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Dietrich-Ntoukas T, Bock F, Onderka J, Hos D, Bachmann BO, Zahn G, Cursiefen C. Selective, Temporary Postoperative Inhibition of Lymphangiogenesis by Integrin α5β1 Blockade Improves Allograft Survival in a Murine Model of High-Risk Corneal Transplantation. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4418. [PMID: 39124685 PMCID: PMC11313630 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13154418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Corneal inflammatory hem- and lymphangiogenesis significantly increase the risk for immune rejection after subsequent allogeneic corneal transplantation. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of temporary selective inhibition of lymphangiogenesis after transplantation on graft survival. Methods: Allogeneic transplantation from C57BL/6 mice to BalbC mice was performed as "high-risk" keratoplasty in a prevascularized corneal host bed (suture-induced inflammatory corneal neovascularization). The treatment group received integrin α5β1-blocking small molecules (JSM6427) at the time of transplantation and for two weeks afterwards. Control mice received a vehicle solution. Grafts were evaluated weekly for graft rejection using an opacity score. At the end of the follow-up, immunohistochemical staining of corneal wholemounts for lymphatic vessels as well as CD11b+ immune cells was performed. Results: Temporary postoperative inhibition of lymphangiogenesis by JSM6427 improved the corneal graft survival significantly. At the end of the follow-up, no significant reduction in CD11b+ immunoreactive cells within the graft compared to controls was found. Conclusions: The significant improvement of corneal graft survival by the selective, temporary postoperative inhibition of lymphangiogenesis after keratoplasty using integrin antagonists shows the impact of lymphatic vessels in the early postoperative phase. Retarding lymphatic vessel ingrowth into the graft might be sufficient for the shift to immunological tolerance in the postoperative period, even after high-risk keratoplasty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Dietrich-Ntoukas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (F.B.); (D.H.); (B.O.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Jasmine Onderka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (F.B.); (D.H.); (B.O.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Bjoern O. Bachmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (F.B.); (D.H.); (B.O.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Grit Zahn
- Eternygen GmbH, 10178 Berlin, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (F.B.); (D.H.); (B.O.B.); (C.C.)
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Benichou G, Lancia HH. Intercellular transfer of MHC molecules in T cell alloimmunity and allotransplantation. Biomed J 2024; 47:100749. [PMID: 38797478 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2024.100749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
After transplantation of allogeneic tissues and organs, recognition by recipient T cells of donor MHC molecules initiates the pro-inflammatory adaptive immune response leading to allograft rejection. T cell allorecognition has long been known to be mediated via two distinct pathways: the direct pathway in which T cells recognize intact allogeneic MHC molecules displayed on donor cells and the indirect pathway whereby T cells recognize donor MHC peptides processed and presented by recipient antigen-presenting cells (APCs). It is believed that direct allorecognition is the driving force behind early acute allograft rejection while indirect allorecognition is involved in chronic allograft rejection, a progressive condition characterized by graft vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis. Recently, we and others have reported that after transplantation of allogeneic skin and organs, donor MHC molecules are transferred from donor cells to the host's APCs via trogocytosis or extracellular vesicles. Recipient APCs having captured donor MHC molecules can either present them to T cells in their intact form on their surface (semi-direct pathway) or the form of peptides bound to self-MHC molecules (indirect pathway). The present article provides an overview of recent studies evaluating the role of intercellular exchange of MHC molecules in T cell alloimmunity and its contribution to allograft rejection and tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Benichou
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA.
| | - Hyshem H Lancia
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
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Wang X, Wang P. Effect of a protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitor on the angiogenesis of HUVECs and corneal neovascularization. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2024; 136:154-162. [PMID: 37261487 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-023-02208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a vision-threatening disease and an increasing public health concern. It was found that administering an Akt inhibitor in the second phase of retinopathy significantly decreased retinal neovascularization. METHODS This study investigated the effect of an Akt inhibitor on the angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and its impacts on the degree of CNV and corneal opacity in a rat keratoplasty model. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays, tube formation assays, cell scratch experiments, and a fully allogeneic corneal transplant model were performed. RESULTS It was found that an Akt inhibitor inhibited the proliferation, angiogenesis, and migration of HUVECs induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The results showed that both CNV and corneal opacity were decreased in rats after Akt inhibitor administration. CONCLUSION The research illustrates the vital role of Akt inhibitors in mediating CNV. The analysis shows that the Akt inhibitor may provide a novel and feasible therapeutic approach to prevent CNV, but its mechanism needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1, Youyi Road, Yuanjiagang, Yuzhong District, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Chongqing Eye Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1, Youyi Road, Yuanjiagang, Yuzhong District, 400016, Chongqing, China.
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Atalay E, Altuğ B, Çalışkan ME, Ceylan S, Özler ZS, Figueiredo G, Lako M, Figueiredo F. Animal Models for Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency: A Critical Narrative Literature Review. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:671-696. [PMID: 38280103 PMCID: PMC10853161 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00880-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This literature review will provide a critical narrative overview of the highlights and potential pitfalls of the reported animal models for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and will identify the neglected aspects of this research area. There exists significant heterogeneity in the literature regarding the methodology used to create the model and the predefined duration after the insult when the model is supposedly fully fit for evaluations and/or for testing various therapeutic interventions. The literature is also replete with examples wherein the implementation of a specific model varies significantly across different studies. For example, the concentration of the chemical, as well as its duration and technique of exposure in a chemically induced LSCD model, has a great impact not only on the validity of the model but also on the severity of the complications. Furthermore, while some models induce a full-blown clinical picture of total LSCD, some are hindered by their ability to yield only partial LSCD. Another aspect to consider is the nature of the damage induced by a specific method. As thermal methods cause more stromal scarring, they may be better suited for assessing the anti-fibrotic properties of a particular treatment. On the other hand, since chemical burns cause more neovascularisation, they provide the opportunity to tap into the potential treatments for anti-neovascularisation. The animal species (i.e., rats, mice, rabbits, etc.) is also a crucial factor in the validity of the model and its potential for clinical translation, with each animal having its unique set of advantages and disadvantages. This review will also elaborate on other overlooked aspects, such as the anaesthetic(s) used during experiments, the gender of the animals, care after LSCD induction, and model validation. The review will conclude by providing future perspectives and suggestions for further developments in this rather important area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eray Atalay
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Medical School, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Burcugül Altuğ
- Cellular Therapy and Stem Cell Production Application, Research Centre (ESTEM), Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | | | - Semih Ceylan
- Eskişehir Osmangazi University Medical School, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | | | | | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Francisco Figueiredo
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK.
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Wang S, Mittal SK, Lee S, Herrera AE, Krauthammer M, Elbasiony E, Blanco T, Alemi H, Nakagawa H, Chauhan SK, Dana R, Dohlman TH. Effector T Cells Promote Fibrosis in Corneal Transplantation Failure. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:40. [PMID: 38261311 PMCID: PMC10810018 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.1.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate whether fibrosis contributes to corneal transplant failure and to determine whether effector CD4+ T cells, the key immune cells in corneal transplant rejection, play a direct role in fibrosis formation. Methods Allogeneic corneal transplantation was performed in mice. Graft opacity was evaluated by slit-lamp biomicroscopy, and fibrosis was assessed by in vivo confocal microscopy. Expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in both accepted and failed grafts was assessed by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. Frequencies of graft-infiltrating CD4+ T cells, neutrophils, and macrophages were assessed using flow cytometry. In vitro, MK/T-1 corneal fibroblasts were co-cultured with activated CD4+CD25- effector T cells isolated from corneal transplant recipient mice, and α-SMA expression was quantified by real-time PCR and ELISA. Neutralizing antibody was used to evaluate the role of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in promoting α-SMA expression. Results The majority of failed grafts demonstrated clinical signs of fibrosis which became most evident at week 6 after corneal transplantation. Failed grafts showed higher expression of α-SMA as compared to accepted grafts. Flow cytometry analysis showed a significant increase in CD4+ T cells in failed grafts compared to accepted grafts. Co-culture of activated CD4+CD25- effector T cells with corneal fibroblasts led to an increase in α-SMA expression by fibroblasts. Inhibition of IFN-γ in culture significantly suppressed this increase in α-SMA expression as compared to immunoglobulin G control. Conclusions Fibrosis contributes to graft opacity in corneal transplant failure and is mediated at least in part by effector CD4+ T cells via IFN-γ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shudan Wang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Sharad K. Mittal
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Seokjoo Lee
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Antonio Esquivel Herrera
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Mark Krauthammer
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Elsayed Elbasiony
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Tomas Blanco
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Hamid Alemi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Hayate Nakagawa
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Sunil K. Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Thomas H. Dohlman
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Nakagawa H, Blanco T, Kahale F, Wang S, Musayeva A, Alemi H, Dohlman TH, Dana R. A Novel Murine Model of Endothelial Keratoplasty. Cornea 2023; 42:224-231. [PMID: 36582035 PMCID: PMC9805546 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to establish a murine model of endothelial keratoplasty. METHODS Endothelial keratoplasty (EK) was performed using C57BL/6 donor and BALB/c recipient mice. The central endothelium and Descemet membrane were removed from the recipient cornea, and a 1.5-mm posterior lamellar donor graft was made adherent to the recipient cornea with a small amount of viscoelastic. Mice were followed through slitlamp microscopy postoperatively, and OCT was used to assess the cornea and anterior chamber and measure central corneal thickness. Histology and immunohistochemistry were performed to confirm graft adherence and endothelial cell morphology. RESULTS Successfully attached EK grafts were visualized in all transplanted animals. Histology and immunostaining confirmed proper graft orientation and adherence, as well as the presence of donor endothelium on transplanted grafts. We observed maximal corneal edema in all animals at day 1 postoperatively which gradually subsided. EK graft survival was 97% at 8 weeks. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we describe a novel murine model for EK which we anticipate will enable detailed investigation into the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in EK pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayate Nakagawa
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tomas Blanco
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Francesca Kahale
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shudan Wang
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aytan Musayeva
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hamid Alemi
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas H. Dohlman
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Laboratory of Corneal Immunology, Transplantation and Regeneration, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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7
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Chew LA, Jun AS, Barnett BP. Corneal endothelial transplantation from bench to bedside: A review of animal models and their translational value for therapeutic development. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109241. [PMID: 36075460 PMCID: PMC10782848 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Chew
- Duke University, School of Medicine, 40 Duke Medicine Circle, 124 Davison Building, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Albert S Jun
- Wilmer Eye Institute, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Brad P Barnett
- California LASIK & Eye, 1111 Exposition Blvd., Bldg. 200 Ste. 2000, Sacramento, CA, 95815, USA.
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Quiescent innate and adaptive immune responses maintain the long-term integrity of corneal endothelium reconstituted through allogeneic cell injection therapy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18072. [PMID: 36302875 PMCID: PMC9613641 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22522-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to clarify the immunogenicity in acquired and innate immune responses of cultured human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) applied for cell injection therapy, a newly established modality for corneal endothelium failures. Thirty-four patients with corneal endothelial failure received injection of allogeneic hCEC suspension into anterior chamber. No sign of immunological rejection was observed in all 34 patients during the 5-8 years postoperative follow-up period. Cell injection therapy was successful in 2 patients treated for endothelial failure after penetrating keratoplasty and one patient with Descemet membrane stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty failure. ELISPOT assays performed in allo-mixed lymphocyte reaction to the alloantigen identical to that on the injected hCECs, elicited sparse IFN-γ-specific spots in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients who received hCEC injection. The therapy generated simple and smooth graft-host junctions without wound stress. The injection of C57BL/6 CECs into the anterior chamber of BALB/c mice, which rejected C57BL/6 corneas 6 weeks ago, induced no sign of inflammatory reactions after the second challenge of alloantigen. Collectively, injection of the hCEC cell suspension in the aqueous humor induces immune tolerance that contributes to the survival of the reconstituted endothelium.
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JAK2 gene knockout inhibits corneal allograft rejection in mice by regulating dendritic cell-induced T cell immune tolerance. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:289. [PMID: 35710633 PMCID: PMC9203759 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01067-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Corneal allograft rejection can be seen in some patients after corneal transplantation. The present study intends to investigate whether JAK2 gene knockout affects corneal allograft rejection through regulation of dendritic cells (DCs)-induced T cell immune tolerance. In order to identify the target gene related to corneal allograft rejection, high-throughput mRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were performed. JAK2 knockout mice were constructed and subjected to corneal allograft transplantation. The incidence of immune rejection was observed, the percentage of CD4+ T cells was detected, and the expression of Th1 cytokine interferon γ (IFN-γ) was determined. Flow cytometry and ELISA were performed to analyze the effects of JAK2 gene knockout on bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs). JAK2 was the target gene related to corneal allograft rejection. JAK2 gene knockout contributed to significantly prolonged survival time of corneal grafts in mice and inhibited corneal allograft rejection. The in vitro cell experiment further confirmed that JAK2 gene knockout contributed to the inactivation of CD4+ T cells and induced IFN-γ expression, accompanied by inhibition of DC immune function, development, maturation, and secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Collectively, JAK2 gene knockout inactivates CD4+ T cells to decrease IFN-γ expression, as well as inhibits DC development, maturation, and secretion of inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing corneal allograft rejection.
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Zhang W, Schönberg A, Bock F, Cursiefen C. Posttransplant VEGFR1R2 Trap Eye Drops Inhibit Corneal (Lymph)angiogenesis and Improve Corneal Allograft Survival in Eyes at High Risk of Rejection. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:6. [PMID: 35533080 PMCID: PMC9100603 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.5.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess whether topical application of VEGFR1R2 Trap after corneal transplantation can impair corneal (lymph)angiogenesis and promote murine corneal allograft survival in eyes at high risk of rejection. Methods We used the murine model of suture-induced neovascularization and subsequent keratoplasty in eyes at high risk of rejection, which is an established model for local drug application. After transplantation, the mice were treated with either VEGFR1R2 Trap (aflibercept) or human IgG Fc as eye drops for 2 weeks (three times/d). Deposition of VEGFR1R2 Trap in corneal tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry. Two and 8 weeks after transplantation, corneal (lymph)angiogenesis was assessed morphometrically. Dendritic cells (DCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the draining lymph nodes (dLNs) were examined by flow cytometry. Allograft survival was determined by corneal graft opacity scores. Results Topically applied VEGFR1R2 Trap penetrated into corneal host and graft stroma after keratoplasty in eyes at high risk of rejection. Additional postsurgical corneal hemangiogenesis (P < 0.0001) and lymphangiogenesis (P < 0.01) as well as infiltrating CD45+ leukocytes (P < 0.001) and macrophages (P < 0.01) were significantly reduced in the VEGFR1R2 Trap group compared to controls. VEGFR1R2 Trap eye drops significantly decreased the frequency of total CD11c+ DCs (P < 0.01), as well as activated CD11c+MHC II+ DCs (P < 0.01) and CD11c+CD40+ DCs (P < 0.05). In contrast, the frequency of CD200R+ regulatory DCs (P < 0.05) and Tregs in dLNs (P < 0.01) was enhanced. Moreover, long-term allograft survival was also improved (P < 0.05). Conclusions Temporary, topical application of VEGFR1R2 Trap after corneal transplantation can achieve sufficient anti-VEGF activity, inhibit additional (lymph)angiogenesis, and significantly improve corneal allograft survival in eyes at high risk of rejection. Translational Relevance VEGFR1R2 Trap eye drops after transplantation present a new therapeutic option for patients undergoing corneal transplantation and are at high risk of graft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alfrun Schönberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Lužnik Marzidovšek Z, Blanco T, Sun Z, Alemi H, Ortiz G, Nakagawa H, Chauhan SK, Taylor AW, Jurkunas UV, Yin J, Dana R. The Neuropeptide Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone Is Critical for Corneal Endothelial Cell Protection and Graft Survival after Transplantation. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:270-280. [PMID: 34774519 PMCID: PMC8908049 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most common form of tissue transplantation. The success of corneal transplantation mainly relies on the integrity of corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs), which maintain tissue transparency by pumping out excess water from the cornea. After transplantation, the rate of CEnC loss far exceeds that seen with normal aging, which can threaten sight. The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a neuropeptide that is constitutively found in the aqueous humor with both cytoprotective and immunomodulatory effects. The curent study found high expression of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), the receptor for α-MSH, on CEnCs. The effect of α-MSH/MC1R signaling on endothelial function and allograft survival in vitro and in vivo was investigated using MC1R signaling-deficient mice (Mc1re/e mice with a nonfunctional MC1R). Herein, the results indicate that in addition to its well-known immunomodulatory effect, α-MSH has cytoprotective effects on CEnCs after corneal transplantation, and the loss of MC1R signaling significantly decreases long-term graft survival in vivo. In conclusion, α-MSH/MC1R signaling is critical for CEnC function and graft survival after corneal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zala Lužnik Marzidovšek
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts,Eye Hospital, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomas Blanco
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Zhongmou Sun
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hamid Alemi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gustavo Ortiz
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hayate Nakagawa
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sunil K. Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew W. Taylor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ula V. Jurkunas
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jia Yin
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts,Address correspondence to Reza Dana, M.D., M.P.H., M.Sc., or Jia Yin, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford St., Boston, MA 02114.
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts,Address correspondence to Reza Dana, M.D., M.P.H., M.Sc., or Jia Yin, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford St., Boston, MA 02114.
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Zhang W, Schönberg A, Hamdorf M, Georgiev T, Cursiefen C, Bock F. Preincubation of donor tissue with a VEGF cytokine trap promotes subsequent high-risk corneal transplant survival. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:1617-1626. [PMID: 34810177 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-319745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Pathological neovascularisation of the host bed and the transplant itself is the main risk factor for graft rejection after corneal transplantation. This study aims to prevent this process by preincubation of the corneal donor tissue ex vivo with an antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) cytokine trap blocking additional postsurgical hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis to promote high-risk graft survival. METHODS The donor tissue was preincubated with a VEGFR1R2 cytokine trap for 24 hours prior to murine high-risk corneal transplantation (human IgG Fc was used as the control). The distribution of VEGFR1R2 Trap in the cornea was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Corneas were excised to quantify the blood vessels (BVs) and lymphatic vessels (LVs) and draining lymph nodes (dLNs) were harvested to analyse the phenotype of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells at week 1, 2 and 8 post-transplantation. Graft survival was compared between preincubation with VEGFR1R2 Trap and human IgG Fc in high-risk recipients. RESULTS VEGFR1R2 Trap was present in the graft for at least 2 weeks after surgery and additionally diffused into the corneal recipient. BVs, LVs and macrophages in the whole cornea were significantly decreased 1-week and 2-week post-transplantation (p<0.05). In dLNs the frequency of CD11c+DCs was significantly reduced, whereas CD200R+ regulatory DCs were significantly increased after keratoplasty (p<0.05). Furthermore, long-term high-risk graft survival was significantly improved (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Preincubation of corneal donor tissue with a VEGFR1R2 cytokine trap can significantly promote subsequent high-risk corneal transplant survival and thereby opens new treatment avenues for high-risk corneal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, Hebei Eye Hospital, Xingtai, Hebei, China
| | - Alfrun Schönberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Matthias Hamdorf
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tihomir Georgiev
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany .,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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13
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Nakagawa H, Blanco T, Kahale F, Bir Singh R, Dohlman TH, Dana R. Novel adaptation of a running suture technique in a mouse model of corneal transplantation. J Biol Methods 2021; 8:e156. [PMID: 35028328 PMCID: PMC8748801 DOI: 10.14440/jbm.2021.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Several murine models of corneal transplantation have been developed over the years to study the immunopathological processes that lead to the failure of grafted corneas. In all of them, the classic eight interrupted sutures technique is utilized for transplanting the donor cornea on the host bed. However, in clinical practice, a single continuous suture with a single knot is generally performed for corneal transplantation. Here, we describe the adaptation of the single continuous suture technique in a mouse model of corneal transplantation.
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14
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Cayabyab F, Nih LR, Yoshihara E. Advances in Pancreatic Islet Transplantation Sites for the Treatment of Diabetes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:732431. [PMID: 34589059 PMCID: PMC8473744 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.732431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a complex disease that affects over 400 million people worldwide. The life-long insulin injections and continuous blood glucose monitoring required in type 1 diabetes (T1D) represent a tremendous clinical and economic burdens that urges the need for a medical solution. Pancreatic islet transplantation holds great promise in the treatment of T1D; however, the difficulty in regulating post-transplantation immune reactions to avoid both allogenic and autoimmune graft rejection represent a bottleneck in the field of islet transplantation. Cell replacement strategies have been performed in hepatic, intramuscular, omentum, and subcutaneous sites, and have been performed in both animal models and human patients. However more optimal transplantation sites and methods of improving islet graft survival are needed to successfully translate these studies to a clinical relevant therapy. In this review, we summarize the current progress in the field as well as methods and sites of islet transplantation, including stem cell-derived functional human islets. We also discuss the contribution of immune cells, vessel formation, extracellular matrix, and nutritional supply on islet graft survival. Developing new transplantation sites with emerging technologies to improve islet graft survival and simplify immune regulation will greatly benefit the future success of islet cell therapy in the treatment of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fritz Cayabyab
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Lina R. Nih
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Eiji Yoshihara
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Eiji Yoshihara,
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15
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Wei C, Ma L, Chi H, Li L, Zhang S, Yin W, Liu T, Gao H, Shi W. The NLRP3 inflammasome regulates corneal allograft rejection through enhanced phosphorylation of STAT3. Am J Transplant 2020; 20:3354-3366. [PMID: 32583615 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.16071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The success of corneal transplantation is limited by allograft rejection, but the pathogenic mechanisms of this disease remain poorly defined. In this study, we showed that the NOD, LRR-and pyrin domain-containing protein3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated interleukin-1β (IL-1β) production exacerbated corneal allograft rejection. Extracellular ATP contributed to the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated IL-1β release, which in turn was preferentially skewed toward Th17 differentiation via enhanced phosphorylation of STAT3. Pharmacological inhibition of IL-1β/IL-6-STAT3 signaling significantly delayed corneal allograft rejection. Thus, the identification of NLRP3 inflammasome's key role sheds new light on the pathogenesis of corneal allograft rejection and opens a potential new avenue for treating or preventing corneal allograft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wei
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Li Ma
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Hao Chi
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Sai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,School of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Jinan-Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Wenhui Yin
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Department of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ting Liu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Hua Gao
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Weiyun Shi
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
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16
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Narimatsu A, Hattori T, Usui Y, Ueno H, Funaki T, Komatsu H, Nakagawa H, Akiba H, Goto H. Blockade of costimulatory CD27/CD70 pathway promotes corneal allograft survival. Exp Eye Res 2020; 199:108190. [PMID: 32798537 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether the CD27/CD70 pathway plays a significant role in corneal allograft rejection by investigating the effect of blocking the CD27/CD70 pathway by anti-CD70 antibody on corneal allograft survival. METHODS Orthotopic penetrating keratoplasty was performed using C57BL/6 donor grafts and BALB/c recipients. Expression of CD27 and CD70 on rejected cornea was examined by immunohistochemistry. Corneal transplant recipients received intraperitoneal injection of anti-CD70 antibody (FR70) or control rat IgG. Alloreactivity was measured by mixed lymphoid reaction (MLR) in recipients administered control rat IgG and those administered anti-CD70 antibody. Corneal expression of IFN-γ and IL-12 was also examined in both groups. Graft opacity was assessed over an 8-week period and graft survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Proportion of CD4+CD44+ memory T cells in lymph nodes was measured by flow cytometry. RESULTS CD4+CD27+ cells and CD11c+CD70+ cells were present in rejected cornea. Anti-CD70 antibody administration suppressed alloreactivity in corneal allograft recipients, and inhibited IFN-γ expression in recipient cornea (p < 0.05). Anti-CD70 antibody suppressed opacity score of recipient cornea and prolonged corneal allograft survival (p < 0.05). Proportion of CD4+CD44+ memory T cells in recipient lymph nodes was reduced by anti-CD70 antibody treatment. CONCLUSION The CD27/CD70 pathway plays a significant role in corneal allograft rejection by initiating alloreactive Th1 cells and preserving memory T cells. Anti-CD70 antibody administration prolongs corneal allograft survival indicating the potential therapeutic effect of CD27/CD70 pathway blockade on corneal allograft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akitomo Narimatsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Takaaki Hattori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiko Usui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueno
- Department of Immunology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1, Sugao, Miyamae-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 216-8511, Japan
| | - Toshinari Funaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8431, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Komatsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Hayate Nakagawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Hisaya Akiba
- Department of Immunology, Juntendo University, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8431, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Goto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
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17
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Salabarria AC, Koch M, Schönberg A, Zinser E, Hos D, Hamdorf M, Imhof T, Braun G, Cursiefen C, Bock F. Topical VEGF-C/D Inhibition Prevents Lymphatic Vessel Ingrowth into Cornea but Does Not Improve Corneal Graft Survival. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051270. [PMID: 32353986 PMCID: PMC7287580 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-C/D (VEGF-C/D) regulates lymphangiogenesis. Ingrowth of lymphatic vessels is negatively associated with corneal transplantation success. In this study, we therefore analyzed the effect local blockade of VEGF-C/D has on inflamed corneas. We used the murine model of suture-induced neovascularization and subsequent high-risk corneal transplantation. Mice were treated with a VEGF-C/D trap prior to transplantation. Topical inhibition of VEGF-C/D significantly reduced lymphatic vessel ingrowth, but increased Macrophage numbers in the cornea. Furthermore, corneal transplantation success was not improved by the topical application of the compound. This study demonstrates that local VEGF-C/D inhibition is insufficient to increases corneal transplantation success, likely due to interaction with immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Charlott Salabarria
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology and Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Alfrun Schönberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Zinser
- Department of Immune Modulation, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrixch-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nuremberg, D-91052 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Matthias Hamdorf
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Imhof
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology and Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Gabriele Braun
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-221-478-97789
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18
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A Novel CD147 Inhibitor, SP-8356, Attenuates Pathological Fibrosis in Alkali-Burned Rat Cornea. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082990. [PMID: 32340317 PMCID: PMC7215672 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The corneal fibrotic responses to corneal damage often lead to severe corneal opacification thereby resulting in severe visual impairment or even blindness. The persistence of corneal opacity depends heavily on the activity of corneal myofibroblast. Myofibroblasts are opaque and synthesize a disorganized extracellular matrix (ECM) and thus promoting opacification. Cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147), a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, is known to play important roles in the differentiation process from fibroblast to myofibroblast in damaged cornea and may therefore be an effective target for treatment of corneal opacity. Here, we examined the therapeutic efficacy of novel CD147 inhibiting verbenone derivative SP-8356 ((1S,5R)-4-(3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxystyryl)-6,6-dimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]hept-3-en-2-one) on corneal fibrosis. Topical SP-8356 significantly reduced corneal haze and fibrosis in the alkali-burned cornea. In detail, SP-8356 inhibited both alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressing myofibroblast and its ECM-related products, such as matrix-metalloproteinase-9 and collagen type III and IV. Similar to SP-8356, topical corticosteroid (prednisolone acetate, PA) also reduced the ECM-related products and opacification. However, prednisolone acetate failed to decrease the population of α-SMA-positive corneal myofibroblast. In conclusion, SP-8356 is capable enough to prevent corneal haze by preventing pathological fibrosis after severe corneal damage. Therefore, SP-8356 could be a potentially promising therapeutic drug for corneal fibrosis.
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19
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Salabarria AC, Braun G, Heykants M, Koch M, Reuten R, Mahabir E, Cursiefen C, Bock F. Local VEGF-A blockade modulates the microenvironment of the corneal graft bed. Am J Transplant 2019; 19:2446-2456. [PMID: 30821887 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The microenvironment plays an important role in several immunological processes. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) not only regulates angiogenesis, but is known as a modulator of the immune microenvironment. Modulating the site of transplantation might be beneficial for subsequent transplant survival. In this study, we therefore analyzed the effect that a local blockade of VEGF-A in the inflamed cornea as the graft receiving tissue has on the immune system. We used the murine model of suture-induced neovascularization and subsequent high-risk corneal transplantation, which is an optimal model for local drug application. Mice were treated with VEGFR1/R2 trap prior to transplantation. We analyzed corneal gene expression, as well as protein levels in the cornea and serum on the day of transplantation, 2 and 8 weeks later. Local VEGF depletion prior to transplantation increases the expression of pro-inflammatory as well as immune regulatory cytokines only in the corneal microenvironment, but not in the serum. Furthermore, local VEGFR1/R2 trap treatment significantly inhibits the infiltration of CD11c+ dendritic cells into the cornea. Subsequent increased corneal transplantation success was accompanied by a local upregulation of Foxp3 gene expression. This study demonstrates that locally restricted VEGF depletion increases transplantation success by modulating the receiving corneal microenvironment and inducing tolerogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriele Braun
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Malte Heykants
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology and Center for Biochemistry, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raphael Reuten
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Esther Mahabir
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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20
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Hos D, Matthaei M, Bock F, Maruyama K, Notara M, Clahsen T, Hou Y, Le VNH, Salabarria AC, Horstmann J, Bachmann BO, Cursiefen C. Immune reactions after modern lamellar (DALK, DSAEK, DMEK) versus conventional penetrating corneal transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 73:100768. [PMID: 31279005 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, novel lamellar keratoplasty techniques such as Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) for anterior keratoplasty and Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK)/Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for posterior keratoplasty have been developed. DALK eliminates the possibility of endothelial allograft rejection, which is the main reason for graft failure after penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Compared to PK, the risk of endothelial graft rejection is significantly reduced after DSAEK/DMEK. Thus, with modern lamellar techniques, the clinical problem of endothelial graft rejection seems to be nearly solved in the low-risk situation. However, even with lamellar grafts there are epithelial, subepithelial and stromal immune reactions in DALK and endothelial immune reactions in DSAEK/DMEK, and not all keratoplasties can be performed in a lamellar fashion. Therefore, endothelial graft rejection in PK is still highly relevant, especially in the "high-risk" setting, where the cornea's (lymph)angiogenic and immune privilege is lost due to severe inflammation and pathological neovascularization. For these eyes, currently available treatment options are still unsatisfactory. In this review, we will describe currently used keratoplasty techniques, namely PK, DALK, DSAEK, and DMEK. We will summarize their indications, provide surgical descriptions, and comment on their complications and outcomes. Furthermore, we will give an overview on corneal transplant immunology. A specific focus will be placed on endothelial graft rejection and we will report on its incidence, clinical presentation, and current/future treatment and prevention options. Finally, we will speculate how the field of keratoplasty and prevention of corneal allograft rejection will develop in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mario Matthaei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kazuichi Maruyama
- Department of Innovative Visual Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Japan
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Clahsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yanhong Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Viet Nhat Hung Le
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Department of Ophthalmology, Hue College of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Viet Nam
| | | | - Jens Horstmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bjoern O Bachmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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21
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Foulsham W, Mittal SK, Nakao T, Coco G, Taketani Y, Chauhan SK, Dana R. The purinergic receptor antagonist oxidized adenosine triphosphate suppresses immune-mediated corneal allograft rejection. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8617. [PMID: 31197223 PMCID: PMC6565802 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44973-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released into the extracellular environment during transplantation, and acts via purinergic receptors to amplify the alloimmune response. Here, using a well-established murine model of allogeneic corneal transplantation, we investigated the immunomodulatory mechanisms of the purinergic receptor antagonist oxidized ATP (oATP). Corneal transplantation was performed using C57BL/6 donors and BALB/c hosts. oATP or sterile saline was administered via intraperitoneal injection for 2 weeks postoperatively. Frequencies of CD45+ leukocytes, CD11b+MHCII+ antigen presenting cells (APCs), CD4+IFN-γ+ effector Th1 cells and CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) were evaluated by flow cytometry. Slit-lamp microscopy was performed weekly for 8 weeks to evaluate graft opacity and determine transplant rejection. Treatment with oATP was shown to significantly reduce graft infiltration of CD45+ leukocytes, decrease APC maturation and suppress effector Th1 cell generation relative to saline-treated control. No difference in Treg frequencies or Foxp3 expression was observed between the oATP-treated and control groups. Finally, oATP treatment was shown to reduce graft opacity and increase graft survival. This report demonstrates that oATP limits the alloimmune response by regulating APC maturation and suppressing the generation of alloreactive Th1 immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Foulsham
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sharad K Mittal
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Takeshi Nakao
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Giulia Coco
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Clinical Science and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Yukako Taketani
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sunil K Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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22
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H. Dohlman
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jia Yin
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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23
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulatory T (Treg) cell-based immunotherapies have been studied as potential cell-based modalities for promoting transplant survival. However, the efficacy of local delivery of Treg cells in corneal transplantation has not been fully elucidated. Herein, we investigated the kinetics of migration of subconjunctivally injected Treg cells and their role in promoting corneal allograft survival. METHODS GFPCD4CD25Foxp3 Treg cells were isolated from draining lymph nodes (DLNs) of GFP transgenic mice and were subconjunctivally injected to corneal allograft recipients. Next, Treg cells, conventional T cells (Tconv) or a combination of both was locally injected to graft recipients, and graft survival was determined by evaluating opacity scores for 10 weeks. Transplanted mice without treatment served as controls. The frequencies of major histocompatibility complex-IICD11b antigen-presenting cells, IFNγCD4 Th1 cells, and CD45 cells in the DLNs and cornea were evaluated at week 2 posttransplantation using flow cytometry. Expressions of IFNγ, IL-10 and TGF-β in the grafts were assessed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS GFP Treg cells were detected in the ipsilateral cornea and DLNs of recipients 6 hours after injection. Subconjunctival injection of Treg cells significantly decreased the frequencies of mature antigen-presenting cells in the graft and DLNs, suppressed Th1 frequencies in DLNs, and inhibited CD45 cell infiltration to the graft. Finally, locally delivered Treg cells significantly reduced the expression of IFN-γ, enhanced the levels of IL-10 and TGF-β in the graft, and promoted long-term allograft survival. CONCLUSIONS Our study elucidates the kinetics of migration of locally delivered Treg cells and shows their role in suppressing host immune response against the allograft.
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Reuer T, Schneider AC, Cakir B, Bühler AD, Walz JM, Lapp T, Lange C, Agostini H, Schlunck G, Cursiefen C, Reinhard T, Bock F, Stahl A. Semaphorin 3F Modulates Corneal Lymphangiogenesis and Promotes Corneal Graft Survival. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:5277-5284. [PMID: 30383199 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Corneal vascularization significantly increases the risk for graft rejection after keratoplasty. Semaphorin 3F (Sema3F) is a known modulator of physiologic avascularity in the outer retina. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Sema3F is involved in maintaining corneal avascularity and can reduce the risk for corneal graft rejection. Methods Corneal Sema3F expression was investigated using immunohistochemistry and qPCR in human and murine tissue. Pathologic invasion of blood and lymph vessels into corneal tissue was analyzed in the murine corneal suture and high-risk keratoplasty model. The anti-lymphangiogenic effects of Sema3F were further investigated using an in vitro spheroidal sprouting model with supernatant from isolated primary human corneal epithelial cells (hCECs). Results Sema3F is constitutively expressed in human and murine corneal epithelium. In the corneal suture model, lymphangiogenesis was significantly suppressed by topical Sema3F treatment (P = 0.0003). In the murine high-risk keratoplasty model, pretreatment by topical Sema3F in the inflammation phase significantly promoted subsequent graft survival (P = 0.0006). In this model, both lymph- and blood angiogenesis were reduced (P < 0.05). In vitro, hCEC supernatant had a direct anti-lymphangiogenic effect on human lymphatic endothelial cells (P < 0.01). This effect was completely abolished by addition of anti-Sema3F antibodies. Conclusions Sema3F is a novel mediator of corneal avascularity with potent anti-lymphangiogenic properties. Topical treatment with Sema3F eye drops may help to limit corneal vascularization and improve outcomes in high-risk keratoplasty patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Reuer
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Bertan Cakir
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anima D Bühler
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johanna M Walz
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thabo Lapp
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Clemens Lange
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Stahl
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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25
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Hori J, Yamaguchi T, Keino H, Hamrah P, Maruyama K. Immune privilege in corneal transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 72:100758. [PMID: 31014973 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most successful solid organ transplantation performed in humans. The extraordinary success of orthotopic corneal allografts, in both humans and experimental animals, is related to the phenomenon of "immune privilege". Inflammation is self-regulated to preserve ocular functions because the eye has immune privilege. At present, three major mechanisms are considered to provide immune privilege in corneal transplantation: 1) anatomical, cellular, and molecular barriers in the cornea; 2) tolerance related to anterior chamber-associated immune deviation and regulatory T cells; and 3) an immunosuppressive intraocular microenvironment. This review describes the mechanisms of immune privilege that have been elucidated from animal models of ocular inflammation, especially those involving corneal transplantation, and its relevance for the clinic. An update on molecular, cellular, and neural interactions in local and systemic immune regulation is provided. Therapeutic strategies for restoring immune privilege are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Hori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8603, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tama-Nagayama Hospital, 1-7-1 Nagayama, Tama, Tokyo, 206-8512, Japan.
| | - Takefumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, 5-11-13 Sugano, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba, 272-8513, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Keino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, 6-20-2 Shinkawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, 181-8611, Japan
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Kazuichi Maruyama
- Department of Innovative Visual Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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26
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Wang H, Zhao Q, Luo D, Yin Y, Li T, Zhao M. Resolvin E1 Inhibits Corneal Allograft Rejection in High-Risk Corneal Transplantation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:3911-3919. [PMID: 30073362 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effects of Resolvin E1 (RvE1) on corneal allograft rejection in a high -risk corneal allograft transplantation model. Methods High-risk corneal beds were created via placement of intrastromal sutures in the corneas of BALB/c mice for 2 weeks. Allogeneic corneal transplantation was performed by transplanting corneas of C57BL/6 mice onto BALB/c hosts. RvE1 or normal saline (control) was subconjunctivally injected. Allograft survival was observed by slit lamp biomicroscope, and inflammatory cell infiltration was detected by hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry. The percentage of Th1, Th17, and Treg cells in draining lymph nodes (DLNs) were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The levels of Th1, Th2, and Th17-associated cytokines in the grafts were measured by cytometric bead array and real-time PCR. Results RvE1 treatment significantly improved allograft survival compared to the control group. After RvE1 treatment, the infiltration of neutrophils and CD4+ T (Th1/Th17) cells were decreased in corneal grafts, and the percentage of Th1/Th17 cells in DLNs were reduced. In addition, RvE1 treatment significantly reduced the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the graft including IL-1α, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, and IL-22 as well as the protein level of the proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-2, TNF, IL-6, IFN-γ, and IL-17. However, RvE1 treatment did not alter the percentage of Treg cells in DLNs and the expression of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10. Conclusions RvE1 treatment improves allogeneic corneal graft survival in a high-risk corneal transplantation model via inhibiting the Th1/Th17-related inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingqing Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Yizhou Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Chongqing Eye Institute, Chongqing, China
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27
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Li M, Mittal SK, Foulsham W, Amouzegar A, Sahu SK, Chauhan SK. Mast cells contribute to the induction of ocular mucosal alloimmunity. Am J Transplant 2019; 19:662-673. [PMID: 30129280 PMCID: PMC7941346 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Beyond their historical role as the effector cells in allergic disorders, mast cells have been implicated in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. Possessing considerable functional plasticity, mast cells are abundant at mucosal surfaces, where the host and external environments interface. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of mast cells to allograft rejection at the ocular surface. Using a well-characterized murine model of corneal transplantation, we report that mast cells promote allosensitization. Our data show mast cell frequencies and activation are increased following transplantation. We demonstrate that mast cell inhibition (a) limits the infiltration of inflammatory cells and APC maturation at the graft site; (b) reduces allosensitization and the generation of Th1 cells in draining lymphoid tissues; (c) decreases graft infiltration of alloimmune-inflammatory cells; and (d) prolongs allograft survival. Our data demonstrate a novel function of mast cells in promoting allosensitization at the ocular surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingshun Li
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China
| | - Sharad K. Mittal
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Foulsham
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Afsaneh Amouzegar
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Srikant K. Sahu
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sunil K. Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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28
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Hou Y, Le VNH, Tóth G, Siebelmann S, Horstmann J, Gabriel T, Bock F, Cursiefen C. UV light crosslinking regresses mature corneal blood and lymphatic vessels and promotes subsequent high-risk corneal transplant survival. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:2873-2884. [PMID: 29673063 PMCID: PMC6282984 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Immunologic graft rejection is the main complication after corneal transplant into pathologically prevascularized so-called high-risk eyes. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether ultraviolet (UV) light crosslinking can regress pathologic corneal blood and lymphatic vessels and thereby improve subsequent graft survival. Using the murine model of suture-induced corneal neovascularization, we found that corneal crosslinking with UVA light and riboflavin regressed both preexisting blood and lymphatic vessels significantly via induction of apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells. In addition, macrophages and CD45+ cell counts were significantly reduced. Consistently, corneal crosslinking reduced keratocyte density and corneal thickness without affecting corneal nonvascular endothelial cells, iris, and lens depending on the crosslinking duration. Furthermore, using the murine model of corneal transplant, long-term graft survival was significantly promoted (P < .05) and CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ T regulatory cells were upregulated (P < .01) in high-risk eyes preoperatively treated with crosslinking. Our results suggest UV light crosslinking as a novel method to regress both pathologic corneal blood and lymphatic vessels and to reduce CD45+ inflammatory cells. Furthermore, this study demonstrates for the first time that preoperative corneal crosslinking in prevascularized high-risk eyes can significantly improve subsequent graft survival and may become a promising novel therapy in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Hou
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Viet Nhat Hung Le
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany,Department of OphthalmologyHue College of Medicine and PharmacyHue UniversityHueVietnam
| | - Gábor Tóth
- Department of OphthalmologySemmelweis UniversityBudapestHungary
| | | | - Jens Horstmann
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany,Excellence Cluster: Cellular Stress Responses in Aging‐associated DiseasesCECADUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Tim Gabriel
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC)University of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of CologneCologneGermany,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC)University of CologneCologneGermany
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29
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Satitpitakul V, Sun Z, Suri K, Amouzegar A, Katikireddy KR, Jurkunas UV, Kheirkhah A, Dana R. Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Promotes Corneal Allograft Survival. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:2016-2024. [PMID: 30097165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most prevalent form of tissue transplantation. The success of corneal transplantation mainly relies on the integrity of corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs), which maintain graft transparency. CEnC density decreases significantly after corneal transplantation even in the absence of graft rejection. To date, different strategies have been used to enhance CEnC survival. The neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) improves CEnC integrity during donor cornea tissue storage and protects CEnCs against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. However, little is known about the effect of exogenous administration of VIP on corneal transplant outcomes. We found that VIP significantly accelerates endothelial wound closure and suppresses interferon-γ- and tumor necrosis factor-α-induced CEnC apoptosis in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, we found that intracameral administration of VIP to mice undergoing syngeneic corneal transplantation with endothelial injury increases CEnC density and decreases graft opacity scores. Finally, using a mouse model of allogeneic corneal transplantation, we found for the first time that treatment with VIP significantly suppresses posttransplantation CEnC loss and improves corneal allograft survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vannarut Satitpitakul
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Zhongmou Sun
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kunal Suri
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Afsaneh Amouzegar
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kishore R Katikireddy
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ula V Jurkunas
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ahmad Kheirkhah
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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30
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Robinson KA, Orent W, Madsen JC, Benichou G. Maintaining T cell tolerance of alloantigens: Lessons from animal studies. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:1843-1856. [PMID: 29939471 PMCID: PMC6352985 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Achieving host immune tolerance of allogeneic transplants represents the ultimate challenge in clinical transplantation. It has become clear that different cells and mechanisms participate in acquisition versus maintenance of allograft tolerance. Indeed, manipulations which prevent tolerance induction often fail to abrogate tolerance once it has been established. Hence, elucidation of the immunological mechanisms underlying maintenance of T cell tolerance to alloantigens is essential for the development of novel interventions that preserve a robust and long lasting state of allograft tolerance that relies on T cell deletion in addition to intra-graft suppression of inflammatory immune responses. In this review, we discuss some essential elements of the mechanisms involved in the maintenance of naturally occurring or experimentally induced allograft tolerance, including the newly described role of antigen cross-dressing mediated by extracellular vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kortney A. Robinson
- Center for Transplant Sciences, Massachusetts General
Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - William Orent
- Center for Transplant Sciences, Massachusetts General
Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Joren C. Madsen
- Center for Transplant Sciences, Massachusetts General
Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery,
Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Gilles Benichou
- Center for Transplant Sciences, Massachusetts General
Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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31
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Yu T, Forrester JV, Graham GJ, Kuffova L. The atypical chemokine receptor-2 does not alter corneal graft survival but regulates early stage of corneal graft-induced lymphangiogenesis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2018; 256:1875-1882. [PMID: 30054731 PMCID: PMC6153595 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-018-4070-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To re-evaluate the role of the atypical chemokine receptor-2 (ACKR2) in corneal graft rejection and investigate the effect of ACKR2 on inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis using murine orthotopic corneal transplantation. Methods Corneal grafts were performed and evaluated in the settings of syngeneic, allogeneic and single antigen (HY-antigen) disparity pairings. Corneal vessels were quantified in whole mounts from WT, ACKR2−/− and F4/80−/−ACKR2−/− mice that received syngeneic or allogeneic grafts using anti-CD31 and anti-Lyve-1 antibodies. Results Syngeneic corneal grafts in WT and ACKR2−/− mice were 100% accepted. Fully histo-incompatible allogeneic grafts were rapidly rejected (100%) with similar tempo in both WT and ACKR2−/− hosts. Around 50% of single-antigen (HY) disparity grafts rejected at a slow but similar tempo (60 days) in WT and ACKR2−/− mice. Prior to grafting, F4/80−/−ACKR2−/− mice had lower baseline levels of limbal blood and lymphatic vessels compared to ACKR2−/− mice. Syngeneic grafts, but not allogeneic grafts, in ACKR2−/− and F4/80−/−ACKR2−/− mice induced higher levels of lymphatic sprouting and infiltration of Lyve-1+ cells during the early (3d) post-graft (pg) stage but lymphatic density was similar to WT grafted mice by 7d pg. Conclusions Our results indicate that the chemokine scavenger receptor, ACKR2, has no role to play in the survival of allogeneic grafts. A minor role in regulation of lymphangiogenesis in the early stage of wound healing in syngeneic grafts is suggested, but this effect is probably masked by the more pronounced lymphangiogenic inflammatory response in allogeneic grafts. No additional effect was observed with the deletion of the resident macrophage gene, F4/80.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Yu
- Division of Applied Medicine, Section of Immunity, Infection and Inflammation (Ocular Immunology), Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - J V Forrester
- Division of Applied Medicine, Section of Immunity, Infection and Inflammation (Ocular Immunology), Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
- Ocular Immunology Program, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Nedlands, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Gerard J Graham
- Chemokine Research Group, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TT, UK
| | - Lucia Kuffova
- Division of Applied Medicine, Section of Immunity, Infection and Inflammation (Ocular Immunology), Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
- NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK.
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Immune Privilege and Eye-Derived T-Regulatory Cells. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:1679197. [PMID: 29888291 PMCID: PMC5985108 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1679197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain cellular components of the eye, such as neural retina, are unable to regenerate and replicate after destructive inflammation. Ocular immune privilege provides the eye with immune protection against intraocular inflammation in order to minimize the risk to vision integrity. The eye and immune system use strategies to maintain the ocular immune privilege by regulating the innate and adaptive immune response, which includes immunological ignorance, peripheral tolerance to eye-derived antigens, and intraocular immunosuppressive microenvironment. In this review, we summarize current knowledge regarding the molecular mechanism responsible for the development and maintenance of ocular immune privilege via regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are generated by the anterior chamber-associated immune deviation (ACAID), and ocular resident cells including corneal endothelial (CE) cells, ocular pigment epithelial (PE) cells, and aqueous humor. Furthermore, we examined the therapeutic potential of Tregs generated by RPE cells that express transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-2 alpha (CTLA-2α), and retinoic acid for autoimmune uveoretinitis and evaluated a new strategy using human RPE-induced Tregs for clinical application in inflammatory ocular disease. We believe that a better understanding of the ocular immune privilege associated with Tregs might offer a new approach with regard to therapeutic interventions for ocular autoimmunity.
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33
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Hua J, Inomata T, Chen Y, Foulsham W, Stevenson W, Shiang T, Bluestone JA, Dana R. Pathological conversion of regulatory T cells is associated with loss of allotolerance. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7059. [PMID: 29728574 PMCID: PMC5935752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25384-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in immune tolerance. The plasticity and functional adaptability of Tregs in an inflammatory microenvironment has been demonstrated in autoimmunity. Here, using a double transgenic mouse model that permits Foxp3 lineage tracing, we investigated the phenotypic plasticity of Foxp3+ Tregs in a well-characterized murine model of corneal transplantation. In order to subvert the normal immune privilege of the cornea and foster an inflammatory milieu, host mice were exposed to desiccating stress prior to transplantation. Treg frequencies and function were decreased following desiccating stress, and this corresponded to decreased graft survival. A fraction of Tregs converted to IL-17+ or IFNγ+ 'exFoxp3' T cells that were phenotypically indistinguishable from effector Th17 or Th1 cells, respectively. We investigated how Foxp3 expression is modulated in different Treg subsets, demonstrating that neuropilin-1- peripherally-derived Tregs are particularly susceptible to conversion to IL-17+/IFNγ+ exFoxp3 cells in response to cues from their microenvironment. Finally, we show that IL-6 and IL-23 are implicated in the conversion of Tregs to exFoxp3 cells. This report demonstrates that the pathological conversion of Tregs contributes to the loss of corneal immune privilege.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hua
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Takenori Inomata
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yihe Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Foulsham
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Stevenson
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tina Shiang
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bluestone
- Diabetes Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Fine Needle-Diathermy Regresses Pathological Corneal (Lymph)Angiogenesis and Promotes High-Risk Corneal Transplant Survival. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5707. [PMID: 29632336 PMCID: PMC5890271 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-24037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathological corneal hem- and lymphangiogenesis are prime risk factors for corneal graft rejection. Fine needle-diathermy (FND) is an option to regress corneal blood vessels; however, whether this treatment besides clinically visible blood vessels also affects invisible lymphatic vessels is so far unknown. Here we test the hypothesis that FND destroys not only blood but also lymphatic vessels, thereby promotes corneal high-risk graft survival. The effect of FND was studied in vivo using BALB/c mice and the model of suture-induced corneal neovascularization. Mice were divided into three groups: FND, ANTI (anti-inflammatory therapy) and NON (control). Five, 7, 10 and 20 days after cauterization, corneas were harvested and stained with LYVE-1, CD31 to quantify (lymph)angiogenesis. The long-term survival of allografts was compared between the three groups. FND caused significant regression of both blood and lymphatic vessels compared to the control group at all time points (p < 0.05) with the most obvious effect at day 7 (p < 0.01). Graft survival was significantly prolonged when transplants were placed into the FND pretreated group (p < 0.0001). The effect of the anti-inflammatory therapy alone was less effective compared to FND (p < 0.05). This novel lymphangioregressive effect of FND can be used clinically to precondition high-risk recipients to promote graft survival.
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Eaton JS, Miller PE, Bentley E, Thomasy SM, Murphy CJ. Slit Lamp-Based Ocular Scoring Systems in Toxicology and Drug Development: A Literature Survey. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2017; 33:707-717. [DOI: 10.1089/jop.2017.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Seth Eaton
- Ocular Services On Demand (OSOD), LLC, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Surgical & Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California–Davis, Davis, California
| | - Paul E. Miller
- Ocular Services On Demand (OSOD), LLC, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ellison Bentley
- Ocular Services On Demand (OSOD), LLC, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Sara M. Thomasy
- Ocular Services On Demand (OSOD), LLC, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Surgical & Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California–Davis, Davis, California
| | - Christopher J. Murphy
- Ocular Services On Demand (OSOD), LLC, Madison, Wisconsin
- Department of Surgical & Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California–Davis, Davis, California
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California–Davis, Sacramento, California
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Cho YK, Shin EY, Uehara H, Ambati B. Effect of itraconazole on the cornea in a murine suture model and penetrating keratoplasty model. Int J Ophthalmol 2017; 10:1647-1654. [PMID: 29181306 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2017.11.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the anti-(lymph)angiogenic and/or anti-inflammatory effect of itraconazole in a corneal suture model and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) model. METHODS Graft survival, corneal neovascularization, and corneal lymphangiogenesis were compared among itraconazole, amphotericin B, dexamethasone, phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and surgery-only groups following subconjunctival injection in mice that underwent PK and corneal suture. Immunohistochemical staining and analysis were performed in each group. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to quantify the expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF-C, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3. RESULTS In the suture model, the itraconazole group showed less angiogenesis, less lymphangiogenesis, and less inflammatory infiltration than the PBS group (all P<0.05). The itraconazole group showed reduced expression of VEGF-A, VEGFR-2, TNF-alpha, IL-6 than the PBS group (all P<0.05). In PK model, the two-month graft survival rate was 28.57% in itraconazole group, 62.50% in dexamethasone group, 12.50% in PBS group, 0 in amphotericin B group and 0 in surgery-only group. Graft survival in the itraconazole group was higher than that in the amphotericin, PBS and surgery-only group (P=0.057, 0.096, 0.012, respectively). The itraconazole group showed less total angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis than PBS group (all P<0.05). CONCLUSION Itraconazole decrease neovascularization, lymphangiogenesis, and inflammation in both a corneal suture model and PK model. Itraconazole has anti-(lymph)-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects in addition to its intrinsic antifungal effect and is therefore an alternative treatment option in cases where steroids cannot be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Kyung Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, St.Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, 93 Ji-Dong, Paldal-Gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 16247, Korea
| | - Eun Young Shin
- Research Institute of Medical Science, St.Vincent's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea, 93 Ji-Dong, Paldal-Gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 16247, Korea
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA
| | - Balamurali Ambati
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA
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Abstract
The eye has become a useful site for the investigation and understanding of local and systemic immune responses. The ease of access and transparency of the cornea permits direct visualization of ocular structures, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels, allowing for the tracking of normal and pathological biological processes in real time. As a window to the immune system, we have used the eye to dissect the mechanisms of corneal inflammatory reactions that include innate and adaptive immune responses. We have identified that the ocular microenvironment regulates these immune responses by recruiting different populations of inflammatory cells to the cornea through local production of selected chemokines. Moreover, crosstalk between T cells and macrophages is a common and crucial step in the development of ocular immune responses to corneal alloantigens. This review summarizes the data generated by our group using intravital fluorescent confocal microscopy to capture the tempo, magnitude, and function of innate and adaptive corneal immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor L Perez
- *the Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute; and †the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
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Pastak M, Kleff V, Saban DR, Czugala M, Steuhl KP, Ergün S, Singer BB, Fuchsluger TA. Gene Therapy for Modulation of T-Cell-Mediated Immune Response Provoked by Corneal Transplantation. Hum Gene Ther 2017; 29:467-479. [PMID: 28990426 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty) is the most common type of tissue replacement in the world. The increased rate of graft rejection after keratoplasty is a central problem for repeated transplantations and in inflamed host corneas. It has been shown that apoptosis of grafted epithelium has a role in corneal allograft rejection. This study focused on the T-cell response triggered in BALB/c mice after allogeneic corneal transplantation with and without anti-apoptotic p35-transduced epithelium. To restrict p35 expression to the epithelial cells, modified allogeneic composite grafts were created. As a result, it was found that the proportion of alloreactive CD4+ T cells in postoperatively removed cervical lymph nodes was reduced in the p35-transduced group compared to the allogeneic control group. Diminished priming of the CD4+ T cells was supported by significantly decreased proliferation and lower interferon gamma secretion when compared to allogeneic engraftments. The reduced priming of CD4+ lymphocytes is the first confirmation of the functionality of p35 in the epithelium of corneal grafts to alter the development of the recipient's immune response. Thus, modification of allosensibilization seems to be a promising tool for reducing graft-mediated immune response following corneal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Pastak
- 1 Institute of Anatomy, University of Duisburg-Essen Faculty of Medicine , Essen, Germany
- 2 Eye Clinic of Tartu University Hospital , Tartu, Estonia
| | - Veronika Kleff
- 1 Institute of Anatomy, University of Duisburg-Essen Faculty of Medicine , Essen, Germany
| | | | - Marta Czugala
- 4 Department of Ophthalmology, Erlangen University Hospital , Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klaus-Peter Steuhl
- 5 Department of Ophthalmology, Essen University Hospital , Essen, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- 6 Institute of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University , Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard B Singer
- 1 Institute of Anatomy, University of Duisburg-Essen Faculty of Medicine , Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas A Fuchsluger
- 4 Department of Ophthalmology, Erlangen University Hospital , Erlangen, Germany
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Cho YK, Shin EY, Uehara H, Ambati BK. Effect of sorafenib in a murine high risk penetrating keratoplasty model. Int J Ophthalmol 2017; 10:834-839. [PMID: 28730071 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2017.06.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of sorafenib in murine high risk keratoplasty model. METHODS Graft survival, corneal neovascularization, and corneal lymphangiogenesis were compared among the sorafenib, dexamethasone, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) groups following subconjunctival injection in mice that underwent high risk penetrating keratoplasty (HRPK). Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify the expression of inflammatory cytokines and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF-C, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-2, VEGFR-3. RESULTS The two-month graft survival rate for HRPK was 42.86% in sorafenib group, 37.50% in dexamethasone group, 0 in DMSO group, and 0 in PBS group. Sorafenib significantly increased graft survival compared to the DMSO and PBS group (P<0.05). The sorafenib didn't show significant effect in decreasing neovascularization compared with dexamethsone, DMSO, and PBS group. The sorafenib showed less total lymphangiogenesis than the dexamethasone, DMSO, and PBS group (P=0.011, P<0.001, P<0.001, respectively). The sorafenib group showed reduced expression of VEGF-C, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3 compared with DMSO group and PBS group (all P<0.05). The sorafenib group didn't show difference in the expression of VEGF-A compared with DMSO, neither with PBS. The sorafenib group showed reduced expression of VEGFR-3 compared with dexamethasone (P=0.051). CONCLUSION The subconjunctivally administered sorafenib shows significant anti-lymphangiogenic effect, resulting in increased transplant survival in a murine high risk keratoplasty model. We suggest that a close linkage between decreased VEGF-C/VEGFR-2 and -3 signaling and increased corneal graft survival by sorafenib seems to exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Kyung Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, St.Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 16247, Korea
| | - Eun Young Shin
- Research Institute of Medical Science, St.Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, the Catholic University of Korea, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 16247, Korea
| | - Hironori Uehara
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah, School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA
| | - Balamurali K Ambati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah, School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal neovascularization increases the risk of T cell-mediated allograft rejection. Here, we investigate whether T cells promote angiogenesis in transplantation. METHODS Conventional effector T cells were collected from draining lymph nodes of allogeneic or syngeneic corneal transplanted BALB/c mice. T cells were either cocultured with vascular endothelial cells (VECs) to assess VEC proliferation or used in a mixed lymphocyte reaction assay. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, -C, and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGF-R2) in VECs was assessed by real-time PCR. VEGF-A protein expression was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Flow cytometry was used to analyze VEGF-R2 expression in corneal CD31 cells, and VEGF-A and IFNγ expression in corneal CD4 T cells. RESULTS Allogeneic T cells from high-risk (HR) grafted mice induced more VEC proliferation than those from syngeneic transplant recipients (P = 0.03). Vascular endothelial growth factor-A mRNA and protein expression were higher in T cells from draining lymph nodes (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively) and cornea (protein; P = 0.04) of HR compared with low-risk (LR) grafted hosts. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A, VEGF-C, and VEGF-R2 mRNA expression were increased in VECs when cocultured with T cells from HR transplants compared with LR transplants and naive mice. In addition, IFNγ blockade in T cell/VEC coculture increased VEC proliferation and VEGF-A protein expression, whereas blocking VEGF-A significantly reduced VEC proliferation (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Allogeneic T cells from corneal transplant hosts promote VEC proliferation, probably via VEGF-A signaling, whereas IFNγ shows an antiangiogenic effect. Our data suggest that T cells are critical mediators of angiogenesis in transplantation.
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Tahvildari M, Emami-Naeini P, Omoto M, Mashaghi A, Chauhan SK, Dana R. Treatment of donor corneal tissue with immunomodulatory cytokines: a novel strategy to promote graft survival in high-risk corneal transplantation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:971. [PMID: 28428556 PMCID: PMC5430534 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01065-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) play an important role in transplant rejection and tolerance. In high-risk corneal transplantation, where the graft bed is inflamed and vascularized, immature APCs in the donor corneal stroma quickly mature and migrate to lymphoid tissues to sensitize host T cells. In this study, using a mouse model of corneal transplantation, we investigated whether enrichment of tolerogenic APCs (tolAPCs) in donor corneas can enhance graft survival in corneal allograft recipients with inflamed graft beds. Treatment of donor corneas with interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) altered the phenotype and function of tissue-residing APCs. Transplantation of these tolAPC-enriched corneas decreased frequencies of interferon gamma (IFNγ)+ effector T cells (Teffs), as well as allosensitization in the hosts, diminished graft infiltration of CD45+ and CD4+ cells, and significantly improved corneal allograft survival compared to saline-injected controls. These data provide a novel approach for tolAPC-based immunotherapy in transplantation by direct cytokine conditioning of the donor tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Tahvildari
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Parisa Emami-Naeini
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Masahiro Omoto
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alireza Mashaghi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sunil K Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Hayashi T, Usui T, Yamagami S. Suppression of Allograft Rejection with Soluble VEGF Receptor 2 Chimeric Protein in a Mouse Model of Corneal Transplantation. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2017; 239:81-8. [PMID: 27212075 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.239.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
When a transparent cornea becomes opaque due to infectious diseases, trauma, or ophthalmic surgery, the impaired cornea is replaced with a donor cornea to improve visual function. In this corneal transplantation, the graft survival rate is comparatively high, partly because of lacking vascular and lymphatic vessel in cornea. However, the transplanted corneas sometimes become opaque if allograft rejection occurs. Suppression of allograft rejection is critical for favorable outcomes of corneal transplantation. The essential effects of endogenous monomeric soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) 1 and 2 have been reported in corneal angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. This study investigated the effects of dimeric soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera protein on corneal allograft rejection for future clinical application. Allogeneic full-thickness corneal transplantation was performed in C57BL/6 to BALB/c mice. The recipients were treated by intrastromal injection of soluble VEGFR1/Fc chimera (sR1/Fc group), soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera (sR2/Fc group), or human IgG1/Fc protein (IgG/Fc group) at 0, 7, and 14 days after surgery. Both hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were significantly suppressed in the corneas of the sR2/Fc group compared with the IgG/Fc group. All grafts failed due to corneal wound rupture in the sR1/Fc group. In the sR2/Fc group, respective donor-derived MHC class II(+)/CD11c(+) cells and CD11b-positive macrophage infiltration were reduced in the DLNs and the corneas showing a negative delayed-type hypersensitivity, compared with the IgG/Fc group. Our findings demonstrate that soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera protein efficiently suppresses corneal allo-rejection, while reducing hemangiogenesis and lymhangiogenesis, and immune-competent cell-trafficking and may be a powerful tool for corneal allograft survival.
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INOMATA TAKENORI. A New Immunotherapy Using Regulatory T-Cells for High-Risk Corneal Transplantation. JUNTENDO MEDICAL JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.14789/jmj.63.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- TAKENORI INOMATA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine
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Inomata T, Hua J, Di Zazzo A, Dana R. Impaired Function of Peripherally Induced Regulatory T Cells in Hosts at High Risk of Graft Rejection. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39924. [PMID: 28008995 PMCID: PMC5180229 DOI: 10.1038/srep39924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial for allograft survival. Tregs can be divided into thymus-derived natural Tregs (tTregs) and peripherally-derived induced Tregs (pTregs). Here, we determine whether the suppressive function of Treg subsets is hampered in hosts who are at high risk for rejecting their graft. To induce graft beds that promote high risk of transplant rejection, intrastromal corneal sutures were placed two weeks prior to the transplant procedure in mice. We demonstrate that in high-risk recipients the frequencies and function of pTregs (but not tTregs) are suppressed. Reduced function of pTregs correlated with decreased expression of CTLA-4, interleukin-10, and transforming growth factor-β. Adoptive transfer of pTregs from mice at low risk of subsequent graft rejection is able to rescue graft survival in recipients that are at high risk of rejecting their grafts. Our data suggest that impaired function of pTregs, but not tTregs, mediates the loss of immune tolerance and promotes allograft rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takenori Inomata
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jing Hua
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonio Di Zazzo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Reza Dana
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune rejection continues to threaten all tissue transplants. Here we sought to determine whether platelet (P)- and endothelial (E)-selectin mediate T cell recruitment in corneal transplantation and whether their blockade can reduce T cell graft infiltration and improve long-term corneal allograft survival. METHODS In a murine model of allogeneic corneal transplantation, we used PCR and immunohistochemistry to investigate expression of P- and E-selectin in rejected versus accepted allografts and lymph node flow cytometry to assess expression of selectin ligands by effector T cells. Using P- and E-selectin neutralizing antibodies, we evaluated the effect of blockade on CD4 T cell recruitment, as well as the effect of anti-E-selectin on long-term allograft survival. RESULTS The P- (93.3-fold, P < 0.05) and E-selectin (17.1-fold, P < 0.005) are upregulated in rejected versus accepted allogeneic transplants. Type 1 T helper cells from hosts with accepted and rejected grafts express high levels of P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 and glycosylated CD43. In vivo blockade of P (0.47 ± 0.03, P < 0.05) and E selectin (0.49 ± 0.1, P < 0.05) reduced the number of recruited T cells compared with IgG control (0.98 ± 0.1). Anti-E-selectin reduced the number of mature antigen-presenting cells trafficking to lymphoid tissue compared with control (6.96 ± 0.9 vs 12.67 ± 0.5, P < 0.05). Anti-E-selectin treatment delayed graft rejection and increased survival compared with control, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS In a model of corneal transplantation, P- and E-selectin mediate T cell recruitment to the graft, E-selectin mediates APC trafficking to lymphoid tissue, and blockade of E-selectin has a modest effect on improving long-term graft survival.
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Kim DW, Lee SH, Shin MJ, Kim K, Ku SK, Youn JK, Cho SB, Park JH, Lee CH, Son O, Sohn EJ, Cho SW, Park JH, Kim HA, Han KH, Park J, Eum WS, Choi SY. PEP-1-FK506BP inhibits alkali burn-induced corneal inflammation on the rat model of corneal alkali injury. BMB Rep 2016; 48:618-23. [PMID: 25817214 PMCID: PMC4911203 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2015.48.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
FK506 binding protein 12 (FK506BP) is a small peptide with a single FK506BP domain that is involved in suppression of immune response and reactive oxygen species. FK506BP has emerged as a potential drug target for several inflammatory diseases. Here, we examined the protective effects of directly applied cell permeable FK506BP (PEP-1-FK506BP) on corneal alkali burn injury (CAI). In the cornea, there was a significant decrease in the number of cells expressing pro-inflammation, apoptotic, and angiogenic factors such as TNF-α, COX-2, and VEGF. Both corneal opacity and corneal neovascularization (CNV) were significantly decreased in the PEP-1-FK506BP treated group. Our results showed that PEP-1-FK506BP can significantly inhibit alkali burn-induced corneal inflammation in rats, possibly by accelerating corneal wound healing and by reducing the production of angiogenic factors and inflammatory cytokines. These results suggest that PEP-1-FK506BP may be a potential therapeutic agent for CAI. [BMB Reports 2015; 48(11): 618-623]
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae Won Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Research Institute of Oral Sciences, College of Dentistry, Gangnung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea
| | - Sung Ho Lee
- R&D Center, Lumieye Genetics Co., Ltd. Seoul 06198, Korea
| | - Min Jea Shin
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Kibom Kim
- R&D Center, Lumieye Genetics Co., Ltd. Seoul 06198, Korea
| | - Sae Kwang Ku
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan 38610, Korea
| | - Jong Kyu Youn
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Su Bin Cho
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Jung Hwan Park
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Chi Hern Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Ora Son
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Eun Jeong Sohn
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Sung-Woo Cho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Jong Hoon Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Hyun Ah Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Pyongchon 14068, Korea
| | - Kyu Hyung Han
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Jinseu Park
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Won Sik Eum
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
| | - Soo Young Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science and Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hallym University, Chunchon 24252, Korea
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Hua J, Stevenson W, Dohlman TH, Inomata T, Tahvildari M, Calcagno N, Pirmadjid N, Sadrai Z, Chauhan SK, Dana R. Graft Site Microenvironment Determines Dendritic Cell Trafficking Through the CCR7-CCL19/21 Axis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2016; 57:1457-67. [PMID: 27031839 PMCID: PMC4819620 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-17551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The graft site microenvironment has a profound effect on alloimmunity and graft survival. We aimed to study the kinetics and phenotype of trafficking antigen-presenting cells (APC) to the draining lymph nodes (DLNs) in a mouse model of corneal transplantation, and to evaluate the homing mechanisms through which graft site inflammation controls APC trafficking. METHODS Allogeneic donor corneas were transplanted onto inflamed or quiescent graft beds. Host- (YAe+) and donor (CD45.1+ or eGFP+)-derived APCs were analyzed by flow cytometry. Protein and mRNA expression of the CC chemokine receptor (CCR)7 ligands CCL19 and CCL21 were assessed using ELISA and Real-Time qPCR, respectively. Transwell migration assay was performed to assess the effect of DLNs isolated from hosts with inflamed graft beds on mature bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). RESULTS We found that inflamed graft sites greatly promote the trafficking of both recipient- and graft-derived APCs, in particular mature CCR7+ CD11c+ dendritic cells (DC). CCL19 and CCL21 were expressed at significantly higher levels in the DLNs of recipients with inflamed graft beds. The supernatant of DLNs from recipients with inflamed graft beds induced a marked increase in mature DC migration compared with supernatant from recipients with quiescent graft beds in a transwell assay. This effect was abolished by neutralizing CCL19 or CCL21. These data suggest that graft site inflammation increases the expression of CCR7 ligands in the DLNs, which promote mature DC homing and allorejection. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the graft site microenvironment plays a critical role in alloimmunity by determining DC trafficking through the CCR7-CCL19/21 axis.
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In Vivo Expansion of Regulatory T Cells by Low-Dose Interleukin-2 Treatment Increases Allograft Survival in Corneal Transplantation. Transplantation 2016; 100:525-32. [PMID: 26881788 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000001044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal allograft survival dramatically decreases in hosts with inflamed or vascularized recipient beds. We have previously shown that in rejected corneal allografts regulatory T cells (Treg) demonstrate diminished Foxp3 expression and immunoregulatory function. Treatment with low doses of IL-2 selectively expands Treg and has been proposed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In this study, we investigated the effect of low-dose IL-2 administration on Treg function and corneal allograft survival. METHODS Allogeneic corneal transplantation was performed on inflamed host beds. Low-dose systemic IL-2 was administered starting 3 days before grafting until 6 weeks after transplantation. Frequencies of Treg and their immunosuppressive function and antigen specificity were assessed using flow cytometry, in vitro proliferation assays, and adoptive transfer experiments. Frequencies of effector T cells (Teff) and graft infiltrating immune cells were measured at 2 weeks posttransplantation. Long-term allograft survival was evaluated for up to 9 weeks using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. RESULTS Treatment with low-dose IL-2 significantly increased frequencies of CD4CD25Foxp3 Treg and their immunosuppressive function. It also suppressed alloimmune response as shown by the decreased CD4 IFNγ T cell frequencies and graft infiltration of CD45 and CD4 cells. Clinical evaluation of the grafts showed significant improvement in long-term corneal allograft survival in the IL-2 treated group compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to report that treatment with low-dose IL-2 increases survival of corneal allografts. We propose that IL-2-mediated Treg expansion can be an effective tool to prevent alloimmunity and to improve long-term allograft survival in transplantation.
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Lee SH, Kim KW, Joo K, Kim JC. Angiogenin ameliorates corneal opacity and neovascularization via regulating immune response in corneal fibroblasts. BMC Ophthalmol 2016; 16:57. [PMID: 27356868 PMCID: PMC4926301 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-016-0235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiogenin (ANG), a component of tears, is involved in the innate immune system and is related with inflammatory disease. We investigated whether ANG has an immune modulatory function in human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs). Methods HCFs were cultured from excised corneal tissues. The gene or protein expression levels of interleukin (IL)-1beta (β), IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, complements, toll-like receptor (TLR)4, myeloid differentiation primary response gene (MYD)88, TANK-binding kinase (TBK)1, IkappaB kinase-epsilon (IKK-ε) and nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) were analyzed with or without ANG treatment in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)- or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory HCFs by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Inflammatory cytokine profiles with or without ANG were evaluated through immunodot blot analysis in inflammatory HCFs. Corneal neovascularization and opacity in a rat model of corneal alkali burn were evaluated after application of ANG eye drops. Results ANG decreased the mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α receptor (TNFR)1, 2, TLR4, MYD88, and complement components except for C1r and C1s and elevated the mRNA expression of IL-4 and IL-10. Increased signal intensity of IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 and MCP-2 induced by TNF-α or LPS was weakened by ANG treatment. ANG reduced the protein levels of IKK-ε by either TNF-α and LPS, and decreased TBK1 production induced by TNF-α, but not induced by LPS. The expression of NF-κB in the nuclei was decreased after ANG treatment. ANG application lowered corneal neovascularization and opacity in rats compared to controls. Conclusion These results demonstrate that ANG reduces the inflammatory response induced by TNF-α or LPS in HCFs through common suppression of IKK-ε-mediated activation of NF-κB. This may support the targeting of immune-mediated corneal inflammation by using ANG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hoon Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, 224-1, Heukseok-dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 156-755, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Woo Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, 224-1, Heukseok-dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 156-755, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangsic Joo
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, 224-1, Heukseok-dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 156-755, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Chan Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, 224-1, Heukseok-dong, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 156-755, Republic of Korea.
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Yang J, Feng S, Yi G, Wu W, Yi R, Lu X, Xu W, Qiu H. Inhibition of RelA expression via RNA interference induces immune tolerance in a rat keratoplasty model. Mol Immunol 2016; 73:88-97. [PMID: 27062711 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2016.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jize Yang
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Songfu Feng
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Guoguo Yi
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Ruiwen Yi
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Xiaohe Lu
- Department of Ophtalmology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China.
| | - Wanfu Xu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Haijiang Qiu
- Department of Ophtalmology, Guangzhou first people's Hospital, Guangzhou 510180, China
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