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Villafuerte-de la Cruz RA, Garza-Garza LA, Garza-Leon M, Rodriguez-De la Torre C, Parra-Bernal C, Vazquez-Camas I, Ramos-Gonzalez D, Rangel-Padilla A, Espino Barros-Palau A, Nava-García J, Castillo-Velazquez J, Castillo-De Leon E, Del Valle-Penella A, Valdez-Garcia JE, Rojas-Martinez A. Spectrum of variants associated with inherited retinal dystrophies in Northeast Mexico. BMC Ophthalmol 2024; 24:60. [PMID: 38347443 PMCID: PMC10860328 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-03276-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited retinal dystrophies are hereditary diseases which have in common the progressive degeneration of photoreceptors. They are a group of diseases with clinical, genetic, and allelic heterogeneity. There is limited information regarding the genetic landscape of inherited retinal diseases in Mexico, therefore, the present study was conducted in the northeast region of the country. METHODS Patients with inherited retinal dystrophies were included. A complete history, full ophthalmological and medical genetics evaluations, and genetic analysis through a targeted NGS panel for inherited retinal dystrophies comprising at least 293 genes were undertaken. RESULTS A total of 126 patients were included. Cases were solved in 74.6% of the study's population. Retinitis pigmentosa accounted for the most found inherited retinal disease. Ninety-nine causal variants were found, being USH2A and ABCA4 the most affected genes (26 and 15 cases, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The present study documents the most prevalent causative genes in IRDs, as USH2A, in northeastern Mexico. This contrasts with previous reports of IRDs in other zones of the country. Further studies, targeting previously unstudied populations in Mexico are important to document the genetic background of inherited retinal dystrophies in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio A Villafuerte-de la Cruz
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
- Destellos de Luz, San Pedro Garza García, México
| | | | - Manuel Garza-Leon
- Destellos de Luz, San Pedro Garza García, México
- Clinical Science Department, Health Sciences Division, University of Monterrey, Monterrey, México
| | - Cesar Rodriguez-De la Torre
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Cinthya Parra-Bernal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Ilse Vazquez-Camas
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, The Institute for Obesity Research, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
- Tecnologico Nacional de Mexico Campus Tuxtla Gutierrez, Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico
| | - David Ramos-Gonzalez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Andrea Rangel-Padilla
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Angelina Espino Barros-Palau
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Jose Nava-García
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Jorge E Valdez-Garcia
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico
| | - Augusto Rojas-Martinez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico.
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, The Institute for Obesity Research, Ave. Morones Prieto 3000, Col. Los Doctores, Monterrey, CP 64710, Mexico.
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Georgiou M, Robson AG, Fujinami K, de Guimarães TAC, Fujinami-Yokokawa Y, Daich Varela M, Pontikos N, Kalitzeos A, Mahroo OA, Webster AR, Michaelides M. Phenotyping and genotyping inherited retinal diseases: Molecular genetics, clinical and imaging features, and therapeutics of macular dystrophies, cone and cone-rod dystrophies, rod-cone dystrophies, Leber congenital amaurosis, and cone dysfunction syndromes. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101244. [PMID: 38278208 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a leading cause of blindness in the working age population and in children. The scope of this review is to familiarise clinicians and scientists with the current landscape of molecular genetics, clinical phenotype, retinal imaging and therapeutic prospects/completed trials in IRD. Herein we present in a comprehensive and concise manner: (i) macular dystrophies (Stargardt disease (ABCA4), X-linked retinoschisis (RS1), Best disease (BEST1), PRPH2-associated pattern dystrophy, Sorsby fundus dystrophy (TIMP3), and autosomal dominant drusen (EFEMP1)), (ii) cone and cone-rod dystrophies (GUCA1A, PRPH2, ABCA4, KCNV2 and RPGR), (iii) predominant rod or rod-cone dystrophies (retinitis pigmentosa, enhanced S-Cone syndrome (NR2E3), Bietti crystalline corneoretinal dystrophy (CYP4V2)), (iv) Leber congenital amaurosis/early-onset severe retinal dystrophy (GUCY2D, CEP290, CRB1, RDH12, RPE65, TULP1, AIPL1 and NMNAT1), (v) cone dysfunction syndromes (achromatopsia (CNGA3, CNGB3, PDE6C, PDE6H, GNAT2, ATF6), X-linked cone dysfunction with myopia and dichromacy (Bornholm Eye disease; OPN1LW/OPN1MW array), oligocone trichromacy, and blue-cone monochromatism (OPN1LW/OPN1MW array)). Whilst we use the aforementioned classical phenotypic groupings, a key feature of IRD is that it is characterised by tremendous heterogeneity and variable expressivity, with several of the above genes associated with a range of phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| | - Anthony G Robson
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Kaoru Fujinami
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Thales A C de Guimarães
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Yu Fujinami-Yokokawa
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Health Policy and Management, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Malena Daich Varela
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Nikolas Pontikos
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Omar A Mahroo
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Section of Ophthalmology, King s College London, St Thomas Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom; Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Translational Ophthalmology, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Andrew R Webster
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Michel Michaelides
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
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Yang Z, Yan L, Zhang W, Qi J, An W, Yao K. Dyschromatopsia: a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms and cutting-edge treatments for color vision deficiency. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1265630. [PMID: 38298913 PMCID: PMC10828017 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1265630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Color blindness is a retinal disease that mainly manifests as a color vision disorder, characterized by achromatopsia, red-green color blindness, and blue-yellow color blindness. With the development of technology and progress in theory, extensive research has been conducted on the genetic basis of color blindness, and various approaches have been explored for its treatment. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in understanding the pathological mechanism, clinical symptoms, and treatment options for color blindness. Additionally, we discuss the various treatment approaches that have been developed to address color blindness, including gene therapy, pharmacological interventions, and visual aids. Furthermore, we highlight the promising results from clinical trials of these treatments, as well as the ongoing challenges that must be addressed to achieve effective and long-lasting therapeutic outcomes. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the current state of research on color blindness, with the intention of informing further investigation and development of effective treatments for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Yang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Yan
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenliang Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjing An
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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He X, Fu Y, Ma L, Yao Y, Ge S, Yang Z, Fan X. AAV for Gene Therapy in Ocular Diseases: Progress and Prospects. Research (Wash D C) 2023; 6:0291. [PMID: 38188726 PMCID: PMC10768554 DOI: 10.34133/research.0291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Owing to the promising therapeutic effect and one-time treatment advantage, gene therapy may completely change the management of eye diseases, especially retinal diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is considered one of the most promising viral gene delivery tools because it can infect various types of tissues and is considered as a relatively safe gene delivery vector. The eye is one of the most popular organs for gene therapy, since its limited volume is suitable for small doses of AAV stably transduction. Recently, an increasing number of clinical trials of AAV-mediated gene therapy are underway. This review summarizes the biological functions of AAV and its application in the treatment of various ocular diseases, as well as the characteristics of different AAV delivery routes in clinical applications. Here, the latest research progresses in AAV-mediated gene editing and silencing strategies to modify that the genetic ocular diseases are systematically outlined, especially by base editing and prime editing. We discuss the progress of AAV in ocular optogenetic therapy. We also summarize the application of AAV-mediated gene therapy in animal models and the difficulties in its clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yidian Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yizheng Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University; Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease,
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
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Hu Z, Yang J. Structural basis of properties, mechanisms, and channelopathy of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels. Channels (Austin) 2023; 17:2273165. [PMID: 37905307 PMCID: PMC10761061 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2023.2273165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent years have seen an outpouring of atomic or near atomic resolution structures of cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels, captured in closed, transition, pre-open, partially open, and fully open states. These structures provide unprecedented molecular insights into the activation, assembly, architecture, regulation, and channelopathy of CNG channels, as well as mechanistic explanations for CNG channel biophysical and pharmacological properties. This article summarizes recent advances in CNG channel structural biology, describes key structural features and elements, and illuminates a detailed conformational landscape of activation by cyclic nucleotides. The review also correlates structures with findings and properties delineated in functional studies, including nonselective monovalent cation selectivity, Ca2+ permeation and block, block by L-cis-diltiazem, location of the activation gate, lack of voltage-dependent gating, and modulation by lipids and calmodulin. A perspective on future research is also offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengshan Hu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Solaki M, Wissinger B, Kohl S, Reuter P. Functional evaluation allows ACMG/AMP-based re-classification of CNGA3 variants associated with achromatopsia. Genet Med 2023; 25:100979. [PMID: 37689994 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2023.100979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE CNGA3 encoding the main subunit of the cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel in cone photoreceptors is one of the major disease-associated genes for achromatopsia. Most CNGA3 variants are missense variants with the majority being functionally uncharacterized and therefore hampering genetic diagnosis. In light of potential gene therapy, objective variant pathogenicity assessment is essential. METHODS We established a medium-throughput aequorin-based luminescence bioassay allowing mutant CNGA3 channel function assessment via quantification of CNGA3 channel-mediated calcium influx in a cell culture system, thereby enabling American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology-based variant re-classification. RESULTS We provide functional read-out obtained for 150 yet uncharacterized CNGA3 missense substitutions of which 55 were previously categorized as variants of uncertain significance (VUS) identifying 25 as functionally normal and 125 as functionally abnormal. These data enabled the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/ Association for Molecular Pathology-based variant re-classification of 52/55 VUS as either benign, likely benign, or likely pathogenic reaching a VUS re-classification rate of 94.5%. CONCLUSION Our aequorin-based bioassay allows functionally ensured clinical variant interpretation for 150 CNGA3 missense variants enabling and supporting VUS re-classification and assuring molecular diagnosis to patients affected by CNGA3-associated achromatopsia, hereby identifying patients eligible for future gene therapy trials on this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Solaki
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Peggy Reuter
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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Eshel YM, Abaev O, Yahalom C. Achromatopsia: Long term visual performance and clinical characteristics. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023:11206721231212768. [PMID: 37920903 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231212768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achromatopsia is an autosomal recessive cone dysfunction syndrome, characterized by absence of color discrimination, low visual acuity, photophobia, and nystagmus. Achromatopsia constitutes a common cause of visual impairment in children, with a prevalence of 1:30,000 worldwide. OBJECTIVE To characterize the clinical characteristics of achromatopsia, the main genes causing the disease in our population and the clinical course of the disease, with an emphasis on visual function stability with increasing age. METHODS Retrospective study based on medical charts of patients with achromatopsia. Patients were divided into two groups according to their age at last follow-up: older and younger than 10 years. A subset of patients with long term follow-up were analyzed separately, with patients being described in both age groups. RESULTS Seventy-six patients were included in the study. The mean age was 14.28 years. Variants in the CNGA3 gene were the most common (73.6%). Clinical characteristics included photophobia (96.2%), nystagmus (93.6%), hypermetropia (72.3%) and strabismus (51.1%). In the large cohort there was no correlation of age with visual acuity (p = 0.129). In the separate subset cohort with long follow-up there was a relative improvement in visual acuity with age (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS CNGA3 is the main gene associated with achromatopsia in our population (around ∼ 73%), which is in contrast to the distribution worldwide (∼ 25%). Most achromats suffer from photophobia and nystagmus, and the main refractive error is hypermetropia. Achromatopsia's natural course seems to be stationary, and there may even be a slight improvement in visual acuity with time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ora Abaev
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Claudia Yahalom
- Faculty of Medicine,Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Kugler SA, Valmaggia C, Sturm V, Schorderet DF, Todorova MG. Analysis of Suspected Achromatopsia by Multimodal Diagnostic Testing. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2023; 240:1158-1173. [PMID: 37714190 DOI: 10.1055/a-2176-4233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achromatopsia (ACHM) as a hereditary cone disease might manifest in a stationary and progressive manner. The proper clinical and genetic diagnosis may allow an individual prognosis, accurate genetic counselling, and the optimal choice of low vision aids. The primary aim of the study was to determine the spectrum of clinical and genetic diagnostics required to characterize the ACHM. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed in 8 patients from non-related families (5 ♀,3 ♂); age at diagnosis: 3 - 56 y, mean 18.13 (SD ± 18.22). Clinical phenotyping, supported by colour vision test, fundus photography-, autofluorescence- (FAF), infra-red- (IR), OCT imaging and electroretinography provided information on the current status and the course of the disease over the years. In addition, genetic examinations were performed with ACHM relevant testing (CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, PDE6H and the transcription factor ATF6). RESULTS All patients suffered photophobia and reduced visual acuity (mean: 0.16 [SD ± 0.08]). Nystagmus was identified in 7 from 8 subjects and in one patient a head-turn right helped to reduce the nystagmus amplitude. Colour vision testing confirmed complete achromatopsia in 7 out of 8 patients. Electrophysiology found severely reduced photopic- but also scotopic responses. Thinning and interruption of the inner segment ellipsoid (ISe) line within the macula but also FAF- and IR abnormalities in the fovea and/or parafovea were characteristic in all ACHM patients. Identification of pathogenic mutations in 7 patients helped to confirm the diagnosis of ACHM (3 adults, 4 children; 3 ♀ and 4 ♂). Achromatopsia was linked to CNGA3 (2 ♀, 1 ♂) and CNGB3 variants (2 ♀, 3 ♂). The youngest patient (♀, 10 y) had 3 different CNGB3 variants on different alleles. In a patient (♂, 29 y) carrying 2 pathogenic digenic-triallelic CNGA3- and CNGB3-mutations, a severe progression of ISe discontinuity to coloboma-like macular atrophy was observed during the 12-year follow-up. The oldest female (67 y) showed a compound homozygous CNGA3- and heterozygous CNGB3-, as well as a heterozygous GUCY2D variants. The destruction of her ISe line was significantly enlarged and represented a progressive cone-rod phenotype in comparison to other ACHM patients. In a patient (♂, 45 y) carrying a pathogenic CNGB3 and USH2 mutation, a severe macular oedema and a rod-cone phenotype was observed. In addition, two variants in C2ORF71 considered as VOS were found. One patient showed the rare ATF6 mutation, where a severe coloboma-like macular atrophy was observed on the left eye as early as at the age of three years. CONCLUSION Combining multimodal ophthalmological diagnostics and molecular genetics when evaluating patients with ACHM helps in characterizing the disease and associated modifiers, and is therefore strongly recommended for such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia A Kugler
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Christophe Valmaggia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Veit Sturm
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zürich, Switzerland
- Ophthalmology, Eye Center Rosengarten, Arbon, Switzerland
| | - Daniel F Schorderet
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne and Faculty of Life Sciences, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Margarita G Todorova
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
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Li S, Ma H, Yang F, Ding X. cGMP Signaling in Photoreceptor Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11200. [PMID: 37446378 PMCID: PMC10342299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors in the retina are highly specialized neurons with photosensitive molecules in the outer segment that transform light into chemical and electrical signals, and these signals are ultimately relayed to the visual cortex in the brain to form vision. Photoreceptors are composed of rods and cones. Rods are responsible for dim light vision, whereas cones are responsible for bright light, color vision, and visual acuity. Photoreceptors undergo progressive degeneration over time in many hereditary and age-related retinal diseases. Despite the remarkable heterogeneity of disease-causing genes, environmental factors, and pathogenesis, the progressive death of rod and cone photoreceptors ultimately leads to loss of vision/blindness. There are currently no treatments available for retinal degeneration. Cyclic guanosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cGMP) plays a pivotal role in phototransduction. cGMP governs the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels on the plasma membrane of the photoreceptor outer segments, thereby regulating membrane potential and signal transmission. By gating the CNG channels, cGMP regulates cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and signal transduction. As a second messenger, cGMP activates the cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG), which regulates numerous targets/cellular events. The dysregulation of cGMP signaling is observed in varieties of photoreceptor/retinal degenerative diseases. Abnormally elevated cGMP signaling interferes with various cellular events, which ultimately leads to photoreceptor degeneration. In line with this, strategies to reduce cellular cGMP signaling result in photoreceptor protection in mouse models of retinal degeneration. The potential mechanisms underlying cGMP signaling-induced photoreceptor degeneration involve the activation of PKG and impaired Ca2+ homeostasis/Ca2+ overload, resulting from overactivation of the CNG channels, as well as the subsequent activation of the downstream cellular stress/death pathways. Thus, targeting the cellular cGMP/PKG signaling and the Ca2+-regulating pathways represents a significant strategy for photoreceptor protection in retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Xiqin Ding
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (S.L.); (H.M.); (F.Y.)
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Andersen MKG, Bertelsen M, Grønskov K, Kohl S, Kessel L. Genetic and Clinical Characterization of Danish Achromatopsia Patients. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:690. [PMID: 36980963 PMCID: PMC10048638 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia is a rare congenital condition with cone photoreceptor dysfunction causing color blindness, reduced vision, nystagmus and photophobia. New treatments are being developed, but the current evidence is still conflicting regarding possible progression over time, and there is no clear genotype-phenotype correlation. This natural history study aimed to further explore the course of disease and potential clinical differences between various genotypes. The retrospective design allowed for the study of a large cohort with a long follow-up. Patients were identified from the Danish national registries. If not already available, genetic analysis was offered to the patient. Clinical data from 1945–2022 were retrieved from medical records and included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), color vision, refractive error, nystagmus, visual fields and fundoscopic findings. We identified variants believed to be disease causing in five of the known achromatopsia genes: CNGA3; CNGB3; GNAT2; PDE6C and PDE6H; and novel variants were identified in CNGB3 and PDE6C. Progressive deterioration of BCVA only attributable to achromatopsia was found in three of 58 patients. Progressive phenotype was seen with variants in CNGB3 and PDE6C. The results indicate that myopia could be more frequently occurring with variants in GNAT2, PDE6C and PDE6H and support the evidence that achromatopsia is a predominantly stationary condition with respect to BCVA. Although a clear genotype-phenotype correlation can still not be concluded, there may be differences in phenotypical characteristics with variants in different genes.
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Reuter P, Walter M, Kohl S, Weisschuh N. Systematic analysis of CNGA3 splice variants identifies different mechanisms of aberrant splicing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2896. [PMID: 36801918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29452-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia is an autosomal recessive cone photoreceptor disease that is frequently caused by pathogenic variants in the CNGA3 gene. Here, we present a systematic functional analysis of 20 CNGA3 splice site variants detected in our large cohort of achromatopsia patients and/or listed in common variant databases. All variants were analyzed by functional splice assays based on the pSPL3 exon trapping vector. We demonstrated that ten variants, both at canonical and non-canonical splice sites, induced aberrant splicing, including intronic nucleotide retention, exonic nucleotide deletion and exon skipping, resulting in 21 different aberrant transcripts. Of these, eleven were predicted to introduce a premature termination codon. The pathogenicity of all variants was assessed based on established guidelines for variant classification. Incorporation of the results of our functional analyses enabled re-classification of 75% of variants previously classified as variants of uncertain significance into either likely benign or likely pathogenic. Our study is the first in which a systematic characterization of putative CNGA3 splice variants has been performed. We demonstrated the utility of pSPL3 based minigene assays in the effective assessment of putative splice variants. Our findings improve the diagnosis of achromatopsia patients, who may thus benefit from future gene-based therapeutic strategies.
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Choi YJ, Joo K, Lim HT, Kim SS, Han J, Woo SJ. Clinical and Genetic Features of Korean Patients with Achromatopsia. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:519. [PMID: 36833446 PMCID: PMC9957537 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This multicenter study aimed to characterize Korean patients with achromatopsia. The patients' genotypes and phenotypes were retrospectively evaluated. Twenty-one patients (with a mean age at the baseline of 10.9 years) were enrolled and followed up for a mean of 7.3 years. A targeted gene panel or exome sequencing was performed. The pathogenic variants of the four genes and their frequencies were identified. CNGA3 and PDE6C were equally the most prevalent genes: CNGA3 (N = 8, 38.1%), PDE6C (N = 8, 38.1%), CNGB3 (N = 3, 14.3%), and GNAT2 (N = 2, 9.5%). The degree of functional and structural defects varied among the patients. The patients' age exhibited no significant correlation with structural defects. During the follow-up, the visual acuity and retinal thickness did not change significantly. In CNGA3-achromatopsia patients, a proportion of patients with a normal foveal ellipsoid zone on the OCT was significantly higher than that of patients with other causative genes (62.5% vs. 16.7%; p = 0.023). In PDE6C-achromatopsia patients, the same proportion was significantly lower than that of patients with other causative genes (0% vs. 58.3%; p = 0.003). Korean patients with achromatopsia showed similar clinical features but a higher prevalence of PDE6C variants than those of other ethnic groups. The retinal phenotypes of the PDE6C variants were more likely to be worse than those of other genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Je Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangsic Joo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Taek Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
- Orthopia Eye Clinic, Seoul 06162, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinu Han
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
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Zenteno JC, Arce-Gonzalez R, Matsui R, Lopez-Bolaños A, Montes L, Martinez-Aguilar A, Chacon-Camacho OF. Clinical-genetic findings in a group of subjects with macular dystrophies due to mutations in rare inherited retinopathy genes. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2023; 261:353-65. [PMID: 35947183 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-022-05786-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the results of clinical and molecular analyses in a group of patients suffering from inherited macular dystrophies, in which next-generation sequencing (NGS) efficiently detected rare causative mutations. METHODS A total of eight unrelated Mexican subjects with a clinical and multimodal imaging diagnosis of macular dystrophy were included. Visual assessment methods included best corrected visual acuity, color fundus photography, Goldmann visual field tests, kinetic perimetry, dark/light adapted chromatic perimetry, full-field electroretinography, autofluorescence imaging, and spectral domain-optical coherence tomography imaging. Genetic screening was performed by means of whole exome sequencing with subsequent Sanger sequencing validation of causal variants. RESULTS All patients exhibited a predominantly macular or cone-dominant disease. Patients' ages ranged from 12 to 60 years. Three cases had mutations in genes associated with autosomal dominant inheritance (UNC119 and PRPH2) while the remaining five cases had mutations in genes associated with autosomal recessive inheritance (CNGA3, POC1B, BEST1, CYP2U1, and PROM1). Of the total of 11 different pathogenic alleles identified, three were previously unreported disease-causing variants. CONCLUSIONS Macular dystrophies can be caused by defects in genes that are not routinely analyzed or not included in NGS gene panels. In this group of patients, whole exome sequencing efficiently detected rare genetic causes of hereditary maculopathies, and our findings contribute to expanding the current knowledge of the clinical and mutational spectrum associated with these disorders.
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Gerhardt MJ, Priglinger SG, Biel M, Michalakis S. Biology, Pathobiology and Gene Therapy of CNG Channel-Related Retinopathies. Biomedicines 2023; 11. [PMID: 36830806 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The visual process begins with the absorption of photons by photopigments of cone and rod photoreceptors in the retina. In this process, the signal is first amplified by a cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-based signaling cascade and then converted into an electrical signal by cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels. CNG channels are purely ligand-gated channels whose activity can be controlled by cGMP, which induces a depolarizing Na+/Ca2+ current upon binding to the channel. Structurally, CNG channels belong to the superfamily of pore-loop cation channels and share structural similarities with hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide (HCN) and voltage-gated potassium (KCN) channels. Cone and rod photoreceptors express distinct CNG channels encoded by homologous genes. Mutations in the genes encoding the rod CNG channel (CNGA1 and CNGB1) result in retinitis-pigmentosa-type blindness. Mutations in the genes encoding the cone CNG channel (CNGA3 and CNGB3) lead to achromatopsia. Here, we review the molecular properties of CNG channels and describe their physiological and pathophysiological roles in the retina. Moreover, we summarize recent activities in the field of gene therapy aimed at developing the first gene therapies for CNG channelopathies.
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Reichel FF, Michalakis S, Wilhelm B, Zobor D, Muehlfriedel R, Kohl S, Weisschuh N, Sothilingam V, Kuehlewein L, Kahle N, Seitz I, Paquet-Durand F, Tsang SH, Martus P, Peters T, Seeliger M, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Ueffing M, Zrenner E, Biel M, Wissinger B, Fischer D. Three-year results of phase I retinal gene therapy trial for CNGA3-mutated achromatopsia: results of a non randomised controlled trial. Br J Ophthalmol 2022; 106:1567-1572. [PMID: 34006508 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-319067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine long-term safety and efficacy outcomes of a subretinal gene therapy for CNGA3-associated achromatopsia. We present data from an open-label, nonrandomised controlled trial (NCT02610582). METHODS Details of the study design have been previously described. Briefly, nine patients were treated in three escalating dose groups with subretinal AAV8.CNGA3 gene therapy between November 2015 and October 2016. After the first year, patients were seen on a yearly basis. Safety assessment constituted the primary endpoint. On a secondary level, multiple functional tests were carried out to determine efficacy of the therapy. RESULTS No adverse or serious adverse events deemed related to the study drug occurred after year 1. Safety of the therapy, as the primary endpoint of this trial, can, therefore, be confirmed. The functional benefits that were noted in the treated eye at year 1 were persistent throughout the following visits at years 2 and 3. While functional improvement in the treated eye reached statistical significance for some secondary endpoints, for most endpoints, this was not the case when the treated eye was compared with the untreated fellow eye. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate a very good safety profile of the therapy even at the highest dose administered. The small sample size limits the statistical power of efficacy analyses. However, trial results inform on the most promising design and endpoints for future clinical trials. Such trials have to determine whether treatment of younger patients results in greater functional gains by avoiding amblyopia as a potential limiting factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Friedrich Reichel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Bayern, Germany
| | - Barbara Wilhelm
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ditta Zobor
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Regine Muehlfriedel
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Nicole Weisschuh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | | | - Laura Kuehlewein
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Immanuel Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Francois Paquet-Durand
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Mathias Seeliger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | | | - Marius Ueffing
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Eberhard Zrenner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Martin Biel
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Dominik Fischer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany, Tübingen, Germany
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Abstract
In 2001, the first large animal was successfully treated with a gene therapy that restored its vision. Lancelot, the Briard dog that was treated, suffered from a human childhood blindness called Leber's congenital amaurosis type 2. Sixteen years later, the gene therapy was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The success of this gene therapy in dogs led to a fast expansion of the ocular gene therapy field. By now every class of inherited retinal dystrophy has been treated in at least one animal model and many clinical trials have been initiated in humans. In this study, we review the status of viral gene therapies for the retina, with a focus on ongoing human clinical trials. It is likely that in the next decade we will see several new viral gene therapies approved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Yun Cheng
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Ophthalmology, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States;
| | - Claudio Punzo
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Ophthalmology, 368 Plantation Street, Albert Sherman Center, AS6-2041, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, 01605;
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Solaki M, Baumann B, Reuter P, Andreasson S, Audo I, Ayuso C, Balousha G, Benedicenti F, Birch D, Bitoun P, Blain D, Bocquet B, Branham K, Català-Mora J, De Baere E, Dollfus H, Falana M, Giorda R, Golovleva I, Gottlob I, Heckenlively JR, Jacobson SG, Jones K, Jägle H, Janecke AR, Kellner U, Liskova P, Lorenz B, Martorell-Sampol L, Messias A, Meunier I, Belga Ottoni Porto F, Papageorgiou E, Plomp AS, de Ravel TJL, Reiff CM, Renner AB, Rosenberg T, Rudolph G, Salati R, Sener EC, Sieving PA, Stanzial F, Traboulsi EI, Tsang SH, Varsanyi B, Weleber RG, Zobor D, Stingl K, Wissinger B, Kohl S. Comprehensive variant spectrum of the CNGA3 gene in patients affected by achromatopsia. Hum Mutat 2022; 43:832-858. [PMID: 35332618 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a congenital cone photoreceptor disorder characterized by impaired color discrimination, low visual acuity, photosensitivity, and nystagmus. To date, six genes have been associated with ACHM (CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, PDE6H, and ATF6), the majority of these being implicated in the cone phototransduction cascade. CNGA3 encodes the CNGA3 subunit of the cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel in cone photoreceptors and is one of the major disease-associated genes for ACHM. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the CNGA3 variant spectrum in a cohort of 1060 genetically confirmed ACHM patients, 385 (36.3%) of these carrying "likely disease-causing" variants in CNGA3. Compiling our own genetic data with those reported in the literature and in public databases, we further extend the CNGA3 variant spectrum to a total of 316 variants, 244 of which we interpreted as "likely disease-causing" according to ACMG/AMP criteria. We report 48 novel "likely disease-causing" variants, 24 of which are missense substitutions underlining the predominant role of this mutation class in the CNGA3 variant spectrum. In addition, we provide extensive in silico analyses and summarize reported functional data of previously analyzed missense, nonsense and splicing variants to further advance the pathogenicity assessment of the identified variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Solaki
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Britta Baumann
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peggy Reuter
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sten Andreasson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Isabelle Audo
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France
- CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares REFERET, and INSERM-DGOS CIC1423, Paris, France
| | - Carmen Ayuso
- Department of Genetics & Genomics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria - Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital - Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ghassan Balousha
- Department of Pathology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Eastern Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Francesco Benedicenti
- Clinical Genetics Service and South Tyrol Coordination Center for Rare Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Regional Hospital of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - David Birch
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Pierre Bitoun
- Genetique Medicale, CHU Paris Nord, Hopital Jean Verdier, Bondy Cedex, France
| | | | - Beatrice Bocquet
- National Reference Centre for Inherited Sensory Diseases, Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Kari Branham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jaume Català-Mora
- Unitat de Distròfies Hereditàries de Retina Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Helene Dollfus
- CARGO, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- U-1112, Inserm, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mohammed Falana
- Department of Pathology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Eastern Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roberto Giorda
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Scientific Institute IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Irina Golovleva
- Department of Medical Biosciences/Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Umea, Umea, Sweden
| | - Irene Gottlob
- The University of Leicester Ulverscroft Eye Unit, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - John R Heckenlively
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Samuel G Jacobson
- Department of Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kaylie Jones
- Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Herbert Jägle
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Andreas R Janecke
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ulrich Kellner
- Zentrum für Seltene Netzhauterkrankungen, AugenZentrum Siegburg, MVZ Augenärztliches Diagnostik- und Therapiecentrum Siegburg GmbH, Siegburg, Germany
- RetinaScience, Bonn, 53192, Germany
| | - Petra Liskova
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Birgit Lorenz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitaetsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - André Messias
- Department of Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, and Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Isabelle Meunier
- National Reference Centre for Inherited Sensory Diseases, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Sensgene Care Network, France
| | | | - Eleni Papageorgiou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Larissa, Mezourlo, Larissa, Greece
| | - Astrid S Plomp
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomy J L de Ravel
- Centre for Medical Genetics, University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Thomas Rosenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Eye Clinic, Glostrup Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Günther Rudolph
- University Eye Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Roberto Salati
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Pediatric Ophthalmology Unit, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - E Cumhur Sener
- Strabismus and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Private Practice, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Paul A Sieving
- Center for Ocular Regenerative Therapy, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, USA
| | - Franco Stanzial
- Clinical Genetics Service and South Tyrol Coordination Center for Rare Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Regional Hospital of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Elias I Traboulsi
- Center for Genetic Eye Diseases, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Balázs Varsanyi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs and Ganglion Medical Center, Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Richard G Weleber
- Oregon Health & Science University, Ophthalmic Genetics Service of the Casey Eye Institute, 515 SW Campus Drive, 97239, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ditta Zobor
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University Budapest, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katarina Stingl
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Williams KM, Georgiou M, Kalitzeos A, Chow I, Hysi PG, Robson AG, Lingham G, Chen FK, Mackey DA, Webster AR, Hammond CJ, Prokhoda P, Carroll J, Michaelides M, Mahroo OA. Axial Length Distributions in Patients With Genetically Confirmed Inherited Retinal Diseases. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:15. [PMID: 35704304 PMCID: PMC9206393 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.6.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated axial length (AL) distributions in inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), comparing them with reference cohorts. Methods AL measurements from IRD natural history study participants were included and compared with reference cohorts (TwinsUK, Raine Study Gen2-20, and published studies). Comparing with the Raine Study cohort, formal odds ratios (ORs) for AL ≥ 26 mm or AL ≤ 22 mm were derived for each IRD (Firth's logistic regression model, adjusted for age and sex). Results Measurements were available for 435 patients (median age, 19.5 years). Of 19 diseases, 10 had >10 participants: ABCA4 retinopathy; CNGB3- and CNGA3-associated achromatopsia; RPGR-associated disease; RPE65-associated disease; blue cone monochromacy (BCM); Bornholm eye disease (BED); TYR- and OCA2-associated oculocutaneous albinism; and GPR143-associated ocular albinism. Compared with the TwinsUK cohort (n = 322; median age, 65.1 years) and Raine Study cohort (n = 1335; median age, 19.9 years), AL distributions were wider in the IRD groups. Increased odds for longer ALs were observed for BCM, BED, RPGR, RPE65, OCA2, and TYR; increased odds for short AL were observed for RPE65, TYR, and GPR143. In subanalysis of RPGR-associated disease, longer average ALs occurred in cone-rod dystrophy (n = 5) than rod-cone dystrophy (P = 0.002). Conclusions Several diseases showed increased odds for longer AL (highest OR with BCM); some showed increased odds for shorter AL (highest OR with GPR143). Patients with RPE65- and TYR-associated disease showed increased odds for longer and for shorter eyes. Albinism genes were associated with different effects on AL. These findings add to the phenotype of IRDs and may yield insights into mechanisms of refractive error development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Williams
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Jones Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Isabelle Chow
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pirro G Hysi
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony G Robson
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Lingham
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Mackey
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (Incorporating Lions Eye Institute), The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew R Webster
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J Hammond
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Polina Prokhoda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Omar A Mahroo
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, United Kingdom.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, FoLSM, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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19
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Yousaf S, Tariq N, Sajid Z, Sheikh SA, Kausar T, Waryah YM, Shaikh RS, Waryah AM, Sethna S, Riazuddin S, Ahmed ZM. Delineating the Molecular and Phenotypic Spectrum of the CNGA3-Related Cone Photoreceptor Disorder in Pakistani Families. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13. [PMID: 35456423 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cone photoreceptor dysfunction represents a clinically heterogenous group of disorders characterized by nystagmus, photophobia, reduced central or color vision, and macular dystrophy. Here, we described the molecular findings and clinical manifestations of achromatopsia, a partial or total absence of color vision, co-segregating with three known missense variants of CNGA3 in three large consanguineous Pakistani families. Fundus examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging revealed myopia, thin retina, retinal pigment epithelial cells loss at fovea/perifovea, and macular atrophy. Combination of Sanger and whole exome sequencing revealed three known homozygous missense variants (c.827A>G, p.(Asn276Ser); c.847C>T, p.(Arg283Trp); c.1279C>T, p.(Arg427Cys)) in CNGA3, the α-subunit of the cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channel in cone photoreceptor cells. All three variants are predicted to replace evolutionary conserved amino acids, and to be pathogenic by specific in silico programs, consistent with the observed altered membrane targeting of CNGA3 in heterologous cells. Insights from our study will facilitate counseling regarding the molecular and phenotypic landscape of CNGA3-related cone dystrophies.
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20
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Zheng X, Li H, Hu Z, Su D, Yang J. Structural and functional characterization of an achromatopsia-associated mutation in a phototransduction channel. Commun Biol 2022; 5:190. [PMID: 35233102 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03120-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous missense mutations in cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels cause achromatopsia and retinitis pigmentosa, but the underlying pathogenic mechanisms are often unclear. We investigated the structural basis and molecular/cellular effects of R410W, an achromatopsia-associated, presumed loss-of-function mutation in human CNGA3. Cryo-EM structures of the Caenorhabditis elegans TAX-4 CNG channel carrying the analogous mutation, R421W, show that most apo channels are open. R421, located in the gating ring, interacts with the S4 segment in the closed state. R421W disrupts this interaction, destabilizes the closed state, and stabilizes the open state. CNGA3_R410W/CNGB3 and TAX4_R421W channels are spontaneously active without cGMP and induce cell death, suggesting cone degeneration triggered by spontaneous CNG channel activity as a possible cause of achromatopsia. Our study sheds new light on CNG channel allosteric gating, provides an impetus for a reevaluation of reported loss-of-function CNG channel missense disease mutations, and has implications for mutation-specific treatment of retinopathy. The R410W mutation in the cone photoreceptor CNG channel, linked to achromatopsia and assumed to be a loss-of-function variant, causes the channel to open spontaneously as revealed by cryo-EM, electrophysiology and calcium imaging, and is cytotoxic. This study calls for a multipronged evaluation/reevaluation of other inherited mutations associated with CNG channelopathy.
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21
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Xia Y, Li X, Chen X, Lu C, Yu X. Inferring Retinal Degeneration-Related Genes Based on Xgboost. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:843150. [PMID: 35223997 PMCID: PMC8880610 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.843150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal Degeneration (RD) is an inherited retinal disease characterized by degeneration of rods and cones photoreceptor cells and degeneration of retinal pigment epithelial cells. The age of onset and disease progression of RD are related to genes and environment. At present, research has discovered five genes closely related to RD. They are RHO, PDE6B, MERTK, RLBP1, RPGR, and researchers have developed corresponding gene therapy methods. Gene therapy uses vectors to transfer therapeutic genes, genetically modify target cells, and correct or replace disease-causing RD genes. Therefore, identifying the pathogenic genes of RD will play an important role in the development of treatment methods for the disease. However, the traditional methods of identifying RD-related genes are mostly based on animal experiments, and currently only a small number of RD-related genes have been identified. With the increase of biological data, Xgboost is purposed in this article to identify RP-related genes. Xgboost adds a regular term to control the complexity of the model, hence using Xgboost to find out true RD-related genes from complex and massive genes is suitable. The problem of overfitting can be avoided to some extent. To verify the power of Xgboost to identify RD-related genes, we did 10-cross validation and compared with three traditional methods: Random Forest, Back Propagation network, Support Vector Machine. The accuracy of Xgboost is 99.13% and AUC is much higher than other three methods. Therefore, this article can provide technical support for efficient identification of RD-related genes and help researchers have a deeper the understanding of the genetic characteristics of RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojie Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinlin Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changjin Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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22
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Das S, Popp V, Power M, Groeneveld K, Yan J, Melle C, Rogerson L, Achury M, Schwede F, Strasser T, Euler T, Paquet-Durand F, Nache V. Redefining the role of Ca 2+-permeable channels in photoreceptor degeneration using diltiazem. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:47. [PMID: 35013127 PMCID: PMC8748460 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04482-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary degeneration of photoreceptors has been linked to over-activation of Ca2+-permeable channels, excessive Ca2+-influx, and downstream activation of Ca2+-dependent calpain-type proteases. Unfortunately, after more than 20 years of pertinent research, unequivocal evidence proving significant and reproducible photoreceptor protection with Ca2+-channel blockers is still lacking. Here, we show that both D- and L-cis enantiomers of the anti-hypertensive drug diltiazem were very effective at blocking photoreceptor Ca2+-influx, most probably by blocking the pore of Ca2+-permeable channels. Yet, unexpectedly, this block neither reduced the activity of calpain-type proteases, nor did it result in photoreceptor protection. Remarkably, application of the L-cis enantiomer of diltiazem even led to a strong increase in photoreceptor cell death. These findings shed doubt on the previously proposed links between Ca2+ and retinal degeneration and are highly relevant for future therapy development as they may serve to refocus research efforts towards alternative, Ca2+-independent degenerative mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyaparna Das
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Valerie Popp
- Institute of Physiology II, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Power
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Groeneveld
- Institute of Physiology II, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany.,Biomolecular Photonics Group, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Jie Yan
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Melle
- Biomolecular Photonics Group, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Luke Rogerson
- Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlly Achury
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Frank Schwede
- BIOLOG Life Science Institute GmbH & Co KG, 28199, Bremen, Germany
| | - Torsten Strasser
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Euler
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), University of Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Vasilica Nache
- Institute of Physiology II, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany.
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23
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Zheng X, Hu Z, Li H, Yang J. Structure of the human cone photoreceptor cyclic nucleotide-gated channel. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:40-6. [PMID: 34969976 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00699-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels transduce light-induced chemical signals into electrical signals in retinal cone and rod photoreceptors. Structures of native CNG channels, which are heterotetramers formed by CNGA and CNGB subunits, have not been obtained. In the present study, we report a high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structure of the human cone CNG channel in the apo closed state. The channel contains three CNGA3 and one CNGB3 subunits. Arg403 in the pore helix of CNGB3 projects into an asymmetric selectivity filter and forms hydrogen bonds with two pore-lining backbone carbonyl oxygens. Arg442 in S6 of CNGB3 protrudes into and occludes the pore below the hydrophobic cavity gate previously observed in homotetrameric CNGA channels. It is interesting that Arg403Gln is a disease mutation, and Arg442 is replaced by glutamine in some animal species with dichromatic or monochromatic vision. These and other unique structural features and the disease link conferred by CNGB3 indicate a critical role of CNGB3 in shaping cone photoresponses.
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24
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Righetti G, Kempf M, Braun C, Jung R, Kohl S, Wissinger B, Zrenner E, Stingl K, Stingl K. Oscillatory Potentials in Achromatopsia as a Tool for Understanding Cone Retinal Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12717. [PMID: 34884517 PMCID: PMC8657736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia (ACHM) is an inherited autosomal recessive disease lacking cone photoreceptors functions. In this study, we characterize the time-frequency representation of the full-field electroretinogram (ffERG) component oscillatory potentials (OPs), to investigate the connections between photoreceptors and the inner retinal network using ACHM as a model. Time-frequency characterization of OPs was extracted from 52 controls and 41 achromat individuals. The stimulation via ffERG was delivered under dark-adaptation (DA, 3.0 and 10.0 cd·s·m-2) to assess mixed rod-cone responses. The ffERG signal was subsequently analyzed using a continuous complex Morlet transform. Time-frequency maps of both DA conditions show the characterization of OPs, disclosing in both groups two distinct time-frequency windows (~70-100 Hz and >100 Hz) within 50 ms. Our main result indicates a significant cluster (p < 0.05) in both conditions of reduced relative power (dB) in ACHM people compared to controls, mainly at the time-frequency window >100 Hz. These results suggest that the strongly reduced but not absent activity of OPs above 100 Hz is mostly driven by cones and only in small part by rods. Thus, the lack of cone modulation of OPs gives important insights into interactions between photoreceptors and the inner retinal network and can be used as a biomarker for monitoring cone connection to the inner retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Righetti
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (M.K.); (R.J.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
| | - Melanie Kempf
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (M.K.); (R.J.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Christoph Braun
- MEG-Center, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
- CIMeC, Center for Mind/Brain Science, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Ronja Jung
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (M.K.); (R.J.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (S.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Eberhart Zrenner
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
- Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN), University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katarina Stingl
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (M.K.); (R.J.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Krunoslav Stingl
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (M.K.); (R.J.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
- Center for Rare Eye Diseases, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
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25
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Patel VR, Salinas AM, Qi D, Gupta S, Sidote DJ, Goldschen-Ohm MP. Single-molecule imaging with cell-derived nanovesicles reveals early binding dynamics at a cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6459. [PMID: 34753946 PMCID: PMC8578382 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26816-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ligand binding to membrane proteins is critical for many biological signaling processes. However, individual binding events are rarely directly observed, and their asynchronous dynamics are occluded in ensemble-averaged measures. For membrane proteins, single-molecule approaches that resolve these dynamics are challenged by dysfunction in non-native lipid environments, lack of access to intracellular sites, and costly sample preparation. Here, we introduce an approach combining cell-derived nanovesicles, microfluidics, and single-molecule fluorescence colocalization microscopy to track individual binding events at a cyclic nucleotide-gated TAX-4 ion channel critical for sensory transduction. Our observations reveal dynamics of both nucleotide binding and a subsequent conformational change likely preceding pore opening. Kinetic modeling suggests that binding of the second ligand is either independent of the first ligand or exhibits up to ~10-fold positive binding cooperativity. This approach is broadly applicable to studies of binding dynamics for proteins with extracellular or intracellular domains in native cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal R Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Arturo M Salinas
- Department of Physics, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Darong Qi
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Shipra Gupta
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - David J Sidote
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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26
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Lowndes R, Molz B, Warriner L, Herbik A, de Best PB, Raz N, Gouws A, Ahmadi K, McLean RJ, Gottlob I, Kohl S, Choritz L, Maguire J, Kanowski M, Käsmann-Kellner B, Wieland I, Banin E, Levin N, Hoffmann MB, Morland AB, Baseler HA. Structural Differences Across Multiple Visual Cortical Regions in the Absence of Cone Function in Congenital Achromatopsia. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:718958. [PMID: 34720857 PMCID: PMC8551799 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.718958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Most individuals with congenital achromatopsia (ACHM) carry mutations that affect the retinal phototransduction pathway of cone photoreceptors, fundamental to both high acuity vision and colour perception. As the central fovea is occupied solely by cones, achromats have an absence of retinal input to the visual cortex and a small central area of blindness. Additionally, those with complete ACHM have no colour perception, and colour processing regions of the ventral cortex also lack typical chromatic signals from the cones. This study examined the cortical morphology (grey matter volume, cortical thickness, and cortical surface area) of multiple visual cortical regions in ACHM (n = 15) compared to normally sighted controls (n = 42) to determine the cortical changes that are associated with the retinal characteristics of ACHM. Surface-based morphometry was applied to T1-weighted MRI in atlas-defined early, ventral and dorsal visual regions of interest. Reduced grey matter volume in V1, V2, V3, and V4 was found in ACHM compared to controls, driven by a reduction in cortical surface area as there was no significant reduction in cortical thickness. Cortical surface area (but not thickness) was reduced in a wide range of areas (V1, V2, V3, TO1, V4, and LO1). Reduction in early visual areas with large foveal representations (V1, V2, and V3) suggests that the lack of foveal input to the visual cortex was a major driving factor in morphological changes in ACHM. However, the significant reduction in ventral area V4 coupled with the lack of difference in dorsal areas V3a and V3b suggest that deprivation of chromatic signals to visual cortex in ACHM may also contribute to changes in cortical morphology. This research shows that the congenital lack of cone input to the visual cortex can lead to widespread structural changes across multiple visual areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lowndes
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- York Neuroimaging Centre, Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Molz
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lucy Warriner
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Herbik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Pieter B. de Best
- MRI Unit, Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Noa Raz
- MRI Unit, Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Andre Gouws
- York Neuroimaging Centre, Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Khazar Ahmadi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca J. McLean
- University of Leicester Ulverscroft Eye Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Irene Gottlob
- University of Leicester Ulverscroft Eye Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Susanne Kohl
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Clinics Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lars Choritz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - John Maguire
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Kanowski
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Käsmann-Kellner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Hospital and Medical Faculty of the Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Ilse Wieland
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Human Genetics, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Eyal Banin
- Degenerative Diseases of the Retina Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Netta Levin
- MRI Unit, Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michael B. Hoffmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Antony B. Morland
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi A. Baseler
- Department of Psychology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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27
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Rehman AU, Sepahi N, Bedoni N, Ravesh Z, Salmaninejad A, Cancellieri F, Peter VG, Quinodoz M, Mojarrad M, Pasdar A, Asad AG, Ghalamkari S, Piran M, Piran M, Superti-Furga A, Rivolta C. Whole exome sequencing in 17 consanguineous Iranian pedigrees expands the mutational spectrum of inherited retinal dystrophies. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19332. [PMID: 34588515 PMCID: PMC8481312 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98677-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) constitute one of the most heterogeneous groups of Mendelian human disorders. Using autozygome-guided next-generation sequencing methods in 17 consanguineous pedigrees of Iranian descent with isolated or syndromic IRD, we identified 17 distinct genomic variants in 11 previously-reported disease genes. Consistent with a recessive inheritance pattern, as suggested by pedigrees, variants discovered in our study were exclusively bi-allelic and mostly in a homozygous state (in 15 families out of 17, or 88%). Out of the 17 variants identified, 5 (29%) were never reported before. Interestingly, two mutations (GUCY2D:c.564dup, p.Ala189ArgfsTer130 and TULP1:c.1199G > A, p.Arg400Gln) were also identified in four separate pedigrees (two pedigrees each). In addition to expanding the mutational spectrum of IRDs, our findings confirm that the traditional practice of endogamy in the Iranian population is a prime cause for the appearance of IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atta Ur Rehman
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Neda Sepahi
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Nicola Bedoni
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zeinab Ravesh
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Arash Salmaninejad
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Francesca Cancellieri
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Virginie G Peter
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Institute of Experimental Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Majid Mojarrad
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Pasdar
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Medical Genetics Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Applied Medicine, Medical School, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ali Ghanbari Asad
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | | | - Mehran Piran
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Piran
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Andrea Superti-Furga
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carlo Rivolta
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK. .,Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland. .,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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McKyton A, Averbukh E, Marks Ohana D, Levin N, Banin E. Cortical Visual Mapping following Ocular Gene Augmentation Therapy for Achromatopsia. J Neurosci 2021; 41:7363-71. [PMID: 34349002 DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3222-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of the adult human brain to develop function following correction of congenital deafferentation is controversial. Specifically, cases of recovery from congenital visual deficits are rare. CNGA3-achromatopsia is a congenital hereditary disease caused by cone-photoreceptor dysfunction, leading to impaired acuity, photoaversion, and complete color blindness. Essentially, these patients have rod-driven vision only, seeing the world in blurry shades of gray. We use the uniqueness of this rare disease, in which the cone-photoreceptors and afferent fibers are preserved but do not function, as a model to study cortical visual plasticity. We had the opportunity to study two CNGA3-achromatopsia adults (one female) before and after ocular gene augmentation therapy. Alongside behavioral visual tests, we used novel fMRI-based measurements to assess participants' early visual population receptive-field sizes and color regions. Behaviorally, minor improvements were observed, including reduction in photoaversion, marginal improvement in acuity, and a new ability to detect red color. No improvement was observed in color arrangement tests. Cortically, pretreatment, patients' population-receptive field sizes of early visual areas were untypically large, but were decreased following treatment specifically in the treated eye. We suggest that this demonstrates cortical ability to encode new input, even at adulthood. On the other hand, no activation of color-specific cortical regions was demonstrated in these patients either before or up to 1 year post-treatment. The source of this deficiency might be attributed either to insufficient recovery of cone function at the retinal level or to challenges that the adult cortex faces when computing new cone-derived input to achieve color perception.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The possibility that the adult human brain may regain or develop function following correction of congenital deafferentation has fired the imagination of scientists over the years. In the visual domain, cases of recovery from congenital deficits are rare. Gene therapy visual restoration for congenital CNGA3-achromatopsia, a disease caused by cone photoreceptor dysfunction, gave us the opportunity to examine cortical function, to the best of our knowledge for the first time, both before and after restorative treatment. While behaviorally only minor improvements were observed post-treatment, fMRI analysis, including size algorithms of population-receptive fields, revealed cortical changes, specifically receptive field size decrease in the treated eyes. This suggests that, at least to some degree, the adult cortex is able to encode new input.
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Kohl S, Baumann B, Dassie F, Mayer AK, Solaki M, Reuter P, Kühlewein L, Wissinger B, Maffei P. Paternal Uniparental Isodisomy of Chromosome 2 in a Patient with CNGA3-Associated Autosomal Recessive Achromatopsia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7842. [PMID: 34360608 PMCID: PMC8346044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a rare autosomal recessively inherited retinal disease characterized by congenital photophobia, nystagmus, low visual acuity, and absence of color vision. ACHM is genetically heterogeneous and can be caused by biallelic mutations in the genes CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, PDE6H, or ATF6. We undertook molecular genetic analysis in a single female patient with a clinical diagnosis of ACHM and identified the homozygous variant c.778G>C;p.(D260H) in the CNGA3 gene. While segregation analysis in the father, as expected, identified the CNGA3 variant in a heterozygous state, it could not be displayed in the mother. Microsatellite marker analysis provided evidence that the homozygosity of the CNGA3 variant is due to partial or complete paternal uniparental isodisomy (UPD) of chromosome 2 in the patient. Apart from the ACHM phenotype, the patient was clinically unsuspicious and healthy. This is one of few examples proving UPD as the underlying mechanism for the clinical manifestation of a recessive mutation in a patient with inherited retinal disease. It also highlights the importance of segregation analysis in both parents of a given patient or especially in cases of homozygous recessive mutations, as UPD has significant implications for genetic counseling with a very low recurrence risk assessment in such families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Kohl
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Britta Baumann
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Francesca Dassie
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (F.D.); (P.M.)
| | - Anja K. Mayer
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Maria Solaki
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Peggy Reuter
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Laura Kühlewein
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; (B.B.); (A.K.M.); (M.S.); (P.R.); (L.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Pietro Maffei
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (F.D.); (P.M.)
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Georgiou M, Singh N, Kane T, Zaman S, Hirji N, Aboshiha J, Kumaran N, Kalitzeos A, Carroll J, Weleber RG, Michaelides M. Long-Term Investigation of Retinal Function in Patients with Achromatopsia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:38. [PMID: 32960951 PMCID: PMC7509756 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.11.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the long-term natural history of retinal function of achromatopsia (ACHM). Methods Subjects with molecularly confirmed ACHM were recruited in a prospective cohort study of mesopic microperimetry. Coefficient of repeatability and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of mean sensitivity (MS) were calculated. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA), contrast sensitivity (CS), MS, total volume (VTOT), and central field volume (V5°) from volumetric and topographic analyses were acquired. Correlation of functional parameters with structural findings from optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed. Results Eighteen subjects were recruited. Mean follow-up was 7.2 years. The MS test–retest repeatability coefficient was 1.65 decibels (dB), and the ICC was 0.973 (95% confidence interval, 0.837–0.98). Mean MS was similar for right and left eyes (16.97dB and 17.14dB, respectively). A negative significant correlation between logMAR BCVA and the retinal sensitivity indices (MS, VTOT, V5°) was found. A significant negative correlation between logCS and MS, VTOT, and V5° was also observed. BCVA and BCEA improved during follow-up. Mean CS, MS, VTOT, and V5° at final follow-up were similar to baseline. MS was similar between CNGA3- and CNGB3-ACHM. Patients with and without the presence of a foveal ellipsoid zone on OCT had similar MS (16.64 dB and 17.17 dB, respectively). Conclusions We demonstrate a highly reproducible assessment of MS. Retinal function including MS, volumetric indices, and CS are stable in ACHM. Improvement of fixation stability and small changes of BCVA over time may be part of the natural history of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Navjit Singh
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Kane
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Serena Zaman
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nashila Hirji
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Aboshiha
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neruban Kumaran
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Richard G Weleber
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Brunetti-Pierri R, Karali M, Melillo P, Di Iorio V, De Benedictis A, Iaccarino G, Testa F, Banfi S, Simonelli F. Clinical and Molecular Characterization of Achromatopsia Patients: A Longitudinal Study. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1681. [PMID: 33562422 PMCID: PMC7914547 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a rare genetic disorder of infantile onset affecting cone photoreceptors. To determine the extent of progressive retinal changes in achromatopsia, we performed a detailed longitudinal phenotyping and genetic characterization of an Italian cohort comprising 21 ACHM patients (17 unrelated families). Molecular genetic testing identified biallelic pathogenic mutations in known ACHM genes, including four novel variants. At baseline, the patients presented a reduced best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), reduced macular sensitivity (MS), normal dark-adapted electroretinogram (ERG) responses and undetectable or severely reduced light-adapted ERG. The longitudinal analysis of 16 patients (mean follow-up: 5.4 ± 1.0 years) showed a significant decline of BCVA (0.012 logMAR/year) and MS (-0.16 dB/year). Light-adapted and flicker ERG responses decreased below noise level in three and two patients, respectively. Only two patients (12.5%) progressed to a worst OCT grading during the follow-up. Our findings corroborate the notion that ACHM is a progressive disease in terms of BCVA, MS and ERG responses, and affects slowly the structural integrity of the retina. These observations can serve towards the development of guidelines for patient selection and intervention timing in forthcoming gene replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Brunetti-Pierri
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Marianthi Karali
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy;
| | - Paolo Melillo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Valentina Di Iorio
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Antonella De Benedictis
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Gennarfrancesco Iaccarino
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Francesco Testa
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
| | - Sandro Banfi
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy;
- Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (R.B.-P.); (M.K.); (P.M.); (V.D.I.); (A.D.B.); (G.I.); (F.T.)
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Guan R, Hong W, Huang J, Peng T, Zhao Z, Lin Y, Yu M, Jian Z. The expression and prognostic value of GLYATL1 and its potential role in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastrointest Oncol 2020; 11:1305-1321. [PMID: 33457003 PMCID: PMC7807277 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-20-186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glycine-N-acyltransferase-like 1 (GLYATL1), which is involved in the detoxification of endogenous and exogenous acyl-CoA, promotes glutamine metabolism in xenobiotic metabolism. Recent evidence suggests an association between GLYATL1 and tumors. However, there are few comprehensive analyses of GLYATL1 in cancers. We evaluated the expression and prognostic value of GLYATL1 and explored the mechanism underlying the association between GLYATL1 and cancers. METHODS GLYATL1 mRNA expression across cancers was investigated in the Oncomine database and confirmed in the UALCAN and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases. Next, its prognostic value in different cancers was revealed by PrognoScan and Kaplan-Meier plotter. According to clinicopathologic features, we conducted a subgroup analysis of the prognosis of GLYATL1 in a cohort of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the GSE116174 dataset. We further investigated the GLYATL1 promoter methylation profile in HCC. Next, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed via the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database. Finally, we utilized gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to identify significantly enriched pathways and confirmed their associations using the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and GEPIA databases. RESULTS GLYATL1 is downregulated in many cancers and indicates a poor prognosis. Specifically, low GLYATL1 expression was associated with short overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Interestingly, GLYATL1 expression was associated with poor OS in stage I-II HCC patients and was revealed as an independent prognostic factor. The promoter methylation level of GLYATL1 in HCC tissue was significantly higher than that in normal liver tissue. The PPI network suggested that GLYATL1 is co-expressed with ten genes, including CNGA3 and GNB5. GSEA revealed that GLYATL1 is predominantly negatively enriched in xenobiotic metabolism, and the gene association analysis in TIMER and GEPIA showed a significantly negative association between the expression of GLYATL1 and the expression of most genes involved in mitochondrial glutamine metabolism, including SLC1A5 and SLC1A11. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to shed light on the expression and prognostic value of GLYATL1 in cancers and provide a potential regulatory mechanism underlying HCC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renguo Guan
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weifeng Hong
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tianyi Peng
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhixiang Jian
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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Kabra M, Pattnaik BR. Sensing through Non-Sensing Ocular Ion Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6925. [PMID: 32967234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ion channels are membrane-spanning integral proteins expressed in multiple organs, including the eye. In the eye, ion channels are involved in various physiological processes, like signal transmission and visual processing. A wide range of mutations have been reported in the corresponding genes and their interacting subunit coding genes, which contribute significantly to an array of blindness, termed ocular channelopathies. These mutations result in either a loss- or gain-of channel functions affecting the structure, assembly, trafficking, and localization of channel proteins. A dominant-negative effect is caused in a few channels formed by the assembly of several subunits that exist as homo- or heteromeric proteins. Here, we review the role of different mutations in switching a “sensing” ion channel to “non-sensing,” leading to ocular channelopathies like Leber’s congenital amaurosis 16 (LCA16), cone dystrophy, congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB), achromatopsia, bestrophinopathies, retinitis pigmentosa, etc. We also discuss the various in vitro and in vivo disease models available to investigate the impact of mutations on channel properties, to dissect the disease mechanism, and understand the pathophysiology. Innovating the potential pharmacological and therapeutic approaches and their efficient delivery to the eye for reversing a “non-sensing” channel to “sensing” would be life-changing.
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Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a leading cause of blindness in the working age population. The advances in ocular genetics, retinal imaging and molecular biology, have conspired to create the ideal environment for establishing treatments for IRD, with the first approved gene therapy and the commencement of multiple therapy trials. The scope of this review is to familiarize clinicians and scientists with the current landscape of retinal imaging in IRD. Herein we present in a comprehensive and concise manner the imaging findings of: (I) macular dystrophies (MD) [Stargardt disease (ABCA4), X-linked retinoschisis (RS1), Best disease (BEST1), pattern dystrophy (PRPH2), Sorsby fundus dystrophy (TIMP3), and autosomal dominant drusen (EFEMP1)], (II) cone and cone-rod dystrophies (GUCA1A, PRPH2, ABCA4 and RPGR), (III) cone dysfunction syndromes [achromatopsia (CNGA3, CNGB3, PDE6C, PDE6H, GNAT2, ATF6], blue-cone monochromatism (OPN1LW/OPN1MW array), oligocone trichromacy, bradyopsia (RGS9/R9AP) and Bornholm eye disease (OPN1LW/OPN1MW), (IV) Leber congenital amaurosis (GUCY2D, CEP290, CRB1, RDH12, RPE65, TULP1, AIPL1 and NMNAT1), (V) rod-cone dystrophies [retinitis pigmentosa, enhanced S-Cone syndrome (NR2E3), Bietti crystalline corneoretinal dystrophy (CYP4V2)], (VI) rod dysfunction syndromes (congenital stationary night blindness, fundus albipunctatus (RDH5), Oguchi disease (SAG, GRK1), and (VII) chorioretinal dystrophies [choroideremia (CHM), gyrate atrophy (OAT)].
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kaoru Fujinami
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Jinda W, Tuekprakhon A, Thongnoppakhun W, Limwongse C, Trinavarat A, Atchaneeyasakul LO. Molecular and clinical characterization of Thai patients with achromatopsia: identification of three novel disease-associated variants in the CNGA3 and CNGB3 genes. Int Ophthalmol 2020; 41:121-134. [PMID: 32869108 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-020-01559-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Achromatopsia (ACHM) is an autosomal recessive cone disorder characterized by pendular nystagmus, photophobia, reduced visual acuity, and partial or total absence of color vision. Mutations in six genes (CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, PDE6H, and ATF6) have been reported in ACHM. There is no information on these disease-associated genes in Thai population. This study aimed to investigate the molecular and clinical characteristics in Thai patients with ACHM. METHODS Seven unrelated Thai patients with ACHM were recruited. Detailed ophthalmologic examination was performed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-coupled single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) screening followed by Sanger sequencing was used to identify sequence variants in all exons and splice junctions of three genes (CNGA3, CNGB3, and GNAT2). The pathogenicity of the detected variants was interpreted. Segregation analysis was performed to determine variant sharing in available family members. RESULTS Four patients displayed different SSCP migration patterns. Sequence analysis revealed a reported pathogenic and a novel disease-associated variant in the CNGA3 gene. For the CNGB3 gene, we found two novel disease-associated variants and a reported variant of uncertain significance (VUS). Segregation analysis confirmed that the variants identified in each patient were present in the heterozygous state in their corresponding family members, which was consistent with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the first molecular and clinical characterization of ACHM in Thai patients. The identification of disease-associated genes in a specific population leads to a personalized gene therapy benefiting those affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worapoj Jinda
- Division of Medical Genetics Research and Laboratory, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Aekkachai Tuekprakhon
- Clinical Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanna Thongnoppakhun
- Division of Medical Genetics Research and Laboratory, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanin Limwongse
- Division of Medical Genetics Research and Laboratory, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Adisak Trinavarat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - La-Ongsri Atchaneeyasakul
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
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Sun W, Li S, Xiao X, Wang P, Zhang Q. Genotypes and phenotypes of genes associated with achromatopsia: A reference for clinical genetic testing. Mol Vis 2020; 26:588-602. [PMID: 32913385 PMCID: PMC7479066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Achromatopsia is a congenital autosomal recessive cone disorder, and it has been found to be associated with six genes. However, pathogenic variants in these six genes have been identified in patients with various retinal dystrophies with the exception of achromatopsia. Thus, this study aims to investigate the contribution of these genes in hereditary retinal diseases and the potential genotype-phenotype correlations. METHODS Biallelic variants in six achromatopsia-related genes, namely, CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, ATF6, PDE6C, and PDE6H, were analyzed based on data obtained from 7,195 probands with different eye conditions. A systematic genotype-phenotype analysis of these genes was performed based on these data, along with the data reported in the literature. RESULTS Biallelic potential pathogenic variants (PPVs) in five of the six genes were identified in 119 probands with genetic eye diseases. The variants in CNGA3 were the most common and accounted for 81.5% (97/119). Of the 119 probands, 62.2% (74/119) have cone-rod dystrophy, whereas only 25.2% (30/119) have achromatopsia. No biallelic pathogenic variants in these genes were identified in patients with rod-dominant degeneration. A systematic review of genotypes and phenotypes revealed certain characteristics of each of the six genes, providing clues for the pathogenicity evaluation of the variants of the genes. CONCLUSIONS PPVs in the six genes were identified in various inherited retinal degeneration diseases, most of which are cone-dominant diseases but no rod-dominant diseases based on the data from a cohort of 7,195 probands with different eye conditions. The systematic genotype-phenotype analysis of these genes will be useful in drafting guidelines for the clinical genetic diagnostic application for the investigated genes.
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Habibi I, Falfoul Y, Turki A, Hassairi A, El Matri K, Chebil A, Schorderet DF, El Matri L. Genetic spectrum of retinal dystrophies in Tunisia. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11199. [PMID: 32641690 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67792-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the molecular basis of the largest Tunisian cohort with inherited retinal dystrophies (IRD) reported to date, identify disease-causing pathogenic variants and describe genotype-phenotype correlations. A subset of 26 families from a cohort of 73 families with clinical diagnosis of autosomal recessive IRD (AR-IRD) excluding Usher syndrome was analyzed by whole exome sequencing and autozygosity mapping. Causative pathogenic variants were identified in 50 families (68.4%), 42% of which were novel. The most prevalent pathogenic variants were observed in ABCA4 (14%) and RPE65, CRB1 and CERKL (8% each). 26 variants (8 novel and 18 known) in 19 genes were identified in 26 families (14 missense substitutions, 5 deletions, 4 nonsense pathogenic variants and 3 splice site variants), with further allelic heterogeneity arising from different pathogenic variants in the same gene. The most common phenotype in our cohort is retinitis pigmentosa (23%) and cone rod dystrophy (23%) followed by Leber congenital amaurosis (19.2%). We report the association of new disease phenotypes. This research was carried out in Tunisian patients with IRD in order to delineate the genetic population architecture.
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Garafalo AV, Cideciyan AV, Héon E, Sheplock R, Pearson A, WeiYang Yu C, Sumaroka A, Aguirre GD, Jacobson SG. Progress in treating inherited retinal diseases: Early subretinal gene therapy clinical trials and candidates for future initiatives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 77:100827. [PMID: 31899291 PMCID: PMC8714059 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to improved phenotyping and genetic characterization, the field of 'incurable' and 'blinding' inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) has moved substantially forward. Decades of ascertainment of IRD patient data from Philadelphia and Toronto centers illustrate the progress from Mendelian genetic types to molecular diagnoses. Molecular genetics have been used not only to clarify diagnoses and to direct counseling but also to enable the first clinical trials of gene-based treatment in these diseases. An overview of the recent reports of gene augmentation clinical trials by subretinal injections is used to reflect on the reasons why there has been limited success in this early venture into therapy. These first-in human experiences have taught that there is a need for advancing the techniques of delivery of the gene products - not only for refining further subretinal trials, but also for evaluating intravitreal delivery. Candidate IRDs for intravitreal gene delivery are then suggested to illustrate some of the disorders that may be amenable to improvement of remaining central vision with the least photoreceptor trauma. A more detailed understanding of the human IRDs to be considered for therapy and the calculated potential for efficacy should be among the routine prerequisites for initiating a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra V Garafalo
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Elise Héon
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Sheplock
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Alexander Pearson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caberry WeiYang Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Sumaroka
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Gustavo D Aguirre
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Samuel G Jacobson
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Georgiou M, Litts KM, Singh N, Kane T, Patterson EJ, Hirji N, Kalitzeos A, Dubra A, Michaelides M, Carroll J. Intraobserver Repeatability and Interobserver Reproducibility of Foveal Cone Density Measurements in CNGA3- and CNGB3-Associated Achromatopsia. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:37. [PMID: 32832242 PMCID: PMC7414701 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To examine repeatability and reproducibility of foveal cone density measurements in patients with CNGA3 - and CNGB3-associated achromatopsia (ACHM) using split-detection adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO). Methods Thirty foveae from molecularly confirmed subjects with ACHM, half of whom harbored disease-causing variants in CNGA3 and half in CNGB3, underwent nonconfocal split-detection AOSLO imaging. Cone photoreceptors within the manually delineated rod-free zone were manually identified twice by two independent observers. The coordinates of the marked cones were used for quantifying foveal cone density. Cone density and difference maps were generated to compare cone topography between trials. Results We observed excellent intraobserver repeatability in foveal cone density estimates, with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranging from 0.963 to 0.991 for CNGA3 and CNGB3 subjects. Interobserver reproducibility was also excellent for both CNGA3 (ICC = 0.952; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.903-1.0) and CNGB3 (ICC = 0.968; 95% CI, 0.935-1.0). However, Bland-Altman analysis revealed bias between observers. Conclusions Foveal cone density can be measured using the described method with good repeatability and reproducibility both for CNGA3- and CNGB3-associated ACHM. Any degree of bias observed among the observers is of uncertain clinical significance but should be evaluated on a study-specific basis. Translational Relevance This approach could be used to explore disease natural history, as well as to facilitate stratification of patients and monitor efficacy of interventions for ongoing and upcoming ACHM gene therapy trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Katie M Litts
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Navjit Singh
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Thomas Kane
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emily J Patterson
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Nashila Hirji
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Alfredo Dubra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Winkler PA, Occelli LM, Petersen-Jones SM. Large Animal Models of Inherited Retinal Degenerations: A Review. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040882. [PMID: 32260251 PMCID: PMC7226744 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies utilizing large animal models of inherited retinal degeneration (IRD) have proven important in not only the development of translational therapeutic approaches, but also in improving our understanding of disease mechanisms. The dog is the predominant species utilized because spontaneous IRD is common in the canine pet population. Cats are also a source of spontaneous IRDs. Other large animal models with spontaneous IRDs include sheep, horses and non-human primates (NHP). The pig has also proven valuable due to the ease in which transgenic animals can be generated and work is ongoing to produce engineered models of other large animal species including NHP. These large animal models offer important advantages over the widely used laboratory rodent models. The globe size and dimensions more closely parallel those of humans and, most importantly, they have a retinal region of high cone density and denser photoreceptor packing for high acuity vision. Laboratory rodents lack such a retinal region and, as macular disease is a critical cause for vision loss in humans, having a comparable retinal region in model species is particularly important. This review will discuss several large animal models which have been used to study disease mechanisms relevant for the equivalent human IRD.
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Abstract
Background: Achromatopsia has been previously associated with mutations in the ATF6 gene. Rod-monochromatism, foveal hypoplasia, and disruption of the subfoveal photoreceptor layer are described as phenotypical features. We report detailed structural and electrophysiological assessment of two patients from two families, one manifesting severe macular maldevelopment and one with foveal hypoplasia.Materials and methods: The patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination including electroretinography (ERG), spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), fundus autofluorescence, and fundus photography. Genetic testing was performed by next-generation sequencing.Results: In one patient, fundoscopy and SD-OCT revealed well-demarcated coloboma-like excavated lesions at the central macula of both eyes. Genetic analysis identified a novel homozygous p.Asp140Ter mutation in the ATF6 gene. The second patient had foveal hypoplasia in association with a homozygous ATF6 mutation affecting a splice donor site (c.1187 + 5G>C). In both patients, electrophysiological assessment showed normal rod-specific (DA 0.01) and dark-adapted bright white-flash ERGs (DA 10.0). 30 Hz flicker ERGs were undetectable. There were low-amplitude single-flash photopic ERGs (LA 3.0) with timing and shape suggesting S-cone origin.Conclusions: The findings, particularly a case with severe macular maldevelopment, may expand on the phenotype previously associated with ATF6-mediated achromatopsia. In addition, the comprehensive electrophysiological assessment suggests that preserved S-cone activity can be detected in this particular molecular sub-type of cone dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Ritter
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.,Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gavin Arno
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rola Ba-Abbad
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Graham E Holder
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,National University of Singapore, Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Andrew R Webster
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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Mayer AK, Balousha G, Sharkia R, Mahajnah M, Ayesh S, Schulze M, Buchert R, Zobor D, Azem A, Schöls L, Bauer P, Wissinger B. Unraveling the genetic cause of hereditary ophthalmic disorders in Arab societies from Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:742-753. [PMID: 31896775 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0566-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual impairment due to inherited ophthalmic disorders is amongst the most common disabilities observed in populations practicing consanguineous marriages. Here we investigated the molecular genetic basis of an unselected broad range of ophthalmic disorders in 20 consanguineous families from Arab villages of Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Most patients had little or very poor prior clinical workup and were recruited in a field study. Homozygosity mapping followed by candidate gene sequencing applying conventional Sanger sequencing or targeted next generation sequencing was performed in six families. In the remaining 14 families, one affected subject per family was chosen for whole exome sequencing. We discovered likely disease-causing variants, all homozygous, in 19 of 20 independent families (95%) including a previously reported novel disease gene for congenital nystagmus associated with foveal hypoplasia. Moreover, we found a family in which disease-causing variants for two collagenopathies - Stickler and Knobloch syndrome - segregate within a large sibship. Nine of the 19 distinct variants observed in this study were novel. Our study demonstrated a very high molecular diagnostic yield for a highly diverse spectrum of rare ophthalmic disorders in Arab patients from Israel and the Palestinian Authority, even with very limited prior clinical investigation. We conclude that 'genetic testing first' may be an economic way to direct clinical care and to support proper genetic counseling and risk assessment in these families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja K Mayer
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Tuebingen, Germany.,Praxis fuer Humangenetik Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ghassan Balousha
- Department of Pathology and Histology, Al-Quds University, Eastern Jerusalem, Palestinian Authority, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rajech Sharkia
- The Triangle Regional Research and Development Center, Kfar Qari', Israel.,Beit-Berl Academic College, Beit-Berl, Israel
| | - Muhammad Mahajnah
- Child Neurology and Development Center, Hillel-Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel.,The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Suhail Ayesh
- Molecular Genetic Laboratory, Al-Makassed Islamic Charitable Society Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Martin Schulze
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Praxis fuer Humangenetik Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Rebecca Buchert
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ditta Zobor
- University Eye Hospital, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Abdussalam Azem
- The School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, George S. Wise faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ludger Schöls
- Hertie Institute for Brain Research, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,German Center of Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Peter Bauer
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Bernd Wissinger
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Tuebingen, Germany.
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Georgiou M, Robson AG, Singh N, Pontikos N, Kane T, Hirji N, Ripamonti C, Rotsos T, Dubra A, Kalitzeos A, Webster AR, Carroll J, Michaelides M. Deep Phenotyping of PDE6C-Associated Achromatopsia. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:5112-5123. [PMID: 31826238 PMCID: PMC6905659 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To perform deep phenotyping of subjects with PDE6C achromatopsia and examine disease natural history. Methods Eight subjects with disease-causing variants in PDE6C were assessed in detail, including clinical phenotype, best-corrected visual acuity, fundus autofluorescence, and optical coherence tomography. Six subjects also had confocal and nonconfocal adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy, axial length, international standard pattern and full-field electroretinography (ERG), short-wavelength flash (S-cone) ERGs, and color vision testing. Results All subjects presented with early-onset nystagmus, decreased best-corrected visual acuity, light sensitivity, and severe color vision loss, and five of them had high myopia. We identified three novel disease-causing variants and provide phenotype data associated with nine variants for the first time. No subjects had foveal hypoplasia or residual ellipsoid zone (EZ) at the foveal center; one had an absent EZ, three had a hyporeflective zone, and four had outer retinal atrophy. The mean width of the central EZ lesion on optical coherence tomography at baseline was 1923 μm. The mean annual increase in EZ lesion size was 48.3 μm. Fundus autofluorescence revealed a central hypoautofluorescence with a surrounding ring of increased signal (n = 5). The mean hypoautofluorescent area at baseline was 3.33 mm2 and increased in size by a mean of 0.13 mm2/year. Nonconfocal adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy revealed residual foveal cones in only one of two cases. Full-field ERGs were consistent with severe generalized cone system dysfunction but with relative preservation of S-cone sensitivity. Conclusions PDE6C retinopathy is a severe cone dysfunction syndrome often presenting as typical achromatopsia but without foveal hypoplasia. Myopia and slowly progressive maculopathy are common features. There are few (if any) residual foveal cones for intervention in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony G. Robson
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Navjit Singh
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolas Pontikos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Kane
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nashila Hirji
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tryfon Rotsos
- First Division of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, General Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alfredo Dubra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R. Webster
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
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Jacobson MA, Jones LJ, Colussi DJ, Tanaka JC. High-Throughput Ca 2+ Flux Assay To Monitor Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channel Activity and Characterize Achromatopsia Mutant Channel Function. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:3662-3670. [PMID: 31290651 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cone photoreceptor cyclic-nucleotide gated channels (CNG) are tetrameric proteins composed of subunits from CNGA3 and CNGB3. These channels transduce light information into electrical signals carried by both Na+ and Ca2+ ions. More than 100 mutations in the CNGA3 gene are associated with the inherited retinal disorder, achromatopsia 2 (ACHM2), which results in attenuation or loss of color vision, daylight blindness, and reduced visual acuity. Classical techniques to measure CNG channel function utilize patch clamp electrophysiology measuring Na currents in the absence of divalent cations, yet intracellular Ca2+ regulates both light and dark adaptation in photoreceptors. We developed a fluorescence-based, high-throughput Ca2+ flux assay using yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) tagged CNGA3 channels expressed in HEK293 cells which allow monitoring for folding defects in mutant channels. The cell permeant cGMP analog, 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cGMP (CPT-cGMP), was used to activate Ca2+ flux. The assay was validated using wild-type CNGA3 homomeric and heteromeric channels and ACHM2-associated homomeric mutant CNG channels, CNGA3-R427C, CNGA3-E590K, and CNGA3-L633P. Additionally, we examined two naturally occurring canine mutations causing day-blindness previously studied by patch clamp. We compared the CPT-cGMP K0.5 values of the channels with patch clamp values from previous studies. The assay provides a screen for modulation of gating and/or rescue of trafficking and/or misfolding defects in ACHM2-associated CNG channels. Importantly, the calcium flux assay is advantageous compared to patch clamp as it allows the ability to monitor CNG channel activity in the presence of calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene A Jacobson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
- Moulder Center for Drug Discovery Research, School of Pharmacy , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
| | - Laura J Jones
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19122 , United States
| | - Dennis J Colussi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
- Moulder Center for Drug Discovery Research, School of Pharmacy , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19140 , United States
| | - Jacqueline C Tanaka
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology , Temple University , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19122 , United States
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Tobias P, Philipp SI, Stylianos M, Martin B, Barbara W, Felix R, Alexander OG, Eberhart Z, Marius U, Birgit K, Sven K, Ulrich BSK, Dominik FM, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Bolz S, Fischer D, Kohl S, Kühlewein L, Mühlfriedel R, Neubauer J, Ochakovski A, Paquet-Durand F, Seeliger M, Sothilingam V, Ueffing M, Weisschuh N, Wissinger B, Zhour A, Zobor D, Zrenner E, Biel M, Michalakis S, Schön C, Kahle N, Peters T, Wilhelm B, Tsang S, Glöckner CJ. Safety and Toxicology of Ocular Gene Therapy with Recombinant AAV Vector rAAV.hCNGA3 in Nonhuman Primates. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2019; 30:50-56. [DOI: 10.1089/humc.2018.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peters Tobias
- University Eye Hospital Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- STZ Eyetrial, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Michalakis Stylianos
- Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich, Department of Pharmacy – Center for Drug Research, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Biel Martin
- Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich, Department of Pharmacy – Center for Drug Research, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Reichel Felix
- University Eye Hospital Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Zrenner Eberhart
- Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ueffing Marius
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Korte Sven
- Covance Preclinical Services GmbH, Münster, Germany
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Hu J, Wang Y, Le Q, Yu N, Cao X, Kuang S, Zhang M, Gu W, Sun Y, Yang Y, Yan X. Transcriptome sequencing of olfactory-related genes in olfactory transduction of large yellow croaker ( Larimichthy crocea) in response to bile salts. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6627. [PMID: 30918761 PMCID: PMC6431138 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fish produce and release bile salts as chemical signalling substances that act as sensitive olfactory stimuli. To investigate how bile salts affect olfactory signal transduction in large yellow croaker (Larimichthy crocea), deep sequencing of olfactory epithelium was conducted to analyse olfactory-related genes in olfactory transduction. Sodium cholates (SAS) have typical bile salt chemical structures, hence we used four different concentrations of SAS to stimulate L. crocea, and the fish displayed a significant behavioural preference for 0.30% SAS. We then sequenced olfactory epithelium tissues, and identified 9938 unigenes that were significantly differentially expressed between SAS-stimulated and control groups, including 9055 up-regulated and 883 down-regulated unigenes. Subsequent Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses found eight categories linked to the olfactory transduction pathway that was highly enriched with some differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including the olfactory receptor (OR), Adenylate cyclase type 3 (ADCY3) and Calmodulin (CALM). Genes in these categories were analysed by RT-qPCR, which revealed aspects of the pathway transformation between odor detection, and recovery and adaptation. The results provide new insight into the effects of bile salt stimulation in olfactory molecular mechanisms in fishes, and expands our knowledge of olfactory transduction, and signal generation and decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Qijun Le
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Ningbo Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau Technical Centre, Ningbo, China
| | - Na Yu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaohuan Cao
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Siwen Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Weiwei Gu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yibo Sun
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaojun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ministry of Education, Ningbo, China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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48
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Kahle NA, Peters T, Zobor D, Kuehlewein L, Kohl S, Zhour A, Werner A, Seitz IP, Sothilingam V, Michalakis S, Biel M, Ueffing M, Zrenner E, Bartz-Schmidt KU, Fischer MD, Wilhelm BJC. Development of Methodology and Study Protocol: Safety and Efficacy of a Single Subretinal Injection of rAAV.hCNGA3 in Patients with CNGA3-Linked Achromatopsia Investigated in an Exploratory Dose-Escalation Trial. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2019; 29:121-131. [PMID: 30187779 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2018.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Achromatopsia is an autosomal recessively inherited congenital defect characterized by a lack of cone photoreceptor function, leading to severely impaired vision. In this clinical study, achromatopsia patients were treated with a single subretinal injection of rAAV.hCNGA3 to restore cone function. The focus of this trial was on the safety of the treatment. After surgery, patients were monitored in eight extensive visits during the first year, followed by a 4-year follow-up period with annual visits. For essential complementation of the standard ophthalmological and systemic examinations, disease-specific methods were developed to assess the safety, efficacy, and patient-reported outcomes in this trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine A Kahle
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Peters
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ditta Zobor
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Laura Kuehlewein
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Kohl
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ahmad Zhour
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Annette Werner
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Immanuel P Seitz
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Stylianos Michalakis
- 2 Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich CiPSM at the Department of Pharmacy-Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München , Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Biel
- 2 Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich CiPSM at the Department of Pharmacy-Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München , Munich, Germany
| | - Marius Ueffing
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Eberhart Zrenner
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - M Dominik Fischer
- 1 University Hospital Tuebingen , Centre for Ophthalmology, Tuebingen, Germany
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49
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Daneshmandpour Y, Darvish H, Pashazadeh F, Emamalizadeh B. Features, genetics and their correlation in Jalili syndrome: a systematic review. J Med Genet 2019; 56:358-369. [DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2018-105716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Jalili syndrome is a rare genetic disorder first identified by Jalili in Gaza. Amelogenesis imperfecta and cone-rode dystrophy are simultaneously seen in Jalili syndrome patients as the main and primary manifestations. Molecular analysis has revealed that theCNNM4gene is responsible for this rare syndrome. Jalili syndrome has been observed in many countries around the world, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. In the current scoping systematic review we searched electronic databases to find studies related to Jalili syndrome. In this review we summarise the reported clinical symptoms,CNNM4gene and protein structure,CNNM4mutations, attempts to reach a genotype-phenotype correlation, the functional role ofCNNM4mutations, and epidemiological aspects of Jalili syndrome. In addition, we have analysed the reported mutations in mutation effect prediction databases in order to gain a better understanding of the mutation’s outcomes.
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50
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Georgiou M, Litts KM, Kalitzeos A, Langlo CS, Kane T, Singh N, Kassilian M, Hirji N, Kumaran N, Dubra A, Carroll J, Michaelides M. Adaptive Optics Retinal Imaging in CNGA3-Associated Achromatopsia: Retinal Characterization, Interocular Symmetry, and Intrafamilial Variability. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:383-396. [PMID: 30682209 PMCID: PMC6354941 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-25880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate retinal structure in subjects with CNGA3-associated achromatopsia and evaluate disease symmetry and intrafamilial variability. Methods Thirty-eight molecularly confirmed subjects underwent ocular examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and nonconfocal split-detection adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO). OCT scans were used for evaluating foveal hypoplasia, grading foveal ellipsoid zone (EZ) disruption, and measuring outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness. AOSLO images were used to quantify peak foveal cone density, intercell distance (ICD), and the coefficient of variation (CV) of ICD. Results Mean (±SD) age was 25.9 (±13.1) years. Mean (± SD) best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.87 (±0.14) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution. Examination with OCT showed variable disruption or loss of the EZ. Seven subjects were evaluated for disease symmetry, with peak foveal cone density, ICD, CV, ONL thickness, and BCVA not differing significantly between eyes. A cross-sectional evaluation of AOSLO imaging showed a mean (±SD) peak foveal cone density of 19,844 (±13,046) cones/mm2. There was a weak negative association between age and peak foveal cone density (r = -0.397, P = 0.102), as well as between EZ grade and age (P = 0.086). Conclusions The remnant cone mosaics were irregular and variably disrupted, with significantly lower peak foveal cone density than unaffected individuals. Variability was also seen among subjects with identical mutations. Therefore, subjects should be considered on an individual basis for stratification in clinical trials. Interocular symmetry suggests that both eyes have comparable therapeutic potential and the fellow eye can serve as a valid control. Longitudinal studies are needed, to further examine the weak negative association between age and foveal cone structure observed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Georgiou
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katie M. Litts
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Angelos Kalitzeos
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher S. Langlo
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Thomas Kane
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Navjit Singh
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa Kassilian
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nashila Hirji
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neruban Kumaran
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alfredo Dubra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, United States
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Michel Michaelides
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, City Road, London, United Kingdom
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