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Mallareddy V, Daigavane S. Nanoparticle-Mediated Cell Delivery: Advancements in Corneal Endothelial Regeneration. Cureus 2024; 16:e56958. [PMID: 38665717 PMCID: PMC11044897 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal endothelial dysfunction poses significant challenges in ophthalmology, leading to corneal edema and vision loss. Traditional treatments, including corneal transplantation, are limited by donor scarcity and potential complications. Nanoparticle-mediated cell delivery emerges as a promising approach for corneal endothelial regeneration, offering targeted and minimally invasive solutions. This comprehensive review provides insights into the role of nanoparticles in enhancing cell survival, integration, and therapeutic efficacy. We discuss the current understanding of corneal endothelial dysfunction, emphasizing the importance of regeneration. Furthermore, we explore the potential implications of nanoparticle-mediated approaches in clinical practice, highlighting opportunities for personalized treatment strategies. Future directions are also discussed, including optimization of nanoparticle design and exploration of combination therapies. Overall, this review elucidates the promising advancements in nanoparticle-mediated cell delivery for corneal endothelial regeneration and underscores the importance of continued research efforts in this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaya Mallareddy
- Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sachin Daigavane
- Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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2
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Ajgaonkar BS, Kumaran A, Kumar S, Jain RD, Dandekar PP. Cell-based Therapies for Corneal and Retinal Disorders. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2650-2682. [PMID: 37704835 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10623-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance of the visual function is the desired outcome of ophthalmologic therapies. The shortcomings of the current treatment options, like partial recovery, post-operation failure, rigorous post-operative care, complications, etc., which are usually encountered with the conventional treatment options has warranted newer treatment options that may eliminate the root cause of diseases and minimize the side effects. Cell therapies, a class of regenerative medicines, have emerged as cutting-edge treatment option. The corneal and retinal dystrophies during the ocular disorders are the major cause of blindness, worldwide. Corneal disorders are mainly categorized mainly into corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial disorders. On the other hand, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, Stargardt Disease, choroideremia, Leber congenital amaurosis are then major retinal degenerative disorders. In this manuscript, we have presented a detailed overview of the development of cell-based therapies, using embryonic stem cells, bone marrow stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, dental pulp stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, limbal stem cells, corneal epithelial, stromal and endothelial, embryonic stem cell-derived differentiated cells (like retinal pigment epithelium or RPE), neural progenitor cells, photoreceptor precursors, and bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells etc. The manuscript highlights their efficiency, drawbacks and the strategies that have been explored to regain visual function in the preclinical and clinical state associated with them which can be considered for their potential application in the development of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargavi Suryakant Ajgaonkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Akash Kumaran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Salil Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India
| | - Ratnesh D Jain
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prajakta P Dandekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400019, India.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Endothelial keratoplasty is the current gold standard for treating corneal endothelial diseases, achieving excellent visual outcomes and rapid rehabilitation. There are, however, severe limitations to donor tissue supply and uneven access to surgical teams and facilities across the globe. Cell therapy is an exciting approach that has shown promising early results. Herein, we review the latest developments in cell therapy for corneal endothelial disease. RECENT FINDINGS We highlight the work of several groups that have reported successful functional outcomes of cell therapy in animal models, with the utilization of human embryonic stem cells, human-induced pluripotent stem cells and cadaveric human corneal endothelial cells (CECs) to generate populations of CECs for intracameral injection. The use of corneal endothelial progenitors, viability of cryopreserved cells and efficacy of simple noncultured cells, in treating corneal decompensation is of particular interest. Further additions to the collective understanding of CEC physiology, and the process of cultivating and administering effective cell therapy are reviewed as well. SUMMARY The latest developments in cell therapy for corneal endothelial disease are presented. The continuous growth in this field gives rise to the hope that a viable solution to the large numbers of corneal blind around the world will one day be reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan N Wong
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School
- School of Material Science & Engineering and School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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Kumar A, Yun H, Funderburgh ML, Du Y. Regenerative therapy for the Cornea. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 87:101011. [PMID: 34530154 PMCID: PMC8918435 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is the outmost layer of the eye, unique in its transparency and strength. The cornea not only transmits the light essential for vision, also refracts light, giving focus to images. Each of the three layers of the cornea has properties essential for the function of vision. Although the epithelium can often recover from injury quickly by cell division, loss of limbal stem cells can cause severe corneal surface abnormalities leading to corneal blindness. Disruption of the stromal extracellular matrix and loss of cells determining this structure, the keratocytes, leads to corneal opacity. Corneal endothelium is the inner part of the cornea without self-renewal capacity. It is very important to maintain corneal dehydration and transparency. Permanent damage to the corneal stroma or endothelium can be effectively treated by corneal transplantation; however, there are drawbacks to this procedure, including a shortage of donors, the need for continuing treatment to prevent rejection, and limits to the survival of the graft, averaging 10-20 years. There exists a need for new strategies to promote regeneration of the stromal structure and restore vision. This review highlights critical contributions in regenerative medicine with the aim of corneal reconstruction after injury or disease. These approaches include corneal stromal stem cells, corneal limbal stem cells, embryonic stem cells, and other adult stem cells, as well as induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem cell-derived trophic factors in the forms of secretomes or exosomes for corneal regeneration are also discussed. Corneal sensory nerve regeneration promoting corneal transparency is discussed. This article provides description of the up-to-date options for corneal regeneration and presents exciting possible avenues for future studies toward clinical applications for corneal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Hongmin Yun
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | | | - Yiqin Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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Ong HS, Ang M, Mehta J. Evolution of therapies for the corneal endothelium: past, present and future approaches. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 105:454-467. [PMID: 32709756 PMCID: PMC8005807 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-316149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial diseases are leading indications for corneal transplantations. With significant advancement in medical science and surgical techniques, corneal transplant surgeries are now increasingly effective at restoring vision in patients with corneal diseases. In the last 15 years, the introduction of endothelial keratoplasty (EK) procedures, where diseased corneal endothelium (CE) are selectively replaced, has significantly transformed the field of corneal transplantation. Compared to traditional penetrating keratoplasty, EK procedures, namely Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), offer faster visual recovery, lower immunological rejection rates, and improved graft survival. Although these modern techniques can achieve high success, there are fundamental impediments to conventional transplantations. A lack of suitable donor corneas worldwide restricts the number of transplants that can be performed. Other barriers include the need for specialized expertise, high cost, and risks of graft rejection or failure. Research is underway to develop alternative treatments for corneal endothelial diseases, which are less dependent on the availability of allogeneic tissues - regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies. In this review, an overview of past and present transplantation procedures used to treat corneal endothelial diseases are described. Potential novel therapies that may be translated into clinical practice will also be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hon Shing Ong
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Marcus Ang
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir Mehta
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Material Science & Engineering and School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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Erkoc-Biradli FZ, Ozgun A, Öztürk-Öncel MÖ, Marcali M, Elbuken C, Bulut O, Rasier R, Garipcan B. Bioinspired hydrogel surfaces to augment corneal endothelial cell monolayer formation. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 15:244-255. [PMID: 33448665 DOI: 10.1002/term.3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Corneal endothelial cells (CECs) have limited proliferation ability leading to corneal endothelium (CE) dysfunction and eventually vision loss when cell number decreases below a critical level. Although transplantation is the main treatment method, donor shortage problem is a major bottleneck. The transplantation of in vitro developed endothelial cells with desirable density is a promising idea. Designing cell substrates that mimic the native CE microenvironment is a substantial step to achieve this goal. In the presented study, we prepared polyacrylamide (PA) cell substrates that have a microfabricated topography inspired by the dimensions of CECs. Hydrogel surfaces were prepared via two different designs with small and large patterns. Small patterned hydrogels have physiologically relevant hexagon densities (∼2000 hexagons/mm2 ), whereas large patterned hydrogels have sparsely populated hexagons (∼400 hexagons/mm2 ). These substrates have similar elastic modulus of native Descemet's membrane (DM; ∼50 kPa) and were modified with Collagen IV (Col IV) to have biochemical content similar to native DM. The behavior of bovine corneal endothelial cells on these substrates was investigated and results show that cell proliferation on small patterned substrates was significantly (p = 0.0004) higher than the large patterned substrates. Small patterned substrates enabled a more densely populated cell monolayer compared to other groups (p = 0.001 vs. flat and p < 0.0001 vs. large patterned substrates). These results suggest that generating bioinspired surface topographies augments the formation of CE monolayers with the desired cell density, addressing the in vitro development of CE layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Zehra Erkoc-Biradli
- (Bio)3 Research laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Bogazici University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alp Ozgun
- (Bio)3 Research laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Bogazici University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Merve Marcali
- Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Caglar Elbuken
- Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, National Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Osman Bulut
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Rıfat Rasier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bora Garipcan
- (Bio)3 Research laboratory, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Bogazici University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Montalvo-Parra MD, Vidal-Paredes IA, Calzada-Rodríguez CE, Cárdenas-Rodríguez IT, Torres-Guerrero GF, Gómez-Elizondo D, López-Martínez M, Zavala J, Valdez-García JE. Experimental design of a culture approach for corneal endothelial cells of New Zealand white rabbit. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05178. [PMID: 33072921 PMCID: PMC7548448 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The harvesting of corneal endothelial cells (CEC) has received special attention due to its potential as a therapy for corneal blindness. The main challenges are related to the culture media formulation, cellular density at the primary isolation, and the number of passages in which CEC can retain their functional characteristics. To alternate different media formulations to harvest CEC has an impact on the cellular yield and morphology. Therefore, we analyzed four different sequences of growth factor-supplemented Stimulatory (S) and non-supplemented Quiescent (Q) media, upon passages to find the optimal S-Q culture sequence. We assessed cell yield, morphology, procollagen I production, Na+/K+-ATPase function, and the expression of ZO-1 and Na+/K+-ATPase. Our results show SQSQ and SQQQ sequences with a balance between an improved cell yield and hexagonal morphology rate. CEC cultured in the SQQQ sequence produced procollagen I, showed Na+/K+-ATPase function, and expression of ZO-1 and Na+/K+-ATPase. Our study sets a culture approach to guarantee CEC expansion, as well as functionality for their potential use in tissue engineering and in vivo analyses. Thus, the alternation of S and Q media improves CEC culture. SQQQ sequence demonstrated CEC proliferation and lower the cost implied in SQSQ sequences. We discarded the use of pituitary extract and ROCK inhibitors as essential for CEC proliferation.
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Khalili M, Asadi M, Kahroba H, Soleyman MR, Andre H, Alizadeh E. Corneal endothelium tissue engineering: An evolution of signaling molecules, cells, and scaffolds toward 3D bioprinting and cell sheets. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:3275-3303. [PMID: 33090510 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cornea is an avascular and transparent tissue that focuses light on retina. Cornea is supported by the corneal-endothelial layer through regulation of hydration homeostasis. Restoring vision in patients afflicted with corneal endothelium dysfunction-mediated blindness most often requires corneal transplantation (CT), which faces considerable constrictions due to donor limitations. An emerging alternative to CT is corneal endothelium tissue engineering (CETE), which involves utilizing scaffold-based methods and scaffold-free strategies. The innovative scaffold-free method is cell sheet engineering, which typically generates cell layers surrounded by an intact extracellular matrix, exhibiting tunable release from the stimuli-responsive surface. In some studies, scaffold-based or scaffold-free technologies have been reported to achieve promising outcomes. However, yet some issues exist in translating CETE from bench to clinical practice. In this review, we compare different corneal endothelium regeneration methods and elaborate on the application of multiple cell types (stem cells, corneal endothelial cells, and endothelial precursors), signaling molecules (growth factors, cytokines, chemical compounds, and small RNAs), and natural and synthetic scaffolds for CETE. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of three-dimensional bioprinting strategies and simulation of Descemet's membrane by biomimetic topography. Finally, we dissected the recent advances, applications, and prospects of cell sheet engineering for CETE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Khalili
- Drug Applied Research Center and Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Asadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Houman Kahroba
- Biomedicine Institute, and Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Soleyman
- CinnaGen Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Helder Andre
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Effat Alizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center and Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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9
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Ong HS, Peh G, Neo DJH, Ang HP, Adnan K, Nyein CL, Morales-Wong F, Bhogal M, Kocaba V, Mehta JS. A Novel Approach of Harvesting Viable Single Cells from Donor Corneal Endothelium for Cell-Injection Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061428. [PMID: 32526886 PMCID: PMC7349718 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Donor corneas with low endothelial cell densities (ECD) are deemed unsuitable for corneal endothelial transplantation. This study evaluated a two-step incubation and dissociation harvesting approach to isolate single corneal endothelial cells (CECs) from donor corneas for corneal endothelial cell-injection (CE-CI) therapy. To isolate CECs directly from donor corneas, optimization studies were performed where donor Descemet’s membrane/corneal endothelium (DM/CE) were peeled and incubated in either M4-F99 or M5-Endo media before enzymatic digestion. Morphometric analyses were performed on the isolated single cells. The functional capacities of these cells, isolated using the optimized simple non-cultured endothelial cells (SNEC) harvesting technique, for CE-CI therapy were investigated using a rabbit bullous keratopathy model. The two control groups were the positive controls, where rabbits received cultured CECs, and the negative controls, where rabbits received no CECs. Whilst it took longer for CECs to dislodge as single cells following donor DM/CE incubation in M5-Endo medium, CECs harvested were morphologically more homogenous and smaller compared to CECs obtained from DM/CE incubated in M4-F99 medium (p < 0.05). M5-Endo medium was hence selected as the DM/CE incubation medium prior to enzymatic digestion to harvest CECs for the in vivo cell-injection studies. Following SNEC injection, mean central corneal thickness (CCT) of rabbits increased to 802.9 ± 147.8 μm on day 1, gradually thinned, and remained clear with a CCT of 385.5 ± 38.6 μm at week 3. Recovery of corneas was comparable to rabbits receiving cultured CE-CI (p = 0.40, p = 0.17, and p = 0.08 at weeks 1, 2, and 3, respectively). Corneas that did not receive any cells remained significantly thicker compared to both SNEC injection and cultured CE-CI groups (p < 0.05). This study concluded that direct harvesting of single CECs from donor corneas for SNEC injection allows the utilization of donor corneas unsuitable for conventional endothelial transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hon Shing Ong
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program (ACP), Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- Correspondence: (H.S.O.); (J.S.M.); Tel.: +65-6227-7255 (H.S.O. & J.S.M.); Fax: +65-6227-7290 (H.S.O. & J.S.M.)
| | - Gary Peh
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program (ACP), Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Dawn Jin Hui Neo
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Heng-Pei Ang
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Khadijah Adnan
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Chan Lwin Nyein
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Fernando Morales-Wong
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
| | - Maninder Bhogal
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
- Cornea Unit, Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital, London SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
- Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery, Melles Cornea Clinic, Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam, 3071 AA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jodhbir S. Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore; (G.P.); (D.J.H.N.); (H.-P.A.); (K.A.); (C.L.N.); (F.M.-W.); (M.B.); (V.K.)
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program (ACP), Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS), Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Corneal and External Diseases Department, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
- School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Correspondence: (H.S.O.); (J.S.M.); Tel.: +65-6227-7255 (H.S.O. & J.S.M.); Fax: +65-6227-7290 (H.S.O. & J.S.M.)
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10
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Yam GHF, Seah X, Yusoff NZBM, Setiawan M, Wahlig S, Htoon HM, Peh GSL, Kocaba V, Mehta JS. Characterization of Human Transition Zone Reveals a Putative Progenitor-Enriched Niche of Corneal Endothelium. Cells 2019; 8:cells8101244. [PMID: 31614883 PMCID: PMC6829622 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
: The corneal endothelium regulates corneal hydration to maintain the transparency of cornea. Lacking regenerative capacity, corneal endothelial cell loss due to aging and diseases can lead to corneal edema and vision loss. There is limited information on the existence of corneal endothelial progenitors. We conducted ultrastructural examinations and expression analyses on the human transition zone (TZ) at the posterior limbus of corneal periphery, to elucidate if the TZ harbored progenitor-like cells, and to reveal their niche characteristics. Within the narrow TZ (~190 μm width), the inner TZ-adjacent to the peripheral endothelium (PE)-contained cells expressing stem/progenitor markers (Sox2, Lgr5, CD34, Pitx2, telomerase). They were located on the inner TZ surface and in its underlying stroma. Lgr5 positive cells projected as multicellular clusters into the PE. Under transmission electron microscopy and serial block face-scanning electron microscopy and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction, the terminal margin of Descemet's membrane was inserted beneath the TZ surface, with the distance akin to the inner TZ breadth. Porcine TZ cells were isolated and proliferated into a confluent monolayer and differentiated to cells expressing corneal endothelial markers (ZO1, Na+K+ATPase) on cell surface. In conclusion, we have identified a novel inner TZ containing progenitor-like cells, which could serve the regenerative potential for corneal endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Hin-Fai Yam
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
| | - Xinyi Seah
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
| | | | - Melina Setiawan
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
| | - Stephen Wahlig
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
| | - Hla Myint Htoon
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
- Data Science Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
| | - Gary S L Peh
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 Université, 69622 Villeurbanne, France.
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.
- Eye-Academic Clinical Program, Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Graduate Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore 168751, Singapore.
- School of Material Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore.
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11
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Tissue-derived microparticles reduce inflammation and fibrosis in cornea wounds. Acta Biomater 2019; 85:192-202. [PMID: 30579044 PMCID: PMC9924072 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biological materials derived from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues serve as scaffolds for rebuilding tissues and for improved wound healing. Cornea trauma represents a wound healing challenge as the default repair pathway can result in fibrosis and scar formation that limit vision. Effective treatments are needed to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and retain the tissue's native transparency and vision capacity. Tissue microparticles derived from cornea, cartilage and lymph nodes were processed and screened in vitro for their ability to reduce inflammation in ocular surface cells isolated from the cornea stroma, conjunctiva, and lacrimal gland. Addition of ECM particles to the media reduced expression of inflammatory genes and restored certain tear film protein production in vitro. Particles derived from lymph nodes were then applied to a rabbit lamellar keratectomy corneal injury model. Application of the tissue particles in a fibrin glue carrier decreased expression of inflammatory and fibrotic genes and scar formation as measured through imaging, histology and immunohistochemistry. In sum, immunomodulatory tissue microparticles may provide a new therapeutic tool for reducing inflammation in the cornea and ocular surface and promoting tissue repair. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Damaged cornea will result in scar tissue formation that impedes vision, and new therapies are needed to enhance wound healing in the cornea and to prevent fibrosis. We evaluated the effects of biological scaffolds derived extracellular matrix (ECM) during corneal wound healing. These ECM particles reduced inflammatory gene expression and restored tear film production in vitro, and reduced scar formation and fibrosis genes in the wounded cornea, when applied to in vivo lamellar keratectomy injury model. The immunomodulatory tissue microparticles may provide a new therapeutic tool for reducing inflammation in the cornea and ocular surface and promoting proper tissue repair.
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Spinozzi D, Miron A, Bruinsma M, Dapena I, Lavy I, Binder PS, Rafat M, Oellerich S, Melles GRJ. Evaluation of the Suitability of Biocompatible Carriers as Artificial Transplants Using Cultured Porcine Corneal Endothelial Cells. Curr Eye Res 2018; 44:243-249. [PMID: 30339045 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2018.1536215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose/Aim: Evaluating the suitability of bioengineered collagen sheets and human anterior lens capsules (HALCs) as carriers for cultivated porcine corneal endothelial cells (pCECs) and in vitro assessment of the cell-carrier sheets as tissue-engineered grafts for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). MATERIALS AND METHODS pCECs were isolated, cultured up to P2 and seeded onto LinkCell™ bioengineered matrices of 20 µm (LK20) or 100 µm (LK100) thickness, and on HALC. During expansion, pCEC viability and morphology were assessed by light microscopy. ZO-1 and Na+/K+-ATPase expression was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Biomechanical properties of pCEC-carrier constructs were evaluated by simulating DMEK surgery in vitro using an artificial anterior chamber (AC) and a human donor cornea without Descemet membrane (DM). RESULTS During in vitro expansion, cultured pCECs retained their proliferative capacity, as shown by the positive staining for proliferative marker Ki67, and a high cell viability rate (96 ± 5%). pCECs seeded on all carriers formed a monolayer of hexagonal, tightly packed cells that expressed ZO-1 and Na+/K+-ATPase. During in vitro surgery, pCEC-LK20 and pCEC-LK100 constructs were handled like Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) grafts, i.e. folded like a "taco" for insertion because of challenges related to rolling and sticking of the grafts in the injector. pCEC-HALC constructs behaved similar to the DMEK reference model during implantation and unfolding in the artificial AC, showing good adhesion to the bare stroma. CONCLUSIONS In vitro DMEK surgery showed HALC as the most suitable carrier for cultivated pCECs with good intraoperative graft handling. LK20 carrier showed good biocompatibility, but required a DSEK-adapted surgical protocol. Both carriers might be notional candidates for potential future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Spinozzi
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Alina Miron
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Bruinsma
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Isabel Dapena
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands.,b Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Itay Lavy
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands.,b Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Perry S Binder
- c Gavin Herbert Eye Institute , University of California , Irvine , California , USA
| | - Mehrdad Rafat
- d LinkoCare Life Science AB , Linköping , Sweden.,e Department of Biomedical Engineering , Linköping University , Linköping , Sweden
| | - Silke Oellerich
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit R J Melles
- a Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery , Rotterdam , The Netherlands.,b Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam , Rotterdam , The Netherlands.,f Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
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Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) provide a personalized approach to study conditions and diseases including those of the eye that lack appropriate animal models to facilitate the development of novel therapeutics. Corneal disease is one of the most common causes of blindness. Hence, significant efforts are made to develop novel therapeutic approaches including stem cell-derived strategies to replace the diseased or damaged corneal tissues, thus restoring the vision. The use of adult limbal stem cells in the management of corneal conditions has been clinically successful. However, its limited availability and phenotypic plasticity necessitate the need for alternative stem cell sources to manage corneal conditions. Mesenchymal and embryonic stem cell-based approaches are being explored; nevertheless, their limited differentiation potential and ethical concerns have posed a significant hurdle in its clinical use. hiPSCs have emerged to fill these technical and ethical gaps to render clinical utility. In this review, we discuss and summarize protocols that have been devised so far to direct differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to different corneal cell phenotypes. With the summarization, our review intends to facilitate an understanding which would allow developing efficient and robust protocols to obtain specific corneal cell phenotype from hPSCs for corneal disease modeling and for the clinics to treat corneal diseases and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rohit Shetty
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arkasubhra Ghosh
- GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bengaluru, India
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14
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Umbilical cord stem cells in the treatment of corneal disease. Surv Ophthalmol 2017; 62:803-815. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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15
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Saghizadeh M, Kramerov AA, Svendsen CN, Ljubimov AV. Concise Review: Stem Cells for Corneal Wound Healing. Stem Cells 2017; 35:2105-2114. [PMID: 28748596 PMCID: PMC5637932 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Corneal wound healing is a complex process that occurs in response to various injuries and commonly used refractive surgery. It is a significant clinical problem, which may lead to serious complications due to either incomplete (epithelial) or excessive (stromal) healing. Epithelial stem cells clearly play a role in this process, whereas the contribution of stromal and endothelial progenitors is less well studied. The available evidence on stem cell participation in corneal wound healing is reviewed, together with the data on the use of corneal and non-corneal stem cells to facilitate this process in diseased or postsurgical conditions. Important aspects of corneal stem cell generation from alternative cell sources, including pluripotent stem cells, for possible transplantation upon corneal injuries or in disease conditions are also presented. Stem Cells 2017;35:2105-2114.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center, Regenerative Medicine InstituteLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Andrei A. Kramerov
- Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center, Regenerative Medicine InstituteLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Clive N. Svendsen
- Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center, Regenerative Medicine InstituteLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Alexander V. Ljubimov
- Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center, Regenerative Medicine InstituteLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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16
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Van den Bogerd B, Dhubhghaill SN, Koppen C, Tassignon MJ, Zakaria N. A review of the evidence for in vivo corneal endothelial regeneration. Surv Ophthalmol 2017; 63:149-165. [PMID: 28782549 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human corneal endothelium has long been thought to be a nonmitotic cell layer with no endogenous reparative potential. Pathologies that damage endothelial function result in corneal decompensation and, if untreated, blindness. The mainstay of treatment involves partial or complete corneal replacement, amounting to 40% of all corneal transplants performed worldwide. We summarize the case reports describing complications postoperatively in the form of (sub)total graft detachment and those resulting in postoperative bare stroma. Complications during cataract and glaucoma surgeries leading to an uncovered posterior cornea are also included. We discuss the newer treatment strategies that are alternatives for current Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty and Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty, including partial grafts and stripping of the diseased cell layer. In more than half of the cases reviewed, corneal transparency returned despite incomplete or no corneal endothelial cell transplantation. We question the existing paradigm concerning corneal endothelial wound healing in vivo. The data support further clinical study to determine the safety of simple descemethorexis in central endothelial pathologies, such as Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, where presence of healthy peripheral cells may allow successful corneal recompensation without the need for donor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bert Van den Bogerd
- Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Carina Koppen
- Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Marie-José Tassignon
- Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Nadia Zakaria
- Ophthalmology, Visual Optics and Visual Rehabilitation, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Center for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.
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Bartakova A, Alvarez-Delfin K, Weisman AD, Salero E, Raffa GA, Merkhofer RM, Kunzevitzky NJ, Goldberg JL. Novel Identity and Functional Markers for Human Corneal Endothelial Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:2749-62. [PMID: 27196322 PMCID: PMC4884060 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-18826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) density decreases with age, surgical complications, or disease, leading to vision impairment. Such endothelial dysfunction is an indication for corneal transplantation, although there is a worldwide shortage of transplant-grade tissue. To overcome the current poor donor availability, here we isolate, expand, and characterize HCECs in vitro as a step toward cell therapy. Methods Human corneal endothelial cells were isolated from cadaveric corneas and expanded in vitro. Cell identity was evaluated based on morphology and immunocytochemistry, and gene expression analysis and flow cytometry were used to identify novel HCEC-specific markers. The functional ability of HCEC to form barriers was assessed by transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) assays. Results Cultured HCECs demonstrated canonical morphology for up to four passages and later underwent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EnMT). Quality of donor tissue influenced cell measures in culture including proliferation rate. Cultured HCECs expressed identity markers, and microarray analysis revealed novel endothelial-specific markers that were validated by flow cytometry. Finally, canonical HCECs expressed higher levels of CD56, which correlated with higher TEER than fibroblastic HCECs. Conclusions In vitro expansion of HCECs from cadaveric donor corneas yields functional cells identifiable by morphology and a panel of novel markers. Markers described correlated with function in culture, suggesting a basis for cell therapy for corneal endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Bartakova
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Karen Alvarez-Delfin
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Alejandra D Weisman
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Enrique Salero
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Gabriella A Raffa
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Richard M Merkhofer
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Noelia J Kunzevitzky
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States 2Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States 3Emmecell, K
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States 2Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States 4Byers Eye I
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18
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Rizwan M, Peh GS, Adnan K, Naso SL, Mendez AR, Mehta JS, Yim EKF. In Vitro Topographical Model of Fuchs Dystrophy for Evaluation of Corneal Endothelial Cell Monolayer Formation. Adv Healthc Mater 2016; 5:2896-2910. [PMID: 27701826 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201600848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A common indication for corneal transplantation, which is the most transplanted tissue, is a dysfunctional corneal endothelium due to Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy (FED). FED is diagnosed by the presence of in vivo pathological microtopography on the Descemet membrane, which is called corneal guttata. Minimally invasive corneal endothelial cell regenerative procedures such as endothelial cell injection therapy and Rho kinase inhibitor pharmacotherapy have been proposed as alternatives to conventional corneal transplantation for FED patients. However, the effect of guttata on monolayer reformation following such therapies is unknown and there is no equivalent in vitro or animal model to study monolayer reformation. Using a synthetic guttata FED disease model, the formation of the monolayer is investigated to evaluate the efficacy of both therapies. Results obtained suggest that guttata dimensions, density, and spacing greatly affect the fate of corneal endothelial cells in terms of migratory behavior and monolayer reformation. Densely packed synthetic guttata mimicking late-stage FED hinders monolayer reformation, while synthetic guttata of lower height and density show improved monolayer formation. These results suggest that severity of the FED, as determined by height and density of existing guttata, can potentially attenuate corneal endothelial monolayer formation of corneal cell injection therapy and pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Rizwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; National University of Singapore; Singapore 117583
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering; Agency for Science; Technology and Research (A*STAR); Singapore 138634
| | - Gary S. Peh
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group; Singapore Eye Research Institute; Singapore 169856
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School; Singapore 169857
| | - Khadijah Adnan
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group; Singapore Eye Research Institute; Singapore 169856
| | - Sacha L. Naso
- Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Group; Singapore Eye Research Institute; Singapore 169856
| | - Alon R. Mendez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; National University of Singapore; Singapore 117583
| | - Jodhbir S. Mehta
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School; Singapore 169857
- Singapore National Eye Centre; Singapore 168751
| | - Evelyn K. F. Yim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; National University of Singapore; Singapore 117583
- Department of Surgery; National University of Singapore, Singapore; Mechanobiology Institute; National University of Singapore; Singapore 117411
- Department of Chemical Engineering; University of Waterloo; Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3G1
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19
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Bostan C, Thériault M, Forget KJ, Doyon C, Cameron JD, Proulx S, Brunette I. In Vivo Functionality of a Corneal Endothelium Transplanted by Cell-Injection Therapy in a Feline Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2016; 57:1620-34. [PMID: 27046125 PMCID: PMC4824382 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-17625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the functionality of a corneal endothelium reconstituted by injection of corneal endothelial cells (CEC) in the anterior chamber of a feline model. METHODS We operated the right eyes of 16 animals. Eight underwent central endothelial scraping and injection with 2 × 10(5) (n = 4) or 1 × 10(6) (n = 4) feline CEC supplemented with Y-27632 and labeled with 3,3'-Dioctadecyl-5,5'-Di(4-Sulfophenyl)Oxacarbocyanine (SP-DiOC18[3] or DiOC). After total endothelial scraping, two eyes were injected with 1 × 10(6) labeled CEC and Y-27632. The central (n = 3) or entire (n = 3) endothelium was scraped in six eyes followed by Y-27632 injection without CEC. Subjects were positioned eyes down for 3 hours. Outcomes included graft transparency, pachymetry, CEC morphometry, histology, electron microscopy, and function and wound healing-related protein immunostaining. RESULTS Postoperatively, corneas grafted with 2 × 10(5) CEC and centrally scraped controls displayed the best transparency and pachymetry. Corneas grafted with 1 × 10(6) CEC yielded intermediate results. Entirely scraped controls remained hazy and thick. Histopathology revealed a confluent endothelial monolayer expressing sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase) and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) in corneas grafted with 2 × 10(5) CEC and centrally scraped controls, a nonuniform endothelial multilayer without expression of functional proteins in centrally scraped corneas grafted with 1 × 10(6) CEC, and a nonfunctional fibrotic endothelium in entirely scraped grafts and controls. Expression of DiOC in grafts was scarce. CONCLUSIONS Injected CEC contributed little to the incompletely functional endothelium of grafted corneas. Y-27632 injection without CEC following scraping reconstituted the healthiest endothelium. Further studies investigating the therapeutic effect of Y-27632 alone are needed to validate these conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bostan
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada 2Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mathieu Thériault
- Centre d'organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Québec City, Quebec, Canada, and Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-UL, Axe Médecine régénératrice, Québec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Karolyn J Forget
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christelle Doyon
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada 2Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Douglas Cameron
- Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences and Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Stéphanie Proulx
- Centre d'organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Québec City, Quebec, Canada, and Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-UL, Axe Médecine régénératrice, Québec City, Quebec, Canada 5Department of Ophthalmology and ENT-Head and Neck Surgery, U
| | - Isabelle Brunette
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada 2Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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McCabe KL, Kunzevitzky NJ, Chiswell BP, Xia X, Goldberg JL, Lanza R. Efficient Generation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Corneal Endothelial Cells by Directed Differentiation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145266. [PMID: 26689688 PMCID: PMC4686926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim To generate human embryonic stem cell derived corneal endothelial cells (hESC-CECs) for transplantation in patients with corneal endothelial dystrophies. Materials and Methods Feeder-free hESC-CECs were generated by a directed differentiation protocol. hESC-CECs were characterized by morphology, expression of corneal endothelial markers, and microarray analysis of gene expression. Results hESC-CECs were nearly identical morphologically to primary human corneal endothelial cells, expressed Zona Occludens 1 (ZO-1) and Na+/K+ATPaseα1 (ATPA1) on the apical surface in monolayer culture, and produced the key proteins of Descemet’s membrane, Collagen VIIIα1 and VIIIα2 (COL8A1 and 8A2). Quantitative PCR analysis revealed expression of all corneal endothelial pump transcripts. hESC-CECs were 96% similar to primary human adult CECs by microarray analysis. Conclusion hESC-CECs are morphologically similar, express corneal endothelial cell markers and express a nearly identical complement of genes compared to human adult corneal endothelial cells. hESC-CECs may be a suitable alternative to donor-derived corneal endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L. McCabe
- Ocata Therapeutics, Marlborough, MA, 01752, United States of America
| | - Noelia J. Kunzevitzky
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America
- Emmecell, Key Biscayne, FL, 33149, United States of America
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States of America
| | - Brian P. Chiswell
- Ocata Therapeutics, Marlborough, MA, 01752, United States of America
| | - Xin Xia
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey L. Goldberg
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, United States of America
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, United States of America
| | - Robert Lanza
- Ocata Therapeutics, Marlborough, MA, 01752, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Corneal wound healing is a complex process involving cell death, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Many similarities are observed in the healing processes of corneal epithelial, stromal and endothelial cells, as well as cell-specific differences. Corneal epithelial healing largely depends on limbal stem cells and remodeling of the basement membrane. During stromal healing, keratocytes get transformed to motile and contractile myofibroblasts largely due to activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) system. Endothelial cells heal mostly by migration and spreading, with cell proliferation playing a secondary role. In the last decade, many aspects of wound healing process in different parts of the cornea have been elucidated, and some new therapeutic approaches have emerged. The concept of limbal stem cells received rigorous experimental corroboration, with new markers uncovered and new treatment options including gene and microRNA therapy tested in experimental systems. Transplantation of limbal stem cell-enriched cultures for efficient re-epithelialization in stem cell deficiency and corneal injuries has become reality in clinical setting. Mediators and course of events during stromal healing have been detailed, and new treatment regimens including gene (decorin) and stem cell therapy for excessive healing have been designed. This is a very important advance given the popularity of various refractive surgeries entailing stromal wound healing. Successful surgical ways of replacing the diseased endothelium have been clinically tested, and new approaches to accelerate endothelial healing and suppress endothelial-mesenchymal transformation have been proposed including Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor eye drops and gene therapy to activate TGF-β inhibitor SMAD7. Promising new technologies with potential for corneal wound healing manipulation including microRNA, induced pluripotent stem cells to generate corneal epithelium, and nanocarriers for corneal drug delivery are discussed. Attention is also paid to problems in wound healing understanding and treatment, such as lack of specific epithelial stem cell markers, reliable identification of stem cells, efficient prevention of haze and stromal scar formation, lack of data on wound regulating microRNAs in keratocytes and endothelial cells, as well as virtual lack of targeted systems for drug and gene delivery to select corneal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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