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Volatier T, Cursiefen C, Notara M. Current Advances in Corneal Stromal Stem Cell Biology and Therapeutic Applications. Cells 2024; 13:163. [PMID: 38247854 PMCID: PMC10814767 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal stromal stem cells (CSSCs) are of particular interest in regenerative ophthalmology, offering a new therapeutic target for corneal injuries and diseases. This review provides a comprehensive examination of CSSCs, exploring their anatomy, functions, and role in maintaining corneal integrity. Molecular markers, wound healing mechanisms, and potential therapeutic applications are discussed. Global corneal blindness, especially in more resource-limited regions, underscores the need for innovative solutions. Challenges posed by corneal defects, emphasizing the urgent need for advanced therapeutic interventions, are discussed. The review places a spotlight on exosome therapy as a potential therapy. CSSC-derived exosomes exhibit significant potential for modulating inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and addressing corneal transparency. Additionally, the rejuvenation potential of CSSCs through epigenetic reprogramming adds to the evolving regenerative landscape. The imperative for clinical trials and human studies to seamlessly integrate these strategies into practice is emphasized. This points towards a future where CSSC-based therapies, particularly leveraging exosomes, play a central role in diversifying ophthalmic regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Volatier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 26, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
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2
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Ilmarinen T, Vattulainen M, Kandhavelu J, Bremond-Gignac D, Aberdam D, Skottman H. Production and Limbal Lineage Commitment of Aniridia Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells 2023; 41:1133-1141. [PMID: 37632794 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Congenital aniridia is caused by heterozygous mutations on the PAX6 gene leading to reduced amount of PAX6 protein (haploinsufficiency), abnormal eye development, and aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK). This progressive corneal opacification resembles late-onset limbal stem cell (LSC) deficiency, leading to disrupted corneal epithelial renewal. The factors leading to AAK are not known and defects in native LSC differentiation and/or features leading to ocular surface dysfunction like inflammation and loss of innervation could contribute to development of AAK. Here, we produced induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) from 3 AAK patients and examined whether PAX6 haploinsufficiency affects LSC lineage commitment. During LSC differentiation, characterization of the AAK lines showed lowered PAX6 expression as compared to wild type (WT) controls and expression peak of PAX6 during early phase of differentiation was detected only in the WT hiPSC lines. Whether it reflects developmental regulation remains to be studied further. Nevertheless, the AAK-hiPSCs successfully differentiated toward LSC lineage, in line with the presence of LSCs in young patients before cell loss later in life. In addition, patient-specific LSCs showed similar wound healing capacity as WT cells. However, extensive batch-related variation in the LSC marker expression and wound healing efficacy was detected without clear correlation to AAK. As development and maintenance of corneal epithelium involves an interplay between LSCs and their environment, the AAK-hiPSCs generated here can be further used to study the crosstalk between LSCs and limbal niche including, eg, corneal immune cells, stroma cells, and neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Ilmarinen
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Meri Vattulainen
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jeyalakshmi Kandhavelu
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Dominique Bremond-Gignac
- Ophthalmology Department, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
- INSERM UMRS U1138, T17, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Centre des Cordeliers, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Aberdam
- INSERM UMRS U1138, T17, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Centre des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Heli Skottman
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Lee YF, Yong DWW, Manotosh R. A Review of Contact Lens-Induced Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:1490. [PMID: 38132316 PMCID: PMC10740976 DOI: 10.3390/biology12121490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a pathologic condition caused by the dysfunction and destruction of stem cells, stem cell precursors and limbal cell niche in the corneal epithelium, leading to severe conjunctivalization of the cornea. Etiologies for LSCD span from congenital (aniridia), traumatic (chemical or thermal injuries), autoimmune (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) and iatrogenic disease to contact lens (CL) wear. Of these, CL wear is the least understood and is often a subclinical cause of LSCD. Even with recent advances in LSCD research, limitations persist in establishing the pathogenesis and treatment guidelines for CL-induced LSCD. A literature search was conducted to include original articles containing patients with CL-induced LSCD. This review will critically discuss the complex pathophysiology behind CL-induced LSCD, the underlying risk factors and epidemiology of the disease as well as methods to obtain a diagnosis. Various treatment options will be reviewed based on proposed treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yhu Fhei Lee
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Dayna Wei Wei Yong
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Ray Manotosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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4
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Polisetti N, Martin G, Ulrich E, Glegola M, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Influence of Organ Culture on the Characteristics of the Human Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16856. [PMID: 38069177 PMCID: PMC10706739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ culture storage techniques for corneoscleral limbal (CSL) tissue have improved the quality of corneas for transplantation and allow for longer storage times. Cultured limbal tissue has been used for stem cell transplantation to treat limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) as well as for research purposes to assess homeostasis mechanisms in the limbal stem cell niche. However, the effects of organ culture storage conditions on the quality of limbal niche components are less well described. Therefore, in this study, the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of organ-cultured limbal tissue are investigated and compared to fresh limbal tissues by means of light and electron microscopy. Organ-cultured limbal tissues showed signs of deterioration, such as edema, less pronounced basement membranes, and loss of the most superficial layers of the epithelium. In comparison to the fresh limbal epithelium, organ-cultured limbal epithelium showed signs of ongoing proliferative activity (more Ki-67+ cells) and exhibited an altered limbal epithelial phenotype with a loss of N-cadherin and desmoglein expression as well as a lack of precise staining patterns for cytokeratin ((CK)14, CK17/19, CK15). The analyzed extracellular matrix composition was mainly intact (collagen IV, fibronectin, laminin chains) except for Tenascin-C, whose expression was increased in organ-cultured limbal tissue. Nonetheless, the expression patterns of cell-matrix adhesion proteins varied in organ-cultured limbal tissue compared to fresh limbal tissue. A decrease in the number of melanocytes (Melan-A+ cells) and Langerhans cells (HLA-DR+, CD1a+, CD18+) was observed in the organ-cultured limbal tissue. The organ culture-induced alterations of the limbal epithelial stem cell niche might hamper its use in the treatment of LSCD as well as in research studies. In contrast, reduced numbers of donor-derived Langerhans cells seem associated with better clinical outcomes. However, there is a need to consider the preferential use of fresh CSL for limbal transplants and to look at ways of improving the limbal stem cell properties of stored CSL tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eva Ulrich
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mateusz Glegola
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center—Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Jafar H, Ahmed K, Rayyan R, Sotari S, Buqain R, Ali D, Al Bdour M, Awidi A. Plasma-Treated Electrospun PLGA Nanofiber Scaffold Supports Limbal Stem Cells. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4244. [PMID: 37959924 PMCID: PMC10648479 DOI: 10.3390/polym15214244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelial layer is continuously replaced by limbal stem cells. Reconstructing this layer in vitro using synthetic scaffolds is highly needed. Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is approved for human use due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, PLGA is hydrophobic, preventing cell adherence to PLGA membranes. PLGA scaffolds were prepared by electrospinning on a custom-made target drum spinning at a rate of 1000 rpm with a flow rate of 0.5 mL/h and voltage at 20 kV, then treated with oxygen plasma at 30 mA using a vacuum coater. Scaffolds were characterized by SEM, mechanically by tensile testing, and thermally by DSC and TGA. In vitro degradation was measured by weight loss and pH drop. Wettability was assessed through water uptake and contact angles measurements. Human limbal stem cells (hLSCs) were isolated and seeded on the scaffolds. Cell attachment and cytotoxicity assay were evaluated on day 1 and 5 after cell seeding. SEM showed regular fiber morphology with diameters ranging between 150 nm and 950 nm. Tensile strength demonstrated similar average stress values for both plasma- and non-plasma-treated samples. Scaffolds also showed gradual degradability over a period of 7-8 weeks. Water contact angle and water absorption were significantly enhanced for plasma-treated scaffolds, indicating a favorable increase in their hydrophilicity. Scaffolds have also supported hLSCs growth and attachment with no signs of cytotoxicity. We have characterized a nanofiber electrospun plasma-treated PLGA scaffold to investigate the mechanical and biological properties and the ability to support the attachment and maintenance of hLSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Jafar
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (H.J.)
| | - Khalid Ahmed
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Rama Rayyan
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Shorouq Sotari
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (H.J.)
| | - Rula Buqain
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (H.J.)
| | - Dema Ali
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (H.J.)
| | - Muawyah Al Bdour
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Abdalla Awidi
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (H.J.)
- Thrombosis Homeostasis Laboratory, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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6
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Verma N, Khare D, Poe AJ, Amador C, Ghiam S, Fealy A, Ebrahimi S, Shadrokh O, Song XY, Santiskulvong C, Mastali M, Parker S, Stotland A, Van Eyk JE, Ljubimov AV, Saghizadeh M. MicroRNA and Protein Cargos of Human Limbal Epithelial Cell-Derived Exosomes and Their Regulatory Roles in Limbal Stromal Cells of Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Corneas. Cells 2023; 12:2524. [PMID: 37947602 PMCID: PMC10649916 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial and stromal/mesenchymal limbal stem cells contribute to corneal homeostasis and cell renewal. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes (Exos), can be paracrine mediators of intercellular communication. Previously, we described cargos and regulatory roles of limbal stromal cell (LSC)-derived Exos in non-diabetic (N) and diabetic (DM) limbal epithelial cells (LECs). Presently, we quantify the miRNA and proteome profiles of human LEC-derived Exos and their regulatory roles in N- and DM-LSC. We revealed some miRNA and protein differences in DM vs. N-LEC-derived Exos' cargos, including proteins involved in Exo biogenesis and packaging that may affect Exo production and ultimately cellular crosstalk and corneal function. Treatment by N-Exos, but not by DM-Exos, enhanced wound healing in cultured N-LSCs and increased proliferation rates in N and DM LSCs vs. corresponding untreated (control) cells. N-Exos-treated LSCs reduced the keratocyte markers ALDH3A1 and lumican and increased the MSC markers CD73, CD90, and CD105 vs. control LSCs. These being opposite to the changes quantified in wounded LSCs. Overall, N-LEC Exos have a more pronounced effect on LSC wound healing, proliferation, and stem cell marker expression than DM-LEC Exos. This suggests that regulatory miRNA and protein cargo differences in DM- vs. N-LEC-derived Exos could contribute to the disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagendra Verma
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Drirh Khare
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Division of Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation & Cellular Therapy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Adam J. Poe
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Cynthia Amador
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Sean Ghiam
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Andrew Fealy
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Shaghaiegh Ebrahimi
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Odelia Shadrokh
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Xue-Ying Song
- Genomics Core, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (X.-Y.S.); (C.S.)
| | - Chintda Santiskulvong
- Genomics Core, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (X.-Y.S.); (C.S.)
| | - Mitra Mastali
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (M.M.); (S.P.); (A.S.); (J.E.V.E.)
| | - Sarah Parker
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (M.M.); (S.P.); (A.S.); (J.E.V.E.)
| | - Aleksandr Stotland
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (M.M.); (S.P.); (A.S.); (J.E.V.E.)
| | - Jennifer E. Van Eyk
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, The Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (M.M.); (S.P.); (A.S.); (J.E.V.E.)
| | - Alexander V. Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, AHSP-A8104, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (N.V.); (D.K.); (C.A.); (A.F.); (S.E.); (O.S.); (A.V.L.)
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
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Gui Y, He Y, Wang D, Wang S, Zhang Y. Advances in cell transplantation therapy for limbal stem cell deficiency. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2023:CSCR-EPUB-133846. [PMID: 37605422 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230821102450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are essential for maintaining corneal transparency and ocular surface integrity. Many external factors or genetic diseases can lead to corneal limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), resulting in the loss of barrier and corneal epithelial cell renewal functions. Stem cell transplantation is one of the primary treatments for LSCD, including limbal transplantation and cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation. In addition, a variety of non-limbal stem cell lines have been experimented with for LSCD treatment. Biological scaffolds are also used to support in vitro stem cell culture and transplantation. Here, we review the mechanisms of corneal maintenance by LSCs, the clinical stage and surgical treatment of LSCD, the source of stem cells, and the biological scaffolds required for in vitro culture. METHODS This study is a narrative retrospective study aimed at collecting available information on various aspects of surgical treatments for LSCD. Relevant literature was searched in a range of online databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed from 2005 to March, 2023. RESULTS A total of 397 relevant articles were found, and 49 articles with strong relevance to the studies in this paper were obtained and analyzed. Moreover, 11 of these articles were on the concept of LSCD and the mechanism of LESCs maintaining the corneal epithelium, 3 articles on the staging and grading of LSCD, 17 articles on cell transplantation methods and donor cell sources, and 18 articles on scaffolds for delivering stem cells. We also summarized the advantages and disadvantages of different cell transplantation methods and the benefits and limitations of scaffolds based on the above literature. CONCLUSION The treatment of LSCD is determined by the clinical stage and whether it involves monocular or binocular eyes. Appropriate surgical techniques should be taken for LSCD patients in order to reconstruct the ocular surface, relieve symptoms, and restore visual function. Meanwhile, biological scaffolds assist in the ex vivo culture and implantation of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Gui
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuxi He
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shurong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Feinberg K, Tajdaran K, Mirmoeini K, Daeschler SC, Henriquez MA, Stevens KE, Mulenga CM, Hussain A, Hamrah P, Ali A, Gordon T, Borschel GH. The Role of Sensory Innervation in Homeostatic and Injury-Induced Corneal Epithelial Renewal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12615. [PMID: 37628793 PMCID: PMC10454376 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the window through which we see the world. Corneal clarity is required for vision, and blindness occurs when the cornea becomes opaque. The cornea is covered by unique transparent epithelial cells that serve as an outermost cellular barrier bordering between the cornea and the external environment. Corneal sensory nerves protect the cornea from injury by triggering tearing and blink reflexes, and are also thought to regulate corneal epithelial renewal via unknown mechanism(s). When protective corneal sensory innervation is absent due to infection, trauma, intracranial tumors, surgery, or congenital causes, permanent blindness results from repetitive epithelial microtraumas and failure to heal. The condition is termed neurotrophic keratopathy (NK), with an incidence of 5:10,000 people worldwide. In this report, we review the currently available therapeutic solutions for NK and discuss the progress in our understanding of how the sensory nerves induce corneal epithelial renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Feinberg
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Kiana Tajdaran
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Kaveh Mirmoeini
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Simeon C. Daeschler
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Burn Center, BG Trauma Hospital, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Heidelberg, 67071 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Mario A. Henriquez
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Katelyn E. Stevens
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Chilando M. Mulenga
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Arif Hussain
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Tufts Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
| | - Tessa Gordon
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Gregory H. Borschel
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Yu F, Gong D, Yan D, Wang H, Witman N, Lu Y, Fu W, Fu Y. Enhanced adipose-derived stem cells with IGF-1-modified mRNA promote wound healing following corneal injury. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2454-2471. [PMID: 37165618 PMCID: PMC10422019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea serves as an important barrier structure to the eyeball and is vulnerable to injuries, which may lead to scarring and blindness if not treated promptly. To explore an effective treatment that could achieve multi-dimensional repair of the injured cornea, the study herein innovatively combined modified mRNA (modRNA) technologies with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) therapy, and applied IGF-1 modRNA (modIGF1)-engineered ADSCs (ADSCmodIGF1) to alkali-burned corneas in mice. The therapeutic results showed that ADSCmodIGF1 treatment could achieve the most extensive recovery of corneal morphology and function when compared not only with simple ADSCs but also IGF-1 protein eyedrops, which was reflected by the healing of corneal epithelium and limbus, the inhibition of corneal stromal fibrosis, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, and also the repair of corneal nerves. In vitro experiments further proved that ADSCmodIGF1 could more significantly promote the activity of trigeminal ganglion cells and maintain the stemness of limbal stem cells than simple ADSCs, which were also essential for reconstructing corneal homeostasis. Through a combinatorial treatment regimen of cell-based therapy with mRNA technology, this study highlighted comprehensive repair in the damaged cornea and showed the outstanding application prospect in the treatment of corneal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Danni Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Dan Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Huijing Wang
- Institute of Pediatric Translational Medicine, Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Nevin Witman
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yang Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Wei Fu
- Institute of Pediatric Translational Medicine, Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Yao Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China.
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Arts JA, Laberthonnière C, Lima Cunha D, Zhou H. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing: Opportunities and Challenges for Studies on Corneal Biology in Health and Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1808. [PMID: 37443842 PMCID: PMC10340756 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The structure and major cell types of the multi-layer human cornea have been extensively studied. However, various cell states in specific cell types and key genes that define the cell states are not fully understood, hindering our comprehension of corneal homeostasis, related diseases, and therapeutic discovery. Single-cell RNA sequencing is a revolutionary and powerful tool for identifying cell states within tissues such as the cornea. This review provides an overview of current single-cell RNA sequencing studies on the human cornea, highlighting similarities and differences between them, and summarizing the key genes that define corneal cell states reported in these studies. In addition, this review discusses the opportunities and challenges of using single-cell RNA sequencing to study corneal biology in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian A. Arts
- Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.)
| | - Camille Laberthonnière
- Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.)
| | - Dulce Lima Cunha
- Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.)
| | - Huiqing Zhou
- Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Science, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.)
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Moshirfar M, Masud M, Harvey DH, Payne C, Bruce E, Ronquillo YC, Hoopes PC. The Multifold Etiologies of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: A Comprehensive Review on the Etiologies and Additional Treatment Options for Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4418. [PMID: 37445454 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the various ocular manifestations of limbal stem cell insufficiency, an awareness of the genetic, acquired, and immunological causes and associated additional treatments of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is essential for providers. We performed a comprehensive review of the literature on the various etiologies and specific therapies for LSCD. The resources utilized in this review included Medline (PubMed), Embase, and Google Scholar. All English-language articles and case reports published from November 1986 through to October 2022 were reviewed in this study. There were collectively 99 articles on these topics. No other exclusion criteria were applied. Depending on the etiology, ocular manifestations of limbal stem cell deficiency range from dry eye syndrome and redness to more severe outcomes, including corneal ulceration, ocular surface failure, and vision loss. Identifying the source of damage for LSCD is critical in the treatment process, given that therapy may extend beyond the scope of the standard protocol, including artificial tears, refractive surgery, and allogeneic stem cell transplants. This comprehensive review of the literature demonstrates the various genetic, acquired, and immunological causes of LSCD and the spectrum of supplemental therapies available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Moshirfar
- Hoopes Vision Research Center, Hoopes Vision, Draper, UT 84020, USA
- John A. Moran Eye Center, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
- Utah Lions Eye Bank, Murray, UT 84107, USA
| | - Maliha Masud
- School of Medicine, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Devon Hori Harvey
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Carter Payne
- Hoopes Vision Research Center, Hoopes Vision, Draper, UT 84020, USA
| | - Elayna Bruce
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Philip C Hoopes
- Hoopes Vision Research Center, Hoopes Vision, Draper, UT 84020, USA
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12
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Posarelli M, Romano D, Tucci D, Giannaccare G, Scorcia V, Taloni A, Pagano L, Borgia A. Ocular-Surface Regeneration Therapies for Eye Disorders: The State of the Art. BioTech (Basel) 2023; 12:48. [PMID: 37366796 DOI: 10.3390/biotech12020048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The ocular surface is a complex structure that includes cornea, conjunctiva, limbus, and tear film, and is critical for maintaining visual function. When the ocular-surface integrity is altered by a disease, conventional therapies usually rely on topical drops or tissue replacement with more invasive procedures, such as corneal transplants. However, in the last years, regeneration therapies have emerged as a promising approach to repair the damaged ocular surface by stimulating cell proliferation and restoring the eye homeostasis and function. This article reviews the different strategies employed in ocular-surface regeneration, including cell-based therapies, growth-factor-based therapies, and tissue-engineering approaches. Dry eye and neurotrophic keratopathy diseases can be treated with nerve-growth factors to stimulate the limbal stem-cell proliferation and the corneal nerve regeneration, whereas conjunctival autograft or amniotic membrane are used in subjects with corneal limbus dysfunction, such as limbal stem-cell deficiency or pterygium. Further, new therapies are available for patients with corneal endothelium diseases to promote the expansion and migration of cells without the need of corneal keratoplasty. Finally, gene therapy is a promising new frontier of regeneration medicine that can modify the gene expression and, potentially, restore the corneal transparency by reducing fibrosis and neovascularization, as well as by stimulating stem-cell proliferation and tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Posarelli
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Department of Corneal Diseases, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool L7 8YE, UK
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Davide Romano
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Eye Unit, University Hospitals of Leicester, NHS Trust, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - Davide Tucci
- Department of Biomedical and Surgical Sciences, Section of Ophthalmology, S. Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Scorcia
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Taloni
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Luca Pagano
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Department of Corneal Diseases, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool L7 8YE, UK
| | - Alfredo Borgia
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Department of Corneal Diseases, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool L7 8YE, UK
- Eye Unit, Humanitas-Gradenigo Hospital, 10153 Turin, Italy
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Polisetti N, Reinhard T, Schlunck G. Efficient Isolation and Expansion of Limbal Melanocytes for Tissue Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097827. [PMID: 37175529 PMCID: PMC10177947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal melanocytes (LMs) are found in the corneoscleral limbus basal epithelial layer and interact with neighboring limbal epithelial progenitor cells. The difficulty of isolating and cultivating LMs is due to the small fraction of LMs in the overall limbal population and the frequent contamination of primary cultures by other cell types. This has limited the research on freshly isolated LMs and the investigation of their biological significance in the maintenance of the limbal stem cell niche. Here, we describe an optimized protocol for the efficient isolation and expansion of LMs from cadaveric corneal limbal tissue using CD90 and CD117 as selective markers in fluorescence-activated cell sorting to obtain a pure population of LMs (CD90- CD117+) with self-renewal capacity and sustained melanin production. The isolation of pure LMs from a single preparation enables direct transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, as well as functional studies on freshly isolated LMs, which can be considered the proper counterparts of LMs in vivo and have potential applications in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Polisetti N, Martin G, Cristina Schmitz HR, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Characterization of Porcine Ocular Surface Epithelial Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087543. [PMID: 37108705 PMCID: PMC10145510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The porcine ocular surface is used as a model of the human ocular surface; however, a detailed characterization of the porcine ocular surface has not been documented. This is due, in part, to the scarcity of antibodies produced specifically against the porcine ocular surface cell types or structures. We performed a histological and immunohistochemical investigation on frozen and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded ocular surface tissue from domestic pigs using a panel of 41 different antibodies related to epithelial progenitor/differentiation phenotypes, extracellular matrix and associated molecules, and various niche cell types. Our observations suggested that the Bowman's layer is not evident in the cornea; the deep invaginations of the limbal epithelium in the limbal zone are analogous to the limbal interpalisade crypts of human limbal tissue; and the presence of goblet cells in the bulbar conjunctiva. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that the epithelial progenitor markers cytokeratin (CK)15, CK14, p63α, and P-cadherin were expressed in both the limbal and conjunctival basal epithelium, whereas the basal cells of the limbal and conjunctival epithelium did not stain for CK3, CK12, E-cadherin, and CK13. Antibodies detecting marker proteins related to the extracellular matrix (collagen IV, Tenascin-C), cell-matrix adhesion (β-dystroglycan, integrin α3 and α6), mesenchymal cells (vimentin, CD90, CD44), neurons (neurofilament), immune cells (HLA-ABC; HLA-DR, CD1, CD4, CD14), vasculature (von Willebrand factor), and melanocytes (SRY-homeobox-10, human melanoma black-45, Tyrosinase) on the normal human ocular surface demonstrated similar immunoreactivity on the normal porcine ocular surface. Only a few antibodies (directed against N-cadherin, fibronectin, agrin, laminin α3 and α5, melan-A) appeared unreactive on porcine tissues. Our findings characterize the main immunohistochemical properties of the porcine ocular surface and provide a morphological and immunohistochemical basis useful to research using porcine models. Furthermore, the analyzed porcine ocular structures are similar to those of humans, confirming the potential usefulness of pig eyes to study ocular surface physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Polisetti
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gottfried Martin
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Heidi R Cristina Schmitz
- CEMT-Freiburg, Experimental Surgery, Hospital-Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Str. 66, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ursula Schlötzer-Schrehardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Killianstrasse 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Volatier T, Schumacher B, Meshko B, Hadrian K, Cursiefen C, Notara M. Short-Term UVB Irradiation Leads to Persistent DNA Damage in Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells, Partially Reversed by DNA Repairing Enzymes. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:265. [PMID: 36829542 PMCID: PMC9953128 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The cornea is frequently exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and absorbs a portion of this radiation. UVB in particular is absorbed by the cornea and will principally damage the topmost layer of the cornea, the epithelium. Epidemiological research shows that the UV damage of DNA is a contributing factor to corneal diseases such as pterygium. There are two main DNA photolesions of UV: cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and pyrimidine-pyrimidone (6-4) photoproducts (6-4PPs). Both involve the abnormal linking of adjacent pyrimide bases. In particular, CPD lesions, which account for the vast majority of UV-induced lesions, are inefficiently repaired by nucleotide excision repair (NER) and are thus mutagenic and linked to cancer development in humans. Here, we apply two exogenous enzymes: CPD photolyase (CPDPL) and T4 endonuclease V (T4N5). The efficacy of these enzymes was assayed by the proteomic and immunofluorescence measurements of UVB-induced CPDs before and after treatment. The results showed that CPDs can be rapidly repaired by T4N5 in cell cultures. The usage of CPDPL and T4N5 in ex vivo eyes revealed that CPD lesions persist in the corneal limbus. The proteomic analysis of the T4N5-treated cells shows increases in the components of the angiogenic and inflammatory systems. We conclude that T4N5 and CPDPL show great promise in the treatment of CPD lesions, but the complete clearance of CPDs from the limbus remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Volatier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn Schumacher
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses, Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD) and Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 26, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Berbang Meshko
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Karina Hadrian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 21, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 21, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses, Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD) and Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 26, 50931 Cologne, Germany
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Polisetti N, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. PAX6 Expression Patterns in the Adult Human Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Cells 2023; 12. [PMID: 36766742 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Paired box 6 (PAX6), a nuclear transcription factor, determines the fate of limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) and maintains epithelial cell identity. However, the expression of PAX6 in limbal niche cells, primarily mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC), and melanocytes is scarce and not entirely clear. To distinctly assess the PAX6 expression in limbal niche cells, fresh and organ-cultured human corneoscleral tissues were stained immunohistochemically. Furthermore, the expression of PAX6 in cultured limbal cells was investigated. Immunostaining revealed the presence of PAX6-negative cells which were positive for vimentin and the melanocyte markers Melan-A and human melanoma black-45 in the basal layer of the limbal epithelium. PAX6 staining was not observed in the limbal stroma. Moreover, the expression of PAX6 was observed by Western blot in cultured LEPC but not in cultured LMSC or LM. These data indicate a restriction of PAX6 expression to limbal epithelial cells at the limbal stem cell niche. These observations warrant further studies for the presence of other PAX isoforms in the limbal stem cell niche.
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Kesper C, Heinzelmann J, Viestenz A, Hammer T, Foja S, Stein M, Viestenz A. Allogeneic Limbal Transplants Integrate into the Corneal Surface and Lead to an Improved Visual Acuity. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020645. [PMID: 36675574 PMCID: PMC9866826 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) severely impairs vision and can lead to blindness. LSCD causes include chemical burns, infections, multiple previous operations and congenital malformations. Allogeneic limbal transplantation is a procedure for treating LSCD where prepared limbal tissue is attached using a double running suture during allogeneic penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). A total of 22 patients underwent ALT surgery between February 2019 and June 2022 at the University Hospital Halle (Saale). Regular follow-up was performed postoperatively every three months and included visual acuity testing, pressure measurement, slit lamp microscopic examination, fundoscopy, corneal topography and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). The mean patient age was 69.5 years, and the mean follow-up was 19 months. All included patients had LSCD and multiple previous surgeries. Patient LSCD etiology was 59% infectious and 41% traumatic. ALTs integrated into corneal surfaces in all patients, demonstrated on AS-OCT. Since most patients initially received allogeneic limbal transplants, none of the operated eyes had surgical complications. Overall, visual acuity improved postoperatively from an initial 2.06 to 1.44 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR). Allogeneic limbal transplantation can be used to treat LSCD and its integration into the surrounding corneal tissue can be observed on AS-OCT.
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Soleimani M, Cheraqpour K, Koganti R, Baharnoori SM, Djalilian AR. Concise Review: Bioengineering of Limbal Stem Cell Niche. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10010111. [PMID: 36671683 PMCID: PMC9855097 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is composed of nonkeratinized stratified squamous cells and has a significant turnover rate. Limbal integrity is vital to maintain the clarity and avascularity of the cornea as well as regeneration of the corneal epithelium. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) are located in the basal epithelial layer of the limbus and preserve this homeostasis. Proper functioning of LESCs is dependent on a specific microenvironment, known as the limbal stem cell niche (LSCN). This structure is made up of various cells, an extracellular matrix (ECM), and signaling molecules. Different etiologies may damage the LSCN, leading to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), which is characterized by conjunctivalization of the cornea. In this review, we first summarize the basics of the LSCN and then focus on current and emerging bioengineering strategies for LSCN restoration to combat LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Soleimani
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1336616351, Iran
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Kasra Cheraqpour
- Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1336616351, Iran
| | - Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Seyed Mahbod Baharnoori
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ali R. Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence:
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Zamani M, Nejaddehbashi F, Bayati V, Nasrolahi A. Evaluation of effects of riboflavin and/or ultraviolet-A on survival of rat limbal epithelial stem cells in ex-vivo. Indian J Ophthalmol 2023; 71:75-79. [PMID: 36588212 PMCID: PMC10155564 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1003_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effects of riboflavin and/or ultraviolet-A (UV-A) irradiation on the cell viability of ex-vivo-cultured rat limbal stem cells (LSCs). Methods LSCs of male Wistar rats (N = 12 eyes) were cultured, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to evaluate them. After characterization, these cells were assigned to four groups of control (C), a group that was exposed to UV-A radiation (UV), a group that was treated with riboflavin (R), and a group that cotreated with both UV-A and riboflavin (UV+R). To determine the cell viability of LSCs, these cells were subjected to MTT assay on days 1, 3, and 7 after exposure to UV-A and/or riboflavin. The duration of exposure to UV-A and riboflavin was similar to levels used during the conventional corneal collagen cross-linking procedure. Results Compared with the viable cells in the control group, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.0001) in the number of LSCs in the UV group during all study days. In the R group, the level of viable LSCs was as same as the level of viable LSCs in the C group. Combined treatment with UV-A plus riboflavin significantly decreased the survival of LSCs on days 1 and 3 (P < 0.0001, P < 0.001, respectively) compared with the control group. Interestingly, in the UV+R group, the photosensitizing effect of riboflavin significantly decreased the cytotoxic effect of UV irradiation 7 days after exposure. Conclusion These results suggest that the administered UV energy in the presence or absence of riboflavin can damage LSCs. Likewise, riboflavin could decrease the toxic effect of UVA on LSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Zamani
- Infectious Ophthalmologic Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Nejaddehbashi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Vahid Bayati
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ava Nasrolahi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Polisetti N, Rapp J, Liang P, Dettmer-Monaco V, Bucher F, Pruszak J, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Cathomen T, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Transcriptomic Landscape and Functional Characterization of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Limbal Epithelial Progenitor Cells. Cells 2022; 11. [PMID: 36497012 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is a complex, multifactorial disease affecting limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC), which are essential for maintaining corneal stability and transparency. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (hiPSC-) LEPC are a promising cell source for the treatment of LSCD. However, their similarity to native tissue-derived (T-) LEPC and their functional characterization has not been studied in detail. Here, we show that hiPSC-LEPC and T-LEPC have rather similar gene expression patterns, colony-forming ability, wound-healing capacity, and melanosome uptake. In addition, hiPSC-LEPC exhibited lower immunogenicity and reduced the proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells compared with T-LEPC. Similarly, the hiPSC-LEPC secretome reduced the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells more than the T-LEPC secretome. Moreover, hiPSC-LEPC successfully repopulated decellularized human corneolimbal (DHC/L) scaffolds with multilayered epithelium, while basal deposition of fibrillary material was observed. These findings suggest that hiPSC-LEPC exhibited functional properties close to native LEPC and that hiPSC-LEPC-DHC/L scaffolds might be feasible for transplantation in patients suffering from LSCD in the future. Although hiPSC-LEPC-based stem cell therapy is promising, the current study also revealed new challenges, such as abnormal extracellular matrix deposition, that need to be overcome before hiPSC-LEPC-based stem cell therapies are viable.
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21
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Li J, Luanpitpong S, Kheolamai P. Editorial: Adult stem cells for regenerative medicine: From cell fate to clinical applications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1069665. [PMID: 36393835 PMCID: PMC9660257 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1069665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jingting Li
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Burns, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sudjit Luanpitpong
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pakpoom Kheolamai
- Center of Excellence in Stem Cell Research and Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand
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22
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Masood F, Chang JH, Akbar A, Song A, Hu WY, Azar DT, Rosenblatt MI. Therapeutic Strategies for Restoring Perturbed Corneal Epithelial Homeostasis in Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: Current Trends and Future Directions. Cells 2022; 11. [PMID: 36291115 DOI: 10.3390/cells11203247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells constitute an important cell population required for regeneration of the corneal epithelium. If insults to limbal stem cells or their niche are sufficiently severe, a disease known as limbal stem cell deficiency occurs. In the absence of functioning limbal stem cells, vision-compromising conjunctivalization of the corneal epithelium occurs, leading to opacification, inflammation, neovascularization, and chronic scarring. Limbal stem cell transplantation is the standard treatment for unilateral cases of limbal stem cell deficiency, but bilateral cases require allogeneic transplantation. Herein we review the current therapeutic utilization of limbal stem cells. We also describe several limbal stem cell markers that impact their phenotype and function and discuss the possibility of modulating limbal stem cells and other sources of stem cells to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic interventions. We finally consider several hurdles for widespread adoption of these proposed methodologies and discuss how they can be overcome to realize vision-restoring interventions.
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23
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Sasamoto Y, Lee CAA, Wilson BJ, Buerger F, Martin G, Mishra A, Kiritoshi S, Tran J, Gonzalez G, Hildebrandt F, Jo VY, Lian CG, Murphy GF, Ksander BR, Frank MH, Frank NY. Limbal BCAM expression identifies a proliferative progenitor population capable of holoclone formation and corneal differentiation. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111166. [PMID: 35947947 PMCID: PMC9480518 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium is renowned for high regenerative potential, which is dependent on the coordinated function of its diverse progenitor subpopulations. However, the molecular pathways governing corneal epithelial progenitor differentiation are incompletely understood. Here, we identify a highly proliferative limbal epithelial progenitor subpopulation characterized by expression of basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) that is capable of holocone formation and corneal epithelial sheet generation. BCAM-positive cells can be found among ABCB5-positive limbal stem cells (LSCs) as well as among ABCB5-negative limbal epithelial cell populations. Mechanistically, we show that BCAM is functionally required for cellular migration and differentiation and that its expression is regulated by the transcription factor p63. In aggregate, our study identifies limbal BCAM expression as a marker of highly proliferative corneal epithelial progenitor cells and defines the role of BCAM as a critical molecular mediator of corneal epithelial differentiation. Using scRNA sequencing of ABCB5-positive human limbal stem cells, Sasamoto et al. identify a BCAM-positive highly proliferative limbal epithelial progenitor subpopulation that is capable of holocone formation and corneal epithelial sheet generation. BCAM regulated by the stem cell transcription factor p63 is functionally required for corneal cell migration and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzuru Sasamoto
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine A A Lee
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian J Wilson
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Florian Buerger
- Department of Nephrology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabrielle Martin
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ananda Mishra
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shoko Kiritoshi
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Johnathan Tran
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriel Gonzalez
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Vickie Y Jo
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christine G Lian
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George F Murphy
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bruce R Ksander
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Markus H Frank
- Transplant Research Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Skin Disease Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Natasha Y Frank
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.
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24
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Polisetti N, Sharaf L, Martin G, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. P-Cadherin Is Expressed by Epithelial Progenitor Cells and Melanocytes in the Human Corneal Limbus. Cells 2022; 11:1975. [PMID: 35741104 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) and surrounding niche cells, which include limbal mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC) and melanocytes (LM), are essential for the maintenance of the limbal stem cell niche required for a transparent corneal surface. P-cadherin (P-cad) is a critical stem cell niche adhesion molecule at various epithelial stem cell niches; however, conflicting observations were reported on the presence of P-cad in the limbal region. To explore this issue, we assessed the location and phenotype of P-cad+ cells by confocal microscopy of human corneoscleral tissue. In subsequent fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) experiments, we used antibodies against P-cad along with CD90 and CD117 for the enrichment of LEPC, LMSC and LM, respectively. The sorted cells were characterized by immunophenotyping and the repopulation of decellularized limbal scaffolds was evaluated. Our findings demonstrate that P-cad is expressed by epithelial progenitor cells as well as melanocytes in the human limbal epithelial stem cell niche. The modified flow sorting addressing P-cad as well as CD90 and CD117 yielded enriched LEPC (CD90−CD117−P-cad+) and pure populations of LMSC (CD90+CD117−P-cad−) and LM (CD90−CD117+P-cad+). The enriched LEPC showed the expression of epithelial progenitor markers and better colony-forming ability than their P-cad− counterparts. The cultured LEPC and LM exhibited P-cad expression at intercellular junctions and successfully repopulated decellularized limbal scaffolds. These data suggest that P-cad is a critical cell–cell adhesion molecule, connecting LEPC and LM, which may play an important role in the long-term maintenance of LEPC at the limbal stem cell niche; moreover, these findings led to further improvement of cell enrichment protocols to enhance the yield of LEPC.
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25
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Li S, Zenkel M, Kruse FE, Gießl A, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U. Identification, Isolation, and Characterization of Melanocyte Precursor Cells in the Human Limbal Stroma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073756. [PMID: 35409129 PMCID: PMC8998324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Given their vital role in the homeostasis of the limbal stem cell niche, limbal melanocytes have emerged as promising candidates for tissue engineering applications. This study aimed to isolate and characterize a population of melanocyte precursors in the limbal stroma, compared with melanocytes originating from the limbal epithelium, using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) with positive (CD117/c-Kit microbeads) or negative (CD326/EpCAM or anti-fibroblast microbeads) selection approaches. Both approaches enabled fast and easy isolation and cultivation of pure limbal epithelial and stromal melanocyte populations, which differed in phenotype and gene expression, but exhibited similar functional properties regarding proliferative potential, pigmentation, and support of clonal growth of limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LEPCs). In both melanocyte populations, limbus-specific matrix (laminin 511-E8) and soluble factors (LEPC-derived conditioned medium) stimulated melanocyte adhesion, dendrite formation, melanogenesis, and expression of genes involved in UV protection and immune regulation. The findings provided not only a novel protocol for the enrichment of pure melanocyte populations from limbal tissue applying easy-to-use MACS technology, but also identified a population of stromal melanocyte precursors, which may serve as a reservoir for the replacement of damaged epithelial melanocytes and an alternative resource for tissue engineering applications.
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Polisetti N, Sharaf L, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. Efficient Isolation and Functional Characterization of Niche Cells from Human Corneal Limbus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2750. [PMID: 35269891 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fate decision of limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPC) at the human corneal limbus is determined by the surrounding microenvironment with limbal niche cells (LNC) as one of its essential components. Research on freshly isolated LNC which mainly include limbal mesenchymal stromal cells (LMSC) and limbal melanocytes (LM) has been hampered by a lack of efficient protocols to isolate and purify these cells. We devised a protocol for rapid retrieval of pure LMSC, LM and LEPC populations by collagenase digestion of limbal tissue and subsequent fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) using antibodies against CD90 and CD117. The sorted cells were characterized by immunophenotyping and functional assays. The effects of LMSC and LM on LEPC were studied in 3D co-cultures and LEPC differentiation status was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Enzymatic digestion and flow sorting yielded pure populations of LMSC (CD117−CD90+), LM (CD117+CD90−), and LEPC (CD117−CD90−). The LMSC exhibited self-renewal capacity (55.0 ± 4.6 population doublings), expressed mesenchymal stem cell markers (CD73, CD90, CD105, and CD44), and transdifferentiated to adipocytes, osteocytes, or chondrocytes. The LM exhibited self-renewal capacity and sustained melanin production. The sorted LEPC expressed epithelial progenitor markers (CK14, CK19, and CK15) and showed a colony-forming ability. Co-cultivation of LMSC and LM with LEPC resulted in a 4–5-layered stratified epithelium and supported the preservation of a LEPC phenotype, as reflected by increased p63+ and Ki67+ cells and decreased CK12+ cells compared with LEPC monocultures. A highly efficient isolation of pure LM, LMSC, and LEPC populations from a single preparation may allow for direct transcriptomic and proteomic profiling as well as functional studies on native unpassaged LNC, which can be considered as proper equivalents of LNC in vivo. The developed biomimetic 3D co-culture method could provide an experimental model for investigating the functional role of LNC in the limbal stem cell niche.
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Robertson SYT, Roberts JS, Deng SX. Regulation of Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells: Importance of the Niche. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11975. [PMID: 34769405 PMCID: PMC8584795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cells (LSCs) reside in a niche that contains finely tuned balances of various signaling pathways including Wnt, Notch, BMP, Shh, YAP, and TGFβ. The activation or inhibition of these pathways is frequently dependent on the interactions of LSCs with various niche cell types and extracellular substrates. In addition to receiving molecular signals from growth factors, cytokines, and other soluble molecules, LSCs also respond to their surrounding physical structure via mechanotransduction, interaction with the ECM, and interactions with other cell types. Damage to LSCs or their niche leads to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). The field of LSCD treatment would greatly benefit from an understanding of the molecular regulation of LSCs in vitro and in vivo. This review synthesizes current literature around the niche factors and signaling pathways that influence LSC function. Future development of LSCD therapies should consider all these niche factors to achieve improved long-term restoration of the LSC population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sophie X. Deng
- Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 94143, USA; (S.Y.T.R.); (J.S.R.)
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28
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Polisetti N, Roschinski B, Schlötzer-Schrehardt U, Maier P, Schlunck G, Reinhard T. A Decellularized Human Limbal Scaffold for Limbal Stem Cell Niche Reconstruction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10067. [PMID: 34576227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The transplantation of ex vivo expanded limbal epithelial progenitor cells (LEPCs) on amniotic membrane or fibrin gel is an established therapeutic strategy to regenerate the damaged corneal surface in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), but the long-term success rate is restricted. A scaffold with niche-specific structure and extracellular matrix (ECM) composition might have the advantage to improve long-term clinical outcomes, in particular for patients with severe damage or complete loss of the limbal niche tissue structure. Therefore, we evaluated the decellularized human limbus (DHL) as a biomimetic scaffold for the transplantation of LEPCs. Corneoscleral tissue was decellularized by sodium deoxycholate and deoxyribonuclease I in the presence or absence of dextran. We evaluated the efficiency of decellularization and its effects on the ultrastructure and ECM composition of the human corneal limbus. The recellularization of these scaffolds was studied by plating cultured LEPCs and limbal melanocytes (LMs) or by allowing cells to migrate from the host tissue following a lamellar transplantation ex vivo. Our decellularization protocol rapidly and effectively removed cellular and nuclear material while preserving the native ECM composition. In vitro recellularization by LEPCs and LMs demonstrated the good biocompatibility of the DHL and intrastromal invasion of LEPCs. Ex vivo transplantation of DHL revealed complete epithelialization as well as melanocytic and stromal repopulation from the host tissue. Thus, the generated DHL scaffold could be a promising biological material as a carrier for the transplantation of LEPCs to treat LSCD.
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29
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Khorolskaya JI, Perepletchikova DA, Kachkin DV, Zhurenkov KE, Alexander-Sinkler EI, Ivanova JS, Mikhailova NA, Blinova MI. Derivation and Characterization of EGFP-Labeled Rabbit Limbal Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Potential for Research in Regenerative Ophthalmology. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1134. [PMID: 34572321 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cell-based approaches to the treatment of various cornea pathologies, including limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), is an area of current interest in regenerative biomedicine. In this context, the shortage of donor material is urgent, and limbal mesenchymal stem cells (L-MSCs) may become a promising cell source for the development of these novel approaches, being established mainly within the rabbit model. In this study, we obtained and characterized rabbit L-MSCs and modified them with lentiviral transduction to express the green fluorescent protein EGFP (L-MSCs-EGFP). L-MSCs and L-MSCs-EGFP express not only stem cell markers specific for mesenchymal stem cells but also ABCG2, ABCB5, ALDH3A1, PAX6, and p63a specific for limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs), as well as various cytokeratins (3/12, 15, 19). L-MSCs-EGFP have been proven to differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic directions, as well as to transdifferentiate into epithelial cells. The possibility of using L-MSCs-EGFP to study the biocompatibility of various scaffolds developed to treat corneal pathologies was demonstrated. L-MSCs-EGFP may become a useful tool for studying regenerative processes occurring during the treatment of various corneal pathologies, including LSCD, with the use of cell-based technologies.
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Altshuler A, Amitai-Lange A, Tarazi N, Dey S, Strinkovsky L, Hadad-Porat S, Bhattacharya S, Nasser W, Imeri J, Ben-David G, Abboud-Jarrous G, Tiosano B, Berkowitz E, Karin N, Savir Y, Shalom-Feuerstein R. Discrete limbal epithelial stem cell populations mediate corneal homeostasis and wound healing. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1248-1261.e8. [PMID: 33984282 PMCID: PMC8254798 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The accessibility and transparency of the cornea permit robust stem cell labeling and in vivo cell fate mapping. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LSCs) that renew the cornea are traditionally viewed as rare, slow-cycling cells that follow deterministic rules dictating their self-renewal or differentiation. Here, we combined single-cell RNA sequencing and advanced quantitative lineage tracing for in-depth analysis of the murine limbal epithelium. These analysis revealed the co-existence of two LSC populations localized in separate and well-defined sub-compartments, termed the "outer" and "inner" limbus. The primitive population of quiescent outer LSCs participates in wound healing and boundary formation, and these cells are regulated by T cells, which serve as a niche. In contrast, the inner peri-corneal limbus hosts active LSCs that maintain corneal epithelial homeostasis. Quantitative analyses suggest that LSC populations are abundant, following stochastic rules and neutral drift dynamics. Together these results demonstrate that discrete LSC populations mediate corneal homeostasis and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Altshuler
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Aya Amitai-Lange
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Noam Tarazi
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sunanda Dey
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Lior Strinkovsky
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shira Hadad-Porat
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Swarnabh Bhattacharya
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Waseem Nasser
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jusuf Imeri
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gil Ben-David
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ghada Abboud-Jarrous
- Department of Immunology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Beatrice Tiosano
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Eran Berkowitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Nathan Karin
- Department of Immunology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yonatan Savir
- Department of Physiology, Biophysics & Systems Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Ruby Shalom-Feuerstein
- Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine & Research Institute, Technion Integrated Cancer Center, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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31
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Singh A, Sangwan VS. Mini-Review: Regenerating the Corneal Epithelium With Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:673330. [PMID: 34124103 PMCID: PMC8195332 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.673330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) is an ingenious, low cost and effective technique of limbal stem cell transplantation (LSCT) that is increasingly being undertaken in practice across the world. Since it was first described a decade ago, the technique has been performed in a variety of cases of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and has underwent several innovative modifications. Published literature on SLET has progressively increased over time and successful outcomes in various clinical scenarios have been reported. This concise review attempts to present a crisp account of SLET covering the indications and contraindications of performing the procedure; detailed account of pre-operative work up and preparation; surgical technique and its modifications; post-operative course, care and possible complications as well as published outcomes of surgery from across the world. Comparative analysis of various techniques of LSCT have been discussed and common concerns of surgeons practising or those who are planning to start practising SLET have been addressed. The authors hope that the pragmatic insights and pearls given at the end of the review will aid the surgeons in performing this technique to provide maximum benefit to patients suffering from the potentially blinding condition of LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aastha Singh
- Department of Cornea, Anterior Segment and Uveitis, Dr. Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Virender S Sangwan
- Department of Cornea, Anterior Segment and Uveitis, Dr. Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, India
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32
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Nieto-Nicolau N, Martínez-Conesa EM, Fuentes-Julián S, Arnalich-Montiel F, García-Tuñón I, De Miguel MP, Casaroli-Marano RP. Priming human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells for corneal surface regeneration. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:5124-5137. [PMID: 33951289 PMCID: PMC8178265 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cells (LSC) maintain the transparency of the corneal epithelium. Chemical burns lead the loss of LSC inducing an up-regulation of pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic factors, triggering corneal neovascularization and blindness. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSC) have shown promise in animal models to treat LSC deficiency (LSCD), but there are not studies showing their efficacy when primed with different media before transplantation. We cultured AT-MSC with standard medium and media used to culture LSC for clinical application. We demonstrated that different media changed the AT-MSC paracrine secretion showing different paracrine effector functions in an in vivo model of chemical burn and in response to a novel in vitro model of corneal inflammation by alkali induction. Treatment of LSCD with AT-MSC changed the angiogenic and inflammatory cytokine profile of mice corneas. AT-MSC cultured with the medium that improved their cytokine secretion, enhanced the anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory profile of the treated corneas. Those corneas also presented better outcome in terms of corneal transparency, neovascularization and histologic reconstruction. Priming human AT-MSC with LSC specific medium can potentiate their ability to improve corneal wound healing, decrease neovascularization and inflammation modulating paracrine effector functions in an in vivo optimized rat model of LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria Nieto-Nicolau
- CellTec-UB, Department of Cell Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Barcelona Tissue Bank (BTB), Banc de Sang I Teixits (BST), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Biomedical Research IIB-Sant Pau (SGR1113), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva M Martínez-Conesa
- Barcelona Tissue Bank (BTB), Banc de Sang I Teixits (BST), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Biomedical Research IIB-Sant Pau (SGR1113), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Ignacio García-Tuñón
- Cell Engineering Laboratory, La Paz Hospital Research Institute (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - María P De Miguel
- Cell Engineering Laboratory, La Paz Hospital Research Institute (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo P Casaroli-Marano
- CellTec-UB, Department of Cell Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Barcelona Tissue Bank (BTB), Banc de Sang I Teixits (BST), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Biomedical Research IIB-Sant Pau (SGR1113), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Surgery & Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Guérin LP, Le-Bel G, Desjardins P, Couture C, Gillard E, Boisselier É, Bazin R, Germain L, Guérin SL. The Human Tissue-Engineered Cornea (hTEC): Recent Progress. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031291. [PMID: 33525484 PMCID: PMC7865732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Each day, about 2000 U.S. workers have a job-related eye injury requiring medical treatment. Corneal diseases are the fifth cause of blindness worldwide. Most of these diseases can be cured using one form or another of corneal transplantation, which is the most successful transplantation in humans. In 2012, it was estimated that 12.7 million people were waiting for a corneal transplantation worldwide. Unfortunately, only 1 in 70 patients received a corneal graft that same year. In order to provide alternatives to the shortage of graftable corneas, considerable progress has been achieved in the development of living corneal substitutes produced by tissue engineering and designed to mimic their in vivo counterpart in terms of cell phenotype and tissue architecture. Most of these substitutes use synthetic biomaterials combined with immortalized cells, which makes them dissimilar from the native cornea. However, studies have emerged that describe the production of tridimensional (3D) tissue-engineered corneas using untransformed human corneal epithelial cells grown on a totally natural stroma synthesized by living corneal fibroblasts, that also show appropriate histology and expression of both extracellular matrix (ECM) components and integrins. This review highlights contributions from laboratories working on the production of human tissue-engineered corneas (hTECs) as future substitutes for grafting purposes. It overviews alternative models to the grafting of cadaveric corneas where cell organization is provided by the substrate, and then focuses on their 3D counterparts that are closer to the native human corneal architecture because of their tissue development and cell arrangement properties. These completely biological hTECs are therefore very promising as models that may help understand many aspects of the molecular and cellular mechanistic response of the cornea toward different types of diseases or wounds, as well as assist in the development of novel drugs that might be promising for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis-Philippe Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Gaëtan Le-Bel
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Pascale Desjardins
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Camille Couture
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Elodie Gillard
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Élodie Boisselier
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Richard Bazin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lucie Germain
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Sylvain L. Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-418-682-7565
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Poe AJ, Kulkarni M, Leszczynska A, Tang J, Shah R, Jami-Alahmadi Y, Wang J, Kramerov AA, Wohlschlegel J, Punj V, Ljubimov AV, Saghizadeh M. Integrated Transcriptome and Proteome Analyses Reveal the Regulatory Role of miR-146a in Human Limbal Epithelium via Notch Signaling. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102175. [PMID: 32993109 PMCID: PMC7650592 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MiR-146a is upregulated in the stem cell-enriched limbal region vs. central human cornea and can mediate corneal epithelial wound healing. The aim of this study was to identify miR-146a targets in human primary limbal epithelial cells (LECs) using genomic and proteomic analyses. RNA-seq combined with quantitative proteomics based on multiplexed isobaric tandem mass tag labeling was performed in LECs transfected with miR-146a mimic vs. mimic control. Western blot and immunostaining were used to confirm the expression of some targeted genes/proteins. A total of 251 differentially expressed mRNAs and 163 proteins were identified. We found that miR-146a regulates the expression of multiple genes in different pathways, such as the Notch system. In LECs and organ-cultured corneas, miR-146a increased Notch-1 expression possibly by downregulating its inhibitor Numb, but decreased Notch-2. Integrated transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed the regulatory role of miR-146a in several other processes, including anchoring junctions, TNF-α, Hedgehog signaling, adherens junctions, TGF-β, mTORC2, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling, which mediate wound healing, inflammation, and stem cell maintenance and differentiation. Our results provide insights into the regulatory network of miR-146a and its role in fine-tuning of Notch-1 and Notch-2 expressions in limbal epithelium, which could be a balancing factor in stem cell maintenance and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. Poe
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Mangesh Kulkarni
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Aleksandra Leszczynska
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Jie Tang
- Genomics Core, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA;
| | - Ruchi Shah
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Yasaman Jami-Alahmadi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.J.-A.); (J.W.)
| | - Jason Wang
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Andrei A. Kramerov
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - James Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.J.-A.); (J.W.)
| | - Vasu Punj
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
| | - Alexander V. Ljubimov
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (A.J.P.); (M.K.); (A.L.); (R.S.); (J.W.); (A.A.K.); (A.V.L.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-310-248-8696
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González S, Halabi M, Ju D, Tsai M, Deng SX. Role of Jagged1-mediated Notch Signaling Activation in the Differentiation and Stratification of the Human Limbal Epithelium. Cells 2020; 9:cells9091945. [PMID: 32842657 PMCID: PMC7564045 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway plays a key role in proliferation and differentiation. We investigated the effect of Jagged 1 (Jag1)-mediated Notch signaling activation in the human limbal stem/progenitor cell (LSC) population and the stratification of the limbal epithelium in vitro. After Notch signaling activation, there was a reduction in the amount of the stem/progenitor cell population, epithelial stratification, and expression of proliferation markers. There was also an increase of the corneal epithelial differentiation. In the presence of Jag1, asymmetric divisions were decreased, and the expression pattern of the polarity protein Par3, normally present at the apical-lateral membrane of basal cells, was dispersed in the cells. We propose a mechanism in which Notch activation by Jag1 decreases p63 expression at the basal layer, which in turn reduces stratification by decreasing the number of asymmetric divisions and increases differentiation.
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Kulikov AN, Chernysh VF, Churashov SV. [On the new classification of eye burns]. Vestn Oftalmol 2020; 136:134-142. [PMID: 32366081 DOI: 10.17116/oftalma2020136021134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The currently used classification of eye burns was proposed in 1973 by N.A. Puchkovskaya and V.M. Nepomnyashaya. Recent emergence of the concept of limbal stem cells of the corneal epithelium and its application in clinical practice has significantly expanded the possibilities for diagnosis, treatment, and visual rehabilitation of patients with eye burns. In 1997, Dr. Michael Wagoner proposed a classification of eye burns in which the grade of burn severity is determined by the degree of damage to the limbal stem cells. Considering this approach, the authors conducted a comparative analysis of the classifications of eye burns used in Russia (in different years) and those that have appeared in the Western countries in recent years. In this regard, a new classification of eye burns is being proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Kulikov
- S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - V F Chernysh
- S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - S V Churashov
- S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
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37
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Nieto-Nicolau N, Martín-Antonio B, Müller-Sánchez C, Casaroli-Marano RP. In vitro potential of human mesenchymal stem cells for corneal epithelial regeneration. Regen Med 2020; 15:1409-1426. [PMID: 32352350 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2019-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To determine the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for corneal epithelial regeneration in vitro. Materials & methods: Bone marrow MSC (BM-MSC) and adipose tissue MSC were analyzed for corneal epithelial and mesenchymal markers, using limbal stem cells and corneal cells as controls. MSC with better potential were cultured with specific mediums for epithelial induction. Transepithelial electric resistance and wound healing assay with human corneal epithelial cells were performed. Results: BM-MSC showed better potential, increased corneal markers, and higher transepithelial electric resistance values when induced with limbal epithelial culture medium. Induced BM-MSC promoted better wound healing of human corneal epithelial cells by paracrine secretion. Conclusion: BM-MSC has potential for corneal epithelial induction in a protocol compatible with human application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ricardo P Casaroli-Marano
- Barcelona Tissue Bank, Banc de Sang I Teixits (BST), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Surgery, School of Medicine & Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Biomedical Research Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
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Prina E, Amer MH, Sidney L, Tromayer M, Moore J, Liska R, Bertolin M, Ferrari S, Hopkinson A, Dua H, Yang J, Wildman R, Rose FRAJ. Bioinspired Precision Engineering of Three-Dimensional Epithelial Stem Cell Microniches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 4:e2000016. [PMID: 32329968 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Maintenance of the epithelium relies on stem cells residing within specialized microenvironments, known as epithelial crypts. Two-photon polymerization (2PP) is a valuable tool for fabricating 3D micro/nanostructures for stem cell niche engineering applications. Herein, biomimetic gelatin methacrylate-based constructs, replicating the precise geometry of the limbal epithelial crypt structures (limbal stem cell "microniches") as an exemplar epithelial niche, are fabricated using 2PP. Human limbal epithelial stem cells (hLESCs) are seeded within the microniches in xeno-free conditions to investigate their ability to repopulate the crypts and the expression of various differentiation markers. Cell proliferation and a zonation in cell phenotype along the z-axis are observed without the use of exogenous signaling molecules. Significant differences in cell phenotype between cells located at the base of the microniche and those situated towards the rim are observed, demonstrating that stem cell fate is strongly influenced by its location within a niche and the geometrical details of where it resides. This study provides insight into the influence of the niche's spatial geometry on hLESCs and demonstrates a flexible approach for the fabrication of biomimetic crypt-like structures in epithelial tissues. This has significant implications for regenerative medicine applications and can ultimately lead to implantable synthetic "niche-based" treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Prina
- Division of Regenerative Medicine and Cellular Therapies, School of Pharmacy, Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Mahetab H Amer
- Division of Regenerative Medicine and Cellular Therapies, School of Pharmacy, Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Laura Sidney
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Maximilian Tromayer
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163, Vienna, 1060, Austria
| | - Jonathan Moore
- School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Robert Liska
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163, Vienna, 1060, Austria
| | - Marina Bertolin
- Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus, Padiglione Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, Zelarino-Venezia, 30174, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus, Padiglione Rama, Via Paccagnella 11, Zelarino-Venezia, 30174, Italy
| | - Andrew Hopkinson
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Harminder Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Jing Yang
- Division of Regenerative Medicine and Cellular Therapies, School of Pharmacy, Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ricky Wildman
- Institute of Advanced Manufacturing, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Felicity R A J Rose
- Division of Regenerative Medicine and Cellular Therapies, School of Pharmacy, Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
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Bonzano C, Canciani B, Olivari S, Papadia M, Bagnis A, Cutolo CA, Bonzano E, Pagani P, Cancedda R, Traverso CE. CFSE: A New Method for Identifying Human Limbal Stem Cells and Following Their Migration in Human Cornea. In Vivo 2020; 33:1851-1855. [PMID: 31662512 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
AIM To develop a method capable of identifying human corneal limbal stem cells (LSCs) and follow their proliferation and migration in the epithelium. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten fresh matched pairs of cadaveric normal human corneas were obtained from donors. Carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) was used to target LSCs. The distribution of CFSE-positive cell clusters was analyzed by fluorescence microscopy by counterstaining with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Fluorescence was digitally recorded for seven days, and the rate of cell movement was determined. RESULTS CFSE-labeled cells were tracked in corneas. Analysis of time sequences revealed that they moved centripetally. Daily average CFSE-labeled LSC movement was 0.073±0.01 cm (±SD). CONCLUSION CFSE allowed us to identify LSCs and to track their centripetal migration from the limbal basal layer to the anterior ocular surface. This experimental system appears to be a valuable tool for further studies on corneal epithelial cell migration and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bonzano
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Barbara Canciani
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Oncology, Biology and Genetics, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Olivari
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Bagnis
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Alberto Cutolo
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bonzano
- School of Experimental Medicine, University of Pavia and Department of Radiation Oncology, IRCCS San Matteo Polyclinic Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Pagani
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ranieri Cancedda
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Oncology, Biology and Genetics, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Enrico Traverso
- Eye Clinic, DiNOGMI, University of Genoa and IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
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40
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Shanbhag SS, Patel CN, Goyal R, Donthineni PR, Singh V, Basu S. Simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET): Review of indications, surgical technique, mechanism, outcomes, limitations, and impact. Indian J Ophthalmol 2019; 67:1265-1277. [PMID: 31332106 PMCID: PMC6677059 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_117_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) is an innovative limbal stem cell transplantation technique that has gained increasing popularity over the last few years. Different groups from across the world have published the clinical results of SLET in large case series with varying types and severities of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). This review attempts to place all the available knowledge on SLET together in one place for the benefit of not only cornea specialists and trainees but also for residents and general ophthalmologists. It follows a balanced approach of blending evidence with experience by providing an objective analysis of published results along with helpful insights from subject experts, starting from preoperative considerations including the role of newer imaging modalities to the technical aspects of the surgery itself and the management of possible complications. Original data and novel insights on allogeneic SLET for bilateral LSCD are included in the review to address the few remaining lacunae in the existing literature on this topic. This review intends to inform, educate, and empower all aspiring and practicing SLET surgeons to optimize their clinical outcomes and to have maximal positive impact on the lives of the individuals affected by unilateral or bilateral chronic LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ritin Goyal
- Tej Kohli Cornea Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | | | - Vivek Singh
- Center for Ocular Regeneration (CORE), L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- Tej Kohli Cornea Institute; Center for Ocular Regeneration (CORE), L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Song L, Song Z, Fry NJ, Conatser L, Llanga T, Mei H, Kafri T, Hirsch ML. Gene Delivery to Human Limbal Stem Cells Using Viral Vectors. Hum Gene Ther 2019; 30:1336-1348. [PMID: 31392914 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2019.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Limbal stem cell (LSC) transplantation is a promising treatment for ocular surface diseases especially LSC deficiency. Genetic engineering represents an attractive strategy to increase the potential for success in LSC transplantations either by correcting autologous diseased LSCs or by decreasing the immunogenicity of allogeneic LSCs. Therefore, two popular viral vectors, adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector and lentiviral (LV) vector, were compared for gene delivery in human LSCs. Transduction efficiency was evaluated by flow cytometry, quantitation of viral genomes, and fluorescence microscopy after introducing eight self-complementary AAV serotypes or LV carrying a green fluorescent protein (GFP) cassette to fresh limbal epithelial cells, cultivated LSC colonies, or after corneal intrastromal injection into human explant tissue. For fresh limbal epithelial cells, AAV6 showed the highest transduction efficiency, followed by LV and AAV4 at 24 h after vector incubation, which did not directly correlate with internalized genome copy number. The colony formation efficiency, as well as colony size over time, showed no significant differences among AAV serotypes, LV, and nontreated controls. The percentage of GFP+ colonies at 14 days post-seeding was significantly higher in the LV group, which plateaued at 50% GFP+ upon serial passages. Interestingly, AAV6-treated colonies initially showed a variegated transduction phenotype with no GFP+ colonies in serial passages. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and AAV6 capsid staining revealed that transduction was restricted to differentiated cells of LSC colonies at a post-entry step. Following central intrastromal injection of human corneas, both LV and AAV6 transduced the stroma and endothelial cells, and AAV6 also transduced cells of the epithelia. However, no transduction was observed in derived LSC colonies. The collective results demonstrate the effectiveness of LV for stable human LSC genetic engineering and an unreported phenomenon of AAV6 transduction restriction in multipotent cells derived from the human limbus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liujiang Song
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Zhenwei Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Nathaniel J Fry
- Department of Microbiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Laura Conatser
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Telmo Llanga
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hua Mei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Tal Kafri
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Microbiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Matthew L Hirsch
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Tomasello L, Coppola A, Pitrone M, Failla V, Cillino S, Pizzolanti G, Giordano C. PFN1 and integrin-β1/mTOR axis involvement in cornea differentiation of fibroblast limbal stem cells. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:7210-7221. [PMID: 31513338 PMCID: PMC6815913 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo limbal stem cell transplantation is the main therapeutic approach to address a complete and functional re-epithelialization in corneal blindness, the second most common eye disorder. Although important key points were defined, the molecular mechanisms involved in the epithelial phenotype determination are unclear. Our previous studies have demonstrated the pluripotency and immune-modulatory of fibroblast limbal stem cells (f-LSCs), isolated from the corneal limbus. We defined a proteomic profile especially enriched in wound healing and cytoskeleton-remodelling proteins, including Profilin-1 (PFN1). In this study we postulate that pfn-1 knock down promotes epithelial lineage by inhibiting the integrin-β1(CD29)/mTOR pathway and subsequent NANOG down-expression. We showed that it is possible modulate pfn1 expression levels by treating f-LSCs with Resveratrol (RSV), a natural compound: pfn1 decline is accompanied with up-regulation of the specific differentiation epithelial genes pax6 (paired-box 6), sox17 (sex determining region Y-box 17) and ΔNp63-α (p63 splice variant), consistent with drop-down of the principle stem gene levels. These results contribute to understand the molecular biology of corneal epithelium development and suggest that pfn1 is a potential molecular target for the treatment of corneal blindness based on epithelial cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tomasello
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine "Aldo Galluzzo", Section of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonina Coppola
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine "Aldo Galluzzo", Section of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Pitrone
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine "Aldo Galluzzo", Section of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Valentina Failla
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Pizzolanti
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine "Aldo Galluzzo", Section of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine "Aldo Galluzzo", Section of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Promozione della Salute, Materno-Infantile, di Medicina Interna e Specialistica di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Le Q, Chauhan T, Deng SX. Diagnostic criteria for limbal stem cell deficiency before surgical intervention-A systematic literature review and analysis. Surv Ophthalmol 2019; 65:32-40. [PMID: 31276736 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
An accurate diagnosis of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) is the premise of an appropriate treatment; however, there is no consensus about the diagnostic criteria for LSCD. We performed a systematic literature search of the peer-reviewed articles on PubMed, Medline, and Ovid to investigate how LSCD was diagnosed before surgical intervention. The methods used to diagnose LSCD included clinical presentation, impression cytology, and in vivo confocal microscopy. Among 131 eligible studies (4054 eyes), 26 studies (459 eyes, 11.3%) did not mention the diagnostic criteria. In the remaining 105 studies, the diagnosis of LSCD was made on the basis of clinical examination alone in 2398 eyes (62.9%), and additional diagnostic tests were used in 1047 (25.8%) eyes. Impression cytology was used in 981 eyes (24.2%), in vivo confocal microscopy was used in 29 eyes (0.7%), and both impression cytology and in vivo confocal microscopy were used in 37 eyes (0.9%). Our findings suggest that only a small portion of patients underwent a diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis of LSCD. Treating physicians should be aware of the limitations of clinical examination in diagnosing LSCD and perform a diagnostic test whenever possible before surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Le
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California; Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tulika Chauhan
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California.
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Fan NW, Ho TC, Wu CW, Tsao YP. Pigment epithelium-derived factor peptide promotes limbal stem cell proliferation through hedgehog pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:4759-4769. [PMID: 31066230 PMCID: PMC6584522 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Expansion of limbal epithelial stem cells (LSCs) is crucial for the success of limbal transplantation. Previous studies showed that pigment epithelium‐derived peptide (PEDF) short peptide 44‐mer could effectively expand LSCs and maintain them in a stem‐cell state, but the mechanism remained unclear. In the current study, we found that pharmacological inhibition of Sonic Hedgehog (SHh) activity reduced the LSC holoclone number and suppressed LSC proliferation in response to 44‐mer. In mice subjected to focal limbal injury, 44‐mer facilitated the restoration of the LSC population in damaged limbus, and such effect was impeded by the SHh or ATGL (a PEDF receptor) inhibitor. Furthermore, we showed that 44‐mer increased nuclear translocation of Gli1 and Gli3 in LSCs. Knockdown of Gli1 or Gli3 suppressed the ability of 44‐mer to induce cyclin D1 expression and LSC proliferation. In addition, ATGL inhibitor suppressed the 44‐mer‐induced phosphorylation of STAT3 at Tyr705 in LSC. Both inhibitors for ATGL and STAT3 attenuated 44‐mer‐induced SHh activation and LSC proliferation. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that SHh‐Gli pathway driven by ATGL/STAT3 signalling accounts for the 44‐mer‐mediated LSC proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Wen Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Chuan Ho
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Wen Wu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yeou-Ping Tsao
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Deng SX, Borderie V, Chan CC, Dana R, Figueiredo FC, Gomes JAP, Pellegrini G, Shimmura S, Kruse FE. Global Consensus on Definition, Classification, Diagnosis, and Staging of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency. Cornea 2019; 38:364-375. [PMID: 30614902 PMCID: PMC6363877 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000001820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite extensive knowledge gained over the last 3 decades regarding limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), the disease is not clearly defined, and there is lack of agreement on the diagnostic criteria, staging, and classification system among treating physicians and research scientists working on this field. There is therefore an unmet need to obtain global consensus on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. METHODS A Limbal Stem Cell Working Group was first established by The Cornea Society in 2012. The Working Group was divided into subcommittees. Four face-to-face meetings, frequent email discussions, and teleconferences were conducted since then to obtain agreement on a strategic plan and methodology from all participants after a comprehensive literature search, and final agreement was reached on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. A writing group was formed to draft the current manuscript, which has been extensively revised to reflect the consensus of the Working Group. RESULTS A consensus was reached on the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. The clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria of LSCD were clarified, and a staging system of LSCD based on clinical presentation was established. CONCLUSIONS This global consensus provides a comprehensive framework for the definition, classification, diagnosis, and staging of LSCD. The newly established criteria will aid in the correct diagnosis and formulation of an appropriate treatment for different stages of LSCD, which will facilitate a better understanding of the condition and help with clinical management, research, and clinical trials in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie X. Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Vincent Borderie
- Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Clara C. Chan
- University of Toronto Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences Toronto, Ontario
| | - Reza Dana
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School
| | - Francisco C. Figueiredo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - José A. P. Gomes
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Escola Paulista de Medicina/Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), Brazil
| | - Graziella Pellegrini
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia; Holostem Terapie Avanzate, Modena, Italy
| | - Shigeto Shimmura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Friedrich E. Kruse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany
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Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the outcome of limbal transplantation in eyes with bilateral severe ocular surface damage secondary to chemical injury. Patients and methods This was a retrospective case series that included 20 patients who had undergone living related limbal transplantation due to the presence of bilateral severe stem cell deficiency resulting from chemical injury. Medical records of the selected patients were reviewed. The following data were recorded and analyzed: gender; age at the time of the surgery; duration of follow-up; corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA); symptoms; intraocular pressure (IOP); any complications; postoperative treatment; and other surgical procedures needed. Results The mean age of the included patients was 27.4±9.3 years. The causative agent was an alkali in 14 patients. Fifteen patients (75%) had a stable ocular surface (ie, complete corneal re-epithelization and resolution of postoperative inflammation) after the first limbal transplantation, while the other five patients (25%) needed regrafting. As regards the IOP; five patients (25%) needed Ahmed's valve implantation to control the IOP. Other surgical procedures needed were penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in three patients (15%), cataract surgery in six patients (30%), and lid surgery in one patient (5%). Conclusion In conclusion, living related conjunctival limbal allograft transplantation, especially when combined with amniotic membrane transplantation, yielded good results in the management of cases with bilateral severe chemical eye injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El-Hofi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt,
| | - Hany Ahmed Helaly
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt,
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Xu W, Liu K, Li T, Zhang W, Dong Y, Lv J, Wang W, Sun J, Li M, Wang M, Zhao Z, Liang Y. An in situ hydrogel based on carboxymethyl chitosan and sodium alginate dialdehyde for corneal wound healing after alkali burn. J Biomed Mater Res A 2018; 107:742-754. [PMID: 30548137 PMCID: PMC6590378 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
There is currently no optimal scaffold for the transplantation of limbal stem cells (LSCs) to induce corneal reconstruction after corneal alkali burns. This study attempts to fabricate a novel in situ Alginate‐Chitosan hydrogel (ACH) for LSCs transplantation. Sodium alginate dialdehyde (SAD), a biological crosslinker, was prepared by periodate‐mediated sodium alginate oxidization. Carboxymethyl chitosan was rapidly crosslinked with SAD via Schiff's base formation between the available aldehyde and amino groups. The ACH is rapidly formed on the wound surface by self‐crosslinking without adding any chemical crosslinking component. Gelation time, transmittance, microscopic structure, equilibrium swelling, cytotoxicity, histocompatibility and degradability of the hydrogel were all examined. Rabbit primary LSCs were encapsulated in the hydrogel and transplanted to alkali burn wounds in vivo. Cornea reconstruction was evaluated by visual observation, slit lamp, histological analysis, and immunofluorescence staining. Results showed that the in situ hydrogel was highly transparent, gelated quickly, biocompatible, and had low cytotoxicity. LSCs cultured in vitro expressed the stem marker p63 but lacked the differentiated epithelial markers cytokeratin 3 and 12. Furthermore, the hydrogel encapsulating LSCs could be formed quickly on the alkali burn wound of the cornea and was shown to significantly improve epithelial reconstruction. Taken together, treatment with this novel in situ hydrogel‐mediated LSC transplantation system may serve as a rapid and effective method for corneal wound healing. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 742–754, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Xu
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Kaibin Liu
- The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China.,Key Laboratory, Department of Urology and Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Wenhua Zhang
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yanhan Dong
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jiayi Lv
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Wenli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Seaweed Substances, Qingdao Bright Moon Group Co Ltd, Qingdao, 266555, China
| | - Jingguo Sun
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Mengjie Li
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Zihong Zhao
- Department of Inspection, The medical faculty of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Ye Liang
- Key Laboratory, Department of Urology and Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
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Le Q, Cordova D, Xu J, Deng SX. In Vivo Evaluation of the Limbus Using Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2018; 7:12. [PMID: 30112250 PMCID: PMC6082326 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.7.4.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purposes To investigate the limbal structure using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and compare the difference between a Chinese Han population and a Caucasian population. Methods Sixty healthy Chinese Han subjects (109 eyes, Chinese group) and 32 healthy Caucasian subjects (51 eyes, Caucasian group) were included in this comparative cross-sectional study. The central cornea and the superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal limbal regions of each subject underwent Fourier-domain AS-OCT. The following parameters were measured: corneal epithelial thickness (CET), maximum limbal epithelial thickness (LET), the mean LET, the width of limbus, distance between scleral spur and the location where limbal epithelium was the thickest (S-T), and limbal epithelial area between scleral spur and the end of Bowman's layer (LEA). Results CET was similar in both groups (P = 0.577). The width of limbus was more than 32.8% greater in all limbal quadrants in the Caucasian group (range, 1.25–2.20 mm) than in the Chinese group (range, 0.81–1.40 mm). S-T and LEA were also significantly higher in all limbal quadrants in the Caucasian group (all P < 0.001). The maximum LET and mean LET were 7.8% and 6.9% thicker at the nasal limbus and 8.1% and 8.7% thicker in the temporal limbus in Caucasian subjects than in Chinese subjects. Conclusions The limbal structures can be visualized using AS-OCT and differ significantly between the Caucasian and Chinese eyes. Translational Relevance Research of the limbus and surgeons performing procedures involving the limbal area should take into consideration of the anatomic differences especially when limbus is used as an anatomic reference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Le
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daniel Cordova
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianjiang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sophie X Deng
- Stein Eye Institute, Cornea Division, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Shirzadeh E, Heidari Keshel S, Ezzatizadeh V, Jabbehdari S, Baradaran-Rafii A. Unrestricted somatic stem cells, as a novel feeder layer: Ex vivo culture of human limbal stem cells. J Cell Biochem 2017; 119:2666-2678. [PMID: 29087592 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo culture of limbal stem cells (LSCs) is a current promising approach for reconstruction of the ocular surface. In this context, 3T3 feeder layer cells (mouse embryo fibroblast) are generally utilized to maintain and expand LSCs. The aim of this study is to develop a novel culture method (animal-derived products free) to expand LSCs, using umbilical cord derived human unrestricted somatic stem cells (hUSSCs) instead of 3T3 cell with an emphasis on maintaining of the Stemness in LSCs. Using flow-cytometer, isolated hUSSCs were characterized for CD105, CD90, CD166, CD34, CD45, CD31 cell surface markers and their differentiation capability into adipogenic as well as osteogenic lineages were evaluated. In addition to colony-forming efficiency (CFE), epithelial lineage differentiation and karyotyping, LSC properties were evaluated for ABCG2, ΔNP63-α, CK19, CK3, and CK12 mRNA and protein expressions using quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunocytochemistry, when these cells were co-cultured with hUSSCs (in comparison with 3T3 feeder layer). LSCs, co-cultured with hUSSCs, showed normal karyotype (46, XX), while they could efficiently form colony (86 ± 3) and display up-regulation of the genes associated with stemness and down-regulation of corneal epithelial differentiation genes. Consistent with 3T3 feeder cells, hUSSCs with spindle-shaped morphology and quick splitting up properties had ability to preserve the stem like-cell phenotype of LSCs. These findings were confirmed by qRT-PCR and flow-cytometer. Findings of present study suggest hUSSCs as a promising alternative method for 3T3 feeder layer cells, to preserve growth and stemness of LSCs ex vivo culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Shirzadeh
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Saeed Heidari Keshel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Ezzatizadeh
- Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology at Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Medical Genetics Department, Royesh Medical Laboratory Centre, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayena Jabbehdari
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Baradaran-Rafii
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
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50
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Abstract
To investigate the roles of ΔNp63α during corneal wound healing and the genes regulated by ΔNp63α in limbal epithelial cells. Adenovirus or shRNA targeting ΔNp63α were pre-injected into the anterior chamber of rat eyeballs and the central corneal epithelium was then wounded with NaOH. The effects of ΔNp63α expression during wound healing were observed by propidium iodide staining. In addition, limbal epithelial cells were cultured and ectopically expressed ΔNp63α by transfecting Ad-ΔNp63α. Total RNA was extracted from transfected epithelial cells and subjected to a gene expression microarray assay. The results showed that over-expression of ΔNp63α accelerated the process of corneal wound healing while knockdown of ΔNp63α impaired the process. ΔNp63α positively up-regulated several cell growth promoter genes and could be referred as a positive regulator of limbal epithelial cell proliferation. It might also inhibit cell differentiation and cell death by differential target gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeng-Yuan Yao
- a Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Science , Xiamen Medical College , Fujian , China.,b Department of Physiology, College of Medicine , Chang Gung University , Taoyuan , Taiwan
| | - Jan-Kan Chen
- b Department of Physiology, College of Medicine , Chang Gung University , Taoyuan , Taiwan
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