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Gupta S, Lytvynchuk L, Ardan T, Studenovska H, Sharma R, Faura G, Eide L, Shanker Verma R, Znaor L, Erceg S, Stieger K, Motlik J, Petrovski G, Bharti K. Progress in Stem Cells-Based Replacement Therapy for Retinal Pigment Epithelium: In Vitro Differentiation to In Vivo Delivery. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:536-552. [PMID: 37459045 PMCID: PMC10427969 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a critical cell monolayer forming the blood-retina-barrier (BRB) and a permeable bridge between the choriocapillaris and the retina. RPE is also crucial in maintaining photoreceptor function and for completing the visual cycle. Loss of the RPE is associated with the development of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To treat diseases like AMD, pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE (pRPE) has been recently explored extensively as a regenerative module. pRPE like other ectodermal tissues requires specific lineage differentiation and long-term in vitro culturing for maturation. Therefore, understanding the differentiation process of RPE could be useful for stem cell-based RPE derivation. Developing pRPE-based transplants and delivering them into the subretinal space is another aspect that has garnered interest in the last decade. In this review, we discuss the basic strategies currently employed for stem cell-based RPE derivation, their delivery, and recent clinical studies related to pRPE transplantation in patients. We have also discussed a few limitations with in vitro RPE culture and potential solutions to overcome such problems which can be helpful in developing functional RPE tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Gupta
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lyubomyr Lytvynchuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Karl Landsteiner Institute for Retinal Research and Imaging, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Studenovska
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioanalogous Systems, Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Georgina Faura
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Eide
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rama Shanker Verma
- Stem Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences. Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ljubo Znaor
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Research Center “Principe Felipe,” Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Knut Stieger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jan Motlik
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Cell Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Goran Petrovski
- Center for Eye Research and Innovative Diagnostics, Department of Ophthalmology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Split School of Medicine and University Hospital Centre, Split, Croatia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Karamali F, Behtaj S, Babaei-Abraki S, Hadady H, Atefi A, Savoj S, Soroushzadeh S, Najafian S, Nasr Esfahani MH, Klassen H. Potential therapeutic strategies for photoreceptor degeneration: the path to restore vision. J Transl Med 2022; 20:572. [PMID: 36476500 PMCID: PMC9727916 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors (PRs), as the most abundant and light-sensing cells of the neuroretina, are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. PR degeneration, including morphological and functional impairment of these cells, causes significant diminution of the retina's ability to detect light, with consequent loss of vision. Recent findings in ocular regenerative medicine have opened promising avenues to apply neuroprotective therapy, gene therapy, cell replacement therapy, and visual prostheses to the challenge of restoring vision. However, successful visual restoration in the clinical setting requires application of these therapeutic approaches at the appropriate stage of the retinal degeneration. In this review, firstly, we discuss the mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying cell death. Subsequently, innovations, recent developments, and promising treatments based on the stage of disorder progression are further explored. Then, the challenges to be addressed before implementation of these therapies in clinical practice are considered. Finally, potential solutions to overcome the current limitations of this growing research area are suggested. Overall, the majority of current treatment modalities are still at an early stage of development and require extensive additional studies, both pre-clinical and clinical, before full restoration of visual function in PR degeneration diseases can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Karamali
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Behtaj
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia ,grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222 Australia
| | - Shahnaz Babaei-Abraki
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanieh Hadady
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Atefeh Atefi
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soraya Savoj
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sareh Soroushzadeh
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samaneh Najafian
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- grid.417689.5Department of Animal Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Henry Klassen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Irvine, CA USA
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3
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Seraly M, Madow B, Farkas MH. Clinical Considerations for RPE Cell Transplantation. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-022-00287-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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4
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Hage R, Vignal-Clermont C. Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: Review of Treatment and Management. Front Neurol 2021; 12:651639. [PMID: 34122299 PMCID: PMC8187781 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.651639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited mitochondrial disease that specifically targets the retinal ganglion cells by reducing their ability to produce enough energy to sustain. The mutations of the mitochondrial DNA that cause LHON are silent until an unknown trigger causes bilateral central visual scotoma. After the onset of loss of vision, most patients experience progressive worsening within the following months. Few of them regain some vision after a period of ~1 year. Management of LHON patients has been focused on understanding the triggers of the disease and its pathophysiology to prevent the onset of visual loss in a carrier. Medical treatment is recommended once visual loss has started in at least one eye. Research evaluated drugs that are thought to be able to restore the mitochondrial electron transport chain of the retinal ganglion cells. Significant advances were made in evaluating free radical cell scavengers and gene therapy as potential treatments for LHON. Although encouraging the results of clinical trial have been mixed in stopping the worsening of visual loss. In patients with chronic disease of over 1 year, efficient treatment that restores vision is yet to be discovered. In this review, we summarize the management strategies for patients with LHON before, during, and after the loss of vision, explain the rationale and effectiveness of previous and current treatments, and report findings about emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabih Hage
- Neuro-ophthalmology Department, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France
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5
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Hereditary Optic Neuropathies: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based 2D/3D Approaches. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12010112. [PMID: 33477675 PMCID: PMC7831942 DOI: 10.3390/genes12010112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited optic neuropathies share visual impairment due to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) as the hallmark of the disease. This group of genetic disorders are caused by mutations in nuclear genes or in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). An impaired mitochondrial function is the underlying mechanism of these diseases. Currently, optic neuropathies lack an effective treatment, and the implementation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology would entail a huge step forward. The generation of iPSC-derived RGCs would allow faithfully modeling these disorders, and these RGCs would represent an appealing platform for drug screening as well, paving the way for a proper therapy. Here, we review the ongoing two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) approaches based on iPSCs and their applications, taking into account the more innovative technologies, which include tissue engineering or microfluidics.
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Microfluidic and Microscale Assays to Examine Regenerative Strategies in the Neuro Retina. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11121089. [PMID: 33316971 PMCID: PMC7763644 DOI: 10.3390/mi11121089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bioengineering systems have transformed scientific knowledge of cellular behaviors in the nervous system (NS) and pioneered innovative, regenerative therapies to treat adult neural disorders. Microscale systems with characteristic lengths of single to hundreds of microns have examined the development and specialized behaviors of numerous neuromuscular and neurosensory components of the NS. The visual system is comprised of the eye sensory organ and its connecting pathways to the visual cortex. Significant vision loss arises from dysfunction in the retina, the photosensitive tissue at the eye posterior that achieves phototransduction of light to form images in the brain. Retinal regenerative medicine has embraced microfluidic technologies to manipulate stem-like cells for transplantation therapies, where de/differentiated cells are introduced within adult tissue to replace dysfunctional or damaged neurons. Microfluidic systems coupled with stem cell biology and biomaterials have produced exciting advances to restore vision. The current article reviews contemporary microfluidic technologies and microfluidics-enhanced bioassays, developed to interrogate cellular responses to adult retinal cues. The focus is on applications of microfluidics and microscale assays within mammalian sensory retina, or neuro retina, comprised of five types of retinal neurons (photoreceptors, horizontal, bipolar, amacrine, retinal ganglion) and one neuroglia (Müller), but excludes the non-sensory, retinal pigmented epithelium.
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Zhang CJ, Ma Y, Jin ZB. The road to restore vision with photoreceptor regeneration. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108283. [PMID: 33010290 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuroretinal diseases are the predominant cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, mainly due to photoreceptor loss. Currently, there are no radical treatments to fully reverse the degeneration or even stop the disease progression. Thus, it is urgent to develop new biological therapeutics for these diseases on the clinical side. Stem cell-based treatments have become a promising therapeutic for neuroretinal diseases through the replacement of damaged cells with photoreceptors and some allied cells. To date, considerable efforts have been made to regenerate the diseased retina based on stem cell technology. In this review, we overview the current status of stem cell-based treatments for photoreceptor regeneration, including the major cell sources derived from different stem cells in pre-clinical or clinical trial stages. Additionally, we discuss herein the major challenges ahead for and potential new strategy toward photoreceptor regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Jun Zhang
- Laboratory for Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Ya Ma
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Chemla Y, Avraham ES, Markus A, Teblum E, Slotky A, Kostikov Y, Farah N, Telkhozhayeva M, Shoval I, Nessim GD, Mandel Y. Carbon nanostructures as a scaffold for human embryonic stem cell differentiation toward photoreceptor precursors. NANOSCALE 2020; 12:18918-18930. [PMID: 32910131 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr02256j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanomaterials have been introduced as a scaffold for various biological applications due to their unique physical and electrical properties. Here we studied carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) as scaffold materials for the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) towards photoreceptor precursor cells (PRPs). We report on their cytoxicity, their effect on cell morphology, cell-surface interface and the differentiation process. To this end, hESCs were differentiated into PRPs on carbon nanofibers (CNFs), long horizontal CNTs (LHCNTs), vertically aligned CNTs (VACNTs) or glass (control) surfaces. The differentiated cells were investigated by immunohistochemistry, fluorescence imaging and electron microscopy. Our results revealed that the investigated nanomaterials were not cytotoxic to the cells during the differentiation process. The surface interface effect on the cells was apparent, affecting cell directionality, migration and morphology. Interestingly, cell fate was not dependent on the substrate type, as inferred from the similar dynamics of the loss of pluripotency and the comparable expression levels of the photoreceptor marker Crx for all investigated substrates. These results are important for better understanding the effect of nanomaterial surface interaction with differentiating neural cells in general, and for future use of these materials as scaffolds for differentiating photoreceptors for vision restoration in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoav Chemla
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Optometry and Vision Science, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel.
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9
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West EL, Ribeiro J, Ali RR. Development of Stem Cell Therapies for Retinal Degeneration. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2020; 12:cshperspect.a035683. [PMID: 31818854 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a035683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Degenerative retinal disease is the major cause of sight loss in the developed world and currently there is a lack of effective treatments. As the loss of vision is directly the result of the loss of retinal cells, effective cell replacement through stem-cell-based therapies may have the potential to treat a great number of retinal diseases whatever their underlying etiology. The eye is an ideal organ to develop cell therapies as it is immune privileged, and modern surgical techniques enable precise delivery of cells to the retina. Furthermore, a range of noninvasive diagnostic tests and high-resolution imaging techniques facilitate the evaluation of any therapeutic intervention. In this review, we evaluate the progress to date of current cell therapy strategies for retinal repair, focusing on transplantation of pluripotent stem-cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L West
- Division of Molecular Therapy, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Joana Ribeiro
- Division of Molecular Therapy, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- Division of Molecular Therapy, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, United Kingdom.,Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA
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10
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Behtaj S, Öchsner A, Anissimov YG, Rybachuk M. Retinal Tissue Bioengineering, Materials and Methods for the Treatment of Glaucoma. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2020; 17:253-269. [PMID: 32390117 PMCID: PMC7260329 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-020-00254-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glaucoma, a characteristic type of optic nerve degeneration in the posterior pole of the eye, is a common cause of irreversible vision loss and the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. As an optic neuropathy, glaucoma is identified by increasing degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), with consequential vision loss. Current treatments only postpone the development of retinal degeneration, and there are as yet no treatments available for this disability. Recent studies have shown that replacing lost or damaged RGCs with healthy RGCs or RGC precursors, supported by appropriately designed bio-material scaffolds, could facilitate the development and enhancement of connections to ganglion cells and optic nerve axons. The consequence may be an improved retinal regeneration. This technique could also offer the possibility for retinal regeneration in treating other forms of optic nerve ailments through RGC replacement. METHODS In this brief review, we describe the innovations and recent developments in retinal regenerative medicine such as retinal organoids and gene therapy which are specific to glaucoma treatment and focus on the selection of appropriate bio-engineering principles, biomaterials and cell therapies that are presently employed in this growing research area. RESULTS Identification of optimal sources of cells, improving cell survival, functional integration upon transplantation, and developing techniques to deliver cells into the retinal space without provoking immune responses are the main challenges in retinal cell replacement therapies. CONCLUSION The restoration of visual function in glaucoma patients by the RGC replacement therapies requires appropriate protocols and biotechnology methods. Tissue-engineered scaffolds, the generation of retinal organoids, and gene therapy may help to overcome some of the challenges in the generation of clinically safe RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Behtaj
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Engineering Drive, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, West Creek Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell Science Research Centre, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Andreas Öchsner
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Esslingen University of Applied Sciences, Kanalstrasse 33, 73728, Esslingen, Germany
| | - Yuri G Anissimov
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, West Creek Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
- School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Parklands Drive, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, 119146, Russia
| | - Maksym Rybachuk
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, West Creek Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
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12
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Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a novel surgical approach to provide consistent delivery of cell suspension into the subretinal space without cell leakage into the vitreous. METHODS Cell viability was assessed following mock injections to determine the optimal size cannula for delivery of the cells. A pars plana without vitrectomy approach was used to create a subretinal bleb with balanced salt solution using a 41-gauge cannula. GFP-labeled retinal pigment epithelium cells were injected through transretinal (n = 8) and transscleral (n = 16) injection approaches. Optical coherence tomography, fundus photography and autofluorescence, and histological analysis were used to evaluate surgical success. RESULTS The 30-gauge cannula yielded the highest recovery of cells with highest viability. The transretinal approach consistently resulted in transplanted cells in the vitreous, with some cells coming to rest on the inner limiting membrane. Conversely, the transscleral approach resulted in transplantation of cells into the subretinal space in 100% of cases. Histological analysis confirmed these results. CONCLUSION We have developed a novel surgical approach that resulted in encapsulation of transplanted cells into the subretinal space with a 100% success rate. This approach will provide a useful tool for further cell transplantation study and may provide an approach for clinical application of delivering cells to the subretinal space.
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13
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Thakur A, Mishra S, Pena J, Zhou J, Redenti S, Majeska R, Vazquez M. Collective adhesion and displacement of retinal progenitor cells upon extracellular matrix substrates of transplantable biomaterials. J Tissue Eng 2018; 9:2041731417751286. [PMID: 29344334 PMCID: PMC5764132 DOI: 10.1177/2041731417751286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Strategies to replace retinal photoreceptors lost to damage or disease rely upon the migration of replacement cells transplanted into sub-retinal spaces. A significant obstacle to the advancement of cell transplantation for retinal repair is the limited migration of transplanted cells into host retina. In this work, we examine the adhesion and displacement responses of retinal progenitor cells on extracellular matrix substrates found in retina as well as widely used in the design and preparation of transplantable scaffolds. The data illustrate that retinal progenitor cells exhibit unique adhesive and displacement dynamics in response to poly-l-lysine, fibronectin, laminin, hyaluronic acid, and Matrigel. These findings suggest that transplantable biomaterials can be designed to improve cell integration by incorporating extracellular matrix substrates that affect the migratory behaviors of replacement cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankush Thakur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shawn Mishra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Juan Pena
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Biology, Lehman College, Bronx, NY, USA.,Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen Redenti
- Department of Biology, Lehman College, Bronx, NY, USA.,Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.,Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Majeska
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA.,Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
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McGill TJ, Wilson DJ, Stoddard J, Renner LM, Neuringer M. Cell Transplantation for Retinal Degeneration: Transition from Rodent to Nonhuman Primate Models. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1074:641-647. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75402-4_78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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15
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Burnight ER, Gupta M, Wiley LA, Anfinson KR, Tran A, Triboulet R, Hoffmann JM, Klaahsen DL, Andorf JL, Jiao C, Sohn EH, Adur MK, Ross JW, Mullins RF, Daley GQ, Schlaeger TM, Stone EM, Tucker BA. Using CRISPR-Cas9 to Generate Gene-Corrected Autologous iPSCs for the Treatment of Inherited Retinal Degeneration. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1999-2013. [PMID: 28619647 PMCID: PMC5589061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) hold great promise for autologous cell replacement. However, for many inherited diseases, treatment will likely require genetic repair pre-transplantation. Genome editing technologies are useful for this application. The purpose of this study was to develop CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing strategies to target and correct the three most common types of disease-causing variants in patient-derived iPSCs: (1) exonic, (2) deep intronic, and (3) dominant gain of function. We developed a homology-directed repair strategy targeting a homozygous Alu insertion in exon 9 of male germ cell-associated kinase (MAK) and demonstrated restoration of the retinal transcript and protein in patient cells. We generated a CRISPR-Cas9-mediated non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) approach to excise a major contributor to Leber congenital amaurosis, the IVS26 cryptic-splice mutation in CEP290, and demonstrated correction of the transcript and protein in patient iPSCs. Lastly, we designed allele-specific CRISPR guides that selectively target the mutant Pro23His rhodopsin (RHO) allele, which, following delivery to both patient iPSCs in vitro and pig retina in vivo, created a frameshift and premature stop that would prevent transcription of the disease-causing variant. The strategies developed in this study will prove useful for correcting a wide range of genetic variants in genes that cause inherited retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin R Burnight
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Manav Gupta
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 01451, USA
| | - Luke A Wiley
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Kristin R Anfinson
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Audrey Tran
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 01451, USA
| | - Robinson Triboulet
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 01451, USA
| | - Jeremy M Hoffmann
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Darcey L Klaahsen
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Jeaneen L Andorf
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Chunhua Jiao
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Elliott H Sohn
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Malavika K Adur
- Department of Animal Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Jason W Ross
- Department of Animal Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - George Q Daley
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 01451, USA
| | - Thorsten M Schlaeger
- Stem Cell Program and Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 01451, USA
| | - Edwin M Stone
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Stephen A. Wynn Institute for Vision Research and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA.
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16
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Garcia MB, Jha AK, Healy KE, Wildsoet CF. A Bioengineering Approach to Myopia Control Tested in a Guinea Pig Model. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 58:1875-1886. [PMID: 28358959 PMCID: PMC5374882 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the biocompatibility of an injectable hydrogel and its ability to control myopia progression in guinea pigs. Methods The study used a hydrogel synthesized from acrylated hyaluronic acid with a conjugated cell-binding peptide and enzymatically degradable crosslinker. Seven-day-old guinea pigs were first form deprived (FD) with diffusers for 1 week. One group was kept as an FD-only control; two groups received a sub-Tenon's capsule injection of either hydrogel or buffer (sham surgery) at the posterior pole of the eye. Form deprivation treatments were then continued for 3 additional weeks. Treatment effects were evaluated in terms of ocular axial length and refractive error. Safety was evaluated via intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, flash electroretinograms (ERG), and histology. Results Both hydrogel and sham surgery groups showed significantly reduced axial elongation and myopia progression compared to the FD-only group. For axial lengths, net changes in interocular difference (treated minus control) were 0.04 ± 0.06, 0.02 ± 0.09, and 0.24 ± 0.08 mm for hydrogel, sham, and FD-only groups, respectively (P = 0.0006). Intraocular pressures, visual acuities, and ERGs of treated eyes were not significantly different from contralateral controls. Extensive cell migration into the implants was evident. Both surgery groups showed noticeable Tenon's capsule thickening. Conclusions Sub-Tenon's capsule injections of both hydrogel and buffer inhibited myopia progression, with no adverse effects on ocular health. The latter unexpected effect warrants further investigation as a potential novel myopia control therapy. That the hydrogel implant supported significant cell infiltration offers further proof of its biocompatibility, with potential application as a tool for drug and cell delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana B Garcia
- Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States
| | - Amit K Jha
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States 3Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States
| | - Kevin E Healy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States 3Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States
| | - Christine F Wildsoet
- Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States 2Department of Bioengineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States 3Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States
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17
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Li K, Zhong X, Yang S, Luo Z, Li K, Liu Y, Cai S, Gu H, Lu S, Zhang H, Wei Y, Zhuang J, Zhuo Y, Fan Z, Ge J. HiPSC-derived retinal ganglion cells grow dendritic arbors and functional axons on a tissue-engineered scaffold. Acta Biomater 2017; 54:117-127. [PMID: 28216299 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Numerous therapeutic procedures in modern medical research rely on the use of tissue engineering for the treatment of retinal diseases. However, the cell source and the transplantation method are still a limitation. Previously, it was reported that a self-organizing three-dimensional neural retina can be induced from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). In this study, we disclose the generation of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from the neural retina and their seeding on a biodegradable poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffold to create an engineered RGC-scaffold biomaterial. Moreover, we explored the dendritic arbor, branching point, functional axon and action potential of the biomaterial. Finally, the cell-scaffold was transplanted into the intraocular environment of rabbits and rhesus monkeys. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE As a part of the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) shows little regenerative capacity. With the use of medical biomaterial for cells seeding and deliver, a new domain is now emerging that uses tissue engineering therapy for retinal disease. However, previous studies utilized RGCs from rodent model, which has limitations for human disease treatment. In the present study, we generated RGCs from hiPSCs-3D neural retina and then seeded these RGCs on PLGA scaffold to create an engineered RGC-scaffold biomaterial. Moreover, we assessed the transplantation method for biomaterial in vivo. Our study provides a technique to produce the engineered human RGC-scaffold biomaterial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiufeng Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sijing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ziming Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Song Cai
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huaiyu Gu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shoutao Lu
- Bai Duoan Medical Equipment Company, Qihe, Shandong, China
| | - Haijun Zhang
- Bai Duoan Medical Equipment Company, Qihe, Shandong, China
| | - Yantao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhigang Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yet-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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18
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Agrahari V, Agrahari V, Mandal A, Pal D, Mitra AK. How are we improving the delivery to back of the eye? Advances and challenges of novel therapeutic approaches. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 14:1145-1162. [DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2017.1272569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vibhuti Agrahari
- School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Vivek Agrahari
- School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Abhirup Mandal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Dhananjay Pal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Ashim K. Mitra
- School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
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19
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The following review will provide an update on stem cell therapy with a focus on completed and ongoing human trials. RECENT FINDINGS Significant progress has brought stem cell therapy from proof-of-concept animal models to human clinical trials. Although in its infancy, valuable safety and efficacy data are starting to emerge from trials looking at cell therapies for age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt's macular dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa, and ischemic retinopathies. SUMMARY Although clinical trials continue to enroll and evaluate stem cell therapy in patients with retinal diseases, preliminary results using both cellular replacement and trophic models have provided initial support for this exciting therapy. Results of these pivotal trials will form a key foundation for moving forward toward the ultimate goal of preventing blinding disease.
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20
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Burns AJ, Goldstein AM, Newgreen DF, Stamp L, Schäfer KH, Metzger M, Hotta R, Young HM, Andrews PW, Thapar N, Belkind-Gerson J, Bondurand N, Bornstein JC, Chan WY, Cheah K, Gershon MD, Heuckeroth RO, Hofstra RMW, Just L, Kapur RP, King SK, McCann CJ, Nagy N, Ngan E, Obermayr F, Pachnis V, Pasricha PJ, Sham MH, Tam P, Vanden Berghe P. White paper on guidelines concerning enteric nervous system stem cell therapy for enteric neuropathies. Dev Biol 2016; 417:229-51. [PMID: 27059883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, there has been increasing focus on the development of novel stem cell based therapies for the treatment of disorders and diseases affecting the enteric nervous system (ENS) of the gastrointestinal tract (so-called enteric neuropathies). Here, the idea is that ENS progenitor/stem cells could be transplanted into the gut wall to replace the damaged or absent neurons and glia of the ENS. This White Paper sets out experts' views on the commonly used methods and approaches to identify, isolate, purify, expand and optimize ENS stem cells, transplant them into the bowel, and assess transplant success, including restoration of gut function. We also highlight obstacles that must be overcome in order to progress from successful preclinical studies in animal models to ENS stem cell therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J Burns
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK; Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Allan M Goldstein
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Donald F Newgreen
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lincon Stamp
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Karl-Herbert Schäfer
- University of Applied Sciences, Kaiserlautern, Germany; Clinic of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Metzger
- Fraunhofer-Institute Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB Translational Centre - Würzburg branch and University Hospital Würzburg - Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ryo Hotta
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heather M Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Peter W Andrews
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nikhil Thapar
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Jaime Belkind-Gerson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Nadege Bondurand
- INSERM U955, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, F-94000 Créteil, France; Université Paris-Est, UPEC, F-94000 Créteil, France
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Wood Yee Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kathryn Cheah
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Michael D Gershon
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York 10032, USA
| | - Robert O Heuckeroth
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Abramson Research Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Robert M W Hofstra
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK; Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lothar Just
- Institute of Clinical Anatomy and Cell Analysis, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Raj P Kapur
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sebastian K King
- Department of Paediatric and Neonatal Surgery, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Conor J McCann
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Nandor Nagy
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Elly Ngan
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Florian Obermayr
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Children's Hospital Tübingen, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | - Mai Har Sham
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Paul Tam
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Pieter Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory for Enteric NeuroScience (LENS), TARGID, University of Leuven, Belgium
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21
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Di Foggia V, Makwana P, Ali RR, Sowden JC. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Therapies for Degenerative Disease of the Outer Retina: Disease Modeling and Cell Replacement. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2016; 32:240-52. [PMID: 27027805 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2015.0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies are being explored as potential treatments for retinal disease. How to replace neurons in a degenerated retina presents a continued challenge for the regenerative medicine field that, if achieved, could restore sight. The major issues are: (i) the source and availability of donor cells for transplantation; (ii) the differentiation of stem cells into the required retinal cells; and (iii) the delivery, integration, functionality, and survival of new cells in the host neural network. This review considers the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), currently under intense investigation, as a platform for cell transplantation therapy. Moreover, patient-specific iPSC are being developed for autologous cell transplantation and as a tool for modeling specific retinal diseases, testing gene therapies, and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Foggia
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
| | - Priyanka Makwana
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- 2 UCL Institute of Ophthalmology , London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane C Sowden
- 1 UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London , London, United Kingdom
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22
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Kundu J, Michaelson A, Talbot K, Baranov P, Young MJ, Carrier RL. Decellularized retinal matrix: Natural platforms for human retinal progenitor cell culture. Acta Biomater 2016; 31:61-70. [PMID: 26621699 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2015.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Tissue decellularization strategies have enabled engineering of scaffolds that preserve native extracellular matrix (ECM) structure and composition. In this study, we developed decellularized retina (decell-retina) thin films. We hypothesized that these films, mimicking the retina niche, would promote human retinal progenitor cell (hRPC) attachment, proliferation and differentiation. Retinas isolated from bovine eyes were decellularized using 1% w/v sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and pepsin digested. The resulting decell-retina was biochemically assayed for composition and cast dried to develop thin films. Attachment, viability, morphology, proliferation and gene expression of hRPC cultured on the films were studied in vitro. Biochemical analyses of decell-retina compared to native retina indicated the bulk of DNA (94%) was removed, while the majority of sulfated GAGs (55%), collagen (83%), hyaluronic acid (87%), and key growth factors were retained. The decell-retina films supported hRPC attachment and growth, with cell number increasing 1.5-fold over a week. RT-PCR analysis revealed hRPC expression of rhodopsin, rod outer membrane, neural retina-specific leucine zipper neural and cone-rod homeobox gene on decell-retina films, indicating photoreceptor development. In conclusion, novel decell-retina films show promise as potential substrates for culture and/or transplantation of retinal progenitor cells to treat retinal degenerative disorders. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE In this study, we report the development of a novel biomaterial, based on decellularized retina (decell-retina) that mimics the retina niche and promotes human retinal progenitor cell (hRPC) attachment, proliferation and differentiation. We estimated, for the first time, the amounts of collagen I, GAGs and HA present in native retina, as well as the decell-retina. We demonstrated that retinas can be decellularized using ionic detergents and can be processed into mechanically stable thin films, which can act as substrates for culturing hRPCs. Rhodopsin, ROM1, NRL and CRX gene expression on the decell-retina films indicated photoreceptor development from RPCs. These results support the potential of decell-retina as a cell delivery platform to treat and manage retinal degenerative disease like AMD.
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23
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Zarbin M. Cell-Based Therapy for Degenerative Retinal Disease. Trends Mol Med 2016; 22:115-134. [PMID: 26791247 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2015.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors (PRs) have restored vision in preclinical models of human retinal degenerative disease. This review discusses characteristics of stem cell therapy in the eye and the challenges to clinical implementation that are being confronted today. Based on encouraging results from Phase I/II trials, the first Phase II clinical trials of stem cell-derived RPE transplantation are underway. PR transplant experiments have demonstrated restoration of visual function in preclinical models of retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration, but also indicate that no single approach is likely to succeed in overcoming PR loss in all cases. A greater understanding of the mechanisms controlling synapse formation as well as the immunoreactivity of transplanted retinal cells is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zarbin
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
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24
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Electrospun SF/PLCL nanofibrous membrane: a potential scaffold for retinal progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation. Sci Rep 2015; 5:14326. [PMID: 26395224 PMCID: PMC4585796 DOI: 10.1038/srep14326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biocompatible polymer scaffolds are promising as potential carriers for the delivery of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) in cell replacement therapy for the repair of damaged or diseased retinas. The primary goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of blended electrospun nanofibrous membranes of silk fibroin (SF) and poly(L-lactic acid-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL), a novel scaffold, on the biological behaviour of RPCs in vitro. To assess the cell-scaffold interaction, RPCs were cultured on SF/PLCL scaffolds for indicated durations. Our data revealed that all the SF/PLCL scaffolds were thoroughly cytocompatible, and the SF:PLCL (1:1) scaffolds yielded the best RPC growth. The in vitro proliferation assays showed that RPCs proliferated more quickly on the SF:PLCL (1:1) than on the other scaffolds and the control. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunocytochemistry analyses demonstrated that RPCs grown on the SF:PLCL (1:1) scaffolds preferentially differentiated toward retinal neurons, including, most interestingly, photoreceptors. In summary, we demonstrated that the SF:PLCL (1:1) scaffolds can not only markedly promote RPC proliferation with cytocompatibility for RPC growth but also robustly enhance RPCs’ differentiation toward specific retinal neurons of interest in vitro, suggesting that SF:PLCL (1:1) scaffolds may have potential applications in retinal cell replacement therapy in the future.
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25
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Xian B, Huang B. The immune response of stem cells in subretinal transplantation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:161. [PMID: 26364954 PMCID: PMC4568575 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0167-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation is a potential curative treatment for degenerative diseases of the retina. Among cell injection sites, the subretinal space (SRS) is particularly advantageous as it is maintained as an immune privileged site by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) layer. Thus, the success of subretinal transplantation depends on maintenance of RPE integrity. Moreover, both embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have negligible immunogenicity and in fact are immunosuppressive. Indeed, many studies have demonstrated that immunosuppressive drugs are not necessary for subretinal transplantation of stem cells if the blood-retinal barrier is not breached during surgery. The immunogenicity of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) appears more complex, and requires careful study before clinical application. Despite low rates of graft rejection in animal models, survival rates for ESCs, MSCs, and iPSCs in retina are generally poor, possibly due to resident microglia activated by cell transplantation. To improve graft survival in SRS transplantation, damage to the blood-retinal barrier must be minimized using appropriate surgical techniques. In addition, agents that inhibit microglial activation may be required. Finally, immunosuppressants may be required, at least temporarily, until the blood-retinal barrier heals. We review surgical methods and drug regimens to enhance the likelihood of graft survival after SRS transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikun Xian
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Bing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong Province, China.
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26
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Stem cell based therapies for age-related macular degeneration: The promises and the challenges. Prog Retin Eye Res 2015; 48:1-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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27
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Garcia JM, Mendonça L, Brant R, Abud M, Regatieri C, Diniz B. Stem cell therapy for retinal diseases. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:160-4. [PMID: 25621115 PMCID: PMC4300926 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i1.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we discuss about current knowledge about stem cell (SC) therapy in the treatment of retinal degeneration. Both human embryonic stem cell and induced pluripotent stem cell has been growth in culture for a long time, and started to be explored in the treatment of blinding conditions. The Food and Drug Administration, recently, has granted clinical trials using SC retinal therapy to treat complex disorders, as Stargardt's dystrophy, and patients with geographic atrophy, providing good outcomes. This study's intent is to overview the critical regeneration of the subretinal anatomy through retinal pigment epithelium transplantation, with the goal of reestablish important pathways from the retina to the occipital cortex of the brain, as well as the differentiation from pluripotent quiescent SC to adult retina, and its relationship with a primary retinal injury, different techniques of transplantation, management of immune rejection and tumorigenicity, its potential application in improving patients' vision, and, finally, approaching future directions and challenges for the treatment of several conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Mauricio Garcia
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Luisa Mendonça
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Brant
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Murilo Abud
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Caio Regatieri
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Bruno Diniz
- José Mauricio Garcia, Luisa Mendonça, Murilo Abud, Bruno Diniz, Department of Ophthalmology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
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