumors more effectively than conventional therapy or anti-angiogenic agent alone. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of low-dose gemcitabine combined with ginsenoside Rg3 on angiogenesis and growth of established Lewis lung carcinoma in mice. Methods C57L/6 mice implanted with Lewis lung carcinoma were randomized into the control, ginsenoside Rg3, gemcitabine and combination group. The quality of life and survival of mice were recorded. Tumor volume, inhibitive rate and necrosis rate were estimated. Necrosis of tumor and signals of blood flow as well as dynamic parameters of arterial blood flow in tumors such as peak systolic velocity (PSV) and resistive index (RI) were detected by color Doppler ultrasound. In addition, expression of vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) and CD31 were observed by immunohistochemstry, and microvessel density (MVD) of the tumor tissues was assessed by CD31 immunohistochemical analysis. Results Quality of life of mice in the ginsenoside Rg3 and combination group were better than in the control and gemcitabine group. Combined therapy with ginsenoside Rg3 and gemcitabine not only enhanced efficacy on suppression of tumor growth and prolongation of the survival, but also increased necrosis rate of tumor significantly. In addition, the combination treatment could obviously decrease VEGF expression and MVD as well as signals of blood flow and PSV in tumors. Conclusion Ginsenoside Rg3 combined with gemcitabine may significantly inhibit angiogenesis and growth of lung cancer and improve survival and quality of life of tumor-bearing mice. The combination of chemotherapy and anti-angiogenic drugs may be an innovative and promising therapeutic strategy in the experimental treatment of human lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Guo Liu
- Division of Abdominal Cancer, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, PR China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Konstantinidis L, Mantel I, Pournaras JAC, Zografos L, Ambresin A. Intravitreal ranibizumab (Lucentis) for the treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2008; 247:311-8. [PMID: 19043731 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-008-0995-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2008] [Revised: 10/11/2008] [Accepted: 10/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macular choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is one of the most vision-threatening complications of myopia, which can lead to severe vision loss. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal ranibizumab in the treatment of myopic CNV. METHODS We conducted a prospective, consecutive, interventional study of patients with subfoveal or juxtafoveal CNV secondary to pathologic myopia (PM) treated with intravitreal injection of ranibizumab in the Jules Gonin University Eye Hospital from June 2006 to February 2008. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography (FA) were performed at baseline and monthly for all patients. Indications for retreatment were loss in BCVA associated either with persistent leakage from CNV shown on FA, and/or evidence of CNV activity on OCT. RESULTS The study included 14 eyes of 14 patients. The mean spherical equivalent refractive error was -12.5 (range, -8.0 D to -16.0 D). Mean time of follow-up was 8.4 months (range from 3 to 16 months, SD: 3). The mean number of intravitreal injections administered for each patient was 2.36 (SD 1.5). The mean initial visual acuity (VA) was 0.19 decimal equivalent (log-MAR: 0.71, SD: 0.3). A statistically significant improvement to a mean VA of 0.48 decimal equivalent (log-MAR:0.32, SD: 0.25) was demonstrated at the final follow-up. VA improved by a mean of 3.86 (SD 2.74) lines. Nine patients (64%) demonstrated a gain of 3 or more lines. Mean central macular thickness (CMT) measured with OCT was 304 microm (SD: 39) at the baseline, and was reduced significantly at the final follow-up to 153 microm (SD: 23). Average CMT reduction was 170 microm (SD: 57). No injection complications or drug-related side effects were noted during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS In this small series of eyes with limited follow-up, intravitreal ranibizumab was a safe and effective treatment for CNV secondary to PM, resulting in functional and anatomic improvements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lazaros Konstantinidis
- Hôpital Ophtalmique Jules Gonin, University of Lausanne, 15 Av. de France, CH-1004, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients that are deemed to be at risk for the development of choroidal neovascularization are frequently instructed to self-monitor their vision for symptoms that may signal the presence of choroidal neovascularization. Traditionally, the Amsler grid has been used for this purpose, but recent technological innovations have resulted in a number of potential alternatives that offer important advantages, including greater sensitivity, the ability to differentiate exudative from non-exudative disease, and quantitative analysis of test results. METHODS The following technologies that could be employed for patient self-assessment of macular function in a home setting are reviewed: computerized Amsler grid, preferential hyperacuity perimetry, macular mapping test and noise-field campimetry. CONCLUSIONS A number of technologies are currently available that could significantly improve the ability of patients at risk for the development of choroidal neovascularization to self-monitor their central visual field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Trevino
- Evansville VA Outpatient Clinic, 500 East Walnut Street, Evansville, IN 47713-2438, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Khalili MR, Hosseini H. Debate on the various anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs. Indian J Ophthalmol 2008; 56:255-6; author reply 256. [PMID: 18417837 PMCID: PMC2636114 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.40375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
20
|
Current status of development of anticancer agents in Japan. Int J Hematol 2008; 87:484-489. [DOI: 10.1007/s12185-008-0087-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2007] [Revised: 02/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/14/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
21
|
Author′s reply. Indian J Ophthalmol 2008. [PMCID: PMC2636111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|