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Haj Najeeb B, Schmidt-Erfurth U. The potential key role of choroidal non-perfusion and rod degeneration in the pathogenesis of macular neovascularization type 3. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:1836-1839. [PMID: 38499856 PMCID: PMC11226597 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03034-z] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Macular neovascularization type 3 (MNV3) is a multifactorial disease with distinct epidemiological, clinical, pathomorphological and topographical characteristics. This review of the literature discusses the latest experimental and clinical outcomes that could explain the pathogenesis of retinal neovascularization. Although patients with MNV3 are usually older than those with MNV1 or 2, their lesions do not coexist with, precede, or follow other types in the same eye. The regional distribution of MNV3 lesions is characterized as confined to the parafoveal macula without any involvement of the rod-free foveal area. Focal outer retinal atrophy and choroidal non-perfusion are the main structural features that occur prior to the development of retinal neovascularization. Also, histological and experimental studies of MNV3 and other non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration diseases complicated with MNV3-like lesions strongly suggest rod degeneration contributes to the pathogenesis. Therefore, the retinal neovascularization in MNV3 has a different pathogenesis from the choroidal neovascularization in MNV1 and 2 and emerging evidence indicates that choroidal non-prefusion and rod degeneration play a key role in the pathogenesis of MNV3. Accordingly, we suggest a sequence of pathological events that start with choroidal non-perfusion due to advanced age followed by hypoxia of the outer retina at the parafoveal area. This induces a remarkable degeneration of rods that triggers the growth of retinal neovascularization due to the imbalance of the angiogenic factors in the outer retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Haj Najeeb
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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2
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Dimtsas GS, Ieronymaki A, Chatzistefanou KI, Siasos G, Krassas A, Moschos MM. Elevated VEGF-A Levels in the Aqueous Humor of Patients With Primary Open Angle Glaucoma. In Vivo 2024; 38:1875-1881. [PMID: 38936903 PMCID: PMC11215581 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.13642] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM The purpose of the current study was to compare the vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) levels in the aqueous humor of patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and non-glaucomatous eyes and reveal any potential statistically significant correlations. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was an observational cross-sectional study. Aqueous humor samples (50-100 μl) were collected under aseptic conditions, from the anterior chamber at the start of glaucoma or cataract surgery. The levels of VEGF-A were measured using a multiplex bead-based immunoassay. RESULTS Aqueous humor samples were obtained from 76 participants: 39 with POAG and 36 with age-related cataracts as controls. VEGF-A levels were significantly elevated in the POAG group (166.37±110.04 pg/ml, p=0.011) compared to the control group (119.02±49.09 pg/ml). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that VEGF-A had significant prognostic ability for POAG (AUC=0.67; p=0.006). An optimal cut-off for VEGF-A was found to be 148.5 pg/ml with a sensitivity of 54%, specificity of 81.1%, positive prognostic value (PPV) of 75% and negative prognostic value (NPV) of 62.5%. Logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for sex and age, patients with VEGF-A higher than 148.5 pg/ml had almost 10 times greater likelihood for POAG. CONCLUSION VEGF-A is elevated in patients with POAG and can potentially have a prognostic ability for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios S Dimtsas
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece;
| | - Alexandra Ieronymaki
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Klio I Chatzistefanou
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- Third Department of Cardiology, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Augustinos Krassas
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Marilita M Moschos
- First Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
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3
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Blanot M, Casaroli-Marano RP, Mondéjar-Medrano J, Sallén T, Ramírez E, Segú-Vergés C, Artigas L. Aflibercept Off-Target Effects in Diabetic Macular Edema: An In Silico Modeling Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3621. [PMID: 38612432 PMCID: PMC11011561 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI) is a treatment for diabetic macular edema (DME), but its mechanism of action (MoA) has not been completely elucidated. Here, we aimed to explore IAI's MoA and its multi-target nature in DME pathophysiology with an in silico (computer simulation) disease model. We used the Therapeutic Performance Mapping System (Anaxomics Biotech property) to generate mathematical models based on the available scientific knowledge at the time of the study, describing the relationship between the modulation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) by IAI and DME pathophysiological processes. We also undertook an enrichment analysis to explore the processes modulated by IAI, visualized the effectors' predicted protein activity, and specifically evaluated the role of VEGFR1 pathway inhibition on DME treatment. The models simulated the potential pathophysiology of DME and the likely IAI's MoA by inhibiting VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 signaling. The action of IAI through both signaling pathways modulated the identified pathophysiological processes associated with DME, with the strongest effects in angiogenesis, blood-retinal barrier alteration and permeability, and inflammation. VEGFR1 inhibition was essential to modulate inflammatory protein effectors. Given the role of VEGFR1 signaling on the modulation of inflammatory-related pathways, IAI may offer therapeutic advantages for DME through sustained VEGFR1 pathway inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Blanot
- Anaxomics Biotech S.L., 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.); (E.R.); (C.S.-V.); (L.A.)
| | - Ricardo Pedro Casaroli-Marano
- Department of Surgery (FMCS), Universitat de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital Clínic de Barcelona (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Thaïs Sallén
- Bayer Hispania S.L., 08970 Sant Joan Despí, Spain; (J.M.-M.); (T.S.)
| | - Esther Ramírez
- Anaxomics Biotech S.L., 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.); (E.R.); (C.S.-V.); (L.A.)
| | - Cristina Segú-Vergés
- Anaxomics Biotech S.L., 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.); (E.R.); (C.S.-V.); (L.A.)
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Artigas
- Anaxomics Biotech S.L., 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (M.B.); (E.R.); (C.S.-V.); (L.A.)
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4
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Dimtsas GS, Tsiogka A, Moschos MM. VEGF levels in the aqueous humor of patients with primary open angle glaucoma: A systematic review and a meta-analysis. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023; 33:2228-2235. [PMID: 37038334 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231168146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the VEGF levels in the aqueous humor of patients with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) and non-glaucomatous eyes and reveal any potential statistically significant correlations. METHODS We searched PubMed, from inception to December 31, 2021. Key search terms included VEGF and Glaucoma. All relevant studies that evaluated the VEGF levels in patients with POAG and in the control group were included in this systematic review. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies (PRISMA-DTA) guidelines were followed. Data were extracted independently by 2 authors. Heterogeneity was statistically quantified by Q, H, and I2 statistics, and a meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. RESULTS Seven cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analysis. 144 eyes were enrolled in the POAG group and 162 eyes in the control group. The random effect model showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups (SMD =0.284, 95% CI = -0.173 to 0.741; P = 0.223), but we noticed a trend towards elevated VEGF levels in the aqueous humor of POAG patients. Significant heterogeneity was detected (I2 = 74.1%, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates a trend towards elevated VEGF-A levels in the aqueous humor of patients with POAG and suggests a potential neuroprotective role of VEGF in patients with POAG. Future studies are required to evaluate the exact role of VEGF in POAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios S Dimtsas
- 1st Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Tsiogka
- 1st Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Marilita M Moschos
- 1st Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "G. Gennimatas" General Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Wei-Zhang S, Cui B, Xing M, Liu J, Guo Y, He K, Bai T, Dong X, Lei Y, Zhou W, Zhou H, Liu S, Wang X, Zhou D, Yan H. Chimpanzee adenovirus-mediated multiple gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration. iScience 2023; 26:107939. [PMID: 37810255 PMCID: PMC10550724 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107939] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration AMD (nAMD) is characterized by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and could lead to irreversible blindness. However, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy has limited efficacy. Therefore, we generated a chimpanzee adenoviral vector (AdC68-PFC) containing three genes, pigment endothelial-derived factor (PEDF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), and soluble forms of CD59 (sCD59), to treat nAMD. The results showed that AdC68-PFC mediated a strong onset of PEDF, sFlt-1, and sCD59 expression both in vivo and in vitro. AdC68-PFC showed preventive and therapeutic effects following intravitreal (IVT) injection in the laser-induced CNV model and very low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Vldlr-/-) mouse model. In vitro assessment indicated that AdC68-PFC had a strong inhibitory effect on endothelial cells. Importantly, the safety test showed no evidence of in vivo toxicity of adenovirus in murine eyes. Our findings suggest that AdC68-PFC may be a long-acting and safe gene therapy vector for future nAMD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena Wei-Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bohao Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Man Xing
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaojiao Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingying Guo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Kai He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Tinghui Bai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yi Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengnan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dongming Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ocular Trauma, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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6
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Chandran K, Giridhar A, Gopalakrishnan M, Sivaprasad S. Relation of interdigitation zone changes and right-angle vessels in Macular Telangiectasia Type-2 (MacTel). Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2977-2986. [PMID: 36841866 PMCID: PMC10516857 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02453-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To study the relation between interdigitation zone (IDZ) and right-angle vessel (RAV) in Macular Telangiectasia Type-2 (MacTel). METHODS A total of 43 eyes of 38 patients with presence of definite RAV on colour fundus photograph (Gass and Blodi-only stage-3) were confirmed on multimodal imaging. The relation of IDZ changes and associated ellipsoid zone (EZ) alterations on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) with RAV were studied at baseline and these OCT changes were followed up in 15 eyes over a mean of 3.86 years. RESULTS A total of 58 RAVs were found in the 43 eyes and 53/58 (91.3%) RAVs were associated with IDZ alterations in 39 eyes. On follow-up, IDZ attenuation progressed to IDZ loss and subsequent EZ attenuation and loss. A pre-existing IDZ loss was associated with subsequent EZ defect (P = 0.002). In 36 eyes that had OCT angiography, eyes with RAV showed deep capillary plexus telangiectasia in all 36 (100%) eyes and 32/36 (89%) eyes showed IDZ changes with or without EZ loss. CONCLUSIONS IDZ attenuation and/or loss are associated with RAV and may serve as predictor of EZ loss in MacTel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Chandran
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Giridhar Eye Institute, Cochin, Kerala, India
- SSM Eye Research Foundation, Giridhar Eye Institute, Cochin, Kerala, India
| | - Anantharaman Giridhar
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Giridhar Eye Institute, Cochin, Kerala, India.
- SSM Eye Research Foundation, Giridhar Eye Institute, Cochin, Kerala, India.
| | | | - Sobha Sivaprasad
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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7
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Ganugula R, Arora M, Dwivedi S, Chandrashekar DS, Varambally S, Scott EM, Kumar MNVR. Systemic Anti-Inflammatory Therapy Aided by Curcumin-Laden Double-Headed Nanoparticles Combined with Injectable Long-Acting Insulin in a Rodent Model of Diabetes Eye Disease. ACS NANO 2023; 17:6857-6874. [PMID: 36951721 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c00535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic interventions that counter emerging targets in diabetes eye diseases are lacking. We hypothesize that a combination therapy targeting inflammation and hyperglycemia can prevent diabetic eye diseases. Here, we report a multipronged approach to prevent diabetic cataracts and retinopathy by combining orally bioavailable curcumin-laden double-headed (two molecules of gambogic acid conjugated to terminal carboxyl groups of poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)) nanoparticles and injectable basal insulin. The combination treatment led to a significant delay in the progression of diabetic cataracts and retinopathy, improving liver function and peripheral glucose homeostasis. We found a concurrent reduction in lens aggregate protein, AGEs, and increased mitochondrial ATP production. Importantly, inhibition of Piezo1 protected against hyperglycemia-induced retinal vascular damage suggesting possible involvement of Piezo1 in the regulation of retinal phototransduction. Histologic evaluation of murine small intestines revealed that chronic administration of curcumin-laden double-headed nanoparticles was well tolerated, circumventing the fear of nanoparticle toxicity. These findings establish the potential of anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycemic combination therapy for the prevention of diabetic cataracts and retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ganugula
- The Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine (CCBM), The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Bioscience and Medicine Initiative, College of Community Health Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, SEC 1325, Box 870344, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Alabama Life Research Institute, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - M Arora
- The Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine (CCBM), The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Bioscience and Medicine Initiative, College of Community Health Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, SEC 1325, Box 870344, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Alabama Life Research Institute, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - S Dwivedi
- The Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine (CCBM), The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Bioscience and Medicine Initiative, College of Community Health Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - D S Chandrashekar
- Genomic Diagnostics and Bioinformatics, Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, United States
| | - S Varambally
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, United States
| | - E M Scott
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - M N V Ravi Kumar
- The Center for Convergent Bioscience and Medicine (CCBM), The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Bioscience and Medicine Initiative, College of Community Health Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, SEC 1325, Box 870344, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Alabama Life Research Institute, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Alabama, SEC 3448, Box 870203, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
- Nephrology Research and Training Center, Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
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8
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Li M, Gao L, Zhao L, Zou T, Xu H. Toward the next generation of vascularized human neural organoids. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:31-54. [PMID: 35993813 DOI: 10.1002/med.21922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Thanks to progress in the development of three-dimensional (3D) culture technologies, human central nervous system (CNS) development and diseases have been gradually deciphered by using organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) or human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Selforganized neural organoids (NOs) have been used to mimic morphogenesis and functions of specific organs in vitro. Many NOs have been reproduced in vitro, such as those mimicking the human brain, retina, and spinal cord. However, NOs fail to capitulate to the maturation and complexity of in vivo neural tissues. The persistent issues with current NO cultivation protocols are inadequate oxygen supply and nutrient diffusion due to the absence of vascular networks. In vivo, the developing CNS is interpenetrated by vasculature that not only supplies oxygen and nutrients but also provides a structural template for neuronal growth. To address these deficiencies, recent studies have begun to couple NO culture with bioengineering techniques and methodologies, including genetic engineering, coculture, multidifferentiation, microfluidics and 3D bioprinting, and transplantation, which might promote NO maturation and create more functional NOs. These cutting-edge methods could generate an ever more reliable NO model in vitro for deciphering the codes of human CNS development, disease progression, and translational application. In this review, we will summarize recent technological advances in culture strategies to generate vascularized NOs (vNOs), with a special focus on cerebral- and retinal-organoid models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Lixiong Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zou
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
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9
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Rattner A, Wang Y, Nathans J. Signaling Pathways in Neurovascular Development. Annu Rev Neurosci 2022; 45:87-108. [PMID: 35803586 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-111020-102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During development, the central nervous system (CNS) vasculature grows to precisely meet the metabolic demands of neurons and glia. In addition, the vast majority of the CNS vasculature acquires a unique set of molecular and cellular properties-collectively referred to as the blood-brain barrier-that minimize passive diffusion of molecules between the blood and the CNS parenchyma. Both of these processes are controlled by signals emanating from neurons and glia. In this review, we describe the nature and mechanisms-of-action of these signals, with an emphasis on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and beta-catenin (canonical Wnt) signaling, the two best-understood systems that regulate CNS vascular development. We highlight foundational discoveries, interactions between different signaling systems, the integration of genetic and cell biological studies, advances that are of clinical relevance, and questions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Rattner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States;
| | - Yanshu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States; .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States; .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States.,Departments of Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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10
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Huang P, Narendran S, Pereira F, Fukuda S, Nagasaka Y, Apicella I, Yerramothu P, Marion KM, Cai X, Sadda SR, Gelfand BD, Ambati J. Subretinal injection in mice to study retinal physiology and disease. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:1468-1485. [PMID: 35418688 PMCID: PMC11146522 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00689-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Subretinal injection (SRI) is a widely used technique in retinal research and can be used to deliver nucleic acids, small molecules, macromolecules, viruses, cells or biomaterials such as nanobeads. Here we describe how to undertake SRI of mice. This protocol was adapted from a technique initially described for larger animals. Although SRI is a common procedure in eye research laboratories, there is no published guidance on the best practices for determining what constitutes a 'successful' SRI. Optimal injections are required for reproducibility of the procedure and, when carried out suboptimally, can lead to erroneous conclusions. To address this issue, we propose a standardized protocol for SRI with 'procedure success' defined by follow-up examination of the retina and the retinal pigmented epithelium rather than solely via intraoperative endpoints. This protocol takes 7-14 d to complete, depending on the reagent delivered. We have found, by instituting a standardized training program, that trained ophthalmologists achieve reliable proficiency in this technique after ~350 practice injections. This technique can be used to gain insights into retinal physiology and disease pathogenesis and to test the efficacy of experimental compounds in the retina or retinal pigmented epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peirong Huang
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Siddharth Narendran
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, India
| | - Felipe Pereira
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Shinichi Fukuda
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yosuke Nagasaka
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ivana Apicella
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Praveen Yerramothu
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Xiaoyu Cai
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Srinivas R Sadda
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bradley D Gelfand
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jayakrishna Ambati
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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11
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Vascular Analysis of Type 1, 2, and 3 Macular Neovascularization in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Shows New Insights into Differences of Pathologic Vasculature and May Lead to a More Personalized Understanding. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030694. [PMID: 35327496 PMCID: PMC8945474 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The clinical appearance of macular neovascularization (MNV) in age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) varies widely, but so far, this has had no relevance in terms of therapeutic approaches or prognosis. Therefore, our purpose was to investigate if and which differences exist in the vascular architecture of MNV and to quantify them. Methods: In 90 patients with newly diagnosed nAMD, MNV was identified by means of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), and automated quantitative vascular analysis was carried out. The analyzed vascular parameters were area, flow, fractal dimension (FD), total vascular length (sumL), number of vascular nodes (numN), flow, and average vessel caliber (avgW). The current classification of MNVs divides them according to their localization into type 1 (grown from the choroid below the RPE), type 2 (grown from the choroid through RPE), and type 3 (grown from the retina toward the RPE). We compared the analyzed vascular parameters of each of the three MNV types. Kruskal−Wallis test was applied, Dunn test was performed for post hoc analysis, and for pairwise comparison, p-values were adjusted using Bonferroni comparison. Results: Regarding the MNV area, there was no significant difference between types 1 and 2, but type 3 was significantly smaller than types 1 and 2 (p < 0.00001). For FD, types 1 and 2 did not differ significantly, but again, type 3 was lower than type 1 and 2 (p < 0.00001). The numN were significantly higher in types 1 and 3 than in 2 (p < 0.005), but not between types 1 and 3. No significant differences were found between MNV types for flow. As for sumL, types 1 and 2 did not differ significantly, but type 3 was significantly lower than types 1 and 2 (p < 0.00001). For avgW, there was no significant difference between types 1 and 2 or between types 2 and 3, but type 3 was significantly larger than type 1 (p < 0.05). Conclusions OCTA yields detailed information on the vascular morphology of MNV in patients with nAMD and is able to show differences among types 1, 2, and 3. Especially comparing types 1 and 2 with type 3 reveals significant differences in area, FD, sumL, and numN. One explanation could be the similar pathogenesis of types 1 and 2 with their origin in the choroid and their growth towards the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), whereas type 3 originates in the deep capillary plexus. Between types 1 and 2, however, only the numN differ significantly, which could be due to the fact that type 1 spreads horizontally below the RPE and, thus, display more vascular branching, while type 2 grows more vertically through the RPE and under the neurosensory retina. Detailed information about the pathologic vasculature is important for proper monitoring of the disease and to assess the efficacy of medication, especially with regard to new substances. This should be taken into consideration in future studies.
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12
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Ong JX, Zandi R, Fawzi AA. Early-stage macular telangiectasia type 2 vascular abnormalities are associated with interdigitation zone disruption. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259811. [PMID: 34767582 PMCID: PMC8589180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the relationship between disruption in different photoreceptor layers and deep capillary plexus (DCP) telangiectasias in eyes with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel). METHODS 35 eyes (21 patients) with MacTel imaged with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) were included. Circumscribed areas of DCP telangiectasia were traced from OCTA slabs and the corresponding spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) slabs were used to visualize the photoreceptor layer interdigitation zone (IZ) and ellipsoid zone (EZ). IZ attenuation, IZ loss, and EZ loss were graded by reviewing en face SD-OCT slabs for hypo-reflective areas and confirming their status on cross-sectional views. Total area of photoreceptor disruption and overlap with DCP telangiectasia were evaluated with respect to OCT-based MacTel stage. Longitudinal changes were evaluated in a subset of patients with follow-up imaging. RESULTS Overlap of DCP telangiectasia with IZ attenuation significantly decreased with MacTel severity, while overlap with IZ and EZ loss significantly increased. Overlap with IZ loss peaked in moderate MacTel (Stages 3-5). Longitudinal imaging showed that new EZ loss at 6 months was largely predicted by baseline IZ loss. CONCLUSIONS Worsening MacTel severity is characterized by greater overlap between DCP telangiectasia and zones of increasing severity of photoreceptor disruption, with EZ loss enlarging over time within areas of preexisting IZ disruption. We suggest that IZ disruption may indicate early photoreceptor dysfunction that eventually progresses to EZ loss, with IZ loss being a more reliable metric than IZ attenuation. Additional studies will be necessary to further explore long-term photoreceptor changes and evaluate their relationship with visual function in MacTel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice X. Ong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Roya Zandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Amani A. Fawzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
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13
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Shibuya M, Matsui H, Sasagawa T, Nagamatsu T. A simple detection method for the serum sFLT1 protein in preeclampsia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20613. [PMID: 34663835 PMCID: PMC8523687 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00152-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In normal pregnancy, the soluble form of FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1)/ vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sVEGFR-1), a VEGF-trapping protein, is expressed in trophoblasts of the placenta, suggesting that it plays an important role in the physiological barrier between fetal and maternal angiogenesis, when stimulated with VEGF-A. In pathological conditions such as preeclampsia (PE), sFLT1 protein is abnormally overexpressed in trophoblasts and secreted into the serum, which could cause hypertension and proteinuria on the maternal side and growth retardation on the fetal side. Detection of an abnormal increase in serum sFLT1 during the early to middle stages of PE is essential for proper initiation of medical care. To carry out this screening for sFLT1, we developed an easier and relatively low-cost sandwich-type ELISA method using a single mixture of human serum sample with an anti-FLT1 antibody and heparin-beads, namely heparin-beads-coupled ELISA (HB-ELISA). This method takes only about 2 h, and the sFLT1 values were similar levels with commercially available recent ELISA kits: the serum sFLT1 protein was approximately 4.3-fold increased in severe PE compared with those in normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan.
| | - Haruka Matsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Qiang W, Wei R, Chen Y, Chen D. Clinical Pathological Features and Current Animal Models of Type 3 Macular Neovascularization. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:734860. [PMID: 34512255 PMCID: PMC8427186 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.734860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV3), or retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP), is a distinct type of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss in older persons. During the past decade, systematic investigation into the clinical, multimodal imaging, and histopathological features and therapeutic outcomes has provided important new insight into this disease. These studies favor the retinal origin of MNV3 and suggest the involvement of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, von Hippel–Lindau (VHL)–hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, and multiple cell types in the development and progression of MNV3. Several mouse models, including the recently built Rb/p107/Vhl triple knockout mouse model by our group, have induced many of the histological features of MNV3 and provided much insight into the underlying pathological mechanisms. These models have revealed the roles of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, VHL/HIF pathway, and retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (Rb)–E2F cell cycle pathway in the development of MNV3. This article will summarize the clinical, multimodal imaging, and pathological features of MNV3 and the diversity of animal models that exist for MNV3, as well as their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Qiang
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ran Wei
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongjiang Chen
- The School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Danian Chen
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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15
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THE RAP STUDY, REPORT TWO: The Regional Distribution of Macular Neovascularization Type 3, a Novel Insight Into Its Etiology. Retina 2021; 40:2255-2262. [PMID: 32032256 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000002774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the regional distribution of macular neovascularization type 3 (MNV3). METHODS Seventy-eight eyes of 78 patients were reviewed. We defined the location of each lesion after applying a modified ETDRS grid and the incidence of simultaneous MNV1 or 2. Also, we investigated the distribution of MNV3 at the outline of the foveal avascular zone and when the diameter of foveal avascular zone was less than 325 µm. RESULTS The distribution of MNV3 was 4 lesions (5%) from the center to 500 µm, 72 (92%) from 500 µm to 1500 µm, and 2 (3%) from 1,500 µm to 3000 µm. The distribution in respect of the ETDRS fields was 7 (9%) nasal, 16 (20%) superior, 32 (40%) temporal, and 23 (31%) inferior. No additional MNV1 or 2 were found elsewhere. Most lesions tended to distribute along straight bands radiating from the perifoveal area, mainly in the temporal half (72%). None of the cases had MNV3 at the boundary of the foveal avascular zone. Only five cases had foveal avascular zone diameter of less than 325 µm, the closest lesion was 425 µm away from the center. CONCLUSION MNV3 lesions are most likely neither symmetrical nor uniformly distributed. They have a higher affinity to distribute radially in the temporal perifoveal area.
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16
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Uemura A, Fruttiger M, D'Amore PA, De Falco S, Joussen AM, Sennlaub F, Brunck LR, Johnson KT, Lambrou GN, Rittenhouse KD, Langmann T. VEGFR1 signaling in retinal angiogenesis and microinflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 84:100954. [PMID: 33640465 PMCID: PMC8385046 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Five vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) ligands (VEGF-A, -B, -C, -D, and placental growth factor [PlGF]) constitute the VEGF family. VEGF-A binds VEGF receptors 1 and 2 (VEGFR1/2), whereas VEGF-B and PlGF only bind VEGFR1. Although much research has been conducted on VEGFR2 to elucidate its key role in retinal diseases, recent efforts have shown the importance and involvement of VEGFR1 and its family of ligands in angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and microinflammatory cascades within the retina. Expression of VEGFR1 depends on the microenvironment, is differentially regulated under hypoxic and inflammatory conditions, and it has been detected in retinal and choroidal endothelial cells, pericytes, retinal and choroidal mononuclear phagocytes (including microglia), Müller cells, photoreceptor cells, and the retinal pigment epithelium. Whilst the VEGF-A decoy function of VEGFR1 is well established, consequences of its direct signaling are less clear. VEGFR1 activation can affect vascular permeability and induce macrophage and microglia production of proinflammatory and proangiogenic mediators. However the ability of the VEGFR1 ligands (VEGF-A, PlGF, and VEGF-B) to compete against each other for receptor binding and to heterodimerize complicates our understanding of the relative contribution of VEGFR1 signaling alone toward the pathologic processes seen in diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, retinopathy of prematurity, and age-related macular degeneration. Clinically, anti-VEGF drugs have proven transformational in these pathologies and their impact on modulation of VEGFR1 signaling is still an opportunity-rich field for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyoshi Uemura
- Department of Retinal Vascular Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Marcus Fruttiger
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
| | - Patricia A D'Amore
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Sandro De Falco
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati-Traverso", Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy; ANBITION S.r.l., Via Manzoni 1, 80123, Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonia M Joussen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, and Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Florian Sennlaub
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France.
| | - Lynne R Brunck
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Kristian T Johnson
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - George N Lambrou
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Kay D Rittenhouse
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Pharmaceuticals, Peter-Merian-Strasse 84, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Langmann
- Laboratory for Experimental Immunology of the Eye, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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17
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HK2 Mediated Glycolytic Metabolism in Mouse Photoreceptors Is Not Required to Cause Late Stage Age-Related Macular Degeneration-Like Pathologies. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11060871. [PMID: 34208233 PMCID: PMC8230848 DOI: 10.3390/biom11060871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease of unclear etiology. We previously proposed that metabolic adaptations in photoreceptors (PRs) play a role in disease progression. We mimicked these metabolic adaptations in mouse PRs through deletion of the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) protein TSC1. Here, we confirm our previous findings by deletion of the other complex protein, namely TSC2, in rod photoreceptors. Similar to deletion of Tsc1, mice with deletion of Tsc2 in rods develop AMD-like pathologies, including accumulation of apolipoproteins, migration of microglia, geographic atrophy, and neovascular pathologies. Subtle differences between the two mouse models, such as a significant increase in microglia activation with loss of Tsc2, were seen as well. To investigate the role of altered glucose metabolism in disease pathogenesis, we generated mice with simulation deletions of Tsc2 and hexokinase-2 (Hk2) in rods. Although retinal lactate levels returned to normal in mice with Tsc2-Hk2 deletion, AMD-like pathologies still developed. The data suggest that the metabolic adaptations in PRs that cause AMD-like pathologies are independent of HK2-mediated aerobic glycolysis.
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18
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Li X, Liu Y, Sun M, Gao M, Li T, Liang J, Zhai Y, Xu M, She X, Yang S, Liu W, Luo X, Sun X. Photoreceptors Degenerate Through Pyroptosis After Experimental Retinal Detachment. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:31. [PMID: 32697303 PMCID: PMC7425730 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Gasdermin D (GSDMD) is crucial in neuronal pyroptosis. GSDMD-N and GSDMD-C are two subdomains of the protein GSDMD. GSDMD-N is an executor of pyroptosis, and GSDMD-C has an inhibitory effect on pyroptotic cell death. This study evaluated the role of GSDMD in photoreceptor cell pyroptosis caused by retinal detachment (RD). Methods RD models were established in rats, and GSDMD cleavage was detected by western blotting. The morphology of photoreceptors was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. Some rats were given subretinal injections of recombinant adeno-associated virus 2/8 (rAAV2/8)–GSDMD-C before RD surgery. We documented the expression of caspase-1 and GSDMD-N in retinas by western blot. Levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were detected by quantitative RT-PCR. The membrane integrity of photoreceptors was evaluated by TOTO-3 iodide staining. Retinal function was measured by electroretinography, and the thickness of the outer nuclear layer was also recorded. We measured the activation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), F4/80, and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1) by immunofluorescence. Results The cleavage of GSDMD peaked at 1 day after RD. The administration of rAAV2/8–GSDMD-C reduced the pyroptosis and subsequent apoptosis of photoreceptors and preserved the retinal function after RD. Expression of IL-1, TNF-α, and MCP-1 was decreased in the rAAV2/8–GSDMD-C group. In addition, the activation of GFAP, Iba-1, and F4/80 in retinas was alleviated by administering rAAV2/8–GSDMD-C after RD. Conclusions GSDMD participates in the pyroptosis of photoreceptor after RD. Overexpression of GSDMD-C may block GSDMD cleavage and attenuate photoreceptor degeneration.
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19
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Wright CB, Uehara H, Kim Y, Yasuma T, Yasuma R, Hirahara S, Makin RD, Apicella I, Pereira F, Nagasaka Y, Narendran S, Fukuda S, Albuquerque R, Fowler BJ, Bastos-Carvalho A, Georgel P, Hatada I, Chang B, Kerur N, Ambati BK, Ambati J, Gelfand BD. Chronic Dicer1 deficiency promotes atrophic and neovascular outer retinal pathologies in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:2579-2587. [PMID: 31964819 PMCID: PMC7007521 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1909761117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) and aberrant blood vessel growth in the eye are advanced-stage processes in blinding diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Loss of the RNase DICER1, an essential factor in micro-RNA biogenesis, is implicated in RPE atrophy. However, the functional implications of DICER1 loss in choroidal and retinal neovascularization are unknown. Here, we report that two independent hypomorphic mouse strains, as well as a separate model of postnatal RPE-specific DICER1 ablation, all presented with spontaneous RPE degeneration and choroidal and retinal neovascularization. DICER1 hypomorphic mice lacking critical inflammasome components or the innate immune adaptor MyD88 developed less severe RPE atrophy and pathological neovascularization. DICER1 abundance was also reduced in retinas of the JR5558 mouse model of spontaneous choroidal neovascularization. Finally, adenoassociated vector-mediated gene delivery of a truncated DICER1 variant (OptiDicer) reduced spontaneous choroidal neovascularization in JR5558 mice. Collectively, these findings significantly expand the repertoire of DICER1 in preserving retinal homeostasis by preventing both RPE degeneration and pathological neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles B Wright
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350
| | - Younghee Kim
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Tetsuhiro Yasuma
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506
| | - Reo Yasuma
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Shuichiro Hirahara
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Ryan D Makin
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Molecular and Cellular Basis of Disease Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Ivana Apicella
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Felipe Pereira
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Yosuke Nagasaka
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Siddharth Narendran
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Aravind Medical Research Foundation, Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625020, India
| | - Shinichi Fukuda
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Romulo Albuquerque
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506
| | - Benjamin J Fowler
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506
| | - Ana Bastos-Carvalho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506
| | - Philippe Georgel
- Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, INSERM UMR-S1109, LabEx Transplantex, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, 67085 Strasbourg, France
- Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Université de Strasbourg, 67085 Strasbourg, France
| | - Izuho Hatada
- Laboratory of Genome Science, Biosignal Genome Resource Center, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi 371-8512, Japan
| | - Bo Chang
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
| | - Nagaraj Kerur
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | | | - Jayakrishna Ambati
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Bradley D Gelfand
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903;
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia School of Engineering, Charlottesville, VA 22904
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Ali Z, Cui D, Yang Y, Tracey-White D, Vazquez-Rodriguez G, Moosajee M, Ju R, Li X, Cao Y, Jensen LD. Synchronized tissue-scale vasculogenesis and ubiquitous lateral sprouting underlie the unique architecture of the choriocapillaris. Dev Biol 2020; 457:206-214. [PMID: 30796893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The choriocapillaris is an exceptionally high density, two-dimensional, sheet-like capillary network, characterized by the highest exchange rate of nutrients for waste products per area in the organism. These unique morphological and physiological features are critical for supporting the extreme metabolic requirements of the outer retina needed for vision. The developmental mechanisms and processes responsible for generating this unique vascular network remain, however, poorly understood. Here we take advantage of the zebrafish as a model organism for gaining novel insights into the cellular dynamics and molecular signaling mechanisms involved in the development of the choriocapillaris. We show for the first time that zebrafish have a choriocapillaris highly similar to that in mammals, and that it is initially formed by a novel process of synchronized vasculogenesis occurring simultaneously across the entire outer retina. This initial vascular network expands by un-inhibited sprouting angiogenesis whereby all endothelial cells adopt tip-cell characteristics, a process which is sustained throughout embryonic and early post-natal development, even after the choriocapillaris becomes perfused. Ubiquitous sprouting was maintained by continuous VEGF-VEGFR2 signaling in endothelial cells delaying maturation until immediately before stages where vision becomes important for survival, leading to the unparalleled high density and lobular structure of this vasculature. Sprouting was throughout development limited to two dimensions by Bruch's membrane and the sclera at the anterior and posterior surfaces respectively. These novel cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying choriocapillaris development were recapitulated in mice. In conclusion, our findings reveal novel mechanisms underlying the development of the choriocapillaris during zebrafish and mouse development. These results may explain the uniquely high density and sheet-like organization of this vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaheer Ali
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Dongmei Cui
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yunlong Yang
- Department of Cellular and Genetic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China; Institute of Pan-vascular Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, PR China
| | - Dhani Tracey-White
- Department of Ocular Biology and Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Gabriela Vazquez-Rodriguez
- Department of Oncology and Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Department of Ocular Biology and Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Rong Ju
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xuri Li
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yihai Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lasse D Jensen
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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21
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Crumbs proteins regulate layered retinal vascular development required for vision. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 521:939-946. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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22
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Xiao M, Liu Y, Wang L, Liang J, Wang T, Zhai Y, Wang Y, Liu S, Liu W, Luo X, Wang F, Sun X. Intraocular VEGF deprivation induces degeneration and fibrogenic response in retina. FASEB J 2019; 33:13920-13934. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901283rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Meichun Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyu Wang
- GloriousMed Technology Company, Limited, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianjun Wang
- School of Life Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Yuanqi Zhai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yafang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjia Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueting Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenghua Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, China
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Payne LB, Zhao H, James CC, Darden J, McGuire D, Taylor S, Smyth JW, Chappell JC. The pericyte microenvironment during vascular development. Microcirculation 2019; 26:e12554. [PMID: 31066166 PMCID: PMC6834874 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular pericytes provide critical contributions to the formation and integrity of the blood vessel wall within the microcirculation. Pericytes maintain vascular stability and homeostasis by promoting endothelial cell junctions and depositing extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the vascular basement membrane, among other vital functions. As their importance in sustaining microvessel health within various tissues and organs continues to emerge, so does their role in a number of pathological conditions including cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and neurological disorders. Here, we review vascular pericyte contributions to the development and remodeling of the microcirculation, with a focus on the local microenvironment during these processes. We discuss observations of their earliest involvement in vascular development and essential cues for their recruitment to the remodeling endothelium. Pericyte involvement in the angiogenic sprouting context is also considered with specific attention to crosstalk with endothelial cells such as through signaling regulation and ECM deposition. We also address specific aspects of the collective cell migration and dynamic interactions between pericytes and endothelial cells during angiogenic sprouting. Lastly, we discuss pericyte contributions to mechanisms underlying the transition from active vessel remodeling to the maturation and quiescence phase of vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Huaning Zhao
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Carissa C. James
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Jordan Darden
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - David McGuire
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Sarah Taylor
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - James W. Smyth
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - John C. Chappell
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
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24
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Overlap between telangiectasia and photoreceptor loss increases with progression of macular telangiectasia type 2. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224393. [PMID: 31658282 PMCID: PMC6816569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the topographical correlation between ellipsoid zone loss and telangiectasia in the deep capillary plexus in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel). METHODS 38 eyes (20 subjects) diagnosed with MacTel were imaged with OCTA between March 2016 and June 2019 in this single center, cross-sectional observational study. The en face OCTA and OCT were evaluated for areas of deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and ellipsoid zone loss, respectively, and their outlines were superimposed to study their overlap (mm2). The primary outcome was percentage of overlap and its relationship to MacTel stage. Secondary outcomes included the relationship between neovascularization and hyperreflective foci as well as correlations between ellipsoid zone loss, deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and visual acuity. RESULTS In nonproliferative MacTel stage, ellipsoid zone loss was localized to margins of telangiectatic areas (mean overlap = 15.2%). In proliferative stages, ellipsoid zone loss showed a higher degree of overlap with telangiectatic areas (mean overlap = 62.8%). Overlap increased with advancing MacTel stages, with an overall average of 45.3%. Overlap correlated highly with ellipsoid zone loss (r = 0.831; p<0.0001). Telangiectasia was present in all 38 eyes (range: 0.08mm2-0.99mm2), while ellipsoid zone loss was absent in 6 (range: 0.00-3.32mm2). Visual acuity correlated most strongly with ellipsoid zone loss (r = 0.569; p = 0.0002), followed by overlap (r = 0.544; p = 0.0004), and finally, telangiectasia (r = 0.404; p<0.0118). Presence of hyperreflective foci on OCT correlated with the presence and intraretinal location of neovascularization. CONCLUSIONS Ellipsoid zone loss occurs at the margins of deep capillary plexus telangiectasia in nonproliferative MacTel, with progressively increasing overlap as MacTel advances, peaking in proliferative disease. Deep capillary plexus telangiectasia and its overlap with ellipsoid zone loss are two promising markers of nonproliferative MacTel, while hyper-reflective foci are markers for proliferative MacTel.
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25
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Chappell JC, Darden J, Payne LB, Fink K, Bautch VL. Blood Vessel Patterning on Retinal Astrocytes Requires Endothelial Flt-1 (VEGFR-1). J Dev Biol 2019; 7:jdb7030018. [PMID: 31500294 PMCID: PMC6787756 DOI: 10.3390/jdb7030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Feedback mechanisms are critical components of many pro-angiogenic signaling pathways that keep vessel growth within a functional range. The Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A) pathway utilizes the decoy VEGF-A receptor Flt-1 to provide negative feedback regulation of VEGF-A signaling. In this study, we investigated how the genetic loss of flt-1 differentially affects the branching complexity of vascular networks in tissues despite similar effects on endothelial sprouting. We selectively ablated flt-1 in the post-natal retina and found that maximum induction of flt-1 loss resulted in alterations in endothelial sprouting and filopodial extension, ultimately yielding hyper-branched networks in the absence of changes in retinal astrocyte architecture. The mosaic deletion of flt-1 revealed that sprouting endothelial cells flanked by flt-1−/− regions of vasculature more extensively associated with underlying astrocytes and exhibited aberrant sprouting, independent of the tip cell genotype. Overall, our data support a model in which tissue patterning features, such as retinal astrocytes, integrate with flt-1-regulated angiogenic molecular and cellular mechanisms to yield optimal vessel patterning for a given tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Chappell
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Jordan Darden
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Kathryn Fink
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Victoria L Bautch
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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26
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Niaudet C, Petkova M, Jung B, Lu S, Laviña B, Offermanns S, Brakebusch C, Betsholtz C. Adgrf5 contributes to patterning of the endothelial deep layer in retina. Angiogenesis 2019; 22:491-505. [PMID: 31256320 PMCID: PMC6863953 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-019-09674-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neovascularization of the inner retinal space is a major cause of vision loss. In retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP) syndrome, newly formed vessels originate from the retinal plexus and invade the inner retinal space. However, the molecular pathways preventing subretinal vascularization remain largely unknown. In most murine models of RAP, pathological neovascularization occurs concomitantly with the development of the retinal vasculature. Here, we demonstrate that disturbing the sequence of morphogenetic events that shape the three-layered retinal vascular network leads to subretinal vascularization. Sprouts emerging from the perivenous region after the first postnatal week extended toward the retinal space where they merged into the deep layer. The small GTPase Rac1 was required for the formation of these vascular extensions and the vascular inner plexus is formed coaxially to the overarching veins. The adhesion receptor Adgrf5 was highly expressed in the endothelium of the central nervous system, where it regulates blood–brain barrier formation. The vascular superficial plexus of Adgrf5 mutant mouse retinae exhibited an increased vascular density in the perivenous areas with increased projections toward the inner plexus where they subsequently created hyper-dense endothelial cells (EC) clusters. Disturbing the perivenous pool of EC thus significantly altered the inner plexus formation. These abnormalities culminated in transient vascular protrusions in the inner retinal space. Taken together, these results reveal a previously unobserved vascular morphogenetic defect in Adgrf5 knockout mice, implicating a role for ADGRF5 in the initiation of subretinal vascularization. Our findings also illustrate how vein-derived EC shape the inner retinal layer formation and could control the appearance of angiomatous malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Niaudet
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - M Petkova
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - B Jung
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - S Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, 61231, Germany
| | - B Laviña
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - S Offermanns
- Department of Pharmacology, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, 61231, Germany
| | - C Brakebusch
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Betsholtz
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
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27
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Zhao H, Chappell JC. Microvascular bioengineering: a focus on pericytes. J Biol Eng 2019; 13:26. [PMID: 30984287 PMCID: PMC6444752 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-019-0158-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Capillaries within the microcirculation are essential for oxygen delivery and nutrient/waste exchange, among other critical functions. Microvascular bioengineering approaches have sought to recapitulate many key features of these capillary networks, with an increasing appreciation for the necessity of incorporating vascular pericytes. Here, we briefly review established and more recent insights into important aspects of pericyte identification and function within the microvasculature. We then consider the importance of including vascular pericytes in various bioengineered microvessel platforms including 3D culturing and microfluidic systems. We also discuss how vascular pericytes are a vital component in the construction of computational models that simulate microcirculation phenomena including angiogenesis, microvascular biomechanics, and kinetics of exchange across the vessel wall. In reviewing these topics, we highlight the notion that incorporating pericytes into microvascular bioengineering applications will increase their utility and accelerate the translation of basic discoveries to clinical solutions for vascular-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaning Zhao
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016 USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
| | - John C Chappell
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016 USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA.,3Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016 USA
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28
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Beharry KD, Cai CL, Siddiqui F, Chowdhury S, D'Agrosa C, Valencia GB, Aranda JV. Comparative Effects of Coenzyme Q10 or n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Retinal Angiogenesis in a Rat Model of Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2018; 7:E160. [PMID: 30423931 PMCID: PMC6262377 DOI: 10.3390/antiox7110160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal intermittent hypoxia (IH) or apnea afflicts 70% to 90% of all preterm infants <28 weeks gestation, and is associated with severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). We tested the hypotheses that coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) supplementation during neonatal IH reduces the severity of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Newborn rats were exposed to two IH paradigms: (1) 50% O₂ with brief hypoxia (12% O₂); or (2) 21% O₂ with brief hypoxia, until postnatal day 14 (P14), during which they received daily oral CoQ10 in olive oil, n-3 PUFAs in fish oil, or olive oil only and compared to room air (RA) treated groups. Pups were examined at P14, or placed in RA until P21. Retinal angiogenesis, histopathology, and morphometry were determined. Both IH paradigms produced severe OIR, but these were worsened with 50/12% O₂ IH. CoQ10 and n-3 PUFAs reduced the severity of OIR, as well as ocular growth factors in both IH paradigms, but CoQ10 was more effective in 50/12% O₂ IH. Supplementation with either CoQ10 or n-3 PUFAs targeting IH-induced retinal injury is individually effective for ameliorating specific characteristics consistent with ROP. Given the complexity of ROP, further studies are needed to determine whether combined CoQ10 and n-3 PUFAs supplementation would optimize their efficacy and result in a better outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay D Beharry
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology; State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
- State University of New York Department of Ophthalmology Eye Institute, New York, NY 10062, USA.
| | - Charles L Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Faisal Siddiqui
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Sara Chowdhury
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Christina D'Agrosa
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Gloria B Valencia
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Jacob V Aranda
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology; State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
- State University of New York Department of Ophthalmology Eye Institute, New York, NY 10062, USA.
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29
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The role of placental growth factor (PlGF) and its receptor system in retinal vascular diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 69:116-136. [PMID: 30385175 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family. Upon binding to VEGF- and neuropilin-receptor sub-types, PlGF modulates a range of neural, glial and vascular cell responses that are distinct from VEGF-A. As PlGF expression is selectively associated with pathological angiogenesis and inflammation, its blockade does not affect the healthy vasculature. PlGF actions have been extensively described in tumor biology but more recently there has been accumulating preclinical evidence that indicates that this growth factor could have an important role in retinal diseases. High levels of PlGF have been found in aqueous humor, vitreous and/or retina of patients exhibiting retinopathies, especially those with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD). Expression of this growth factor seems to correlate closely with many of the key pathogenic features of early and late retinopathy in preclinical models. For example, studies using genetic modification and/or pharmacological treatment to block PlGF in the laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model, oxygen-induced retinopathy model, as well as various murine diabetic models, have shown that PlGF deletion or inhibition can reduce neovascularization, retinal leakage, inflammation and gliosis, without affecting vascular development or inducing neuronal degeneration. Moreover, an inhibitory effect of PlGF blockade on retinal scarring in the mouse CNV model has also been recently demonstrated and was found to be unique for PlGF inhibition, as compared to various VEGF inhibition strategies. Together, these preclinical results suggest that anti-PlGF therapy might have advantages over anti-VEGF treatment, and that it may have clinical applications as a standalone treatment or in combination with anti-VEGF. Additional clinical studies are clearly needed to further elucidate the role of PlGF and its potential as a therapeutic target in ocular diseases.
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30
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Darden J, Payne LB, Zhao H, Chappell JC. Excess vascular endothelial growth factor-A disrupts pericyte recruitment during blood vessel formation. Angiogenesis 2018; 22:167-183. [PMID: 30238211 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-018-9648-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pericyte investment into new blood vessels is essential for vascular development such that mis-regulation within this phase of vessel formation can contribute to numerous pathologies including arteriovenous and cerebrovascular malformations. It is critical therefore to illuminate how angiogenic signaling pathways intersect to regulate pericyte migration and investment. Here, we disrupted vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) signaling in ex vivo and in vitro models of sprouting angiogenesis, and found pericyte coverage to be compromised during VEGF-A perturbations. Pericytes had little to no expression of VEGF receptors, suggesting VEGF-A signaling defects affect endothelial cells directly but pericytes indirectly. Live imaging of ex vivo angiogenesis in mouse embryonic skin revealed limited pericyte migration during exposure to exogenous VEGF-A. During VEGF-A gain-of-function conditions, pericytes and endothelial cells displayed abnormal transcriptional changes within the platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B) and Notch pathways. To further test potential crosstalk between these pathways in pericytes, we stimulated embryonic pericytes with Notch ligands Delta-like 4 (Dll4) and Jagged-1 (Jag1) and found induction of Notch pathway activity but no changes in PDGF Receptor-β (Pdgfrβ) expression. In contrast, PDGFRβ protein levels decreased with mis-regulated VEGF-A activity, observed in the effects on full-length PDGFRβ and a truncated PDGFRβ isoform generated by proteolytic cleavage or potentially by mRNA splicing. Overall, these observations support a model in which, during the initial stages of vascular development, pericyte distribution and coverage are indirectly affected by endothelial cell VEGF-A signaling and the downstream regulation of PDGF-B-PDGFRβ dynamics, without substantial involvement of pericyte Notch signaling during these early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Darden
- Center for Heart and Regenerative Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA.,Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Heart and Regenerative Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA
| | - Huaning Zhao
- Center for Heart and Regenerative Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - John C Chappell
- Center for Heart and Regenerative Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA. .,Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA. .,Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA.
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Human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A 165 Expression Induces the Mouse Model of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9090438. [PMID: 30200369 PMCID: PMC6162490 DOI: 10.3390/genes9090438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression induces age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a common vision-threatening disease due to choroidal neovascularization and a fibrovascular membrane. We describe a mouse model of neovascular AMD with the local expression of human VEGF-A165 in the eye. We use a transgenic mouse in which human VEGF-A165 has been silenced with the loxP-STOP fragment. The choroidal neovascularization and human VEGF-A165 expression in the mouse are induced by subretinal adenoviral Cre gene delivery. Cre gene transfer is compared with adenoviral LacZ gene transfer control. We characterize the AMD phenotype and changes in the vasculature by using fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and immunohistochemistry. At early time points, mice exhibit increases in retinal thickness (348 ± 114 µm vs. 231 ± 32 µm) and choroidal neovascularization area (12000 ± 15174 µm² vs. 2169 ± 3495 µm²) compared with the control. At later time points, choroidal neovascularization develops into subretinal fibrovascular membrane. Human VEGF-A165 expression lasts several weeks. In conclusion, the retinas display vascular abnormalities consistent with choroidal neovascularization. Together with immunohistochemical findings, these changes resemble clinical AMD-like ocular pathologies. We conclude that this mouse model of Cre-induced choroidal neovascularization is useful for mimicking the pathogenesis of AMD, studying the effects of human VEGF-A165 in the retina, and evaluating anti-VEGF treatments for choroidal neovascularization.
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Lacal PM, Graziani G. Therapeutic implication of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) targeting in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment by competitive and non-competitive inhibitors. Pharmacol Res 2018; 136:97-107. [PMID: 30170190 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) is a tyrosine kinase receptor for VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) ligands that is expressed in endothelial, myelomonocytic and tumor cells. VEGF-B and PlGF exclusively bind to VEGFR-1, whereas VEGF-A also binds to VEGFR-2. At variance with VEGFR-2, VEGFR-1 does not play a relevant role in physiological angiogenesis in the adult, while it is important in tumor-associated angiogenesis. VEGFR-1 and PlGF are expressed in a variety of tumors, promote invasiveness and contribute to resistance to anti-VEGF-A therapy. The currently approved antiangiogenic therapies for the treatment of a variety of solid tumors hamper VEGF-A signaling mediated by both VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-1 [i.e., the monoclonal antibody (mAb) anti-VEGF-A bevacizumab, the chimeric molecule aflibercept and several small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors] or exclusively by VEGFR-2 (i.e., the mAb anti-VEGFR-2 ramucirumab). However, molecules that interfere with VEGF-A/VEGFR-2 signaling determine severe adverse effects due to inhibition of physiological angiogenesis and their efficacy is hampered by tumor infiltration of protumoral myeloid cells. Blockade of VEGFR-1 may exert anti-tumor activity by multiple mechanisms: a) inhibition of tumor-associated angiogenesis; b) reduction of myeloid progenitor mobilization and tumor infiltration by VEGFR-1 expressing M2 macrophages, which contribute to tumor progression and spreading; c) inhibition of invasiveness, vasculogenic mimicry and survival of VEGFR-1 positive tumor cells. As a consequence of these properties, molecules targeting VEGFR-1 are expected to produce less adverse effects and to counteract resistance towards anti-VEGF-A therapies. More interestingly, selective VEGFR-1 inhibition might enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we will examine the experimental evidence available so far that supports targeting VEGFR-1 signal transduction pathway for cancer treatment by competitive inhibitors that prevent growth factor interaction with the receptor and non-competitive inhibitors that hamper receptor activation without affecting ligand binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy.
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
Previous models of disease in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were incomplete in that they did not encompass subretinal drusenoid deposits (pseudodrusen), subtypes of neovascularization, and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. In addition, Type 3 neovascularization starts in the retina and may not necessarily involve the choroid. As such, the term choroidal neovascularization is not appropriate for these eyes. The new aspects in the AMD construct are to include specific lipoprotein extracellular accumulations, namely drusen and subretinal drusenoid deposits, as early AMD. The deposition of specific types of deposit seems to be highly correlated with choroidal thickness and topographical location in the macula. Late AMD includes macular neovascularization or atrophy. The particular type of extracellular deposit is predictive of the future course of the patient. For example, eyes with subretinal drusenoid deposits have a propensity to develop outer retinal atrophy, complete outer retinal and retinal pigment epithelial atrophy, or Type 3 neovascularization as specific forms of late AMD. Given Type 3 neovascularization may never involve the choroid, the term macular neovascularization is suggested for the entire spectrum of neovascular disease in AMD. In contrast to older classification systems, the proposed system encompasses the relevant presentations of disease and more precisely predicts the future course of the patient. In doing so, the concept was developed that there may be genetic risk alleles, which are not necessarily the same alleles that influence disease expression.
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Capossela S, Bertolo A, Gunasekera K, Pötzel T, Baur M, Stoyanov JV. VEGF vascularization pathway in human intervertebral disc does not change during the disc degeneration process. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:333. [PMID: 29784013 PMCID: PMC5963106 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective During degeneration of the intervertebral disc ingrowth of blood vessels and nerves into the disc are associated with back pain. Vascular endothelial growth factors promote vasculogenesis by binding to the membrane vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1, while shorter soluble forms of this receptor can inhibit vascularization. We hypothesized that membrane and soluble receptor forms might change between stages of intervertebral disc degeneration. Results Expression of soluble and membrane forms of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 in human degenerated intervertebral discs and healthy bovine caudal discs was assessed by qRT-PCR and immunoblot. Comparative microarray meta-analysis across disc degeneration grades showed that membrane and soluble forms of this receptor, together with other components of classic vascularization pathways, are constitutively expressed across human disc degeneration stages. Contrary to our hypothesis, we observed that expression of the classic vascularization pathway is stable across degeneration stages and we assume that soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 does not contribute to prevent disc degeneration. However, we observed increased expression levels of genes involved in alternative vascularization signalling pathways in severely degenerated discs, suggesting that abnormal vascularization is part of the pathological progression of disc degeneration. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3441-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capossela
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Alessandro Bertolo
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Kapila Gunasekera
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | | | - Martin Baur
- Swiss Paraplegic Centre, Nottwil, Switzerland.,Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Jivko V Stoyanov
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland.
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Failla CM, Carbo M, Morea V. Positive and Negative Regulation of Angiogenesis by Soluble Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051306. [PMID: 29702562 PMCID: PMC5983705 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1 exists in different forms, derived from alternative splicing of the same gene. In addition to the transmembrane form, endothelial cells produce a soluble VEGFR-1 (sVEGFR-1) isoform, whereas non-endothelial cells produce both sVEGFR-1 and a different soluble molecule, known as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt)1-14. By binding members of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, the soluble forms reduce the amounts of VEGFs available for the interaction with their transmembrane receptors, thereby negatively regulating VEGFR-mediated signaling. In agreement with this activity, high levels of circulating sVEGFR-1 or sFlt1-14 are associated with different pathological conditions involving vascular dysfunction. Moreover, sVEGFR-1 and sFlt1-14 have an additional role in angiogenesis: they are deposited in the endothelial cell and pericyte extracellular matrix, and interact with cell membrane components. Interaction of sVEGFR-1 with α5β1 integrin on endothelial cell membranes regulates vessel growth, triggering a dynamic, pro-angiogenic phenotype. Interaction of sVEGFR-1/sFlt1-14 with cell membrane glycosphingolipids in lipid rafts controls kidney cell morphology and glomerular barrier functions. These cell⁻matrix contacts represent attractive novel targets for pharmacological intervention in addition to those addressing interactions between VEGFs and their receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miriam Carbo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Veronica Morea
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology c/o, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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She X, Lu X, Li T, Sun J, Liang J, Zhai Y, Yang S, Gu Q, Wei F, Zhu H, Wang F, Luo X, Sun X. Inhibition of Mitochondrial Fission Preserves Photoreceptors after Retinal Detachment. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:1713-1722. [PMID: 29684364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Photoreceptor degeneration is a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. Separation of neurosensory retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium is a prominent feature preceding photoreceptor degeneration in a variety of retinal diseases. Although ophthalmic surgical procedures have been well developed to restore retinal structures, postoperative patients usually experience progressive photoreceptor degeneration and irreversible vision loss that is incurable at present. Previous studies point to a critical role of mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway in photoreceptor degeneration, but the upstream triggers remain largely unexplored. In this study, we show that after experimental retinal detachment induction, photoreceptors activate dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1)-dependent mitochondrial fission pathway and subsequent apoptotic cascades. Mechanistically, endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) are necessary for Drp1 activation in vivo, and exogenous ROS insult is sufficient to activate Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission in cultured photoreceptors. Accordingly, inhibition of Drp1 activity effectively preserves mitochondrial integrity and rescues photoreceptors. Collectively, our data delineate an ROS-Drp1-mitochondria axis that promotes photoreceptor degeneration in retinal diseased models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun She
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai
| | - Xinmin Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai
| | - Junran Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai
| | - Jian Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai
| | - Yuanqi Zhai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai
| | - Shiqi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai
| | - Qing Gu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Wei
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai
| | - Fenghua Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai
| | - Xueting Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai First People's Hospital), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Fundus Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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VASCULAR DISTORTION AND DRAGGING RELATED TO APPARENT TISSUE CONTRACTION IN MACULAR TELANGIECTASIS TYPE 2. Retina 2018; 38 Suppl 1:S51-S60. [PMID: 28492432 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000001694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the alterations in retinal vascular morphology over an extended follow-up in eyes with macular telangiectasis Type 2 (MacTel2). METHODS Eyes with high-quality digital photographs were evaluated. The geometric distortion in baseline images required to emulate the follow-up images was determined and vectors were made that represented the direction and magnitude of changes, to create a warp field. Optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography evaluation of the retina was performed. RESULTS There were 7 eyes of 4 patients, who had a mean age of 70.25 years, which were followed for a mean of 8.8 years. The eyes showed increasing grayish opacification in the temporal macula with straightening and displacement of the macular vessels, even those in the nasal macula. The warp field vectors pointed to the temporal juxtafoveal macula. There was never any cavitation at the epicenter of the retinal distortion in any patient, although cavitations were found around this area. Optical coherence tomography imaging showed a circumscribed region of hyperreflectivity in the temporal macula. Optical coherence tomography angiography showed a deep angular condensed network of vessels within the hyperreflective region. One eye showed marked atrophic changes including full-thickness macular hole formation, but no increase in graying of the retina, loss of retinal laminations, pigmentary infiltration, or alteration in the retinal vessels. CONCLUSION Tissue contraction with retinal vascular displacement and contortion seem to be integral aspects of disease manifestation in MacTel2. The induced vascular changes may lead to secondary effects that increase morbidity in this disease.
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Genova E, Pelin M, Decorti G, Stocco G, Sergo V, Ventura A, Bonifacio A. SERS of cells: What can we learn from cell lysates? Anal Chim Acta 2017; 1005:93-100. [PMID: 29389323 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a promising and emerging technique to analyze the cellular environment. We developed an alternative, rapid and label-free SERS-based method to get information about the cellular environment by analyzing cells lysates, thus avoiding the need to incorporate nanoparticles into cells. Upon sonicating and filtrating cells, we obtained lysates which, mixed with Au or Ag nanoparticles, yield stable and repeatable SERS spectra, whose overall profile depends on the metal used as substrate, but not on the buffer used for the lysis process. Bands appearing in these spectra were shown to arise mostly from the cytosol and were assigned to adenine, guanine, adenosine and reduced glutathione (GSH). Spectral differences among various cell types also demonstrated that this approach is suitable for cell type identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Genova
- PhD School of Reproduction and Developmental Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - M Pelin
- Dept. of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - G Decorti
- Dept. of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Via dell'Istria 65/1, Trieste, 34137, Italy
| | - G Stocco
- Dept. of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - V Sergo
- Dept. of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - A Ventura
- Dept. of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Via dell'Istria 65/1, Trieste, 34137, Italy
| | - A Bonifacio
- Dept. of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
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Chirco KR, Lewis CJ, Scheetz TE, Johnston RM, Tucker BA, Stone EM, Fingert JH, Mullins RF. Evaluation of sFLT1 protein levels in human eyes with the FLT1 rs9943922 polymorphism. Ophthalmic Genet 2017; 39:68-72. [PMID: 28949775 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2017.1369550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a devastating disease characterized by central vision impairment in individuals with advanced age. Neovascular AMD is a form of end-stage disease in which choroidal vessel outgrowth occurs beneath the retina. While many hypotheses have been raised as to what triggers the formation of pathological choroidal neovascular membranes, the exact mechanism for their initiation remains unresolved. Polymorphisms in the FLT1 gene have previously been associated with neovascular AMD risk, including the rs9943922 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). Here, we aimed to determine the association between the high-risk FLT1 genotype and FLT1 protein levels in human retina or retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid tissue. METHODS Retina and RPE/choroid tissue from 10 human donor eyes was selected from a collection of eyes genotyped for the rs9943922 SNP. Differences in soluble and membrane bound FLT1 protein levels were assessed for retina versus RPE/choroid donor tissue using ELISA and Western blotting analyses. Genotype-associated changes in FLT1 protein levels were also evaluated. RESULTS We found soluble FLT1 levels in the RPE/choroid tissue to be approximately three times higher than that of the retina (p < 0.001), while both samples have similar levels of the membrane bound form. When tissue with the rs9943922 SNP was compared with controls, no significant genotypic differences in FLT1 protein levels were observed. CONCLUSIONS Based on these data, we conclude that the rs9943922 SNP in the FLT1 gene does not result in a large difference in FLT1 protein levels, regardless of whether it is the soluble or the membrane bound form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen R Chirco
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Carly J Lewis
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Todd E Scheetz
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Rebecca M Johnston
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Edwin M Stone
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - John H Fingert
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- a The Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences , The University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA
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Saberi-Karimian M, Katsiki N, Caraglia M, Boccellino M, Majeed M, Sahebkar A. Vascular endothelial growth factor: An important molecular target of curcumin. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2017; 59:299-312. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2017.1366892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Saberi-Karimian
- Student Research Committee, Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Niki Katsiki
- Second Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippocration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli” 7, Via L. De Crecchio 7, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Boccellino
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli” 7, Via L. De Crecchio 7, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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VOLUME-RENDERED ANGIOGRAPHIC AND STRUCTURAL OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY OF MACULAR TELANGIECTASIA TYPE 2. Retina 2017; 37:424-435. [PMID: 27749698 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000001344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate multimodal imaging including volume-rendered angiographic and structural optical coherence tomography of macular telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel2) for right-angle vein complexes, macular cavitations, and signs of deeper retinal vascular invasion. METHODS Retrospective review of imaging performed in a community-based retinal referral center. The eyes were scanned using optical coherence tomography using split-spectrum amplitude-decorrelation techniques to derive flow information. These data were extracted and used to create volume-rendered images of the retinal vasculature with integrated structural information derived from the component optical coherence tomographic images. RESULTS There were 24 eyes of 16 patients who had a mean age of 61.8 years. Right-angle veins seemed in association with vascular proliferation external to the deep vascular plexus. The origin of a right-angle vein was surrounded by a stellate arrangement of radiating retinal vessels apparently caused by contraction of surrounding tissue in the temporal macula. Cavitations were found in the fovea and varied in size and configuration from one examination to the next. Many smaller cavitations, called microcavitations, were seen in the surrounding macula. Vascular invasion occurred into the subretinal space. CONCLUSION There are contractile features of the tissue in the temporal macula and the number, size, and temporal variations in the cavitations have not been in not mentioned in previous published descriptions of MacTel2. Vascular invasion of deeper layers occurred in the temporal macula through the outer nuclear layer. Volume-rendered angiographic and structural optical coherence tomography offers unprecedented ability to examine the vascular interrelationships their associations with cavitations in the macula.
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Moore NA, Bracha P, Hussain RM, Morral N, Ciulla TA. Gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 17:1235-1244. [PMID: 28726562 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2017.1356817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In neovascular age related macular degeneration (nAMD), gene therapy to chronically express anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proteins could ameliorate the treatment burden of chronic intravitreal therapy and improve limited visual outcomes associated with 'real world' undertreatment. Areas covered: In this review, the authors assess the evolution of gene therapy for AMD. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors can transduce retinal pigment epithelium; one such early application was a phase I trial of AAV2-delivered pigment epithelium derived factor gene in advanced nAMD. Subsequently, gene therapy for AMD shifted to the investigation of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT-1), an endogenously expressed VEGF inhibitor, binding and neutralizing VEGF-A. After some disappointing results, research has centered on novel vectors, including optimized AAV2, AAV8 and lentivirus, as well as genes encoding other anti-angiogenic proteins, including ranibizumab, aflibercept, angiostatin and endostatin. Also, gene therapy targeting the complement system is being investigated for geographic atrophy due to non-neovascular AMD. Expert opinion: The success of gene therapy for AMD will depend on the selection of the most appropriate therapeutic protein and its level of chronic expression. Future investigations will center on optimizing vector, promoter and delivery methods, and evaluating the risks of the chronic expression of anti-angiogenic or anti-complement proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Moore
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Peter Bracha
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Rehan M Hussain
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Nuria Morral
- c Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Indiana University School of Medicine , Indianapolis , IN , USA.,b Retina Service , Midwest Eye Institute , Indianapolis , IN , USA
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Sun Y, Lin Z, Liu CH, Gong Y, Liegl R, Fredrick TW, Meng SS, Burnim SB, Wang Z, Akula JD, Pu WT, Chen J, Smith LEH. Inflammatory signals from photoreceptor modulate pathological retinal angiogenesis via c-Fos. J Exp Med 2017; 214:1753-1767. [PMID: 28465464 PMCID: PMC5461000 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20161645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological neovessels growing into the normally avascular photoreceptors cause vision loss in many eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and macular telangiectasia. Ocular neovascularization is strongly associated with inflammation, but the source of inflammatory signals and the mechanisms by which these signals regulate the disruption of avascular privilege in photoreceptors are unknown. In this study, we found that c-Fos, a master inflammatory regulator, was increased in photoreceptors in a model of pathological blood vessels invading photoreceptors: the very low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Vldlr-/- ) mouse. Increased c-Fos induced inflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), leading to activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and increased TNFα-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3) in Vldlr-/- photoreceptors. IL-6 activated the STAT3/vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) pathway directly, and elevated TNFAIP3 suppressed SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling 3)-activated STAT3/VEGFA indirectly. Inhibition of c-Fos using photoreceptor-specific AAV (adeno-associated virus)-hRK (human rhodopsin kinase)-sh_c-fos or a chemical inhibitor substantially reduced the pathological neovascularization and rescued visual function in Vldlr-/- mice. These findings suggested that the photoreceptor c-Fos controls blood vessel growth into the normally avascular photoreceptor layer through the inflammatory signal-induced STAT3/VEGFA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Zhiqiang Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Chi-Hsiu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Raffael Liegl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Thomas W Fredrick
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Steven S Meng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Samuel B Burnim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Zhongxiao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - James D Akula
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - William T Pu
- Department of Cardiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Lois E H Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
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Uehara H, Muddana SK, Zhang X, Das SK, Bhuvanagiri S, Liu J, Wu Y, Choi S, Carroll LS, Archer B, Ambati BK. Targeted Delivery of FLT-Morpholino Using Cyclic RGD Peptide. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2017; 6:9. [PMID: 28553563 PMCID: PMC5444505 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.6.3.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We previously showed that intravitreal injection of the sFLT morpholino-oligomer (FLT-MO) suppresses laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice by decreasing the membrane bound form of Flt-1 while increasing the soluble form of Flt-1 via alternative splicing shift. In this study, we examined whether cyclic RGD peptide (cRGD) can promote morpholino-oligomer accumulation in CNV following tail vein injection, and whether systemic cRGD conjugated FLT-MO (cRGD-FLT-MO) suppresses CNV growth. Methods cRGD conjugated fluorescent morpholino-oligomer (cRGD-F-MO) was injected via tail vein into mice with previous retinal laser photocoagulation and examined for cRGD-F-MO accumulation in CNV. To examine whether cRGD-FLT-MO suppresses CNV growth, mice were tail-vein injected with cRGD-FLT-MO, cRGD conjugated standard morpholino-oligomer (cRGD-STD-MO), or Dulbecco's Phosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS) 1 and 4 days postlaser photocoagulation. Seven days postlaser photocoagulation, eyes were harvested and laser CNV was stained with isolectin GS-IB4, allowing quantification of CNV size by confocal microscopy. Results cRGD-F-MO accumulation in CNV commenced immediately after tail vein injection and could be observed even 1 day after injection. cRGD-FLT-MO tail vein injection significantly suppressed CNV size (2.7 × 105 ± 0.3 × 105 μm3, P < 0.05 by Student's t-test) compared with controls (DPBS: 5.1 × 105 ± 0.6 × 105 μm3 and cRGD-STD-MO: 5.5 × 105 ± 0.8 × 105 μm3). Conclusions cRGD peptide facilitates morpholino-oligomer accumulation in CNV following systemic delivery. cRGD-FLT-MO suppressed CNV growth after tail-vein injection, demonstrating the potential utility of cRGD peptide for morpholino-oligomer delivery to CNV. Translational Relevance Current therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration involves intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs. Our results indicate that CNV can be treated systemically, thus eliminating risks and hazards associated with intravitreal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Uehara
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Xiaohui Zhang
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Subrata Kumar Das
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sai Bhuvanagiri
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jinlu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Eye Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Susie Choi
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lara S Carroll
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bonnie Archer
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Zhang X, Bohner A, Bhuvanagiri S, Uehara H, Upadhyay AK, Emerson LL, Bondalapati S, Muddana SK, Fang D, Li M, Sandhu Z, Hussain A, Carroll LS, Tiem M, Archer B, Kompella U, Patil R, Ambati BK. Targeted Intraceptor Nanoparticle for Neovascular Macular Degeneration: Preclinical Dose Optimization and Toxicology Assessment. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1606-1615. [PMID: 28236576 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is treated with anti-VEGF intravitreal injections, which can cause geographic atrophy, infection, and retinal fibrosis. To minimize these toxicities, we developed a nanoparticle delivery system for recombinant Flt23k intraceptor plasmid (RGD.Flt23k.NP) to suppress VEGF intracellularly within choroidal neovascular (CNV) lesions in a laser-induced CNV mouse model through intravenous administration. In the current study, we examined the efficacy and safety of RGD.Flt23k.NP in mice. The effect of various doses was determined using fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography to evaluate CNV leakage and volume. Efficacy was determined by the rate of inhibition of CNV volume at 2 weeks post-treatment. RGD.Flt23k.NP had peak efficacy at a dose range of 30-60 μg pFlt23k/mouse. Using the lower dose (30 μg pFlt23k/mouse), RGD.Flt23k.NP safety was determined both in single-dose groups and in repeat-dose (three times) groups by measuring body weight, organ weight, hemoglobin levels, complement C3 levels, and histological changes in vital organs. Neither toxicity nor inflammation from RGD.Flt23k.NP was detected. No side effect was detected on visual function. Thus, systemic RGD.Flt23k.NP may be an alternative to standard intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy for the treatment of neovascular AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Zhang
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Austin Bohner
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Sai Bhuvanagiri
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Arun Kumar Upadhyay
- University of Colorado School of Pharmacy, Mail Stop C238, 12850 E. Montview Blvd. V20-4129, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Lyska L Emerson
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah and Associated Regional and University Pathologists (ARUP) Laboratories, 500 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Sailaja Bondalapati
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Santosh Kumar Muddana
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Daniel Fang
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Miaoling Li
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA; State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Zoya Sandhu
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Alya Hussain
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Lara S Carroll
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Michelle Tiem
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Bonnie Archer
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Uday Kompella
- University of Colorado School of Pharmacy, Mail Stop C238, 12850 E. Montview Blvd. V20-4129, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rajkumar Patil
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Balamurali K Ambati
- Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
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Structure of the Full-length VEGFR-1 Extracellular Domain in Complex with VEGF-A. Structure 2017; 25:341-352. [DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2016.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Constable IJ, Pierce CM, Lai CM, Magno AL, Degli-Esposti MA, French MA, McAllister IL, Butler S, Barone SB, Schwartz SD, Blumenkranz MS, Rakoczy EP. Phase 2a Randomized Clinical Trial: Safety and Post Hoc Analysis of Subretinal rAAV.sFLT-1 for Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration. EBioMedicine 2016; 14:168-175. [PMID: 27865764 PMCID: PMC5161436 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2016.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We present the results of a Phase 2a randomized controlled trial investigating the safety, and secondary endpoints of subretinal rAAV.sFLT-1 gene therapy in patients with active wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD). METHODS All patients (n=32), (ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT01494805), received ranibizumab injections at baseline and week 4, and thereafter according to prespecified criteria. Patients in the gene therapy group (n=21) received rAAV.sFLT-1 (1×1011vg). All patients were assessed every 4weeks to the week 52 primary endpoint. FINDINGS Ocular adverse events (AEs) in the rAAV.sFLT-1 group were mainly procedure related and self-resolved. All 11 phakic patients in the rAAV.sFLT-1 group showed progression of cataract following vitrectomy. No systemic safety signals were observed and none of the serious AEs were associated with rAAV.sFLT-1. AAV2 capsid was not detected and rAAV.sFLT-1 DNA was detected transiently in the tears of 13 patients. ELISPOT analysis did not identify any notable changes in T-cell response. In the rAAV.sFLT-1 group 12 patients had neutralizing antibodies (nAb) to AAV2. There was no change in sFLT-1 levels in bodily fluids. In the rAAV.sFLT-1 group, Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) improved by a median of 1.0 (IQR: -3.0 to 9.0) Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters from baseline compared to a median of -5.0 (IQR: -17.5 to 1.0) ETDRS letters change in the control group. Twelve (57%) patients in the rAAV.sFLT-1 group maintained or improved vision compared to 4 (36%) in the control group. The median number of ranibizumab retreatments was 2.0 (IQR: 1.0 to 6.0) for the gene therapy group compared to 4.0 (IQR: 3.5 to 4.0) for the control group. Interpretation rAAV.sFLT-1 combined with the option for co-treatment appears to be a safe and promising approach to the treatment of wAMD. FUNDING National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (AP1010405), Lions Eye Institute, Perth Australia, Avalanche Biotechnologies, Menlo Pk, CA, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian J Constable
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | | | - Chooi-May Lai
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | | | - Mariapia A Degli-Esposti
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Martyn A French
- School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia; Department of Clinical Immunology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Ian L McAllister
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Steve Butler
- Avalanche Biotechnologies, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Mark S Blumenkranz
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford Department of Ophthalmology, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth P Rakoczy
- Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, WA, Australia; Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.
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Lambert NG, ElShelmani H, Singh MK, Mansergh FC, Wride MA, Padilla M, Keegan D, Hogg RE, Ambati BK. Risk factors and biomarkers of age-related macular degeneration. Prog Retin Eye Res 2016; 54:64-102. [PMID: 27156982 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A biomarker can be a substance or structure measured in body parts, fluids or products that can affect or predict disease incidence. As age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world, much research and effort has been invested in the identification of different biomarkers to predict disease incidence, identify at risk individuals, elucidate causative pathophysiological etiologies, guide screening, monitoring and treatment parameters, and predict disease outcomes. To date, a host of genetic, environmental, proteomic, and cellular targets have been identified as both risk factors and potential biomarkers for AMD. Despite this, their use has been confined to research settings and has not yet crossed into the clinical arena. A greater understanding of these factors and their use as potential biomarkers for AMD can guide future research and clinical practice. This article will discuss known risk factors and novel, potential biomarkers of AMD in addition to their application in both academic and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan G Lambert
- Ambati Lab, John A. Moran Eye Center, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Hanan ElShelmani
- Ocular Development and Neurobiology Research Group, Zoology Department, School of Natural Sciences, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Malkit K Singh
- Ambati Lab, John A. Moran Eye Center, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Fiona C Mansergh
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Michael A Wride
- Ocular Development and Neurobiology Research Group, Zoology Department, School of Natural Sciences, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Maximilian Padilla
- Ambati Lab, John A. Moran Eye Center, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - David Keegan
- Mater Misericordia Hospital, Eccles St, Dublin 7, Ireland.
| | - Ruth E Hogg
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Institute of Clinical Science Block A, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, Co.Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - Balamurali K Ambati
- Ambati Lab, John A. Moran Eye Center, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Utah, 65 Mario Capecchi Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Sweigard JH, Matsumoto H, Smith KE, Kim LA, Paschalis EI, Okonuki Y, Castillejos A, Kataoka K, Hasegawa E, Yanai R, Husain D, Lambris JD, Vavvas D, Miller JW, Connor KM. Inhibition of the alternative complement pathway preserves photoreceptors after retinal injury. Sci Transl Med 2016. [PMID: 26203084 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aab1482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Degeneration of photoreceptors is a primary cause of vision loss worldwide, making the underlying mechanisms surrounding photoreceptor cell death critical to developing new treatment strategies. Retinal detachment, characterized by the separation of photoreceptors from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium, is a sight-threatening event that can happen in a number of retinal diseases. The detached photoreceptors undergo apoptosis and programmed necrosis. Given that photoreceptors are nondividing cells, their loss leads to irreversible visual impairment even after successful retinal reattachment surgery. To better understand the underlying disease mechanisms, we analyzed innate immune system regulators in the vitreous of human patients with retinal detachment and correlated the results with findings in a mouse model of retinal detachment. We identified the alternative complement pathway as promoting early photoreceptor cell death during retinal detachment. Photoreceptors down-regulate membrane-bound inhibitors of complement, allowing for selective targeting by the alternative complement pathway. When photoreceptors in the detached retina were removed from the primary source of oxygen and nutrients (choroidal vascular bed), the retina became hypoxic, leading to an up-regulation of complement factor B, a key mediator of the alternative pathway. Inhibition of the alternative complement pathway in knockout mice or through pharmacological means ameliorated photoreceptor cell death during retinal detachment. Our current study begins to outline the mechanism by which the alternative complement pathway facilitates photoreceptor cell death in the damaged retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Harry Sweigard
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Hidetaka Matsumoto
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kaylee E Smith
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Leo A Kim
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eleftherios I Paschalis
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yoko Okonuki
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alexandra Castillejos
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Keiko Kataoka
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eiichi Hasegawa
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ryoji Yanai
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Deeba Husain
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - John D Lambris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Demetrios Vavvas
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Joan W Miller
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kip M Connor
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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50
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Simmons AB, Merrill MM, Reed JC, Deans MR, Edwards MM, Fuerst PG. Defective Angiogenesis and Intraretinal Bleeding in Mouse Models With Disrupted Inner Retinal Lamination. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2016; 57:1563-77. [PMID: 27046121 PMCID: PMC4824390 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-18395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Abnormal retinal angiogenesis leads to visual impairment and blindness. Understanding how retinal vessels develop normally has dramatically improved treatments for people with retinal vasculopathies, but additional information about development is required. Abnormal neuron patterning in the outer retina has been shown to result in abnormal vessel development and blindness, for example, in people and mouse models with Crumbs homologue 1 (CRB1) mutations. In this study, we report and characterize a mouse model of inner retinal lamination disruption and bleeding, the Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam) mutant, and test how neuron-neurite placement within the inner retina guides development of intraretinal vessels. METHODS Bax mutant mice (increased neuron cell number), Dscam mutant mice (increased neuron cell number, disorganized lamination), Fat3 mutant mice (disorganized neuron lamination), and Dscam gain-of-function mice (Dscam(GOF)) (decreased neuron cell number) were used to manipulate neuron placement and number. Immunohistochemistry was used to assay organization of blood vessels, glia, and neurons. In situ hybridization was used to map the expression of angiogenic factors. RESULTS Significant changes in the organization of vessels within mutant retinas were found. Displaced neurons and microglia were associated with the attraction of vessels. Using Fat3 mutant and Dscam(GOF) retinas, we provide experimental evidence that vessel branching is induced at the neuron-neurite interface, but that other factors are required for full plexus layer formation. We further demonstrate that the displacement of neurons results in the mislocalization of angiogenic factors. CONCLUSIONS Inner retina neuron lamination is required for development of intraretinal vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron B. Simmons
- University of Idaho, Department of Biological Sciences, Moscow, Idaho, United States
| | - Morgan M. Merrill
- University of Idaho, Department of Biological Sciences, Moscow, Idaho, United States
| | - Justin C. Reed
- University of Washington School of Medicine, WWAMI Medical Education Program, Moscow, Idaho, United States
| | - Michael R. Deans
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Malia M. Edwards
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Peter G. Fuerst
- University of Idaho, Department of Biological Sciences, Moscow, Idaho, United States
- University of Washington School of Medicine, WWAMI Medical Education Program, Moscow, Idaho, United States
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