1
|
Bannier-Hélaouët M, Korving J, Ma Z, Begthel H, Giladi A, Lamers MM, van de Wetering WJ, Yawata N, Yawata M, LaPointe VLS, Dickman MM, Kalmann R, Imhoff SM, van Es JH, López-Iglesias C, Peters PJ, Haagmans BL, Wu W, Clevers H. Human conjunctiva organoids to study ocular surface homeostasis and disease. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:227-243.e12. [PMID: 38215738 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The conjunctival epithelium covering the eye contains two main cell types: mucus-producing goblet cells and water-secreting keratinocytes, which present mucins on their apical surface. Here, we describe long-term expanding organoids and air-liquid interface representing mouse and human conjunctiva. A single-cell RNA expression atlas of primary and cultured human conjunctiva reveals that keratinocytes express multiple antimicrobial peptides and identifies conjunctival tuft cells. IL-4/-13 exposure increases goblet and tuft cell differentiation and drastically modifies the conjunctiva secretome. Human NGFR+ basal cells are identified as bipotent conjunctiva stem cells. Conjunctival cultures can be infected by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1), human adenovirus 8 (hAdV8), and SARS-CoV-2. HSV1 infection was reversed by acyclovir addition, whereas hAdV8 infection, which lacks an approved drug therapy, was inhibited by cidofovir. We document transcriptional programs induced by HSV1 and hAdV8. Finally, conjunctival organoids can be transplanted. Together, human conjunctiva organoid cultures enable the study of conjunctival (patho)-physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Bannier-Hélaouët
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeroen Korving
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ziliang Ma
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), and Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Harry Begthel
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Amir Giladi
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mart M Lamers
- Viroscience Department, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Willine J van de Wetering
- Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nobuyo Yawata
- Department of Ocular Pathology and Imaging Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Makoto Yawata
- Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore; Immunology Program, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; NUSMED Immunology Translational Research Program, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), Singapore, Singapore; International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mor M Dickman
- Department of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, the Netherlands; University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rachel Kalmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia M Imhoff
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johan H van Es
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Carmen López-Iglesias
- Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J Peters
- Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart L Haagmans
- Viroscience Department, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wei Wu
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), and Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Argüeso P. Human ocular mucins: The endowed guardians of sight. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114074. [PMID: 34875287 PMCID: PMC8724396 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mucins are an ancient group of glycoproteins that provide viscoelastic, lubricating and hydration properties to fluids bathing wet surfaced epithelia. They are involved in the protection of underlying tissues by forming a barrier with selective permeability properties. The expression, processing and spatial distribution of mucins are often determined by organ-specific requirements that in the eye involve protecting against environmental insult while allowing the passage of light. The human ocular surface epithelia have evolved to produce an extremely thin and watery tear film containing a distinct soluble mucin product secreted by goblet cells outside the visual axis. The adaptation to the ocular environment is notably evidenced by the significant contribution of transmembrane mucins to the tear film, where they can occupy up to one-quarter of its total thickness. This article reviews the tissue-specific properties of human ocular mucins, methods of isolation and detection, and current approaches to model mucin systems recapitulating the human ocular surface mucosa. This knowledge forms the fundamental basis to develop applications with a promising biological and clinical impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Argüeso
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Diebold Y, García-Posadas L. Is the Conjunctiva a Potential Target for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products? Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081140. [PMID: 34452098 PMCID: PMC8402183 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The conjunctiva is a complex ocular tissue that provides mechanical, sensory, and immune protection for the ocular surface. It is affected by many diseases through different pathological mechanisms. If a disease is not treated and conjunctival function is not fully restored, the whole ocular surface and, therefore, sight is at risk. Different therapeutic approaches have been proposed, but there are still unsolved conjunctival alterations that require more sophisticated therapeutic options. Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) comprise a wide range of products that includes cell therapy, tissue engineering, and gene therapy. To the best of our knowledge, there is no commercialized ATMP specifically for conjunctival treatment yet. However, the conjunctiva can be a potential target for ATMPs for different reasons. In this review, we provide an overview of the advances in experimental phases of potential ATMPs that primarily target the conjunctiva. Important advances have been achieved through the techniques of cell therapy and tissue engineering, whereas the use of gene therapy in the conjunctiva is still marginal. Undoubtedly, future research in this field will lead to achieving commercially available ATMPs for the conjunctiva, which may provide better treatments for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Diebold
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura García-Posadas
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
García-Posadas L, Diebold Y. Three-Dimensional Human Cell Culture Models to Study the Pathophysiology of the Anterior Eye. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1215. [PMID: 33333869 PMCID: PMC7765302 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the establishment of complex three-dimensional (3D) models of tissues has allowed researchers to perform high-quality studies and to not only advance knowledge of the physiology of these tissues but also mimic pathological conditions to test novel therapeutic strategies. The main advantage of 3D models is that they recapitulate the spatial architecture of tissues and thereby provide more physiologically relevant information. The eye is an extremely complex organ that comprises a large variety of highly heterogeneous tissues that are divided into two asymmetrical portions: the anterior and posterior segments. The anterior segment consists of the cornea, conjunctiva, iris, ciliary body, sclera, aqueous humor, and the lens. Different diseases in these tissues can have devastating effects. To study these pathologies and develop new treatments, the use of cell culture models is instrumental, and the better the model, the more relevant the results. Thus, the development of sophisticated 3D models of ocular tissues is a significant challenge with enormous potential. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in the development of 3D in vitro models of the anterior segment of the eye, with a special focus on those that use human primary cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura García-Posadas
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Yolanda Diebold
- Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Latta L, Viestenz A, Stachon T, Colanesi S, Szentmáry N, Seitz B, Käsmann-Kellner B. Human aniridia limbal epithelial cells lack expression of keratins K3 and K12. Exp Eye Res 2017; 167:100-109. [PMID: 29162348 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Aniridia is a rare disease of the eye that affects the iris, lens and the cornea. In about 90% of the cases, patients showed a loss of PAX6 function. Patients with aniridia often develop aniridia-related keratopathy (ARK), due to limbal stem cell insufficiency. The aim of this study was to determine the differentiation status of limbal epithelial cells (LECs) in patients with ARK. Epithelial cells were isolated from the limbus region of two patients with aniridia and cultured in KSFM medium supplemented with EGF and BPE. Normal cells were obtained from limbus region of cadaveric control patients. Cells were analyzed with RT-PCR, qPCR and Western blot to evaluate expression of the developmental transcription factor, PAX6, potential stem cell markers, ΔNp63α and ABCG2, and corneal differentiation markers, keratin 12 (K12) and K3. Conjunctival differentiation markers, keratin 13 (K13) and K19 were also investigated. Cells were immunostained to evaluate K3, PAX6, and p63α protein expression. Protein coding sequence of PAX6 from patient LEC-cDNA was cloned and sequenced. RT-PCR showed that K3 and K12 transcripts were absent from patient cells, but present in healthy control preparations. Transcription levels of PAX6, ABCG2, and p63α of aniridia patients show no differences compared to normal control cells. Western blot showed reduced PAX6, protein levels in aniridia-LECs compared to control-LECs. Immunostaining also showed reduced PAX6 and K3 expression in aniridia-LECs compared to control-LECs. One aniridia patient showed a loss of stop codon in half of the cloned transcripts. In the second aniridia patient mRNA degradation through nonsense mediated decay seems to be very likely since we could not identify the mutation c.174C > T (Refseq. NM_000280), or misspliced transcripts in cDNA. We identified decreased PAX6 protein levels in aniridia patients in addition to decreased K12 mRNA levels compared to control cells. This result indicates an altered differentiation of limbal epithelial cells of aniridia patients. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the mechanism of differentiation of limbal epithelial cells in aniridia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Latta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - Arne Viestenz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Tanja Stachon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Sarah Colanesi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Nóra Szentmáry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
He M, Storr-Paulsen T, Wang AL, Ghezzi CE, Wang S, Fullana M, Karamichos D, Utheim TP, Islam R, Griffith M, Islam MM, Hodges RR, Wnek GE, Kaplan DL, Dartt DA. Artificial Polymeric Scaffolds as Extracellular Matrix Substitutes for Autologous Conjunctival Goblet Cell Expansion. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:6134-6146. [PMID: 27832279 PMCID: PMC5104422 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We fabricated and investigated polymeric scaffolds that can substitute for the conjunctival extracellular matrix to provide a substrate for autologous expansion of human conjunctival goblet cells in culture. Methods We fabricated two hydrogels and two silk films: (1) recombinant human collagen (RHC) hydrogel, (2) recombinant human collagen 2-methacryloylxyethyl phosphorylcholine (RHC-MPC) hydrogel, (3) arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) modified silk, and (4) poly-D-lysine (PDL) coated silk, and four electrospun scaffolds: (1) collagen, (2) poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), (3) poly(caprolactone) (PCL), and (4) poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Coverslips and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were used for comparison. Human conjunctival explants were cultured on scaffolds for 9 to 15 days. Cell viability, outgrowth area, and the percentage of cells expressing markers for stratified squamous epithelial cells (cytokeratin 4) and goblet cells (cytokeratin 7) were determined. Results Most of cells grown on all scaffolds were viable except for PCL in which only 3.6 ± 2.2% of the cells were viable. No cells attached to PVA scaffold. The outgrowth was greatest on PDL-silk and PET. Outgrowth was smallest on PCL. All cells were CK7-positive on RHC-MPC while 84.7 ± 6.9% of cells expressed CK7 on PDL-silk. For PCL, 87.10 ± 3.17% of cells were CK7-positive compared to PET where 67.10 ± 12.08% of cells were CK7-positive cells. Conclusions Biopolymer substrates in the form of hydrogels and silk films provided for better adherence, proliferation, and differentiation than the electrospun scaffolds and could be used for conjunctival goblet cell expansion for eventual transplantation once undifferentiated and stratified squamous cells are included. Useful polymer scaffold design characteristics have emerged from this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min He
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States 2Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Thomas Storr-Paulsen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States 3Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital NBG, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Annie L Wang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Chiara E Ghezzi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Siran Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Matthew Fullana
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States 7Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
| | - Tor P Utheim
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States 8Department of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Norway 9Department of Ophthalmology, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway 10Faculty of Health Sciences, National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, University College of Southeast Norway, Norway
| | - Rakibul Islam
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States 8Department of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - May Griffith
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden 12Swedish Medical Nanoscience Center, Department of Neurosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Mirazul Islam
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden 12Swedish Medical Nanoscience Center, Department of Neurosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robin R Hodges
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Gary E Wnek
- Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Darlene A Dartt
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xie C, Li XY, Cui HG. Potential candidate cells for constructing tissue-engineered lacrimal duct epithelium: a histological and cytological study in rabbits. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2015; 16:904-13. [PMID: 26537208 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1500113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Injury and deficiency of the lacrimal duct epithelium (LDE) can lead to a variety of lacrimal diseases. The purpose of this study was to characterize potential candidate cells for constructing a tissue-engineered LDE. METHODS Different areas of the conjunctiva and lacrimal duct tissue were removed from male adult New Zealand white rabbits for histological evaluation. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining of cytokeratin AE1+AE3, cytokeratin 4, Ki-67, and MUC5AC were observed by light microscopy. The surface morphologies of different epithelial tissues and cellular structures were examined using field-emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Epithelial cells were isolated from tissues and identified by specific markers. In vitro, proliferative ability and Western blot analyses of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) of different epithelial cells cultured in identical environments were investigated and compared. RESULTS Histologically, the epithelial specific markers, cytokeratin AE1+AE3 and cytokeratin 4, were expressed in the conjunctiva epithelium and the LDE. Notably, highly proliferative cells stained with Ki-67 were concentrated under the epithelium in a dome structure of the posterior palpebral conjunctiva. Differentiated goblet cells were also found to a lesser extent in this region. Primary palpebral and fornical conjunctival epithelial cells (PFCECs), bulbar conjunctival epithelial cells (BCECs), and lacrimal duct epithelial cells (LDECs) were successfully separated from tissues. In vitro, rabbit PFCECs and LDECs grew faster and expressed more PCNA than BCECs. CONCLUSIONS PFCECs are anatomically similar to LDECs. They also have similar morphological characteristics, immune phenotypes, and proliferation features. PFCECs are therefore potential candidate cells to replace LDECs in tissue engineering to treat lacrimal duct diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xiu-yi Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Hong-guang Cui
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
An Update on Ocular Surface Epithelial Stem Cells: Cornea and Conjunctiva. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:601731. [PMID: 26146504 PMCID: PMC4471309 DOI: 10.1155/2015/601731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ocular surface (front surface of the eye) is formed by two different types of epithelia: the corneal epithelium centrally and the conjunctival epithelium that surrounds this. These two epithelia are maintained by different stem cell populations (limbal stem cells for the corneal epithelium and the conjunctival epithelial stem cells). In this review, we provide an update on our understanding of these epithelia and their stem cells systems, including embryology, new markers, and controversy around the location of these stem cells. We also provide an update on the translation of this understanding into clinical applications for the treatment of debilitating ocular surface diseases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Silber PC, Ricardo JRS, Cristovam PC, Hazarbassanov RM, Dreyfuss JL, Gomes JAP. Conjunctival epithelial cells cultivated ex vivo from patients with total limbal stem cell deficiency. Eur J Ophthalmol 2014; 25:0. [PMID: 25384970 DOI: 10.5301/ejo.5000511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Reconstruction of the ocular surface is challenging. As an alternative to mucosal and limbal epithelial, we study the feasibility of cultivated human conjunctival epithelial (HCjE) cells of patients with total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). METHODS We studied superior forniceal conjunctival biopsies harvested from 9 living donors with total LSCD of several etiologies who underwent surgery for ocular surface reconstruction. The conjunctival explants were cultivated on serum and growth factor supplemented DMEM/F12 under submerged conditions on denuded human amniotic membrane and tissue culture dishes. The area of cell growth was assessed. Cell morphology was analyzed by light microscopy, impression cytology, and transmission electron microscopy. Cultures were evaluated for epithelial cytokeratins (CK3, CK19), proliferation marker (Ki-67), and putative stem cells markers (ABCG2 and p63). Confocal immunofluorescence was also performed to assess CK3, CK19, Ki-67, ABCG2, and p63. RESULTS The HCjE cells cultivated ex vivo were successfully expanded on denuded amniotic membrane but with a slower growth than in the tissue culture dish. Transmission electron microscopy showed stratified epithelium with microvilli, desmosomes, and hemidesmosomes. Impression cytology showed PAS+ cells that resembled goblet cells. Immunocytochemical analysis showed positivity for CK3, CK19, Ki-67, ABCG2, and p63. Confocal immunofluorescence was positive for CK3, CK19, Ki-67, ABCG2, and p63. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that it is possible to cultivate HCjE cells ex vivo of patients with ocular surface diseases. This method is important for ocular surface reconstruction in patients with bilateral total LSCD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo C Silber
- Cornea and External Disease Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo - Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rivas L, Blázquez A, Muñoz-Negrete FJ, López S, Rebolleda G, Domínguez F, Pérez-Esteban A. [Characterization of epithelial primary culture from human conjunctiva]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 89:10-6. [PMID: 24269413 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftal.2013.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate primary cultures from human conjunctiva supplemented with fetal bovine serum, autologous serum, and platelet-rich autologous serum, over human amniotic membrane and lens anterior capsules. METHODS One-hundred and forty-eight human conjunctiva explants were cultured in CnT50(®) supplemented with 1, 2.5, 5 and 10% fetal bovine serum, autologous serum and platelet-rich autologous serum. Conjunctival samples were incubated at 37°C, 5% CO2 and 95% HR, for 3 weeks. RESULTS The typical phenotype corresponding to conjunctival epithelial cells was present in all primary cultures. Conjunctival cultures had MUC5AC-positive secretory cells, K19-positive conjunctival cells, and MUC4-positive non-secretory conjunctival cells, but were not corneal phenotype (cytokeratin K3-negative) and fibroblasts (CD90-negative). CONCLUSIONS Conjunctiva epithelial progenitor cells were preserved in all cultures; thus, a cell culture in CnT50(®) supplemented with 1 to 5% autologous serum over human amniotic membrane can provide better information of epithelial cell differentiation for the conjunctival surface reconstruction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Rivas
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, España.
| | - A Blázquez
- Laboratorio de Ingeniería Celular, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| | - F J Muñoz-Negrete
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, España
| | - S López
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Central de la Cruz Roja, Madrid, España
| | - G Rebolleda
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, España
| | - F Domínguez
- Laboratorio de Ingeniería Celular, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| | - A Pérez-Esteban
- Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, España
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kawakita T, Espana EM, Higa K, Kato N, Li W, Tseng SCG. Activation of Smad-mediated TGF-β signaling triggers epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in murine cloned corneal progenitor cells. J Cell Physiol 2012; 228:225-34. [PMID: 22674610 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), via activation of Wnt signaling, is prevailing in embryogenesis, but postnatally it only occurs in pathological processes, such as in tissue fibrosis and tumor metastasis. Our prior studies led us to speculate that EMT might be involved in the loss of limbal epithelial stem cells in explant cultures. To examine this hypothesis, we successfully grew murine corneal/limbal epithelial progenitors by prolonging the culture time and by seeding at a low density in a serum-free medium. Single cell-derived clonal growth was accompanied by a gradient of Wnt signaling activity, from the center to the periphery, marked by a centrifugal loss of E-cadherin and β-catenin from intercellular junctions, coupled with nuclear translocation of β-catenin and LEF-1. Large-colony-forming efficiency at central location of colony was higher than peripheral location. Importantly, there was also progressive centrifugal differentiation, with positive K14 keratin expression and the loss of p63 and PCNA nuclear staining, and irreversible EMT, evidenced by cytoplasmic expression of α-SMA and nuclear localization of S100A4; and by nuclear translocation of Smad4. Furthermore, cytoplasmic expression of α-SMA was promoted by high-density cultures and their conditioned media, which contained cell density-dependent levels of TGF-β1, TGF-β2, GM-CSF, and IL-1α. Exogenous TGF-β1 induced α-SMA positive cells in a low-density culture, while TGF-β1 neutralizing antibody partially inhibited α-SMA expression in a high-density culture. Collectively, these results indicate that irreversible EMT emerges in the periphery of clonal expansion where differentiation and senescence of murine corneal/limbal epithelial progenitors occurs as a result of Smad-mediated TGF-β-signaling.
Collapse
|
12
|
Schrader S, Tuft SJ, Beaconsfield M, Borrelli M, Geerling G, Daniels JT. Evaluation of Human MRC-5 Cells as a Feeder Layer in a Xenobiotic-Free Culture System for Conjunctival Epithelial Progenitor Cells. Curr Eye Res 2012; 37:1067-74. [DOI: 10.3109/02713683.2012.713155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
|
13
|
Schrader S, Notara M, Beaconsfield M, Tuft SJ, Daniels JT, Geerling G. Tissue engineering for conjunctival reconstruction: established methods and future outlooks. Curr Eye Res 2010; 34:913-24. [PMID: 19958107 DOI: 10.3109/02713680903198045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Reconstruction of the conjunctiva is an essential part of ocular surface regeneration, especially if an extensive area or the whole ocular surface is affected, such as in patients with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or chemical/thermal burns. In these situations, corneal reconstruction almost inevitably fails unless the conjunctival surface is first repaired and a deep fornix is restored. The growing field of tissue engineering and advances in stem cell research offer promising new alternatives for these challenges. This article reviews the present approaches for reconstruction of the conjunctival surface, considering the established strategies and new potential methodologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Schrader
- Cells for Sight Transplantation and Research Programme, Department of Ocular Biology and Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schrader S, Notara M, Beaconsfield M, Tuft S, Geerling G, Daniels JT. Conjunctival epithelial cells maintain stem cell properties after long-term culture and cryopreservation. Regen Med 2009; 4:677-87. [DOI: 10.2217/rme.09.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Transplantation of tissue-engineered conjunctival epithelial cell sheets has proven to be a promising technique for conjunctival reconstruction. The ability to cryopreserve conjunctival epithelial cells and maintain their stem cell population would improve their availability for clinical use. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether cryopreservation and long-term in vitro culture has an effect on the proliferative capacity and the progenitor-like cell characteristics of conjunctival epithelial cells. Method: Human conjunctival cells from bulbar biopsies were isolated and expanded on a growth arrested 3T3 feeder layer. The cells were evaluated for cytokeratin (CK4/CK19) expression by immunostaining. An aliquot with half of the cells from the initial culture was frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored for 14 days and, in addition, donor cells were cryopreserved for more than 6 months (202.7 ± 13.0 days). Both cryopreserved and noncryopreserved cells were serially cultivated over four passages. For each passage the colony-forming efficiency and the cell population doubling rates were evaluated, and expression of putative progenitor cell markers, p63α and ABCG2, was assessed by immunostaining and reverse transcription PCR. Results: Both noncryopreserved and cryopreserved cells demonstrated a high colony-forming capacity that decreased with passage. Cells from both groups underwent approximately 20 cell population doublings before senescence. Immunoreactivity to p63α and ABCG2 was found in both groups until passage 4 and their presence was also confirmed by reverse transcription PCR. No difference in cell viability, colony-forming efficiency and immunoreactivity to p63α and ABCG2 was observed between cells cryopreserved for 14 days, and more than 6 months (202.7 ± 13.0 days). Conclusion: Conjunctival epithelial cells with progenitor cell-like characteristics can be efficiently cryopreserved and can subsequently maintain their function in vitro over several culture passages. The option to cryopreserve conjunctival cells prior to in vitro expansion would be an advantage when cells have to be cultivated for clinical transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Schrader
- Cells for Sight Transplantation & Research Programme, Department of Ocular Biology & Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, EC1V 9EL, London, UK
- University of Luebeck, Germany
| | - M Notara
- Cells for Sight Transplantation & Research Programme, Department of Ocular Biology & Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, EC1V 9EL, London, UK
| | - M Beaconsfield
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S Tuft
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - G Geerling
- Julius-Maximilian University, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - JT Daniels
- Cells for Sight Transplantation & Research Programme, Department of Ocular Biology & Therapeutics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, EC1V 9EL, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Ocular surface disorder underlies a diverse group of prevalent diseases in the United States, caused by biological aging, autoimmune conditions, trauma, or iatrogenic factors. Left untreated, these conditions can progress to vision loss or destruction of the globe itself. This review discusses the most recent and relevant clinical and experimental advances in the treatment options for ocular surface disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Current literature suggests that recent progress in tissue bioengineering, and molecular and cellular biology research presents many potential interventional therapies for ocular surface diseases. Depending on the pathogenesis of each condition, treatment options include bioengineered amniotic membrane graft, limbal stem cell transplantation, conjunctival and extraocular tissue transplantation, multiagent immunosuppressant therapy, and bioartificial devices such as lacrimal gland microdevices and keratoprostheses, or tissue adhesives. SUMMARY Much progress has been made in the fields of microbiology, stem-cell research, tissue engineering, and bioartificial devices for the treatment of the heterogeneous group of ocular surface disorders. Intensive efforts are underway to ensure the adaptation and accessibility of these therapeutic options to the general population.
Collapse
|
16
|
Chung SH, Lee JH, Yoon JH, Lee HK, Seo KY. Multi-layered culture of primary human conjunctival epithelial cells producing MUC5AC. Exp Eye Res 2007; 85:226-33. [PMID: 17568580 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2007.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2007] [Revised: 04/04/2007] [Accepted: 04/23/2007] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of our study was to establish a system for culturing normal human conjunctival epithelial (NHCE) cells under serum-free culture conditions without compromising their ability to differentiate into a mucous epithelium. To this end, small pieces of normal conjunctiva were biopsied from patients undergoing cataract surgery. Obtained NHCE cells were cultured in bronchial epithelial growth medium (BEGM) under serum free culture conditions and passage 3 cells were air-lifted. Cultured NHCE cells displayed typical epithelial morphology. Expression of cytokeratin 19 and conjunctival epithelial specific carbohydrate residue were detected. Air-lifted NHCE cells demonstrated an increase in stratification and differentiation into goblet cells up to 3weeks under air-liquid interface (ALI) culture condition. NHCE cells expressed MUC1, MUC4, MUC16, and MUC5AC mRNA, and MUC5AC production and secretion increased in a time dependent manner after culture under ALI conditions. Exposure of cells to proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha or IFN-gamma) resulted in upregulation of MUC1, MUC4, MUC16, and MUC5AC gene expression. In conclusion, differentiated NHCE cells showed features of a multi-layered conjunctival epithelium, including goblet cells, and retained functional characteristics similar to those seen in vivo. This cell culture system can better facilitate investigation of conjunctival epithelial cell biology and goblet cell differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- So-Hyang Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inje University College of Medicine, SeoulPaik Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
O’Sullivan NL, Baylor AE, Montgomery PC. Development of immortalized rat conjunctival epithelial cell lines: an in vitro model to examine transepithelial antigen delivery. Exp Eye Res 2006; 84:323-31. [PMID: 17123516 PMCID: PMC1839946 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2006.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2006] [Revised: 09/01/2006] [Accepted: 10/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective of these studies was to develop conjunctival epithelial cell lines for investigation of antigen translocation across a mucosal barrier. Conjunctival epithelial cells from Fischer 344 rats were immortalized with pSV3(neo) resulting in two cell lines--CJ4.1A and CJ4.3C. Each formed confluent cell layers with epithelial morphology when grown on permeable membrane filters. They expressed the SV40 T antigen, the conjunctiva-specific cytokeratin 4, the goblet cell-specific cytokeratin 7 and were negative for the corneal epithelial cell-specific cytokeratin 12. The cell lines have been in culture for over 60 passages, and the population doubling times were 22+/-7h for CJ4.1A and 23+/-9h for CJ4.3C. When grown on Transwell membranes, each cell line achieved a transepithelial electrical resistance of 600-800 Omega cm2 by 3-4 days and maintained a high resistance for several days. Both cell lines expressed zona occludens-1 at confluence. At 24h following addition of 250 microg of FITC-labeled ovalbumin to the apical chambers, 15+/-6 microg could be detected in the basal chamber of CJ4.1A and 6+/-1 microg in the basal medium of CJ4.3C. In contrast, 82+/-6 microg was detected in the lower chambers of cell-free Transwells. Similarly, Transwells containing confluent CJ4.1A or CJ4.3C cells impeded passage of 0.1 microm diameter polystyrene microspheres (5+/-1% and 4+/-1%, respectively, of the apical input), compared to 26+/-6% of the input microspheres recovered from the basal chambers of cell-free Transwells. Pretreatment with 4mM EGTA for 10 min caused an increase in OVA-FITC translocation across CJ4.3C cells. Incubation in the presence of 4mM EGTA significantly increased OVA-FITC translocation across both cell lines, relative to untreated cell layers. Morphological and functional characterization indicates that these cells provide a useful experimental tool to assess strategies for enhancing transepithelial antigen uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy L. O’Sullivan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Corresponding author. Dr. Nancy L. O’Sullivan, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State, University School of Medicine, 540 E. Canfield Ave. Detroit, MI 48210, USA., Telephone: (313) 577-1370, Fax: (313) 577-1155
| | - Alfred E. Baylor
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Paul C. Montgomery
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Selvam S, Thomas PB, Yiu SC. Tissue engineering: current and future approaches to ocular surface reconstruction. Ocul Surf 2006; 4:120-36. [PMID: 16900268 DOI: 10.1016/s1542-0124(12)70039-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although cells have been cultured outside the body for many years, research has only recently begun to develop complex three-dimensional tissue constructs that will, ideally, mature into fully functional tissues and organs. Tissue engineering is an emerging field in the area of biotechnology that combines the principles and methods of life sciences with those of engineering for the purpose of regenerating, repairing, or replacing diseased tissues. In this review, we describe the recent advances and current development of tissue engineering approaches as related to the ocular surface system, which comprises the three main integrated tissue units: conjunctiva, cornea and lacrimal glands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivaram Selvam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sun L, Ryan DG, Zhou M, Sun TT, Lavker RM. EEDA: a protein associated with an early stage of stratified epithelial differentiation. J Cell Physiol 2006; 206:103-11. [PMID: 15920738 PMCID: PMC1523255 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.20433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Using suppressive subtractive hybridization, we have identified a novel gene, which we named early epithelial differentiation associated (EEDA), which is uniquely associated with an early stage of stratified epithelial differentiation. In epidermis, esophageal epithelium, and tongue epithelium, EEDA mRNA, and antigen was abundant in suprabasal cells, but was barely detectable in more differentiated cells. Consistent with the limbal location of corneal epithelial stem cells, EEDA was expressed in basal corneal epithelial cells that are out of the stem cell compartment, as well as the suprabasal corneal epithelial cells. The strongest EEDA expression occurred in suprabasal precortical cells of mouse, bovine, and human anagen follicles. Developmental studies showed that the appearance of EEDA in embryonic mouse epidermis (E 15.5) coincided with morphological keratinization. Interestingly, EEDA expression is turned off when epithelia were perturbed by wounding and by cultivation under both low and high Ca2+ conditions. Our results indicate that EEDA is involved in the early stages of normal epithelial differentiation, and that EEDA is important for the "normal" differentiation pathway in a wide range of stratified epithelia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Sun
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vascotto SG, Griffith M. Localization of candidate stem and progenitor cell markers within the human cornea, limbus, and bulbar conjunctiva in vivo and in cell culture. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 288:921-31. [PMID: 16779811 DOI: 10.1002/ar.a.20346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Corneal diseases are some of the most prevalent causes of blindness worldwide. While the most common treatment for corneal blindness is the transplantation of cadaver corneas, expanded limbal stem cells are finding recent application. Unknown, however, is the identity of the actual repopulating stem cell fraction utilized in both treatments and the critical factors governing successful engraftment and repopulation. In order to localize potential stem cell populations in vivo, we have immunohistochemically mapped a battery of candidate stem and progenitor cell markers including c-Kit and other growth factor receptors, nuclear markers including DeltaNp63, as well as adhesion factors across the cornea and distal sclera. Cell populations that differentially and specifically stained for some of these markers include the basal and superficial limbal/conjunctival epithelium and scattered cells within the substantia propria of the bulbar conjunctiva. We have also determined that the culture of differentiated cornea epithelial cells as dissociated and explant cultures induces the expression of several markers previously characterized as candidate limbal stem cell markers. This study provides a foundation to explore candidate corneal stem cell populations. As well, we show that expression of traditional stem cell markers may not be reliable indicator of stem cell content during limbal stem cell expansion in vitro and could contribute to the variable success rates of corneal stem cell transplantation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Ang LPK, Tan DTH, Seah CJY, Beuerman RW. The use of human serum in supporting the in vitro and in vivo proliferation of human conjunctival epithelial cells. Br J Ophthalmol 2005; 89:748-52. [PMID: 15923513 PMCID: PMC1772683 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2004.055046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the use of human serum (HS) in supporting the in vitro and in vivo proliferation of human conjunctival epithelial cells, and compare it with fetal bovine serum (FBS) and bovine pituitary extract (BPE). METHODS Conjunctival epithelial cells were cultivated in media supplemented with HS (5%, 10%), FBS (5%, 10%), and BPE (70 microg/ml, 140 microg/ml). The colony forming efficiency (CFE), bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) ELISA proliferation assay, and cell generations were analysed. Cells were evaluated for keratin (K4, K19, and K3) and MUC5AC expression by immunostaining and RT-PCR. Conjunctival equivalents constructed on amniotic membranes were transplanted onto severe combined immune deficient (SCID) mice for 10 days and analysed histologically. RESULTS The proliferation assays of HS supplemented cultures (CFE, 6.7% (SD 1.8%); BrdU absorbance, 0.86 (0.16)) were comparable to FBS supplemented (CFE, 9.3% (1.8%); BrdU absorbance, 1.11 (0.18)) and BPE supplemented cultures (CFE, 5.9 (1.5); BrdU absorbance, 0.65 (0.12)). Goblet cell densities for HS, FBS, and BPE supplemented media were 52 cells/cm(2), 60 cells/cm(2), and 50 cells/cm(2), respectively. HS supplemented cultures formed stratified epithelial sheets in vivo following transplantation. CONCLUSIONS The proliferative capacity of conjunctival epithelial cells cultivated in HS supplemented cultures was comparable to FBS and BPE supplemented cultures. The elimination of animal material from the culture system is advantageous when cultivating cells for clinical transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L P K Ang
- Singapore National Eye Center, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, Singapore 168751.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Massaro-Giordano M, Marshall CM, Lavker RM, Jensen PJ, Risse Marsh BC. Plasminogen activator inhibitor type 2 (PAI-2) is present in normal human conjunctiva. J Cell Physiol 2005; 205:295-301. [PMID: 15887231 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.20398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The purpose was to characterize plasminogen activator inhibitor type 2 (PAI-2) expression in normal human conjunctiva in vivo and in vitro. PAI-2 antigen was assayed by immunostaining and immunoblotting of extracts from normal human conjunctival epithelial lysates and conditioned media (CM) of cultured human conjunctival keratinocytes. Immunostaining of normal human conjunctival epithelia revealed that PAI-2 was found consistently in the superficial keratinocytes and, in some biopsies, also in the lower keratinocyte layers. In all cases, PAI-2 was concentrated around the cell periphery. In extracts of conjunctival epithelia and cultured conjunctival keratinocytes, PAI-2 had an apparent molecular weight of 45 kDa, consistent with the non-glycosylated form. The majority of PAI-2, approximately 90%, was cell associated, however, a small percentage of PAI-2 was released into the CM in a linear manner with time. PAI-2 in the conditioned medium had a higher molecular weight, consistent with a glycosylated form. Conjunctival PAI-2 was active, as shown by its ability to complex with a target enzyme, urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). Although PAI-2 was detectable both in monolayer (i.e., relatively undifferentiated) conjunctival keratinocyte cultures as well as in stratified (i.e., more differentiated) cultures, steady state levels of PAI-2 were greater in the latter. PAI-2 is constitutively expressed by normal human conjunctival epithelial cells. The expression of PAI-2 throughout all epithelial layers in some biopsies of conjunctiva in vivo contrasts with the previously established distribution of PAI-2 in corneal epithelia, where it is present exclusively in the most superficial (i.e. most highly differentiated) cells. The role of PAI-2 in either tissue is unclear. However, we speculate that its distinct distribution in conjunctival versus corneal epithelia underscores inherent differences between these tissues, and may reflect specific functions of this proteinase inhibitor in both conjunctival and corneal epithelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Massaro-Giordano
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ang LPK, Tan DTH, Phan TT, Li J, Beuerman R, Lavker RM. The in vitro and in vivo proliferative capacity of serum-free cultivated human conjunctival epithelial cells. Curr Eye Res 2004; 28:307-17. [PMID: 15287367 DOI: 10.1076/ceyr.28.5.307.28677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the in vitro and in vivo proliferative capacity of human conjunctival epithelial cells cultured in serum-free media, and to compare this with current methods that utilize serum-containing media and 3T3 feeder layers. METHODS Human conjunctival epithelial cells were cultivated in serum-free media alone, serum-free media with a 3T3 feeder layer, and serum-containing media with a 3T3 feeder layer. The areas of outgrowth, colony-forming efficiencies and number of population doublings were compared. The in vivo proliferative potential was assessed by analyzing the number of cells generated by the implantation of cultured cells into athymic mice. Cultured cells were evaluated for the expression of cytokeratins K3, K4, K12, K19, as well as the gel-forming goblet cell mucin, MUC5AC. RESULTS Cells cultivated in serum-free media, serum-free media and feeder cells, and serum-containing media and feeder cells achieved colony-forming efficiencies of 14.5 +/- 4.1%, 10.1 +/- 3.1%, and 20.4 +/- 6.7%, respectively, and number of population doublings of 24.8 +/- 4.3, 14.8 +/- 3.6, and 30.0 +/- 5.0, respectively. Nine-day old athymic mice conjunctival cysts derived from serum-free cultures comprised 1.29 x 10(6) +/- 0.46 x 10(6) cells, while cysts derived from serum-containing cultures comprised 1.30 x 10(6) +/- 0.53 x 10(6) cells. The degree of epithelial stratification was similar in both conditions. Serum-free cultivated conjunctival cells retained their in vivo characteristics and expressed K4, K19 and MUC5AC. The presence of MUC5AC mRNA in these cells was confirmed by RT-PCR. CONCLUSIONS Conjunctival epithelial cells propagated in serum-free media demonstrated a similar in vivo proliferative capability, as compared to serum-containing media with 3T3 feeder cells. This has important clinical implications, as the serum-free ex vivo expansion of cells for clinical transplantation overcomes the problems associated with the use of animal serum and cells.
Collapse
|