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Kalargyrou AA, Matsuyama A, Lanning EP, Khazim M, Guilfoyle S, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Pearson RA. A protocol for isolation and culturing of mouse primary postmitotic photoreceptors and isolation of extracellular vesicles. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102875. [PMID: 38386547 PMCID: PMC10901138 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.102875] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a protocol for isolating and culturing mouse photoreceptors in a minimal, chemically defined medium free from serum. We describe steps for retina dissection, enzymatic dissociation, photoreceptor enrichment, cell culture, extracellular vesicles (EVs) enrichment, and EV ultrastructural analysis. This protocol, which has been verified for cultured cells derived from multiple murine strains, allows for the study of several aspects of photoreceptor biology, including EV isolation and nanotube formation. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Kalargyrou et al. (2021).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini A Kalargyrou
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK.
| | - Ayako Matsuyama
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Emily P Lanning
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Mahmoud Khazim
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Siobhan Guilfoyle
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Alexander J Smith
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, 8th Floor Tower Wing, London SE1 9RT, UK.
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2
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Wong NK, Yip SP, Huang CL. Establishing Functional Retina in a Dish: Progress and Promises of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Retinal Neuron Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13652. [PMID: 37686457 PMCID: PMC10487913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713652] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The human eye plays a critical role in vision perception, but various retinal degenerative diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can lead to vision loss or blindness. Although progress has been made in understanding retinal development and in clinical research, current treatments remain inadequate for curing or reversing these degenerative conditions. Animal models have limited relevance to humans, and obtaining human eye tissue samples is challenging due to ethical and legal considerations. Consequently, researchers have turned to stem cell-based approaches, specifically induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), to generate distinct retinal cell populations and develop cell replacement therapies. iPSCs offer a novel platform for studying the key stages of human retinogenesis and disease-specific mechanisms. Stem cell technology has facilitated the production of diverse retinal cell types, including retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and photoreceptors, and the development of retinal organoids has emerged as a valuable in vitro tool for investigating retinal neuron differentiation and modeling retinal diseases. This review focuses on the protocols, culture conditions, and techniques employed in differentiating retinal neurons from iPSCs. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of molecular and functional validation of the differentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nonthaphat Kent Wong
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shea Ping Yip
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chien-Ling Huang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China;
- Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
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3
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Maidana DE, Gonzalez-Buendia L, Miller JW, Vavvas DG. RIPK necrotic cell death pathway in both donor photoreceptor and host immune cells synergize to affect photoreceptor graft survival. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22847. [PMID: 36862516 PMCID: PMC10590064 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201137r] [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: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Photoreceptor transplant has been put forward as a repair strategy to tackle degenerated retinas. Nonetheless, cell death and immune rejection seriously limit the success of this strategy, with only a small fraction of transplanted cells surviving. Improving the survival of transplanted cells is of critical importance. Recent evidence has identified receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) as a molecular trigger controlling necroptotic cell death and inflammation. However, its role in photoreceptor transplantation and regenerative medicine has not been studied. We hypothesized that modulation of RIPK3 to address both cell death and immunity could have advantageous effects on photoreceptor survival. In a model of inherited retinal degeneration, deletion of RIPK3 in donor photoreceptor precursors significantly increases the survival of transplanted cells. Simultaneous RIPK3 deletion in donor photoreceptors and recipients maximizes graft survival. Lastly, to discern the role of RIPK3 in the host immune response, bone marrow transplant experiments demonstrated that peripheral immune cell RIPK3 deficiency is protective for both donor and host photoreceptor survival. Interestingly, this finding is independent of photoreceptor transplantation, as the peripheral protective effect is also observed in an additional retinal detachment photoreceptor degeneration model. Altogether, these results indicate that immunomodulatory and neuroprotective strategies targeting the RIPK3 pathway can aid regenerative therapies of photoreceptor transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E. Maidana
- Retina Service, Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lucia Gonzalez-Buendia
- Retina Service, Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Joan W. Miller
- Retina Service, Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Demetrios G. Vavvas
- Retina Service, Angiogenesis Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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4
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Nawaz AA, Soteriou D, Xu CK, Goswami R, Herbig M, Guck J, Girardo S. Image-based cell sorting using focused travelling surface acoustic waves. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:372-387. [PMID: 36620943 PMCID: PMC9844123 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00636g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Sorting cells is an essential primary step in many biological and clinical applications such as high-throughput drug screening, cancer research and cell transplantation. Cell sorting based on their mechanical properties has long been considered as a promising label-free biomarker that could revolutionize the isolation of cells from heterogeneous populations. Recent advances in microfluidic image-based cell analysis combined with subsequent label-free sorting by on-chip actuators demonstrated the possibility of sorting cells based on their physical properties. However, the high purity of sorting is achieved at the expense of a sorting rate that lags behind the analysis throughput. Furthermore, stable and reliable system operation is an important feature in enabling the sorting of small cell fractions from a concentrated heterogeneous population. Here, we present a label-free cell sorting method, based on the use of focused travelling surface acoustic wave (FTSAW) in combination with real-time deformability cytometry (RT-DC). We demonstrate the flexibility and applicability of the method by sorting distinct blood cell types, cell lines and particles based on different physical parameters. Finally, we present a new strategy to sort cells based on their mechanical properties. Our system enables the sorting of up to 400 particles per s. Sorting is therefore possible at high cell concentrations (up to 36 million per ml) while retaining high purity (>92%) for cells with diverse sizes and mechanical properties moving in a highly viscous buffer. Sorting of small cell fraction from a heterogeneous population prepared by processing of small sample volume (10 μl) is also possible and here demonstrated by the 667-fold enrichment of white blood cells (WBCs) from raw diluted whole blood in a continuous 10-hour sorting experiment. The real-time analysis of multiple parameters together with the high sensitivity and high-throughput of our method thus enables new biological and therapeutic applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Ahsan Nawaz
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Despina Soteriou
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Catherine K Xu
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ruchi Goswami
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Maik Herbig
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jochen Guck
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Salvatore Girardo
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany.
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5
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Gene-independent therapeutic interventions to maintain and restore light sensitivity in degenerating photoreceptors. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 90:101065. [PMID: 35562270 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative retinal diseases are a prime cause of blindness in industrialized countries. In many cases, there are no therapeutic treatments, although they are essential to improve patients' quality of life. A set of disease-causing genes, which primarily affect photoreceptors, has already been identified and is of major interest for developing gene therapies. Nevertheless, depending on the nature and the state of the disease, gene-independent strategies are needed. Various strategies to halt disease progression or maintain function of the retina are under research. These therapeutic interventions include neuroprotection, direct reprogramming of affected photoreceptors, the application of non-coding RNAs, the generation of artificial photoreceptors by optogenetics and cell replacement strategies. During recent years, major breakthroughs have been made such as the first optogenetic application to a blind patient whose visual function partially recovered by targeting retinal ganglion cells. Also, RPE cell transplantation therapies are under clinical investigation and show great promise to improve visual function in blind patients. These cells are generated from human stem cells. Similar therapies for replacing photoreceptors are extensively tested in pre-clinical models. This marks just the start of promising new cures taking advantage of developments in the areas of genetic engineering, optogenetics, and stem-cell research. In this review, we present the recent therapeutic advances of gene-independent approaches that are currently under clinical evaluation. Our main focus is on photoreceptors as these sensory cells are highly vulnerable to degenerative diseases, and are crucial for light detection.
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6
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Guan Y, Wang Y, Zheng D, Xie B, Xu P, Gao G, Zhong X. Generation of an RCVRN-eGFP Reporter hiPSC Line by CRISPR/Cas9 to Monitor Photoreceptor Cell Development and Facilitate the Cell Enrichment for Transplantation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:870441. [PMID: 35573687 PMCID: PMC9096726 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.870441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based cell therapies are considered to be promising treatments for retinal disorders with dysfunction or death of photoreceptors. However, the enrichment of human photoreceptors suitable for transplantation has been highly challenging so far. This study aimed to generate a photoreceptor-specific reporter human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) line using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, which harbored an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) sequence at the endogenous locus of the pan photoreceptor marker recoverin (RCVRN). After confirmation of successful targeting and gene stability, three-dimensional retinal organoids were induced from this reporter line. The RCVRN-eGFP reporter faithfully replicated endogenous protein expression of recoverin and revealed the developmental characteristics of photoreceptors during retinal differentiation. The RCVRN-eGFP specifically and steadily labeled photoreceptor cells from photoreceptor precursors to mature rods and cones. Additionally, abundant eGFP-positive photoreceptors were enriched by fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and their transcriptome signatures were revealed by RNA sequencing and data analysis. Moreover, potential clusters of differentiation (CD) biomarkers were extracted for the enrichment of photoreceptors for clinical applications, such as CD133 for the positive selection of photoreceptors. Altogether, the RCVRN-eGFP reporter hiPSC line was successfully established and the first global expression database of recoverin-positive photoreceptors was constructed. These achievements will provide a powerful tool for dynamically monitoring photoreceptor cell development and purification of human photoreceptors, thus facilitating photoreceptor cell therapy for advanced retinal disorders.
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7
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Nagata K, Hishikawa D, Sagara H, Saito M, Watanabe S, Shimizu T, Shindou H. Lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 controls mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and survival of retinal photoreceptor cells. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101958. [PMID: 35452679 PMCID: PMC9136105 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their high energy demands and characteristic morphology, retinal photoreceptor cells require a specialized lipid metabolism for survival and function. Accordingly, dysregulation of lipid metabolism leads to the photoreceptor cell death and retinal degeneration. Mice bearing a frameshift mutation in the gene encoding lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 (Lpcat1), which produces saturated phosphatidylcholine (PC) composed of two saturated fatty acids, has been reported to cause spontaneous retinal degeneration in mice; however, the mechanism by which this mutation affects degeneration is unclear. In this study, we performed a detailed characterization of LPCAT1 in the retina and found that genetic deletion of Lpcat1 induces light-independent and photoreceptor-specific apoptosis in mice. Lipidomic analyses of the retina and isolated photoreceptor outer segment (OS) suggested that loss of Lpcat1 not only decreased saturated PC production but also affected membrane lipid composition, presumably by altering saturated fatty acyl-CoA availability. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Lpcat1 deletion led to increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels in photoreceptor cells, but not in other retinal cells, and did not affect the OS structure or trafficking of OS-localized proteins. These results suggest that the LPCAT1-dependent production of saturated PC plays critical roles in photoreceptor maturation. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of saturated fatty acid metabolism in photoreceptor cell degeneration-related retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuyuki Nagata
- Department of Lipid Signaling, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Hishikawa
- Department of Lipid Signaling, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sagara
- Medical Proteomics Laboratory, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masamichi Saito
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sumiko Watanabe
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Shimizu
- Department of Lipid Signaling, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideo Shindou
- Department of Lipid Signaling, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Lipid Science, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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8
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Nazlamova L, Cassidy EJ, Sowden JC, Lotery A, Lakowski J. Generation of a Cone Photoreceptor-specific GNGT2 Reporter Line in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells 2022; 40:190-203. [PMID: 35293574 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent reporter lines generated in human pluripotent stem cells are a highly useful tool to track, isolate, and analyze cell types and lineages in live cultures. Here, we generate the first human cone photoreceptor reporter cell line by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing of a human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line to tag both alleles of the Guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit gamma-T2 (GNGT2) gene with a mCherry reporter cassette. Three-dimensional optic vesicle-like structures were produced to verify reporter fidelity and track cones throughout their development in culture. The GNGT2-T2A-mCherry hESC line faithfully and robustly labels GNGT2-expressing cones throughout the entirety of their differentiation in vitro, recapitulating normal fetal expression of this gene. Our observations indicate that human cones undergo significant migratory activity during the course of differentiation in vitro. Consistent with this, our analysis of human fetal retinae from different stages of development finds positional differences of the cone population depending on their state of maturation. This novel reporter line will provide a useful tool for investigating human cone development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya Nazlamova
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Emma-Jane Cassidy
- Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, Salisbury District Hospital, Salisbury, UK
| | - Jane C Sowden
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Andrew Lotery
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jörn Lakowski
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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9
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Herbig M, Tessmer K, Nötzel M, Nawaz AA, Santos-Ferreira T, Borsch O, Gasparini SJ, Guck J, Ader M. Label-free imaging flow cytometry for analysis and sorting of enzymatically dissociated tissues. Sci Rep 2022; 12:963. [PMID: 35046492 PMCID: PMC8770577 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05007-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomedical research relies on identification and isolation of specific cell types using molecular biomarkers and sorting methods such as fluorescence or magnetic activated cell sorting. Labelling processes potentially alter the cells’ properties and should be avoided, especially when purifying cells for clinical applications. A promising alternative is the label-free identification of cells based on physical properties. Sorting real-time deformability cytometry (soRT-DC) is a microfluidic technique for label-free analysis and sorting of single cells. In soRT-FDC, bright-field images of cells are analyzed by a deep neural net (DNN) to obtain a sorting decision, but sorting was so far only demonstrated for blood cells which show clear morphological differences and are naturally in suspension. Most cells, however, grow in tissues, requiring dissociation before cell sorting which is associated with challenges including changes in morphology, or presence of aggregates. Here, we introduce methods to improve robustness of analysis and sorting of single cells from nervous tissue and provide DNNs which can distinguish visually similar cells. We employ the DNN for image-based sorting to enrich photoreceptor cells from dissociated retina for transplantation into the mouse eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maik Herbig
- Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Karen Tessmer
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Nötzel
- Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ahsan Ahmad Nawaz
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum Für Physik Und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tiago Santos-Ferreira
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Borsch
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sylvia J Gasparini
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jochen Guck
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light & Max-Planck-Zentrum Für Physik Und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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10
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Kalargyrou AA, Basche M, Hare A, West EL, Smith AJ, Ali RR, Pearson RA. Nanotube-like processes facilitate material transfer between photoreceptors. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e53732. [PMID: 34494703 PMCID: PMC8567251 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal communication is typically mediated via synapses and gap junctions. New forms of intercellular communication, including nanotubes (NTs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs), have been described for non-neuronal cells, but their role in neuronal communication is not known. Recently, transfer of cytoplasmic material between donor and host neurons ("material transfer") was shown to occur after photoreceptor transplantation. The cellular mechanism(s) underlying this surprising finding are unknown. Here, using transplantation, primary neuronal cultures and the generation of chimeric retinae, we show for the first time that mammalian photoreceptor neurons can form open-end NT-like processes. These processes permit the transfer of cytoplasmic and membrane-bound molecules in culture and after transplantation and can mediate gain-of-function in the acceptor cells. Rarely, organelles were also observed to transfer. Strikingly, use of chimeric retinae revealed that material transfer can occur between photoreceptors in the intact adult retina. Conversely, while photoreceptors are capable of releasing EVs, at least in culture, these are taken up by glia and not by retinal neurons. Our findings provide the first evidence of functional NT-like processes forming between sensory neurons in culture and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini A Kalargyrou
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Mark Basche
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Aura Hare
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Emma L West
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Alexander J Smith
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
| | - Robin R Ali
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
- Kellogg Eye CenterUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMIUSA
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- University College London Institute of OphthalmologyLondonUK
- Centre for Cell and Gene TherapyKing’s College LondonGuy’s HospitalLondonUK
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11
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Andreazzoli M, Barravecchia I, De Cesari C, Angeloni D, Demontis GC. Inducible Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model and Treat Inherited Degenerative Diseases of the Outer Retina: 3D-Organoids Limitations and Bioengineering Solutions. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092489. [PMID: 34572137 PMCID: PMC8471616 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerations (IRD) affecting either photoreceptors or pigment epithelial cells cause progressive visual loss and severe disability, up to complete blindness. Retinal organoids (ROs) technologies opened up the development of human inducible pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) for disease modeling and replacement therapies. However, hiPSC-derived ROs applications to IRD presently display limited maturation and functionality, with most photoreceptors lacking well-developed outer segments (OS) and light responsiveness comparable to their adult retinal counterparts. In this review, we address for the first time the microenvironment where OS mature, i.e., the subretinal space (SRS), and discuss SRS role in photoreceptors metabolic reprogramming required for OS generation. We also address bioengineering issues to improve culture systems proficiency to promote OS maturation in hiPSC-derived ROs. This issue is crucial, as satisfying the demanding metabolic needs of photoreceptors may unleash hiPSC-derived ROs full potential for disease modeling, drug development, and replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivana Barravecchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | | | - Debora Angeloni
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Gian Carlo Demontis
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (G.C.D.)
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12
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Ludwig AL, Gamm DM. Outer Retinal Cell Replacement: Putting the Pieces Together. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:15. [PMID: 34724034 PMCID: PMC8572485 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.10.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases (RDDs) affecting photoreceptors (PRs) are one of the most prevalent sources of incurable blindness worldwide. Due to a lack of endogenous repair mechanisms, functional cell replacement of PRs and/or retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells are among the most anticipated approaches for restoring vision in advanced RDD. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technologies have accelerated development of outer retinal cell therapies as they provide a theoretically unlimited source of donor cells. Human PSC-RPE replacement therapies have progressed rapidly, with several completed and ongoing clinical trials. Although potentially more promising, hPSC-PR replacement therapies are still in their infancy. A first-in-human trial of hPSC-derived neuroretinal transplantation has recently begun, but a number of questions regarding survival, reproducibility, functional integration, and mechanism of action remain. The discovery of biomaterial transfer between donor and PR cells has highlighted the need for rigorous safety and efficacy studies of PR replacement. In this review, we briefly discuss the history of neuroretinal and PR cell transplantation to identify remaining challenges and outline a stepwise approach to address specific pieces of the outer retinal cell replacement puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L. Ludwig
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David M. Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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13
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Pavlou M, Schön C, Occelli LM, Rossi A, Meumann N, Boyd RF, Bartoe JT, Siedlecki J, Gerhardt MJ, Babutzka S, Bogedein J, Wagner JE, Priglinger SG, Biel M, Petersen‐Jones SM, Büning H, Michalakis S. Novel AAV capsids for intravitreal gene therapy of photoreceptor disorders. EMBO Mol Med 2021; 13:e13392. [PMID: 33616280 PMCID: PMC8033523 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202013392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy using recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors to treat blinding retinal dystrophies has become clinical reality. Therapeutically impactful targeting of photoreceptors still relies on subretinal vector delivery, which detaches the retina and harbours substantial risks of collateral damage, often without achieving widespread photoreceptor transduction. Herein, we report the development of novel engineered rAAV vectors that enable efficient targeting of photoreceptors via less invasive intravitreal administration. A unique in vivo selection procedure was performed, where an AAV2-based peptide-display library was intravenously administered in mice, followed by isolation of vector DNA from target cells after only 24 h. This stringent selection yielded novel vectors, termed AAV2.GL and AAV2.NN, which mediate widespread and high-level retinal transduction after intravitreal injection in mice, dogs and non-human primates. Importantly, both vectors efficiently transduce photoreceptors in human retinal explant cultures. As proof-of-concept, intravitreal Cnga3 delivery using AAV2.GL lead to cone-specific expression of Cnga3 protein and rescued photopic cone responses in the Cnga3-/- mouse model of achromatopsia. These novel rAAV vectors expand the clinical applicability of gene therapy for blinding human retinal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pavlou
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Christian Schön
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Laurence M Occelli
- Department of Small Animal Clinical SciencesMichigan State UniversityEast LansingMIUSA
| | - Axel Rossi
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Nadja Meumann
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- REBIRTH Research Centre for Translational Regenerative MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Ryan F Boyd
- Ophthalmology ServicesCharles River LaboratoriesMattawanMIUSA
| | - Joshua T Bartoe
- Ophthalmology ServicesCharles River LaboratoriesMattawanMIUSA
| | - Jakob Siedlecki
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Sabrina Babutzka
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Jacqueline Bogedein
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Johanna E Wagner
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Martin Biel
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
| | | | - Hildegard Büning
- Laboratory for Infection Biology and Gene TransferInstitute of Experimental HaematologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- REBIRTH Research Centre for Translational Regenerative MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Department of OphthalmologyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
- Centre for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department of PharmacyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversityMunichGermany
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14
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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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15
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Hydrogel-mediated co-transplantation of retinal pigmented epithelium and photoreceptors restores vision in an animal model of advanced retinal degeneration. Biomaterials 2020; 257:120233. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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16
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Pan D, Xia XX, Zhou H, Jin SQ, Lu YY, Liu H, Gao ML, Jin ZB. COCO enhances the efficiency of photoreceptor precursor differentiation in early human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal organoids. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:366. [PMID: 32831148 PMCID: PMC7444242 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01883-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Significant progress has been made in cell replacement therapy for neural retinal diseases using retinal cells differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells. Low tumorigenicity and the ability to mature to form synaptic junctions make precursor cells a promising donor source. Here, we attempted to improve the yield of photoreceptor precursor cells in three-dimensional retinal organoids from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Methods A CRX-tdTomato-tagged hESC line was generated to track retinal precursors in 3D retinal organoids. COCO, a multifunctional antagonist of the Wnt, TGF-β, and BMP pathways, was employed to 3D organoid differentiation schemes for enhanced photoreceptor precursor cells. Organoid fluorescence intensity measurement was used to monitor retinalization tendency with the number of precursors further checked by flow cytometry. Signature gene expression during organoid differentiation were assessed by qPCR and immunocytochemistry after COCO supplementation. Results CRX-positive cells can be spatiotemporally tracked by tdTomato without affecting retinalization during retinal organoid differentiation. Fluorescence intensity of organoids, which turned out highly consistent with flow cytometry measurement, allowed us to determine the differentiation efficiency of precursors during organoid culturing directly. Using COCO as an auxiliary supplement, rather than alone, can yield an increased number of photoreceptor precursors in the early stage of organoid differentiation. Over a longer time-frame, photoreceptor precursors enhanced their fate of cones and decreased fate of rods after treatment with COCO. Conclusions Tracing with the CRX-reporter system showed that in retinal organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells, COCO increased the differentiation efficiency of photoreceptor precursors and cones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deng Pan
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Xi-Xi Xia
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Heng Zhou
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Si-Qian Jin
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yang-Yan Lu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Mei-Ling Gao
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Laboratory of Stem Cell & Retinal Regeneration, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Division of Ophthalmic Genetics, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China. .,Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing, 100730, China. .,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University & Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China. .,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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17
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Stone NE, Voigt AP, Cooke JA, Giacalone JC, Hanasoge S, Mullins RF, Tucker BA, Sulchek T. Label-free microfluidic enrichment of photoreceptor cells. Exp Eye Res 2020; 199:108166. [PMID: 32771499 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal degenerative disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome are characterized by progressive death of photoreceptor cells. To restore vision to patients blinded by these diseases, a stem cell-based photoreceptor cell replacement strategy will likely be required. Although retinal stem cell differentiation protocols suitable for generating photoreceptor cells exist, they often yield a rather heterogenous mixture of cell types. To enrich the donor cell population for one or a few cell types, scientists have traditionally relied upon the use of antibody-based selection approaches. However, these strategies are quite labor intensive and require animal derived reagents and equipment that are not well suited to current good manufacturing practices (cGMP). The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a microfluidic cell sorting device capable of exploiting the physical and mechanical differences between retinal cell types to enrich specific donor cell populations such as Retinal Pigment Epithelial (RPE) cells and photoreceptor cells. Using this device, we were able to separate a mixture of RPE and iPSC-derived photoreceptor precursor cell lines into two substantially enriched fractions. The enrichment factor of the RPE fraction was 2 and that of the photoreceptor precursor cell fraction was 2.7. Similarly, when human retina, obtained from 3 independent donors, was dissociated and passed through the sorting device, the heterogeneous mixture could be reliably sorted into RPE and photoreceptor cell rich fractions. In summary, microfluidic cell sorting is a promising approach for antibody free enrichment of retinal cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Stone
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Andrew P Voigt
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Jessica A Cooke
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Joseph C Giacalone
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Srinivas Hanasoge
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Robert F Mullins
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Budd A Tucker
- Institute for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Todd Sulchek
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
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18
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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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19
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Morizur L, Herardot E, Monville C, Ben M'Barek K. Human pluripotent stem cells: A toolbox to understand and treat retinal degeneration. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 107:103523. [PMID: 32634576 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) are retinal degenerative disorders that dramatically damage the retina. As there is no therapeutic option for the majority of patients, vision is progressively and irremediably lost. Owing to their unlimited renewal and potency to give rise to any cell type of the human adult body, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been extensively studied in recent years to develop more physiologically relevant in vitro cellular models. Such models open new perspectives to investigate the pathological molecular mechanisms of AMD and RP but also in drug screening. Moreover, proof-of-concept of hPSC-derived retinal cell therapy in animal models have led to first clinical trials. This review outlines the recent advances in the use of hPSCs in pathological modeling of retinal degeneration and their use in regenerative medicine. We also address the associated limitations and challenges that need to be overcome when using hPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Morizur
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université d'Evry, U861, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Centre d'Etude des Cellules Souches, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Elise Herardot
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université d'Evry, U861, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France
| | - Christelle Monville
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université d'Evry, U861, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.
| | - Karim Ben M'Barek
- INSERM U861, I-Stem, AFM, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Université d'Evry, U861, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France; Centre d'Etude des Cellules Souches, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France.
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20
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Toms D, Al-Ani A, Sunba S, Tong QYV, Workentine M, Ungrin M. Automated Hypothesis Generation to Identify Signals Relevant in the Development of Mammalian Cell and Tissue Bioprocesses, With Validation in a Retinal Culture System. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:534. [PMID: 32582664 PMCID: PMC7287043 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed an accessible software tool (receptoR) to predict potentially active signaling pathways in one or more cell type(s) of interest from publicly available transcriptome data. As proof-of-concept, we applied it to mouse photoreceptors, yielding the previously untested hypothesis that activin signaling pathways are active in these cells. Expression of the type 2 activin receptor (Acvr2a) was experimentally confirmed by both RT-qPCR and immunochemistry, and activation of this signaling pathway with recombinant activin A significantly enhanced the survival of magnetically sorted photoreceptors in culture. Taken together, we demonstrate that our approach can be easily used to mine publicly available transcriptome data and generate hypotheses around receptor expression that can be used to identify novel signaling pathways in specific cell types of interest. We anticipate that receptoR (available at https://www.ucalgary.ca/ungrinlab/receptoR) will enable more efficient use of limited research resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Toms
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Abdullah Al-Ani
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Leaders in Medicine Program, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Saud Sunba
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Qing Yun Victor Tong
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Matthew Workentine
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Mark Ungrin
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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21
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Barnea-Cramer AO, Singh M, Fischer D, De Silva S, McClements ME, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE. Repair of Retinal Degeneration following Ex Vivo Minicircle DNA Gene Therapy and Transplantation of Corrected Photoreceptor Progenitors. Mol Ther 2020; 28:830-844. [PMID: 32027843 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors describe retinal reconstruction and restoration of visual function in heritably blind mice missing the rhodopsin gene using a novel method of ex vivo gene therapy and cell transplantation. Photoreceptor precursors with the same chromosomal genetic mutation were treated ex vivo using minicircle DNA, a non-viral technique that does not present the packaging limitations of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. Following transplantation, genetically modified cells reconstructed a functional retina and supported vision in blind mice harboring the same founder gene mutation. Gene delivery by minicircles showed comparable long-term efficiency to AAV in delivering the missing gene, representing the first non-viral system for robust treatment of photoreceptors. This important proof-of-concept finding provides an innovative convergence of cell and gene therapies for the treatment of hereditary neurodegenerative disease and may be applied in future studies toward ex vivo correction of patient-specific cells to provide an autologous source of tissue to replace lost photoreceptors in inherited retinal blindness. This is the first report using minicircles in photoreceptor progenitors and the first to transplant corrected photoreceptor precursors to restore vision in blind animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mandeep Singh
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Dominik Fischer
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; University Eye Hospital and Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Samantha De Silva
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Alun R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.
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22
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Shimizu J, Suzuki T, Hirotsu C, Ueno H, Takada E, Arimitsu N, Ueda Y, Wakisaka S, Suzuki N. Interaction between SDF1 and CXCR4 Promotes Photoreceptor Differentiation via Upregulation of NFκB Pathway Signaling Activity in Pax6 Gene-Transfected Photoreceptor Precursors. Ophthalmic Res 2020; 63:392-403. [PMID: 31935734 DOI: 10.1159/000503929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CCL2 (also known as monocyte chemoattractant protein 1) and CX3CR1 (also known as Fractalkine receptor)-deficient mice have damaged photoreceptors. OBJECTIVES We examined the interaction of SDF1 and CXCR4 on the differentiation of retinal progenitors into rhodopsin-positive photoreceptors. METHODS Cloned retinal progenitors were obtained by Pax6 gene transfection of mouse iPS cells followed by serial dilution. Clones were selected by expression of nestin, Musashi1, Six3, and Chx10 mRNA. Cell surface protein expression was analyzed by flow cytometry. The levels of mRNA and intracellular protein were examined by real-time PCR and immunochemistry, respectively. Transient transfection experiments of retinal progenitors were conducted using a human rhodopsin promoter luciferase plasmid. RESULTS We selected 10 clones that expressed Six3, Chx10, Crx, Rx1, Nrl, CD73, and rhodopsin mRNA, which, except for rhodopsin, are photoreceptor precursor markers. Clones expressed both CD73 and CXCR4 on the cell surface and differentiated into rhodopsin-positive photoreceptors, which was reinforced by the addition of exogenous SDF1. A CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 blocked SDF1-mediated differentiation of progenitors into photoreceptors. SDF1 enhanced human rhodopsin promoter transcription activity, possibly via the NFκB pathway. Addition of SDF1 to the cell culture induced nuclear translocation of NFκB on retinal progenitor cell clones. Neonatal and newborn mouse retinas expressed SDF1 and CXCR4. Cells in the outer nuclear layer where photoreceptors are located expressed CXCR4 at P14 and P56. Cells in the inner nuclear layer expressed SDF1. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that retinal progenitor cell differentiation was at least partly regulated by SDF1 and CXCR4 via upregulation of NFκB activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Shimizu
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Tomoko Suzuki
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Chieko Hirotsu
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueno
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Erika Takada
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Nagisa Arimitsu
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yuji Ueda
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Sueshige Wakisaka
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Noboru Suzuki
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan, .,Department of Regenerative Medicine, St. Marianna University Graduate School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan,
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23
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Ahmad I, Teotia P, Erickson H, Xia X. Recapitulating developmental mechanisms for retinal regeneration. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 76:100824. [PMID: 31843569 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Degeneration of specific retinal neurons in diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and retinitis pigmentosa is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Currently, there is no therapy to modify the disease-associated degenerative changes. With the advancement in our knowledge about the mechanisms that regulate the development of the vertebrate retina, the approach to treat blinding diseases through regenerative medicine appears a near possibility. Recapitulation of developmental mechanisms is critical for reproducibly generating cells in either 2D or 3D culture of pluripotent stem cells for retinal repair and disease modeling. It is the key for unlocking the neurogenic potential of Müller glia in the adult retina for therapeutic regeneration. Here, we examine the current status and potential of the regenerative medicine approach for the retina in the backdrop of developmental mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqbal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
| | - Pooja Teotia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Helen Erickson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Xiaohuan Xia
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
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Santos‐Ferreira T, Herbig M, Otto O, Carido M, Karl MO, Michalakis S, Guck J, Ader M. Morpho-Rheological Fingerprinting of Rod Photoreceptors Using Real-Time Deformability Cytometry. Cytometry A 2019; 95:1145-1157. [PMID: 31107590 PMCID: PMC6900160 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Distinct cell-types within the retina are mainly specified by morphological and molecular parameters, however, physical properties are increasingly recognized as a valuable tool to characterize and distinguish cells in diverse tissues. High-throughput analysis of morpho-rheological features has recently been introduced using real-time deformability cytometry (RT-DC) providing new insights into the properties of different cell-types. Rod photoreceptors represent the main light sensing cells in the mouse retina that during development forms apically the densely packed outer nuclear layer. Currently, enrichment and isolation of photoreceptors from retinal primary tissue or pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids for analysis, molecular profiling, or transplantation is achieved using flow cytometry or magnetic activated cell sorting approaches. However, such purification methods require genetic modification or identification of cell surface binding antibody panels. Using primary retina and embryonic stem cell-derived retinal organoids, we characterized the inherent morpho-mechanical properties of mouse rod photoreceptors during development based on RT-DC. We demonstrate that rods become smaller and more compliant throughout development and that these features are suitable to distinguish rods within heterogenous retinal tissues. Hence, physical properties should be considered as additional factors that might affect photoreceptor differentiation and retinal development besides representing potential parameters for label-free sorting of photoreceptors. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Santos‐Ferreira
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Maik Herbig
- Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Oliver Otto
- Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- Centre for Innovation Competence: Humoral Immune Reactions in Cardiovascular Diseases (HIKE)University of GreifswaldGreifswaldGermany
| | - Madalena Carido
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Mike O. Karl
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)DresdenGermany
| | - Stylianos Michalakis
- Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich (CiPSM), Department of Pharmacy—Center for Drug ResearchLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Jochen Guck
- Biotechnology Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular BioengineeringTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
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25
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Garita-Hernandez M, Lampič M, Chaffiol A, Guibbal L, Routet F, Santos-Ferreira T, Gasparini S, Borsch O, Gagliardi G, Reichman S, Picaud S, Sahel JA, Goureau O, Ader M, Dalkara D, Duebel J. Restoration of visual function by transplantation of optogenetically engineered photoreceptors. Nat Commun 2019; 10:4524. [PMID: 31586094 PMCID: PMC6778196 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12330-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, with the transplantation of replacement photoreceptors, is the difficulty in inducing the grafted cells to grow and maintain light sensitive outer segments in the host retina, which depends on proper interaction with the underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Here, for an RPE-independent treatment approach, we introduce a hyperpolarizing microbial opsin into photoreceptor precursors from newborn mice, and transplant them into blind mice lacking the photoreceptor layer. These optogenetically-transformed photoreceptors are light responsive and their transplantation leads to the recovery of visual function, as shown by ganglion cell recordings and behavioral tests. Subsequently, we generate cone photoreceptors from human induced pluripotent stem cells, expressing the chloride pump Jaws. After transplantation into blind mice, we observe light-driven responses at the photoreceptor and ganglion cell levels. These results demonstrate that structural and functional retinal repair is possible by combining stem cell therapy and optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maruša Lampič
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Chaffiol
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Laure Guibbal
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Fiona Routet
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | | | - Sylvia Gasparini
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, CMCB, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver Borsch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, CMCB, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Giuliana Gagliardi
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Sacha Reichman
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Serge Picaud
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France.,CHNO des Quinze-Vingts, DHU Sight Restore, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, Paris, France.,Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, CMCB, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Deniz Dalkara
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France.
| | - Jens Duebel
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Vision, INSERM, CNRS, 75012, Paris, France. .,Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
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26
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Photoreceptor cell replacement in macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa: A pluripotent stem cell-based approach. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 71:1-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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McLelland BT, Lin B, Mathur A, Aramant RB, Thomas BB, Nistor G, Keirstead HS, Seiler MJ. Transplanted hESC-Derived Retina Organoid Sheets Differentiate, Integrate, and Improve Visual Function in Retinal Degenerate Rats. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:2586-2603. [PMID: 29847666 PMCID: PMC5968836 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate whether sheets of retina organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) can differentiate, integrate, and improve visual function in an immunodeficient rat model of severe retinal degeneration (RD). Methods 3D hESC-derived retina organoids were analyzed by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence. Sheets dissected from retina organoids (30–65 days of differentiation) were transplanted into the subretinal space of immunodeficient rho S334ter-3 rats. Visual function was tested by optokinetic testing and electrophysiologic recording in the superior colliculus. Transplants were analyzed at 54 to 300 days postsurgery by immunohistochemistry for donor and retinal markers. Results Retina organoids contained multiple retinal cell types, including progenitor populations capable of developing new cones and rods. After transplantation into an immunodeficient rat model of severe RD, the transplanted sheets differentiated, integrated, and produced functional photoreceptors and other retinal cells, according to the longer human developmental timetable. Maturation of the transplanted retinal cells created visual improvements that were measured by optokinetic testing and electrophysiologic recording in the superior colliculus. Immunohistochemistry analysis indicated that the donor cells were synaptically active. Extensive transplant projections could be seen within the host RD retina. Optical coherence tomography imaging monitored long-term transplant growth and survival up to 10 months postsurgery. Conclusions These data demonstrate that the transplantation of sheets dissected from hESC-derived retina organoids is a potential therapeutic method for restoring vision in advanced stages of RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce T McLelland
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Bin Lin
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Anuradha Mathur
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Robert B Aramant
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, United States
| | - Biju B Thomas
- University of Southern California Roski Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States
| | - Gabriel Nistor
- AIVITA Biomedical, Inc., Irvine, California, United States
| | | | - Magdalene J Seiler
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, United States
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Yanai A, McNab P, Gregory-Evans K. Retinal therapy with induced pluripotent stem cells; leading the way to human clinical trials. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2019.1568872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anat Yanai
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pia McNab
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kevin Gregory-Evans
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Gasparini SJ, Llonch S, Borsch O, Ader M. Transplantation of photoreceptors into the degenerative retina: Current state and future perspectives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 69:1-37. [PMID: 30445193 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian retina displays no intrinsic regenerative capacities, therefore retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or retinitis pigmentosa (RP) result in a permanent loss of the light-sensing photoreceptor cells. The degeneration of photoreceptors leads to vision impairment and, in later stages, complete blindness. Several therapeutic strategies have been developed to slow down or prevent further retinal degeneration, however a definitive cure i.e. replacement of the lost photoreceptors, has not yet been established. Cell-based treatment approaches, by means of photoreceptor transplantation, have been studied in pre-clinical animal models over the last three decades. The introduction of pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids represents, in principle, an unlimited source for the generation of transplantable human photoreceptors. However, safety, immunological and reproducibility-related issues regarding the use of such cells still need to be solved. Moreover, the recent finding of cytoplasmic material transfer between donor and host photoreceptors demands reinterpretation of several former transplantation studies. At the same time, material transfer between healthy donor and dysfunctional patient photoreceptors also offers a potential alternative strategy for therapeutic intervention. In this review we discuss the history and current state of photoreceptor transplantation, the techniques used to assess rescue of visual function, the prerequisites for effective transplantation as well as the main roadblocks, including safety and immune response to the graft, that need to be overcome for successful clinical translation of photoreceptor transplantation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia J Gasparini
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sílvia Llonch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver Borsch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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30
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Slembrouck-Brec A, Nanteau C, Sahel JA, Goureau O, Reichman S. Defined Xeno-free and Feeder-free Culture Conditions for the Generation of Human iPSC-derived Retinal Cell Models. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 30247478 DOI: 10.3791/57795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of specialized cells from pluripotent stem cells provides a powerful tool to develop new approaches for regenerative medicine. The use of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is particularly attractive for neurodegenerative disease studies, including retinal dystrophies, where iPSC-derived retinal cell models mark a major step forward to understand and fight blindness. In this paper, we describe a simple and scalable protocol to generate, mature, and cryopreserve retinal organoids. Based on medium changing, the main advantage of this method is to avoid multiple and time-consuming steps commonly required in a guided differentiation of iPSCs. Mimicking the early phases of retinal development by successive changes of defined media on adherent human iPSC cultures, this protocol allows the simultaneous generation of self-forming neuroretinal structures and retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells in a reproducible and efficient manner in 4 weeks. These structures containing retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) can be easily isolated for further maturation in a floating culture condition enabling the differentiation of RPCs into the seven retinal cell types present in the adult human retina. Additionally, we describe quick methods for the cryopreservation of retinal organoids and RPE cells for long-term storage. Combined together, the methods described here will be useful to produce and bank human iPSC-derived retinal cells or tissues for both basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Céline Nanteau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Sacha Reichman
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, F-75012 Paris, France;
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31
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Characterization and Transplantation of CD73-Positive Photoreceptors Isolated from Human iPSC-Derived Retinal Organoids. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 11:665-680. [PMID: 30100409 PMCID: PMC6135113 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor degenerative diseases are a major cause of blindness for which cell replacement is one of the most encouraging strategies. For stem cell-based therapy using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), it is crucial to obtain a homogenous photoreceptor cell population. We confirmed that the cell surface antigen CD73 is exclusively expressed in hiPSC-derived photoreceptors by generating a fluorescent cone rod homeobox (Crx) reporter hiPSC line using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. We demonstrated that CD73 targeting by magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) is an effective strategy to separate a safe population of transplantable photoreceptors. CD73+ photoreceptor precursors can be isolated in large numbers and transplanted into rat eyes, showing capacity to survive and mature in close proximity to host inner retina of a model of photoreceptor degeneration. These data demonstrate that CD73+ photoreceptor precursors hold great promise for a future safe clinical translation. Efficient isolation of hiPSC-derived photoreceptors via CD73-based MACS Differentiation and selection protocols readily transferable to fully GMP conditions Long-term survival of transplanted CD73+ cells in degenerated rat retina
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32
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Ovando-Roche P, West EL, Branch MJ, Sampson RD, Fernando M, Munro P, Georgiadis A, Rizzi M, Kloc M, Naeem A, Ribeiro J, Smith AJ, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Ali RR. Use of bioreactors for culturing human retinal organoids improves photoreceptor yields. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:156. [PMID: 29895313 PMCID: PMC5998504 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0907-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal cells for cell therapy strategies and disease modelling relies on the ability to obtain healthy and organised retinal tissue in sufficient quantities. Generating such tissue is a lengthy process, often taking over 6 months of cell culture, and current approaches do not always generate large quantities of the major retinal cell types required. Methods We adapted our previously described differentiation protocol to investigate the use of stirred-tank bioreactors. We used immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry and electron microscopy to characterise retinal organoids grown in standard and bioreactor culture conditions. Results Our analysis revealed that the use of bioreactors results in improved laminar stratification as well as an increase in the yield of photoreceptor cells bearing cilia and nascent outer-segment-like structures. Conclusions Bioreactors represent a promising platform for scaling up the manufacture of retinal cells for use in disease modelling, drug screening and cell transplantation studies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-018-0907-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ovando-Roche
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Emma L West
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Matthew J Branch
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Robert D Sampson
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Milan Fernando
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Peter Munro
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Anastasios Georgiadis
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Matteo Rizzi
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Magdalena Kloc
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Arifa Naeem
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Joana Ribeiro
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Alexander J Smith
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK. .,NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, City Road, London, EC1V 2PD, UK.
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33
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Gonzalez-Cordero A, Goh D, Kruczek K, Naeem A, Fernando M, Kleine Holthaus SM, Takaaki M, Blackford SJI, Kloc M, Agundez L, Sampson RD, Borooah S, Ovando-Roche P, Mehat MS, West EL, Smith AJ, Pearson RA, Ali RR. Assessment of AAV Vector Tropisms for Mouse and Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived RPE and Photoreceptor Cells. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:1124-1139. [PMID: 29580100 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2018.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral vectors are showing great promise as gene therapy vectors for a wide range of retinal disorders. To date, evaluation of therapeutic approaches has depended almost exclusively on the use of animal models. With recent advances in human stem cell technology, stem cell-derived retina now offers the possibility to assess efficacy in human organoids in vitro. Here we test six adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes [AAV2/2, AAV2/9, AAV2/8, AAV2/8T(Y733F), AAV2/5, and ShH10] to determine their efficiency in transducing mouse and human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor cells in vitro. All the serotypes tested were capable of transducing RPE and photoreceptor cells in vitro. AAV ShH10 and AAV2/5 are the most efficient vectors at transducing both mouse and human RPE, while AAV2/8 and ShH10 achieved similarly robust transduction of human embryonic stem cell-derived cone photoreceptors. Furthermore, we show that human embryonic stem cell-derived photoreceptors can be used to establish promoter specificity in human cells in vitro. The results of this study will aid capsid selection and vector design for preclinical evaluation of gene therapy approaches, such as gene editing, that require the use of human cells and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Debbie Goh
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Kamil Kruczek
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Arifa Naeem
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Milan Fernando
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Sophia-Martha Kleine Holthaus
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom .,2 MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Matsuki Takaaki
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel J I Blackford
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Magdalena Kloc
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Leticia Agundez
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Robert D Sampson
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Shyamanga Borooah
- 3 Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Ovando-Roche
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Manjit S Mehat
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L West
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander J Smith
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael A Pearson
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
| | - Robin R Ali
- 1 Department of Genetics, Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
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Cellular regeneration strategies for macular degeneration: past, present and future. Eye (Lond) 2018; 32:946-971. [PMID: 29503449 PMCID: PMC5944658 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-018-0061-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable effort and significant therapeutic advances, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains the commonest cause of blindness in the developed world. Progressive late-stage AMD with outer retinal degeneration currently has no proven treatment. There has been significant interest in the possibility that cellular treatments may slow or reverse visual loss in AMD. A number of modes of action have been suggested, including cell replacement and rescue, as well as immune modulation to delay the neurodegenerative process. Their appeal in this enigmatic disease relate to their generic, non-pathway-specific effects. The outer retina in particular has been at the forefront of developments in cellular regenerative therapies being surgically accessible, easily observable, as well as having a relatively simple architecture. Both the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors have been considered for replacement therapies as both sheets and cell suspensions. Studies using autologous RPE, and to a lesser extent, foetal retina, have shown proof of principle. A wide variety of cell sources have been proposed with pluripotent stem cell-derived cells currently holding the centre stage. Recent early-phase trials using these cells for RPE replacement have met safety endpoints and hinted at possible efficacy. Animal studies have confirmed the promise that photoreceptor replacement, even in a completely degenerated outer retina may restore some vision. Many challenges, however, remain, not least of which include avoiding immune rejection, ensuring long-term cellular survival and maximising effect. This review provides an overview of progress made, ongoing studies and challenges ahead.
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35
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Lakowski J, Welby E, Budinger D, Di Marco F, Di Foggia V, Bainbridge JWB, Wallace K, Gamm DM, Ali RR, Sowden JC. Isolation of Human Photoreceptor Precursors via a Cell Surface Marker Panel from Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Organoids and Fetal Retinae. Stem Cells 2018; 36:709-722. [PMID: 29327488 PMCID: PMC5947711 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Loss of photoreceptor cells due to retinal degeneration is one of the main causes of blindness in the developed world. Although there is currently no effective treatment, cell replacement therapy using stem‐cell‐derived photoreceptor cells may be a feasible future treatment option. In order to ensure safety and efficacy of this approach, robust cell isolation and purification protocols must be developed. To this end, we previously developed a biomarker panel for the isolation of mouse photoreceptor precursors from the developing mouse retina and mouse embryonic stem cell cultures. In the current study we applied this approach to the human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) system, and identified novel biomarker combinations that can be leveraged for the isolation of human photoreceptors. Human retinal samples and hPSC‐derived retinal organoid cultures were screened against 242 human monoclonal antibodies using a high through‐put flow cytometry approach. We identified 46 biomarkers with significant expression levels in the human retina and hPSC differentiation cultures. Human retinal cell samples, either from fetal tissue or derived from embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cell cultures, were fluorescence‐activated cell sorted (FACS) using selected candidate biomarkers that showed expression in discrete cell populations. Enrichment for photoreceptors and exclusion of mitotically active cells was demonstrated by immunocytochemical analysis with photoreceptor‐specific antibodies and Ki‐67. We established a biomarker combination, which enables the robust purification of viable human photoreceptors from both human retinae and hPSC‐derived organoid cultures. Stem Cells2018;36:709–722
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörn Lakowski
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Welby
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitri Budinger
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fabiana Di Marco
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Di Foggia
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kyle Wallace
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Waisman Center Rm T609, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David M Gamm
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Waisman Center Rm T609, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Waisman Center Rm T609, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane C Sowden
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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36
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Llonch S, Carido M, Ader M. Organoid technology for retinal repair. Dev Biol 2017; 433:132-143. [PMID: 29291970 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A major cause for vision impairment and blindness in industrialized countries is the loss of the light-sensing retinal tissue in the eye. Photoreceptor damage is one of the main characteristics found in retinal degeneration diseases, such as Retinitis Pigmentosa or age-related macular degeneration. The lack of effective therapies to stop photoreceptor loss together with the absence of significant intrinsic regeneration in the human retina converts such degenerative diseases into permanent conditions that are currently irreversible. Cell replacement by means of photoreceptor transplantation has been proposed as a potential approach to tackle cell loss in the retina. Since the first attempt of photoreceptor transplantation in humans, about twenty years ago, several research groups have focused in the development and improvement of technologies necessary to bring cell transplantation for retinal degeneration diseases to reality. Progress in recent years in the generation of human tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) has significantly improved our tools to study human development and disease in the dish. Particularly the availability of 3D culture systems for the generation of PSC-derived organoids, including the human retina, has dramatically increased access to human material for basic and medical research. In this review, we focus on important milestones towards the generation of transplantable photoreceptor precursors from PSC-derived retinal organoids and discuss recent pre-clinical transplantation studies using organoid-derived photoreceptors in context to related in vivo work using primary photoreceptors as donor material. Additionally, we summarize remaining challenges for developing photoreceptor transplantation towards clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Llonch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Madalena Carido
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases Dresden (DZNE), Arnoldstraße 18, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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Welby E, Lakowski J, Di Foggia V, Budinger D, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Lun ATL, Epstein M, Patel A, Cuevas E, Kruczek K, Naeem A, Minneci F, Hubank M, Jones DT, Marioni JC, Ali RR, Sowden JC. Isolation and Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Human Fetal and iPSC-Derived Cone Photoreceptor Cells. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 9:1898-1915. [PMID: 29153988 PMCID: PMC5785701 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of cone photoreceptors, crucial for daylight vision, has the greatest impact on sight in retinal degeneration. Transplantation of stem cell-derived L/M-opsin cones, which form 90% of the human cone population, could provide a feasible therapy to restore vision. However, transcriptomic similarities between fetal and stem cell-derived cones remain to be defined, in addition to development of cone cell purification strategies. Here, we report an analysis of the human L/M-opsin cone photoreceptor transcriptome using an AAV2/9.pR2.1:GFP reporter. This led to the identification of a cone-enriched gene signature, which we used to demonstrate similar gene expression between fetal and stem cell-derived cones. We then defined a cluster of differentiation marker combination that, when used for cell sorting, significantly enriches for cone photoreceptors from the fetal retina and stem cell-derived retinal organoids, respectively. These data may facilitate more efficient isolation of human stem cell-derived cones for use in clinical transplantation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Welby
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Jorn Lakowski
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Valentina Di Foggia
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Dimitri Budinger
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Anai Gonzalez-Cordero
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Aaron T L Lun
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Michael Epstein
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Aara Patel
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Elisa Cuevas
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Kamil Kruczek
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Arifa Naeem
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Federico Minneci
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mike Hubank
- UCL Genomics, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - David T Jones
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - John C Marioni
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK; EMBL-European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Robin R Ali
- Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Jane C Sowden
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK.
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Noel NCL, Allison WT. Connectivity of cone photoreceptor telodendria in the zebrafish retina. J Comp Neurol 2017; 526:609-625. [PMID: 29127712 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The connectivity amongst photoreceptors is critical to their function, as it underpins lateral inhibition and effective translation of stimuli into neural signals. Despite much work characterizing second-order interneurons in the outer retina, the synapses directly connecting photoreceptors have often been overlooked. Telodendria are fine processes that connect photoreceptor pedicles. They have been observed in diverse vertebrate groups, yet their roles in vision remain speculative. Here, we visualize telodendria via fluorescent protein expression in photoreceptor subtypes. We characterized short wavelength cone telodendria in adult and larval zebrafish retina. Additionally, in the larval retina, we investigated rod telodendria and UV cone telodendria in mutant and transgenic retinas with altered complements of cone types. In the adult retina, telodendria are twice as abundant and branch almost twice as often on blue cones compared to UV cones. Pedicles of neighboring UV and blue cones typically converge into contiguous pairs, despite the regular spacing of their cell bodies. In contrast to adults, larval UV cone telodendria are more numerous (1.3 times) than blue cone telodendria. UV cone telodendria are not detectably affected by ablation of blue cones, and are reduced twofold in mutant larval retina with few UV cones. We thus saw no evidence that telodendria increase in number in the absence of their typical cellular neighbors. We also found that larval rod telodendria are less abundant than short wavelength cone telodendria. In summary, we describe the development and morphology of zebrafish photoreceptor synaptic connectivity toward appreciating the function of telodendria in visual signal processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C L Noel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - W Ted Allison
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Centre for Prions & Protein Folding Disease, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Antibiotics Reduce Retinal Cell Survival In Vitro. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:781-789. [PMID: 29098663 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9826-6] [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: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Antibiotics such as gentamicin (an aminoglycoside) and penicillin (a beta-lactam antibiotic) are routinely used in retinal cell and explant cultures. In many cases, these in vitro systems are testing parameters regarding photoreceptor transplantation or preparing cells for transplantation. In vivo, milligram doses of gentamicin are neurotoxic to the retina. However, little is known about the effects of antibiotics to retina in vitro and whether smaller doses of gentamicin are toxic to retinal cells. To test toxicity, retinal cells were dissociated from tiger salamander, placed in culture, and treated with either 20 μg/ml gentamicin, 100 μg/ml streptomycin, 100 U/ml antibiotic/antimycotic, 0.25 μg/ml amphotericin B, or 100 U/ml penicillin G. All dosages were within manufacturer's recommended levels. Control cultures had defined medium only. Cells were fixed at 2 h or 7 days. Three criteria were used to assess toxicity: (1) survival of retinal neurons, (2) neuritic growth of photoreceptors assessed by the development of presynaptic varicosities, and (3) survival and morphology of Mueller cells. Rod cells were immunolabeled for rod opsin, Mueller cells for glial fibrillary acidic protein, and varicosities for synaptophysin. Neuronal cell density was reduced with all pharmacological treatments. The number of presynaptic varicosities was also significantly lower in both rod and cone photoreceptors in treated compared to control cultures; further, rods were more sensitive to gentamicin than cones. Penicillin G (100 U/ml) was overall the least inhibitory and amphotericin B the most toxic of all the agents to photoreceptors. Mueller cell survival was reduced with all treatments; reduced survival was accompanied by the appearance of proportionally fewer stellate and more rounded glial morphologies. These findings suggest that even microgram doses of antibiotic and antimycotic drugs can be neurotoxic to retinal cells and reduce neuritic regeneration in cell culture systems.
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40
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Weil BD, Jenkins MJ, Uddin S, Bracewell DG, Wellings D, Farid SS, Veraitch F. An integrated experimental and economic evaluation of cell therapy affinity purification technologies. Regen Med 2017. [DOI: 10.2217/rme-2016-0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To present an integrated techno-economic analysis assessing the feasibility of affinity purification technologies using the manufacture of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived progenitor photoreceptors for retinal dystrophies as a case study. Materials & methods: Sort purity, progenitor yield and viable cell recovery were investigated for three cell sorting techniques: fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS); magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS); and a novel technology SpheriTech beads. Experimentally derived metrics were incorporated into an advanced bioprocess economics tool to determine cost of goods per dose for each technology. Results & conclusion: Technical and bioprocess benefits were noted with SpheriTech beads which, unlike FACS and MACS, require no cell labeling. This simplifies the bioprocess, reduces cell loss and leaves target cells label free. The economic tool predicted cost drivers and a critical dose (7 × 107 cells per dose) shifting the most cost-effective technology from FACS to MACS. Process optimization is required for SpheriTech to compete economically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Weil
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Royal Free Hospital Campus, Department of Haematology, University College London, Fleet Road, London NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Michael J Jenkins
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Siddique Uddin
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Daniel G Bracewell
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Donald Wellings
- SpheriTech Ltd, The Heath Business & Technical Park, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 4QX, UK
| | - Suzanne S Farid
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Farlan Veraitch
- The Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Harnessing the Potential of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells and Gene Editing for the Treatment of Retinal Degeneration. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2017; 3:112-123. [PMID: 28596937 PMCID: PMC5445184 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-017-0078-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review A major cause of visual disorders is dysfunction and/or loss of the light-sensitive cells of the retina, the photoreceptors. To develop better treatments for patients, we need to understand how inherited retinal disease mutations result in the dysfunction of photoreceptors. New advances in the field of stem cell and gene editing research offer novel ways to model retinal dystrophies in vitro and present opportunities to translate basic biological insights into therapies. This brief review will discuss some of the issues that should be taken into account when carrying out disease modelling and gene editing of retinal cells. We will discuss (i) the use of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for disease modelling and cell therapy; (ii) the importance of using isogenic iPSC lines as controls; (iii) CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing of iPSCs; and (iv) in vivo gene editing using AAV vectors. Recent Findings Ground-breaking advances in differentiation of iPSCs into retinal organoids and methods to derive mature light sensitive photoreceptors from iPSCs. Furthermore, single AAV systems for in vivo gene editing have been developed which makes retinal in vivo gene editing therapy a real prospect. Summary Genome editing is becoming a valuable tool for disease modelling and in vivo gene editing in the retina.
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Aghaizu ND, Kruczek K, Gonzalez-Cordero A, Ali RR, Pearson RA. Pluripotent stem cells and their utility in treating photoreceptor degenerations. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2017; 231:191-223. [PMID: 28554397 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration and inherited retinal degenerations represent the leading causes of blindness in industrialized countries. Despite different initiating causes, they share a common final pathophysiology, the loss of the light sensitive photoreceptors. Replacement by transplantation may offer a potential treatment strategy for both patient populations. The last decade has seen remarkable progress in our ability to generate retinal cell types, including photoreceptors, from a variety of murine and human pluripotent stem cell sources. Driven in large part by the requirement for renewable cell sources, stem cells have emerged not only as a promising source of replacement photoreceptors but also to provide in vitro systems with which to study retinal development and disease processes and to test therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamil Kruczek
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Robin R Ali
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
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Reichman S, Slembrouck A, Gagliardi G, Chaffiol A, Terray A, Nanteau C, Potey A, Belle M, Rabesandratana O, Duebel J, Orieux G, Nandrot EF, Sahel JA, Goureau O. Generation of Storable Retinal Organoids and Retinal Pigmented Epithelium from Adherent Human iPS Cells in Xeno-Free and Feeder-Free Conditions. Stem Cells 2017; 35:1176-1188. [PMID: 28220575 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are potentially useful in regenerative therapies for retinal disease. For medical applications, therapeutic retinal cells, such as retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells or photoreceptor precursors, must be generated under completely defined conditions. To this purpose, we have developed a two-step xeno-free/feeder-free (XF/FF) culture system to efficiently differentiate hiPSCs into retinal cells. This simple method, relies only on adherent hiPSCs cultured in chemically defined media, bypassing embryoid body formation. In less than 1 month, adherent hiPSCs are able to generate self-forming neuroretinal-like structures containing retinal progenitor cells (RPCs). Floating cultures of isolated structures enabled the differentiation of RPCs into all types of retinal cells in a sequential overlapping order, with the generation of transplantation-compatible CD73+ photoreceptor precursors in less than 100 days. Our XF/FF culture conditions allow the maintenance of both mature cones and rods in retinal organoids until 280 days with specific photoreceptor ultrastructures. Moreover, both hiPSC-derived retinal organoids and dissociated retinal cells can be easily cryopreserved while retaining their phenotypic characteristics and the preservation of CD73+ photoreceptor precursors. Concomitantly to neural retina, this process allows the generation of RPE cells that can be effortlessly amplified, passaged, and frozen while retaining a proper RPE phenotype. These results demonstrate that simple and efficient retinal differentiation of adherent hiPSCs can be accomplished in XF/FF conditions. This new method is amenable to the development of an in vitro GMP-compliant retinal cell manufacturing protocol allowing large-scale production and banking of hiPSC-derived retinal cells and tissues. Stem Cells 2017;35:1176-1188.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sacha Reichman
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Amélie Slembrouck
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Giuliana Gagliardi
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Chaffiol
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Angélique Terray
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Céline Nanteau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Anais Potey
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Morgane Belle
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Oriane Rabesandratana
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Jens Duebel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Gael Orieux
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Emeline F Nandrot
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DHOS CIC 1423, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Universités, INSERM, CNRS UMR 7210, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France
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Santos-Ferreira TF, Borsch O, Ader M. Rebuilding the Missing Part-A Review on Photoreceptor Transplantation. Front Syst Neurosci 2017; 10:105. [PMID: 28105007 PMCID: PMC5214672 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2016.00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Vision represents one of the main senses for humans to interact with their environment. Our sight relies on the presence of fully functional light sensitive cells – rod and cone photoreceptors — allowing us to see under dim (rods) and bright (cones) light conditions. Photoreceptor degeneration is one of the major causes for vision impairment in industrialized countries and it is highly predominant in the population above the age of 50. Thus, with the continuous increase in life expectancy it will make retinal degeneration reach an epidemic proportion. To date, there is no cure established for photoreceptor loss, but several therapeutic approaches, spanning from neuroprotection, pharmacological drugs, gene therapy, retinal prosthesis, and cell (RPE or photoreceptor) transplantation, have been developed over the last decade with some already introduced in clinical trials. In this review, we focus on current developments in photoreceptor transplantation strategies, its major breakthroughs, current limitations and the next challenges to translate such cell-based approaches toward clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago F Santos-Ferreira
- DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Cluster of Excellence, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver Borsch
- DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Cluster of Excellence, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- DFG-Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Cluster of Excellence, Technische Universität Dresden Dresden, Germany
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45
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Davari M, Soheili ZS, Samiei S, Sharifi Z, Pirmardan ER. Overexpression of miR-183/-96/-182 triggers neuronal cell fate in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial (hRPE) cells in culture. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 483:745-751. [PMID: 27965090 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.12.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
miR-183 cluster, composed of miR-183/-96/-182 genes, is highly expressed in the adult retina, particularly in photoreceptors. It involves in development, maturation and normal function of neuroretina. Ectopic overexpression of miR-183/-96/-182 genes was performed to assess reprogramming of hRPE cells. They were amplified from genomic DNA and cloned independently or in tandem configuration into pAAV.MCS vector. hRPE cells were then transfected with the recombinant constructs. Real-Time PCR was performed to measure the expression levels of miR-183/-96/-182 and that of several retina-specific neuronal genes such as OTX2, NRL, PDC and DCT. The transfected cells also were immunocytochemically examined for retina-specific neuronal markers, including Rhodopsin, red opsin, CRX, Thy1, CD73, recoverin and PKCα, to determine the cellular fate of the transfected hRPE cells. Data showed that upon miR-183/-96/-182 overexpression in hRPE cultures, the expression of neuronal genes including OTX2, NRL, PDC and DCT was also upregulated. Moreover, miR-183 cluster-treated hRPE cells were immunoreactive for neuronal markers such as Rhodopsin, red opsin, CRX and Thy1. Both transcriptional and translational upregulation of neuronal genes in miR-183 cluster-treated hRPE cells suggests that in vitro overexpression of miR-183 cluster could trigger reprogramming of hRPE cells to retinal neuron fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Davari
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahram Samiei
- Blood Transfusion Research Center High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sharifi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ranaei Pirmardan
- Department of Molecular Genetic, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Glaviano A, Smith AJ, Blanco A, McLoughlin S, Cederlund ML, Heffernan T, Sapetto-Rebow B, Alvarez Y, Yin J, Kennedy BN. A method for isolation of cone photoreceptors from adult zebrafish retinae. BMC Neurosci 2016; 17:71. [PMID: 27821066 PMCID: PMC5100264 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-016-0307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cone photoreceptors are specialised sensory retinal neurons responsible for photopic vision, colour perception and visual acuity. Retinal degenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group of eye diseases in which the most severe vision loss typically arises from cone photoreceptor dysfunction or degeneration. Establishing a method to purify cone photoreceptors from retinal tissue can accelerate the identification of key molecular determinants that underlie cone photoreceptor development, survival and function. The work herein describes a new method to purify enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-labelled cone photoreceptors from adult retina of Tg(3.2gnat2:EGFP) zebrafish. Results Methods for dissecting adult zebrafish retinae, cell dissociation, cell sorting, RNA isolation and RNA quality control were optimised. The dissociation protocol, carried out with ~30 retinae from adult zebrafish, yielded approximately 6 × 106 cells. Flow cytometry cell sorting subsequently distinguished 1 × 106 EGFP+ cells and 4 × 106 EGFP− cells. Electropherograms confirmed downstream isolation of high-quality RNA with RNA integrity number (RIN) >7.6 and RNA concentration >5.7 ng/µl obtained from both populations. Reverse Transcriptase-PCR confirmed that the EGFP-positive cell populations express known genetic markers of cone photoreceptors that were not expressed in the EGFP-negative cell population whereas a rod opsin amplicon was only detected in the EGFP-negative retinal cell population. Conclusions This work describes a valuable adult zebrafish cone photoreceptor isolation methodology enabling future identification of cone photoreceptor-enriched genes, proteins and signalling networks responsible for their development, survival and function. In addition, this advancement facilitates the identification of novel candidate genes for inherited human blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Glaviano
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Andrew J Smith
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Alfonso Blanco
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Sarah McLoughlin
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Maria L Cederlund
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Theresa Heffernan
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Beata Sapetto-Rebow
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Yolanda Alvarez
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Jun Yin
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Breandán N Kennedy
- UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science, UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland.
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Santos-Ferreira T, Llonch S, Borsch O, Postel K, Haas J, Ader M. Retinal transplantation of photoreceptors results in donor-host cytoplasmic exchange. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13028. [PMID: 27701381 PMCID: PMC5059459 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-clinical studies provided evidence for successful photoreceptor cell replacement therapy. Migration and integration of donor photoreceptors into the retina has been proposed as the underlying mechanism for restored visual function. Here we reveal that donor photoreceptors do not structurally integrate into the retinal tissue but instead reside between the photoreceptor layer and the retinal pigment epithelium, the so-called sub-retinal space, and exchange intracellular material with host photoreceptors. By combining single-cell analysis, Cre/lox technology and independent labelling of the cytoplasm and nucleus, we reliably track allogeneic transplants demonstrating cellular content transfer between graft and host photoreceptors without nuclear translocation. Our results contradict the common view that transplanted photoreceptors migrate and integrate into the photoreceptor layer of recipients and therefore imply a re-interpretation of previous photoreceptor transplantation studies. Furthermore, the observed interaction of donor with host photoreceptors may represent an unexpected mechanism for the treatment of blinding diseases in future cell therapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Santos-Ferreira
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sílvia Llonch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Oliver Borsch
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kai Postel
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jochen Haas
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Marius Ader
- CRTD/Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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Donor and host photoreceptors engage in material transfer following transplantation of post-mitotic photoreceptor precursors. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13029. [PMID: 27701378 PMCID: PMC5059468 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor replacement by transplantation is proposed as a treatment for blindness. Transplantation of healthy photoreceptor precursor cells into diseased murine eyes leads to the presence of functional photoreceptors within host retinae that express an array of donor-specific proteins. The resulting improvement in visual function was understood to be due to donor cells integrating within host retinae. Here, however, we show that while integration occurs the majority of donor-reporter-labelled cells in the host arises as a result of material transfer between donor and host photoreceptors. Material transfer does not involve permanent donor–host nuclear or cell–cell fusion, or the uptake of free protein or nucleic acid from the extracellular environment. Instead, RNA and/or protein are exchanged between donor and host cells in vivo. These data require a re-evaluation of the mechanisms underlying rescue by photoreceptor transplantation and raise the possibility of material transfer as a strategy for the treatment of retinal disorders. Transplantation of healthy photoreceptor cells has been shown to rescue blindness. Here, the authors show that rather than donor cells integrating into the host retina, the predominant mechanism underlying this rescue involves exchange of cytoplasmic material between donor and host cells in vivo.
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49
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Deregulation of ocular nucleotide homeostasis in patients with diabetic retinopathy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2016; 95:193-204. [PMID: 27638339 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-016-1472-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Clear signaling roles for ATP and adenosine have been established in all tissues, including the eye. The magnitude of signaling responses is governed by networks of enzymes; however, little is known about the regulatory mechanisms of purinergic signaling in the eye. By employing thin-layer chromatographic assays with 3H-labeled substrates, this study aimed to evaluate the role of nucleotide homeostasis in the pathogenesis of vitreoretinal diseases in humans. We have identified soluble enzymes ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73, adenylate kinase-1, and nucleoside diphosphate kinase in the vitreous fluid that control active cycling between pro-inflammatory ATP and anti-inflammatory adenosine. Strikingly, patients with proliferative form of diabetic retinopathy (DR) had higher adenylate kinase activity and ATP concentration, when compared to non-proliferative DR eyes and non-diabetic controls operated for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, macular hole, and pucker. The non-parametric correlation analysis revealed positive correlations between intravitreal adenylate kinase and concentrations of ATP, ADP, and other angiogenic (angiopoietins-1 and -2), profibrotic (transforming growth factor-β1), and proteolytic (matrix metalloproteinase-9) factors but not erythropoietin and VEGF. Immunohistochemical staining of postmortem human retina additionally revealed selective expression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73 on the rod-and-cone-containing photoreceptor cells. Collectively, these findings provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms that influence purinergic signaling in diseased eye and open up new possibilities in the development of enzyme-targeted therapeutic approaches for prevention and treatment of DR. KEY MESSAGE Ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73 and adenylate kinase-1 circulate in human vitreous fluid. Adenylate kinase activity is high in diabetic eyes with proliferative retinopathy. Diabetic eyes display higher intravitreal ATP/ADP ratio than non-diabetic controls. Soluble adenylate kinase maintains resynthesis of inflammatory ATP in diabetic eyes.
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50
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Barnea-Cramer AO, Wang W, Lu SJ, Singh MS, Luo C, Huo H, McClements ME, Barnard AR, MacLaren RE, Lanza R. Function of human pluripotent stem cell-derived photoreceptor progenitors in blind mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:29784. [PMID: 27405580 PMCID: PMC4942817 DOI: 10.1038/srep29784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor degeneration due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a primary cause of inherited retinal blindness. Photoreceptor cell-replacement may hold the potential for repair in a completely degenerate retina by reinstating light sensitive cells to form connections that relay information to downstream retinal layers. This study assessed the therapeutic potential of photoreceptor progenitors derived from human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (ESCs and iPSCs) using a protocol that is suitable for future clinical trials. ESCs and iPSCs were cultured in four specific stages under defined conditions, resulting in generation of a near-homogeneous population of photoreceptor-like progenitors. Following transplantation into mice with end-stage retinal degeneration, these cells differentiated into photoreceptors and formed a cell layer connected with host retinal neurons. Visual function was partially restored in treated animals, as evidenced by two visual behavioral tests. Furthermore, the magnitude of functional improvement was positively correlated with the number of engrafted cells. Similar efficacy was observed using either ESCs or iPSCs as source material. These data validate the potential of human pluripotent stem cells for photoreceptor replacement therapies aimed at photoreceptor regeneration in retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei Wang
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Shi-Jiang Lu
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Mandeep S Singh
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, England
| | - Chenmei Luo
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | - Hongguang Huo
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
| | | | - Alun R Barnard
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, London, England.,Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, England
| | - Robert Lanza
- Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 33 Locke Dr, Marlborough, MA 01752, USA
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