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Liu H, Lu S, Chen M, Gao N, Yang Y, Hu H, Ren Q, Liu X, Chen H, Zhu Q, Li S, Su J. Towards Stem/Progenitor Cell-Based Therapies for Retinal Degeneration. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024:10.1007/s12015-024-10740-4. [PMID: 38809490 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10740-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration (RD) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and includes conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and Stargardt's disease (STGD). These diseases result in the permanent loss of vision due to the progressive and irreversible degeneration of retinal cells, including photoreceptors (PR) and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The adult human retina has limited abilities to regenerate and repair itself, making it challenging to achieve complete self-replenishment and functional repair of retinal cells. Currently, there is no effective clinical treatment for RD. Stem cell therapy, which involves transplanting exogenous stem cells such as retinal progenitor cells (RPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), or activating endogenous stem cells like Müller Glia (MG) cells, holds great promise for regenerating and repairing retinal cells in the treatment of RD. Several preclinical and clinical studies have shown the potential of stem cell-based therapies for RD. However, the clinical translation of these therapies for the reconstruction of substantial vision still faces significant challenges. This review provides a comprehensive overview of stem/progenitor cell-based therapy strategies for RD, summarizes recent advances in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and highlights the major challenges in using stem/progenitor cell-based therapies for RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Shuaiyan Lu
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Ming Chen
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Na Gao
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yuhe Yang
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Huijuan Hu
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Qing Ren
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Hongxu Chen
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Qunyan Zhu
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325011, China
| | - Shasha Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, 325001, China.
| | - Jianzhong Su
- National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325011, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, 325001, China.
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Ho MT, Kawai K, Abdo D, Comanita L, Ortin-Martinez A, Ueno Y, Tsao E, Rastgar-Moghadam A, Xue C, Cui H, Wallace VA, Shoichet MS. Transplanted human photoreceptors transfer cytoplasmic material but not to the recipient mouse retina. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:79. [PMID: 38486269 PMCID: PMC10941468 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03679-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discovery of material transfer between transplanted and host mouse photoreceptors has expanded the possibilities for utilizing transplanted photoreceptors as potential vehicles for delivering therapeutic cargo. However, previous research has not directly explored the capacity for human photoreceptors to engage in material transfer, as human photoreceptor transplantation has primarily been investigated in rodent models of late-stage retinal disease, which lack host photoreceptors. METHODS In this study, we transplanted human stem-cell derived photoreceptors purified from human retinal organoids at different ontological ages (weeks 10, 14, or 20) into mouse models with intact photoreceptors and assessed transfer of human proteins and organelles to mouse photoreceptors. RESULTS Unexpectedly, regardless of donor age or mouse recipient background, human photoreceptors did not transfer material in the mouse retina, though a rare subset of donor cells (< 5%) integrated into the mouse photoreceptor cell layer. To investigate the possibility that a species barrier impeded transfer, we used a flow cytometric assay to examine material transfer in vitro. Interestingly, dissociated human photoreceptors transferred fluorescent protein with each other in vitro, yet no transfer was detected in co-cultures of human and mouse photoreceptors, suggesting that material transfer is species specific. CONCLUSIONS While xenograft models are not a tractable system to study material transfer of human photoreceptors, these findings demonstrate that human retinal organoid-derived photoreceptors are competent donors for material transfer and thus may be useful to treat retinal degenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret T Ho
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Kotoe Kawai
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto, 619-0216, Japan
| | - Dhana Abdo
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lacrimioara Comanita
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Arturo Ortin-Martinez
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Yui Ueno
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto, 619-0216, Japan
| | - Emily Tsao
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Azam Rastgar-Moghadam
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chang Xue
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
| | - Hong Cui
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Iwama Y, Nomaru H, Masuda T, Kawamura Y, Matsumura M, Murata Y, Teranishi K, Nishida K, Ota S, Mandai M, Takahashi M. Label-free enrichment of human pluripotent stem cell-derived early retinal progenitor cells for cell-based regenerative therapies. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:254-269. [PMID: 38181785 PMCID: PMC10874851 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cell-based therapy for retinal degenerative diseases is a promising approach to restoring visual function. A clinical study using retinal organoid (RO) sheets was recently conducted in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. However, the graft preparation currently requires advanced skills to identify and excise suitable segments from the transplantable area of the limited number of suitable ROs. This remains a challenge for consistent clinical implementations. Herein, we enabled the enrichment of wild-type (non-reporter) retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) from dissociated ROs using a label-free ghost cytometry (LF-GC)-based sorting system, where a machine-based classifier was trained in advance with another RPC reporter line. The sorted cells reproducibly formed retinal spheroids large enough for transplantation and developed mature photoreceptors in the retinal degeneration rats. This method of enriching early RPCs with no specific surface antigens and without any reporters or chemical labeling is promising for robust preparation of graft tissues during cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuaki Iwama
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Cell and Gene Therapy in Ophthalmology Laboratory, BZP, RIKEN, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | | | - Tomohiro Masuda
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Cell and Gene Therapy in Ophthalmology Laboratory, BZP, RIKEN, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.
| | | | - Michiru Matsumura
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | | | | | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Sadao Ota
- ThinkCyte K.K., Tokyo 113-8654, Japan; Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8904, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan.
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
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Bai Y, He H, Ren B, Ren J, Zou T, Chen X, Liu Y. Sstr2 Defines the Cone Differentiation-Competent Late-Stage Retinal Progenitor Cells in the Developing Mouse Retina. Stem Cells Transl Med 2024; 13:83-99. [PMID: 37935630 PMCID: PMC10785222 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cone cell death is a characteristic shared by various retinal degenerative disorders, such as cone-rod dystrophy, Stargardt disease, achromatopsia, and retinitis pigmentosa. This leads to conditions like color blindness and permanently impaired visual acuity. Stem cell therapy focused on photoreceptor replacement holds promise for addressing these conditions. However, identifying surface markers that aid in enriching retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) capable of differentiating into cones remains a complex task. In this study, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing to scrutinize the transcriptome of developing retinas in C57BL/6J mice. This revealed the distinctive expression of somatostatin receptor 2 (Sstr2), a surface protein, in late-stage RPCs exhibiting the potential for photoreceptor differentiation. In vivo lineage tracing experiments verified that Sstr2+ cells within the late embryonic retina gave rise to cones, amacrine and horizontal cells during the developmental process. Furthermore, Sstr2+ cells that were isolated from the late embryonic mouse retina displayed RPC markers and exhibited the capability to differentiate into cones in vitro. Upon subretinal transplantation into both wild-type and retinal degeneration 10 (rd10) mice, Sstr2+ cells survived and expressed cone-specific markers. This study underscores the ability of Sstr2 to enrich late-stage RPCs primed for cone differentiation to a large extent. It proposes the utility of Sstr2 as a biomarker for RPCs capable of generating cones for transplantation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Bai
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han He
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bangqi Ren
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayun Ren
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting Zou
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
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5
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Liang Y, Sun X, Duan C, Tang S, Chen J. Application of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells and organoids in inherited retinal diseases. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:340. [PMID: 38012786 PMCID: PMC10683306 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03564-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) can induce severe sight-threatening retinal degeneration and impose a considerable economic burden on patients and society, making efforts to cure blindness imperative. Transgenic animals mimicking human genetic diseases have long been used as a primary research tool to decipher the underlying pathogenesis, but there are still some obvious limitations. As an alternative strategy, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), particularly three-dimensional (3D) organoid technology, are considered a promising platform for modeling different forms of IRDs, including retinitis pigmentosa, Leber congenital amaurosis, X-linked recessive retinoschisis, Batten disease, achromatopsia, and best vitelliform macular dystrophy. Here, this paper focuses on the status of patient-derived iPSCs and organoids in IRDs in recent years concerning disease modeling and therapeutic exploration, along with potential challenges for translating laboratory research to clinical application. Finally, the importance of human iPSCs and organoids in combination with emerging technologies such as multi-omics integration analysis, 3D bioprinting, or microfluidic chip platform are highlighted. Patient-derived retinal organoids may be a preferred choice for more accurately uncovering the mechanisms of human retinal diseases and will contribute to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Liang
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, 410015, China
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Xihao Sun
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, 410015, China
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Chunwen Duan
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, 410015, China
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Changsha, 410015, China
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, 410015, China.
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Changsha, 410015, China.
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, 410015, China.
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Changsha, 410015, China.
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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6
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Zhang KY, Nagalingam A, Mary S, Aguzzi EA, Li W, Chetla N, Smith B, Paulaitis ME, Edwards MM, Quigley HA, Zack DJ, Johnson TV. Rare intercellular material transfer as a confound to interpreting inner retinal neuronal transplantation following internal limiting membrane disruption. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:2203-2221. [PMID: 37802075 PMCID: PMC10679651 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercellular cytoplasmic material transfer (MT) occurs between transplanted and developing photoreceptors and ambiguates cell origin identification in developmental, transdifferentiation, and transplantation experiments. Whether MT is a photoreceptor-specific phenomenon is unclear. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) replacement, through transdifferentiation or transplantation, holds potential for restoring vision in optic neuropathies. During careful assessment for MT following human stem cell-derived RGC transplantation into mice, we identified RGC xenografts occasionally giving rise to labeling of donor-derived cytoplasmic, nuclear, and mitochondrial proteins within recipient Müller glia. Critically, nuclear organization is distinct between human and murine retinal neurons, which enables unequivocal discrimination of donor from host cells. MT was greatly facilitated by internal limiting membrane disruption, which also augments retinal engraftment following transplantation. Our findings demonstrate that retinal MT is not unique to photoreceptors and challenge the isolated use of species-specific immunofluorescent markers for xenotransplant identification. Assessment for MT is critical when analyzing neuronal replacement interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y Zhang
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arumugam Nagalingam
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stella Mary
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Erika A Aguzzi
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Weifeng Li
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nitin Chetla
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Barbara Smith
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael E Paulaitis
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Malia M Edwards
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Harry A Quigley
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Donald J Zack
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Departments of Neuroscience, Molecular Biology and Genetics, and Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thomas V Johnson
- Glaucoma Center for Excellence, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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7
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Carido M, Völkner M, Steinheuer LM, Wagner F, Kurth T, Dumler N, Ulusoy S, Wieneke S, Norniella AV, Golfieri C, Khattak S, Schönfelder B, Scamozzi M, Zoschke K, Canzler S, Hackermüller J, Ader M, Karl MO. Reliability of human retina organoid generation from hiPSC-derived neuroepithelial cysts. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1166641. [PMID: 37868194 PMCID: PMC10587494 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1166641] [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: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The possible applications for human retinal organoids (HROs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) rely on the robustness and transferability of the methodology for their generation. Standardized strategies and parameters to effectively assess, compare, and optimize organoid protocols are starting to be established, but are not yet complete. To advance this, we explored the efficiency and reliability of a differentiation method, called CYST protocol, that facilitates retina generation by forming neuroepithelial cysts from hiPSC clusters. Here, we tested seven different hiPSC lines which reproducibly generated HROs. Histological and ultrastructural analyses indicate that HRO differentiation and maturation are regulated. The different hiPSC lines appeared to be a larger source of variance than experimental rounds. Although previous reports have shown that HROs in several other protocols contain a rather low number of cones, HROs from the CYST protocol are consistently richer in cones and with a comparable ratio of cones, rods, and Müller glia. To provide further insight into HRO cell composition, we studied single cell RNA sequencing data and applied CaSTLe, a transfer learning approach. Additionally, we devised a potential strategy to systematically evaluate different organoid protocols side-by-side through parallel differentiation from the same hiPSC batches: In an explorative study, the CYST protocol was compared to a conceptually different protocol based on the formation of cell aggregates from single hiPSCs. Comparing four hiPSC lines showed that both protocols reproduced key characteristics of retinal epithelial structure and cell composition, but the CYST protocol provided a higher HRO yield. So far, our data suggest that CYST-derived HROs remained stable up to at least day 200, while single hiPSC-derived HROs showed spontaneous pathologic changes by day 200. Overall, our data provide insights into the efficiency, reproducibility, and stability of the CYST protocol for generating HROs, which will be useful for further optimizing organoid systems, as well as for basic and translational research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalena Carido
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Manuela Völkner
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lisa Maria Steinheuer
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Felix Wagner
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Natalie Dumler
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Selen Ulusoy
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stephanie Wieneke
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Cristina Golfieri
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Shahryar Khattak
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Stem Cell Engineering Facility, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bruno Schönfelder
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maria Scamozzi
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Katja Zoschke
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sebastian Canzler
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jörg Hackermüller
- Department Computational Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mike O Karl
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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8
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Kramer RH. Suppressing Retinal Remodeling to Mitigate Vision Loss in Photoreceptor Degenerative Disorders. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2023; 9:131-153. [PMID: 37713276 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-112122-020957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, robbing the visual system of light-triggered signals necessary for sight. However, changes in the retina do not stop with the photoreceptors. A stereotypical set of morphological and physiological changes, known as remodeling, occur in downstream retinal neurons. Some aspects of remodeling are homeostatic, with structural or functional changes compensating for partial loss of visual inputs. However, other aspects are nonhomeostatic, corrupting retinal information processing to obscure vision mediated naturally by surviving photoreceptors or artificially by vision-restoration technologies. In this review, I consider the mechanism of remodeling and its consequences for residual and restored visual function; discuss the role of retinoic acid, a critical molecular trigger of detrimental remodeling; and discuss strategies for suppressing retinoic acid biosynthesis or signaling as therapeutic possibilities for mitigating vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard H Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, USA;
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9
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Wong NK, Yip SP, Huang CL. Establishing Functional Retina in a Dish: Progress and Promises of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Retinal Neuron Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13652. [PMID: 37686457 PMCID: PMC10487913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The human eye plays a critical role in vision perception, but various retinal degenerative diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can lead to vision loss or blindness. Although progress has been made in understanding retinal development and in clinical research, current treatments remain inadequate for curing or reversing these degenerative conditions. Animal models have limited relevance to humans, and obtaining human eye tissue samples is challenging due to ethical and legal considerations. Consequently, researchers have turned to stem cell-based approaches, specifically induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), to generate distinct retinal cell populations and develop cell replacement therapies. iPSCs offer a novel platform for studying the key stages of human retinogenesis and disease-specific mechanisms. Stem cell technology has facilitated the production of diverse retinal cell types, including retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and photoreceptors, and the development of retinal organoids has emerged as a valuable in vitro tool for investigating retinal neuron differentiation and modeling retinal diseases. This review focuses on the protocols, culture conditions, and techniques employed in differentiating retinal neurons from iPSCs. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of molecular and functional validation of the differentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nonthaphat Kent Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shea Ping Yip
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chien-Ling Huang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
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10
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Yang S, Hu H, Kung H, Zou R, Dai Y, Hu Y, Wang T, Lv T, Yu J, Li F. Organoids: The current status and biomedical applications. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e274. [PMID: 37215622 PMCID: PMC10192887 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Organoids are three-dimensional (3D) miniaturized versions of organs or tissues that are derived from cells with stem potential and can self-organize and differentiate into 3D cell masses, recapitulating the morphology and functions of their in vivo counterparts. Organoid culture is an emerging 3D culture technology, and organoids derived from various organs and tissues, such as the brain, lung, heart, liver, and kidney, have been generated. Compared with traditional bidimensional culture, organoid culture systems have the unique advantage of conserving parental gene expression and mutation characteristics, as well as long-term maintenance of the function and biological characteristics of the parental cells in vitro. All these features of organoids open up new opportunities for drug discovery, large-scale drug screening, and precision medicine. Another major application of organoids is disease modeling, and especially various hereditary diseases that are difficult to model in vitro have been modeled with organoids by combining genome editing technologies. Herein, we introduce the development and current advances in the organoid technology field. We focus on the applications of organoids in basic biology and clinical research, and also highlight their limitations and future perspectives. We hope that this review can provide a valuable reference for the developments and applications of organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yang
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Haijie Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Hengchung Kung
- Krieger School of Arts and SciencesJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Ruiqi Zou
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Yushi Dai
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Yafei Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Tianrun Lv
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
| | - Jun Yu
- Departments of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Departments of OncologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Fuyu Li
- Division of Biliary Tract SurgeryDepartment of General SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuan ProvinceChina
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11
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Chew LA, Iannaccone A. Gene-agnostic approaches to treating inherited retinal degenerations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1177838. [PMID: 37123404 PMCID: PMC10133473 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1177838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Most patients with inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) have been waiting for treatments that are "just around the corner" for decades, with only a handful of seminal breakthroughs happening in recent years. Highlighting the difficulties in the quest for curative therapeutics, Luxturna required 16 years of development before finally obtaining United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and its international equivalents. IRDs are both genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous. While this diversity offers many opportunities for gene-by-gene precision medicine-based approaches, it also poses a significant challenge. For this reason, alternative (or parallel) strategies to identify more comprehensive, across-the-board therapeutics for the genetically and phenotypically diverse IRD patient population are very appealing. Even when gene-specific approaches may be available and become approved for use, many patients may have reached a disease stage whereby these approaches may no longer be viable. Thus, alternate visual preservation or restoration therapeutic approaches are needed at these stages. In this review, we underscore several gene-agnostic approaches that are being developed as therapeutics for IRDs. From retinal supplementation to stem cell transplantation, optogenetic therapy and retinal prosthetics, these strategies would bypass at least in part the need for treating every individual gene or mutation or provide an invaluable complement to them. By considering the diverse patient population and treatment strategies suited for different stages and patterns of retinal degeneration, gene agnostic approaches are very well poised to impact favorably outcomes and prognosis for IRD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A. Chew
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Alessandro Iannaccone
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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12
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Barravecchia I, De Cesari C, Guadagni V, Signore G, Bertolini E, Giannelli SG, Scebba F, Martini D, Pè ME, Broccoli V, Andreazzoli M, Angeloni D, Demontis GC. Increasing cell culture density during a developmental window prevents fated rod precursors derailment toward hybrid rod-glia cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6025. [PMID: 37055439 PMCID: PMC10101963 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32571-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In proliferating multipotent retinal progenitors, transcription factors dynamics set the fate of postmitotic daughter cells, but postmitotic cell fate plasticity driven by extrinsic factors remains controversial. Transcriptome analysis reveals the concurrent expression by postmitotic rod precursors of genes critical for the Müller glia cell fate, which are rarely generated from terminally-dividing progenitors as a pair with rod precursors. By combining gene expression and functional characterisation in single cultured rod precursors, we identified a time-restricted window where increasing cell culture density switches off the expression of genes critical for Müller glial cells. Intriguingly, rod precursors in low cell culture density maintain the expression of genes of rod and glial cell fate and develop a mixed rod/Muller glial cells electrophysiological fingerprint, revealing rods derailment toward a hybrid rod-glial phenotype. The notion of cell culture density as an extrinsic factor critical for preventing rod-fated cells diversion toward a hybrid cell state may explain the occurrence of hybrid rod/MG cells in the adult retina and provide a strategy to improve engraftment yield in regenerative approaches to retinal degenerative disease by stabilising the fate of grafted rod precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Barravecchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano, 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
- Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara De Cesari
- Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Signore
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, San Giuliano Terme, Italy
| | - Edoardo Bertolini
- Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Vania Broccoli
- San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council of Italy, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Gian Carlo Demontis
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano, 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
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13
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Progress of iPS cell-based transplantation therapy for retinal diseases. Jpn J Ophthalmol 2023; 67:119-128. [PMID: 36626080 DOI: 10.1007/s10384-022-00974-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of induced Pluripotent Stem) (iPS) cells has instigated innovation in various fields, including ophthalmology. Cell therapy has shown tremendous progress in translational research on retinal diseases, including the first-in-human transplantation of autologous iPS cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa (RP) has also been developed. Retinal organoid and photoreceptor cell transplantation has been shown to incorporate into the degenerated host retina, forming synapses with host neurons and resulting in functional recovery. Based on preclinical data, first-in-human transplantation of iPS cell-derived retinal sheets has been conducted. In this review, we summarize the current progress in iPS cell-based retinal cell transplantation research for retinal diseases, addressing some remaining challenges and future prospects.
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14
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Tay HG, Andre H, Chrysostomou V, Adusumalli S, Guo J, Ren X, Tan WS, Tor JE, Moreno-Moral A, Plastino F, Bartuma H, Cai Z, Tun SBB, Barathi VA, Siew Wei GT, Grenci G, Chong LY, Holmgren A, Kvanta A, Crowston JG, Petretto E, Tryggvason K. Photoreceptor laminin drives differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells to photoreceptor progenitors that partially restore retina function. Mol Ther 2023; 31:825-846. [PMID: 36638800 PMCID: PMC10014235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Blindness caused by advanced stages of inherited retinal diseases and age-related macular degeneration are characterized by photoreceptor loss. Cell therapy involving replacement with functional photoreceptor-like cells generated from human pluripotent stem cells holds great promise. Here, we generated a human recombinant retina-specific laminin isoform, LN523, and demonstrated the role in promoting the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into photoreceptor progenitors. This chemically defined and xenogen-free method enables reproducible production of photoreceptor progenitors within 32 days. We observed that the transplantation into rd10 mice were able to protect the host photoreceptor outer nuclear layer (ONL) up to 2 weeks post transplantation as measured by full-field electroretinogram. At 4 weeks post transplantation, the engrafted cells were found to survive, mature, and associate with the host's rod bipolar cells. Visual behavioral assessment using the water maze swimming test demonstrated visual improvement in the cell-transplanted rodents. At 20 weeks post transplantation, the maturing engrafted cells were able to replace the loss of host ONL by extensive association with host bipolar cells and synapses. Post-transplanted rabbit model also provided congruent evidence for synaptic connectivity with the degenerated host retina. The results may pave the way for the development of stem cell-based therapeutics for retina degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwee Goon Tay
- Centre for Vision Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.
| | - Helder Andre
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vicki Chrysostomou
- Centre for Vision Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | | | - Jing Guo
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Xiaoyuan Ren
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wei Sheng Tan
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Jia En Tor
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Aida Moreno-Moral
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Flavia Plastino
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hammurabi Bartuma
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zuhua Cai
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Sai Bo Bo Tun
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Veluchamy Amutha Barathi
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gavin Tan Siew Wei
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Gianluca Grenci
- Mechanobiology Institute (MBI) and Department of Biomedical Engineering, NUS, Singapore
| | - Li Yen Chong
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Arne Holmgren
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St. Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonathan Guy Crowston
- Centre for Vision Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Enrico Petretto
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Karl Tryggvason
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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15
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Paliwal H, Prajapati BG, Srichana T, Singh S, Patel RJ. Novel Approaches in the Drug Development and Delivery Systems for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020568. [PMID: 36836923 PMCID: PMC9960288 DOI: 10.3390/life13020568] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of patients with ocular disorders has increased due to contributing factors such as aging populations, environmental changes, smoking, genetic abnormalities, etc. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the common ocular disorders which may advance to loss of vision in severe cases. The advanced form of AMD is classified into two types, dry (non-exudative) and wet (exudative) AMD. Although several therapeutic approaches are explored for the management of AMD, no approved therapy can substantially slow down the progression of dry AMD into the later stages. The focus of researchers in recent times has been engaged in developing targeted therapeutic products to halt the progression and maintain or improve vision in individuals diagnosed with AMD. The delivery of anti-VEGF agents using intravitreal therapy has found some success in managing AMD, and novel formulation approaches have been introduced in various studies to potentiate the efficacy. Some of the novel approaches, such as hydrogel, microspheres, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, implants, etc. have been discussed. Apart from this, subretinal, suprachoroidal, and port delivery systems have also been investigated for biologics and gene therapies. The unmet potential of approved therapeutic products has contributed to several patent applications in recent years. This review outlines the current treatment options, outcomes of recent research studies, and patent details around the novel drug delivery approach for the treatment of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Paliwal
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
| | - Bhupendra Gopalbhai Prajapati
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Mehsana 384012, Gujarat, India
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +91-9429225025
| | - Teerapol Srichana
- Drug Delivery System Excellence Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
| | - Sudarshan Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Ravish J. Patel
- Ramanbhai Patel College of Pharmacy (RPCP), Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand 388421, Gujarat, India
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16
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Watari K, Yamasaki S, Tu HY, Shikamura M, Kamei T, Adachi H, Tochitani T, Kita Y, Nakamura A, Ueyama K, Ono K, Morinaga C, Matsuyama T, Sho J, Nakamura M, Fujiwara M, Hori Y, Tanabe A, Hirai R, Terai O, Ohno O, Ohara H, Hayama T, Ikeda A, Nukaya D, Matsushita K, Takahashi M, Kishino A, Kimura T, Kawamata S, Mandai M, Kuwahara A. Self-organization, quality control, and preclinical studies of human iPSC-derived retinal sheets for tissue-transplantation therapy. Commun Biol 2023; 6:164. [PMID: 36765170 PMCID: PMC9918541 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04543-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional retinal organoids (3D-retinas) are a promising graft source for transplantation therapy. We previously developed self-organizing culture for 3D-retina generation from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). Here we present a quality control method and preclinical studies for tissue-sheet transplantation. Self-organizing hPSCs differentiated into both retinal and off-target tissues. Gene expression analyses identified the major off-target tissues as eye-related, cortex-like, and spinal cord-like tissues. For quality control, we developed a qPCR-based test in which each hPSC-derived neuroepithelium was dissected into two tissue-sheets: inner-central sheet for transplantation and outer-peripheral sheet for qPCR to ensure retinal tissue selection. During qPCR, tissue-sheets were stored for 3-4 days using a newly developed preservation method. In a rat tumorigenicity study, no transplant-related adverse events were observed. In retinal degeneration model rats, retinal transplants differentiated into mature photoreceptors and exhibited light responses in electrophysiology assays. These results demonstrate our rationale toward self-organizing retinal sheet transplantation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Watari
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Suguru Yamasaki
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan ,grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Hung-Ya Tu
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Masayuki Shikamura
- grid.417982.10000 0004 0623 246XResearch & Development Center for Cell Therapy, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kamei
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Hideki Adachi
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XPreclinical Research Unit, Research Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Konohana-ku, Osaka 554-0022 Japan
| | - Tomoaki Tochitani
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XPreclinical Research Unit, Research Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Konohana-ku, Osaka 554-0022 Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kita
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Aya Nakamura
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XTechnology Research & Development Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Kazuki Ueyama
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XTechnology Research & Development Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Keiichi Ono
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XTechnology Research & Development Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Chikako Morinaga
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan ,grid.7597.c0000000094465255RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, RIKEN Cluster for Science, Technology and Innovation Hub., Saitama, 351-0198 Japan
| | - Take Matsuyama
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Junki Sho
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Miyuki Nakamura
- grid.417982.10000 0004 0623 246XResearch & Development Center for Cell Therapy, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Masayo Fujiwara
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Yoriko Hori
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Anna Tanabe
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Rina Hirai
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Orie Terai
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Osamu Ohno
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Hidetaka Ohara
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Tetsuya Hayama
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Atsushi Ikeda
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Daiki Nukaya
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Keizo Matsushita
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan ,grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Kishino
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Toru Kimura
- grid.417741.00000 0004 1797 168XRegenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Shin Kawamata
- grid.417982.10000 0004 0623 246XResearch & Development Center for Cell Therapy, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- grid.508743.dLaboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Japan ,grid.7597.c0000000094465255RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, RIKEN Cluster for Science, Technology and Innovation Hub., Saitama, 351-0198 Japan
| | - Atsushi Kuwahara
- Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan.
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17
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Photoreceptor Cell Replacement Using Pluripotent Stem Cells: Current Knowledge and Remaining Questions. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2023; 13:cshperspect.a041309. [PMID: 36617642 PMCID: PMC9899646 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is an increasing global burden without cure for the majority of patients. Once retinal cells have degenerated, vision is permanently lost. Different strategies have been developed in recent years to prevent retinal degeneration or to restore sight (e.g., gene therapy, cell therapy, and electronic implants). Herein, we present current treatment strategies with a focus on cell therapy for photoreceptor replacement using human pluripotent stem cells. We will describe the state of the art and discuss obstacles and limitations observed in preclinical animal models as well as future directions to improve graft integration and functionality.
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18
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Abstract
Inherited ocular diseases comprise a heterogeneous group of rare and complex diseases, including inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) and inherited optic neuropathies. Recent success in adeno-associated virus-based gene therapy, voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna®) for RPE65-related IRDs, has heralded rapid evolution in gene therapy platform technologies and strategies, from gene augmentation to RNA editing, as well as gene agnostic approaches such as optogenetics. This review discusses the fundamentals underlying the mode of inheritance, natural history studies and clinical trial outcomes, as well as current and emerging therapies covering gene therapy strategies, cell-based therapies and bionic vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwei Wuen Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore,Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore,Correspondence: Dr Hwei Wuen Chan, Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology (Eye), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block, Level 7, 119228, Singapore. E-mail:
| | - Jaslyn Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Bart Leroy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium,Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium,Division of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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19
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Re-formation of synaptic connectivity in dissociated human stem cell-derived retinal organoid cultures. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2213418120. [PMID: 36598946 PMCID: PMC9926218 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2213418120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived retinal organoids (ROs) can efficiently and reproducibly generate retinal neurons that have potential for use in cell replacement strategies [Capowski et al., Development 146, dev171686 (2019)]. The ability of these lab-grown retinal neurons to form new synaptic connections after dissociation from ROs is key to building confidence in their capacity to restore visual function. However, direct evidence of reestablishment of retinal neuron connectivity via synaptic tracing has not been reported to date. The present study employs an in vitro, rabies virus-based, monosynaptic retrograde tracing assay [Wickersham et al., Neuron 53, 639-647 (2007); Sun et al., Mol. Neurodegener. 14, 8 (2019)] to identify de novo synaptic connections among early retinal cell types following RO dissociation. A reproducible, high-throughput approach for labeling and quantifying traced retinal cell types was developed. Photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells-the primary neurons of interest for retinal cell replacement-were the two major contributing populations among the traced presynaptic cells. This system provides a platform for assessing synaptic connections in cultured retinal neurons and sets the stage for future cell replacement studies aimed at characterizing or enhancing synaptogenesis. Used in this manner, in vitro synaptic tracing is envisioned to complement traditional preclinical animal model testing, which is limited by evolutionary incompatibilities in synaptic machinery inherent to human xenografts.
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20
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Kim HJ, O’Hara-Wright M, Kim D, Loi TH, Lim BY, Jamieson RV, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Yang P. Comprehensive characterization of fetal and mature retinal cell identity to assess the fidelity of retinal organoids. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:175-189. [PMID: 36630901 PMCID: PMC9860116 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.12.002] [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: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Characterizing cell identity in complex tissues such as the human retina is essential for studying its development and disease. While retinal organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells have been widely used to model development and disease of the human retina, there is a lack of studies that have systematically evaluated the molecular and cellular fidelity of the organoids derived from various culture protocols in recapitulating their in vivo counterpart. To this end, we performed an extensive meta-atlas characterization of cellular identities of the human eye, covering a wide range of developmental stages. The resulting map uncovered previously unknown biomarkers of major retinal cell types and those associated with cell-type-specific maturation. Using our retinal-cell-identity map from the fetal and adult tissues, we systematically assessed the fidelity of the retinal organoids in mimicking the human eye, enabling us to comprehensively benchmark the current protocols for retinal organoid generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Jieun Kim
- Computational Systems Biology Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia,School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Michelle O’Hara-Wright
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia,Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Daniel Kim
- Computational Systems Biology Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia,School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - To Ha Loi
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia,Eye Genetics Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Benjamin Y. Lim
- Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Robyn V. Jamieson
- Specialty of Genomic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia,Eye Genetics Research Unit, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; Stem Cell Medicine Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
| | - Pengyi Yang
- Computational Systems Biology Group, Children's Medical Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
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21
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John MC, Quinn J, Hu ML, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Xue K. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches for inherited retinal degenerations. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1068185. [PMID: 36710928 PMCID: PMC9881597 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1068185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are associated with mutations in over 250 genes and represent a major cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. While gene augmentation or gene editing therapies could address the underlying genetic mutations in a small subset of patients, their utility remains limited by the great genetic heterogeneity of IRDs and the costs of developing individualised therapies. Gene-agnostic therapeutic approaches target common pathogenic pathways that drive retinal degeneration or provide functional rescue of vision independent of the genetic cause, thus offering potential clinical benefits to all IRD patients. Here, we review the key gene-agnostic approaches, including retinal cell reprogramming and replacement, neurotrophic support, immune modulation and optogenetics. The relative benefits and limitations of these strategies and the timing of clinical interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly C. John
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joel Quinn
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Monica L. Hu
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
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22
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Pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoid/cells for retinal regeneration therapies: A review. Regen Ther 2023; 22:59-67. [PMID: 36712956 PMCID: PMC9841126 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, many researchers have attempted to restore vision via transplantation of retina/retinal cells in eyes with retinal degeneration. The advent of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and retinal organoid induction technologies has boosted research on retinal regeneration therapy. Although the recognition of functional integration of graft photoreceptor cells in the host retina from 2006 has been disputed a decade later by the newly evidenced phenomenon denoted as "material transfer," several reports support possible reconstruction of the host-graft network in the retinas of both end-stage degeneration and in progressing degeneration cases. Based on proof of concept (POC) studies in animal models, a clinical study was conducted in Kobe, Japan in 2020 and showed the feasibility of cell-based therapy using iPSC retinal organoid technology. Although the graft potency of human embryonic stem (ES)/iPS cell-derived retinal organoid/retinal cells has been suggested by previous studies, much is still unknown regarding host capability, that is, how long-standing human degenerating retinas are capable of rewiring with transplanted cells. This review summarizes past POC studies on photoreceptor replacement therapy and introduces some new challenges to maximize the possible efficacy in future human clinical studies of regenerative therapy.
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23
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Cheng L, Kuehn MH. Human Retinal Organoids in Therapeutic Discovery: A Review of Applications. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2023; 281:157-187. [PMID: 37608005 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_691] [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] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs)- and induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs)-derived retinal organoids (ROs) are three-dimensional laminar structures that recapitulate the developmental trajectory of the human retina. The ROs provide a fascinating tool for basic science research, eye disease modeling, treatment development, and biobanking for tissue/cell replacement. Here we review the previous studies that paved the way for RO technology, the two most widely accepted, standardized protocols to generate ROs, and the utilization of ROs in medical discovery. This review is conducted from the perspective of basic science research, transplantation for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and therapeutic development for drug screening and gene therapy. ROs have opened avenues for new technologies such as assembloids, coculture with other organoids, vasculature or immune cells, microfluidic devices (organ-on-chip), extracellular vesicles for drug delivery, biomaterial engineering, advanced imaging techniques, and artificial intelligence (AI). Nevertheless, some shortcomings of ROs currently limit their translation for medical applications and pose a challenge for future research. Despite these limitations, ROs are a powerful tool for functional studies and therapeutic strategies for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA.
- Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Markus H Kuehn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Institute for Vision Research, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
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24
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Carleton M, Oesch NW. Differences in the spatial fidelity of evoked and spontaneous signals in the degenerating retina. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1040090. [DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1040090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision restoration strategies aim to reestablish vision by replacing the function of lost photoreceptors with optoelectronic hardware or through gene therapy. One complication to these approaches is that retinal circuitry undergoes remodeling after photoreceptor loss. Circuit remodeling following perturbation is ubiquitous in the nervous system and understanding these changes is crucial for treating neurodegeneration. Spontaneous oscillations that arise during retinal degeneration have been well-studied, however, other changes in the spatiotemporal processing of evoked and spontaneous activity have received less attention. Here we use subretinal electrical stimulation to measure the spatial and temporal spread of both spontaneous and evoked activity during retinal degeneration. We found that electrical stimulation synchronizes spontaneous oscillatory activity, over space and through time, thus leading to increased correlations in ganglion cell activity. Intriguingly, we found that spatial selectivity was maintained in rd10 retina for evoked responses, with spatial receptive fields comparable to wt retina. These findings indicate that different biophysical mechanisms are involved in mediating feed forward excitation, and the lateral spread of spontaneous activity in the rd10 retina, lending support toward the possibility of high-resolution vision restoration.
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25
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Uyama H, Tu HY, Sugita S, Yamasaki S, Kurimoto Y, Matsuyama T, Shiina T, Watanabe T, Takahashi M, Mandai M. Competency of iPSC-derived retinas in MHC-mismatched transplantation in non-human primates. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:2392-2408. [PMID: 36306783 PMCID: PMC9669501 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of embryonic/induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retina (ESC/iPSC-retina) restores host retinal ganglion cell light responses in end-stage retinal degeneration models with host-graft synapse formation. We studied the immunological features of iPSC-retina transplantation using major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-homozygote monkey iPSC-retinas in monkeys with laser-induced retinal degeneration in MHC-matched and -mismatched transplantation. MHC-mismatched transplantation without immune suppression showed no evident clinical signs of rejection and histologically showed graft maturation without lymphocytic infiltration, although immunological tests using peripheral blood monocytes suggested subclinical rejection in three of four MHC-mismatched monkeys. Although extensive photoreceptor rosette formation was observed on histology, evaluation of functional integration using mouse models such as mouse ESC-retina (C57BL/6) transplanted into rd1(C3H/HeJ, MHC-mismatched model) elicited light responses in the host retinal ganglion cells after transplantation but with less responsiveness than that in rd1-2J mice (C57BL/6, MHC-matched model). These results suggest the reasonable use of ESC/iPSC-retina in MHC-mismatched transplantation, albeit with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Uyama
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Hung-Ya Tu
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Sunao Sugita
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Vision Care, Inc., Kobe Eye Center 5F, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | - Suguru Yamasaki
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Yasuo Kurimoto
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | - Take Matsuyama
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | - Takashi Shiina
- Department of Molecular Life Science, Division of Basic Medical Science and Molecular Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1193, Japan
| | - Takehito Watanabe
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, 852-8501, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Vision Care, Inc., Kobe Eye Center 5F, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, 2-1-8 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan,Corresponding author
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26
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Sanjurjo-Soriano C, Erkilic N, Damodar K, Boukhaddaoui H, Diakatou M, Garita-Hernandez M, Mamaeva D, Dubois G, Jazouli Z, Jimenez-Medina C, Goureau O, Meunier I, Kalatzis V. Retinoic acid delays initial photoreceptor differentiation and results in a highly structured mature retinal organoid. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:478. [PMID: 36114559 PMCID: PMC9482314 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03146-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids are a valuable tool for disease modelling and therapeutic development. Many efforts have been made over the last decade to optimise protocols for the generation of organoids that correctly mimic the human retina. Most protocols use common media supplements; however, protocol-dependent variability impacts data interpretation. To date, the lack of a systematic comparison of a given protocol with or without supplements makes it difficult to determine how they influence the differentiation process and morphology of the retinal organoids. Methods A 2D-3D differentiation method was used to generate retinal organoids, which were cultured with or without the most commonly used media supplements, notably retinoic acid. Gene expression was assayed using qPCR analysis, protein expression using immunofluorescence studies, ultrastructure using electron microscopy and 3D morphology using confocal and biphoton microscopy of whole organoids. Results Retinoic acid delayed the initial stages of differentiation by modulating photoreceptor gene expression. At later stages, the presence of retinoic acid led to the generation of mature retinal organoids with a well-structured stratified photoreceptor layer containing a predominant rod population. By contrast, the absence of retinoic acid led to cone-rich organoids with a less organised and non-stratified photoreceptor layer. Conclusions This study proves the importance of supplemented media for culturing retinal organoids. More importantly, we demonstrate for the first time that the role of retinoic acid goes beyond inducing a rod cell fate to enhancing the organisation of the photoreceptor layer of the mature organoid. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03146-x.
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27
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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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28
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Xue Y, Lin B, Chen JT, Tang WC, Browne AW, Seiler MJ. The Prospects for Retinal Organoids in Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2022; 11:314-327. [PMID: 36041146 PMCID: PMC9966053 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration (RD) is a significant cause of incurable blindness worldwide. Photoreceptors and retinal pigmented epithelium are irreversibly damaged in advanced RD. Functional replacement of photoreceptors and/or retinal pigmented epithelium cells is a promising approach to restoring vision. This paper reviews the current status and explores future prospects of the transplantation therapy provided by pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids (ROs). This review summarizes the status of rodent RD disease models and discusses RO culture and analytical tools to evaluate RO quality and function. Finally, we review and discuss the studies in which RO-derived cells or sheets were transplanted. In conclusion, methods to derive ROs from pluripotent stem cells have significantly improved and become more efficient in recent years. Meanwhile, more novel technologies are applied to characterize and validate RO quality. However, opportunity remains to optimize tissue differentiation protocols and achieve better RO reproducibility. In order to screen high-quality ROs for downstream applications, approaches such as noninvasive and label-free imaging and electrophysiological functional testing are promising and worth further investigation. Lastly, transplanted RO-derived tissues have allowed improvements in visual function in several RD models, showing promises for clinical applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuntian Xue
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Bin Lin
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Jacqueline T. Chen
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - William C. Tang
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Andrew W. Browne
- Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Magdalene J. Seiler
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA
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29
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Lendahl U. 100 plus years of stem cell research-20 years of ISSCR. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1248-1267. [PMID: 35705014 PMCID: PMC9213821 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2022. This review looks back at some of the key developments in stem cell research as well as the evolution of the ISSCR as part of that field. Important discoveries from stem cell research are described, and how the improved understanding of basic stem cell biology translates into new clinical therapies and insights into disease mechanisms is discussed. Finally, the birth and growth of ISSCR into a leading stem cell society and a respected voice for ethics, advocacy, education and policy in stem cell research are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Lendahl
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
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30
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Van Gelder RN, Chiang MF, Dyer MA, Greenwell TN, Levin LA, Wong RO, Svendsen CN. Regenerative and restorative medicine for eye disease. Nat Med 2022; 28:1149-1156. [PMID: 35715505 PMCID: PMC10718186 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-022-01862-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Causes of blindness differ across the globe; in higher-income countries, most blindness results from the degeneration of specific classes of cells in the retina, including retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), photoreceptors, and retinal ganglion cells. Advances over the past decade in retinal regenerative medicine have allowed each of these cell types to be produced ex vivo from progenitor stem cells. Here, we review progress in applying these technologies to cell replacement - with the goal of vision restoration in degenerative disease. We discuss the landscape of human clinical trials for RPE transplantation and advanced preclinical studies for other cell types. We also review progress toward in situ repair of retinal degeneration using endogenous progenitor cells. Finally, we provide a high-level overview of progress toward prosthetic ocular vision restoration, including advanced photovoltaic devices, opsin-based gene therapy, and small-molecule photoswitches. Progress in each of these domains is at or near the human clinical-trial stage, bringing the audacious goal of vision restoration within sight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell N Van Gelder
- Karalis-Johnson Retina Center, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Roger and Angie Karalis Johnson Retina Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Michael F Chiang
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael A Dyer
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Thomas N Greenwell
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Leonard A Levin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rachel O Wong
- Karalis-Johnson Retina Center, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Clive N Svendsen
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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31
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Rempel SK, Welch MJ, Ludwig AL, Phillips MJ, Kancherla Y, Zack DJ, Gamm DM, Gómez TM. Human photoreceptors switch from autonomous axon extension to cell-mediated process pulling during synaptic marker redistribution. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110827. [PMID: 35584680 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs) are the primary visual sensory cells, and their loss leads to blindness that is currently incurable. Although cell replacement therapy holds promise, success is hindered by our limited understanding of PR axon growth during development and regeneration. Here, we generate retinal organoids from human pluripotent stem cells to study the mechanisms of PR process extension. We find that early-born PRs exhibit autonomous axon extension from dynamic terminals. However, as PRs age from 40 to 80 days of differentiation, they lose dynamic terminals on 2D substrata and in 3D retinal organoids. Interestingly, PRs without motile terminals are still capable of extending axons but only by process stretching via attachment to motile non-PR cells. Immobile PR terminals of late-born PRs have fewer and less organized actin filaments but more synaptic proteins compared with early-born PR terminals. These findings may help inform the development of PR transplantation therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Rempel
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Madalynn J Welch
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Allison L Ludwig
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - M Joseph Phillips
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Yochana Kancherla
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Donald J Zack
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - David M Gamm
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Timothy M Gómez
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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32
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Gasparini SJ, Tessmer K, Reh M, Wieneke S, Carido M, Völkner M, Borsch O, Swiersy A, Zuzic M, Goureau O, Kurth T, Busskamp V, Zeck G, Karl MO, Ader M. Transplanted human cones incorporate and function in a murine cone degeneration model. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:154619. [PMID: 35482419 PMCID: PMC9197520 DOI: 10.1172/jci154619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Once human photoreceptors die, they do not regenerate, thus, photoreceptor transplantation has emerged as a potential treatment approach for blinding diseases. Improvements in transplant organization, donor cell maturation, and synaptic connectivity to the host will be critical in advancing this technology for use in clinical practice. Unlike the unstructured grafts of prior cell-suspension transplantations into end-stage degeneration models, we describe the extensive incorporation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) retinal organoid–derived human photoreceptors into mice with cone dysfunction. This incorporative phenotype was validated in both cone-only as well as pan-photoreceptor transplantations. Rather than forming a glial barrier, Müller cells extended throughout the graft, even forming a series of adherens junctions between mouse and human cells, reminiscent of an outer limiting membrane. Donor-host interaction appeared to promote polarization as well as the development of morphological features critical for light detection, namely the formation of inner and well-stacked outer segments oriented toward the retinal pigment epithelium. Putative synapse formation and graft function were evident at both structural and electrophysiological levels. Overall, these results show that human photoreceptors interacted readily with a partially degenerated retina. Moreover, incorporation into the host retina appeared to be beneficial to graft maturation, polarization, and function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Tessmer
- Ader Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Miriam Reh
- Department of Neurophysics, NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Wieneke
- Karl Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Madalena Carido
- Ader Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Manuela Völkner
- Karl Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver Borsch
- Ader Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anka Swiersy
- Busskamp Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marta Zuzic
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Volker Busskamp
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Günther Zeck
- Department of Neurophysics, NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Mike O Karl
- Karl Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- Ader Lab, Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Rashidi H, Leong YC, Venner K, Pramod H, Fei QZ, Jones OJR, Moulding D, Sowden JC. Generation of 3D retinal tissue from human pluripotent stem cells using a directed small molecule-based serum-free microwell platform. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6646. [PMID: 35459774 PMCID: PMC9033780 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10540-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of blindness worldwide with debilitating life-long consequences for the affected individuals. Cell therapy is considered a potential future clinical intervention to restore and preserve sight by replacing lost photoreceptors and/or retinal pigment epithelium. Development of protocols to generate retinal tissue from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC), reliably and at scale, can provide a platform to generate photoreceptors for cell therapy and to model retinal disease in vitro. Here, we describe an improved differentiation platform to generate retinal organoids from hPSC at scale and free from time-consuming manual microdissection steps. The scale up was achieved using an agarose mould platform enabling generation of uniform self-assembled 3D spheres from dissociated hPSC in microwells. Subsequent retinal differentiation was efficiently achieved via a stepwise differentiation protocol using a number of small molecules. To facilitate clinical translation, xeno-free approaches were developed by substituting Matrigel™ and foetal bovine serum with recombinant laminin and human platelet lysate, respectively. Generated retinal organoids exhibited important features reminiscent of retinal tissue including correct site-specific localisation of proteins involved in phototransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Rashidi
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Yeh Chwan Leong
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Kerrie Venner
- UCL Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hema Pramod
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Qi-Zhen Fei
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Owen J R Jones
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Dale Moulding
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Jane C Sowden
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, Birth Defects Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
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34
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Maeda T, Mandai M, Sugita S, Kime C, Takahashi M. Strategies of pluripotent stem cell-based therapy for retinal degeneration: update and challenges. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:388-404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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35
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Garcia-Ayuso D, Di Pierdomenico J, García-Bernal D, Vidal-Sanz M, Villegas-Pérez MP. Bone marrow-derived mononuclear stem cells in the treatment of retinal degenerations. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:1937-1944. [PMID: 35142670 PMCID: PMC8848608 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.335692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases affecting the outer retina in its many forms (inherited, acquired or induced) are characterized by photoreceptor loss, and represent currently a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the world. At present, there are very few treatments capable of preventing, recovering or reversing photoreceptor degeneration or the secondary retinal remodeling, which follows photoreceptor loss and can also cause the death of other retinal cells. Thus, these diseases are nowadays one of the greatest challenges in the field of ophthalmological research. Bone marrow derived-mononuclear stem cell transplantation has shown promising results for the treatment of photoreceptor degenerations. These cells may have the potential to slow down photoreceptor loss, and therefore should be applied in the early stages of photoreceptor degenerations. Furthermore, because of their possible paracrine effects, they may have a wide range of clinical applications, since they can potentially impact on several retinal cell types at once and photoreceptor degenerations can involve different cells and/or begin in one cell type and then affect adjacent cells. The intraocular injection of bone marrow derived-mononuclear stem cells also enhances the outcomes of other treatments aimed to protect photoreceptors. Therefore, it is likely that future investigations may combine bone marrow derived-mononuclear stem cell therapy with other systemic or intraocular treatments to obtain greater therapeutic effects in degenerative retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Garcia-Ayuso
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de Ciencias de la salud; Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Johnny Di Pierdomenico
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de Ciencias de la salud; Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - David García-Bernal
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca); Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de Ciencias de la salud; Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - María P Villegas-Pérez
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de Ciencias de la salud; Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Virgen de la Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
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36
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Yamasaki S, Tu HY, Matsuyama T, Horiuchi M, Hashiguchi T, Sho J, Kuwahara A, Kishino A, Kimura T, Takahashi M, Mandai M. A Genetic modification that reduces ON-bipolar cells in hESC-derived retinas enhances functional integration after transplantation. iScience 2022; 25:103657. [PMID: 35024589 PMCID: PMC8733179 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived retinal sheet transplanted in vivo can form structured photoreceptor layers, contact with host bipolar cells, and transmit light signals to host retinas. However, a major concern is the presence of graft bipolar cells that may impede host-graft interaction. In this study, we used human ESC-retinas with the deletion of Islet-1 (ISL1) gene to achieve the reduced graft ON-bipolar cells after xenotransplantation into end-stage retinal degeneration model rats. Compared with wild-type graft, ISL1−/− hESC-retinas showed better host-graft contact, with indication of host-graft synapse formation and significant restoration of light responsiveness in host ganglion cells. We further analyzed to find out that improved functional integration of ISL1−/− hESC-retinas seemed attributed by a better host-graft contact and a better preservation of host inner retina. ISL1−/− hESC-retinas are promising for the efficient reconstruction of a degenerated retinal network in future clinical application. Deletion of ISL1 in hESC-retinas resulted in a reduced number of ON-bipolar cells Photoreceptors in ISL1−/− hESC-retinas achieved functional maturation in vivo ISL1−/− hESC-retinas showed better host-graft contact with putative synapses ISL1−/− hESC-retinas better restored RGC light responsiveness in degenerated retina
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Affiliation(s)
- Suguru Yamasaki
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Hung-Ya Tu
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Take Matsuyama
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Matsuri Horiuchi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Tomoyo Hashiguchi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Junki Sho
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kuwahara
- Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Kishino
- Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Toru Kimura
- Regenerative & Cellular Medicine Kobe Center, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Masayo Takahashi
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Michiko Mandai
- Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Eye Hospital, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms (DMP), RIKEN Cluster for Science, Technology and Innovation Hub., Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
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Rizzolo LJ, Nasonkin IO, Adelman RA. OUP accepted manuscript. Stem Cells Transl Med 2022; 11:269-281. [PMID: 35356975 PMCID: PMC8968686 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells grown on a scaffold, an RPE patch, have potential to ameliorate visual impairment in a limited number of retinal degenerative conditions. This tissue-replacement therapy is suited for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and related diseases. RPE cells must be transplanted before the disease reaches a point of no return, represented by the loss of photoreceptors. Photoreceptors are specialized, terminally differentiated neurosensory cells that must interact with RPE’s apical processes to be functional. Human photoreceptors are not known to regenerate. On the RPE’s basal side, the RPE transplant must induce the reformation of the choriocapillaris, thereby re-establishing the outer blood-retinal barrier. Because the scaffold is positioned between the RPE and choriocapillaris, it should ideally degrade and be replaced by the natural extracellular matrix that separates these tissues. Besides biodegradable, the scaffolds need to be nontoxic, thin enough to not affect the focal length of the eye, strong enough to survive the transplant procedure, yet flexible enough to conform to the curvature of the retina. The challenge is patients with progressing AMD treasure their remaining vision and fear that a risky surgical procedure will further degrade their vision. Accordingly, clinical trials only treat eyes with severe impairment that have few photoreceptors to interact with the transplanted patch. Although safety has been demonstrated, the cell-replacement mechanism and efficacy remain difficult to validate. This review covers the structure of the retina, the pathology of AMD, the limitations of cell therapy approaches, and the recent progress in developing retinal therapies using biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence J Rizzolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Corresponding author: Lawrence J. Rizzolo, PhD, 24 Long Hill Farm, Guilford, CT 06437, USA. Tel: 203-676-5583;
| | - Igor O Nasonkin
- Phythera Therapeutics LLC, San Leandro, CA, USA
- Igor O. Nasonkin, Phythera Therapeutics, 3021 Teagarden street, San Leandro, CA 92612, USA. Telephone: 510-205-7828;
| | - Ron A Adelman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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38
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Christelle M, Lise M, Ben M'Barek K. Challenges of cell therapies for retinal diseases. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 166:49-77. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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39
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Isla-Magrané H, Veiga A, García-Arumí J, Duarri A. Multiocular organoids from human induced pluripotent stem cells displayed retinal, corneal, and retinal pigment epithelium lineages. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:581. [PMID: 34809716 PMCID: PMC8607587 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02651-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, great efforts have been made to design protocols for obtaining ocular cells from human stem cells to model diseases or for regenerative purposes. Current protocols generally focus on isolating retinal cells, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), or corneal cells and fail to recapitulate the complexity of the tissue during eye development. Here, the generation of more advanced in vitro multiocular organoids from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is demonstrated. METHODS A 2-step method was established to first obtain self-organized multizone ocular progenitor cells (mzOPCs) from 2D hiPSC cultures within three weeks. Then, after the cells were manually isolated and grown in suspension, 3D multiocular organoids were generated to model important cellular features of developing eyes. RESULTS In the 2D culture, self-formed mzOPCs spanned the neuroectoderm, surface ectoderm, neural crest, and RPE, mimicking early stages of eye development. After lifting, mzOPCs developed into different 3D multiocular organoids composed of multiple cell lineages including RPE, retina, and cornea, and interactions between the different cell types and regions of the eye system were observed. Within these organoids, the retinal regions exhibited correct layering and contained all major retinal cell subtypes as well as retinal morphological cues, whereas the corneal regions closely resembled the transparent ocular-surface epithelium and contained of corneal, limbal, and conjunctival epithelial cells. The arrangement of RPE cells also formed organoids composed of polarized pigmented epithelial cells at the surface that were completely filled with collagen matrix. CONCLUSIONS This approach clearly demonstrated the advantages of the combined 2D-3D construction tissue model as it provided a more ocular native-like cellular environment than that of previous models. In this complex preparations, multiocular organoids may be used to model the crosstalk between different cell types in eye development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Isla-Magrané
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Veiga
- Regenerative Medicine Program IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José García-Arumí
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Anna Duarri
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain.
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40
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Kalargyrou AA, Basche M, Hare A, West EL, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Pearson RA. Nanotube-like processes facilitate material transfer between photoreceptors. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e53732. [PMID: 34494703 PMCID: PMC8567251 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal communication is typically mediated via synapses and gap junctions. New forms of intercellular communication, including nanotubes (NTs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs), have been described for non-neuronal cells, but their role in neuronal communication is not known. Recently, transfer of cytoplasmic material between donor and host neurons ("material transfer") was shown to occur after photoreceptor transplantation. The cellular mechanism(s) underlying this surprising finding are unknown. Here, using transplantation, primary neuronal cultures and the generation of chimeric retinae, we show for the first time that mammalian photoreceptor neurons can form open-end NT-like processes. These processes permit the transfer of cytoplasmic and membrane-bound molecules in culture and after transplantation and can mediate gain-of-function in the acceptor cells. Rarely, organelles were also observed to transfer. Strikingly, use of chimeric retinae revealed that material transfer can occur between photoreceptors in the intact adult retina. Conversely, while photoreceptors are capable of releasing EVs, at least in culture, these are taken up by glia and not by retinal neurons. Our findings provide the first evidence of functional NT-like processes forming between sensory neurons in culture and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini A Kalargyrou
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Mark Basche
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Aura Hare
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Emma L West
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Alexander J Smith
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Robin R Ali
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
- Kellogg Eye CenterUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
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41
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Genovese F, Reisert J, Kefalov VJ. Sensory Transduction in Photoreceptors and Olfactory Sensory Neurons: Common Features and Distinct Characteristics. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:761416. [PMID: 34690705 PMCID: PMC8531253 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.761416] [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: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decades have seen tremendous progress in our understanding of the function of photoreceptors and olfactory sensory neurons, uncovering the mechanisms that determine their properties and, ultimately, our ability to see and smell. This progress has been driven to a large degree by the powerful combination of physiological experimental tools and genetic manipulations, which has enabled us to identify the main molecular players in the transduction cascades of these sensory neurons, how their properties affect the detection and discrimination of stimuli, and how diseases affect our senses of vision and smell. This review summarizes some of the common and unique features of photoreceptors and olfactory sensory neurons that make these cells so exciting to study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vladimir J Kefalov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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42
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Martinez Velazquez LA, Ballios BG. The Next Generation of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics for Inherited Retinal Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111542. [PMID: 34768969 PMCID: PMC8583900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) are a diverse group of conditions that are often characterized by the loss of photoreceptors and blindness. Recent innovations in molecular biology and genomics have allowed us to identify the causative defects behind these dystrophies and to design therapeutics that target specific mechanisms of retinal disease. Recently, the FDA approved the first in vivo gene therapy for one of these hereditary blinding conditions. Current clinical trials are exploring new therapies that could provide treatment for a growing number of retinal dystrophies. While the field has had early success with gene augmentation strategies for treating retinal disease based on loss-of-function mutations, many novel approaches hold the promise of offering therapies that span the full spectrum of causative mutations and mechanisms. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the approaches currently in development including a discussion of retinal neuroprotection, gene therapies (gene augmentation, gene editing, RNA modification, optogenetics), and regenerative stem or precursor cell-based therapies. Our review focuses on technologies that are being developed for clinical translation or are in active clinical trials and discusses the advantages and limitations for each approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian G. Ballios
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada
- Correspondence:
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43
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Thomas BB, Lin B, Martinez-Camarillo JC, Zhu D, McLelland BT, Nistor G, Keirstead HS, Humayun MS, Seiler MJ. Co-grafts of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived Retina Organoids and Retinal Pigment Epithelium for Retinal Reconstruction in Immunodeficient Retinal Degenerate Royal College of Surgeons Rats. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:752958. [PMID: 34764853 PMCID: PMC8576198 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.752958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
End-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are two major retinal degenerative (RD) conditions that result in irreversible vision loss. Permanent eye damage can also occur in battlefields or due to accidents. This suggests there is an unmet need for developing effective strategies for treating permanent retinal damages. In previous studies, co-grafted sheets of fetal retina with its retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) have demonstrated vision improvement in rat retinal disease models and in patients, but this has not yet been attempted with stem-cell derived tissue. Here we demonstrate a cellular therapy for irreversible retinal eye injuries using a "total retina patch" consisting of retinal photoreceptor progenitor sheets and healthy RPE cells on an artificial Bruch's membrane (BM). For this, retina organoids (ROs) (cultured in suspension) and polarized RPE sheets (cultured on an ultrathin parylene substrate) were made into a co-graft using bio-adhesives [gelatin, growth factor-reduced matrigel, and medium viscosity (MVG) alginate]. In vivo transplantation experiments were conducted in immunodeficient Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats at advanced stages of retinal degeneration. Structural reconstruction of the severely damaged retina was observed based on histological assessments and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. Visual functional assessments were conducted by optokinetic behavioral testing and superior colliculus electrophysiology. Long-term survival of the co-graft in the rat subretinal space and improvement in visual function were observed. Immunohistochemistry showed that co-grafts grew, generated new photoreceptors and developed neuronal processes that were integrated into the host retina. This novel approach can be considered as a new therapy for complete replacement of a degenerated retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biju B. Thomas
- Department of Ophthalmology, USC Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bin Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Juan Carlos Martinez-Camarillo
- Department of Ophthalmology, USC Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Danhong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, USC Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Bryce T. McLelland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Mark S. Humayun
- Department of Ophthalmology, USC Roski Eye Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- USC Ginsburg Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Magdalene J. Seiler
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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44
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Too LK, Simunovic MP. Retinal Stem/Progenitor Cells Derived From Adult Müller Glia for the Treatment of Retinal Degeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:749131. [PMID: 34660607 PMCID: PMC8511496 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.749131] [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: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, progress in our understanding of glial function has been revolutionary. Within the retina, a subset of glial cells termed the “Müller glia (MG),” have been demonstrated to play key roles in retinal homeostasis, structure and metabolism. Additionally, MG have also been shown to possess the regenerative capacity that varies across species. In teleost fish, MG respond to injury by reprogramming into stem-like cells capable of regenerating lost tissue. The expression of stem/progenitor cell markers has been demonstrated broadly in mammalian MG, including human MG, but their in vivo regenerative capacity appears evolutionarily limited. Advances in stem cell therapy have progressively elucidated critical mechanisms underlying innate MG reprogramming in teleost fish, which have shown promising results when applied to rodents. Furthermore, when cultured ex vivo, MG from mammals can differentiate into several retina cell types. In this review, we will explore the reparative and regenerative potential of MG in cellular therapy approaches, and outline our current understanding of embryonic retinal development, the stem-cell potential of MG in adult vertebrate retina (including human), and microenvironmental cues that guide MG reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lay Khoon Too
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew P Simunovic
- Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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45
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Andreazzoli M, Barravecchia I, De Cesari C, Angeloni D, Demontis GC. Inducible Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model and Treat Inherited Degenerative Diseases of the Outer Retina: 3D-Organoids Limitations and Bioengineering Solutions. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092489. [PMID: 34572137 PMCID: PMC8471616 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRD) affecting either photoreceptors or pigment epithelial cells cause progressive visual loss and severe disability, up to complete blindness. Retinal organoids (ROs) technologies opened up the development of human inducible pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) for disease modeling and replacement therapies. However, hiPSC-derived ROs applications to IRD presently display limited maturation and functionality, with most photoreceptors lacking well-developed outer segments (OS) and light responsiveness comparable to their adult retinal counterparts. In this review, we address for the first time the microenvironment where OS mature, i.e., the subretinal space (SRS), and discuss SRS role in photoreceptors metabolic reprogramming required for OS generation. We also address bioengineering issues to improve culture systems proficiency to promote OS maturation in hiPSC-derived ROs. This issue is crucial, as satisfying the demanding metabolic needs of photoreceptors may unleash hiPSC-derived ROs full potential for disease modeling, drug development, and replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivana Barravecchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | | | - Debora Angeloni
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Gian Carlo Demontis
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (G.C.D.)
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46
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Ludwig AL, Gamm DM. Outer Retinal Cell Replacement: Putting the Pieces Together. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:15. [PMID: 34724034 PMCID: PMC8572485 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.10.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases (RDDs) affecting photoreceptors (PRs) are one of the most prevalent sources of incurable blindness worldwide. Due to a lack of endogenous repair mechanisms, functional cell replacement of PRs and/or retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells are among the most anticipated approaches for restoring vision in advanced RDD. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technologies have accelerated development of outer retinal cell therapies as they provide a theoretically unlimited source of donor cells. Human PSC-RPE replacement therapies have progressed rapidly, with several completed and ongoing clinical trials. Although potentially more promising, hPSC-PR replacement therapies are still in their infancy. A first-in-human trial of hPSC-derived neuroretinal transplantation has recently begun, but a number of questions regarding survival, reproducibility, functional integration, and mechanism of action remain. The discovery of biomaterial transfer between donor and PR cells has highlighted the need for rigorous safety and efficacy studies of PR replacement. In this review, we briefly discuss the history of neuroretinal and PR cell transplantation to identify remaining challenges and outline a stepwise approach to address specific pieces of the outer retinal cell replacement puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L. Ludwig
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David M. Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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47
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Genetics, pathogenesis and therapeutic developments for Usher syndrome type 2. Hum Genet 2021; 141:737-758. [PMID: 34331125 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02324-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Usher syndrome (USH) is a rare, autosomal recessively inherited disorder resulting in a combination of sensorineural hearing loss and a progressive loss of vision resulting from retinitis pigmentosa (RP), occasionally accompanied by an altered vestibular function. More and more evidence is building up indicating that also sleep deprivation, olfactory dysfunction, deficits in tactile perception and reduced sperm motility are part of the disease etiology. USH can be clinically classified into three different types, of which Usher syndrome type 2 (USH2) is the most prevalent. In this review, we, therefore, assess the genetic and clinical aspects, available models and therapeutic developments for USH2. Mutations in USH2A, ADGRV1 and WHRN have been described to be responsible for USH2, with USH2A being the most frequently mutated USH-associated gene, explaining 50% of all cases. The proteins encoded by the USH2 genes together function in a dynamic protein complex that, among others, is found at the photoreceptor periciliary membrane and at the base of the hair bundles of inner ear hair cells. To unravel the pathogenic mechanisms underlying USH2, patient-derived cellular models and animal models including mouse, zebrafish and drosophila, have been generated that all in part mimic the USH phenotype. Multiple cellular and genetic therapeutic approaches are currently under development for USH2, mainly focused on preserving or partially restoring the visual function of which one is already in the clinical phase. These developments are opening a new gate towards a possible treatment for USH2 patients.
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48
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Wagstaff EL, Heredero Berzal A, Boon CJF, Quinn PMJ, ten Asbroek ALMA, Bergen AA. The Role of Small Molecules and Their Effect on the Molecular Mechanisms of Early Retinal Organoid Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7081. [PMID: 34209272 PMCID: PMC8268497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Early in vivo embryonic retinal development is a well-documented and evolutionary conserved process. The specification towards eye development is temporally controlled by consecutive activation or inhibition of multiple key signaling pathways, such as the Wnt and hedgehog signaling pathways. Recently, with the use of retinal organoids, researchers aim to manipulate these pathways to achieve better human representative models for retinal development and disease. To achieve this, a plethora of different small molecules and signaling factors have been used at various time points and concentrations in retinal organoid differentiations, with varying success. Additions differ from protocol to protocol, but their usefulness or efficiency has not yet been systematically reviewed. Interestingly, many of these small molecules affect the same and/or multiple pathways, leading to reduced reproducibility and high variability between studies. In this review, we make an inventory of the key signaling pathways involved in early retinogenesis and their effect on the development of the early retina in vitro. Further, we provide a comprehensive overview of the small molecules and signaling factors that are added to retinal organoid differentiation protocols, documenting the molecular and functional effects of these additions. Lastly, we comparatively evaluate several of these factors using our established retinal organoid methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie L. Wagstaff
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam (UvA), 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Andrea Heredero Berzal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam (UvA), 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.H.B.); (C.J.F.B.)
| | - Camiel J. F. Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam (UvA), 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.H.B.); (C.J.F.B.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter M. J. Quinn
- Jonas Children’s Vision Care and Bernard & Shirlee Brown Glaucoma Laboratory, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Departments of Ophthalmology, Pathology & Cell Biology, Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center—New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032, USA;
| | | | - Arthur A. Bergen
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam (UvA), 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam (UvA), 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.H.B.); (C.J.F.B.)
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN-KNAW), 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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