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Kizhatil K, Clark G, Sunderland D, Bhandari A, Horbal L, Balasubramanian R, John S. FYN regulates aqueous humor outflow and IOP through the phosphorylation of VE-cadherin. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.04.556253. [PMID: 37886565 PMCID: PMC10602025 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.04.556253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The exact sites and molecules that determine resistance to aqueous humor drainage and control intraocular pressure (IOP) need further elaboration. Proposed sites include the inner wall of Schlemms's canal and the juxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork ocular drainage tissues. The adherens junctions (AJs) of Schlemm's canal endothelial cells (SECs) must both preserve the blood-aqueous humor (AQH) barrier and be conducive to AQH drainage. How homeostatic control of AJ permeability in SC occurs and how such control impacts IOP is unclear. We hypothesized that mechano-responsive phosphorylation of the junctional molecule VE-CADHERIN (VEC) by SRC family kinases (SFKs) regulates the permeability of SEC AJs. We tested this by clamping IOP at either 16 mmHg, 25 mmHg, or 45 mmHg in mice and then measuring AJ permeability and VEC phosphorylation. We found that with increasing IOP: 1) SEC AJ permeability increased, 2) VEC phosphorylation was increased at tyrosine-658, and 3) SFKs were activated at the AJ. Among the two SFKs known to phosphorylate VEC, FYN, but not SRC, localizes to the SC. Furthermore, FYN mutant mice had decreased phosphorylation of VEC at SEC AJs, dysregulated IOP, and reduced AQH outflow. Together, our data demonstrate that increased IOP activates FYN in the inner wall of SC, leading to increased phosphorylation of AJ VEC and, thus, decreased resistance to AQH outflow. These findings support a crucial role of mechanotransduction signaling in IOP homeostasis within SC in response to IOP. These data strongly suggest that the inner wall of SC partially contributes to outflow resistance.
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Hassan MDS, Razali N, Abu Bakar AS, Abu Hanipah NF, Agarwal R. Connective tissue growth factor: Role in trabecular meshwork remodeling and intraocular pressure lowering. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:1425-1436. [PMID: 37873757 PMCID: PMC10657592 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231199466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a distinct signaling molecule modulating many physiological and pathophysiological processes. This protein is upregulated in numerous fibrotic diseases that involve extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. It mediates the downstream effects of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and is regulated via TGF-β SMAD-dependent and SMAD-independent signaling routes. Targeting CTGF instead of its upstream regulator TGF-β avoids the consequences of interfering with the pleotropic effects of TGF-β. Both CTGF and its upstream mediator, TGF-β, have been linked with the pathophysiology of glaucomatous optic neuropathy due to their involvement in the regulation of ECM homeostasis. The excessive expression of these growth factors is associated with glaucoma pathogenesis via elevation of the intraocular pressure (IOP), the most important risk factor for glaucoma. The raised in the IOP is due to dysregulation of ECM turnover resulting in excessive ECM deposition at the site of aqueous humor outflow. It is therefore believed that CTGF could be a potential therapeutic target in glaucoma therapy. This review highlights the CTGF biology and structure, its regulation and signaling, its association with the pathophysiology of glaucoma, and its potential role as a therapeutic target in glaucoma management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Norhafiza Razali
- Institute of Medical Molecular Biotechnology (IMMB), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
- Center for Neuroscience Research (NeuRon), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Amy Suzana Abu Bakar
- Institute of Medical Molecular Biotechnology (IMMB), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
- Center for Neuroscience Research (NeuRon), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Noor Fahitah Abu Hanipah
- Institute of Medical Molecular Biotechnology (IMMB), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 47000 Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- School of Medicine, International Medical University (IMU), 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Novytskyy IY, Novytskyy MI. Efficacy of Endotrabeculectomy (Trabecula Ablation Ab Interno with the Forceps) for Open-angle Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2023; 17:15-21. [PMID: 37228311 PMCID: PMC10203332 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10078-1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate the efficacy of endotrabeculectomy (ETE) performed either alone or combined with phacoemulsification (phaco) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Materials and methods Investigations were done in two groups. The first group (38 patients, 38 eyes) with POAG underwent ETE, and the second group of 126 patients (126 eyes) with POAG and cataracts underwent ETE and phaco. The hypotensive effect of the surgery was evaluated. Results In the ETE group, the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was reduced from 20.25 ± 3.30 to 14.94 ± 1.95 mm Hg (26.2% reduction, p < 0.001) at 12 months. The number of medications was reduced from 2.8 ± 1.0 to 1.5 ± 1.0 (p < 0.001) at 12 months after the surgery. In the phaco-ETE group, the mean IOP was reduced from 18.24 ± 3.20 to 14.83 ± 1.71 mm Hg (18.7% reduction, p < 0.001) at 12 months. The mean number of medications was reduced from 2.2 ± 1.1 to 1.0 ± 1.0 (p < 0.001) at 12 months after the surgery. The success rate defined as a final IOP of <16 mm Hg using the Kaplan-Meier curve at 12 months was 73.8%. There were no complications that led to a constant visual decrease. Clinical significance Our study shows that ETE is technically simple, gives the ability to remove trabecula in any quadrant, and effectively reduces IOP in patients with POAG. Conclusion Endotrabeculectomy (ETE) is a safe and relatively simple procedure that significantly reduces IOP. The minimally invasive nature of the ETE allows expanding indications for combined treatment of glaucoma and cataract. How to cite this article Novytskyy IY, Novytskyy MI. Efficacy of Endotrabeculectomy (Trabecula Ablation Ab Interno with the Forceps) for Open-angle Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2023;17(1):15-21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihor Y Novytskyy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University (LNMU), Lviv, Lviv reg, Ukraine
| | - Markiyan I Novytskyy
- Medical Center “Microsurgery of the Eye”, Communal Municipal Clinical Hospital 8, Lviv, Lviv reg, Ukraine
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Swain DL, Yasmin S, Fernandes B, Lamaj G, Su Y, Gong H. Schlemm’s Canal Endothelium Cellular Connectivity in Giant Vacuole and Pore Formation in Different Flow-type Areas: A Serial Block-Face Scanning Electron Microscopy Study. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:867376. [PMID: 35493087 PMCID: PMC9043561 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.867376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is associated with increased resistance in the conventional aqueous humor (AH) outflow pathway of the eye. The majority of resistance is thought to reside in the juxtacanalicular connective tissue (JCT) region of the trabecular meshwork and is modulated by the inner wall (IW) endothelial cells of Schlemm’s canal (SC). The IW cells form connections with the underlying JCT cells/matrix, and these connections are thought to modulate outflow resistance. Two ways by which AH crosses the IW endothelium are through: 1) the formation of outpouchings in IW cells called giant vacuoles (GVs) and their intracellular pores (I-pores), and 2) intercellular pores between two adjacent IW cells (B-pores). AH outflow is segmental with areas of high-, low-, and non-flow around the circumference of the eye. To investigate whether changes in cellular connectivity play a role in segmental outflow regulation, we used global imaging, serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM), and 3D reconstruction to examine individual IW cells from different flow areas of ex vivo perfused normal human donor eyes. Specifically, we investigated the differences in cellular dimensions, connections with JCT cells/matrix, GVs, and pores in SC IW cells between high-, low-, and non-flow areas. Our data showed that: 1) IW cell-JCT cell/matrix connectivity was significantly decreased in the cells in high-flow areas compared to those in low- and non-flow areas; 2) GVs in the cells of high-flow areas had significantly fewer connections beneath them compared to GVs in the cells of low- and non-flow areas; 3) Type IV GVs (with I-pores and basal openings) had significantly fewer connections beneath them compared to Type I GVs (no I-pore or basal opening). Our results suggest that a decreased number of cellular connections between the IW and JCT in high-flow areas is associated with increased numbers of GVs with I-pores and larger Type IV GVs observed in previous studies. Therefore, modulating the number of cellular connections may affect the amount of high-flow area around the eye and thereby modulate AH outflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L. Swain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Senila Yasmin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Beatriz Fernandes
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ganimete Lamaj
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yanfeng Su
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Haiyan Gong,
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Comparison of the Drug-Induced Efficacies between Omidenepag Isopropyl, an EP2 Agonist and PGF2α toward TGF-β2-Modulated Human Trabecular Meshwork (HTM) Cells. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061652. [PMID: 35329980 PMCID: PMC8954773 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To compare the drug-induced efficacies between omidenepag (OMD), an EP2 agonist, and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) on glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (TM) cells, two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) cultures of TGF-β2-modulated human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells were used. The following analyses were performed: (1) transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and FITC-dextran permeability measurements (2D), (2) the size and stiffness of the 3D spheroids, and (3) the expression (both 2D and 3D) by several extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules including collagen (COL) 1, 4 and 6, and fibronectin (FN), and α smooth muscle actin (αSMA), tight junction (TJ)-related molecules, claudin11 (Cldn11) and ZO1, the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) 1–4, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2, 9 and 14, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and several endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related factors. TGF-β2 significantly increased the TEER values and decreased FITC-dextran permeability, respectively, in the 2D HTM monolayers, and induced the formation of downsized and stiffer 3D HTM spheroids. TGF-β2-induced changes in TEER levels and FITC-dextran permeability were remarkably inhibited by PGF2α. PGF2α induced increases in the sizes and stiffness of the TGF-β2-treated 3D spheroids, but OMD enhanced only spheroid size. Upon exposure to TGF-β2, the expression of most of the molecules that were evaluated were significantly up-regulated, except some of ER stress-related factors were down-regulated. TJ-related molecules or ER stress-related factors were significantly up-regulated (2D) or down-regulated (3D), and down-regulated (2D) by PGF2α and OMD, while both drugs altered the expression of some of the other genes in the 3D spheroids in a different manner. The findings presented herein suggest that PGF2α and OMD differently modulate the permeability of the TGFβ2-modulated 2D monolayers and the physical properties of the 3D HTM spheroids.
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Tan C, Jia F, Zhang P, Sun X, Qiao Y, Chen X, Wang Y, Chen J, Lei Y. A miRNA stabilizing polydopamine nano-platform for intraocular delivery of miR-21-5p in glaucoma therapy. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:3335-3345. [PMID: 33881417 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb02881a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) is an important risk factor in the development of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), which is the main cause of irreversible vision loss. miRNAs are promising new anti-glaucoma therapeutic agents. However, the low stability and cellular transfection of miRNA in vivo hinder its further application. This study aims to investigate the use of polydopamine-polyethylenimine nanoparticles (PDA/PEI NPs) as miRNA carriers in the treatment of ocular hypertension and glaucoma. The in vitro study proves that the carrier preserves the activity of nucleic acid for a long period. Besides, it has comparable transfection efficiency with commercially available vehicles, while having lower cytotoxicity. It has been demonstrated in the animal model that PDA/PEI NPs successfully reach the target tissues without an obvious inflammatory response. PDA/PEI NPs/miR-21-5p increases the permeability of porcine angular aqueous plexus cells, thereby reducing IOP by facilitating the conventional outflow pathway at least partially through the pathway involving endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Our results indicate that PDA/PEI NPs/miR-21-5p is a promising anti-glaucoma drug for treating POAG. And the delivery strategy may be extended to other gene therapy in treating intraocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
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Yamada NO, Senda T. Circulating microRNA-92a-3p in colorectal cancer: a review. Med Mol Morphol 2021; 54:193-202. [PMID: 33620640 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-021-00282-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have found that microRNAs (miRNAs) are present in body fluids, including blood, cerebrospinal fluid, tears, saliva, breast milk, and urine in a stable form, and are called circulating miRNAs. Although their biological roles remain to be determined, circulating miRNAs are considered as mediators of intercellular communication like hormones and cytokines. Because circulating miRNAs can be collected in a non-invasive manner called as "liquid biopsy", they have also been studied as potential biomarkers for early detection, evaluation of therapeutic effects, and prediction of prognosis in various diseases, including cancers. In this review, we focus on the studies on circulating microRNA-92a-3p (miR-92a-3p) in colorectal cancer (CRC), considering their existence form, isolation methods, potential as biomarkers, and roles in CRC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami O Yamada
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Takao Senda
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
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Reina-Torres E, Boussommier-Calleja A, Sherwood JM, Overby DR. Aqueous Humor Outflow Requires Active Cellular Metabolism in Mice. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:45. [PMID: 32845955 PMCID: PMC7452856 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Conventional wisdom posits that aqueous humor leaves the eye by passive bulk flow without involving energy-dependent processes. However, recent studies have shown that active processes, such as cell contractility, contribute to outflow regulation. Here, we examine whether inhibiting cellular metabolism affects outflow facility in mice. Methods We measured outflow facility in paired enucleated eyes from C57BL/6J mice using iPerfusion. We had three Experimental Sets: ES1, perfused at 35°C versus 22°C; ES2, perfused with metabolic inhibitors versus vehicle at 35°C; and ES3, perfused at 35°C versus 22°C in the presence of metabolic inhibitors. Inhibitors targeted glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (2-deoxy-D-glucose, 3PO and sodium azide). We also measured adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in separate murine anterior segments treated like ES1 and ES2. Results Reducing temperature decreased facility by 63% [38%, 78%] (mean [95% confidence interval (CI)], n = 10 pairs; P = 0.002) in ES1 after correcting for changes in viscosity. Metabolic inhibitors reduced facility by 21% [9%, 31%] (n = 9, P = 0.006) in ES2. In the presence of inhibitors, temperature reduction decreased facility by 44% [29%, 56%] (n = 8, P < 0.001) in ES3. Metabolic inhibitors reduced anterior segment adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels by 90% [83%, 97%] (n = 5, P<<0.001), but reducing temperature did not affect ATP. Conclusions Inhibiting cellular metabolism decreases outflow facility within minutes. This implies that outflow is not entirely passive, but depends partly on energy-dependent cellular processes, at least in mice. This study also suggests that there is a yet unidentified mechanism, which is strongly temperature-dependent but metabolism-independent, that is necessary for nearly half of normal outflow function in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Reina-Torres
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joseph M Sherwood
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Darryl R Overby
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Reina-Torres E, De Ieso ML, Pasquale LR, Madekurozwa M, van Batenburg-Sherwood J, Overby DR, Stamer WD. The vital role for nitric oxide in intraocular pressure homeostasis. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 83:100922. [PMID: 33253900 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Catalyzed by endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) activity, NO is a gaseous signaling molecule maintaining endothelial and cardiovascular homeostasis. Principally, NO regulates the contractility of vascular smooth muscle cells and permeability of endothelial cells in response to either biochemical or biomechanical cues. In the conventional outflow pathway of the eye, the smooth muscle-like trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and Schlemm's canal (SC) endothelium control aqueous humor outflow resistance, and therefore intraocular pressure (IOP). The mechanisms by which outflow resistance is regulated are complicated, but NO appears to be a key player as enhancement or inhibition of NO signaling dramatically affects outflow function; and polymorphisms in NOS3, the gene that encodes eNOS modifies the relation between various environmental exposures and glaucoma. Based upon a comprehensive review of past foundational studies, we present a model whereby NO controls a feedback signaling loop in the conventional outflow pathway that is sensitive to changes in IOP and its oscillations. Thus, upon IOP elevation, the outflow pathway tissues distend, and the SC lumen narrows resulting in increased SC endothelial shear stress and stretch. In response, SC cells upregulate the production of NO, relaxing neighboring TM cells and increasing permeability of SC's inner wall. These IOP-dependent changes in the outflow pathway tissues reduce the resistance to aqueous humor drainage and lower IOP, which, in turn, diminishes the biomechanical signaling on SC. Similar to cardiovascular pathogenesis, dysregulation of the eNOS/NO system leads to dysfunctional outflow regulation and ocular hypertension, eventually resulting in primary open-angle glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Louis R Pasquale
- Eye and Vision Research Institute of New York Eye and Ear Infirmary at Mount Sinai, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Darryl R Overby
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - W Daniel Stamer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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10
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Cassidy PS, Kelly RA, Reina-Torres E, Sherwood JM, Humphries MM, Kiang AS, Farrar GJ, O'Brien C, Campbell M, Stamer WD, Overby DR, Humphries P, O'Callaghan J. siRNA targeting Schlemm's canal endothelial tight junctions enhances outflow facility and reduces IOP in a steroid-induced OHT rodent model. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 20:86-94. [PMID: 33376757 PMCID: PMC7749298 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Systemic or localized application of glucocorticoids (GCs) can lead to iatrogenic ocular hypertension, which is a leading cause of secondary open-angle glaucoma and visual impairment. Previous work has shown that dexamethasone increases zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein expression in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells, and that an antisense oligonucleotide inhibitor of ZO-1 can abolish the dexamethasone-induced increase in trans-endothelial flow resistance in cultured Schlemm’s canal (SC) endothelial and TM cells. We have previously shown that intracameral inoculation of small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting SC endothelial cell tight junction components, ZO-1 and tricellulin, increases aqueous humor outflow facility ex vivo in normotensive mice by reversibly opening SC endothelial paracellular pores. In this study, we show that targeted siRNA downregulation of these SC endothelial tight junctions reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) in vivo, with a concomitant increase in conventional outflow facility in a well-characterized chronic steroid-induced mouse model of ocular hypertension, thus representing a potential focused clinical application for this therapy in a sight-threatening scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Cassidy
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ruth A Kelly
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ester Reina-Torres
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Marian M Humphries
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anna-Sophia Kiang
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G Jane Farrar
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm O'Brien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - W Daniel Stamer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Darryl R Overby
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Pete Humphries
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Neurovascular Research Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Arima M, Nakao S, Yamaguchi M, Feng H, Fujii Y, Shibata K, Wada I, Kaizu Y, Ahmadieh H, Ishibashi T, Stitt AW, Sonoda KH. Claudin-5 Redistribution Induced by Inflammation Leads to Anti-VEGF-Resistant Diabetic Macular Edema. Diabetes 2020; 69:981-999. [PMID: 32139595 DOI: 10.2337/db19-1121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 40% of patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) are resistant to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy (rDME). Here, we demonstrate that significant correlations between inflammatory cytokines and VEGF, as observed in naive DME, are lost in patients with rDME. VEGF overexpression in the mouse retina caused delayed inflammatory cytokine upregulation, monocyte/macrophage infiltration (CD11b+ Ly6C+ CCR2+ cells), macrophage/microglia activation (CD11b+ CD80+ cells), and blood-retinal barrier disruption due to claudin-5 redistribution, which did not recover with VEGF blockade alone. Phosphorylated protein analysis of VEGF-overexpressed retinas revealed rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK) activation. Administration of ripasudil, a selective ROCK inhibitor, attenuated retinal inflammation and claudin-5 redistribution. Ripasudil also contributed to the stability of claudin-5 expression by both transcriptional enhancement and degradation suppression in inflammatory cytokine-stimulated endothelium. Notably, the anti-VEGF agent and the ROCK inhibitor were synergic in suppressing cytokine upregulation, monocyte/macrophage infiltration, macrophage/microglia activation, and claudin-5 redistribution. Furthermore, in vitro analysis confirmed that claudin-5 redistribution depends on ROCK2 but not on ROCK1. This synergistic effect was also confirmed in human rDME cases. Our results suggest that ROCK-mediated claudin-5 redistribution by inflammation is a key mechanism in the anti-VEGF resistance of DME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuru Arima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shintaro Nakao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Muneo Yamaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuya Fujii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kensuke Shibata
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Iori Wada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kaizu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tatsuro Ishibashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Alan W Stitt
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Koh-Hei Sonoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Geisert EE, Williams RW. Using BXD mouse strains in vision research: A systems genetics approach. Mol Vis 2020; 26:173-187. [PMID: 32180682 PMCID: PMC7058434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We illustrate the growing power of the BXD family of mice (recombinant inbred strains from a cross of C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice) and companion bioinformatic tools to study complex genome-phenome relations related to glaucoma. Over the past 16 years, our group has integrated powerful murine resources and web-accessible tools to identify networks modulating visual system traits-from photoreceptors to the visual cortex. Recent studies focused on retinal ganglion cells and glaucoma risk factors, including intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), and susceptibility of cellular stress. The BXD family was exploited to define key gene variants and then establish linkage to glaucoma in human cohorts. The power of this experimental approach to precision medicine is highlighted by recent studies that defined cadherin 11 (Cdh11) and a calcium channel (Cacna2d1) as genes modulating IOP, Pou6f2 as a genetic link between CCT and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death, and Aldh7a1 as a gene that modulates the susceptibility of RGCs to death after elevated IOP. The role of three of these gene variants in glaucoma is discussed, along with the pathways activated in the disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eldon E. Geisert
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, 1365B Clifton Road NE Atlanta GA, 30322
| | - Robert W. Williams
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 71 S Manassas St, Memphis TN 38163
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13
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Yamada NO, Heishima K, Akao Y, Senda T. Extracellular Vesicles Containing MicroRNA-92a-3p Facilitate Partial Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Angiogenesis in Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184406. [PMID: 31500278 PMCID: PMC6769671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanometer-sized membranous vesicles used for primitive cell-to-cell communication. We previously reported that colon cancer-derived EVs contain abundant miR-92a-3p and have a pro-angiogenic function. We previously identified Dickkopf-3 (Dkk-3) as a direct target of miR-92a-3p; however, the pro-angiogenic function of miR-92a-3p cannot only be attributed to downregulation of Dkk-3. Therefore, the complete molecular mechanism by which miR-92a-3p exerts pro-angiogenic effects is still unclear. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the gene sets affected by ectopic expression of miR-92a-3p in endothelial cells to elucidate processes underlying EV-induced angiogenesis. We found that the ectopic expression of miR-92a-3p upregulated cell cycle- and mitosis-related gene expression and downregulated adhesion-related gene expression in endothelial cells. We also identified a novel target gene of miR-92a-3p, claudin-11. Claudin-11 belongs to the claudin gene family, which encodes essential components expressed at tight junctions (TJs). Disruption of TJs with a concomitant loss of claudin expression is a significant event in the process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Our findings have unveiled a new EV-mediated mechanism for tumor angiogenesis through the induction of partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami O Yamada
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Kazuki Heishima
- United Graduate School of Drug Discovery and Medical Information Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Akao
- United Graduate School of Drug Discovery and Medical Information Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Takao Senda
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
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14
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Guglielmi P, Carradori S, Campestre C, Poce G. Novel therapies for glaucoma: a patent review (2013-2019). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2019; 29:769-780. [DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2019.1653279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Guglielmi
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Campestre
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giovanna Poce
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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15
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Mietzner R, Breunig M. Causative glaucoma treatment: promising targets and delivery systems. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1606-1613. [PMID: 30905679 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is one of the most common causes of blindness worldwide. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the major modifiable risk factor of the disease. Conventional therapy suffers from poor compliance, low bioavailability, and the lack of causative treatment options. To improve therapeutic success, it is crucial to identify major mediators of pathological changes associated with elevated IOP and to intervene at the molecular level. Here, we discuss relevant key functions of transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), integrins, Rho-associated kinase (ROCK), and nitric oxide (NO) with regard to the onset of glaucoma, highlighting new drug delivery approaches for causative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Mietzner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Breunig
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040 Regensburg, Germany.
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16
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O'Callaghan J, Campbell M, Humphries P. Intracameral Delivery of AAV to Corneal Endothelium for Expression of Secretory Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1950:263-270. [PMID: 30783979 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9139-6_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
AAV9 drives gene expression in a highly selective manner within the corneal endothelium of mice following intracameral inoculation into the anterior chamber of the eye. In principle, this allows genes encoding protein constituents of the secretome (representing up to 20% of the human proteome) to be delivered directly into the aqueous humor. From here the secreted protein moves with the natural flow of the aqueous humor via a pressure gradient and is directed toward the outflow tissues. Such a delivery can be employed to modulate outflow facility and intraocular pressure through interactions at the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal. We provide a protocol for the delivery of AAV to the corneal endothelium, using a CMV-driven eGFP reporter gene as a marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Neurovascular Genetics Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter Humphries
- Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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17
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Dillinger AE, Guter M, Froemel F, Weber GR, Perkumas K, Stamer WD, Ohlmann A, Fuchshofer R, Breunig M. Intracameral Delivery of Layer-by-Layer Coated siRNA Nanoparticles for Glaucoma Therapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:e1803239. [PMID: 30353713 PMCID: PMC6599181 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201803239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a mediator of pathological effects in the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canal (SC). A novel, causative therapeutic concept which involves the intracameral delivery of small interfering RNA against CTGF is proposed. Layer-by-layer coated nanoparticles of 200-260 nm with a final layer of hyaluronan (HA) are developed. The HA-coating should provide the nanoparticles sufficient mobility in the extracellular matrix and allow for binding to TM and SC cells via CD44. By screening primary TM and SC cells in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo, the validity of the concept is confirmed. CD44 expression is elevated in glaucomatous versus healthy cells by about two- to sixfold. CD44 is significantly involved in the cellular uptake of HA-coated nanoparticles. Ex vivo organ culture of porcine, murine, and human eyes demonstrates up to threefold higher accumulation of HA compared to control nanoparticles and much better penetration into the target tissue. Gene silencing in primary human TM cells results in a significant reduction of CTGF expression. Thus, HA-coated nanoparticles combined with RNA interference may provide a potential strategy for glaucoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Dillinger
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Guter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Froemel
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gregor R Weber
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kristin Perkumas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, 2351 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - W Daniel Stamer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, 2351 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Andreas Ohlmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Breunig
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040, Regensburg, Germany
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18
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Dang Y, Waxman S, Wang C, Loewen RT, Sun M, Loewen NA. A porcine ex vivo model of pigmentary glaucoma. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5468. [PMID: 29615741 PMCID: PMC5882895 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23861-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigment dispersion can lead to pigmentary glaucoma, a poorly understood condition of younger myopic eyes with fluctuating high intraocular pressure. It has been difficult to investigate its pathogenesis without a model similar to human eyes in size and behavior. Here we present a porcine ex vivo model that recreates several features of pigmentary glaucoma, including intraocular hypertension, accumulation of pigment in the trabecular meshwork, and declining phagocytosis. We found that trabecular meshwork cells regulate outflow, form actin stress fibers, and have a decreased phagocytic activity. Gene expression microarrays and a pathway analysis of TM monolayers as well as ex vivo anterior segment perfusion cultures indicated that RhoA plays a central role in regulating the cytoskeleton, motility, and phagocytosis in the trabecular meshwork, providing new insights and targets to investigate in pigmentary glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalong Dang
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America
| | - Susannah Waxman
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ralitsa T Loewen
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America
| | - Ming Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America
| | - Nils A Loewen
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States of America.
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19
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Lee MC, Shei W, Chan AS, Chua BT, Goh SR, Chong YF, Hilmy MH, Nongpiur ME, Baskaran M, Khor CC, Aung T, Hunziker W, Vithana EN. Primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) susceptibility gene PLEKHA7 encodes a novel Rac1/Cdc42 GAP that modulates cell migration and blood-aqueous barrier function. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 26:4011-4027. [PMID: 29016860 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PLEKHA7, a gene recently associated with primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG), encodes an apical junctional protein expressed in components of the blood aqueous barrier (BAB). We found that PLEKHA7 is down-regulated in lens epithelial cells and in iris tissue of PACG patients. PLEKHA7 expression also correlated with the C risk allele of the sentinel SNP rs11024102 with the risk allele carrier groups having significantly reduced PLEKHA7 levels compared to non-risk allele carriers. Silencing of PLEKHA7 in human immortalized non-pigmented ciliary epithelium (h-iNPCE) and primary trabecular meshwork cells, which are intimately linked to BAB and aqueous humor outflow respectively, affected actin cytoskeleton organization. PLEKHA7 specifically interacts with GTP-bound Rac1 and Cdc42, but not RhoA, and the activation status of the two small GTPases is linked to PLEKHA7 expression levels. PLEKHA7 stimulates Rac1 and Cdc42 GTP hydrolysis, without affecting nucleotide exchange, identifying PLEKHA7 as a novel Rac1/Cdc42 GAP. Consistent with the regulatory role of Rac1 and Cdc42 in maintaining the tight junction permeability, silencing of PLEKHA7 compromises the paracellular barrier between h-iNPCE cells. Thus, downregulation of PLEKHA7 in PACG may affect BAB integrity and aqueous humor outflow via its Rac1/Cdc42 GAP activity, thereby contributing to disease etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chin Lee
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - William Shei
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Anita S Chan
- The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.,Department of Glaucoma, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
| | - Boon-Tin Chua
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Shuang-Ru Goh
- The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Yaan-Fun Chong
- The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Maryam H Hilmy
- Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Monisha E Nongpiur
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Mani Baskaran
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.,Department of Glaucoma, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore
| | - Chiea-Chuen Khor
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,Department of Human Genetics, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore 138672, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Tin Aung
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.,Department of Glaucoma, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore 168751, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
| | - Walter Hunziker
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research, Singapore 138673, Singapore.,Department of Physiology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore
| | - Eranga N Vithana
- Ocular Genetics Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore.,The Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore.,Department of Ophthalmology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
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20
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O'Callaghan J, Cassidy PS, Humphries P. Open-angle glaucoma: therapeutically targeting the extracellular matrix of the conventional outflow pathway. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2017; 21:1037-1050. [PMID: 28952395 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2017.1386174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ocular hypertension in open-angle glaucoma is caused by a reduced rate of removal of aqueous humour (AH) from the eye, with the majority of AH draining from the anterior chamber through the conventional outflow pathway, comprising the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's Canal. Resistance to outflow is generated, in part, by the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the outflow tissues. Current pressure-lowering topical medications largely suppress AH production, or enhance its clearance through the unconventional pathway. However, therapies targeting the ECM of the conventional pathway in order to decrease intraocular pressure have become a recent focus of attention. Areas covered: We discuss the role of ECM of the TM in outflow homeostasis and its relevance as a target for glaucoma therapy, including progress in development of topical eye formulations, together with gene therapy approaches based on inducible, virally-mediated expression of matrix metalloproteinases to enhance aqueous outflow. Expert opinion: There remains a need for improved glaucoma medications that more specifically act upon sites causative to glaucoma pathogenesis. Emerging strategies targeting the ECM of the conventional outflow pathway, or associated components of the cytoskeleton of TM cells, involving new pharmacological formulations or genetically-based therapies, are promising avenues of future glaucoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- a Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics , University of Dublin, Trinity College , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Paul S Cassidy
- a Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics , University of Dublin, Trinity College , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Pete Humphries
- a Ocular Genetics Unit, Smurfit Institute of Genetics , University of Dublin, Trinity College , Dublin , Ireland
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21
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Campbell M, Cassidy PS, O'Callaghan J, Crosbie DE, Humphries P. Manipulating ocular endothelial tight junctions: Applications in treatment of retinal disease pathology and ocular hypertension. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 62:120-133. [PMID: 28951125 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Protein levels of endothelial tight-junctions of the inner retinal microvasculature, together with those of Schlemm's canal, can be readily manipulated by RNA interference (RNAi), resulting in the paracellular clefts between such cells to be reversibly modulated. This facilitates access to the retina of systemically-deliverable low molecular weight, potentially therapeutic compounds, while also allowing potentially toxic material, for example, soluble Amyloid-β1-40, to be removed from the retina into the peripheral circulation. The technique has also been shown to be highly effective in alleviation of pathological cerebral oedema and we speculate that it may therefore have similar utility in the oedematous retina. Additionally, by manipulating endothelial tight-junctions of Schlemm's canal, inflow of aqueous humour from the trabecular meshwork into the Canal can be radically enhanced, suggesting a novel avenue for control of intraocular pressure. Here, we review the technology underlying this approach together with specific examples of clinical targets that are, or could be, amenable to this novel form of genetic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Campbell
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Paul S Cassidy
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Darragh E Crosbie
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Pete Humphries
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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22
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Madekurozwa M, Reina-Torres E, Overby DR, Sherwood JM. Direct measurement of pressure-independent aqueous humour flow using iPerfusion. Exp Eye Res 2017; 162:129-138. [PMID: 28720436 PMCID: PMC5587799 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Reduction of intraocular pressure is the sole therapeutic target for glaucoma. Intraocular pressure is determined by the dynamics of aqueous humour secretion and outflow, which comprise several pressure-dependent and pressure-independent mechanisms. Accurately quantifying the components of aqueous humour dynamics is essential in understanding the pathology of glaucoma and the development of new treatments. To better characterise aqueous humour dynamics, we propose a method to directly measure pressure-independent aqueous humour flow. Using the iPerfusion system, we directly measure the flow into the eye when the pressure drop across the pressure-dependent pathways is eliminated. Using this approach we address i) the magnitude of pressure-independent flow in ex vivo eyes, ii) whether we can accurately measure an artificially imposed pressure-independent flow, and iii) whether the presence of a pressure-independent flow affects our ability to measure outflow facility. These studies are conducted in mice, which are a common animal model for aqueous humour dynamics. In eyes perfused with a single cannula, the average pressure-independent flow was 1 [-3, 5] nl/min (mean [95% confidence interval]) (N = 6). Paired ex vivo eyes were then cannulated with two needles, connecting the eye to both iPerfusion and a syringe pump, which was used to impose a known pressure-independent flow of 120 nl/min into the experimental eye only. The measured pressure-independent flow was then 121 [117, 125] nl/min (N = 7), indicating that the method could measure pressure-independent flow with high accuracy. Finally, we showed that the artificially imposed pressure-independent flow did not affect our ability to measure facility, provided that the pressure-dependence of facility and the true pressure-independent flow were accounted for. The present study provides a robust method for measurement of pressure-independent flow, and demonstrates the importance of accurately quantifying this parameter when investigating pressure-dependent flow or outflow facility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Darryl R Overby
- Dept. of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Joseph M Sherwood
- Dept. of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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23
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Riz I, Hawley RG. Increased expression of the tight junction protein TJP1/ZO-1 is associated with upregulation of TAZ-TEAD activity and an adult tissue stem cell signature in carfilzomib-resistant multiple myeloma cells and high-risk multiple myeloma patients. Oncoscience 2017; 4:79-94. [PMID: 28966941 PMCID: PMC5616201 DOI: 10.18632/oncoscience.356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tight junction protein 1 (TJP1) has recently been proposed as a biomarker to identify multiple myeloma (MM) patients most likely to respond to bortezomib- and carfilzomib-based proteasome inhibitor regimens. Herein we report increased expression of TJP1 during the adaptive response mediating carfilzomib resistance in the LP-1/Cfz MM cell line. Moreover, increased TJP1 expression delineated a subset of relapsed/refractory MM patients on bortezomib-based therapy sharing an LP-1/Cfz-like phenotype characterized by activation of interacting transcriptional effectors of the Hippo signaling cascade (TAZ and TEAD1) and an adult tissue stem cell signature. siRNA-mediated knockdown of TJP1 or TAZ/TEAD1 partially sensitized LP-1/Cfz cells to carfilzomib. Connectivity Map analysis identified translation inhibitors as candidate therapeutic agents targeting this molecular phenotype. We confirmed this prediction by showing that homoharringtonine (omacetaxine mepesuccinate) — the first translation inhibitor to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration — displayed potent cytotoxic activity on LP-1/Cfz cells. Homoharringtonine treatment reduced the levels of TAZ and TEAD1 as well as the MM-protective proteins Nrf2 and MCL1. Thus, our data suggest the importance of further studies evaluating translation inhibitors in relapsed/refractory MM. On the other hand, use of TJP1 as a MM biomarker for proteasome inhibitor sensitivity requires careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Riz
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Robert G Hawley
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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