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Ripolles-Garcia A, Dolgova N, Phillips MJ, Savina S, Ludwig AL, Stuedemann SA, Nlebedum U, Wolfe JH, Garden OA, Maminishkis A, Amaral J, Bharti K, Gamm DM, Aguirre GD, Beltran WA. Systemic immunosuppression promotes survival and integration of subretinally implanted human ESC-derived photoreceptor precursors in dogs. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1824-1841. [PMID: 35905738 PMCID: PMC9391525 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative therapies aimed at replacing photoreceptors are a promising approach for the treatment of otherwise incurable causes of blindness. However, such therapies still face significant hurdles, including the need to improve subretinal delivery and long-term survival rate of transplanted cells, and promote sufficient integration into the host retina. Here, we successfully delivered in vitro-derived human photoreceptor precursor cells (PRPCs; also known as immature photoreceptors) to the subretinal space of seven normal and three rcd1/PDE6B mutant dogs with advanced inherited retinal degeneration. Notably, while these xenografts were rejected in dogs that were not immunosuppressed, transplants in most dogs receiving systemic immunosuppression survived up to 3–5 months postinjection. Moreover, differentiation of donor PRPCs into photoreceptors with synaptic pedicle-like structures that established contact with second-order neurons was enhanced in rcd1/PDE6B mutant dogs. Together, our findings set the stage for evaluating functional vision restoration following photoreceptor replacement in canine models of inherited retinal degeneration. In vivo multimodal imaging identified early signs of transplant rejection Systemic immunosuppression was necessary for long-term survival of xenotransplants Human donor photoreceptors integrated and differentiated mostly into M/L cones A degenerating retinal environment enhances structural synaptogenesis in PRPCs
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ripolles-Garcia
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Natalia Dolgova
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - M Joseph Phillips
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Svetlana Savina
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Allison L Ludwig
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Sara A Stuedemann
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Uchenna Nlebedum
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - John H Wolfe
- Walter Flato Goodman Center for Comparative Medical Genetics, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Oliver A Garden
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Arvydas Maminishkis
- Section on Epithelial and Retinal Physiology and Disease, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Juan Amaral
- Office of Scientific Director, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Unit on Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - David M Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Gustavo D Aguirre
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - William A Beltran
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Retinal Organoid Technology: Where Are We Now? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910244. [PMID: 34638582 PMCID: PMC8549701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is difficult to regenerate mammalian retinal cells once the adult retina is damaged, and current clinical approaches to retinal damages are very limited. The introduction of the retinal organoid technique empowers researchers to study the molecular mechanisms controlling retinal development, explore the pathogenesis of retinal diseases, develop novel treatment options, and pursue cell/tissue transplantation under a certain genetic background. Here, we revisit the historical background of retinal organoid technology, categorize current methods of organoid induction, and outline the obstacles and potential solutions to next-generation retinal organoids. Meanwhile, we recapitulate recent research progress in cell/tissue transplantation to treat retinal diseases, and discuss the pros and cons of transplanting single-cell suspension versus retinal organoid sheet for cell therapies.
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Hippert C, Graca AB, Basche M, Kalargyrou AA, Georgiadis A, Ribeiro J, Matsuyama A, Aghaizu N, Bainbridge JW, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Pearson RA. RNAi-mediated suppression of vimentin or glial fibrillary acidic protein prevents the establishment of Müller glial cell hypertrophy in progressive retinal degeneration. Glia 2021; 69:2272-2290. [PMID: 34029407 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gliosis is a complex process comprising upregulation of intermediate filament (IF) proteins, particularly glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin, changes in glial cell morphology (hypertrophy) and increased deposition of inhibitory extracellular matrix molecules. Gliosis is common to numerous pathologies and can have deleterious effects on tissue function and regeneration. The role of IFs in gliosis is controversial, but a key hypothesized function is the stabilization of glial cell hypertrophy. Here, we developed RNAi approaches to examine the role of GFAP and vimentin in vivo in a murine model of inherited retinal degeneration, the Rhodopsin knockout (Rho-/- ) mouse. Specifically, we sought to examine the role of these IFs in the establishment of Müller glial hypertrophy during progressive degeneration, as opposed to (more commonly assessed) acute injury. Prevention of Gfap upregulation had a significant effect on the morphology of reactive Müller glia cells in vivo and, more strikingly, the reduction of Vimentin expression almost completely prevented these cells from undergoing degeneration-associated hypertrophy. Moreover, and in contrast to studies in knockout mice, simultaneous suppression of both GFAP and vimentin expression led to severe changes in the cytoarchitecture of the retina, in both diseased and wild-type eyes. These data demonstrate a crucial role for Vimentin, as well as GFAP, in the establishment of glial hypertrophy and support the further exploration of RNAi-mediated knockdown of vimentin as a potential therapeutic approach for modulating scar formation in the degenerating retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Hippert
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Anna B Graca
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Mark Basche
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Aikaterini A Kalargyrou
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Joana Ribeiro
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Ayako Matsuyama
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Nozie Aghaizu
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | | | - Alexander J Smith
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Centre for Cell and Gene Therapy, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
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Pan T, Shen H, Yuan S, Lu G, Zhang Y, Wang H, Zhao Y, Sun X, Liu Q. Combined Transplantation With Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improves Retinal Rescue Effect of Human Fetal RPE Cells in Retinal Degeneration Mouse Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:9. [PMID: 32639552 PMCID: PMC7425709 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We verified whether fetal RPE (fRPE) cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cotransplantation can combine the features of these two cell types and alleviate retinal degeneration in a retinal degenerative disease mouse model. Methods Tail vein injection of sodium iodate (NaIO3) was conducted to establish the retinal degenerative disease mouse model. MSCs and fRPE cells were transplanted either separately or combined in the subretinal space of retinal degenerative disease animals. ERG, optical coherence tomography, histologic, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed. Furthermore, the expression level of Crx, rhodopsin, Iba1, F4/80, Caspase 3, nerve growth factor, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor were assessed to investigate the mechanisms involved in cell transplantation effects. Results Cotransplantation of fRPE and MSC cells promoted significant improvements in ERG results and in the survival rate of transplanted cells. In addition, MSC and fRPE cell cotransplantation resulted in an increase in the thickness of the total retina, as well as in the outer and inner nuclear layers. Combined transplantation also upregulated the expression level of Crx and rhodopsin and downregulated caspase 3 expression, highlighting its better photoreceptor rescue effect in relation to the single cell type transplantation. Finally, combined transplantation suppressed the expression of Iba1 and F4/80 factors while increasing the endogenous expression of nerve growth factor and brain-derived nerve growth factor neurotrophic factors. These data suggest that MSC and fRPE cell cotransplantation is able to suppress immunoreactions and promote neurotrophic factor excretion. Conclusions Combined transplantation of MSCs and fRPE cells results in a better retinal rescue effect than single cell type transplantation in NaIO3-induced retinopathy.
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Verra DM, Sajdak BS, Merriman DK, Hicks D. Diurnal rodents as pertinent animal models of human retinal physiology and pathology. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 74:100776. [PMID: 31499165 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This presentation will survey the retinal architecture, advantages, and limitations of several lesser-known rodent species that provide a useful diurnal complement to rats and mice. These diurnal rodents also possess unusually cone-rich photoreceptor mosaics that facilitate the study of cone cells and pathways. Species to be presented include principally the Sudanian Unstriped Grass Rat and Nile Rat (Arvicanthis spp.), the Fat Sand Rat (Psammomys obesus), the degu (Octodon degus) and the 13-lined ground squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus). The retina and optic nerve in several of these species demonstrate unusual resilience in the face of neuronal injury, itself an interesting phenomenon with potential translational value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela M Verra
- Department of Neurobiology of Rhythms, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI), CNRS UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Dana K Merriman
- Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
| | - David Hicks
- Department of Neurobiology of Rhythms, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI), CNRS UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France.
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Beyeler M. Commentary: Detailed Visual Cortical Responses Generated by Retinal Sheet Transplants in Rats With Severe Retinal Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:471. [PMID: 31133795 PMCID: PMC6524404 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Beyeler
- Vision and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Institute for Neuroengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- eScience Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael Beyeler
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Zou T, Gao L, Zeng Y, Li Q, Li Y, Chen S, Hu X, Chen X, Fu C, Xu H, Yin ZQ. Organoid-derived C-Kit +/SSEA4 - human retinal progenitor cells promote a protective retinal microenvironment during transplantation in rodents. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1205. [PMID: 30872578 PMCID: PMC6418223 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08961-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy may replace lost photoreceptors and preserve residual photoreceptors during retinal degeneration (RD). Unfortunately, the degenerative microenvironment compromises the fate of grafted cells, demanding supplementary strategies for microenvironment regulation. Donor cells with both proper regeneration capability and intrinsic ability to improve microenvironment are highly desired. Here, we use cell surface markers (C-Kit+/SSEA4−) to effectively eliminate tumorigenic embryonic cells and enrich retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) from human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived retinal organoids, which, following subretinal transplantation into RD models of rats and mice, significantly improve vision and preserve the retinal structure. We characterize the pattern of integration and materials transfer following transplantation, which likely contribute to the rescued photoreceptors. Moreover, C-Kit+/SSEA4− cells suppress microglial activation, gliosis and the production of inflammatory mediators, thereby providing a healthier host microenvironment for the grafted cells and delaying RD. Therefore, C-Kit+/SSEA4− cells from hESC-derived retinal organoids are a promising therapeutic cell source. Stem cell transplantation to treat retinal degeneration could be limited by the degenerative microenvironment. Here, the authors show that C-Kit+/SSEA4– progenitor cells enriched from human embryonic stem cell derived retinal organoids protect retinal structure, suppress microglial activation, gliosis and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zou
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Lixiong Gao
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yuxiao Zeng
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qiyou Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yijian Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xisu Hu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Caiyun Fu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China. .,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Zheng Qin Yin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China. .,Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Devoldere J, Peynshaert K, De Smedt SC, Remaut K. Müller cells as a target for retinal therapy. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1483-1498. [PMID: 30731239 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Müller cells are specialized glial cells that span the entire retina from the vitreous cavity to the subretinal space. Their functional diversity and unique radial morphology render them particularly interesting targets for new therapeutic approaches. In this review, we reflect on various possibilities for selective Müller cell targeting and describe how some of their cellular mechanisms can be used for retinal neuroprotection. Intriguingly, cross-species investigation of their properties has revealed that Müller cells also have an essential role in retinal regeneration. Although many questions regarding this subject remain, it is clear that Müller cells have unique characteristics that make them suitable targets for the prevention and treatment of numerous retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joke Devoldere
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Peynshaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Lin B, McLelland BT, Mathur A, Aramant RB, Seiler MJ. Sheets of human retinal progenitor transplants improve vision in rats with severe retinal degeneration. Exp Eye Res 2018; 174:13-28. [PMID: 29782826 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Loss of photoreceptors and other retinal cells is a common endpoint in retinal degenerate (RD) diseases that cause blindness. Retinal transplantation is a potential therapy to replace damaged retinal cells and improve vision. In this study, we examined the development of human fetal retinal sheets with or without their retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplanted to immunodeficient retinal degenerate rho S334ter-3 rats. Sheets were dissected from fetal human eyes (11-15.7 weeks gestation) and then transplanted to the subretinal space of 24-31 d old RD nude rats. Every month post surgery, eyes were imaged by high-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). SD-OCT showed that transplants were placed into the subretinal space and developed laminated areas or rosettes, with clear development of plexiform layers first seen in OCT at 3 months post surgery. Several months later, as could be expected by the much slower development of human cells compared to rat cells, transplant photoreceptors developed inner and later outer segments. Retinal sections were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for human and retinal markers and confirmed the formation of several retinal subtypes within the retinal layers. Transplant cells extended processes and a lot of the cells could also be seen migrating into the host retina. At 5.8-8.6 months post surgery, selected rats were exposed to light flashes and recorded for visual responses in superior colliculus, (visual center in midbrain). Four of seven rats with transplants showed responses to flashes of light in a limited area of superior colliculus. No response with the same dim light intensity was found in age-matched RD controls (non-surgery or sham surgery). In summary, our data showed that human fetal retinal sheets transplanted to the severely disturbed subretinal space of RD nude rats develop mature photoreceptors and other retinal cells, integrate with the host and induce vision improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lin
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of CalifoArnia, Irvine, United States
| | - Bryce T McLelland
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of CalifoArnia, Irvine, United States
| | - Anuradha Mathur
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of CalifoArnia, Irvine, United States
| | - Robert B Aramant
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of CalifoArnia, Irvine, United States
| | - Magdalene J Seiler
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of CalifoArnia, Irvine, United States; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, United States.
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Establishing a Surgical Procedure for Rhesus Epiretinal Scaffold Implantation with HiPSC-Derived Retinal Progenitors. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:9437041. [PMID: 29760741 PMCID: PMC5924980 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9437041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2017] [Revised: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To develop an effective surgical procedure for cellular scaffold epiretinal implantation in rhesus, facilitating subsequent epiretinal stem cell transplantation. Methods Retinal progenitors were seeded onto a poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) scaffold. First, the cellular scaffolds were delivered by 18G catheter or retinal forceps into rabbit epiretinal space (n = 50). Then, the cell survival rate was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Second, three methods of scaffold fixation, including adhesion after gas-liquid exchange (n = 1), tamponade by hydrogel (n = 1), and fixation by retinal tacks (n = 4), were performed in rhesus monkeys. After one month, fundus photography and SD-OCT were performed to assess the outcomes, and histological examination was performed to evaluate proliferation. Results The cell survival rate was significantly higher in the catheter group. Follow-up examination showed that retinal tack fixation was the only method to maintain the scaffolds attached to host retina for at least 3 weeks, which is the minimal time required for cell integration. Histological staining demonstrated slight glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) accumulation in the retinal tack insertion area. Conclusions The established surgical procedure offers a new insight into research of epiretinal cell replacement therapy in rhesus eyes. The successful delivery and long-term fixation provide a prerequisite for cell migration and integration.
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Waldron PV, Di Marco F, Kruczek K, Ribeiro J, Graca AB, Hippert C, Aghaizu ND, Kalargyrou AA, Barber AC, Grimaldi G, Duran Y, Blackford SJI, Kloc M, Goh D, Zabala Aldunate E, Sampson RD, Bainbridge JWB, Smith AJ, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Sowden JC, Ali RR, Pearson RA. Transplanted Donor- or Stem Cell-Derived Cone Photoreceptors Can Both Integrate and Undergo Material Transfer in an Environment-Dependent Manner. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 10:406-421. [PMID: 29307580 PMCID: PMC5830910 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human vision relies heavily upon cone photoreceptors, and their loss results in permanent visual impairment. Transplantation of healthy photoreceptors can restore visual function in models of inherited blindness, a process previously understood to arise by donor cell integration within the host retina. However, we and others recently demonstrated that donor rod photoreceptors engage in material transfer with host photoreceptors, leading to the host cells acquiring proteins otherwise expressed only by donor cells. We sought to determine whether stem cell- and donor-derived cones undergo integration and/or material transfer. We find that material transfer accounts for a significant proportion of rescued cells following cone transplantation into non-degenerative hosts. Strikingly, however, substantial numbers of cones integrated into the Nrl-/- and Prph2rd2/rd2, but not Nrl-/-;RPE65R91W/R91W, murine models of retinal degeneration. This confirms the occurrence of photoreceptor integration in certain models of retinal degeneration and demonstrates the importance of the host environment in determining transplantation outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul V Waldron
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Fabiana Di Marco
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Kamil Kruczek
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Joana Ribeiro
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Anna B Graca
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Claire Hippert
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Nozie D Aghaizu
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | | | - Amanda C Barber
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Giulia Grimaldi
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Yanai Duran
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | | | - Magdalena Kloc
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Debbie Goh
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Eduardo Zabala Aldunate
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Robert D Sampson
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | | | - Alexander J Smith
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | | | - Jane C Sowden
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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Graca AB, Hippert C, Pearson RA. Müller Glia Reactivity and Development of Gliosis in Response to Pathological Conditions. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:303-308. [PMID: 29721957 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Within the mammalian retina, both Müller glia and astrocytes display reactivity in response to many forms of retinal injury and disease in a process termed gliosis. Reactive gliosis is a complex process that is considered to represent a cellular response to protect the retina from further damage and to promote its repair following pathological insult. It includes morphological, biochemical and physiological changes, which may vary depending on the type and degree of the initial injury. Not only does gliosis have numerous triggers, but also there is a great degree of heterogeneity in the glial response, creating multiple levels of complexity. For these reasons, understanding the process of glial scar formation and how this process differs in different pathological conditions and finding strategies to circumvent these barriers represent major challenges to the advancement of many ocular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna B Graca
- Department of Genetics, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
| | - Claire Hippert
- Roche, Stem Cell Platform, Chemical Biology Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- Department of Genetics, University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.
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Gupta PR, Huckfeldt RM. Gene therapy for inherited retinal degenerations: initial successes and future challenges. J Neural Eng 2017; 14:051002. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa7a27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Combined transplantation of human mesenchymal stem cells and human retinal progenitor cells into the subretinal space of RCS rats. Sci Rep 2017; 7:199. [PMID: 28298640 PMCID: PMC5428026 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00241-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is one of hereditary retinal diseases characterized by the loss of photoreceptors. Cell transplantation has been clinically applied to treat RP patients. Human retinal progenitor cells (HRPCs) and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HBMSCs) are the two commonly and practically used stem cells for transplantation. Since combined transplantation could be a promising way to integrate the advantages of both stem cell types, we transplanted HRPCs and HBMSCs into the subretinal space (SRS) of Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats. We report that HRPCs/HBMSCs combined transplantation maintains the electroretinogram results much better than HRPCs or HBMSCs single transplantations. The thickness of outer nuclear layer also presented a better outcome in the combined transplantation. Importantly, grafted cells in the combination migrated better, both longitudinally and latitudinally, than single transplantation. The photoreceptor differentiation of grafted cells in the retina of RCS rats receiving combined transplantation also showed a higher ratio than single transplantation. Finally, activation of microglia and the gliosis of Müller cells were more effectively suppressed in combined transplantation, indicating better immunomodulatory and anti-gliosis effects. Taken together, combining the transplantation of HRPCs and HBMSCs is a more effective strategy in stem cell-based therapy for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Zhu J, Cifuentes H, Reynolds J, Lamba DA. Immunosuppression via Loss of IL2rγ Enhances Long-Term Functional Integration of hESC-Derived Photoreceptors in the Mouse Retina. Cell Stem Cell 2017; 20:374-384.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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