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Zhou X, Zhao L, Wang C, Sun W, Jia B, Li D, Fu J. Diverse functions and pathogenetic role of Crumbs in retinopathy. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:290. [PMID: 38802833 PMCID: PMC11129452 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01673-z] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The Crumbs protein (CRB) family plays a crucial role in maintaining the apical-basal polarity and integrity of embryonic epithelia. The family comprises different isoforms in different animals and possesses diverse structural, localization, and functional characteristics. Mutations in the human CRB1 or CRB2 gene may lead to a broad spectrum of retinal dystrophies. Various CRB-associated experimental models have recently provided mechanistic insights into human CRB-associated retinopathies. The knowledge obtained from these models corroborates the importance of CRB in retinal development and maintenance. Therefore, complete elucidation of these models can provide excellent therapeutic prospects for human CRB-associated retinopathies. In this review, we summarize the current animal models and human-derived models of different CRB family members and describe the main characteristics of their retinal phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Liangliang Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Chenguang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Wei Sun
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Bo Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Jinling Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China.
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Zhang R, Sun J, Xie Y, Zhu W, Tao M, Chen Y, Xie W, Bade R, Jiang S, Liu X, Shao G, Pan W, Zhou C, Jia X. Mutant kri1l causes abnormal retinal development via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:251. [PMID: 38789412 PMCID: PMC11126728 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02022-2] [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] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Damage to the ribosome or an imbalance in protein biosynthesis can lead to some human diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and other eye diseases. Here, we reported that the kri1l gene was responsible for retinal development. The kri1l gene encodes an essential component of the rRNA small subunit processome. The retinal structure was disrupted in kri1l mutants, which resulted in small eyes. The boundaries of each layer of cells in the retina were blurred, and each layer of cells was narrowed and decreased. The photoreceptor cells and Müller glia cells almost disappeared in kri1l mutants. The lack of photoreceptor cells caused a fear of light response. The development of the retina started without abnormalities, and the abnormalities began two days after fertilization. In the kri1l mutant, retinal cell differentiation was defective, resulting in the disappearance of cone cells and Müller cells. The proliferation of retinal cells was increased, while apoptosis was also enhanced in kri1l mutants. γ-H2AX upregulation indicated the accumulation of DNA damage, which resulted in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The kri1l mutation reduced the expression of some opsin genes and key retinal genes, which are also essential for retinal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Fourth Hospital of Baotou, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Jiajun Sun
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Yabin Xie
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Meitong Tao
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rengui Bade
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuyuan Jiang
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- School of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Xiaolei Liu
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- School of Pharmacy, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
| | - Guo Shao
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center for Translational Medicine and Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third People's Hospital of Longgang District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weijun Pan
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengjiang Zhou
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China.
| | - Xiaoe Jia
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China.
- Inner Mongolia Key laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia, Baotou, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Shamsnajafabadi H, Kaukonen M, Bellingrath JS, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. In Silico CRISPR-Cas-Mediated Base Editing Strategies for Early-Onset, Severe Cone-Rod Retinal Degeneration in Three Crumbs homolog 1 Patients, including the Novel Variant c.2833G>A. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:625. [PMID: 38790254 PMCID: PMC11121323 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050625] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in the Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene lead to severe, childhood-onset retinal degeneration leading to blindness in early adulthood. There are no approved therapies, and traditional adeno-associated viral vector-based gene therapy approaches are challenged by the existence of multiple CRB1 isoforms. Here, we describe three CRB1 variants, including a novel, previously unreported variant that led to retinal degeneration. We offer a CRISPR-Cas-mediated DNA base editing strategy as a potential future therapeutic approach. This study is a retrospective case series. Clinical and genetic assessments were performed, including deep phenotyping by retinal imaging. In silico analyses were used to predict the pathogenicity of the novel variant and to determine whether the variants are amenable to DNA base editing strategies. Case 1 was a 24-year-old male with cone-rod dystrophy and retinal thickening typical of CRB1 retinopathy. He had a relatively preserved central outer retinal structure and a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 60 ETDRS letters in both eyes. Genetic testing revealed compound heterozygous variants in exon 9: c.2843G>A, p.(Cys948Tyr) and a novel variant, c.2833G>A, p.(Gly945Arg), which was predicted to likely be pathogenic by an in silico analysis. Cases 2 and 3 were two brothers, aged 20 and 24, who presented with severe cone-rod dystrophy and a significant disruption of the outer nuclear layers. The BCVA was reduced to hand movements in both eyes in Case 2 and to 42 ETDRS letters in both eyes in Case 3. Case 2 was also affected with marked cystoid macular lesions, which are common in CRB1 retinopathy, but responded well to treatment with oral acetazolamide. Genetic testing revealed two c.2234C>T, p.(Thr745Met) variants in both brothers. As G-to-A and C-to-T variants, all three variants are amenable to adenine base editors (ABEs) targeting the forward strand in the Case 1 variants and the reverse strand in Cases 2 and 3. Available PAM sites were detected for KKH-nSaCas9-ABE8e for the c.2843G>A variant, nSaCas9-ABE8e and KKH-nSaCas9-ABE8e for the c.2833G>A variant, and nSpCas9-ABE8e for the c.2234C>T variant. In this case series, we report three pathogenic CRB1 variants, including a novel c.2833G>A variant associated with early-onset cone-rod dystrophy. We highlight the severity and rapid progression of the disease and offer ABEs as a potential future therapeutic approach for this devastating blinding condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Maria Kaukonen
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Julia-Sophia Bellingrath
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; (H.S.)
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Peng S, Li JJ, Song W, Li Y, Zeng L, Liang Q, Wen X, Shang H, Liu K, Peng P, Xue W, Zou B, Yang L, Liang J, Zhang Z, Guo S, Chen T, Li W, Jin M, Xing XB, Wan P, Liu C, Lin H, Wei H, Lee RWJ, Zhang F, Wei L. CRB1-associated retinal degeneration is dependent on bacterial translocation from the gut. Cell 2024; 187:1387-1401.e13. [PMID: 38412859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
The Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene is associated with retinal degeneration, most commonly Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Here, we demonstrate that murine retinas bearing the Rd8 mutation of Crb1 are characterized by the presence of intralesional bacteria. While normal CRB1 expression was enriched in the apical junctional complexes of retinal pigment epithelium and colonic enterocytes, Crb1 mutations dampened its expression at both sites. Consequent impairment of the outer blood retinal barrier and colonic intestinal epithelial barrier in Rd8 mice led to the translocation of intestinal bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract to the retina, resulting in secondary retinal degeneration. Either the depletion of bacteria systemically or the reintroduction of normal Crb1 expression colonically rescued Rd8-mutation-associated retinal degeneration without reversing the retinal barrier breach. Our data elucidate the pathogenesis of Crb1-mutation-associated retinal degenerations and suggest that antimicrobial agents have the potential to treat this devastating blinding disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanzhen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jing Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wanying Song
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Ye Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Lei Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Qiaoxing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Haitao Shang
- Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Keli Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Peiyao Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Bin Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Liu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Juanran Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Zhihui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Eye Institute & School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Shixin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wenxuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Ming Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 10029, China
| | - Xiang-Bin Xing
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Pengxia Wan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Chunqiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Haotian Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Hong Wei
- Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Richard W J Lee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| | - Lai Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China.
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Ayash J, Woods RL, Akula JD, Rajabi F, Alwattar BK, Altschwager P, Fulton AB. Characteristics of Eyes With CRB1-Associated EOSRD/LCA: Age-Related Changes. Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 263:168-178. [PMID: 38461945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate ocular and retinal features of CRB1-associated early onset severe retinal dystrophy/Leber congenital amaurosis (EOSRD/LCA) for age-related changes. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Sixteen pediatric patients with biallelic CRB1 EOSRD/LCA who had been followed for up to 18 years were reviewed. Results of comprehensive ophthalmic examinations-including visual acuity, refractive error, dark-adapted visual threshold, Goldmann perimetry, and macular optical coherence tomography (OCT)-were analyzed for significant age-related changes using mixed-effects models. RESULTS Visual acuity dark-adapted visual sensitivity, and area of seeing visual field (all subnormal from the earliest ages recorded) declined with increasing age. Hyperopia was stable through childhood and adolescence. In CRB1 EOSRD/LCA, OCT extrafoveal inner and outer laminar thicknesses exceeded those in controls but varied little with age, and foveal metrics (depth, breadth, thickness at rim) differed significantly from those in controls, but variations in foveal metrics were not associated with declines in acuity. CONCLUSIONS From the youngest ages, retinal and visual function is significantly subnormal and becomes progressively compromized. A goal of future therapies should be intervention at young ages, when there is more function to be rescued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jad Ayash
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Russell L Woods
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James D Akula
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Farrah Rajabi
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bilal K Alwattar
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pablo Altschwager
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anne B Fulton
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (J.A., R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Ophthalmology (R.L.W., J.D.A., F.R., B.K.A., P.A., A.B.F.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Jin Y, Li S, Jiang Z, Sun L, Huang L, Zhang T, Liu X, Ding X. Genotype-Phenotype of CRB1-Associated Early-Onset Retinal Dystrophy: Novel Insights on Retinal Architecture and Therapeutic Window for Clinical Trials. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:11. [PMID: 38466290 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of CRB1-associated early onset retinal dystrophy (CRB1-eoRD) and retinal architecture by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). Methods Eleven probands with CRB1-eoRD were recruited. Clinical information, genetic analysis, and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations including SS-OCT and SS-OCT angiography (SS-OCTA) were conducted. Results A total of 81.8% (9/11) of CRB1-eoRD presented as Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). Common clinical manifestations included coin-like yellow-white retinal spots (20/22, 90.9%) and para-arteriolar retinal pigment epithelial retention (12/22, 54.5%). Nineteen different CRB1 variants were detected in our case series, including 12 missense, 3 frameshifts, 3 nonsense, and 1 splicing. Of them, 12 variants had been reported, and 7 were novel. SS-OCT showed thinner central macula (the LCA group, P < 0.0001), thicker total retina (P < 0.0001), thinner outer retina (P < 0.05), and thicker inner retina (P < 0.0001) compared with the healthy control. The inner/outer (I/O) retina thickness ratio of CRB1-eoRD was 3.0, higher than the healthy control of 1.2 and other inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) of 2.2 (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0027, respectively). SS-OCTA revealed an increased vascular density and perfusion area of the superficial vascular complex and deep vascular complex in CRB1-eoRD. Conclusions LCA emerges as a frequently occurring phenotype in CRB1-eoRD. The unique features of SS-OCT and SS-OCTA are illustrated, and the novel biomarker, I/O ratio, may facilitate early diagnosis. The insights gained from this study hold significant value in determining the treatment window for potential forthcoming CRB1 gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yili Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Songshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoxin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Limei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
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Owen N, Toms M, Tian Y, Toualbi L, Richardson R, Young R, Tracey‐White D, Dhami P, Beck S, Moosajee M. Loss of the crumbs cell polarity complex disrupts epigenetic transcriptional control and cell cycle progression in the developing retina. J Pathol 2023; 259:441-454. [PMID: 36656098 PMCID: PMC10601974 DOI: 10.1002/path.6056] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The crumbs cell polarity complex plays a crucial role in apical-basal epithelial polarity, cellular adhesion, and morphogenesis. Homozygous variants in human CRB1 result in autosomal recessive Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), with no established genotype-phenotype correlation. The associated protein complexes have key functions in developmental pathways; however, the underlying disease mechanism remains unclear. Using the oko meduzym289/m289 (crb2a-/- ) zebrafish, we performed integrative transcriptomic (RNA-seq data) and methylomic [reduced representation bisulphite sequencing (RRBS)] analysis of whole retina to identify dysregulated genes and pathways. Delayed retinal cell specification was identified in both the crb2a-/- zebrafish and CRB1 patient-derived retinal organoids, highlighting the dysfunction of cell cycle modulation and epigenetic transcriptional control. Differential DNA methylation analysis revealed novel hypermethylated pathways involving biological adhesion, Hippo, and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signalling. By integrating gene expression with DNA methylation using functional epigenetic modules (FEM), we identified six key modules involving cell cycle control and disturbance of TGFβ, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), Hippo, and SMAD protein signal transduction pathways, revealing significant interactome hotspots relevant to crb2a function and confirming the epigenetic control of gene regulation in early retinal development, which points to a novel mechanism underlying CRB1-retinopathies. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Owen
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Maria Toms
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Yuan Tian
- Medical Genomics, UCL Cancer InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Lyes Toualbi
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
| | - Rose Richardson
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Rodrigo Young
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Pawan Dhami
- Medical Genomics, UCL Cancer InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Stephan Beck
- Medical Genomics, UCL Cancer InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of OphthalmologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUK
- Department of OphthalmologyGreat Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of GeneticsMoorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
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8
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Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Pathogenesis Underlying Inherited Retinal Dystrophies. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020271. [PMID: 36830640 PMCID: PMC9953031 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020271] [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: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are congenital retinal degenerative diseases that have various inheritance patterns, including dominant, recessive, X-linked, and mitochondrial. These diseases are most often the result of defects in rod and/or cone photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium function, development, or both. The genes associated with these diseases, when mutated, produce altered protein products that have downstream effects in pathways critical to vision, including phototransduction, the visual cycle, photoreceptor development, cellular respiration, and retinal homeostasis. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive review of the underlying molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of IRDs by delving into many of the genes associated with IRD development, their protein products, and the pathways interrupted by genetic mutation.
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9
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Daich Varela M, Georgiou M, Alswaiti Y, Kabbani J, Fujinami K, Fujinami-Yokokawa Y, Khoda S, Mahroo OA, Robson AG, Webster AR, AlTalbishi A, Michaelides M. CRB1-Associated Retinal Dystrophies: Genetics, Clinical Characteristics, and Natural History. Am J Ophthalmol 2023; 246:107-121. [PMID: 36099972 PMCID: PMC10555856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the clinical characteristics, natural history, and genetics of CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies. DESIGN Multicenter international retrospective cohort study. METHODS Review of clinical notes, ophthalmic images, and genetic testing results of 104 patients (91 probands) with disease-causing CRB1 variants. Macular optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters, visual function, fundus characteristics, and associations between variables were the main outcome measures. RESULTS The mean age of the cohort at the first visit was 19.8 ± 16.1 (median 15) years, with a mean follow-up of 9.6 ± 10 years. Based on history, imaging, and clinical examination, 26 individuals were diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP; 25%), 54 with early-onset severe retinal dystrophy / Leber congenital amaurosis (EOSRD/LCA; 52%), and 24 with macular dystrophy (MD; 23%). Severe visual impairment was most frequent after 40 years of age for patients with RP and after 20 years of age for EOSRD/LCA. Longitudinal analysis revealed a significant difference between baseline and follow-up best-corrected visual acuity in the 3 subcohorts. Macular thickness decreased in most patients with EOSRD/LCA and MD, whereas the majority of patients with RP had increased perifoveal thickness. CONCLUSIONS A subset of individuals with CRB1 variants present with mild, adult-onset RP. EOSRD/LCA phenotype was significantly associated with null variants, and 167_169 deletion was exclusively present in the MD cohort. The poor OCT lamination may have a degenerative component, as well as being congenital. Disease symmetry and reasonable window for intervention highlight CRB1 retinal dystrophies as a promising target for trials of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malena Daich Varela
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Michalis Georgiou
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; Jones Eye Institute (M.G.), University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Yahya Alswaiti
- St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital group, Jerusalem, Palestine (Y.A., A.A.)
| | - Jamil Kabbani
- Imperial College London (J.K.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Kaoru Fujinami
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center (Y.F.-Y.), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu Fujinami-Yokokawa
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center (Y.F.-Y.), Tokyo, Japan; Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Medicine, Keio University(Y.F.-Y.), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shaheeni Khoda
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Omar A Mahroo
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony G Robson
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R Webster
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom
| | - Alaa AlTalbishi
- St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital group, Jerusalem, Palestine (Y.A., A.A.)
| | - Michel Michaelides
- Moorfields Eye Hospital (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., S.K., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London (M.D.V., M.G., K.F., Y.F.-Y., O.A.M., A.G.R., A.R.W., M.M.), London, United Kingdom.
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10
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Rajabian F, Arrigo A, Bianco L, Antropoli A, Manitto MP, Martina E, Bandello F, Chhablani J, Battaglia Parodi M. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in CRB1-Associated Retinal Dystrophies. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031095. [PMID: 36769743 PMCID: PMC9918093 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031095] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY To report optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) findings in patients affected by CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies. METHOD Patients affected by a genetically confirmed CRB1-associated retinal dystrophy were prospectively enrolled in an observational study, along with age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers as control subjects. All study and control subjects received a complete ophthalmic examination and multimodal retinal imaging, including OCTA. RESULT A total of 12 eyes from 6 patients were included in the study. The mean BCVA of patients was 0.42 ± 0.25 logMAR. Two patients showed large central atrophy, with corresponding definite hypo-autofluorescence on fundus autofluorescence (FAF). Another four patients disclosed different degrees of RPE mottling, with uneven FAF. On OCTA, the macular deep capillary plexus and choriocapillaris had a lower vessel density in eyes affected by CRB1-associated retinopathy when compared to healthy controls. On the other hand, vessel density at the peripapillary radial capillary plexus, superficial capillary plexus, and deep capillary plexus was significantly altered with respect to control eyes. Statistical analyses disclosed a negative correlation between the deep capillary plexus and both LogMAR best corrected visual acuity and central retinal thickness. CONCLUSION Our study reveals that CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies are characterized by vascular alterations both in the macular and peripapillary region, as assessed by OCTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firuzeh Rajabian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0226432648
| | - Lorenzo Bianco
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Antropoli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Manitto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Martina
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Maurizio Battaglia Parodi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
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11
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Clinical and Therapeutic Evaluation of the Ten Most Prevalent CRB1 Mutations. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020385. [PMID: 36830922 PMCID: PMC9953187 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020385] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene lead to severe inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs), accounting for nearly 80,000 cases worldwide. To date, there is no therapeutic option for patients suffering from CRB1-IRDs. Therefore, it is of great interest to evaluate gene editing strategies capable of correcting CRB1 mutations. A retrospective chart review was conducted on ten patients demonstrating one or two of the top ten most prevalent CRB1 mutations and receiving care at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA. Patient phenotypes were consistent with previously published data for individual CRB1 mutations. To identify the optimal gene editing strategy for these ten mutations, base and prime editing designs were evaluated. For base editing, we adopted the use of a near-PAMless Cas9 (SpRY Cas9), whereas for prime editing, we evaluated the canonical NGG and NGA prime editors. We demonstrate that for the correction of c.2843G>A, p.(Cys948Tyr), the most prevalent CRB1 mutation, base editing has the potential to generate harmful bystanders. Prime editing, however, avoids these bystanders, highlighting its future potential to halt CRB1-mediated disease progression. Additional studies investigating prime editing for CRB1-IRDs are needed, as well as a thorough analysis of prime editing's application, efficiency, and safety in the retina.
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12
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Völkner M, Wagner F, Kurth T, Sykes AM, Del Toro Runzer C, Ebner LJA, Kavak C, Alexaki VI, Cimalla P, Mehner M, Koch E, Karl MO. Modeling inducible neuropathologies of the retina with differential phenotypes in organoids. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1106287. [PMID: 37213216 PMCID: PMC10196395 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1106287] [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: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases remain incompletely understood and therapies are needed. Stem cell-derived organoid models facilitate fundamental and translational medicine research. However, to which extent differential neuronal and glial pathologic processes can be reproduced in current systems is still unclear. Here, we tested 16 different chemical, physical, and cell functional manipulations in mouse retina organoids to further explore this. Some of the treatments induce differential phenotypes, indicating that organoids are competent to reproduce distinct pathologic processes. Notably, mouse retina organoids even reproduce a complex pathology phenotype with combined photoreceptor neurodegeneration and glial pathologies upon combined (not single) application of HBEGF and TNF, two factors previously associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacological inhibitors for MAPK signaling completely prevent photoreceptor and glial pathologies, while inhibitors for Rho/ROCK, NFkB, and CDK4 differentially affect them. In conclusion, mouse retina organoids facilitate reproduction of distinct and complex pathologies, mechanistic access, insights for further organoid optimization, and modeling of differential phenotypes for future applications in fundamental and translational medicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Völkner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Felix Wagner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alex M. Sykes
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Lynn J. A. Ebner
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Cagri Kavak
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Peter Cimalla
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mirko Mehner
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Edmund Koch
- Technische Universität Dresden, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mike O. Karl
- Technische Universität Dresden, Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
- *Correspondence: Mike O. Karl, ,
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13
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HBEGF-TNF induce a complex outer retinal pathology with photoreceptor cell extrusion in human organoids. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6183. [PMID: 36261438 PMCID: PMC9581928 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human organoids could facilitate research of complex and currently incurable neuropathologies, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which causes blindness. Here, we establish a human retinal organoid system reproducing several parameters of the human retina, including some within the macula, to model a complex combination of photoreceptor and glial pathologies. We show that combined application of TNF and HBEGF, factors associated with neuropathologies, is sufficient to induce photoreceptor degeneration, glial pathologies, dyslamination, and scar formation: These develop simultaneously and progressively as one complex phenotype. Histologic, transcriptome, live-imaging, and mechanistic studies reveal a previously unknown pathomechanism: Photoreceptor neurodegeneration via cell extrusion. This could be relevant for aging, AMD, and some inherited diseases. Pharmacological inhibitors of the mechanosensor PIEZO1, MAPK, and actomyosin each avert pathogenesis; a PIEZO1 activator induces photoreceptor extrusion. Our model offers mechanistic insights, hypotheses for neuropathologies, and it could be used to develop therapies to prevent vision loss or to regenerate the retina in patients suffering from AMD and other diseases.
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14
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Duan W, Zhou T, Jiang H, Zhang M, Hu M, Zhang L. A novel nonsense variant (c.1499C>G) in CRB1 caused Leber congenital amaurosis-8 in a Chinese family and a literature review. BMC Med Genomics 2022; 15:197. [PMID: 36115989 PMCID: PMC9482190 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-022-01356-z] [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: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leber’s congenital amaurosis (LCA) is a severe hereditary retinopathy disease that is characterized by early and severe reduction of vision, nystagmus, and sluggish or absent pupillary responses. To date, the pathogenesis of LCA remains unclear, and the majority of cases are caused by autosomal recessive inheritance. In this study, we explored the variant in the Crumbs homologue 1 (CRB1) gene in a Chinese family with LCA.
Methods We conducted comprehensive ocular examinations and collected 5 ml of blood samples from members of a Chinese family with LCA. A pathogenic variant was identified by capturing (the panel in NGS) and Sanger sequencing validation. Results A nonsense variant (c.1499C>G) in the 6th exon of CRB1 gene in a Chinese family with LCA was identified, which predicted a change in the protein p. S500*, may lead to loss of gene function. We summarized the 76 variants reported thus far in CRB1 that caused LCA8. Conclusions This study reported a novel variant c.1499C>G (p. S500*) of the CRB1 gene occurred in a Chinese family with LCA, thus expanding the spectrum of CRB1 variants causing LCA.
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15
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Non-vasogenic cystoid maculopathies. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 91:101092. [PMID: 35927124 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Besides cystoid macular edema due to a blood-retinal barrier breakdown, another type of macular cystoid spaces referred to as non-vasogenic cystoid maculopathies (NVCM) may be detected on optical coherence tomography but not on fluorescein angiography. Various causes may disrupt retinal cell cohesion or impair retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller cell functions in the maintenance of retinal dehydration, resulting in cystoid spaces formation. Tractional causes include vitreomacular traction, epiretinal membranes and myopic foveoschisis. Surgical treatment does not always allow cystoid space resorption. In inherited retinal dystrophies, cystoid spaces may be part of the disease as in X-linked retinoschisis or enhanced S-cone syndrome, or occur occasionally as in bestrophinopathies, retinitis pigmentosa and allied diseases, congenital microphthalmia, choroideremia, gyrate atrophy and Bietti crystalline dystrophy. In macular telangiectasia type 2, cystoid spaces and cavitations do not depend on the fluid leakage from telangiectasia. Various causes affecting RPE function may result in NVCM such as chronic central serous chorioretinopathy and paraneoplastic syndromes. Non-exudative age macular degeneration may also be complicated by intraretinal cystoid spaces in the absence of fluorescein leakage. In these diseases, cystoid spaces occur in a context of retinal cell loss. Various causes of optic atrophy, including open-angle glaucoma, result in microcystoid spaces in the inner nuclear layer due to a retrograde transsynaptic degeneration. Lastly, drug toxicity may also induce cystoid maculopathy. Identifying NVCM on multimodal imaging, including fluorescein angiography if needed, allows guiding the diagnosis of the causative disease and choosing adequate treatment when available.
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16
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Corvi F, Juhn A, Corradetti G, Nguyen TV, Fawzi AA, Sarraf D, Sadda SR. MULTIMODAL IMAGING OF CRB1 RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA WITH A PERIPHERAL RETINAL TUMOR. Retin Cases Brief Rep 2022; 16:407-410. [PMID: 32976229 DOI: 10.1097/icb.0000000000001058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the multimodal imaging findings of a patient with gene- crumbs 1 -associated retinitis pigmentosa (RP) characterized by preservation of para-arteriolar retinal pigment epithelium and a peripheral retinal tumor. METHODS A 27-year-old woman was referred to our center because of progressive decreased vision in both eyes with a diagnosis of gene- crumbs 1 -associated RP. Fundus examination was remarkable for attenuated retinal vessels and bone spicule migration that was bilateral and symmetric. In addition, an elevated yellow-white mass with dilated retinal vessels was noted in the superotemporal midperiphery of the retina in the left eye without any associated exudation. RESULTS Diffuse retinal pigment epithelium mottling was present but spared the area along the retinal arterioles. Swept-source optical coherence tomography showed diffuse outer retinal atrophy. Optical coherence tomography angiography of the peripheral lesion illustrated extensive vascularity and a possible retinal feeder vessel communicating with the tumor at its inferior margin. The phenotype of the lesion showed overlap with a vasoproliferative tumor or an astrocytic hamartoma. Over a period of 5 years of follow-up, the peripheral tumor was unchanged. No significant progression of the peripheral retinal degeneration was evidenced by autofluorescent imaging over this time period although the central acuity continued to decrease. CONCLUSION Gene- crumbs 1 -associated RP may be characterized by preservation of the para-arteriolar retinal pigment epithelium and slow progression and may also feature a benign peripheral retinal tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Corvi
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science "Luigi Sacco," Eye Clinic, Sacco Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; and
| | - Alexander Juhn
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Giulia Corradetti
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Tieu Vy Nguyen
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Amani A Fawzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - David Sarraf
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - SriniVas R Sadda
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
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Bellingrath JS, McClements ME, Shanks M, Clouston P, Fischer MD, MacLaren RE. Envisioning the development of a CRISPR-Cas mediated base editing strategy for a patient with a novel pathogenic CRB1 single nucleotide variant. Ophthalmic Genet 2022; 43:661-670. [PMID: 35538629 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2022.2073599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) associated with mutations in the Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) gene is associated with a severe, early-onset retinal degeneration for which no therapy currently exists. Base editing, with its capability to precisely catalyse permanent nucleobase conversion in a programmable manner, represents a novel therapeutic approach to targeting this autosomal recessive IRD, for which a gene supplementation is challenging due to the need to target three different retinal CRB1 isoforms. PURPOSE To report and classify a novel CRB1 variant and envision a possible therapeutic approach in form of base editing. METHODS Case report. RESULTS A 16-year-old male patient with a clinical diagnosis of early-onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and characteristic clinical findings of retinal thickening and coarse lamination was seen at the Oxford Eye Hospital. He was found to be compound heterozygous for two CRB1 variants: a novel pathogenic nonsense variant in exon 9, c.2885T>A (p.Leu962Ter), and a likely pathogenic missense change in exon 6, c.2056C>T (p.Arg686Cys). While a base editing strategy for c.2885T>A would encompass a CRISPR-pass mediated "read-through" of the premature stop codon, the resulting missense changes were predicted to be "possibly damaging" in in-silico analysis. On the other hand, the transversion missense change, c.2056C>T, is amenable to transition editing with an adenine base editor (ABE) fused to a SaCas9-KKH with a negligible chance of bystander edits due to an absence of additional Adenines (As) in the editing window. CONCLUSIONS This case report records a novel pathogenic nonsense variant in CRB1 and gives an example of thinking about a base editing strategy for a patient compound heterozygous for CRB1 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-S Bellingrath
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - M E McClements
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - M Shanks
- Genetics Laboratories, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - P Clouston
- Genetics Laboratories, Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - M D Fischer
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - R E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Liu W, Liu S, Li P, Yao K. Retinitis Pigmentosa: Progress in Molecular Pathology and Biotherapeutical Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094883. [PMID: 35563274 PMCID: PMC9101511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is genetically heterogeneous retinopathy caused by photoreceptor cell death and retinal pigment epithelial atrophy that eventually results in blindness in bilateral eyes. Various photoreceptor cell death types and pathological phenotypic changes that have been disclosed in RP demand in-depth research of its pathogenic mechanism that may account for inter-patient heterogeneous responses to mainstream drug treatment. As the primary method for studying the genetic characteristics of RP, molecular biology has been widely used in disease diagnosis and clinical trials. Current technology iterations, such as gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and optogenetics, are advancing towards precise diagnosis and clinical applications. Specifically, technologies, such as effective delivery vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and iPSC-based cell transplantation, hasten the pace of personalized precision medicine in RP. The combination of conventional therapy and state-of-the-art medication is promising in revolutionizing RP treatment strategies. This article provides an overview of the latest research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, aiming for a convenient reference of what has been achieved so far.
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Nguyen XTA, Talib M, van Schooneveld MJ, Wijnholds J, van Genderen MM, Schalij-Delfos NE, Klaver CCW, Talsma HE, Fiocco M, Florijn RJ, Ten Brink JB, Cremers FPM, Meester-Smoor MA, van den Born LI, Hoyng CB, Thiadens AAHJ, Bergen AA, Boon CJF. CRB1-Associated Retinal Dystrophies: A Prospective Natural History Study in Anticipation of Future Clinical Trials. Am J Ophthalmol 2022; 234:37-48. [PMID: 34320374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2021.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the natural disease course of retinal dystrophies associated with crumbs cell polarity complex component 1 (CRB1) and identify clinical end points for future clinical trials. DESIGN Single-center, prospective case series. METHODS An investigator-initiated nationwide collaborative study that included 22 patients with CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies. Patients underwent ophthalmic assessment at baseline and 2 years after baseline. Clinical examination included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) using Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study charts, Goldmann kinetic perimetry (V4e isopter seeing retinal areas), microperimetry, full-field electroretinography, full-field stimulus threshold (FST), fundus photography, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and fundus autofluorescence imaging. RESULTS Based on genetic, clinical, and electrophysiological data, patients were diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (19 [86%]), cone-rod dystrophy (2 [9%]), or isolated macular dystrophy (1 [5%]). Analysis of the entire cohort at 2 years showed no significant changes in BCVA (P = .069) or V4e isopter seeing retinal areas (P = .616), although signs of clinical progression were present in individual patients. Macular sensitivity measured on microperimetry revealed a significant reduction at the 2-year follow-up (P < .001). FST responses were measurable in patients with nonrecordable electroretinograms. On average, FST responses remained stable during follow-up. CONCLUSION In CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies, visual acuity and visual field measures remain relatively stable over the course of 2 years. Microperimetry showed a significant decrease in retinal sensitivity during follow-up and may be a more sensitive progression marker. Retinal sensitivity on microperimetry may serve as a functional clinical end point in future human treatment trials for CRB1-associated retinal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan-Thanh-An Nguyen
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mays Talib
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mary J van Schooneveld
- Department of Ophthalmology (M.J.v.S., C.J.F.B.), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN-KNAW) (J.W., A.A.B.), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria M van Genderen
- Bartiméus Diagnostic Centre for Complex Visual Disorders (M.M.v.G., H.E.T.), Zeist, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology (M.M.v.G.), University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nicoline E Schalij-Delfos
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Caroline C W Klaver
- Department of Ophthalmology (C.C.W.K., M.A.M.-S., A.A.H.J.T.); Department of Epidemiology (C.C.W.K.), Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology (C.C.W.K., C.B.H.), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Institute for Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology (C.C.W.K.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Herman E Talsma
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Bartiméus Diagnostic Centre for Complex Visual Disorders (M.M.v.G., H.E.T.), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Marta Fiocco
- Mathematical Institute (M.F.), and Department of Biomedical Data Sciences (M.F.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ralph J Florijn
- Department of Clinical Genetics (R.J.F., J.B.t.B., A.A.B.), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jacoline B Ten Brink
- Department of Clinical Genetics (R.J.F., J.B.t.B., A.A.B.), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frans P M Cremers
- Department of Human Genetics and Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour (F.P.M.C.), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Carel B Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology (C.C.W.K., C.B.H.), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Arthur A Bergen
- The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN-KNAW) (J.W., A.A.B.), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Genetics (R.J.F., J.B.t.B., A.A.B.), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Camiel J F Boon
- From the Department of Ophthalmology (X.-T.-A.N., M.T., J.W., N.E.S.-D., H.E.T., C.J.F.B.), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology (M.J.v.S., C.J.F.B.), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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CRB1-Related Retinal Dystrophies in a Cohort of 50 Patients: A Reappraisal in the Light of Specific Müller Cell and Photoreceptor CRB1 Isoforms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312642. [PMID: 34884448 PMCID: PMC8657784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in CRB1 lead to diverse recessive retinal disorders from severe Leber congenital amaurosis to isolated macular dystrophy. Until recently, no clear phenotype-genotype correlation and no appropriate mouse models existed. Herein, we reappraise the phenotype-genotype correlation of 50 patients with regards to the recently identified CRB1 isoforms: a canonical long isoform A localized in Müller cells (12 exons) and a short isoform B predominant in photoreceptors (7 exons). Twenty-eight patients with early onset retinal dystrophy (EORD) consistently had a severe Müller impairment, with variable impact on the photoreceptors, regardless of isoform B expression. Among them, two patients expressing wild type isoform B carried one variant in exon 12, which specifically damaged intracellular protein interactions in Müller cells. Thirteen retinitis pigmentosa patients had mainly missense variants in laminin G-like domains and expressed at least 50% of isoform A. Eight patients with the c.498_506del variant had macular dystrophy. In one family homozygous for the c.1562C>T variant, the brother had EORD and the sister macular dystrophy. In contrast with the mouse model, these data highlight the key role of Müller cells in the severity of CRB1-related dystrophies in humans, which should be taken into consideration for future clinical trials.
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21
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Huang CH, Yang CM, Yang CH, Hou YC, Chen TC. Leber's Congenital Amaurosis: Current Concepts of Genotype-Phenotype Correlations. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081261. [PMID: 34440435 PMCID: PMC8392113 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leber’s congenital amaurosis (LCA), one of the most severe inherited retinal dystrophies, is typically associated with extremely early onset of visual loss, nystagmus, and amaurotic pupils, and is responsible for 20% of childhood blindness. With advances in molecular diagnostic technology, the knowledge about the genetic background of LCA has expanded widely, while disease-causing variants have been identified in 38 genes. Different pathogenetic mechanisms have been found among these varieties of genetic mutations, all of which result in the dysfunction or absence of their encoded proteins participating in the visual cycle. Hence, the clinical phenotypes also exhibit extensive heterogenicity, including the course of visual impairment, involvement of the macular area, alteration in retinal structure, and residual function of the diseased photoreceptor. By reviewing the clinical course, fundoscopic images, optical coherent tomography examination, and electroretinogram, genotype-phenotype correlations could be established for common genetic mutations in LCA, which would benefit the timing of the diagnosis and thus promote early intervention. Gene therapy is promising in the management of LCA, while several clinical trials are ongoing and preliminary success has been announced, focusing on RPE65 and other common disease-causing genes. This review provides an update on the genetics, clinical examination findings, and genotype-phenotype correlations in the most well-established causative genetic mutations of LCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Hsuan Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (C.-H.H.); (Y.-C.H.)
| | - Chung-May Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (C.-M.Y.); (C.-H.Y.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Hao Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (C.-M.Y.); (C.-H.Y.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chih Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (C.-H.H.); (Y.-C.H.)
| | - Ta-Ching Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; (C.-M.Y.); (C.-H.Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-23123456
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22
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Shen RJ, Wang JG, Li Y, Jin ZB. Consanguinity-based analysis of exome sequencing yields likely genetic causes in patients with inherited retinal dystrophy. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:278. [PMID: 34130719 PMCID: PMC8204521 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01902-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Consanguineous families have a relatively high prevalence of genetic disorders caused by bi-allelic mutations in recessive genes. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of a consanguinity-based exome sequencing approach to capturing genetic mutations in inherited retinal dystrophy families with consanguineous marriages. Methods Ten unrelated consanguineous families with a proband affected by inherited retinal dystrophy were recruited in this study. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. Whole exome sequencing was performed, followed by a homozygote-prior strategy to rapidly filter disease-causing mutations. Bioinformatic prediction of pathogenicity, Sanger sequencing and co-segregation analysis were carried out for further validation. Results In ten consanguineous families, a total of 10 homozygous mutations in 8 IRD genes were identified, including 2 novel mutations, c.1654_1655delAG (p. R552Afs*5) in gene FAM161A in a patient diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, and c.830T > C (p.L277P) in gene CEP78 in a patient diagnosed with cone and rod dystrophy. Conclusion The genetic etiology in consanguineous families with IRD were successfully identified using consanguinity-based analysis of exome sequencing data, suggesting that this approach could provide complementary insights into genetic diagnoses in consanguineous families with variant genetic disorders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-01902-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Juan Shen
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Jun-Gang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Yang Li
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Beijing, China.
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Manafi N, Shokri F, Achberger K, Hirayama M, Mohammadi MH, Noorizadeh F, Hong J, Liebau S, Tsuji T, Quinn PMJ, Mashaghi A. Organoids and organ chips in ophthalmology. Ocul Surf 2020; 19:1-15. [PMID: 33220469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances have driven the development of stem cell-derived, self-organizing, three-dimensional miniature organs, termed organoids, which mimic different eye tissues including the retina, cornea, and lens. Organoids and engineered microfluidic organ-on-chips (organ chips) are transformative technologies that show promise in simulating the architectural and functional complexity of native organs. Accordingly, they enable exploration of facets of human disease and development not accurately recapitulated by animal models. Together, these technologies will increase our understanding of the basic physiology of different eye structures, enable us to interrogate unknown aspects of ophthalmic disease pathogenesis, and serve as clinically-relevant surrogates for the evaluation of ocular therapeutics. Both the burden and prevalence of monogenic and multifactorial ophthalmic diseases, which can cause visual impairment or blindness, in the human population warrants a paradigm shift towards organoids and organ chips that can provide sensitive, quantitative, and scalable phenotypic assays. In this article, we review the current situation of organoids and organ chips in ophthalmology and discuss how they can be leveraged for translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Manafi
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, The Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands; Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W2, Canada
| | - Fereshteh Shokri
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Achberger
- Institute of Neuroanatomy & Developmental Biology (INDB), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Österbergstrasse 3, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Masatoshi Hirayama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Chiba, 272-8513, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Melika Haji Mohammadi
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, The Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jiaxu Hong
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, The Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye, and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Shanghai, China; Key NHC Key Laboratory of Myopia (Fudan University), Laboratory of Myopia, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Myopia, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Shanghai, China
| | - Stefan Liebau
- Institute of Neuroanatomy & Developmental Biology (INDB), Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Österbergstrasse 3, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Takashi Tsuji
- Laboratory for Organ Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan; Organ Technologies Inc., Minato, Tokyo, 105-0001, Japan
| | - 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, USA.
| | - Alireza Mashaghi
- Medical Systems Biophysics and Bioengineering, The Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333CC, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Rudraraju M, Narayanan SP, Somanath PR. Regulation of blood-retinal barrier cell-junctions in diabetic retinopathy. Pharmacol Res 2020; 161:105115. [PMID: 32750417 PMCID: PMC7755666 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Loss of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) integrity and subsequent damage to the neurovascular unit in the retina are the underlying reasons for diabetic retinopathy (DR). Damage to BRB eventually leads to severe visual impairment in the absence of prompt intervention. Diabetic macular edema and proliferative DR are the advanced stages of the disease where BRB integrity is altered. Primary mechanisms contributing to BRB dysfunction include loss of cell-cell barrier junctions, vascular endothelial growth factor, advanced glycation end products-induced damage, and oxidative stress. Although much is known about the involvement of adherens and tight-junction proteins in the regulation of vascular permeability in various diseases, there is a significant gap in our knowledge on the junctional proteins expressed in the BRB and how BRB function is modulated in the diabetic retina. In this review article, we present our current understanding of the molecular composition of BRB, the changes in the BRB junctional protein turnover in DR, and how BRB functional modulation affects vascular permeability and macular edema in the diabetic retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhuri Rudraraju
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - S Priya Narayanan
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Payaningal R Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; Department of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States.
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25
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Sun N, Dou X, Tang Z, Zhang D, Ni N, Wang J, Gao H, Ju Y, Dai X, Zhao C, Gu P, Ji J, Feng C. Bio-inspired chiral self-assemblies promoted neuronal differentiation of retinal progenitor cells through activation of metabolic pathway. Bioact Mater 2020; 6:990-997. [PMID: 33102941 PMCID: PMC7560590 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2020.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degeneration is a main class of ocular diseases. So far, retinal progenitor cell (RPC) transplantation has been the most potential therapy for it, in which promoting RPCs neuronal differentiation remains an unmet challenge. To address this issue, innovatively designed L/ d - phenylalanine based chiral nanofibers (LPG and DPG) are employed and it finds that chirality of fibers can efficiently regulate RPCs differentiation. qPCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence analysis show that right-handed helical DPG nanofibers significantly promote RPCs neuronal differentiation, whereas left-handed LPG nanofibers decrease this effect. These effects are mainly ascribed to the stereoselective interaction between chiral helical nanofibers and retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4, a key protein in the retinoic acid (RA) metabolic pathway). The findings of chirality-dependent neuronal differentiation provide new strategies for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases via optimizing differentiation of transplanted stem cells on chiral nanofibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Dou
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Dongchuan Road 800, 200240, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhimin Tang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Ni Ni
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jiajing Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Huiqin Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yahan Ju
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaochan Dai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Changli Zhao
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Dongchuan Road 800, 200240, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Gu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jing Ji
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chuanliang Feng
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Dongchuan Road 800, 200240, Shanghai, China
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Zebrafish Crb1, Localizing Uniquely to the Cell Membranes around Cone Photoreceptor Axonemes, Alleviates Light Damage to Photoreceptors and Modulates Cones' Light Responsiveness. J Neurosci 2020; 40:7065-7079. [PMID: 32817065 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0497-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The crumbs (crb) apical polarity genes are essential for the development and functions of epithelia. Adult zebrafish retinal neuroepithelium expresses three crb genes (crb1, crb2a, and crb2b); however, it is unknown whether and how Crb1 differs from other Crb proteins in expression, localization, and functions. Here, we show that, unlike zebrafish Crb2a and Crb2b as well as mammalian Crb1 and Crb2, zebrafish Crb1 does not localize to the subapical regions of photoreceptors and Müller glial cells; rather, it localizes to a small region of cone outer segments: the cell membranes surrounding the axonemes. Moreover, zebrafish Crb1 is not required for retinal morphogenesis and photoreceptor patterning. Interestingly, Crb1 promotes rod survival under strong white light irradiation in a previously unreported non--cell-autonomous fashion; in addition, Crb1 delays UV and blue cones' chromatin condensation caused by UV light irradiation. Finally, Crb1 plays a role in cones' responsiveness to light through an arrestin-translocation-independent mechanism. The localization of Crb1 and its functions do not differ between male and female fish. We conclude that zebrafish Crb1 has diverged from other vertebrate Crb proteins, representing a neofunctionalization in Crb biology during evolution.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Apicobasal polarity of epithelia is an important property that underlies the morphogenesis and functions of epithelial tissues. Epithelial apicobasal polarity is controlled by many polarity genes, including the crb genes. In vertebrates, multiple crb genes have been identified, but the differences in their expression patterns and functions are not fully understood. Here, we report a novel subcellular localization of zebrafish Crb1 in retinal cone photoreceptors and evidence for its new functions in photoreceptor maintenance and light responsiveness. This study expands our understanding of the biology of the crb genes in epithelia, including retinal neuroepithelium.
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Allan K, DiCicco R, Ramos M, Asosingh K, Yuan A. Preparing a Single Cell Suspension from Zebrafish Retinal Tissue for Flow Cytometric Cell Sorting of Müller Glia. Cytometry A 2020; 97:638-646. [PMID: 31769194 PMCID: PMC7246168 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Preparation of a single cell suspension from solid tissue is vital for a successful flow cytometry experiment. We report a detailed and reproducible method to produce a quality cell suspension from the zebrafish retina. Zebrafish retinas, especially their Müller glia cells, are of particular interest for their inherent regenerative capacity, making them a useful model for regenerative medicine and cell therapy research. Here, we detail a papain-based dissociation that is gentle enough to keep cells intact, but strong enough to disrupt cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions to yield a cell suspension that produces clean and reliable flow cytometric cell sorting results. This procedure consistently results in over 90% viability and three populations of cells based on GFP expression. The dissociation procedure described herein has been optimized for the collection of Müller glia from Tg(apoe:gfp) zebrafish retinas; however, the overall process may be applicable to other cell types in the fish retina, additional flow cytometric techniques, or preparing cell suspensions from similar tissues. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Allan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rose DiCicco
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Michael Ramos
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Kewal Asosingh
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Flow Cytometry Core, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Alex Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmic Research, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
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Zeng H, Huang Y, Chen L, Li H, Ma X. Exploration and validation of the effects of robust co-expressed immune-related genes on immune infiltration patterns and prognosis in laryngeal cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 85:106622. [PMID: 32485354 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Laryngeal cancer is a common malignant tumor that originates from the larynx, yet its molecular mechanisms have not been thoroughly explored. The purpose of this study was to identify and evaluate immune-related genes in laryngeal cancer through gene co-expression networks, which may serve as biomarkers for its immunotherapy. METHODS We applied ESTIMATE to evaluate the immune-infiltration landscape of tumor microenvironment. The co-expression networks were constructed by weighted gene co expression network analysis (WGCNA) and compared with the existing human immune related genes (IRGs) to determine the co-expressed IRGs. GSVA combined with CIBERSORT and ssGSEA illustrated the correlation of hub genes and immune infiltration patterns. TIDE algorithm and Subclass mapping evaluated the function of hub genes in predicting immune function and immunotherapeutic sensitivity. The pRRophetic was employed in the sensitivity prediction of chemotherapeutic drugs. RESULTS A total of 23 co-expressed IRGs were identified and showed robust expression characteristics. These genes were significantly related to immune infiltration patterns, immune function and sensitivity prediction of immunotherapy and chemotherapeutic drugs for laryngeal cancer patients. Genetic alteration in somatic mutation level and related pathways were also revealed. CONCLUSION The 23 co-expressed IRGs may act as immunotherapeutic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for laryngeal cancer with certain expression robustness. The molecular mechanisms deserve further investigation, which will guide clinical treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zeng
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Yeqian Huang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China; West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
| | - Linyan Chen
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China; West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China; State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.
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Talib M, Boon CJF. Retinal Dystrophies and the Road to Treatment: Clinical Requirements and Considerations. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2020; 9:159-179. [PMID: 32511120 PMCID: PMC7299224 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
: Retinal dystrophies (RDs) comprise relatively rare but devastating causes of progressive vision loss. They represent a spectrum of diseases with marked genetic and clinical heterogeneity. Mutations in the same gene may lead to different diagnoses, for example, retinitis pigmentosa or cone dystrophy. Conversely, mutations in different genes may lead to the same phenotype. The age at symptom onset, and the rate and characteristics of peripheral and central vision decline, may vary widely per disease group and even within families. For most RD cases, no effective treatment is currently available. However, preclinical studies and phase I/II/III gene therapy trials are ongoing for several RD subtypes, and recently the first retinal gene therapy has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for RPE65-associated RDs: voretigene neparvovec-rzyl (Luxturna). With the rapid advances in gene therapy studies, insight into the phenotypic spectrum and long-term disease course is crucial information for several RD types. The vast clinical heterogeneity presents another important challenge in the evaluation of potential efficacy in future treatment trials, and in establishing treatment candidacy criteria. This perspective describes these challenges, providing detailed clinical descriptions of several forms of RD that are caused by genes of interest for ongoing and future gene or cell-based therapy trials. Several ongoing and future treatment options will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mays Talib
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Camiel J F Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Establishment of induced pluripotent stem cell line CSUASOi004-A by reprogramming peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a PRPF6-related dominant retinitis pigmentosa patient. Stem Cell Res 2020; 45:101793. [PMID: 32335390 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2020.101793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We have established the patient-specific induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell line CSUASOi004-A by using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of a retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patient with a PRPF6 gene mutation (c.G2699A:p.R900H). CSUASOi004-A was established by a non-integrative method with four episomal plasmids containing the Yamanaka factors. The cell line with the specific point mutation had the typical features of normal iPS cells. For instance, the cells expressed pluripotency markers, generated all three germ layers and had a normal karyotype, and they can serve as a model for unravelling the pathogenic mechanisms underlying PRPF6-associated retinal degeneration.
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Establishment of induced pluripotent stem cell line CSUASOi003- A from an autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa patient carrying compound heterozygous mutations in CRB1 gene. Stem Cell Res 2020; 44:101742. [PMID: 32244200 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2020.101742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Crumbs homologue 1 (CRB1) mutations have been found in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients lead to severe retinal dystrophies. The human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell line CSUASOi003-A derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of a patient carrying two heterozygous mutations (2249G>A p.G750D and c.2809G>A p.A937T) in CRB1 gene was generated by non-integrative reprogramming technology. Pluripotency and differentiation capacity were assessed by immunocytochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The RP patient-specific iPS cell line provide a powerful model for evaluating the pathological phenotypes of the disease.
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Cisneros E, di Marco F, Rueda-Carrasco J, Lillo C, Pereyra G, Martín-Bermejo MJ, Vargas A, Sanchez R, Sandonís Á, Esteve P, Bovolenta P. Sfrp1 deficiency makes retinal photoreceptors prone to degeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5115. [PMID: 32198470 PMCID: PMC7083943 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61970-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from impaired vision, a condition with multiple origins that often impinge upon the light sensing cells of the retina, the photoreceptors, affecting their integrity. The molecular components contributing to this integrity are however not yet fully understood. Here we have asked whether Secreted Frizzled Related Protein 1 (SFRP1) may be one of such factors. SFRP1 has a context-dependent function as modulator of Wnt signalling or of the proteolytic activity of A Disintegrin And Metalloproteases (ADAM) 10, a main regulator of neural cell-cell communication. We report that in Sfrp1−/− mice, the outer limiting membrane (OLM) is discontinuous and the photoreceptors disorganized and more prone to light-induced damage. Sfrp1 loss significantly enhances the effect of the Rpe65Leu450Leu genetic variant -present in the mouse genetic background- which confers sensitivity to light-induced stress. These alterations worsen with age, affect visual function and are associated to an increased proteolysis of Protocadherin 21 (PCDH21), localized at the photoreceptor outer segment, and N-cadherin, an OLM component. We thus propose that SFRP1 contributes to photoreceptor fitness with a mechanism that involves the maintenance of OLM integrity. These conclusions are discussed in view of the broader implication of SFRP1 in neurodegeneration and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Cisneros
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Biología Celular y Patología, Universidad de Salamanca, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León and IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro Universitario Internacional de Madrid (CUNIMAD), Dept. de Biología de Sistemas, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fabiana di Marco
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Concepción Lillo
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Patología, Universidad de Salamanca, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León and IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | | - Alba Vargas
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Sanchez
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - África Sandonís
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Esteve
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paola Bovolenta
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.
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Tait CM, Chinnaiya K, Manning E, Murtaza M, Ashton JP, Furley N, Hill CJ, Alves CH, Wijnholds J, Erdmann KS, Furley A, Rashbass P, Das RM, Storey KG, Placzek M. Crumbs2 mediates ventricular layer remodelling to form the spinal cord central canal. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000470. [PMID: 32150534 PMCID: PMC7108746 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In the spinal cord, the central canal forms through a poorly understood process termed dorsal collapse that involves attrition and remodelling of pseudostratified ventricular layer (VL) cells. Here, we use mouse and chick models to show that dorsal ventricular layer (dVL) cells adjacent to dorsal midline Nestin(+) radial glia (dmNes+RG) down-regulate apical polarity proteins, including Crumbs2 (CRB2) and delaminate in a stepwise manner; live imaging shows that as one cell delaminates, the next cell ratchets up, the dmNes+RG endfoot ratchets down, and the process repeats. We show that dmNes+RG secrete a factor that promotes loss of cell polarity and delamination. This activity is mimicked by a secreted variant of Crumbs2 (CRB2S) which is specifically expressed by dmNes+RG. In cultured MDCK cells, CRB2S associates with apical membranes and decreases cell cohesion. Analysis of Crb2F/F/Nestin-Cre+/- mice, and targeted reduction of Crb2/CRB2S in slice cultures reveal essential roles for transmembrane CRB2 (CRB2TM) and CRB2S on VL cells and dmNes+RG, respectively. We propose a model in which a CRB2S-CRB2TM interaction promotes the progressive attrition of the dVL without loss of overall VL integrity. This novel mechanism may operate more widely to promote orderly progenitor delamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Tait
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Kavitha Chinnaiya
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Manning
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mariyam Murtaza
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - John-Paul Ashton
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Furley
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Chris J Hill
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Kai S Erdmann
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Furley
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Penny Rashbass
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Raman M Das
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Kate G Storey
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Marysia Placzek
- Department of Biomedical Science and Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Ray TA, Cochran KJ, Kay JN. The Enigma of CRB1 and CRB1 Retinopathies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1185:251-255. [PMID: 31884620 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-27378-1_41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the gene Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) are responsible for several retinopathies that are diverse in severity and phenotype. Thus, there is considerable incentive to determine how disruption of this gene causes disease. Progress on this front will aid in developing molecular diagnostics that can predict disease severity with the ultimate goal of developing therapies for CRB1 retinopathies via gene replacement. The purpose of this review is to summarize what is known regarding CRB1 and highlights information outstanding. Doing so will provide a framework toward a thorough understanding of CRB1 at the molecular and protein level with the ultimate goal of deciphering how it contributes to the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Ray
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kelly J Cochran
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeremy N Kay
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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35
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ERG Alteration Due to the rd8 Mutation of the Crb1 Gene in Cln3 +/+ rd8-/rd8- Mice. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020. [PMID: 31884644 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-27378-1_65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Mattapallil et al. described that vendor lines for C57BL/6 N mice may carry the rd8 mutation that leads to an ocular phenotype, which could be mistaken for an induced retinal degeneration. This mouse strain is widely used in ophthalmic research as a background for modeling retinal degeneration. In the process of studying Cln3Δex7/8 knock-in mice on a C57BL/6 N background, we became aware of this issue. The aim of this study thus was to use electroretinography to investigate the age-dependent functional loss in Cln3+/+ rd8-/rd8- mice and compare it to C57BL/6 J mice.The scotopic and photopic amplitudes of the a-wave and b-wave decrease significantly in mutant mice with increasing age, and the implicit time is prolonged. Especially the oscillatory potentials arising from inner retinal interaction seem to be notably affected by the rd8 mutation. Surprisingly, the amplitudes in young C57BL/6 J mice were lower than those measured in C57BL/6 N at any time point.Our results indicate that the rd8 mutation present in C57BL/6 N mice affects the function of the inner and outer retina. This is surprising given that the major retinal morphological alterations due to the rd8 mutation are found in the outer retina.We conclude that the rd8 mutation does affect the retinal function in Cln3+/+ rd8-/rd8- mice in a variable manner. Epigenetic factors and modifying genes lead to a phenotype shift in these mice. Interpreting the results of previous studies in mutant mice on C57BL/6 N background is challenging as comparing results obtained in independent studies or on other mouse backgrounds may be misleading. Using littermates as controls remains the only valid option.
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Retinogenesis of the Human Fetal Retina: An Apical Polarity Perspective. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10120987. [PMID: 31795518 PMCID: PMC6947654 DOI: 10.3390/genes10120987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Crumbs complex has prominent roles in the control of apical cell polarity, in the coupling of cell density sensing to downstream cell signaling pathways, and in regulating junctional structures and cell adhesion. The Crumbs complex acts as a conductor orchestrating multiple downstream signaling pathways in epithelial and neuronal tissue development. These pathways lead to the regulation of cell size, cell fate, cell self-renewal, proliferation, differentiation, migration, mitosis, and apoptosis. In retinogenesis, these are all pivotal processes with important roles for the Crumbs complex to maintain proper spatiotemporal cell processes. Loss of Crumbs function in the retina results in loss of the stratified appearance resulting in retinal degeneration and loss of visual function. In this review, we begin by discussing the physiology of vision. We continue by outlining the processes of retinogenesis and how well this is recapitulated between the human fetal retina and human embryonic stem cell (ESC) or induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal organoids. Additionally, we discuss the functionality of in utero and preterm human fetal retina and the current level of functionality as detected in human stem cell-derived organoids. We discuss the roles of apical-basal cell polarity in retinogenesis with a focus on Leber congenital amaurosis which leads to blindness shortly after birth. Finally, we discuss Crumbs homolog (CRB)-based gene augmentation.
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Alves CH, Boon N, Mulder AA, Koster AJ, Jost CR, Wijnholds J. CRB2 Loss in Rod Photoreceptors Is Associated with Progressive Loss of Retinal Contrast Sensitivity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174069. [PMID: 31438467 PMCID: PMC6747345 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Variations in the Crumbs homolog-1 (CRB1) gene are associated with a wide variety of autosomal recessive retinal dystrophies, including early onset retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). CRB1 belongs to the Crumbs family, which in mammals includes CRB2 and CRB3. Here, we studied the specific roles of CRB2 in rod photoreceptor cells and whether ablation of CRB2 in rods exacerbates the Crb1-disease. Therefore, we assessed the morphological, retinal, and visual functional consequences of specific ablation of CRB2 from rods with or without concomitant loss of CRB1. Our data demonstrated that loss of CRB2 in mature rods resulted in RP. The retina showed gliosis and disruption of the subapical region and adherens junctions at the outer limiting membrane. Rods were lost at the peripheral and central superior retina, while gross retinal lamination was preserved. Rod function as measured by electroretinography was impaired in adult mice. Additional loss of CRB1 exacerbated the retinal phenotype leading to an early reduction of the dark-adapted rod photoreceptor a-wave and reduced contrast sensitivity from 3-months-of-age, as measured by optokinetic tracking reflex (OKT) behavior testing. The data suggest that CRB2 present in rods is required to prevent photoreceptor degeneration and vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nanda Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Aat A Mulder
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Abraham J Koster
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Carolina R Jost
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Quinn PM, Mulder AA, Henrique Alves C, Desrosiers M, de Vries SI, Klooster J, Dalkara D, Koster AJ, Jost CR, Wijnholds J. Loss of CRB2 in Müller glial cells modifies a CRB1-associated retinitis pigmentosa phenotype into a Leber congenital amaurosis phenotype. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 28:105-123. [PMID: 30239717 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Variations in the human Crumbs homolog-1 (CRB1) gene lead to an array of retinal dystrophies including early onset of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) in children. To investigate the physiological roles of CRB1 and CRB2 in retinal Müller glial cells (MGCs), we analysed mouse retinas lacking both proteins in MGC. The peripheral retina showed a faster progression of dystrophy than the central retina. The central retina showed retinal folds, disruptions at the outer limiting membrane, protrusion of photoreceptor nuclei into the inner and outer segment layers and ingression of photoreceptor nuclei into the photoreceptor synaptic layer. The peripheral retina showed a complete loss of the photoreceptor synapse layer, intermingling of photoreceptor nuclei within the inner nuclear layer and ectopic photoreceptor cells in the ganglion cell layer. Electroretinography showed severe attenuation of the scotopic a-wave at 1 month of age with responses below detection levels at 3 months of age. The double knockout mouse retinas mimicked a phenotype equivalent to a clinical LCA phenotype due to loss of CRB1. Localization of CRB1 and CRB2 in non-human primate (NHP) retinas was analyzed at the ultrastructural level. We found that NHP CRB1 and CRB2 proteins localized to the subapical region adjacent to adherens junctions at the outer limiting membrane in MGC and photoreceptors. Our data suggest that loss of CRB2 in MGC aggravates the CRB1-associated RP-like phenotype towards an LCA-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Quinn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Aat A Mulder
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mélissa Desrosiers
- Department of Therapeutics, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris, UMR_S INSERM, CNRS, UMR, Paris, France
| | - Sharon I de Vries
- Department of Axonal Signaling, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Klooster
- Department of Retina Signal Processing, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Department of Therapeutics, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris, UMR_S INSERM, CNRS, UMR, Paris, France
| | - Abraham J Koster
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Carolina R Jost
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, RC Leiden, The Netherlands.,The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Targeted deletion of Crb1/Crb2 in the optic vesicle models key features of leber congenital amaurosis 8. Dev Biol 2019; 453:141-154. [PMID: 31145883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The Crb1 and 2 (Crumbs homolog 1 & 2) genes encode large, single-pass transmembrane proteins essential for the apicobasal polarity and adhesion of epithelial cells. Crb1 mutations cause degenerative retinal diseases in humans, including Leber congenital amaurosis type 8 (LCA8) and retinitis pigmentosa type 12 (RP12). In LCA8, impaired photoreceptor development and/or survival is thought to cause blindness during early infancy, whereas, in RP12, progressive photoreceptor degeneration damages peripheral vision later in life. There are multiple animal models of RP12 pathology, but no experimental model of LCA8 recapitulates the full spectrum of its pathological features. To generate a mouse model of LCA8 and identify the functions of Crb1/2 in developing ocular tissues, we used an mRx-Cre driver to generate allelic combinations that enabled conditional gene ablation from the optic vesicle stage. In this series only Crb1/2 double knockout (dKO) mice exhibited characteristics of human LCA8 disease: locally thickened retina with spots devoid of cells, aberrant positioning of retinal cells, severely disrupted lamination, and depigmented retinal-pigmented epithelium. Retinal defects antedated E12.5, which is far earlier than the stage at which photoreceptor cells mainly differentiate. Most remarkably, Crb1/Crb2 dKO showed a severely attenuated electroretinogram at the eye opening stage. These results suggest that human LCA8 can be modeled in the mouse by simultaneously ablating Crb1/2 from the beginning of eye development. Importantly, they also indicate that LCA8 is caused by malfunction of retinal progenitor cells during early ocular development rather than by defective photoreceptor-Muller glial interaction, a mechanism proposed for RP12.
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Kujawski S, Sonawane M, Knust E. penner/lgl2 is required for the integrity of the photoreceptor layer in the zebrafish retina. Biol Open 2019; 8:8/4/bio041830. [PMID: 31015218 PMCID: PMC6503998 DOI: 10.1242/bio.041830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The vertebrate retina is a complex tissue built from multiple neuronal cell types, which develop from a pseudostratified neuroepithelium. These cells are arranged into a highly organized and stereotypic pattern formed by nuclear and plexiform layers. The process of lamination as well as the maturation and differentiation of photoreceptor cells rely on the establishment and maintenance of apico-basal cell polarity and formation of adhesive junctions. Defects in any of these processes can result in impaired vision and are causally related to a variety of human diseases leading to blindness. While the importance of apical polarity regulators in retinal stratification and disease is well established, little is known about the function of basal regulators in retinal development. Here, we analyzed the role of Lgl2, a basolateral polarity factor, in the zebrafish retina. Lgl2 is upregulated in photoreceptor cells and in the retinal pigment epithelium by 72 h post fertilization. In both cell types, Lgl2 is localized basolaterally. Loss of zygotic Lgl2 does not interfere with retinal lamination or photoreceptor cell polarity or maturation. However, knockdown of both maternal and zygotic Lgl2 leads to impaired cell adhesion. As a consequence, severe layering defects occur in the distal retina, manifested by a breakdown of the outer plexiform layer and the outer limiting membrane. These results define zebrafish Lgl2 as an important regulator of retinal lamination, which, given the high degree of evolutionary conservation, may be preserved in other vertebrates, including human. Summary: Knockdown of penner/lgl2 leads to a breakdown of the outer plexiform layer and the outer limiting membrane in the zebrafish retina due to impaired cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satu Kujawski
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mahendra Sonawane
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Homi Bhabha Road, Navy Nagar, Colaba, Mumbai 400005, India
| | - Elisabeth Knust
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108 01307 Dresden, Germany
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41
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Quinn PM, Buck TM, Mulder AA, Ohonin C, Alves CH, Vos RM, Bialecka M, van Herwaarden T, van Dijk EHC, Talib M, Freund C, Mikkers HMM, Hoeben RC, Goumans MJ, Boon CJF, Koster AJ, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Jost CR, Wijnholds J. Human iPSC-Derived Retinas Recapitulate the Fetal CRB1 CRB2 Complex Formation and Demonstrate that Photoreceptors and Müller Glia Are Targets of AAV5. Stem Cell Reports 2019; 12:906-919. [PMID: 30956116 PMCID: PMC6522954 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human retinal organoids from induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can be used to confirm the localization of proteins in retinal cell types and to test transduction and expression patterns of gene therapy vectors. Here, we compared the onset of CRB protein expression in human fetal retina with human iPSC-derived retinal organoids. We show that CRB2 protein precedes the expression of CRB1 in the developing human retina. Our data suggest the presence of CRB1 and CRB2 in human photoreceptors and Müller glial cells. Thus the fetal CRB complex formation is replicated in hiPSC-derived retina. CRB1 patient iPSC retinal organoids showed disruptions at the outer limiting membrane as found in Crb1 mutant mice. Furthermore, AAV serotype 5 (AAV5) is potent in infecting human Müller glial cells and photoreceptors in hiPSC-derived retinas and retinal explants. Our data suggest that human photoreceptors can be efficiently transduced by AAVs in the presence of photoreceptor segments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Quinn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Thilo M Buck
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Aat A Mulder
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte Ohonin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier M Vos
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monika Bialecka
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa van Herwaarden
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Elon H C van Dijk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mays Talib
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Freund
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Harald M M Mikkers
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rob C Hoeben
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-José Goumans
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Camiel J F Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1000 AE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Abraham J Koster
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Carolina R Jost
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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42
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Quinn PM, Alves CH, Klooster J, Wijnholds J. CRB2 in immature photoreceptors determines the superior-inferior symmetry of the developing retina to maintain retinal structure and function. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 27:3137-3153. [PMID: 29893966 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian apical-basal determinant Crumbs homolog-1 (CRB1) plays a crucial role in retinal structure and function by the maintenance of adherens junctions between photoreceptors and Müller glial cells. Patients with mutations in the CRB1 gene develop retinal dystrophies, including early-onset retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis. Previously, we showed that Crb1 knockout mice developed a slow-progressing retinal phenotype at foci in the inferior retina, although specific ablation of Crb2 in immature photoreceptors leads to an early-onset phenotype throughout the retina. Here, we conditionally disrupted one or both alleles of Crb2 in immature photoreceptors, on a genetic background lacking Crb1, and studied the retinal dystrophies thereof. Our data showed that disruption of one allele of Crb2 in immature photoreceptors caused a substantial aggravation of the Crb1 phenotype in the entire inferior retina. The photoreceptor layer showed early-onset progressive thinning limited to the inferior retina, although the superior retina maintained intact. Surprisingly, disruption of both alleles of Crb2 in immature photoreceptors further aggravated the phenotype. Throughout the retina, photoreceptor synapses were disrupted and photoreceptor nuclei intermingled with nuclei of the inner nuclear layer. In the superior retina, the ganglion cell layer appeared thicker because of ectopic nuclei of photoreceptors. In conclusion, the data suggest that CRB2 is required to maintain retinal progenitor and photoreceptor cell adhesion and prevent photoreceptor ingression into the immature inner retina. We hypothesize, from these animal models, that decreased levels of CRB2 in immature photoreceptors adjust retinitis pigmentosa because of the loss of CRB1 into Leber congenital amaurosis phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Quinn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Klooster
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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43
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Microglial Cell Dysfunction in CRB1-Associated Retinopathies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1185:159-163. [PMID: 31884605 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-27378-1_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases encompass a large group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous diseases estimated to affect two million people worldwide. Among these people, approximately 80,000 are or will become blind in their first decades of life due to mutations in both alleles of the Crumbs homologue-1 (CRB1) gene. Microglia are the resident immune surveyor cells in the retina, and their roles have been heavily studied in several retinal diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa (RP), age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. However, very little is known about the role of microglia in CRB1-associated retinopathies. Thus, we here summarize the main findings described in the literature concerning inflammation and the role of microglia in CRB1-patients and CRB1-rodent models.
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44
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Fu J, Nagashima M, Guo C, Raymond PA, Wei X. Novel Animal Model of Crumbs-Dependent Progressive Retinal Degeneration That Targets Specific Cone Subtypes. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:505-518. [PMID: 29368007 PMCID: PMC5786287 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-22572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Human Crb1 is implicated in some forms of retinal degeneration, suggesting a role in photoreceptor maintenance. Multiple Crumbs (Crb) polarity genes are expressed in vertebrate retina, although their functional roles are not well understood. To gain further insight into Crb and photoreceptor maintenance, we compared retinal cell densities between wild-type and Tg(RH2-2:Crb2b-sfEX/RH2-2:GFP)pt108b transgenic zebrafish, in which the extracellular domain of Crb2b-short form (Crb2b-sfEX) is expressed in the retina as a secreted protein, which disrupts the planar organization of RGB cones (red, green, and blue) by interfering with Crb2a/2b-based cone-cone adhesion. Methods We used standard morphometric techniques to assess age-related changes in retinal cell densities in adult zebrafish (3 to 27 months old), and to assess effects of the Crb2b-sfEX transgene on retinal structure and photoreceptor densities. Linear cell densities were measured in all retinal layers in radial sections with JB4-Feulgen histology. Planar (surface) densities of cones were determined in retinal flat-mounts. Cell counts from wild-type and pt108b transgenic fish were compared with both a “photoreceptor maintenance index” and statistical analysis of cell counts. Results Age-related changes in retinal cell linear densities and cone photoreceptor planar densities in wild-type adult zebrafish provided a baseline for analysis. Expression of Crb2b-sfEX caused progressive and selective degeneration of RGB cones, but had no effect on ultraviolet-sensitive (UV) cones, and increased numbers of rod photoreceptors. Conclusions These differential responses of RGB cones, UV cones, and rods to sustained exposure to Crb2b-sfEX suggest that Crb-based photoreceptor maintenance mechanisms are highly selective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinling Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Mikiko Nagashima
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Chuanyu Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Pamela A Raymond
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Xiangyun Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.,Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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45
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Mucciolo DP, Murro V, Giorgio D, Passerini I, Sodi A, Virgili G, Rizzo S. Long-term follow-up of a CRB1-associated maculopathy. Ophthalmic Genet 2018; 39:522-525. [PMID: 29869924 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2018.1479431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report a long-term follow-up of a CRB1-associated maculopathy. METHODS A case report. RESULTS A 47-year-old man was diagnosed with bilateral maculopathy. The clinical picture and the foveoschisis abnormalities present in the right eye were consistent with X-linked retinoschisis. During the follow-up we observed the spontaneous passage from a foveal schitic shape to a cystic profile and then to atrophic maculopathy. Two pathogenic CRB1 mutations were detected and he was subsequently diagnosed with CRB1-associated maculopathy. CONCLUSIONS Our clinical case allowed us to observe three different stages in the natural history of this particular CRB1-associated macular phenotype: a foveoschisis phenotype, cystoid macular abnormalities involving outer and inner retinal layers and macular atrophy. CRB1 mutations may be a rare cause of foveal schisis which progressively evolves in atrophic maculopathy and the clinician should be aware of this unusual macular phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Pasquale Mucciolo
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Vittoria Murro
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Dario Giorgio
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Ilaria Passerini
- b Department of Genetic Diagnosis , Careggi Teaching Hospital , Florence , Italy
| | - Andrea Sodi
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Gianni Virgili
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
| | - Stanislao Rizzo
- a Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine , University of Florence , Florence , Italy
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46
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Abstract
The Crumbs proteins are evolutionarily conserved apical transmembrane proteins. Drosophila Crumbs was discovered via its crucial role in epithelial polarity during fly embryogenesis. Crumbs proteins have variable extracellular domains but a highly conserved intracellular domain that can bind FERM and PDZ domain proteins. Mammals have three Crumbs genes and this review focuses on Crumbs3, the major Crumbs isoform expressed in mammalian epithelial cells. Although initial work has highlighted the role of Crumbs3 in polarity, more recent studies have found it has an important role in tissue morphogenesis functioning as a linker between the apical membrane and the actin cytoskeleton. In addition, recent publications have linked Crumbs3 to growth control via regulation of the Hippo/Yap pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Margolis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5680
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47
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Khan KN, Robson A, Mahroo OAR, Arno G, Inglehearn CF, Armengol M, Waseem N, Holder GE, Carss KJ, Raymond LF, Webster AR, Moore AT, McKibbin M, van Genderen MM, Poulter JA, Michaelides M. A clinical and molecular characterisation of CRB1-associated maculopathy. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:687-694. [PMID: 29391521 PMCID: PMC5945653 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-017-0082-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, over 150 disease-associated variants in CRB1 have been described, resulting in a range of retinal disease phenotypes including Leber congenital amaurosis and retinitis pigmentosa. Despite this, no genotype–phenotype correlations are currently recognised. We performed a retrospective review of electronic patient records to identify patients with macular dystrophy due to bi-allelic variants in CRB1. In total, seven unrelated individuals were identified. The median age at presentation was 21 years, with a median acuity of 0.55 decimalised Snellen units (IQR = 0.43). The follow-up period ranged from 0 to 19 years (median = 2.0 years), with a median final decimalised Snellen acuity of 0.65 (IQR = 0.70). Fundoscopy revealed only a subtly altered foveal reflex, which evolved into a bull’s-eye pattern of outer retinal atrophy. Optical coherence tomography identified structural changes—intraretinal cysts in the early stages of disease, and later outer retinal atrophy. Genetic testing revealed that one rare allele (c.498_506del, p.(Ile167_Gly169del)) was present in all patients, with one patient being homozygous for the variant and six being heterozygous. In trans with this, one variant recurred twice (p.(Cys896Ter)), while the four remaining alleles were each observed once (p.(Pro1381Thr), p.(Ser478ProfsTer24), p.(Cys195Phe) and p.(Arg764Cys)). These findings show that the rare CRB1 variant, c.498_506del, is strongly associated with localised retinal dysfunction. The clinical findings are much milder than those observed with bi-allelic, loss-of-function variants in CRB1, suggesting this in-frame deletion acts as a hypomorphic allele. This is the most prevalent disease-causing CRB1 variant identified in the non-Asian population to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamron N Khan
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK. .,Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK. .,Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK. .,Department of Ophthalmology, St. James's University Teaching Hospital, Leeds, UK.
| | - Anthony Robson
- Department of Electrophysiology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Omar A R Mahroo
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gavin Arno
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chris F Inglehearn
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Monica Armengol
- Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Naushin Waseem
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Graham E Holder
- Department of Electrophysiology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Keren J Carss
- NIHR BioResource - Rare Diseases, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Haematology, NHS Blood and Transplant Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PT, UK.,Department of Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Lucy F Raymond
- NIHR BioResource - Rare Diseases, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Haematology, NHS Blood and Transplant Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PT, UK.,Department of Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Andrew R Webster
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anthony T Moore
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.,Ophthalmology Department, University of California San Francisco Medical School, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Martin McKibbin
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, St. James's University Teaching Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Maria M van Genderen
- Bartiméus Diagnostic Centre for Complex Visual Disorders, Zeist, The Netherlands.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - James A Poulter
- Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Michel Michaelides
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Inherited Eye Disease Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
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Alves CH, Wijnholds J. AAV Gene Augmentation Therapy for CRB1-Associated Retinitis Pigmentosa. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1715:135-151. [PMID: 29188511 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7522-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the CRB1 gene account for around 10,000 persons with Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and 70,000 persons with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) worldwide. Therefore, the CRB1 gene is a key target in the fight against blindness. A proof-of-concept for an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated CRB2 gene augmentation therapy for CRB1-RP was recently described. Preclinical studies using animal models such as knockout or mutant mice are crucial to obtain such proof-of-concept. In this chapter we describe a technique to deliver AAV vectors, into the murine retinas, via the subretinal route. We also present protocols to detect expression of the therapeutic protein by fluorescence immunohistochemistry and to perform histological studies using ultra-thin sections stained with toluidine blue. These techniques in combination with electroretinography and visual behavior tests are in principle sufficient to obtain proof-of-concept for new gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Henrique Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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49
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Mechanisms of macular edema: Beyond the surface. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 63:20-68. [PMID: 29126927 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 342] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Macular edema consists of intra- or subretinal fluid accumulation in the macular region. It occurs during the course of numerous retinal disorders and can cause severe impairment of central vision. Major causes of macular edema include diabetes, branch and central retinal vein occlusion, choroidal neovascularization, posterior uveitis, postoperative inflammation and central serous chorioretinopathy. The healthy retina is maintained in a relatively dehydrated, transparent state compatible with optimal light transmission by multiple active and passive systems. Fluid accumulation results from an imbalance between processes governing fluid entry and exit, and is driven by Starling equation when inner or outer blood-retinal barriers are disrupted. The multiple and intricate mechanisms involved in retinal hydro-ionic homeostasis, their molecular and cellular basis, and how their deregulation lead to retinal edema, are addressed in this review. Analyzing the distribution of junction proteins and water channels in the human macula, several hypotheses are raised to explain why edema forms specifically in the macular region. "Pure" clinical phenotypes of macular edema, that result presumably from a single causative mechanism, are detailed. Finally, diabetic macular edema is investigated, as a complex multifactorial pathogenic example. This comprehensive review on the current understanding of macular edema and its mechanisms opens perspectives to identify new preventive and therapeutic strategies for this sight-threatening condition.
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50
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Motta FL, Salles MV, Costa KA, Filippelli-Silva R, Martin RP, Sallum JMF. The correlation between CRB1 variants and the clinical severity of Brazilian patients with different inherited retinal dystrophy phenotypes. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8654. [PMID: 28819299 PMCID: PMC5561187 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09035-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies are characterized by progressive retina degeneration and mutations in at least 250 genes have been associated as disease-causing. CRB1 is one of many genes analyzed in molecular diagnosis for inherited retinal dystrophy. Crumbs homolog-1 protein encoded by CRB1 is important for cell-to-cell contact, polarization of epithelial cells and the morphogenesis of photoreceptors. Pathogenic variants in CRB1 lead to a huge variety of phenotypes ranging from milder forms of inherited retinal dystrophy, such as retinitis pigmentosa to more severe phenotypes such as Leber congenital amaurosis. In this study, seven novel likely-pathogenic variants were identified: four missense variants (p.Leu479Pro, p.Ala921Pro, p.Cys948Arg and p.Asp1031Asn), two frameshift deletions (c.2536_2542del7 and c.3460_3461delTG) and one frameshift indel variant (c.276_294delinsTGAACACTGTAC). Furthermore, two patients with cone-rod dystrophy due to mutations in CRB1 were reported, supporting previous data, in which mutations in CRB1 can also cause cone-rod dystrophy. Finally, our data suggested there was a direct relation between phenotype severity and the mutation effect on protein functionality in 15 Brazilian CRB1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Renan Paulo Martin
- Department of Biophysics, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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