1
|
Fan Z, Hu Y, Chen L, Lu X, Zheng L, Ma D, Li Z, Zhong J, Lin L, Zhang S, Zhang G. Multiplatform tear proteomic profiling reveals novel non-invasive biomarkers for diabetic retinopathy. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:1509-1517. [PMID: 38336992 PMCID: PMC11126564 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-02938-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate a comprehensive proteomic profile of the tear fluid in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and further define non-invasive biomarkers. METHODS A cross-sectional, multicentre study that includes 46 patients with DR, 28 patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), and 30 healthy controls (HC). Tear samples were collected with Schirmer strips. As for the discovery set, data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry was used to characterize the tear proteomic profile. Differentially expressed proteins between groups were identified, with gene ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis further developed. Classifying performance of biomarkers for distinguishing DR from DM was compared by the combination of three machine-learning algorithms. The selected biomarker panel was tested in the validation cohort using parallel reaction monitoring mass spectrometry. RESULTS Among 3364 proteins quantified, 235 and 88 differentially expressed proteins were identified for DR when compared to HC and DM, respectively, which were fundamentally related to retina homeostasis, inflammation and immunity, oxidative stress, angiogenesis and coagulation, metabolism, and cellular adhesion processes. The biomarker panel consisting of NAD-dependent protein deacetylase sirtuin-2 (SIR2), amine oxidase [flavin-containing] B (AOFB), and U8 snoRNA-decapping enzyme (NUD16) exhibited the best diagnostic performance in discriminating DR from DM, with AUCs of 0.933 and 0.881 in the discovery and validation set, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Tear protein dysregulation is comprehensively revealed to be associated with DR onset. The combination of tear SIR2, AOFB, and NUD16 can be a novel potential approach for non-invasive detection or pre-screening of DR. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2100054263. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=143177 . Date of registration: 2021/12/12.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Fan
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
- International Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Yarou Hu
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Laijiao Chen
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lu
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Dahui Ma
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Shenmei Eye Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong, 514000, China
| | - Jingwen Zhong
- Shenmei Eye Hospital, Meizhou, Guangdong, 514000, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China
| | - Sifan Zhang
- New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Guoming Zhang
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518040, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aydin E, Nie S, Azizoglu S, Chong L, Gokhale M, Suphioglu C. What's the situation with ocular inflammation? A cross-seasonal investigation of proteomic changes in ocular allergy sufferers' tears in Victoria, Australia. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1386344. [PMID: 38855108 PMCID: PMC11157006 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1386344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ocular allergy (OA) is a localized subset of allergy characterized by ocular surface itchiness, redness and inflammation. Inflammation and eye-rubbing, due to allergy-associated itch, are common in OA sufferers and may trigger changes to the ocular surface biochemistry. The primary aim of this study is to assess the differences in the human tear proteome between OA sufferers and Healthy Controls (HCs) across peak allergy season and off-peak season in Victoria, Australia. Methods 19 participants (14 OA sufferers, 5 HCs) aged 18-45 were recruited for this study. Participants were grouped based on allergy symptom assessment questionnaire scoring. Proteins were extracted from human tear samples and were run on an Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer. Peaks were matched to a DIA library. Data was analyzed using the software MaxQuant, Perseus and IBM SPSS. Results 1267 proteins were identified in tear samples of OA sufferers and HCs. 23 proteins were differentially expressed between peak allergy season OA suffers vs HCs, and 21 were differentially expressed in off-peak season. Decreased proteins in OA sufferers related to cell structure regulation, inflammatory regulation and antimicrobial regulation. In both seasons, OA sufferers were shown to have increased expression of proteins relating to inflammation, immune responses and cellular development. Conclusion Tear protein identification showed dysregulation of proteins involved in inflammation, immunity and cellular structures. Proteins relating to cellular structure may suggest a possible link between OA-associated itch and the subsequent ocular surface damage via eye-rubbing, while inflammatory and immune protein changes highlight potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers of OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esrin Aydin
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Shuai Nie
- Bio21 Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Serap Azizoglu
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Luke Chong
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Moneisha Gokhale
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Song T, Song J, Li J, Ben Hilal H, Li X, Feng P, Chen W. The candidate proteins associated with keratoconus: A meta-analysis and bioinformatic analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299739. [PMID: 38483957 PMCID: PMC10939257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Keratoconus (KC) is a multifactorial disorder. This study aimed to conduct a systematic meta-analysis to exclusively explore the candidate proteins associated with KC pathogenesis. METHODS Relevant literature published in the last ten years in Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched. Protein expression data were presented as the standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The meta-analysis is registered on PROSPERO, registration number CRD42022332442 and was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA). GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed, as well as the miRNAs and chemicals targeting the candidate proteins were predicted. PPI was analyzed to screen the hub proteins, and their expression was verified by RT-qPCR. RESULTS A total of 21 studies were included in the meta-analysis, involving 346 normal eyes and 493 KC eyes. 18 deregulated proteins with significant SMD values were subjected to further analysis. In which, 7 proteins were up-regulated in KC compared with normal controls, including IL6 (SMD 1.54, 95%CI [0.85, 2.24]), IL1B (SMD 2.07, 95%CI [0.98, 3.16]), TNF (SMD 2.1, 95%CI [0.24, 3.96]), and MMP9 (SMD 1.96, 95%CI [0.68, 3.24]). While 11 proteins were down-regulated in KC including LOX (SMD 2.54, 95%CI [-4.51, -0.57]). GO and KEGG analysis showed that the deregulated proteins were involved in inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and apoptosis. MMP9, IL6, LOX, TNF, and IL1B were regarded as hub proteins according to the PPI analysis, and their transcription changes in stromal fibroblasts of KC were consistent with the results of the meta-analysis. Moreover, 10 miRNAs and two natural polyphenols interacting with hub proteins were identified. CONCLUSION This study obtained 18 candidate proteins and demonstrated altered cytokine profiles, ECM remodeling, and apoptosis in KC patients through meta-analysis and bioinformatic analysis. It will provide biomarkers for further understanding of KC pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic targets for the drug treatment of KC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Song
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jie Song
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Halima Ben Hilal
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Pengfei Feng
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| | - Weiyi Chen
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jaskiewicz K, Maleszka-Kurpiel M, Kabza M, Karolak JA, Gajecka M. Sequence variants contributing to dysregulated inflammatory responses across keratoconic cone surface in adolescent patients with keratoconus. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1197054. [PMID: 37483635 PMCID: PMC10359427 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1197054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Keratoconus (KTCN) is the most common corneal ectasia resulting in a conical shape of the cornea. Here, genomic variation in the corneal epithelium (CE) across the keratoconic cone surface in patients with KTCN and its relevance in the functioning of the immune system were assessed. Methods Samples from four unrelated adolescent patients with KTCN and two control individuals were obtained during the CXL and PRK procedures, respectively. Three topographic regions, central, middle, and peripheral, were separated towards the whole-genome sequencing (WGS) study embracing a total of 18 experimental samples. The coding and non-coding sequence variation, including structural variation, was assessed and then evaluated together with the previously reported transcriptomic outcomes for the same CE samples and full-thickness corneas. Results First, pathway enrichment analysis of genes with identified coding variants pointed to "Antigen presentation" and "Interferon alpha/beta signaling" as the most overrepresented pathways, indicating the involvement of inflammatory responses in KTCN. Both coding and non-coding sequence variants were found in genes (or in their close proximity) linked to the previously revealed KTCN-specific cellular components, namely, "Actin cytoskeleton", "Extracellular matrix", "Collagen-containing extracellular matrix", "Focal adhesion", "Hippo signaling pathway", and "Wnt signaling" pathways. No genomic heterogeneity across the corneal surface was found comparing the assessed topographic regions. Thirty-five chromosomal regions enriched in both coding and non-coding KTCN-specific sequence variants were revealed, with a most representative 5q locus previously recognized as involved in KTCN. Conclusion The identified genomic features indicate the involvement of innate and adaptive immune system responses in KTCN pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Maleszka-Kurpiel
- Optegra Eye Health Care Clinic in Poznan, Poznan, Poland
- Chair of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Michał Kabza
- Chair and Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Justyna A. Karolak
- Chair and Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marzena Gajecka
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Chair and Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ren S, Yang K, Fan Q, Wang Q, Zhu M, Yin S, Gu Y, Xu L. Bioinformatics analysis of key candidate genes and pathways in Chinese patients with keratoconus. Exp Eye Res 2023; 231:109488. [PMID: 37116607 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109488] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a multifactorial disease in which genetic factors played important roles in its pathogenesis. The purpose of the current study was to identify the key candidate genes and pathways in Chinese patients with KC through bioinformatics analysis. Totally, we identified 71 candidate genes by analyzing the results of whole exome sequencing on 51 Chinese patients with KC, combining with previous reports on differential expression at transcription and protein levels in KC. Gene enrichment analysis with GeneCodis demonstrated that two significantly enriched terms including 21 genes in biological process (BP) were detected, and six significantly enriched terms containing 14 genes in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway were discovered. The STRING was utilized to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of identified genes. The result showed that a PPI network consisted of 14 nodes with 14 edges was constructed, and two gene modules were obtained. Eight hub genes (LAMB3, LAMA3, LAMA1, ITGA6, ITGA3, COL6A3, COL6A2, and COL6A1) were identified as key candidate genes for KC by cytoHubba in Cytoscape. Functional enrichment analysis with ClueGO and CluePedia indicated that the ECM-receptor interaction was the key pathway accounted for KC. The findings might provide novel insights on the genetic basis of KC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Ren
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China; Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Kaili Yang
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Qi Fan
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Henan University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Shanshan Yin
- Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institution, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Yuwei Gu
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Liyan Xu
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Regueiro U, López-López M, Varela-Fernández R, Otero-Espinar FJ, Lema I. Biomedical Applications of Lactoferrin on the Ocular Surface. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030865. [PMID: 36986726 PMCID: PMC10052036 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (LF) is a first-line defense protein with a pleiotropic functional pattern that includes anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumoral properties. Remarkably, this iron-binding glycoprotein promotes iron retention, restricting free radical production and avoiding oxidative damage and inflammation. On the ocular surface, LF is released from corneal epithelial cells and lacrimal glands, representing a significant percentage of the total tear fluid proteins. Due to its multifunctionality, the availability of LF may be limited in several ocular disorders. Consequently, to reinforce the action of this highly beneficial glycoprotein on the ocular surface, LF has been proposed for the treatment of different conditions such as dry eye, keratoconus, conjunctivitis, and viral or bacterial ocular infections, among others. In this review, we outline the structure and the biological functions of LF, its relevant role at the ocular surface, its implication in LF-related ocular surface disorders, and its potential for biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uxía Regueiro
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maite López-López
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rubén Varela-Fernández
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Otero-Espinar
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Institute of Materials (iMATUS), University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.J.O.-E.); (I.L.)
| | - Isabel Lema
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.J.O.-E.); (I.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peris-Martínez C, Piá-Ludeña JV, Rog-Revert MJ, Fernández-López E, Domingo JC. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Oral Supplementation with a Highly-Concentrated Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Triglyceride in Patients with Keratoconus: A Randomized Controlled Preliminary Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15051300. [PMID: 36904299 PMCID: PMC10005296 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051300] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A prospective, randomized, single-center preliminary study was performed in patients with keratoconus stages I-III (Amsler-Krumeich), who received a high rich docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (1000 mg/day) supplement for 3 months versus untreated patients. One eye per patient was evaluated. Thirty-four patients were recruited (75% men, mean age 31 years), with 15 randomized to the control group and 19 to the DHA-treated group. Corneal topography variables and plasma biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammatory status were evaluated. A panel of fatty acids in blood samples was also assessed. There were significant between-group differences in the astigmatism axis, asphericity coefficient, and intraocular pressure in favor of the DHA group. Additionally, between-group significant differences in total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), free glutathione (GSH) and GSH/GSSG ratio, as well as reduced values of inflammatory markers, including interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) were found. These preliminary findings support the usefulness of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of DHA supplementation for targeting underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of keratoconus. Prolonged duration of DHA supplementation may be needed to detect more noticeable clinical changes in corneal topography.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Peris-Martínez
- Unit of Cornea and Anterior Eye Diseases, FISABIO Medical Ophthalmology (FOM), C/Pío Baroja 12, E-46015 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, Universitat de Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibáñez 15, E-46010 Valencia, Spain
- Aviñó Peris Eye Clinic, Avenida del Oeste 34, E-46001 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - José Vicente Piá-Ludeña
- Unit of Cornea and Anterior Eye Diseases, FISABIO Medical Ophthalmology (FOM), C/Pío Baroja 12, E-46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - María José Rog-Revert
- Unit of Cornea and Anterior Eye Diseases, FISABIO Medical Ophthalmology (FOM), C/Pío Baroja 12, E-46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ester Fernández-López
- Unit of Cornea and Anterior Eye Diseases, FISABIO Medical Ophthalmology (FOM), C/Pío Baroja 12, E-46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Joan Carles Domingo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Avinguda Diagonal 643, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Altman J, Jones G, Ahmed S, Sharma S, Sharma A. Tear Film MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3694. [PMID: 36835108 PMCID: PMC9962948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs that serve as regulatory molecules in a variety of pathways such as inflammation, metabolism, homeostasis, cell machinery, and development. With the progression of sequencing methods and modern bioinformatics tools, novel roles of microRNAs in regulatory mechanisms and pathophysiological states continue to expand. Advances in detection methods have further enabled larger adoption of studies utilizing minimal sample volumes, allowing the analysis of microRNAs in low-volume biofluids, such as the aqueous humor and tear fluid. The reported abundance of extracellular microRNAs in these biofluids has prompted studies to explore their biomarker potential. This review compiles the current literature reporting microRNAs in human tear fluid and their association with ocular diseases including dry eye disease, Sjögren's syndrome, keratitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, glaucoma, diabetic macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy, as well as non-ocular diseases, including Alzheimer's and breast cancer. We also summarize the known roles of these microRNAs and shed light on the future progression of this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Altman
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Garrett Jones
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Saleh Ahmed
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Shruti Sharma
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ashok Sharma
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shu DY, Chaudhary S, Cho KS, Lennikov A, Miller WP, Thorn DC, Yang M, McKay TB. Role of Oxidative Stress in Ocular Diseases: A Balancing Act. Metabolites 2023; 13:187. [PMID: 36837806 PMCID: PMC9960073 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13020187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is a delicate balancing act of maintaining appropriate levels of antioxidant defense mechanisms and reactive oxidizing oxygen and nitrogen species. Any disruption of this balance leads to oxidative stress, which is a key pathogenic factor in several ocular diseases. In this review, we present the current evidence for oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in conditions affecting both the anterior segment (e.g., dry eye disease, keratoconus, cataract) and posterior segment (age-related macular degeneration, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma) of the human eye. We posit that further development of therapeutic interventions to promote pro-regenerative responses and maintenance of the redox balance may delay or prevent the progression of these major ocular pathologies. Continued efforts in this field will not only yield a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of ocular diseases but also enable the identification of novel druggable redox targets and antioxidant therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Y. Shu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Suman Chaudhary
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kin-Sang Cho
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anton Lennikov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - William P. Miller
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - David C. Thorn
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Menglu Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tina B. McKay
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lasagni Vitar RM, Fonteyne P, Knutsson KA, Bertuzzi F, Galli L, Rama P, Ferrari G. Vitamin D Supplementation Impacts Systemic Biomarkers of Collagen Degradation and Copper Metabolism in Patients With Keratoconus. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:16. [PMID: 36580321 PMCID: PMC9804020 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.12.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the impact of vitamin D (Vit D) supplementation on systemic biomarkers of collagen degradation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and copper metabolism in adolescent patients with keratoconus (KC). Methods This was a prospective observational pilot study. Twenty patients (age range, 16-19 years) presenting KC and Vit D insufficiency (<30 ng/mL) were included. Vit D supplementation was prescribed by their general practitioner as per the standard of care. Patients were followed up for 12 months. At each visit, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), maximal keratometry (Kmax), and thinnest corneal thickness (TCT) were evaluated. The primary outcome of the study was the proportion of patients with Kmax progression of less than 1 D throughout the 12-month follow-up time. Blood samples were collected at different time points to evaluate Vit D levels and systemic markers of collagen degradation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and copper metabolism by ELISA or RT-PCR. Results Lower Vit D levels in the plasma were correlated with higher levels of systemic biomarkers of collagen degradation. Vit D supplementation increased the cell availability of copper. Moreover, stabilization of KC progression was found in 60% of patients (72% of eyes) after 12 months with Vit D supplementation. BSCVA, Kmax, and TCT rates remained stable during the observation period. Conclusions Our findings support that Vit D administration could affect ocular and systemic biomarkers in KC and illuminate a possible mechanism that can be used to develop new treatment alternatives. Translational Relevance Although KC therapy currently relies exclusively on surgical procedures, Vit D supplementation may offer a non-invasive and inexpensive alternative with minimal associated side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romina Mayra Lasagni Vitar
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Philippe Fonteyne
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Karl Anders Knutsson
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Bertuzzi
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Galli
- Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Rama
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Ferrari
- Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease Unit, Eye Repair Lab, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Dias-Teixeira KL, Sharifian Gh M, Romano J, Norouzi F, Laurie GW. Autophagy in the normal and diseased cornea. Exp Eye Res 2022; 225:109274. [PMID: 36252655 PMCID: PMC10083687 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The cornea and covering tear film are together the 'objective lens' of the eye through which 80% of light is refracted. Despite exposure to a physically harsh and at times infectious or toxic environment, transparency essential for sight is in most cases maintained. Such resiliency makes the avascular cornea a superb model for the exploration of autophagy in the regulation of homeostasis with relevancy to all organs. Nonetheless, missense mutations and inflammation respectively clog or apparently overwhelm autophagic flux to create dystrophies much like in neurodegenerative diseases or further exacerbate inflammation. Here there is opportunity to generate novel topical therapies towards the restoration of homeostasis with potential broad application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeff Romano
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Norouzi
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Gordon W Laurie
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hefley BS, Deighan C, Vasini B, Khan A, Hjortdal J, Riaz KM, Liu Y, Karamichos D. Revealing the presence of tear extracellular vesicles in Keratoconus. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109242. [PMID: 36084727 PMCID: PMC10159047 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-bound vesicles that originate from the endosomal system or budded off from the plasma membrane. EVs are involved in cell-cell communication via transporting DNA, RNA, and proteins from one cell to another. Tear EVs (tEVs) have been reported in dry eye, Sjӧgren's Syndrome, and primary open-angle glaucoma. In this study, we sought to investigate the presence of tEVs in relation to keratoconus (KC). Tears were passively collected from the lateral meniscus from 10 healthy (5 males and 5 females) and 9 KC (4 males and 5 females) subjects. Tear samples were processed and analyzed using the ExoView™ R100. Statistical analysis was performed using a Mann-Whitney U non-parametric Student's t-test. All tEVs, in both Healthy and KC subjects, showed a CD9+ dominant tEV cohort independent of sex. A significant decrease in CD63+/CD9+ and CD63+/CD81+/CD9+ was found in the male KC tEVs (p < 0.05), but not in females compared to their healthy counterparts. Neither Healthy nor KC tEVs showed differences in the total number of tEVs, however significant differences were identified between the sexes (p < 0.05), with males having a higher number of tEVs. tEVs diameters ranged from 50 to 200 nm, in both Healthy and KC cohorts, with the majority in the 50-80 nm range suggesting exosome-dominant cohorts. To our knowledge, this is the first time, to date, that tEVs have been isolated and characterized in KCs. While further studies are warranted, the tEVs differences between KC and Healthy subjects suggest a potential role for tEVs in KC pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brenna S Hefley
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | | | - Brenda Vasini
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | - Asher Khan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jesper Hjortdal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 167, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Kamran M Riaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA; James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Regueiro U, López-López M, Varela-Fernández R, Sobrino T, Diez-Feijoo E, Lema I. Immunomodulatory Effect of Human Lactoferrin on Toll-like Receptors 2 Expression as Therapeutic Approach for Keratoconus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012350. [PMID: 36293206 PMCID: PMC9604127 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012350] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a corneal disorder whose etiology shares a close relationship with Lactoferrin (LTF) dysregulation and Toll-like Receptors 2 (TLR2) overexpression. This study shows how these two important biomarkers are clinically and molecularly interrelated, increasing knowledge about KC pathophysiology, and opening the door to future therapies. In this prospective clinical study, serum and tear LTF concentrations were quantified in 90 KC patients and 60 controls. A correlation analysis with multiple blood and tear immunoinflammatory mediators, and KC-associated tomographic parameters, was performed. An in vitro study using HEK-BlueTMhTLR2 cell cultures was also conducted to determine the expression and functionality of TLR2 under the influence of LTF treatment. As a result, a LTF decreased was observed in KC patients compared to controls (p < 0.0001), evidencing the strong correlation with TLR2 overexpression at systemic and ocular surface level, with inflammatory mediator upregulation and with KC severity. In stimulated cell cultures, TLR2 expression was decreased using 2 mg/mL of LTF. The levels of secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were also reduced in supernatants after LTF treatment. As conclusions, the dysregulation of LTF and TLR2 in the ocular surface of KC patients contributes to KC severity by maintaining a detrimental chronic immune−inflammatory state. The immunomodulatory properties of LTF on TLR2 expression suggest its potential as a therapeutic approach for KC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uxía Regueiro
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (U.R.); (I.L.); Tel.: +34-981951086 (U.R. & I.L.)
| | - Maite López-López
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rubén Varela-Fernández
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Tomás Sobrino
- NeuroAging Laboratory (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Elio Diez-Feijoo
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Isabel Lema
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15705 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Correspondence: (U.R.); (I.L.); Tel.: +34-981951086 (U.R. & I.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Corneal epithelium in keratoconus underexpresses active NRF2 and a subset of oxidative stress-related genes. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273807. [PMID: 36240204 PMCID: PMC9565379 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a multifactorial progressive ectatic disorder characterized by local thinning of the cornea, leading to decreased visual acuity due to irregular astigmatism and opacities. Despite the evolution of advanced imaging methods, the exact etiology of KC remains unknown. Our aim was to investigate the involvement of corneal epithelium in the pathophysiology of the disease. Corneal epithelial samples were collected from 23 controls and from 2 cohorts of patients with KC: 22 undergoing corneal crosslinking (early KC) and 6 patients before penetrating keratoplasty (advanced KC). The expression of genes involved in the epidermal terminal differentiation program and of the oxidative stress pathway was assessed by real time PCR analysis. Presence of some of the differentially expressed transcripts was confirmed at protein level using immunofluorescence on controls and advanced KC additional corneal samples. We found statistically significant under-expression in early KC samples of some genes known to be involved in the mechanical resistance of the epidermis (KRT16, KRT14, SPRR1A, SPRR2A, SPRR3, TGM1 and TGM5) and in oxidative stress pathways (NRF2, HMOX1 and HMOX2), as compared to controls. In advanced KC samples, expression of SPRR2A and HMOX1 was reduced. Decreased expression of keratin (KRT)16 and KRT14 proteins was observed. Moreover, differential localization was noted for involucrin, another protein involved in the epidermis mechanical properties. Finally, we observed an immunofluorescence staining for the active form of NRF2 in control epithelia that was reduced in KC epithelia. These results suggest a defect in the mechanical resistance and the oxidative stress defense possibly mediated via the NRF2 pathway in the corneal keratoconic epithelium.
Collapse
|
15
|
López-López M, Regueiro U, Bravo SB, Chantada-Vázquez MDP, Pena C, Díez-Feijoo E, Hervella P, Lema I. Shotgun Proteomics for the Identification and Profiling of the Tear Proteome of Keratoconus Patients. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:12. [PMID: 35551575 PMCID: PMC9123485 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.5.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The qualitative approach followed in this study aims to obtain an extensive view of the keratoconus (KC) tear proteome, which could highlight proteins previously undetected and enlarge our knowledge of the disease's pathophysiology. Methods Twenty-five patients diagnosed with KC and 25 control subjects were studied in a prospective, cross-sectional study. KC screening examinations, including clinical and tomographic examinations, were performed on all participants. Tear samples were collected using Schirmer strips and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in a data-dependent workflow. A spectral count was used as a semiquantification tool. The tear proteomes of both groups were identified and profiled, and the functional interactions and biological characterization of differential proteins were analyzed using in silico tools. Results We identified a total of 232 proteins, of whom 133 were expressed in both groups’ samples; 41 were observed only in control samples and 58 were identified just in tears of patients with KC. A semiquantitative analysis showed the dysregulation of 17 proteins in the KC samples. An in silico analysis linked proteins only expressed in KC samples to oxidative stress, skin development, and apoptosis. The dysregulation of proteins involved in iron transport, inflammation, oxidative stress, and protease inhibition was observed in the semiquantitative results. Conclusions A shotgun analysis showed that the tear proteome of patients with KC differed from controls by more than one-third of the total proteins identified, highlighting the relationship of the proteins only expressed in KC tears with processes of cell death, oxidative damage, and inflammation. The underexpression of proteins involved in iron pathways might support the iron imbalance as a contributing factor to cellular damage and death in KC disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maite López-López
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Uxía Regueiro
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Susana Belén Bravo
- Proteomic Unit, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | - Carmen Pena
- Proteomic Unit, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Elío Díez-Feijoo
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Pablo Hervella
- Neuroimaging and Biotechnology Group (NOBEL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Isabel Lema
- Corneal Neurodegeneration Group (RENOIR), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Galician Institute of Ophthalmology (INGO), Conxo Provincial Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
de Barros MRM, Chakravarti S. Pathogenesis of keratoconus: NRF2-antioxidant, extracellular matrix and cellular dysfunctions. Exp Eye Res 2022; 219:109062. [PMID: 35385756 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a degenerative disease associated with cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) loss that causes gradual thinning and steepening of the cornea and loss of vision. Collagen cross linking with ultraviolet light treatment can strengthen the ECM and delay weakening of the cornea, but severe cases require corneal transplantation. KC is multifactorial and multigenic, but its pathophysiology is still an enigma. Multiple approaches are being pursued to elucidate the molecular changes that underlie the corneal phenotype to identify relevant genes for tailored candidate searches and to develop potential biomarkers and targets for therapeutic interventions. Recent proteomic and transcriptomic studies suggest dysregulations in oxidative stress, NRF2-regulated antioxidant programs, WNT-signaling, TGF-β, ECM and matrix metalloproteinases. This review aims to provide a broad update on the transcriptomic and proteomic studies of KC with a focus on findings that relate to oxidative stress, and dysregulations in cellular and extracellular matrix functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shukti Chakravarti
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NY, 10016, USA; Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NY, 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Alzheimer's Disease Seen through the Eye: Ocular Alterations and Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052486. [PMID: 35269629 PMCID: PMC8910735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is one of the main neurodegenerative diseases worldwide. Unfortunately, AD shares many similarities with other dementias at early stages, which impedes an accurate premortem diagnosis. Therefore, it is urgent to find biomarkers to allow for early diagnosis of the disease. There is increasing scientific evidence highlighting the similarities between the eye and other structures of the CNS, suggesting that knowledge acquired in eye research could be useful for research and diagnosis of AD. For example, the retina and optic nerve are considered part of the central nervous system, and their damage can result in retrograde and anterograde axon degeneration, as well as abnormal protein aggregation. In the anterior eye segment, the aqueous humor and tear film may be comparable to the cerebrospinal fluid. Both fluids are enriched with molecules that can be potential neurodegenerative biomarkers. Indeed, the pathophysiology of AD, characterized by cerebral deposits of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau protein, is also present in the eyes of AD patients, besides numerous structural and functional changes observed in the structure of the eyes. Therefore, all this evidence suggests that ocular changes have the potential to be used as either predictive values for AD assessment or as diagnostic tools.
Collapse
|
18
|
Lasagni Vitar RM, Bonelli F, Rama P, Ferrari G. Nutritional and Metabolic Imbalance in Keratoconus. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14040913. [PMID: 35215563 PMCID: PMC8876314 DOI: 10.3390/nu14040913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal degeneration characterized by structural changes consisting of progressive thinning and steepening of the cornea. These alterations result in biomechanical weakening and, clinically, in vision loss. While the etiology of KC has been the object of study for over a century, no single agent has been found. Recent reviews suggest that KC is a multifactorial disease that is associated with a wide variety of genetic and environmental factors. While KC is typically considered a disease of the cornea, associations with systemic conditions have been well described over the years. In particular, nutritional and metabolic imbalance, such as the redox status, hormones, metabolites, and micronutrients (vitamins and metal ions), can deeply influence KC initiation and progression. In this paper, we comprehensively review the different nutritional (vitamins and minerals) and metabolic (hormones and metabolites) factors that are altered in KC, discussing their possible implication in the pathophysiology of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Giulio Ferrari
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-26436186; Fax: +39-02-26436164
| |
Collapse
|