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Jin L, Zhang L, Yan C, Liu M, Dean DC, Liu Y. Corneal injury repair and the potential involvement of ZEB1. EYE AND VISION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 11:20. [PMID: 38822380 PMCID: PMC11143703 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-024-00387-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, consisting of three cellular and two non-cellular layers, is the outermost part of the eyeball and frequently injured by external physical, chemical, and microbial insults. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in the repair of corneal injuries. Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), an important transcription factor involved in EMT, is expressed in the corneal tissues. It regulates cell activities like migration, transformation, and proliferation, and thereby affects tissue inflammation, fibrosis, tumor metastasis, and necrosis by mediating various major signaling pathways, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Dysfunction of ZEB1 would impair corneal tissue repair leading to epithelial healing delay, interstitial fibrosis, neovascularization, and squamous cell metaplasia. Understanding the mechanism underlying ZEB1 regulation of corneal injury repair will help us to formulate a therapeutic approach to enhance corneal injury repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116033, China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116033, China
| | - Chunxiao Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116033, China
| | - Mengxin Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116033, China
| | - Douglas C Dean
- James Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
| | - Yongqing Liu
- James Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
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Sugioka K, Nishida T, Murakami J, Itahashi M, Yunoki M, Kusaka S. Substance P promotes transforming growth factor-β-induced collagen synthesis in human corneal fibroblasts. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C1482-C1493. [PMID: 38525537 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00084.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Corneal fibroblasts maintain homeostasis of the corneal stroma by mediating the synthesis and degradation of extracellular collagen, and these actions are promoted by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), respectively. The cornea is densely innervated with sensory nerve fibers that are not only responsible for sensation but also required for physiological processes such as tear secretion and wound healing. Loss or dysfunction of corneal nerves thus impairs corneal epithelial wound healing and can lead to neurotrophic keratopathy. The sensory neurotransmitter substance P (SP) promotes corneal epithelial wound healing by enhancing the stimulatory effects of growth factors and fibronectin. We have now investigated the role of SP in collagen metabolism mediated by human corneal fibroblasts in culture. Although SP alone had no effect on collagen synthesis or degradation by these cells, it promoted the stimulatory effect of TGF-β on collagen type I synthesis without affecting that of IL-1β on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1. This effect of SP on TGF-β-induced collagen synthesis was accompanied by activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and was attenuated by pharmacological inhibition of p38 or of the neurokinin-1 receptor. Our results thus implicate SP as a modulator of TGF-β-induced collagen type I synthesis by human corneal fibroblasts, and they suggest that loss of this function may contribute to the development of neurotrophic keratopathy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study investigates the role of substance P (SP) in collagen metabolism mediated by human corneal fibroblasts in culture. We found that, although SP alone had no effect on collagen synthesis or degradation by corneal fibroblasts, it promoted the stimulatory effect of transforming growth factor-β on collagen type I synthesis without affecting that of interleukin-1β on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Sugioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, Ikoma, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Teruo Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, Ikoma, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan
- Division of Cornea and Ocular Surface, Ohshima Eye Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | | | - Mai Yunoki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, Ikoma, Japan
| | - Shunji Kusaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
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Meissner JM, Chmielińska A, Ofri R, Cisło-Sankowska A, Marycz K. Extracellular Vesicles Isolated from Equine Adipose-Derived Stromal Stem Cells (ASCs) Mitigate Tunicamycin-Induced ER Stress in Equine Corneal Stromal Stem Cells (CSSCs). Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:3251-3277. [PMID: 38666934 PMCID: PMC11048834 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46040204] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal ulcers, characterized by severe inflammation of the cornea, can lead to serious, debilitating complications and may be vision-threatening for horses. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in corneal stem progenitor cell (CSSC) dysfunction and explore the potential of equine adipose-derived stromal stem cell (ASC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) to improve corneal wound healing. We showed that CSSCs expressed high levels of CD44, CD45, and CD90 surface markers, indicating their stemness. Supplementation of the ER-stress-inducer tunicamycin to CSSCs resulted in reduced proliferative and migratory potential, accumulation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stressed cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, increased expression of proinflammatory genes, induced oxidative stress and sustained ER stress, and unfolded protein response (UPR). Importantly, treatment with EVs increased the proliferative activity and number of cells in the G2/Mitosis phase, enhanced migratory ability, suppressed the overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines, and upregulated the anti-inflammatory miRNA-146a-5p, compared to control and/or ER-stressed cells. Additionally, EVs lowered the expression of ER-stress master regulators and effectors (PERK, IRE1, ATF6, and XBP1), increased the number of mitochondria, and reduced the expression of Fis-1 and Parkin, thereby promoting metabolic homeostasis and protecting against apoptosis in equine CSSCs. Our findings demonstrate that MSCs-derived EVs represent an innovative and promising therapeutic strategy for the transfer of bioactive mediators which regulate various cellular and molecular signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna M. Meissner
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology and Animal Science, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Norwida 27B, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Chmielińska
- International Institute of Translational Medicine, Jesionowa 11, Malin, 55-114 Wisznia Mala, Poland; (A.C.); (A.C.-S.)
| | - Ron Ofri
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
| | - Anna Cisło-Sankowska
- International Institute of Translational Medicine, Jesionowa 11, Malin, 55-114 Wisznia Mala, Poland; (A.C.); (A.C.-S.)
| | - Krzysztof Marycz
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology and Animal Science, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Norwida 27B, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland;
- International Institute of Translational Medicine, Jesionowa 11, Malin, 55-114 Wisznia Mala, Poland; (A.C.); (A.C.-S.)
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95516, USA
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Iyer KS, Maruri DP, Schmidtke DW, Petroll WM, Varner VD. Treatment with both TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB disrupts the stiffness-dependent myofibroblast differentiation of corneal keratocytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.29.582803. [PMID: 38496568 PMCID: PMC10942298 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.29.582803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
During corneal wound healing, stromal keratocytes transform into a repair phenotype that is driven by the release of cytokines, like transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). Previous work has shown that TGF-β1 promotes the myofibroblast differentiation of corneal keratocytes in a manner that depends on PDGF signaling. In addition, changes in mechanical properties are known to regulate the TGF-β1-mediated differentiation of cultured keratocytes. While PDGF signaling acts synergistically with TGF-β1 during myofibroblast differentiation, how treatment with multiple growth factors affects stiffness-dependent differences in keratocyte behavior is unknown. Here, we treated primary corneal keratocytes with PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 and cultured them on polyacrylamide (PA) substrata of different stiffnesses. In the presence of TGF-β1 alone, the cells underwent stiffness-dependent myofibroblast differentiation. On stiff substrata, the cells developed robust stress fibers, exhibited high levels of ⍺-SMA staining, formed large focal adhesions (FAs), and exerted elevated contractile forces, whereas cells in a compliant microenvironment showed low levels of ⍺-SMA immunofluorescence, formed smaller focal adhesions, and exerted decreased contractile forces. When the cultured keratocytes were treated simultaneously with PDGF-BB however, increased levels of ⍺-SMA staining and stress fiber formation were observed on compliant substrata, even though the cells did not exhibit elevated contractility or focal adhesion size. Pharmacological inhibition of PDGF signaling disrupted the myofibroblast differentiation of cells cultured on substrata of all stiffnesses. These results indicate that treatment with PDGF-BB can decouple molecular markers of myofibroblast differentiation from the elevated contractile phenotype otherwise associated with these cells, suggesting that crosstalk in the mechanotransductive signaling pathways downstream of TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB can regulate the stiffness-dependent differentiation of cultured keratocytes. Statement of Significance In vitro experiments have shown that changes in ECM stiffness can regulate the differentiation of myofibroblasts. Typically, these assays involve the use of individual growth factors, but it is unclear how stiffness-dependent differences in cell behavior are affected by multiple cytokines. Here, we used primary corneal keratocytes to show that treatment with both TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB disrupts the dependency of myofibroblast differentiation on substratum stiffness. In the presence of both growth factors, keratocytes on soft substrates exhibited elevated ⍺-SMA immunofluorescence without a corresponding increase in contractility or focal adhesion formation. This result suggests that molecular markers of myofibroblast differentiation can be dissociated from the elevated contractile behavior associated with the myofibroblast phenotype, suggesting potential crosstalk in mechanotransductive signaling pathways downstream of TGF-β1 and PDGF-BB.
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Poole K, Iyer KS, Schmidtke DW, Petroll WM, Varner VD. Investigating transcriptional differences in mechanotransductive and ECM related genes in cultured primary corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.28.582620. [PMID: 38464034 PMCID: PMC10925317 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.28.582620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
After a stromal injury in the cornea, the release of growth factors and pro-inflammatory cytokines typically results in the activation of quiescent keratocytes toward migratory fibroblast and/or fibrotic myofibroblast phenotypes. The persistence of the myofibroblast phenotype can lead to corneal fibrosis and scarring, which are leading causes of blindness worldwide. The primary goal of this study was to establish comprehensive transcriptional profiles for cultured corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts to gain insights into the mechanisms through which changes in phenotype may occur. Here, we cultured primary rabbit corneal keratocytes on collagen-coated glass coverslips in serum free media (SF), serum containing media (FBS), or in the presence of TGF-β1 to induce keratocyte, fibroblast, and myofibroblast phenotypes, respectively. Total RNA was collected and sent to Novogene for bulk RNA sequencing. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis included gene expression quantification, differential expression, and functional analysis. When comparing FBS and TGF-β1 conditions to SF, genes characteristic of a quiescent keratocyte phenotype were downregulated (e.g. KERA, LUM, ALDH1A1), while genes commonly associated with fibroblasts or myofibroblasts were upregulated (e.g. VIM, TNC, FN1, ITGA5, ACTA2). Functional analysis of genes differentially expressed between fibroblasts and keratocytes highlighted pathways related to proliferation (e.g. DNA replication, PI3K-Akt signaling) and cell migration (e.g. Rap1 signaling, ECM-receptor interactions). Enriched pathways for the comparison of myofibroblasts to keratocytes included focal adhesion, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, hippo signaling, and ECM-receptor interaction pathways. Together, these pathways support changes in cytoskeletal organization, cell contractility, mechanotransduction, and cell-ECM interactions in myofibroblasts compared to keratocytes. Overall, these data demonstrate that there are distinct transcriptional differences between cultured corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts. In our initial analysis, we have identified genes and signaling pathways that may play important roles in keratocyte differentiation, including many related to proliferation, cell mechanical activity, and ECM interactions. Furthermore, our findings reveal novel markers for each cell type as well as possible targets for modulating cell behavior and differentiation to promote physiological corneal wound healing.
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Wang Q, Zhao X, Yu F, Fang PH, Liu L, Du X, Li W, He D, Bai Y, Li S, Yuan J. Photocurable and Temperature-Sensitive Bioadhesive Hydrogels for Sutureless Sealing of Full-Thickness Corneal Wounds. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2300996. [PMID: 37997553 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Penetrating corneal wounds can cause severe vision impairment and require prompt intervention to restore globe integrity and minimize the risk of infection. Tissue adhesives have emerged as a promising alternative to suturing for mitigating postoperative complications. However, conventional water-soluble adhesives suffer formidable challenges in sealing penetrating corneal wounds due to dilution or loss in a moist environment. Inspired by the robust adhesion of mussels in aquatic conditions, an injectable photocurable bioadhesive hydrogel (referred to as F20HD5) composed of polyether F127 diacrylate and dopamine-modified hyaluronic acid methacrylate is developed for sutureless closure of corneal full-thickness wounds. F20HD5 exhibits high transparency, wound-sealing ability, proper viscosity, biodegradability, and excellent biocompatibility. It allows in situ cross-linking via visible light, thereby providing sufficient mechanical strength and adhesiveness. In vivo, the adhesive hydrogel effectively closed penetrating linear corneal incisions and corneal injuries with minimal tissue loss in rabbits. During the 56-day follow-up, the hydrogel facilitates the repair of the injured corneas, resulting in more symmetrical curvatures and less scarring in distinction to the untreated control. Thus, bioinspired hydrogel holds promise as an effective adhesive for sealing full-thickness corneal wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Fei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Po-Han Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Liu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Xinyue Du
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Weihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Dalian He
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Ying Bai
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre for Functional Biomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Saiqun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Jin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
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Sanie-Jahromi F, Sanie Jahromi MS. In Vitro Effect of Propofol on the Expression of Genes Involved in Inflammation and Apoptosis in Corneal Activated Keratocytes. Cornea 2024; 43:105-110. [PMID: 37702602 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the effect of propofol (0.5, 5, and 50 μM) on the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines [ IL-1β , IL-6 , transforming growth factor β ( TGF-β ), and LIF ] and apoptosis process ( BCL-2 and Bax ) in corneal activated keratocytes (CAKs). METHODS CAKs (10 6 cells/10 cm 2 ) were exposed to propofol at a concentration of 0.5, 5, and 50 μM for 24 hours at 37°C. The control group did not receive propofol at the same time or under the same condition. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) extraction, complementary DNA (cDNA) synthesis, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed to quantify the relative expression of IL-1β , IL-6 , TGF-β , LIF , BCL-2 , and Bax expression in the treated versus control cells. RESULT The results of this study showed that propofol treatment (0.5 and 5 μM) led to the downregulation of IL-1β and IL-6 gene expression in CAKs. TGF-β (with a role in fibrogenesis) was not changed in 0.5 and 5 μM propofol-treated CAKs, whereas CAKs treated with 50 μM propofol showed upregulation of the TGF-β gene. LIF (with a role in regeneration) was upregulated in 0.5 and 5 μM propofol-treated CAKs. The BCL-2/Bax ratio (as the antiapoptosis index) was increased in CAKs treated with 0.5 μM propofol and indicated the induction of an antiapoptotic effect. CONCLUSIONS We showed that CAKs treatment with propofol, at concentrations of 0.5 and 5 μM, could decrease the expression of genes related to inflammation and enhance the genes associated with cell regeneration. While 50 μM propofol treatment might induce CAK fibrogenesis. This proof-of-concept study could preserve a groundwork for future drug design for the treatment of corneal stromal diseases and ocular regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Shiraz, Iran; and
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Chameettachal S, Venuganti A, Parekh Y, Prasad D, Joshi VP, Vashishtha A, Basu S, Singh V, Bokara KK, Pati F. Human cornea-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel for prevention of post-traumatic corneal scarring: A translational approach. Acta Biomater 2023; 171:289-307. [PMID: 37683964 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.002] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Corneal scarring and opacification are a significant cause of blindness affecting millions worldwide. The current standard of care for corneal blindness is corneal transplantation, which suffers from several drawbacks. One alternative approach that has shown promise is the use of xenogeneic corneal extracellular matrix (ECM), but its clinical applicability is challenging due to safety concerns. This study reports the innovative use of human cornea-derived ECM to prevent post-traumatic corneal scarring. About 30 - 40% of corneas donated to the eye banks do not meet the standards defined for clinical use and are generally discarded, although they are completely screened for their safety. In this study, human cornea-derived decellularized ECM hydrogel was prepared from the non-transplantation grade human cadaveric corneas obtained from an accredited eye-bank. The prepared hydrogel was screened for its efficacy against corneal opacification following an injury in an animal model. Our in vivo study revealed that, the control collagen-treated group developed corneal opacification, while the prophylactic application of human cornea-derived hydrogel effectively prevented corneal scarring and opacification. The human hydrogel-treated corneas were indistinguishable from healthy corneas and comparable to those treated with the xenogeneic bovine corneal hydrogel. We also demonstrated that the application of the hydrogel retained the biological milieu including cell behavior, protein components, optical properties, curvature, and nerve regeneration by remodeling the corneal wound after injury. The hydrogel application is also sutureless, resulting in faster corneal healing. We envision that this human cornea-derived ECM-based hydrogel has potential clinical application in preventing scarring from corneal wounding. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: There are significant challenges surrounding corneal regeneration after injury due to extensive scarring. Although there is substantial research on corneal regeneration, much of it uses synthetic materials with chemical cross-linking methods or xenogeneic tissue-based material devices which have to undergo exhaustive safety analysis before clinical trials. Herein, we demonstrate the potential application of a human corneal extracellular matrix hydrogel without any additional materials for scarless corneal tissue regeneration, and a method to reduce the wasting of donated allogenic corneal tissue from eye banks. We found no difference in efficacy between the usage of human tissues compared to xenogeneic sources. This may help ease clinical translation and can be used topically without sutures as an outpatient procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibu Chameettachal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | - Animith Venuganti
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Yash Parekh
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Deeksha Prasad
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Vineet P Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India; Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Anviti Vashishtha
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sayan Basu
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Vivek Singh
- Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Kiran Kumar Bokara
- CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, ANNEXE II, Medical Biotechnology Complex, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Falguni Pati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India.
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Acosta AC, Joud H, Sun M, Avila MY, Margo CE, Espana EM. Keratocyte-Derived Myofibroblasts: Functional Differences With Their Fibroblast Precursors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:9. [PMID: 37796488 PMCID: PMC10561788 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.13.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose In this study, we aim to elucidate functional differences between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts derived from a keratocyte lineage to better understand corneal scarring. Methods Corneal fibroblasts, derived from a novel triple transgenic conditional KeraRT/tetO-Cre/mTmG mouse strain that allows isolation and tracking of keratocyte lineage, were expanded, and transformed by exposure to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 to myofibroblasts. The composition and organization of a fibroblast-built matrix, deposited by fibroblasts in vitro, was analyzed and compared to the composition of an in vitro matrix built by myofibroblasts. Second harmonic generation microscopy (SHG) was used to study collagen organization in deposited matrix. Different extracellular matrix proteins, expressed by fibroblasts or myofibroblasts, were analyzed and quantified. Functional assays compared latent (TGF-β) activation, in vitro wound healing, chemotaxis, and proliferation between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Results We found significant differences in cell morphology between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Fibroblasts expressed and deposited significantly higher quantities of fibril forming corneal collagens I and V. In contrast, myofibroblasts expressed and deposited higher quantities of fibronectin and other non-collagenous matrix components. A significant difference in the activation of latent TGF-β activation exists between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts when measured with a functional luciferase assay. Fibroblasts and myofibroblasts differ in their morphology, extracellular matrix synthesis, and deposition, activation of latent TGF-β, and chemotaxis. Conclusions The differences in the expression and deposition of extracellular matrix components by fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are likely related to critical roles they play during different stages of corneal wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Acosta
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| | - Hadi Joud
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| | - Mei Sun
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| | - Marcel Y. Avila
- Departamento de Oftalmologia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Curtis E. Margo
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
- Department of Pathology and Cellular Biology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
| | - Edgar M. Espana
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States
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Sanie-Jahromi F, Mohsenzadeh AH, Namjoyan F, Gharegezloo Z, Nejabat M. Effect of adlay seed extract on inflammation and fibrogenesis in human corneal activated keratocytes at transcriptional level. Exp Eye Res 2023; 235:109641. [PMID: 37696465 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Corneal activated keratocytes (CAKs) -representing the injured phenotype of corneal stromal cells- are associated with several corneal diseases. Inflammatory cytokines are the key drivers of CAK formation subsequently leading to fibrogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of adlay seed extract on the expression of genes involved in inflammation (IL-6, IL-1b, LIF) and fibrogenesis (TGF-β) in CAK cells. CAKs (106 cells/10 cm2) were exposed to methanolic (MeOH) and residual (Res) extract of adlay seed (1 mg/ml, 24 h). The control group received the vehicle solution without extract at the same time and condition. Then, RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and real-time PCR were performed to quantify the relative expression of IL-6, IL-1b, LIF, and TGF-β in the treated vs. control cells. This study showed that the MeOH extract of adlay seed could significantly downregulate the expression of IL-6 and IL-1b in the CAKs, while the Res extract led to a significant decrease in TGF-β gene expression. We showed that CAK treatment with adlay seed extract could decrease the expression of genes related to inflammation and fibrogenesis. However, the genes to be targeted depended on the method of extraction. This proof-of-concept study could provide groundwork for the treatment of corneal stromal diseases and ocular regenerative medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Amir Hossein Mohsenzadeh
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Foroogh Namjoyan
- Pharmacognosy Department, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Gharegezloo
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Mahmood Nejabat
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Sanie-Jahromi F, Nowroozzadeh MH, Emadi Z, Eghtedari M, Khajehahmadi Z. Intra-stromal injection of honey-treated keratocytes as a cell-based therapy for experimental corneal laceration. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 20:604-611. [PMID: 37277938 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2023-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the potential of honey-supplemented medium (HSM) for expanding corneal keratocytes and its transplantation in a model of corneal laceration. METHODS Keratocytes were cultured in 1 % HSM- or 10 % fetal bovine serum (FBS)-supplemented medium for 24 h. The effect of HSM on keratocyte proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay. The relative expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1, known markers of native keratocytes, was quantified by real-time PCR. The safety and efficacy of HSM-treated keratocyte intrastromal injection in a rabbit model of corneal laceration were also evaluated. RESULTS The MTT assay showed that HSM treatment did not significantly affect cell viability compared to FBS-supplemented medium (84.71 ± 2.38 vs. 100.08 ± 10.92, respectively; p=0.076). Moreover, HSM-treated keratocytes had significantly increased expression of Lum, Kera, and ALDH3A1 compared to cells treated with FBS, while the expression of the proliferation biomarker Thy-1 did not significantly differ between the two treatments. Intrastromal injection of HSM-treated keratocytes in the laceration animal model was safe and uneventful, resulting in less stromal inflammation and neovascularization, and consequently, better final architecture with less residual haze compared to the group injected with FBS-treated keratocytes. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that honey is a suitable supplement for keratocyte treatment and corneal cell therapy. The use of HSM may have potential applications in the treatment of corneal injuries and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sanie-Jahromi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - M Hossein Nowroozzadeh
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Emadi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Eghtedari
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Khajehahmadi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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12
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Acosta AC, Sun M, Zafrullah N, Avila MY, Margo CE, Espana EM. Stromal matrix directs corneal fibroblasts to re-express keratocan after injury and transplantation. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050090. [PMID: 37702214 PMCID: PMC10508697 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Every tissue has an extracellular matrix (ECM) with certain properties unique to it - the tissue 'niche' - that are necessary for normal function. A distinct specific population of quiescent keratocan-expressing keratocytes populate the corneal stroma during homeostasis to maintain corneal function. However, during wound healing, when there is alteration of the niche conditions, keratocytes undergo apoptosis, and activated corneal fibroblasts and myofibroblasts attempt to restore tissue integrity and function. It is unknown what the fate of activated and temporary fibroblasts and myofibroblasts is after the wound healing process has resolved. In this study, we used several strategies to elucidate the cellular dynamics of corneal wound healing and the fate of corneal fibroblasts. We injured the cornea of a novel mouse model that allows cell-lineage tracing, and we transplanted a cell suspension of in vitro-expanded corneal fibroblasts that could be tracked after being relocated into normal stroma. These transplanted fibroblasts regained expression of keratocan in vivo when relocated to a normal stromal niche. These findings suggest that transformed fibroblasts maintain plasticity and can be induced to a keratocyte phenotype once relocated to an ECM with normal signaling ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Acosta
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, USF Health, 13330 USF Laurel Dr 4th floor, Tampa FL 33612, USA
| | - Mei Sun
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, USF Health, 13330 USF Laurel Dr 4th floor, Tampa FL 33612, USA
| | - Nabeel Zafrullah
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, USF Health, 13330 USF Laurel Dr 4th floor, Tampa FL 33612, USA
| | - Marcel Y. Avila
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Department of Ophthalmology, Bogota 111311, Colombia
| | - Curtis E. Margo
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, USF Health, 13330 USF Laurel Dr 4th floor, Tampa FL 33612, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cellular Biology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Edgar M. Espana
- Cornea and External Disease, Department of Ophthalmology, USF Health, 13330 USF Laurel Dr 4th floor, Tampa FL 33612, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, FL 33612, USA
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13
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Yang F, Dong Y, Bai C, Alzogool M, Wang Y. Bibliometric and visualized analysis of myopic corneal refractive surgery research: from 1979 to 2022. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1141438. [PMID: 37575980 PMCID: PMC10416457 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1141438] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Myopic corneal refractive surgery is one of the most prevalent ophthalmic procedures for correcting ametropia. This study aimed to perform a bibliometric analysis of research in the field of corneal refractive surgery over the past 40 years in order to describe the current international status and to identify most influential factors, while highlighting research hotspots. Methods A bibliometric analysis based on the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) was used to analyze the publication trends in research related to myopic corneal refractive surgery. VOSviewer v.1.6.10 was used to construct the knowledge map in order to visualize the publications, distribution of countries, international collaborations, author productivity, source journals, cited references, keywords, and research hotspots in this field. Results A total of 4,680 publications on myopic corneal refractive surgery published between 1979 and 2022 were retrieved. The United States has published the most papers, with Emory University contributing to the most citations. The Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery published the greatest number of articles, and the top 10 cited references mainly focused on outcomes and wound healing in refractive surgery. Previous research emphasized "radial keratotomy (RK)" and excimer laser-associated operation methods. The keywords containing femtosecond (FS) laser associated with "small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE)" and its "safety" had higher burst strength, indicating a shift of operation methods and coinciding with the global trends in refractive surgery. The document citation network was clustered into five groups: (1) outcomes of refractive surgery: (2) preoperative examinations for refractive surgery were as follows: (3) complications of myopic corneal refractive surgery; (4) corneal wound healing and cytobiology research related to photorefractive laser keratotomy; and (5) biomechanics of myopic corneal refractive surgery. Conclusion The bibliometric analysis in this study may provide scholars with valuable to information and help them better understand the global trends in myopic corneal refractive surgery research frontiers. Two stages of rapid development occurred around 1991 and 2013, shortly after the innovation of PRK and SMILE surgical techniques. The most cited articles mainly focused on corneal wound healing, clinical outcomes, ocular aberration, corneal ectasia, and corneal topography, representing the safety of the new techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Bai
- Department of General Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Mohammad Alzogool
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Nankai Eye Institute, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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14
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Wilson SE. The corneal fibroblast: The Dr. Jekyll underappreciated overseer of the responses to stromal injury. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:53-62. [PMID: 37080483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the functions of corneal fibroblasts in wound healing. METHODS Literature review. RESULTS Corneal fibroblasts arise in the corneal stroma after anterior, posterior or limbal injuries and are derived from keratocytes. Transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 and TGFβ2, along with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), are the major modulators of the keratocyte to corneal fibroblast transition, while fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2, TGFβ3, and retinoic acid are thought to regulate the transition of corneal fibroblasts back to keratocytes. Adequate and sustained levels of TGFβ1 and/or TGFβ2, primarily from epithelium, tears, aqueous humor, and corneal endothelium, drive the development of corneal fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts have been shown in vitro to transition back to corneal fibroblasts, although apoptosis of myofibroblasts has been documented as a major contributor to the resolution of fibrosis in several in situ corneal injury models. Corneal fibroblasts, aside from their role as a major progenitor to myofibroblasts, also perform many critical functions in the injured cornea, including the production of critical basement membrane (BM) components during regeneration of the epithelial BM and Descemet's membrane, production of non-basement membrane-associated stromal collagen type IV to control and downregulate TGFβ effects on stromal cells, release of chemotactic chemokines that attract bone marrow-derived cells to the injured stroma, production of growth factors that modulate regeneration and maturation of the overlying epithelium, and production of collagens and other ECM components that contribute to stromal integrity after injury. CONCLUSIONS Corneal fibroblasts are major contributors to and overseers of the corneal response to injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- The Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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15
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Ghiasi M, Hashemi M, Salimi A, Jadidi K, Tavallaie M, Aghamollaei H. Combination of natural scaffolds and conditional medium to induce the differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells into keratocyte-like cells and its safety evaluation in the animal cornea. Tissue Cell 2023; 82:102117. [PMID: 37267821 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102117] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Keratocytes are the main cellular components of the corneal stroma. This cell is quiescent and cannot be cultured easily. The aim of this study was to investigate differentiate human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) into corneal keratocyte cells by combining natural scaffolds and conditioned medium (CM) and evaluating their safety in the rabbit's cornea. Keratocytes were cultured in an optimal culture medium and this medium was collected and kept as a CM. hADSCs were cultured on the decellularized human small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) lenticule (SL), amniotic membrane (AM), and collagen-coated plates, and were exposed to keratocyte-CM (KCM) for 7, 14, and 21 days. Differentiation was evaluated using Real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry (ICC). hADSCs were cultured on the SL scaffolds and implanted in the corneal stroma of 8 New Zealand male rabbits. Rabbits were followed for 3 months and the safety was evaluated by clinical and histological variables. Real-time PCR results showed a significant increase in the expression of keratocyte-specific markers on the 21 day of differentiation compared to the control group. ICC also confirmed the induction of differentiation. Implantation of SLs containing differentiated cells in the cornea of animals showed no serious complications including neovascularization, corneal opacity, inflammation, or signs of tissue rejection. Furthermore, the evaluation of the presence of keratocyte-like cells after three months in the rabbit stroma was confirmed by Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis. Our results showed that combination of combination of corneal extracellular matrix and KCM can induced keratocytes differentiation of hADSC and can be introduced as a alternative method to supply the required keratocytes in corneal tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Ghiasi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Science Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Salimi
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khosrow Jadidi
- Vision Health Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Mahmood Tavallaie
- Human Genetics Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Aghamollaei
- Chemical Injures Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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16
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Surovtseva MA, Kim II, Bondarenko NA, Lykov AP, Krasner KY, Chepeleva EV, Bgatova NP, Trunov AN, Chernykh VV, Poveshchenko OV. Derivation of Human Corneal Keratocytes from ReLEx SMILE Lenticules for Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108828. [PMID: 37240176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108828] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts isolated and expanded from ReLEx SMILE lenticules can be a source of human keratocytes. Since corneal keratocytes are quiescent cells, it is difficult to expand them in vitro in suitable numbers for clinical and experimental use. In the present study, this problem was solved by isolating and growing corneal fibroblasts (CFs) with a high proliferative potential and their reversion to keratocytes in a selective serum-free medium. Fibroblasts reversed into keratocytes (rCFs) had a dendritic morphology and ultrastructural signs of activation of protein synthesis and metabolism. The cultivation of CFs in a medium with 10% FCS and their reversion into keratocytes was not accompanied by the induction of myofibroblasts. After reversion, the cells spontaneously formed spheroids and expressed keratocan and lumican markers, but not mesenchymal ones. The rCFs had low proliferative and migratory activity, and their conditioned medium contained a low level of VEGF. CF reversion was not accompanied by a change with the levels of IGF-1, TNF-alpha, SDF-1a, and sICAM-1. In the present study, it has been demonstrated that fibroblasts from ReLEx SMILE lenticules reverse into keratocytes in serum-free KGM, maintaining the morphology and functional properties of primary keratocytes. These keratocytes have a potential for tissue engineering and cell therapy of various corneal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Surovtseva
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Irina I Kim
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Natalia A Bondarenko
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander P Lykov
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Kristina Yu Krasner
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Novosibirsk Branch of S. Fedorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, 10 Kalkhidskaya Str., 630096 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena V Chepeleva
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Nataliya P Bgatova
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander N Trunov
- Novosibirsk Branch of S. Fedorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, 10 Kalkhidskaya Str., 630096 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valery V Chernykh
- Novosibirsk Branch of S. Fedorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, 10 Kalkhidskaya Str., 630096 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Olga V Poveshchenko
- Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Lymphology-Branch of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Timakova Str., 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia
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17
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Peng Y, Bui CH, Zhang XJ, Chen JS, Tham CC, Chu WK, Chen LJ, Pang CP, Yam JC. The role of EZH2 in ocular diseases: a narrative review. Epigenomics 2023; 15:557-570. [PMID: 37458071 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
EZH2, acting as a catalytic subunit of PRC2 to catalyze lysine 27 in histone H3, induces the suppression of gene expression. EZH2 can regulate cell proliferation and differentiation of retinal progenitors, which are required for physiological retinal development. Meanwhile, an abnormal level of EZH2 has been observed in ocular tumors and other pathological tissues. This review summarizes the current knowledge on EZH2 in retinal development and ocular diseases, including inherited retinal diseases, ocular tumors, corneal injury, cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related retinal degeneration. We highlight the potential of targeting EZH2 as a precision therapeutic target in ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Christine Ht Bui
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Xiu J Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jian S Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410000, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410000, China
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510000, China
| | - Clement C Tham
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Wai K Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Li J Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Chi P Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jason C Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, 999077, Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Hub of Paediatric Excellence, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
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18
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Donovan C, Sun M, Cogswell D, Margo CE, Avila MY, Espana EM. Genipin increases extracellular matrix synthesis preventing corneal perforation. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:115-123. [PMID: 36871831 PMCID: PMC10440284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal melting and perforation are feared sight-threatening complications of infections, autoimmune disease, and severe burns. Assess the use of genipin in treating stromal melt. METHODS A model for corneal wound healing was created through epithelial debridement and mechanical burring to injure the corneal stromal matrix in adult mice. Murine corneas were then treated with varying concentrations of genipin, a natural occurring crosslinking agent, to investigate the effects that matrix crosslinking using genipin has in wound healing and scar formation. Genipin was used in patients with active corneal melting. RESULTS Corneas treated with higher concentrations of genipin were found to develop denser stromal scarring in a mouse model. In human corneas, genipin promoted stromal synthesis and prevention of continuous melt. Genipin mechanisms of action create a favorable environment for upregulation of matrix synthesis and corneal scarring. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that genipin increases matrix synthesis and inhibits the activation of latent transforming growth factor-β. These findings are translated to patients with severe corneal melting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mei Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, USA
| | | | - Curtis E Margo
- Department of Ophthalmology, USA; Pathology and Cell Biology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Marcel Y Avila
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Edgar M Espana
- Department of Ophthalmology, USA; Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, USA.
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19
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Tavakkoli F, Eleiwa TK, Elhusseiny AM, Damala M, Rai AK, Cheraqpour K, Ansari MH, Doroudian M, H Keshel S, Soleimani M, Djalilian AR, Sangwan VS, Singh V. Corneal stem cells niche and homeostasis impacts in regenerative medicine; concise review. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023:11206721221150065. [PMID: 36604831 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221150065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The limbal stem cells niche (LSCN) is an optimal microenvironment that provides the limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) and strictly regulates their proliferation and differentiation. Disturbing the LSCN homeostasis can lead to limbal stem cell dysfunction (LSCD) and subsequent ocular surface aberrations, such as corneal stromal inflammation, persistent epithelial defects, corneal neovascularisation, lymphangiogenesis, corneal opacification, and conjunctivalization. As ocular surface disorders are considered the second main cause of blindness, it becomes crucial to explore different therapeutic strategies for restoring the functions of the LSCN. A major limitation of corneal transplantation is the current shortage of donor tissue to meet the requirements worldwide. In this context, it becomes mandatory to find an alternative regenerative medicine, such as using cultured limbal epithelial/stromal stem cells, inducing the production of corneal like cells by using other sources of stem cells, and using tissue engineering methods aiming to produce the three-dimensional (3D) printed cornea. Limbal epithelial stem cells have been considered the magic potion for eye treatment. Epithelial and stromal stem cells in the limbal niche hold the responsibility of replenishing the corneal epithelium. These stem cells are being used for transplantation to maintain corneal epithelial integrity and ultimately sustain optimal vision. In this review, we summarised the characteristics of the LSCN and their current and future roles in restoring corneal homeostasis in eyes with LSCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tavakkoli
- Department of Community Health, College of Health Technology, Cihan University, Erbil, Iraq.,SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India.,Centre for Genetic Disorders, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Taher K Eleiwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Abdelrahman M Elhusseiny
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Mukesh Damala
- SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India.,School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Amit K Rai
- Centre for Genetic Disorders, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Kasra Cheraqpour
- Translational Eye Research Center, Farabi Eye Hospital, 48439Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Ansari
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Labbafinejad Medical Center, 556492Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Doroudian
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, 145440Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed H Keshel
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, 556492Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soleimani
- Department of Ophthalmology, 159636Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ali R Djalilian
- Department of Ophthalmology, 159636Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Vivek Singh
- SSR Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, Centre for Ocular Regeneration, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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20
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The Yin and Yang of Mesenchymal Cells in the Corneal Stromal Fibrosis Response to Injury: The Cornea as a Model of Fibrosis in Other Organs. Biomolecules 2022; 13:biom13010087. [PMID: 36671472 PMCID: PMC9855862 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal cells (keratocytes, corneal fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts), as well as mesenchymal progenitor bone marrow-derived fibrocytes, are the major cellular contributors to stromal fibrosis after injury to the cornea. Corneal fibroblasts, in addition to being major progenitors to myofibroblasts, also have anti-fibrotic functions in (1) the production of non-basement membrane collagen type IV that binds activated transforming growth factor (TGF) beta-1 and TGF beta-2 to downregulate TGF beta effects on cells in the injured stroma, (2) the production of chemokines that modulate the entry of bone marrow-derived cells into the stroma, (3) the production of hepatocyte growth factor and keratinocyte growth factor to regulate corneal epithelial healing, (4) the cooperation with the epithelium or corneal endothelium in the regeneration of the epithelial basement membrane and Descemet's membrane, and other functions. Fibrocytes also serve as major progenitors to myofibroblasts in the corneal stroma. Thus, mesenchymal cells and mesenchymal cell progenitors serve Yin and Yang functions to inhibit and promote tissue fibrosis depending on the overall regulatory milieu within the injured stroma.
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21
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Alcalde I, Sánchez-Fernández C, Del Olmo-Aguado S, Martín C, Olmiere C, Artime E, Quirós LM, Merayo-Lloves J. Synthetic Heparan Sulfate Mimetic Polymer Enhances Corneal Nerve Regeneration and Wound Healing after Experimental Laser Ablation Injury in Mice. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14224921. [PMID: 36433048 PMCID: PMC9694493 DOI: 10.3390/polym14224921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Abnormal corneal wound healing compromises visual acuity and can lead to neuropathic pain. Conventional treatments usually fail to restore the injured corneal tissue. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of a synthetic heparan sulfate mimetic polymer (HSmP) in a mouse model of corneal wound healing. (2) Methods: A surgical laser ablation affecting the central cornea and subbasal nerve plexus of mice was used as a model of the wound-healing assay. Topical treatment with HSmP was contrasted to its vehicle and a negative control (BSS). Corneal repair was studied using immunofluorescence to cell proliferation (Ki67), apoptosis (TUNEL assay), myofibroblast transformation (αSMA), assembly of epithelial cells (E-cadherin) and nerve regeneration (β-tubulin III). (3) Results: At the end of the treatment, normal epithelial cytoarchitecture and corneal thickness were achieved in HSmP-treated animals. HSmP treatment reduced myofibroblast occurrence compared to eyes irrigated with vehicle (p < 0.01) or BSS (p < 0.001). The HSmP group showed 50% more intraepithelial nerves than the BSS or vehicle groups. Only HSmP-treated corneas improved the visual quality to near transparent. (4) Conclusions: These results suggest that HSmP facilitates the regeneration of the corneal epithelium and innervation, as well as restoring transparency and reducing myofibroblast scarring after laser experimental injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Alcalde
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Cristina Sánchez-Fernández
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Susana Del Olmo-Aguado
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carla Martín
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Céline Olmiere
- Laboratoires Thea S.A.S., 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Enol Artime
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Luis M. Quirós
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jesús Merayo-Lloves
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, University of Oviedo, 33012 Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
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22
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Hou XW, Wang Y, Wu Q, Ke C, Pan CW. A review of study designs and data analyses in metabolomics studies in myopia. Anal Biochem 2022; 655:114850. [PMID: 35970413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Metabolomics analyzes the entire range of small molecule metabolites in biological systems to reveal the response signals that are transmitted from "genetics and environment", which could help us understand complex phenotypes of diseases. Metabolomics has been successfully applied to the study of eye diseases including age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. In this review, we summarize the findings of myopic metabolomics and discuss them from a design and analysis perspective. Finally, we provide new ideas for the future development of myopia metabolomics research based on the broader ocular metabolomics study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Hou
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qian Wu
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chaofu Ke
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chen-Wei Pan
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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23
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Mekonnen T, Lin X, Zevallos-Delgado C, Singh M, Aglyamov SR, Coulson-Thomas V, Larin KV. Longitudinal assessment of the effect of alkali burns on corneal biomechanical properties using optical coherence elastography. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2022; 15:e202200022. [PMID: 35460537 PMCID: PMC11057918 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202200022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Eye injury due to alkali burn is a severe ocular trauma that can profoundly affect corneal structure and function, including its biomechanical properties. Here, we assess the changes in the mechanical behavior of mouse corneas in response to alkali-induced injury by conducting longitudinal measurements using optical coherence elastography (OCE). A non-contact air-coupled ultrasound transducer was used to induce elastic waves in control and alkali-injured mouse corneas in vivo, which were imaged with phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography. Corneal mechanical properties were estimated using a modified Rayleigh-Lamb wave model, and results show that Young's modulus of alkali-burned corneas were significantly greater than that of their healthy counterparts on days 7 (p = 0.029) and 14 (p = 0.026) after injury. These findings, together with the changes in the shear viscosity coefficient postburn, indicate that the mechanical properties of the alkali-burned cornea are significantly modulated during the wound healing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taye Mekonnen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Room 2027, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Xiao Lin
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204‑2020, USA
| | - Christian Zevallos-Delgado
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Room 2027, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Room 2027, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Salavat R. Aglyamov
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Vivien Coulson-Thomas
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204‑2020, USA
| | - Kirill V. Larin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, 3517 Cullen Blvd., Room 2027, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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24
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Iyer KS, Maruri DP, Peak KE, Schmidtke DW, Petroll WM, Varner VD. ECM stiffness modulates the proliferation but not the motility of primary corneal keratocytes in response to PDGF-BB. Exp Eye Res 2022; 220:109112. [PMID: 35595094 PMCID: PMC10163834 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
During corneal wound healing, keratocytes present within the corneal stroma become activated into a repair phenotype upon the release of growth factors, such as transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). The process of injury and repair can lead to changes in the mechanical properties of the tissue, and previous work has shown that the TGF-β1-mediated myofibroblast differentiation of corneal keratocytes depends on substratum stiffness. It is still unclear, however, if changes in stiffness can modulate keratocyte behavior in response to other growth factors, such as PDGF-BB. Here, we used a polyacrylamide (PA) gel system to determine whether changes in stiffness influence the proliferation and motility of primary corneal keratocytes treated with PDGF-BB. In the presence of PDGF-BB, cells on stiffer substrata exhibited a more elongated morphology and had higher rates of proliferation than cells in a more compliant microenvironment. Using a freeze-injury to assay cell motility, however, we did not observe any stiffness-dependent differences in the migration of keratocytes treated with PDGF-BB. Taken together, these data highlight the importance of biophysical cues during corneal wound healing and suggest that keratocytes respond differently to changes in ECM stiffness in the presence of different growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krithika S Iyer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Daniel P Maruri
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Kara E Peak
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - David W Schmidtke
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA; Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - W Matthew Petroll
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Victor D Varner
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA; Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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25
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Combined Therapy Using Human Corneal Stromal Stem Cells and Quiescent Keratocytes to Prevent Corneal Scarring after Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136980. [PMID: 35805991 PMCID: PMC9267074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal blindness due to scarring is conventionally treated by corneal transplantation, but the shortage of donor materials has been a major issue affecting the global success of treatment. Pre-clinical and clinical studies have shown that cell-based therapies using either corneal stromal stem cells (CSSC) or corneal stromal keratocytes (CSK) suppress corneal scarring at lower levels. Further treatments or strategies are required to improve the treatment efficacy. This study examined a combined cell-based treatment using CSSC and CSK in a mouse model of anterior stromal injury. We hypothesize that the immuno-regulatory nature of CSSC is effective to control tissue inflammation and delay the onset of fibrosis, and a subsequent intrastromal CSK treatment deposited collagens and stromal specific proteoglycans to recover a native stromal matrix. Using optimized cell doses, our results showed that the effect of CSSC treatment for suppressing corneal opacities was augmented by an additional intrastromal CSK injection, resulting in better corneal clarity. These in vivo effects were substantiated by a further downregulated expression of stromal fibrosis genes and the restoration of stromal fibrillar organization and regularity. Hence, a combined treatment of CSSC and CSK could achieve a higher clinical efficacy and restore corneal transparency, when compared to a single CSSC treatment.
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26
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Maruri DP, Iyer KS, Schmidtke DW, Petroll WM, Varner VD. Signaling Downstream of Focal Adhesions Regulates Stiffness-Dependent Differences in the TGF- β1-Mediated Myofibroblast Differentiation of Corneal Keratocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:886759. [PMID: 35693927 PMCID: PMC9177138 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.886759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Following injury and refractive surgery, corneal wound healing can initiate a protracted fibrotic response that interferes with ocular function. This fibrosis is related, in part, to the myofibroblast differentiation of corneal keratocytes in response to transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). Previous studies have shown that changes in the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) can regulate this process, but the mechanotransductive pathways that govern stiffness-dependent changes in keratocyte differentiation remain unclear. Here, we used a polyacrylamide (PA) gel system to investigate how mechanosensing via focal adhesions (FAs) regulates the stiffness-dependent myofibroblast differentiation of primary corneal keratocytes treated with TGF-β1. Soft (1 kPa) and stiff (10 kPa) PA substrata were fabricated on glass coverslips, plated with corneal keratocytes, and cultured in defined serum free media with or without exogenous TGF-β1. In some experiments, an inhibitor of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) activation was also added to the media. Cells were fixed and stained for F-actin, as well as markers for myofibroblast differentiation (α-SMA), actomyosin contractility phosphorylated myosin light chain (pMLC), focal adhesions (vinculin), or Smad activity (pSmad3). We also used traction force microscopy (TFM) to quantify cellular traction stresses. Treatment with TGF-β1 elicited stiffness-dependent differences in the number, size, and subcellular distribution of FAs, but not in the nuclear localization of pSmad3. On stiff substrata, cells exhibited large FAs distributed throughout the entire cell body, while on soft gels, the FAs were smaller, fewer in number, and localized primarily to the distal tips of thin cellular extensions. Larger and increased numbers of FAs correlated with elevated traction stresses, increased levels of α-SMA immunofluorescence, and more prominent and broadly distributed pMLC staining. Inhibition of FAK disrupted stiffness-dependent differences in keratocyte contractility, FA patterning, and myofibroblast differentiation in the presence of TGF-β1. Taken together, these data suggest that signaling downstream of FAs has important implications for the stiffness-dependent myofibroblast differentiation of corneal keratocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P. Maruri
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
| | - Krithika S. Iyer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
| | - David W. Schmidtke
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States,Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - W. Matthew Petroll
- Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Victor D. Varner
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States,Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States,*Correspondence: Victor D. Varner,
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27
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Ma J, Bi L, Spurlin J, Lwigale P. Nephronectin-Integrin α8 signaling is required for proper migration of periocular neural crest cells during chick corneal development. eLife 2022; 11:74307. [PMID: 35238772 PMCID: PMC8916771 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During development, cells aggregate at tissue boundaries to form normal tissue architecture of organs. However, how cells are segregated into tissue precursors remains largely unknown. Cornea development is a perfect example of this process whereby neural crest cells aggregate in the periocular region prior to their migration and differentiation into corneal cells. Our recent RNA-seq analysis identified upregulation of nephronectin (Npnt) transcripts during early stages of corneal development where its function has not been investigated. We found that Npnt mRNA and protein are expressed by various ocular tissues, including the migratory periocular neural crest (pNC), which also express the integrin alpha 8 (Itgα8) receptor. Knockdown of either Npnt or Itgα8 attenuated cornea development, whereas overexpression of Npnt resulted in cornea thickening. Moreover, overexpression of Npnt variants lacking RGD-binding sites did not affect corneal thickness. Neither the knockdown nor augmentation of Npnt caused significant changes in cell proliferation, suggesting that Npnt directs pNC migration into the cornea. In vitro analyses showed that Npnt promotes pNC migration from explanted periocular mesenchyme, which requires Itgα8, focal adhesion kinase, and Rho kinase. Combined, these data suggest that Npnt augments cell migration into the presumptive cornea extracellular matrix by functioning as a substrate for Itgα8-positive pNC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Ma
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, United States
| | - Lian Bi
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, United States
| | - James Spurlin
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, United States
| | - Peter Lwigale
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, United States
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28
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Kumar A, Yun H, Funderburgh ML, Du Y. Regenerative therapy for the Cornea. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 87:101011. [PMID: 34530154 PMCID: PMC8918435 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.101011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is the outmost layer of the eye, unique in its transparency and strength. The cornea not only transmits the light essential for vision, also refracts light, giving focus to images. Each of the three layers of the cornea has properties essential for the function of vision. Although the epithelium can often recover from injury quickly by cell division, loss of limbal stem cells can cause severe corneal surface abnormalities leading to corneal blindness. Disruption of the stromal extracellular matrix and loss of cells determining this structure, the keratocytes, leads to corneal opacity. Corneal endothelium is the inner part of the cornea without self-renewal capacity. It is very important to maintain corneal dehydration and transparency. Permanent damage to the corneal stroma or endothelium can be effectively treated by corneal transplantation; however, there are drawbacks to this procedure, including a shortage of donors, the need for continuing treatment to prevent rejection, and limits to the survival of the graft, averaging 10-20 years. There exists a need for new strategies to promote regeneration of the stromal structure and restore vision. This review highlights critical contributions in regenerative medicine with the aim of corneal reconstruction after injury or disease. These approaches include corneal stromal stem cells, corneal limbal stem cells, embryonic stem cells, and other adult stem cells, as well as induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem cell-derived trophic factors in the forms of secretomes or exosomes for corneal regeneration are also discussed. Corneal sensory nerve regeneration promoting corneal transparency is discussed. This article provides description of the up-to-date options for corneal regeneration and presents exciting possible avenues for future studies toward clinical applications for corneal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Hongmin Yun
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | | | - Yiqin Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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29
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De Rossi G, Da Vitoria Lobo ME, Greenwood J, Moss SE. LRG1 as a novel therapeutic target in eye disease. Eye (Lond) 2022; 36:328-340. [PMID: 34987199 PMCID: PMC8807626 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-021-01807-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal and choroidal diseases are major causes of blindness and visual impairment in the developed world and on the rise due to an ageing population and diabetes epidemic. Standard of care is centred around blockade of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), but despite having halved the number of patients losing sight, a high rate of patient non-response and loss of efficacy over time are key challenges. Dysregulation of vascular homoeostasis, coupled with fibrosis and inflammation, are major culprits driving sight-threatening eye diseases. Improving our knowledge of these pathological processes should inform the development of new drugs to address the current clinical challenges for patients. Leucine-rich α-2 glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) is an emerging key player in vascular dysfunction, inflammation and fibrosis. Under physiological conditions, LRG1 is constitutively expressed by the liver and granulocytes, but little is known about its normal biological function. In pathological scenarios, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD), its expression is ectopically upregulated and it acquires a much better understood pathogenic role. Context-dependent modulation of the transforming growth-factor β (TGFβ) pathway is one of the main activities of LRG1, but additional roles have recently been emerging. This review aims to highlight the clinical and pre-clinical evidence for the pathogenic contribution of LRG1 to vascular retinopathies, as well as extrapolate from other diseases, functions which may be relevant to eye disease. Finally, we will provide a current update on the development of anti-LRG1 therapies for the treatment of nvAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia De Rossi
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
| | | | - John Greenwood
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Stephen E Moss
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
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30
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Rajaiya J, Saha A, Zhou X, Chodosh J. Human Adenovirus Species D Interactions with Corneal Stromal Cells. Viruses 2021; 13:2505. [PMID: 34960773 PMCID: PMC8709199 DOI: 10.3390/v13122505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Notable among the many communicable agents known to infect the human cornea is the human adenovirus, with less than ten adenoviruses having corneal tropism out of more than 100 known types. The syndrome of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC), caused principally by human adenovirus, presents acutely with epithelial keratitis, and later with stromal keratitis that can be chronic and recurrent. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the molecular biology of adenovirus infection of corneal stromal cells, among which the fibroblast-like keratocyte is the most predominant, in order to elucidate basic pathophysiologic mechanisms of stromal keratitis in the human patient with EKC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Rajaiya
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (A.S.); (X.Z.)
| | | | | | - James Chodosh
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (A.S.); (X.Z.)
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31
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Charpentier S, Keilani C, Maréchal M, Friang C, De Faria A, Froussart-Maille F, Delbarre M. Corneal haze post photorefractive keratectomy. J Fr Ophtalmol 2021; 44:1425-1438. [PMID: 34538661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2021.05.006] [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: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Corneal haze represents subepithelial corneal fibrosis, a manifestation of a pathological healing process. It occurs as a result of an epithelial-stromal lesion involving a break in the epithelial barrier. It is an inflammatory response that involves the migration, multiplication and differentiation of keratocytes into mature myofibroblasts, causing loss of corneal transparency. Although it is a transient phenomenon, this complication is feared following refractive photokeratectomy (PRK), because it can cause alterations in the quality of vision, refractive regression and decreased visual acuity. The severity of these symptoms is correlated with the severity of the corneal haze, which can be assessed clinically or by objective means such as corneal densitometry measurement. The frequency and severity of corneal haze increase with the depth of photoablation in PRK and are therefore increased during the treatment of severe ametropia. Considering that no consensus exists, the application of mitomycin C (MMC) intraoperatively and topical corticosteroids postoperatively are conventionally used to inhibit collagen synthesis, sometimes in combination with various protocols depending on the center or surgeon. This review of the literature reports the current knowledge on corneal haze, in order to better understand it and optimise its prevention in the context of a decreased MMC supply, which has occurred in the past and could recur in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Charpentier
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Bégin, 69, avenue de Paris, 94163 Saint-Mandé Cedex, France.
| | - C Keilani
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France
| | - M Maréchal
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; Centre principal d'expertise du personnel naviguant, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France
| | - C Friang
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; Centre principal d'expertise du personnel naviguant, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France
| | - A De Faria
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; Centre principal d'expertise du personnel naviguant, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France
| | - F Froussart-Maille
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; Centre principal d'expertise du personnel naviguant, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; École du Val-de-Grâce, 1, place Alphonse Laveran, 75230 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - M Delbarre
- Service ophtalmologie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Percy, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France; Centre principal d'expertise du personnel naviguant, BP 406, 92141 Clamart Cedex, France
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Sharma B, Soni D, Mohan RR, Sarkar D, Gupta R, Chauhan K, Karkhur S, Morya AK. Corticosteroids in the Management of Infectious Keratitis: A Concise Review. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2021; 37:452-463. [PMID: 34448619 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2021.0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial keratitis is devastating corneal morbidity with a variable spectrum of clinical manifestations depending on the infective etiology. Irrespective of the varied presentation delayed treatment can lead to severe visual impairment resulting from corneal ulceration, possible perforation, and subsequent scarring. Corticosteroids with a potent anti-inflammatory activity reduce host inflammation, thus minimizing resultant scarring while improving ocular symptoms. These potential effects of corticosteroids have been applied widely to treat various corneal diseases ranging from vernal keratoconjunctivitis to dry eye disease. However, antimicrobial therapy remains the mainstay of treatment in microbial keratitis, whereas the use of adjunctive topical corticosteroid therapy remains a matter of debate. Understandably, the use of topical corticosteroids is a double-edged sword with pros and cons in the treatment of microbial keratitis. Herein we review the rationale for and against the use and safety of topical corticosteroids in the treatment of infective keratitis. Important considerations, including type, dose, efficacy, the timing of initiation of corticosteroids, use of concomitant antimicrobial agents, and duration of corticosteroid therapy while prescribing corticosteroids for microbial keratitis, have been discussed. This review intends to provide new insights into the therapeutic utility of steroids as adjunctive treatment of corneal ulcer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana Sharma
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Deepak Soni
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Deepayan Sarkar
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Rituka Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Khushboo Chauhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Samendra Karkhur
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India
| | - Arvind K Morya
- Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
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Stachon T, Omar Ali M, Latta L, Huessein GH, Mohamed TA, Soliman W, Seitz B, Szentmáry N. Effect of Thyroxine on Transforming Growth Factor β1, Collagen I, and V Expression in Keratoconus Corneal Fibroblasts and Keratocytes, in Vitro. Curr Eye Res 2021; 47:206-213. [PMID: 34407700 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2021.1967403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Keratoconus (KC) is a corneal disorder, associated with oxidative stress, hypoxia and as several times discussed, potentially with thyroid gland dysfunction. We aimed to investigate the effect of thyroxine on transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), collagen I and V (Col I and V) expression in human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) and human keratocytes of KC corneas, in vitro. METHODS Primary human KC-keratocytes and normal keratocytes were isolated and cultured as corneal fibroblasts or keratocytes. The effect of 0.1 µg/ml and 1.0 µg/ml thyroxine on TGF-β1, Col I and Col V expression was investigated by qPCR, Western blot, and ELISA. Proliferation assay was performed using BrdU ELISA to observe the 24h effect of 1.0 µg/ml thyroxine on keratocytes, in vitro. RESULTS TGFB1 mRNA expression of normal keratocytes increased following 1.0 µg/ml thyroxine stimulation for 24 h (p = .036), without changes in protein expression. Col I protein expression of KC-HCFs increased following 1.0 µg/ml thyroxine stimulation for 24 h (p = .0003). Proliferation of normal and KC keratocytes increased following a 7-day growth period and 24 hours thyroxine administration (p = .018; p = .024). CONCLUSIONS Thyroxine may affect the Col I protein expression in KC-HCFs, but not in KC keratocytes, in vitro. Thyroxine administration has no effect on TGF-β1, collagen I and V expression of keratoconus keratocytes. Therefore, an increased thyroxine concentration alone seems not to be causally related to the development of keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Stachon
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Marwa Omar Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Lorenz Latta
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | | | - Tarek A Mohamed
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Wael Soliman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Nóra Szentmáry
- Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell and Aniridia Research, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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McKay TB, Guo X, Hutcheon AEK, Karamichos D, Ciolino JB. Methods for Investigating Corneal Cell Interactions and Extracellular Vesicles In Vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 89:e114. [PMID: 32986311 DOI: 10.1002/cpcb.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Science and medicine have become increasingly "human-centric" over the years. A growing shift away from the use of animals in basic research has led to the development of sophisticated in vitro models of various tissues utilizing human-derived cells to study physiology and disease. The human cornea has likewise been modeled in vitro using primary cells derived from corneas obtained from cadavers or post-transplantation. By utilizing a cell's intrinsic ability to maintain its tissue phenotype in a pre-designed microenvironment containing the required growth factors, physiological temperature, and humidity, tissue-engineered corneas can be grown and maintained in culture for relatively long periods of time on the scale of weeks to months. Due to its transparency and avascularity, the cornea is an optimal tissue for studies of extracellular matrix and cell-cell interactions, toxicology and permeability of drugs, and underlying mechanisms of scarring and tissue regeneration. This paper describes methods for the cultivation of corneal keratocytes, fibroblasts, epithelial, and endothelial cells for in vitro applications. We also provide detailed, step-by-step protocols for assembling and culturing 3D constructs of the corneal stroma, epithelial- and endothelial-stromal co-cultures and isolation of extracellular vesicles. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Isolating and culturing human corneal keratocytes and fibroblasts Basic Protocol 2: Isolating and culturing human corneal epithelial cells Basic Protocol 3: Isolating and culturing human corneal endothelial cells Basic Protocol 4: 3D corneal stromal construct assembly Basic Protocol 5: 3D corneal epithelial-stromal construct assembly Basic Protocol 6: 3D corneal endothelial-stromal construct assembly Basic Protocol 7: Isolating extracellular vesicles from corneal cell conditioned medium Support Protocol: Cryopreserving human corneal fibroblasts, corneal epithelial cells, and corneal endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina B McKay
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xiaoqing Guo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Audrey E K Hutcheon
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and The North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Joseph B Ciolino
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Ozek D, Karaca EE, Kazanci B, Evren Kemer O. Evaluation of Corneal Densitometry and Endothelial Layer in Soft Contact Lens Users. Optom Vis Sci 2021; 98:592-596. [PMID: 34081651 DOI: 10.1097/opx.0000000000001707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Soft contact lens wear may lead to physiological changes in the cornea. Corneal densitometry is a new software tool that may detect these physiological changes by monitoring their effects on corneal transparency. PURPOSE This study aimed to assess corneal densitometry values and corneal endothelium in patients using soft contact lenses. METHODS The study included 36 eyes of 36 subjects with soft contact lens use (group 1) and 36 eyes of 36 healthy control subjects (group 2). Anterior segment parameters and corneal densitometry of all subjects were evaluated using Scheimpflug corneal topography (Pentacam; Oculus Inc., Wetzlar, Germany). A total corneal area of 12 mm was divided into four annular zones (0 to 2, 2 to 6, 6 to 10, and 10 to 12 mm) and into three regions as anterior, central, and posterior for densitometry examination. Cell density, cell distribution, and cell morphology (quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, and other cell percentages) of the endothelial layer were examined in both groups using specular microscopy (Nidek CEM 530; Nidek Co., Gamagori, Aichi, Japan). RESULTS In group 1, the mean duration of contact lens wear was 4.45 ± 2.15 years. The anterior segment parameters were not significantly different between the two groups (P > .05). The anterior 0- to 2- and 2- to 6-mm corneal densitometry values were significantly higher in group 1 compared with group 2 (23.2 ± 4.7 for group 1 and 17.3 ± 5.6 for group 2 [P = .03]; 22.4 ± 6.4 for group 1 and 17.8 ± 1.4 for group 2 [P = .03], respectively). There were no significant differences between the groups for corneal densitometry values between 6 and 12 mm, or for cell density, cell distribution, and cell morphology (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS Although the cornea remains transparent in soft contact lens wearers, corneal densitometry may increase in the 0- to 6-mm annular zone of the anterior region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Burcu Kazanci
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulucanlar Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Evren Kemer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulucanlar Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Fernández-Pérez J, Madden PW, Brady RT, Nowlan PF, Ahearne M. The effect of prior long-term recellularization with keratocytes of decellularized porcine corneas implanted in a rabbit anterior lamellar keratoplasty model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245406. [PMID: 34061862 PMCID: PMC8168847 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decellularized porcine corneal scaffolds are a potential alternative to human cornea for keratoplasty. Although clinical trials have reported promising results, there can be corneal haze or scar tissue. Here, we examined if recellularizing the scaffolds with human keratocytes would result in a better outcome. Scaffolds were prepared that retained little DNA (14.89 ± 5.56 ng/mg) and demonstrated a lack of cytotoxicity by in vitro. The scaffolds were recellularized using human corneal stromal cells and cultured for between 14 in serum-supplemented media followed by a further 14 days in either serum free or serum-supplemented media. All groups showed full-depth cell penetration after 14 days. When serum was present, staining for ALDH3A1 remained weak but after serum-free culture, staining was brighter and the keratocytes adopted a native dendritic morphology with an increase (p < 0.05) of keratocan, decorin, lumican and CD34 gene expression. A rabbit anterior lamellar keratoplasty model was used to compare implanting a 250 μm thick decellularized lenticule against one that had been recellularized with human stromal cells after serum-free culture. In both groups, host rabbit epithelium covered the implants, but transparency was not restored after 3 months. Post-mortem histology showed under the epithelium, a less-compact collagen layer, which appeared to be a regenerating zone with some α-SMA staining, indicating fibrotic cells. In the posterior scaffold, ALDH1A1 staining was present in all the acellular scaffold, but in only one of the recellularized lenticules. Since there was little difference between acellular and cell-seeded scaffolds in our in vivo study, future scaffold development should use acellular controls to determine if cells are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter W. Madden
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Robert Thomas Brady
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter F. Nowlan
- School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ahearne
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Jhanji V, Billig I, Yam GHF. Cell-Free Biological Approach for Corneal Stromal Wound Healing. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:671405. [PMID: 34122095 PMCID: PMC8193853 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.671405] [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: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Corneal opacification is the fourth most common cause of blindness globally behind cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. The standard treatment of serious corneal scarring is corneal transplantation. Though it is effective for restoring vision, the treatment outcome is not optimal, due to limitations such as long-term graft survival, lifelong use of immunosuppressants, and a loss of corneal strength. Regulation of corneal stromal wound healing, along with inhibition or downregulation of corneal scarring is a promising approach to prevent corneal opacification. Pharmacological approaches have been suggested, however these are fraught with side effects. Tissue healing is an intricate process that involves cell death, proliferation, differentiation, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Current research on stromal wound healing is focused on corneal characteristics such as the immune response, angiogenesis, and cell signaling. Indeed, promising new technologies with the potential to modulate wound healing are under development. In this review, we provide an overview of cell-free strategies and some approaches under development that have the potential to control stromal fibrosis and scarring, especially in the context of early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Jhanji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Isabelle Billig
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gary Hin-Fai Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Liao K, Cui Z, Zeng Y, Liu J, Wang Y, Wang Z, Tang S, Chen J. Inhibition of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 prevents corneal myofibroblast transformation in vitro. Exp Eye Res 2021; 208:108611. [PMID: 33992624 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corneal fibroblast can be transformed into corneal myofibroblasts by TGF-β1. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) upregulation has been observed in the occurrence of other fibrotic disorders. We investigated the role of EZH2 in the progression of corneal fibrosis and the antifibrotic effect of EZH2 inhibition in corneal fibroblasts (CFs). METHODS Primary CFs were isolated from corneal limbi and the CFs were treated with TGF-β1 to induce fibrosis. EPZ-6438 and EZH2 siRNA were used to inhibit EZH2 expression. Myofibroblast activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis was detected by quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining assay. The functions of myofibroblast were evaluated by cell migration and collagen gel contraction assays. Molecular mechanisms involved in EZH2 inhibition were investigated by RNA sequencing. RESULTS TGF-β1 activated EZH2 expression in CFs. Treatment with EPZ-6438 (5 μM) and EZH2 siRNA considerably suppressed corneal myofibroblast activation and ECM protein synthesis in CFs induced by TGF-β1 when compared to the control group. EPZ-6438 (5 μM) suppressed cell migration and gel contraction in CFs. RNA sequencing results revealed that antifibrotic genes were activated after EZH2 inhibition to suppress corneal myofibroblast activation. CONCLUSION Inhibition of EZH2 suppresses corneal myofibroblast activation and ECM protein synthesis, and could serve as a novel therapeutic target for preventing corneal scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liao
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yini Wang
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhijie Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, China; Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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Expression and Function of ZEB1 in the Cornea. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040925. [PMID: 33923743 PMCID: PMC8074155 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ZEB1 is an important transcription factor for epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and in the regulation of cell differentiation and transformation. In the cornea, ZEB1 presents in all three layers: the epithelium, the stroma and the endothelium. Mutations of ZEB1 have been linked to multiple corneal genetic defects, particularly to the corneal dystrophies including keratoconus (KD), Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), and posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD). Accumulating evidence indicates that dysfunction of ZEB1 may affect corneal stem cell homeostasis, and cause corneal cell apoptosis, stromal fibrosis, angiogenesis, squamous metaplasia. Understanding how ZEB1 regulates the initiation and progression of these disorders will help us in targeting ZEB1 for potential avenues to generate therapeutics to treat various ZEB1-related disorders.
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Cheung IM, Mcghee CN, Sherwin T. A new perspective on the pathobiology of keratoconus: interplay of stromal wound healing and reactive species‐associated processes. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 96:188-96. [DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella My Cheung
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Charles Nj Mcghee
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
| | - Trevor Sherwin
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand,
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Wilson SE. Interleukin-1 and Transforming Growth Factor Beta: Commonly Opposing, but Sometimes Supporting, Master Regulators of the Corneal Wound Healing Response to Injury. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:8. [PMID: 33825855 PMCID: PMC8039470 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.4.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Interleukin (IL)-1α/IL-1β and transforming growth factor (TGF)β1/TGFβ2 have both been promoted as “master regulators” of the corneal wound healing response due to the large number of processes each regulates after injury or infection. The purpose of this review is to highlight the interactions between these systems in regulating corneal wound healing. Methods We conducted a systematic review of the literature. Results Both regulator pairs bind to receptors expressed on keratocytes, corneal fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts, as well as bone marrow-derived cells that include fibrocytes. IL-1α and IL-1β modulate healing functions, such as keratocyte apoptosis, chemokine production by corneal fibroblasts, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) production by keratocytes and corneal fibroblasts, expression of metalloproteinases and collagenases by corneal fibroblasts, and myofibroblast apoptosis. TGFβ1 and TGFβ2 stimulate the development of myofibroblasts from keratocyte and fibrocyte progenitor cells, and adequate stromal levels are requisite for the persistence of myofibroblasts. Conversely, TGFβ3, although it functions via the same TGF beta I and II receptors, may, at least in some circumstances, play a more antifibrotic role—although it also upregulates the expression of many profibrotic genes. Conclusions The overall effects of these two growth factor-cytokine-receptor systems in controlling the corneal wound healing response must be coordinated during the wound healing response to injury or infection. The activities of both systems must be downregulated in coordinated fashion to terminate the response to injury and eliminate fibrosis. Translational Relevance A better standing of the IL-1 and TGFβ systems will likely lead to better approaches to control the excessive healing response to infections and injuries leading to scarring corneal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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Efron N, Hollingsworth JG. New perspectives on keratoconus as revealed by corneal confocal microscopy. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 91:34-55. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1444-0938.2007.00195.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Efron
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Optometry, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Wang S, Maruri DP, Boothby JM, Lu X, Rivera-Tarazona LK, Varner VD, Ware TH. Anisotropic, porous hydrogels templated by lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals. J Mater Chem B 2021; 8:6988-6998. [PMID: 32626869 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb00904k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Approaches to control the microstructure of hydrogels enable the control of cell-material interactions and the design of stimuli-responsive materials. We report a versatile approach for the synthesis of anisotropic polyacrylamide hydrogels using lyotropic chromonic liquid crystal (LCLC) templating. The orientational order of LCLCs in a mold can be patterned by controlling surface anchoring conditions, which in turn patterns the polymer network. The resulting hydrogels have tunable pore size and mechanical anisotropy. For example, the elastic moduli measured parallel and perpendicular to the LCLC order are 124.9 ± 6.4 kPa and 17.4 ± 1.1 kPa for a single composition. The resulting anisotropic hydrogels also have 30% larger swelling normal to the LCLC orientation than along the LCLC orientation. By patterning the LCLC order, this anisotropic swelling can be used to create 3D hydrogel structures. These anisotropic gels can also be functionalized with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and used as compliant substrata for cell culture. As an illustrative example, we show that the patterned hydrogel microstructure can be used to direct the orientation of cultured human corneal fibroblasts. This strategy to make anisotropic hydrogels has potential for enabling patternable tissue scaffolds, soft robotics, or microfluidic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suitu Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA.
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Saßmannshausen M, Herwig-Carl MC, Holz FG, Loeffler KU. ["Acute" keratoconus?]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 119:400-402. [PMID: 33688970 PMCID: PMC9005386 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01355-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Saßmannshausen
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127 Bonn, Deutschland
- Sektion Ophthalmopathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Martina C. Herwig-Carl
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127 Bonn, Deutschland
- Sektion Ophthalmopathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Frank G. Holz
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127 Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Karin U. Loeffler
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Str. 2, 53127 Bonn, Deutschland
- Sektion Ophthalmopathologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
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Sprenkeler EGG, Guenther C, Faisal I, Kuijpers TW, Fagerholm SC. Molecular Mechanisms of Leukocyte Migration and Its Potential Targeting-Lessons Learned From MKL1/SRF-Related Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:615477. [PMID: 33692789 PMCID: PMC7938309 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.615477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Megakaryoblastic leukemia 1 (MKL1) deficiency is one of the most recently discovered primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) caused by cytoskeletal abnormalities. These immunological “actinopathies” primarily affect hematopoietic cells, resulting in defects in both the innate immune system (phagocyte defects) and adaptive immune system (T-cell and B-cell defects). MKL1 is a transcriptional coactivator that operates together with serum response factor (SRF) to regulate gene transcription. The MKL/SRF pathway has been originally described to have important functions in actin regulation in cells. Recent results indicate that MKL1 also has very important roles in immune cells, and that MKL1 deficiency results in an immunodeficiency affecting the migration and function of primarily myeloid cells such as neutrophils. Interestingly, several actinopathies are caused by mutations in genes which are recognized MKL(1/2)-dependent SRF-target genes, namely ACTB, WIPF1, WDR1, and MSN. Here we summarize these and related (ARPC1B) actinopathies and their effects on immune cell function, especially focusing on their effects on leukocyte adhesion and migration. Furthermore, we summarize recent therapeutic efforts targeting the MKL/SRF pathway in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelien G G Sprenkeler
- Department of Blood Cell Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carla Guenther
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Imrul Faisal
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taco W Kuijpers
- Department of Blood Cell Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Susanna C Fagerholm
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Guérin LP, Le-Bel G, Desjardins P, Couture C, Gillard E, Boisselier É, Bazin R, Germain L, Guérin SL. The Human Tissue-Engineered Cornea (hTEC): Recent Progress. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031291. [PMID: 33525484 PMCID: PMC7865732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Each day, about 2000 U.S. workers have a job-related eye injury requiring medical treatment. Corneal diseases are the fifth cause of blindness worldwide. Most of these diseases can be cured using one form or another of corneal transplantation, which is the most successful transplantation in humans. In 2012, it was estimated that 12.7 million people were waiting for a corneal transplantation worldwide. Unfortunately, only 1 in 70 patients received a corneal graft that same year. In order to provide alternatives to the shortage of graftable corneas, considerable progress has been achieved in the development of living corneal substitutes produced by tissue engineering and designed to mimic their in vivo counterpart in terms of cell phenotype and tissue architecture. Most of these substitutes use synthetic biomaterials combined with immortalized cells, which makes them dissimilar from the native cornea. However, studies have emerged that describe the production of tridimensional (3D) tissue-engineered corneas using untransformed human corneal epithelial cells grown on a totally natural stroma synthesized by living corneal fibroblasts, that also show appropriate histology and expression of both extracellular matrix (ECM) components and integrins. This review highlights contributions from laboratories working on the production of human tissue-engineered corneas (hTECs) as future substitutes for grafting purposes. It overviews alternative models to the grafting of cadaveric corneas where cell organization is provided by the substrate, and then focuses on their 3D counterparts that are closer to the native human corneal architecture because of their tissue development and cell arrangement properties. These completely biological hTECs are therefore very promising as models that may help understand many aspects of the molecular and cellular mechanistic response of the cornea toward different types of diseases or wounds, as well as assist in the development of novel drugs that might be promising for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis-Philippe Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Gaëtan Le-Bel
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Pascale Desjardins
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Camille Couture
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Elodie Gillard
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Élodie Boisselier
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Richard Bazin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Lucie Germain
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Département de Chirurgie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Sylvain L. Guérin
- CUO-Recherche, Médecine Régénératrice—Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; (L.-P.G.); (G.L.-B.); (P.D.); (C.C.); (E.G.); (É.B.); (R.B.); (L.G.)
- Centre de Recherche en Organogénèse Expérimentale de l’Université Laval/LOEX, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Département d’Ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-418-682-7565
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Sugioka K, Fukuda K, Nishida T, Kusaka S. The fibrinolytic system in the cornea: A key regulator of corneal wound healing and biological defense. Exp Eye Res 2021; 204:108459. [PMID: 33493476 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is a relatively unique tissue in the body in that it possesses specific features such as a lack of blood vessels that contribute to its transparency. The cornea is supplied with soluble blood components such as albumin, globulin, and fibrinogen as well as with nutrients, oxygen, and bioactive substances by diffusion from aqueous humor and limbal vessels as well as a result of its exposure to tear fluid. The healthy cornea is largely devoid of cellular components of blood such as polymorphonuclear leukocytes, monocytes-macrophages, and platelets. The location of the cornea at the ocular surface renders it susceptible to external insults, and its avascular nature necessitates the operation of healing and defense mechanisms in a manner independent of a direct blood supply. The fibrinolytic system, which was first recognized for its role in the degradation of fibrin clots in the vasculature, has also been found to contribute to various biological processes outside of blood vessels. Fibrinolytic factors thus play an important role in biological defense of the cornea. In this review, we address the function of the fibrinolytic system in corneal defense including wound healing and the inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Sugioka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, 1248-1 Otodacho, Ikoma City, Nara, 630-0293, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osakasayama City, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan.
| | - Ken Fukuda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku City, Kochi, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Teruo Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Nara Hospital, 1248-1 Otodacho, Ikoma City, Nara, 630-0293, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Minami-Kogushi, Ube City, Yamaguchi, 755-8505, Japan; Division of Cornea and Ocular Surface, Ohshima Eye Hospital, 11-8 Kamigofukumachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, 812-0036, Japan
| | - Shunji Kusaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-higashi, Osakasayama City, Osaka, 589-8511, Japan
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Raghunathan V, Edwards SG, Leonard BC, Kim S, Evashenk AT, Song Y, Rewinski E, Marangakis Price A, Hoehn A, Chang C, Reilly CM, Muppala S, Murphy CJ, Thomasy SM. Differential effects of Hsp90 inhibition on corneal cells in vitro and in vivo. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108362. [PMID: 33220237 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The transformation of quiescent keratocytes to activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts (KFM transformation) largely depends on transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling. Initiation of the TGFβ signaling cascade results from binding of TGFβ to the labile type I TGFβ receptor (TGFβRI), which is stabilized by the 90 kDa heat shock protein (Hsp90). Since myofibroblast persistence within the corneal stroma can result in stromal haze and corneal fibrosis in patients undergoing keratorefractive therapy, modulation of TGFβ signaling through Hsp90 inhibition would represent a novel approach to prevent myofibroblast persistence. In vitro, rabbit corneal fibroblasts (RCFs) or stratified immortalized human corneal epithelial cells (hTCEpi) were treated with a Hsp90 inhibitor (17AAG) in the presence/absence of TGFβ1. RCFs were cultured either on tissue culture plastic, anisotropically patterned substrates, and hydrogels of varying stiffness. Cellular responses to both cytoactive and variable substrates were assessed by morphologic changes to the cells, and alterations in expression patterns of key keratocyte and myofibroblast proteins using PCR, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements were performed to establish epithelial barrier integrity. In vivo, the corneas of New Zealand White rabbits were wounded by phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) and treated with 17AAG (3× or 6× daily) either immediately or 7 days after wounding for 28 days. Rabbits underwent clinical ophthalmic examinations, SPOTS scoring and advanced imaging on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 21 and 28. On day 28, rabbits were euthanized and histopathology/immunohistochemistry was performed. In vitro data demonstrated that 17AAG inhibited KFM transformation with the de-differentiation of spindle shaped myofibroblasts to dendritic keratocyte-like cells accompanied by significant upregulation of corneal crystallins and suppression of myofibroblast markers regardless of TGFβ1 treatment. RCFs cultured on soft hydrogels or patterned substrates exhibited elevated expression of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) in the presence of 17AAG. Treatment of hTCEpi cells disrupted zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) adherens junction formation. In vivo, there were no differences detected in nearly all clinical parameters assessed between treatment groups. However, rabbits treated with 17AAG developed greater stromal haze formation compared with controls, irrespective of frequency of administration. Lastly, there was increased αSMA positive myofibroblasts in the stroma of 17AAG treated animals when compared with controls. Hsp90 inhibition promoted reversion of the myofibroblast to keratocyte phenotype, although this only occurred on rigid substrates. By contrast, in vivo Hsp90 inhibition was detrimental to corneal wound healing likely due to impairment in corneal epithelial closure and barrier function restoration. Collectively, our data demonstrated a strong interplay in vitro between biophysical cues and soluble signaling molecules in determining corneal stromal cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- VijayKrishna Raghunathan
- Department of Basic Sciences, United States; The Ocular Surface Institute, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States.
| | - Sydney Garrison Edwards
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Soohyun Kim
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Alexander T Evashenk
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Yeonju Song
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Eva Rewinski
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Ariana Marangakis Price
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Alyssa Hoehn
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Connor Chang
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Christopher M Reilly
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Santoshi Muppala
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States
| | - Christopher J Murphy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.
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Petrillo F, Trotta MC, Bucolo C, Hermenean A, Petrillo A, Maisto R, Pieretti G, Pietropaolo M, Ferraraccio F, Gagliano C, Galdiero M, D'Amico M. Resolvin D1 attenuates the inflammatory process in mouse model of LPS-induced keratitis. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:12298-12307. [PMID: 33058526 PMCID: PMC7686975 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the lipid mediator Resolvin D1 in experimental keratitis. C57BL/6J mice were injected with lipopolysaccharide (2 µg/eye), and after 24 hours, the corneal damage was assessed. Clinical score was quantified, and corneal inflammatory biomarkers were detected by immunohistochemistry. A robust accumulation of sub‐epithelial macrophages and polymorphonuclear leucocytes, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 1 (also known as keratinocyte‐derived chemokine), interleukin‐10 and promoters of apoptosis was also observed in lipopolysaccharide‐treated mice. Formyl peptide receptor 2 corneal expression was also assessed. The corneal stroma treated with lipopolysaccharide was characterized by presence of macrophages of M1‐like subtype and immature fibroblastic cells, marked with Ki67, not fully differentiated in fibroblasts. Indeed, the staining of the cornea with anti‐vimentin antibodies, a marker of differentiated myofibroblasts, was very faint. Resolvin D1 attenuated all the inflammatory parameters assessed in the present study, except for IL‐10. In conclusion, the data presented here seem to be consistent with the hypothesis that Resolvin D1 protected the cornea from the lipopolysaccharide‐induced keratitis by acting on several inflammatory components of this damage, pivoted by Formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) activation and macrophages‐leucocytes activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Consiglia Trotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Anca Hermenean
- Institute of Life Science, Vasile Goldis Western University, Arad, Romania
| | - Arianna Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Maisto
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Gorizio Pieretti
- Multidisciplinary Department of Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Pietropaolo
- General Directorate of the University Polyclinic 'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Department of Clinical, Public and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania 'L. Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Eye Clinic, University of Catania and Santa Marta Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Michele D'Amico
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'L.Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
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Wilson SE, Sampaio LP, Shiju TM, Carlos de Oliveira R. Fibroblastic and bone marrow-derived cellularity in the corneal stroma. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108303. [PMID: 33068626 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The unwounded, normal corneal stroma is a relatively simple, avascular tissue populated with quiescent keratocytes, along with corneal nerves and a few resident dendritic and monocyte/macrophage cells. In the past, the resting keratocytes were thought of as a homogenous cellular population, but recent work has shown local variations in vimentin and nestin expression, and responsiveness to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. Studies have also supported there being "stromal stem cells" in localized areas. After corneal wounding, depending on the site and severity of injury, profound changes in stromal cellularity occur. Anterior or posterior injuries to the epithelium or endothelium, respectively, trigger apoptosis of adjacent keratocytes. Many contiguous keratocytes transition to keratocan-negative corneal fibroblasts that are proliferative and produce limited amounts of disorganized extracellular matrix components. Simultaneously, large numbers of bone marrow-derived cells, including monocytes, neutrophils, fibrocytes and lymphocytes, invade the stroma from the limbal blood vessels. Ongoing adequate levels of TGFβ1, TGFβ2 and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) from epithelium, tears, endothelium and aqueous humor that penetrate defective or absent epithelial barrier function (EBF) and epithelial basement membrane (EBM) and/or Descemet's basement membrane (DBM) drive corneal fibroblasts and fibrocytes to differentiate into alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA)-positive myofibroblasts. If the EBF, EBM and/or DBM are repaired or replaced in a timely manner, typically measured in weeks, then corneal fibroblast and fibrocyte progeny, deprived of requisite levels of TGFβ1 and TGFβ2, undergo apoptosis or revert to their precursor cell-types. If the EBF, EBM and/or DBM are not repaired or replaced, stromal levels of TGFβ1 and TGFβ2 remain elevated, and mature myofibroblasts are generated from corneal fibroblasts and fibrocyte precursors that produce prodigious amounts of disordered extracellular matrix materials associated with scarring fibrosis. This fibrotic stromal matrix persists, at least until the EBF, EBM and/or DBM are regenerated or replaced, and keratocytes remove and reorganize the affected stromal matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Wilson
- Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic, 9500, Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, United States.
| | - Lycia Pedral Sampaio
- Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic, 9500, Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Thomas Michael Shiju
- Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic, 9500, Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, United States
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