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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Yoshida T, Hagihara T, Uchida Y, Horiuchi Y, Sasaki K, Yamamoto T, Yamashita T, Goda Y, Saito Y, Yamaguchi T, Obika S, Yamamoto S, Inoue T. Introduction of sugar-modified nucleotides into CpG-containing antisense oligonucleotides inhibits TLR9 activation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11540. [PMID: 38773176 PMCID: PMC11109122 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61666-3] [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: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are synthetic single-stranded oligonucleotides that bind to RNAs through Watson-Crick base pairings. They are actively being developed as therapeutics for various human diseases. ASOs containing unmethylated deoxycytidylyl-deoxyguanosine dinucleotide (CpG) motifs are known to trigger innate immune responses via interaction with toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). However, the TLR9-stimulatory properties of ASOs, specifically those with lengths equal to or less than 20 nucleotides, phosphorothioate linkages, and the presence and arrangement of sugar-modified nucleotides-crucial elements for ASO therapeutics under development-have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we first established SY-ODN18, an 18-nucleotide phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide with sufficient TLR9-stimulatory activity. We demonstrated that an unmethylated CpG motif near its 5'-end was indispensable for TLR9 activation. Moreover, by utilizing various sugar-modified nucleotides, we systematically generated model ASOs, including gapmer, mixmer, and fully modified designs, in accordance with the structures of ASO therapeutics. Our results illustrated that introducing sugar-modified nucleotides in such designs significantly reduces TLR9-stimulatory activity, even without methylation of CpG motifs. These findings would be useful for drug designs on several types of ASOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tokuyuki Yoshida
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoko Hagihara
- Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., 2-3-30 Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka, Osaka, 536-8523, Japan
| | - Yasunori Uchida
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Horiuchi
- Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., 2-3-30 Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka, Osaka, 536-8523, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Sasaki
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Takenori Yamamoto
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Takuma Yamashita
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Goda
- National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Saito
- National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan
| | - Takao Yamaguchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi Obika
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Seiji Yamamoto
- Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., 2-3-30 Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka, Osaka, 536-8523, Japan.
| | - Takao Inoue
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan.
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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Danielpour D. Advances and Challenges in Targeting TGF-β Isoforms for Therapeutic Intervention of Cancer: A Mechanism-Based Perspective. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:533. [PMID: 38675493 PMCID: PMC11054419 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040533] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β family is a group of 25 kDa secretory cytokines, in mammals consisting of three dimeric isoforms (TGF-βs 1, 2, and 3), each encoded on a separate gene with unique regulatory elements. Each isoform plays unique, diverse, and pivotal roles in cell growth, survival, immune response, and differentiation. However, many researchers in the TGF-β field often mistakenly assume a uniform functionality among all three isoforms. Although TGF-βs are essential for normal development and many cellular and physiological processes, their dysregulated expression contributes significantly to various diseases. Notably, they drive conditions like fibrosis and tumor metastasis/progression. To counter these pathologies, extensive efforts have been directed towards targeting TGF-βs, resulting in the development of a range of TGF-β inhibitors. Despite some clinical success, these agents have yet to reach their full potential in the treatment of cancers. A significant challenge rests in effectively targeting TGF-βs' pathological functions while preserving their physiological roles. Many existing approaches collectively target all three isoforms, failing to target just the specific deregulated ones. Additionally, most strategies tackle the entire TGF-β signaling pathway instead of focusing on disease-specific components or preferentially targeting tumors. This review gives a unique historical overview of the TGF-β field often missed in other reviews and provides a current landscape of TGF-β research, emphasizing isoform-specific functions and disease implications. The review then delves into ongoing therapeutic strategies in cancer, stressing the need for more tools that target specific isoforms and disease-related pathway components, advocating mechanism-based and refined approaches to enhance the effectiveness of TGF-β-targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Danielpour
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; ; Tel.: +1-216-368-5670; Fax: +1-216-368-8919
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Institute of Urology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Ciociola EC, Fernandez E, Kaufmann M, Klifto MR. Future directions of glaucoma treatment: emerging gene, neuroprotection, nanomedicine, stem cell, and vascular therapies. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024; 35:89-96. [PMID: 37910173 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000001016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to summarize current research on novel gene, stem cell, neuroprotective, nanomedicine, and vascular therapies for glaucoma. RECENT FINDINGS Gene therapy using viral vectors and siRNA have been shown to reduce intraocular pressure by altering outflow and production of aqueous humor, to reduce postsurgical fibrosis with few adverse effects, and to increase retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival in animal studies. Stem cells may treat glaucoma by replacing or stimulating proliferation of trabecular meshwork cells, thus restoring outflow facility. Stem cells can also serve a neuroprotective effect by differentiating into RGCs or preventing RGC loss via secretion of growth factors. Other developing neuroprotective glaucoma treatments which can prevent RGC death include nicotinamide, the NT-501 implant which secretes ciliary neurotrophic factor, and a Fas-L inhibitor which are now being tested in clinical trials. Recent studies on vascular therapy for glaucoma have focused on the ability of Rho Kinase inhibitors and dronabinol to increase ocular blood flow. SUMMARY Many novel stem cell, gene, neuroprotective, nanomedicine, and vascular therapies have shown promise in preclinical studies, but further clinical trials are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy in human glaucomatous eyes. Although likely many years off, future glaucoma therapy may take a multifaceted approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Meredith R Klifto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Sharif NA. Gene therapies and gene product-based drug candidates for normalizing and preserving tissue functions in animal models of ocular hypertension and glaucoma. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 94:101218. [PMID: 37976898 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101218] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
More than 76 million people worldwide are afflicted with the neurodegenerative eye diseases described and grouped together as glaucoma. A common feature amongst the many forms of glaucoma is chronically elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) within the anterior chamber of the eye that physically damages the retina, optic nerve and parts of the brain connected with visual perception. The mediators of the contusing raised IOP responsible for such damage and loss of vision include locally released inflammatory agents, tissue remodeling enzymes and infiltrating immune cells which damage the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons and eventually kill a significant number of the RGCs. Additional culprits include genetic defects of the patient that involve aberrations in receptors, enzymes and/or endogenous ligands and possible over- or under-production of the latter. Other genetic abnormalities may include issues with signal transduction machinery within key cells of critical tissues in the front (e.g. trabecular meshwork [TM] and Schlemm's canal [SC]) and back of the eye (e.g. retinal ganglion cells and their axons). Genome-wide associated studies (GWAS) coupled with next generation sequencing have provided powerful linkage of certain gene defects and polymorphic variants to the onset and progression of diseases of the tissues involved in fluid dynamics in the TM and SC, and many retinal elements (lamina cribosa, optic nerve head) at the back of the eye which cause ocular hypertension (OHT) and glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON), respectively. Despite the availability of some drugs, fluid drainage microshunts and full surgical techniques to lower and control intraocular pressure, the major modifiable biomarker of open-angle and other forms of glaucoma, their side-effect profiles, less than optimum effectiveness and short duration of action present opportunities to clinically manage the glaucomas with next generation of treatments with high therapeutic indices, including gene therapies. Thus, identification, characterization and deployment of genetic data coupled with traditional drug discovery and novel gene replacement, gene editing and genetic engineering technologies may provide some solutions to the aforementioned problems. These aspects will be discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Eye-APC Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169856, Singapore; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, W2 1PG, UK; Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, WC1E 6BT, UK; Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, 77004, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, 169856, Singapore; Global Research & Development, Nanoscope Therapeutics Inc., Dallas, TX 75207, USA.
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Agarwal R, Iezhitsa I. Advances in targeting the extracellular matrix for glaucoma therapy: current updates. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:1217-1229. [PMID: 38069479 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2293748] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a well-recognized risk factor for development of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Ocular hypertension is associated with excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in trabecular meshwork (TM) resulting in increased aqueous outflow resistance and elevated IOP. Hence, therapeutic options targeting ECM remodeling in TM to lower IOP in glaucomatous eyes are of considerable importance. AREAS COVERED This paper discusses the complex process of ECM regulation in TM and explores promising therapeutic targets. The role of Transforming Growth Factor-β as a central player in ECM deposition in TM is discussed. We elaborate the key regulatory processes involved in its activation, release, signaling, and cross talk with other signaling pathways including Rho GTPase, Wnt, integrin, cytokines, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone. Further, we summarize the therapeutic agents that have been explored to target ECM dysregulation in TM. EXPERT OPINION Targeting molecular pathways to reduce ECM deposition and/or enhance its degradation are of considerable significance for IOP lowering. Challenges lie in pinpointing specific targets and designing drug delivery systems to precisely interact with pathologically active/inactive signaling. Recent advances in monoclonal antibodies, fusion molecules, and vectored nanotechnology offer potential solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Agarwal
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Sharif NA. Elevated Intraocular Pressure and Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy: Genes to Disease Mechanisms, Therapeutic Drugs, and Gene Therapies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:870. [PMID: 37375817 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article focuses on the pathogenesis of and genetic defects linked with chronic ocular hypertension (cOHT) and glaucoma. The latter ocular disease constitutes a group of ocular degenerative diseases whose hallmark features are damage to the optic nerve, apoptotic demise of retinal ganglion cells, disturbances within the brain regions involved in visual perception and considerable visual impairment that can lead to blindness. Even though a number of pharmaceuticals, surgical and device-based treatments already exist addressing cOHT associated with the most prevalent of the glaucoma types, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), they can be improved upon in terms of superior efficacy with reduced side-effects and with longer duration of activity. The linkage of disease pathology to certain genes via genome-wide associated studies are illuminating new approaches to finding novel treatment options for the aforementioned ocular disorders. Gene replacement, gene editing via CRISPR-Cas9, and the use of optogenetic technologies may replace traditional drug-based therapies and/or they may augment existing therapeutics for the treatment of cOHT and POAG in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Eye-APC Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA
- Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London W2 1PG, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Sharif NA. Recently Approved Drugs for Lowering and Controlling Intraocular Pressure to Reduce Vision Loss in Ocular Hypertensive and Glaucoma Patients. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:791. [PMID: 37375739 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Serious vision loss occurs in patients affected by chronically raised intraocular pressure (IOP), a characteristic of many forms of glaucoma where damage to the optic nerve components causes progressive degeneration of retinal and brain neurons involved in visual perception. While many risk factors abound and have been validated for this glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON), the major one is ocular hypertension (OHT), which results from the accumulation of excess aqueous humor (AQH) fluid in the anterior chamber of the eye. Millions around the world suffer from this asymptomatic and progressive degenerative eye disease. Since clinical evidence has revealed a strong correlation between the reduction in elevated IOP/OHT and GON progression, many drugs, devices, and surgical techniques have been developed to lower and control IOP. The constant quest for new pharmaceuticals and other modalities with superior therapeutic indices has recently yielded health authority-approved novel drugs with unique pharmacological signatures and mechanism(s) of action and AQH drainage microdevices for effectively and durably treating OHT. A unique nitric oxide-donating conjugate of latanoprost, an FP-receptor prostaglandin (PG; latanoprostene bunod), new rho kinase inhibitors (ripasudil; netarsudil), a novel non-PG EP2-receptor-selective agonist (omidenepag isopropyl), and a form of FP-receptor PG in a slow-release intracameral implant (Durysta) represent the additions to the pharmaceutical toolchest to mitigate the ravages of OHT. Despite these advances, early diagnosis of OHT and glaucoma still lags behind and would benefit from further concerted effort and attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Eye-APC Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 169856, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA
- Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London SW7 2BX, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Ren W, Duan S, Dai C, Xie C, Jiang L, Shi Y. Nanotechnology Lighting the Way for Gene Therapy in Ophthalmopathy: From Opportunities toward Applications. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083500. [PMID: 37110734 PMCID: PMC10141718 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary ophthalmopathy is a well-described threat to human visual health affecting millions of people. Gene therapy for ophthalmopathy has received widespread attention with the increasing understanding of pathogenic genes. Effective and safe delivery of accurate nucleic acid drugs (NADs) is the core of gene therapy. Efficient nanodelivery and nanomodification technologies, appropriate targeted genes, and the choice of drug injection methods are the guiding lights of gene therapy. Compared with traditional drugs, NADs can specifically change the expression of specific genes or restore the normal function of mutant genes. Nanodelivery carriers can improve targeting and nanomodification can improve the stability of NADs. Therefore, NADs, which can fundamentally solve pathogeny, hold great promise in the treatment of ophthalmopathy. This paper reviews the limitations of ocular disease treatment, discusses the classification of NADs in ophthalmology, reveals the delivery strategies of NADs to improve bioavailability, targeting, and stability, and summarizes the mechanisms of NADs in ophthalmopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Ren
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Health Management Center, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Suyang Duan
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Chao Dai
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Health Management Center, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Chunbao Xie
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Lingxi Jiang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Health Management Center, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Health Management Center, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
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RNA-targeting strategies as a platform for ocular gene therapy. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 92:101110. [PMID: 35840489 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101110] [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: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Genetic medicine is offering hope as new therapies are emerging for many previously untreatable diseases. The eye is at the forefront of these advances, as exemplified by the approval of Luxturna® by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) in 2017 for the treatment of one form of Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), an inherited blindness. Luxturna® was also the first in vivo human gene therapy to gain US FDA approval. Numerous gene therapy clinical trials are ongoing for other eye diseases, and novel delivery systems, discovery of new drug targets and emerging technologies are currently driving the field forward. Targeting RNA, in particular, is an attractive therapeutic strategy for genetic disease that may have safety advantages over alternative approaches by avoiding permanent changes in the genome. In this regard, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) and RNA interference (RNAi) are the currently popular strategies for developing RNA-targeted therapeutics. Enthusiasm has been further fuelled by the emergence of clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR associated (Cas) systems that allow targeted manipulation of nucleic acids. RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas systems now provide a novel way to develop RNA-targeted therapeutics and may provide superior efficiency and specificity to existing technologies. In addition, RNA base editing technologies using CRISPR-Cas and other modalities also enable precise alteration of single nucleotides. In this review, we showcase advances made by RNA-targeting systems for ocular disease, discuss applications of ASO and RNAi technologies, highlight emerging CRISPR-Cas systems and consider the implications of RNA-targeting therapeutics in the development of future drugs to treat eye disease.
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Kurysheva NI, Kim VY, Kim VE, Pliyeva HM. [The value of lamina cribrosa in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. Remodeling of lamina cribrosa collagen and approaches to its therapeutic treatment]. Vestn Oftalmol 2023; 139:121-126. [PMID: 37638582 DOI: 10.17116/oftalma2023139041121] [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] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Among the first structures suffering damage with an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) and in early stage of glaucoma are the lamina cribrosa (LC) and peripapillary sclera (ppScl). Changes in these structures occur at the molecular and cellular level. Extracellular matrix (ECM) is the basis of connective tissue, provides mechanical support for the cells, facilitates intercellular interactions and transport of chemicals, including in LC and ppScl. Mechanical stress causes remodeling and disorganization of the ECM, which leads to changes in the structure of the tissue itself, an increase in its rigidity and a decrease in elasticity. Taking into account the molecular and cellular mechanisms of damage to LC and ppScl, various researchers have developed strategies and tactics for therapeutic intervention on these structures, contributing to a decrease in ECM secretion and, as a consequence, suspension of their remodeling. These approaches may in the future form the basis for the treatment of glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- N I Kurysheva
- Medical Biological University of Innovations and Continuing Education of the State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Federal Scientific and Clinical Center of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - V Yu Kim
- Medical Biological University of Innovations and Continuing Education of the State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - V E Kim
- Medical Biological University of Innovations and Continuing Education of the State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - H M Pliyeva
- Medical Biological University of Innovations and Continuing Education of the State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
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Chan MKK, Chan ELY, Ji ZZ, Chan ASW, Li C, Leung KT, To KF, Tang PMK. Transforming growth factor-β signaling: from tumor microenvironment to anticancer therapy. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:316-343. [PMID: 37205317 PMCID: PMC10185444 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is an important pathway for promoting the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, including cancer. The roles of TGF-β signaling are heterogeneous and versatile in cancer development and progression, both anticancer and protumoral actions are reported. Interestingly, increasing evidence suggests that TGF-β enhances disease progression and drug resistance via immune-modulatory actions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of solid tumors. A better understanding of its regulatory mechanisms in the TME at the molecular level can facilitate the development of precision medicine to block the protumoral actions of TGF-β in the TME. Here, the latest information about the regulatory mechanisms and translational research of TGF-β signaling in the TME for therapeutic development had been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Kam-Kwan Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Emily Lok-Yiu Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Zoey Zeyuan Ji
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Alex Siu-Wing Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Kam-Tong Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Ka-Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Correspondence: Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang, Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China.
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13
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Tie Y, Tang F, Peng D, Zhang Y, Shi H. TGF-beta signal transduction: biology, function and therapy for diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:45. [PMID: 36534225 PMCID: PMC9761655 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00109-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is a crucial cytokine that get increasing concern in recent years to treat human diseases. This signal controls multiple cellular responses during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis through canonical and/or noncanonical signaling pathways. Dysregulated TGF-β signal plays an essential role in contributing to fibrosis via promoting the extracellular matrix deposition, and tumor progression via inducing the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, immunosuppression, and neovascularization at the advanced stage of cancer. Besides, the dysregulation of TGF-beta signal also involves in other human diseases including anemia, inflammatory disease, wound healing and cardiovascular disease et al. Therefore, this signal is proposed to be a promising therapeutic target in these diseases. Recently, multiple strategies targeting TGF-β signals including neutralizing antibodies, ligand traps, small-molecule receptor kinase inhibitors targeting ligand-receptor signaling pathways, antisense oligonucleotides to disrupt the production of TGF-β at the transcriptional level, and vaccine are under evaluation of safety and efficacy for the forementioned diseases in clinical trials. Here, in this review, we firstly summarized the biology and function of TGF-β in physiological and pathological conditions, elaborated TGF-β associated signal transduction. And then, we analyzed the current advances in preclinical studies and clinical strategies targeting TGF-β signal transduction to treat diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Tie
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Fan Tang
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China ,grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dandan Peng
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Ye Zhang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021 China
| | - Huashan Shi
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
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Selective Activation of the Wnt-Signaling Pathway as a Novel Therapy for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy and Other Retinal Vascular Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112476. [PMID: 36432666 PMCID: PMC9697247 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112476] [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] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ischemia, often associated with various disorders such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), retinal vein occlusion, glaucoma, optic neuropathies, stroke, and other retinopathies, is a major cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. As proper blood supply to the retina is critical to maintain its high metabolic demand, any impediment to blood flow can lead to a decrease in oxygen supply, resulting in retinal ischemia. In the pathogenesis of DR, including diabetic macular edema (DME), elevated blood glucose leads to blood-retina barrier (BRB) disruptions, vascular leakage, and capillary occlusion and dropouts, causing insufficient delivery of oxygen to the retina, and ultimately resulting in visual impairment. Other potential causes of DR include neuronal dysfunction in the absence of vascular defect, genetic, and environmental factors. The exact disease progression remains unclear and varies from patient to patient. Vascular leakage leading to edema clearly links to visual impairment and remains an important target for therapy. Despite recent advances in the treatment of DME and DR with anti-VEGFs, effective therapies with new mechanisms of action to address current treatment limitations regarding vessel regeneration and reperfusion of ischemic retinal areas are still needed. The Wnt signaling pathway plays a critical role in proper vascular development and maintenance in the retina, and thus provides a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of diabetic and other retinopathies. In this review, we summarize the potential of this pathway to address treatment gaps with current therapies, its promise as a novel and potentially disease modifying therapy for patients with DR and opportunities in other retinal vascular diseases.
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15
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Faber H, Guggenberger V, Voykov B. XEN45 Gelstent Implantation in the Treatment of Glaucoma Secondary to Fuchs Uveitis Syndrome. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2022; 30:1678-1685. [PMID: 34124988 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1934035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evaluation of treatment efficacy of XEN45 gelstent for glaucoma secondary to Fuchs uveitis syndrome (FUS). METHODS This retrospective case series evaluated patients with glaucoma secondary to FUS, who underwent XEN45 implantation. Complete success was defined as IOP lowering of ≥ 20% and cutoff IOP at ≤18 mmHg. Success was qualified if additional glaucoma medication was necessary. Additional glaucoma surgery except for needling and open bleb revision was regarded as failure. RESULTS Twelve eyes of 12 patients were included. Qualified and complete success rates were 50% after one year (n = 10). Qualified success was achieved in 66.6% of patients with 33.3% of patients achieving complete success after two years (n = 6). CONCLUSIONS XEN45 implantation had some success in the treatment of glaucoma secondary to FUS, but needling was frequently necessary to improve outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Faber
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Bogomil Voykov
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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16
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Chan MKK, Chung JYF, Tang PCT, Chan ASW, Ho JYY, Lin TPT, Chen J, Leung KT, To KF, Lan HY, Tang PMK. TGF-β signaling networks in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2022; 550:215925. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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17
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Hachana S, Larrivée B. TGF-β Superfamily Signaling in the Eye: Implications for Ocular Pathologies. Cells 2022; 11:2336. [PMID: 35954181 PMCID: PMC9367584 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β signaling pathway plays a crucial role in several key aspects of development and tissue homeostasis. TGF-β ligands and their mediators have been shown to be important regulators of ocular physiology and their dysregulation has been described in several eye pathologies. TGF-β signaling participates in regulating several key developmental processes in the eye, including angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Inadequate TGF-β signaling has been associated with defective angiogenesis, vascular barrier function, unfavorable inflammatory responses, and tissue fibrosis. In addition, experimental models of corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, glaucoma, or corneal injury suggest that aberrant TGF-β signaling may contribute to the pathological features of these conditions, showing the potential of modulating TGF-β signaling to treat eye diseases. This review highlights the key roles of TGF-β family members in ocular physiology and in eye diseases, and reviews approaches targeting the TGF-β signaling as potential treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Hachana
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
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18
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Strickland RG, Garner MA, Gross AK, Girkin CA. Remodeling of the Lamina Cribrosa: Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Approaches for Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158068. [PMID: 35897642 PMCID: PMC9329908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucomatous optic neuropathy is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. The chronic disease is characterized by optic nerve degeneration and vision field loss. The reduction of intraocular pressure remains the only proven glaucoma treatment, but it does not prevent further neurodegeneration. There are three major classes of cells in the human optic nerve head (ONH): lamina cribrosa (LC) cells, glial cells, and scleral fibroblasts. These cells provide support for the LC which is essential to maintain healthy retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons. All these cells demonstrate responses to glaucomatous conditions through extracellular matrix remodeling. Therefore, investigations into alternative therapies that alter the characteristic remodeling response of the ONH to enhance the survival of RGC axons are prevalent. Understanding major remodeling pathways in the ONH may be key to developing targeted therapies that reduce deleterious remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan G. Strickland
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (R.G.S.); (M.A.G.); (A.K.G.)
| | - Mary Anne Garner
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (R.G.S.); (M.A.G.); (A.K.G.)
| | - Alecia K. Gross
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA; (R.G.S.); (M.A.G.); (A.K.G.)
| | - Christopher A. Girkin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-205-325-8620
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19
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Sharif NA. Degeneration of retina-brain components and connections in glaucoma: Disease causation and treatment options for eyesight preservation. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 3:100037. [PMID: 36685768 PMCID: PMC9846481 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2022.100037] [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] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Eyesight is the most important of our sensory systems for optimal daily activities and overall survival. Patients who experience visual impairment due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are often those afflicted with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) which slowly robs them of their vision unless treatment is administered soon after diagnosis. The hallmark features of POAG and other forms of glaucoma are damaged optic nerve, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and atrophied RGC axons connecting to various brain regions associated with receipt of visual input from the eyes and eventual decoding and perception of images in the visual cortex. Even though increased IOP is the major risk factor for POAG, the disease is caused by many injurious chemicals and events that progress slowly within all components of the eye-brain visual axis. Lowering of IOP mitigates the damage to some extent with existing drugs, surgical and device implantation therapeutic interventions. However, since multifactorial degenerative processes occur during aging and with glaucomatous optic neuropathy, different forms of neuroprotective, nutraceutical and electroceutical regenerative and revitalizing agents and processes are being considered to combat these eye-brain disorders. These aspects form the basis of this short review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A. Sharif
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore,Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA,Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, St. Mary's Campus, London, UK,Department of Pharmacy Sciences, School of School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA,Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Incorporated, 6401 Hollis Street (Suite #125), Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
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20
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Ang GCK, Gupta A, Surana U, Yap SXL, Taneja R. Potential Therapeutics Targeting Upstream Regulators and Interactors of EHMT1/2. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122855. [PMID: 35740522 PMCID: PMC9221123 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122855] [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] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The expression of Euchromatin histone lysine methyltransferase 1 and 2 (EHMT1/2) is deregulated in many cancers. Most studies thus far have focused on the downstream targets and pathways regulated by EHMTs. However, the mechanisms that lead to their deregulated expression, and the interacting proteins that could impact EHMT activity are not well understood. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the upstream regulators and the interactors that provide alternative therapeutic approaches to tackle EHMT driven malignancies. Abstract Euchromatin histone lysine methyltransferases (EHMTs) are epigenetic regulators responsible for silencing gene transcription by catalyzing H3K9 dimethylation. Dysregulation of EHMT1/2 has been reported in multiple cancers and is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Although substantial insights have been gleaned into the downstream targets and pathways regulated by EHMT1/2, few studies have uncovered mechanisms responsible for their dysregulated expression. Moreover, EHMT1/2 interacting partners, which can influence their function and, therefore, the expression of target genes, have not been extensively explored. As none of the currently available EHMT inhibitors have made it past clinical trials, understanding upstream regulators and EHMT protein complexes may provide unique insights into novel therapeutic avenues in EHMT-overexpressing cancers. Here, we review our current understanding of the regulators and interacting partners of EHMTs. We also discuss available therapeutic drugs that target the upstream regulators and binding partners of EHMTs and could potentially modulate EHMT function in cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Chin Khye Ang
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program, Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore; (G.C.K.A.); (A.G.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore;
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Amogh Gupta
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program, Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore; (G.C.K.A.); (A.G.)
| | - Uttam Surana
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore;
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Shirlyn Xue Ling Yap
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore;
| | - Reshma Taneja
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program, Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore; (G.C.K.A.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-(65)-153-236; Fax: +65-(67)-788-161
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21
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Marolo P, Reibaldi M, Fallico M, Maugeri A, Barchitta M, Agodi A, Parisi G, Caselgrandi P, Ventre L, Ahmed IIK. Reintervention rate in glaucoma filtering surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Ophthalmol 2022; 32:2515-2531. [PMID: 35473447 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221093828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Reintervention rate is an important factor impacting on patients, surgeons, and society. To date, only a few studies have focused on this topic. For this reason, a systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to assess the reintervention rate after glaucoma filtering surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS Prospective studies reporting the reintervention rate after glaucoma filtering surgery and with at least 12 months of follow-up were systematically searched on PubMed, Medline and Embase databases. The primary outcome was the total reintervention rate following surgery. Secondary outcomes were: the rate of manipulation, in-clinic and in-operating room reintervention; the reintervention rate for intraocular pressure (IOP) control and for complications; demographic, clinical and surgical variables associated with reintervention rate. RESULTS Ninety-three studies with a total of 8345 eyes were eligible. The total reintervention rate was 1.84 (95% CI 1.57-2.13), with a lower rate for Baerveldt (0.53, 95% CI 0.29-0.83) and Preserflo (0.60, 95% CI 0.15-1.29), and a higher rate for Xen (4.26, 95% CI 2.59-6.31). The manipulation rate was 0.99 (95% CI 0.77-1.23), the in-clinic reintervention rate was 0.08 (95% CI 0.05-0.12) and the in-operating room reintervention rate was 0.28 (95% CI 0.22-0.35). The reintervention rate for IOP control was 1.26 (95% CI 1.04-1.51) and the reintervention rate for complications was 0.27 (95% CI 0.21-0.35). CONCLUSIONS All types of surgery presented a total reintervention rate similar to the overall findings, except studies on Baerveldt and Preserflo Microshunt, with a lower rate, and Xen, with a higher rate. None of the variables evaluated were found to be directly associated with the explored outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Marolo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, 60265University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, 60265University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, 9298University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Maugeri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", 9298University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Martina Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", 9298University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", 9298University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Parisi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, 60265University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Caselgrandi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, 60265University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Ventre
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic Section, 60265University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Iqbal Ike K Ahmed
- Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Emerging Evidence of Noncoding RNAs in Bleb Scarring after Glaucoma Filtration Surgery. Cells 2022; 11:cells11081301. [PMID: 35455980 PMCID: PMC9029189 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081301] [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] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To conduct a narrative review of research articles on the potential anti- and pro-fibrotic mechanisms of noncoding RNAs following glaucoma filtration surgery. Methods: Keyword searches of PubMed, and Medline databases were conducted for articles discussing post-glaucoma filtration surgeries and noncoding RNA. Additional manual searches of reference lists of primary articles were performed. Results: Fifteen primary research articles were identified. Four of the included papers used microarrays and qRT-PCR to identify up- or down-regulated microRNA (miRNA, miR) profiles and direct further study, with the remainder focusing on miRNAs or long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) based on previous work in other organs or disease processes. The results of the reviewed papers identified miR-26a, -29b, -139, -155, and -200a as having anti-fibrotic effects. In contrast, miRs-200b and -216b may play pro-fibrotic roles in filtration surgery fibrosis. lncRNAs including H19, NR003923, and 00028 have demonstrated pro-fibrotic effects. Conclusions: Noncoding RNAs including miRNAs and lncRNAs are emerging and promising therapeutic targets in the prevention of post-glaucoma filtration surgery fibrosis.
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23
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Antisense RNA Therapeutics: A Brief Overview. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2022; 2434:33-49. [PMID: 35213008 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2010-6_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid therapeutics is a growing field aiming to treat human conditions that has gained special attention due to the successful development of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Another type of nucleic acid therapeutics is antisense oligonucleotides, versatile tools that can be used in multiple ways to target pre-mRNA and mRNA. While some years ago these molecules were just considered a useful research tool and a curiosity in the clinical market, this has rapidly changed. These molecules are promising strategies for personalized treatments for rare genetic diseases and they are in development for very common disorders too. In this chapter, we provide a brief description of the different mechanisms of action of these RNA therapeutic molecules, with clear examples at preclinical and clinical stages.
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24
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Maruyama R, Nguyen Q, Roshmi RR, Touznik A, Yokota T. Allele-Selective Locked Nucleic Acid Gapmers for the Treatment of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva Knock Down the Pathogenic ACVR1 R206H Transcript and Inhibit Osteogenic Differentiation. Nucleic Acid Ther 2022; 32:185-193. [PMID: 35085461 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2021.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by episodic heterotopic ossification. The median life span of people with this disorder is ∼40 years, and currently, there is no effective treatment available. More than 95% of cases are caused by a recurrent mutation (c.617G>A; R206H) of Activin A receptor, type I (ACVR1)/Activin receptor-like kinase-2 (ALK2), a bone morphogenetic protein type I receptor. The mutation renders ACVR1 responsive to activin A, which does not activate wild-type ACVR1. Ectopic activation of ACVR1R206H by activin A induces heterotopic ossification. Since ACVR1R206H is a hyperactive receptor, a promising therapeutic strategy is to decrease the activity of mutated ACVR1. To accomplish this goal, we developed locked nucleic acid (LNA) gapmers. These are short DNA oligonucleotides with LNA modification at both ends. They induce targeted mRNA degradation and specific knockdown of gene expression. We demonstrated that some of these gapmers efficiently knocked down ACVR1R206H expression at RNA levels, while ACVR1WT was mostly unaffected in human FOP fibroblasts. Also, the gapmers suppressed osteogenic differentiation induced by ACVR1R206H and activin A. These gapmers may be promising drug candidates for FOP. This novel strategy will also pave the way for antisense-mediated therapy of other autosomal dominant disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rika Maruyama
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Quynh Nguyen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Rohini Roy Roshmi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Aleksander Touznik
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,The Friends of Garrett Cumming Research & Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, Edmonton, Canada
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25
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Moumné L, Marie AC, Crouvezier N. Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: From Discovery and Development to Patentability. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020260. [PMID: 35213992 PMCID: PMC8876811 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the first proof of concept of using small nucleic acids to modulate gene expression, a long period of maturation led, at the end of the last century, to the first marketing authorization of an oligonucleotide-based therapy. Since then, 12 more compounds have hit the market and many more are in late clinical development. Many companies were founded to exploit their therapeutic potential and Big Pharma was quickly convinced that oligonucleotides could represent credible alternatives to protein-targeting products. Many technologies have been developed to improve oligonucleotide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Initially targeting rare diseases and niche markets, oligonucleotides are now able to benefit large patient populations. However, there is still room for oligonucleotide improvement and further breakthroughs are likely to emerge in the coming years. In this review we provide an overview of therapeutic oligonucleotides. We present in particular the different types of oligonucleotides and their modes of action, the tissues they target and the routes by which they are administered to patients, and the therapeutic areas in which they are used. In addition, we present the different ways of patenting oligonucleotides. We finally discuss future challenges and opportunities for this drug-discovery platform.
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Yasuhara H, Yoshida T, Sasaki K, Obika S, Inoue T. Reduction of Off-Target Effects of Gapmer Antisense Oligonucleotides by Oligonucleotide Extension. Mol Diagn Ther 2022; 26:117-127. [PMID: 34994962 PMCID: PMC8766371 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00573-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Aim Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) has the potential to induce off-target effects by inadvertent binding of ASOs to unintended RNAs that have a sequence similar to the target RNA. In the present study, we focused on the association between oligonucleotide length and off-target effects. Oligonucleotide extension is assumed to have bilateral effects on hybridization-dependent changes in gene expression, i.e., one is the decrease of off-target effects based on the reduced number of off-target candidate genes with perfect matches, and the other is the increase of off-target effects based on the increased binding affinity between the ASO and the complementary RNAs that leads to better tolerability for mismatches. Methods To determine the effects of oligonucleotide extension of gapmer ASOs on off-target effects, an extensive microarray analysis was performed using human cells treated with a 14-mer gapmer ASO and the extended 18-mer derivatives with the same core 14-mer region. Results and Discussion Our data indicated that change in gene expression in the cells treated with 18-mer ASOs was significantly smaller than those with a 14-mer ASO, showing the decrease of off-target effects by oligonucleotide extension. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40291-021-00573-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenori Yasuhara
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tokuyuki Yoshida
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Sasaki
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Satoshi Obika
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Takao Inoue
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
- Division of Molecular Target and Gene Therapy Products, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan.
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Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signalling controls multiple cell fate decisions during development and tissue homeostasis; hence, dysregulation of this pathway can drive several diseases, including cancer. Here we discuss the influence that TGFβ exerts on the composition and behaviour of different cell populations present in the tumour immune microenvironment, and the context-dependent functions of this cytokine in suppressing or promoting cancer. During homeostasis, TGFβ controls inflammatory responses triggered by exposure to the outside milieu in barrier tissues. Lack of TGFβ exacerbates inflammation, leading to tissue damage and cellular transformation. In contrast, as tumours progress, they leverage TGFβ to drive an unrestrained wound-healing programme in cancer-associated fibroblasts, as well as to suppress the adaptive immune system and the innate immune system. In consonance with this key role in reprogramming the tumour microenvironment, emerging data demonstrate that TGFβ-inhibitory therapies can restore cancer immunity. Indeed, this approach can synergize with other immunotherapies - including immune checkpoint blockade - to unleash robust antitumour immune responses in preclinical cancer models. Despite initial challenges in clinical translation, these findings have sparked the development of multiple therapeutic strategies that inhibit the TGFβ pathway, many of which are currently in clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele V F Tauriello
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Elena Sancho
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Batlle
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain.
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain.
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Lee SY, Chae MK, Yoon JS, Kim CY. The Effect of CHIR 99021, a Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β Inhibitor, on Transforming Growth Factor β-Induced Tenon Fibrosis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:25. [PMID: 34940783 PMCID: PMC8711002 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.15.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the effect of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibition on the fibrosis of human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) induced by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Methods Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression levels of molecules associated with the fibrosis of HTFs by TGF-β (fibronectin, collagen Iα, and α-smooth muscle actin) and GSK-3β. The levels of phosphorylated Smad2 and Smad3 were also analyzed in the presence of the GSK-3β inhibitor CHIR 99021. The wound healing assay was performed to determine the effect of CHIR 99021 on the migration of HTFs. All experiments were conducted using primary cultured HTFs or human tenon tissues obtained from normal subjects and patients with glaucoma. Results Treatment with TGF-β resulted in an increase in the levels of molecules associated with the fibrosis of HTFs. The expression levels of these molecules were higher in the tenon tissues obtained from patients with glaucoma than those from normal subjects. When the HTFs were treated with TGF-β, a significant increase in the active form of GSK-3β (Y216) was observed. A significant decrease in the active form of GSK-3β and molecules associated with fibrosis by TGF-β was noted in HTFs treated with CHIR 99021. CHIR 99021 treatment reduced the phosphorylated Smad2/Smad2 and phosphorylated Smad3/Smad3 ratios in HTFs and attenuated HTF migration. Conclusions Our results demonstrated the effect of GSK-3β inhibition on the regulation of TGF-β–mediated fibrosis of HTFs, suggesting GSK-3β to be a potential target for maintaining bleb function after glaucoma filtration surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Yeop Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Ophthalmology, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyoung Chae
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Sook Yoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Yun Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Hospital, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Ong CH, Tham CL, Harith HH, Firdaus N, Israf DA. TGF-β-induced fibrosis: A review on the underlying mechanism and potential therapeutic strategies. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 911:174510. [PMID: 34560077 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) plays multiple homeostatic roles in the regulation of inflammation, proliferation, differentiation and would healing of various tissues. Many studies have demonstrated that TGF-β stimulates activation and proliferation of fibroblasts, which result in extracellular matrix deposition. Its increased expression can result in many fibrotic diseases, and the level of expression is often correlated with disease severity. On this basis, inhibition of TGF-β and its activity has great therapeutic potential for the treatment of various fibrotic diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, renal fibrosis, systemic sclerosis and etc. By understanding the molecular mechanism of TGF-β signaling and activity, researchers were able to develop different strategies in order to modulate the activity of TGF-β. Antisense oligonucleotide was developed to target the mRNA of TGF-β to inhibit its expression. There are also neutralizing monoclonal antibodies that can target the TGF-β ligands or αvβ6 integrin to prevent binding to receptor or activation of latent TGF-β respectively. Soluble TGF-β receptors act as ligand traps that competitively bind to the TGF-β ligands. Many small molecule inhibitors have been developed to inhibit the TGF-β receptor at its cytoplasmic domain and also intracellular signaling molecules. Peptide aptamer technology has been used to target downstream TGF-β signaling. Here, we summarize the underlying mechanism of TGF-β-induced fibrosis and also review various strategies of inhibiting TGF-β in both preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Hao Ong
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Chau Ling Tham
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Hanis Hazeera Harith
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Nazmi Firdaus
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Daud Ahmad Israf
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43300, Malaysia.
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Sharif NA. Therapeutic Drugs and Devices for Tackling Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma, and Need for Neuroprotection and Cytoprotective Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:729249. [PMID: 34603044 PMCID: PMC8484316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.729249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the optic nerve and the death of associated retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), also known as glaucoma, is responsible for visual impairment and blindness in millions of people worldwide. The ocular hypertension (OHT) and the deleterious mechanical forces it exerts at the back of the eye, at the level of the optic nerve head/optic disc and lamina cribosa, is the only modifiable risk factor associated with glaucoma that can be treated. The elevated IOP occurs due to the inability of accumulated aqueous humor (AQH) to egress from the anterior chamber of the eye due to occlusion of the major outflow pathway, the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm’s canal (SC). Several different classes of pharmaceutical agents, surgical techniques and implantable devices have been developed to lower and control IOP. First-line drugs to promote AQH outflow via the uveoscleral outflow pathway include FP-receptor prostaglandin (PG) agonists (e.g., latanoprost, travoprost and tafluprost) and a novel non-PG EP2-receptor agonist (omidenepag isopropyl, Eybelis®). TM/SC outflow enhancing drugs are also effective ocular hypotensive agents (e.g., rho kinase inhibitors like ripasudil and netarsudil; and latanoprostene bunod, a conjugate of a nitric oxide donor and latanoprost). One of the most effective anterior chamber AQH microshunt devices is the Preserflo® microshunt which can lower IOP down to 10–13 mmHg. Other IOP-lowering drugs and devices on the horizon will be also discussed. Additionally, since elevated IOP is only one of many risk factors for development of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, a treatise of the role of inflammatory neurodegeneration of the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells and appropriate neuroprotective strategies to mitigate this disease will also be reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, CA, United States
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Pandey M, Ojha D, Bansal S, Rode AB, Chawla G. From bench side to clinic: Potential and challenges of RNA vaccines and therapeutics in infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 81:101003. [PMID: 34332771 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The functional and structural versatility of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) makes them ideal candidates for overcoming the limitations imposed by small molecule-based drugs. Hence, RNA-based biopharmaceuticals such as messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNA mimics, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs), aptamers, riboswitches, and CRISPR-Cas9 are emerging as vital tools for the treatment and prophylaxis of many infectious diseases. Some of the major challenges to overcome in the area of RNA-based therapeutics have been the instability of single-stranded RNAs, delivery to the diseased cell, and immunogenicity. However, recent advancements in the delivery systems of in vitro transcribed mRNA and chemical modifications for protection against nucleases and reducing the toxicity of RNA have facilitated the entry of several exogenous RNAs into clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, their production, delivery, current advancements, and future translational potential in treating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Pandey
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Divya Ojha
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sakshi Bansal
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Ambadas B Rode
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chawla
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
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Diebold Y, García-Posadas L. Is the Conjunctiva a Potential Target for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products? Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081140. [PMID: 34452098 PMCID: PMC8402183 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The conjunctiva is a complex ocular tissue that provides mechanical, sensory, and immune protection for the ocular surface. It is affected by many diseases through different pathological mechanisms. If a disease is not treated and conjunctival function is not fully restored, the whole ocular surface and, therefore, sight is at risk. Different therapeutic approaches have been proposed, but there are still unsolved conjunctival alterations that require more sophisticated therapeutic options. Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) comprise a wide range of products that includes cell therapy, tissue engineering, and gene therapy. To the best of our knowledge, there is no commercialized ATMP specifically for conjunctival treatment yet. However, the conjunctiva can be a potential target for ATMPs for different reasons. In this review, we provide an overview of the advances in experimental phases of potential ATMPs that primarily target the conjunctiva. Important advances have been achieved through the techniques of cell therapy and tissue engineering, whereas the use of gene therapy in the conjunctiva is still marginal. Undoubtedly, future research in this field will lead to achieving commercially available ATMPs for the conjunctiva, which may provide better treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Diebold
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura García-Posadas
- Ocular Surface Group, Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada (IOBA), Universidad de Valladolid, 47011 Valladolid, Spain;
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Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (AON) are synthetic single-stranded fragments of nucleic acids that bind to a specific complementary messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence and change the final gene product. AON were initially approved for treating cytomegalovirus retinitis and have shown promise in treating Mendelian systemic disease. AON are currently being investigated as a treatment modality for many ophthalmic diseases, including inherited retinal disorders (IRD), inflammatory response and wound healing after glaucoma surgery, and macular degeneration. They provide a possible solution to gene therapy for IRD that are not candidates for adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery. This chapter outlines the historical background of AON and reviews clinical applications and ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ferenchak
- Inherited Retinal Disorders Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Iris Deitch
- Inherited Retinal Disorders Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Huckfeldt
- Inherited Retinal Disorders Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Antisense technology: an overview and prospectus. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 20:427-453. [PMID: 33762737 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-021-00162-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 262] [Impact Index Per Article: 87.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antisense technology is now beginning to deliver on its promise to treat diseases by targeting RNA. Nine single-stranded antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs representing four chemical classes, two mechanisms of action and four routes of administration have been approved for commercial use, including the first RNA-targeted drug to be a major commercial success, nusinersen. Although all the approved drugs are for use in patients with rare diseases, many of the ASOs in late- and middle-stage clinical development are intended to treat patients with very common diseases. ASOs in development are showing substantial improvements in potency and performance based on advances in medicinal chemistry, understanding of molecular mechanisms and targeted delivery. Moreover, the ASOs in development include additional mechanisms of action and routes of administration such as aerosol and oral formulations. Here, we describe the key technological advances that have enabled this progress and discuss recent clinical trials that illustrate the impact of these advances on the performance of ASOs in a wide range of therapeutic applications. We also consider strategic issues such as target selection and provide perspectives on the future of the field.
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Komáromy AM, Koehl KL, Park SA. Looking into the future: Gene and cell therapies for glaucoma. Vet Ophthalmol 2021; 24 Suppl 1:16-33. [PMID: 33411993 PMCID: PMC7979454 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a complex group of optic neuropathies that affects both humans and animals. Intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation is a major risk factor that results in the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Currently, lowering IOP by medical and surgical methods is the only approved treatment for primary glaucoma, but there is no cure, and vision loss often progresses despite therapy. Recent technologic advances provide us with a better understanding of disease mechanisms and risk factors; this will permit earlier diagnosis of glaucoma and initiation of therapy sooner and more effectively. Gene and cell therapies are well suited to target these mechanisms specifically with the potential to achieve a lasting therapeutic effect. Much progress has been made in laboratory settings to develop these novel therapies for the eye. Gene and cell therapies have already been translated into clinical application for some inherited retinal dystrophies and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Except for the intravitreal application of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) by encapsulated cell technology for RGC neuroprotection, there has been no other clinical translation of gene and cell therapies for glaucoma so far. Possible application of gene and cell therapies consists of long-term IOP control via increased aqueous humor drainage, including inhibition of fibrosis following filtration surgery, RGC neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, modification of ocular biomechanics for improved IOP tolerance, and inhibition of inflammation and neovascularization to prevent the development of some forms of secondary glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- András M. Komáromy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kristin L. Koehl
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Shin Ae Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Gupta A, Kafetzis KN, Tagalakis AD, Yu-Wai-Man C. RNA therapeutics in ophthalmology - translation to clinical trials. Exp Eye Res 2021; 205:108482. [PMID: 33548256 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The use of RNA interference technology has proven to inhibit the expression of many target genes involved in the underlying pathogenesis of several diseases affecting various systems. First established in in vitro and later in animal studies, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapeutics are now entering clinical trials with the potential of clinical translation to patients. Gene-silencing therapies have demonstrated promising responses in ocular disorders, predominantly due to the structure of the eye being a closed and compartmentalised organ. However, although the efficacy of such treatments has been observed in both preclinical studies and clinical trials, there are issues pertaining to the use of these drugs which require more extensive research with regards to the delivery and stability of siRNAs and ASOs. This would improve their use for long-term treatment regimens and alleviate the difficulties experienced by patients with ocular diseases. This review provides a detailed insight into the recent developments and clinical trials that have been conducted for several gene-silencing therapies, including ISTH0036, SYL040012, SYL1001, PF-04523655, Sirna-027, QR-110, QR-1123, QR-421a and IONIS-FB-LRX in glaucoma, dry eye disease, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema and various inherited retinal diseases. Our aim is to explore the potential of these drugs whilst evaluating their associated advantages and disadvantages, and to discuss the future translation of RNA therapeutics in ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aanchal Gupta
- King's College London, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom; Department of Ophthalmology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Cynthia Yu-Wai-Man
- King's College London, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom; Department of Ophthalmology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, United Kingdom.
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Crooke ST, Liang XH, Baker BF, Crooke RM. Antisense technology: A review. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100416. [PMID: 33600796 PMCID: PMC8005817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisense technology is beginning to deliver on the broad promise of the technology. Ten RNA-targeted drugs including eight single-strand antisense drugs (ASOs) and two double-strand ASOs (siRNAs) have now been approved for commercial use, and the ASOs in phase 2/3 trials are innovative, delivered by multiple routes of administration and focused on both rare and common diseases. In fact, two ASOs are used in cardiovascular outcome studies and several others in very large trials. Interest in the technology continues to grow, and the field has been subject to a significant number of reviews. In this review, we focus on the molecular events that result in the effects observed and use recent clinical results involving several different ASOs to exemplify specific molecular mechanisms and specific issues. We conclude with the prospective on the technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley T Crooke
- Core Antisense Research, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, California, USA.
| | - Xue-Hai Liang
- Core Antisense Research, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - Brenda F Baker
- Development Communication, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, California, USA
| | - Rosanne M Crooke
- Antisense Drug Discovery, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Carlsbad, California, USA
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Rahić O, Tucak A, Omerović N, Sirbubalo M, Hindija L, Hadžiabdić J, Vranić E. Novel Drug Delivery Systems Fighting Glaucoma: Formulation Obstacles and Solutions. Pharmaceutics 2020; 13:E28. [PMID: 33375224 PMCID: PMC7824381 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is considered to be one of the biggest health problems in the world. It is the main cause of preventable blindness due to its asymptomatic nature in the early stages on the one hand and patients' non-adherence on the other. There are several approaches in glaucoma treatment, whereby this has to be individually designed for each patient. The first-line treatment is medication therapy. However, taking into account numerous disadvantages of conventional ophthalmic dosage forms, intensive work has been carried out on the development of novel drug delivery systems for glaucoma. This review aims to provide an overview of formulation solutions and strategies in the development of in situ gel systems, nanosystems, ocular inserts, contact lenses, collagen corneal shields, ocular implants, microneedles, and iontophoretic devices. The results of studies confirming the effectiveness of the aforementioned drug delivery systems were also briefly presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ognjenka Rahić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Amina Tucak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Naida Omerović
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Merima Sirbubalo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Lamija Hindija
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Jasmina Hadžiabdić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Edina Vranić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (A.T.); (M.S.); (L.H.); (J.H.)
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Huang CY, Chung CL, Hu TH, Chen JJ, Liu PF, Chen CL. Recent progress in TGF-β inhibitors for cancer therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 134:111046. [PMID: 33341049 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine that is involved in proliferation, metastasis, and many other important processes in malignancy. Inhibitors targeting TGF-β have been considered by pharmaceutical companies for cancer therapy, and some of them are in clinical trial now. Unfortunately, several of these programs have recently been relinquished, and most companies that remain in the contest are progressing slowly and cautiously. This review summarizes the TGF-β signal transduction pathway, its roles in oncogenesis and fibrotic diseases, and advancements in antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors of TGF-β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yi Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital, Kaohsiung 80284, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-Ling Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tsung-Hui Hu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jih-Jung Chen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Feng Liu
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan ROC
| | - Chun-Lin Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan ROC; Graduate Institute of Natural Products, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan ROC.
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40
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Antisense drug discovery and development technology considered in a pharmacological context. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 189:114196. [PMID: 32800852 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
When coined, the term "antisense" included oligonucleotides of any structure, with any chemical modification and designed to work through any post-RNA hybridization mechanism. However, in practice the term "antisense" has been used to describe single stranded oligonucleotides (ss ASOs) designed to hybridize to RNAswhile the term "siRNA" has come to mean double stranded oligonucleotides designed to activate Ago2. However, the two approaches share many common features. The medicinal chemistry developed for ASOs greatly facilitated the development of siRNA technology and remains the chemical basis for both approaches. Many of challenges faced and solutions achieved share many common features. In fact, because ss ASOs can be designed to activate Ago2, the two approaches intersect at this remarkably important protein. There are also meaningful differences. The pharmacokinetic properties are quite different and thus potential routes of delivery differ. ASOs may be designedto use a variety of post-RNA binding mechanismswhile siRNAs depend solely on the robust activity of Ago2. However, siRNAs and ASOs are both used for therapeutic purposes and both must be and can be understood in a pharmacological context. Thus, the goals of this review are to put ASOs in pharmacological context and compare their behavior as pharmacological agents to the those of siRNAs.
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Eghrari AO, Rasooly MM, Fliotsos MJ, Kinard J, Odozor O, Cunningham D, Bishop RJ, Guerrerio AL, Frischmeyer-Guerrerio PA. Corneal thinning and cornea guttata in patients with mutations in TGFB2. Can J Ophthalmol 2020; 55:336-341. [PMID: 32307099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjo.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human genome-wide association studies and animal models suggest a role for TGFB2 in contributing to the corneal thickness phenotype. No specific mutations, however, have been reported in this gene that affect corneal thickness. We sought to determine if haploinsufficiency of TGFB2 in humans associated with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4 is associated with corneal thinning. DESIGN Observational cohort study of families with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4, caused specifically by TGFB2 mutations, in a tertiary care setting. PARTICIPANTS Three probands with pathogenic mutations in TGFB2 and family members underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination. METHODS Clinical assessment included Scheimpflug imaging, specular microscopy, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. We measured visual acuity, axial length, refractive error, and central corneal thickness. RESULTS Clinical evaluation of 2 probands identified corneal thinning and cornea guttata, despite a young age and distinct mutations in TGFB2 (c.905G>A, p.Arg302His; c.988C>A, p.Arg330Ser). In the third family, corneal thinning co-segregated with a TGFB2 mutation (c.1103G>A, p.Gly368Glu), although without apparent guttae. CONCLUSIONS In this series, participants with TGFB2 mutations associated with Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 4 demonstrated decreased corneal thickness, and in 2 cases with splice site mutations, also demonstrated cornea guttata. The data demonstrate the importance of considering distinct phenotype-genotype correlations within this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen O Eghrari
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | | | - Michael J Fliotsos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jessica Kinard
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, MD
| | - Obinna Odozor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Denise Cunningham
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Rachel J Bishop
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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NikhalaShree S, Karthikkeyan G, George R, Shantha B, Vijaya L, Ratra V, Sulochana KN, Coral K. Lowered Decorin With Aberrant Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Aqueous Humor and Tenon's Tissue From Primary Glaucoma Patients. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 60:4661-4669. [PMID: 31725165 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the inflammatory cytokine, growth factors, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling genes, profibrotic and antifibrotic molecules in patients undergoing glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). Additionally, the effect of preoperative antiglaucoma medications (AGMs) and postoperative bleb status were related to these parameters. Methods Tenon's tissue and aqueous humour (AH) were collected from 207 patients undergoing GFS with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) (n = 77), primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) (n = 62), and cataract controls (n = 68). Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor β1/2 (TGF-β1/2), lysyl oxidase (LOX), lysyl oxidase L2 (LOXL2), elastin (ELN), collagen type 1 α 1 (COL1A1), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and decorin (DCN) were determined in tenon's tissue by real-time PCR and in AH using ELISA. Results A significant increase was observed in the transcripts of MCP-1, TGF-β2, and SPARC in POAG and PACG (P < 0.05); CTGF, TGF-β1, LOX, LOXL2, ELN, COL1A1, and α-SMA in PACG (P < 0.05) compared with control. DCN transcript was significantly decreased in POAG and PACG (P < 0.05) compared with control. The protein levels of CTGF, TGF-β1/β2, ELN, SPARC, and LOXL2 was significantly elevated in POAG and PACG (P < 0.05); DCN was decreased (P < 0.05) compared with control. These parameters showed significant association with duration of preoperative AGMs and postoperative bleb status. Conclusions This study demonstrates increased expression of growth factors and ECM molecules, both at protein and transcript levels in GFS patients. A decreased DCN in AH seems striking, and if restored might have a therapeutic role in minimizing postoperative scarring to improve GFS outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sampath NikhalaShree
- R.S. Mehta Jain Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, KBIRVO, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Gayathree Karthikkeyan
- R.S. Mehta Jain Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, KBIRVO, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Ronnie George
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Balekudaru Shantha
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Lingam Vijaya
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Vineet Ratra
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | | | - Karunakaran Coral
- R.S. Mehta Jain Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, KBIRVO, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
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Yang Y, Abdulatef ASWA, Zhang L, Jiang H, Zeng Z, Li H, Xia X. Cross-talk between MYOC p. Y437H mutation and TGF-β2 in the pathology of glaucoma. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:1062-1070. [PMID: 32410836 PMCID: PMC7211149 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.43614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify the interaction between the MYOC Y437H mutation and TGF-β2 in a family with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods: The MYOC Y437H mutation was identified in a family with POAG; the family was a fourth-generation family with 27 members, of which 6 members were affected. Analysis focused on the secreted myocilin protein and TGF-β2 found in the aqueous humor. Samples were taken both from normal controls and MYOC mutant carriers and cross-talk between MYOC Y437H and TGF-β2 were evaluated in the trabecular meshwork (TM) cells. Results: Aqueous humor secreted myocilin protein levels were reduced while TGF-β2 levels were increased in patients with the MYOC (c.1309T>C) mutation. This inverse relationship indicated that elevated TGF-β2 may be an important pathogenic mechanism in the progression of myocilin-related POAG. In TM cells expressing the MYOC Y437H mutant, exogenous TGF-β2 also significantly increased myocilin expression as well as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers GRP94 and CHOP. This increase in TGF-β2 was also associated with increased cell death in cells carrying the MYOC Y437H mutation. Conclusion: These data collectively suggest that the mutual interaction between glaucomatous MYOC mutation and TGF-β2 contributed to the cell death of TM cells. This relationship also provides a new, therapeutic targets for the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Eye center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, the First People's Hospital of Yueyang, Yueyang, 414000, Hunan Province, China
| | | | - LuSi Zhang
- The School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan Province, China
| | - Haibo Jiang
- Eye center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhou Zeng
- Eye center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Haibo Li
- Eye center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan Province, China
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Coutinho MF, Matos L, Santos JI, Alves S. RNA Therapeutics: How Far Have We Gone? ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1157:133-177. [PMID: 31342441 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-19966-1_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the RNA molecule became one of the most promising targets for therapeutic intervention. Currently, a large number of RNA-based therapeutics are being investigated both at the basic research level and in late-stage clinical trials. Some of them are even already approved for treatment. RNA-based approaches can act at pre-mRNA level (by splicing modulation/correction using antisense oligonucleotides or U1snRNA vectors), at mRNA level (inhibiting gene expression by siRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides) or at DNA level (by editing mutated sequences through the use of CRISPR/Cas). Other RNA approaches include the delivery of in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA or the use of oligonucleotides aptamers. Here we review these approaches and their translation into clinics trying to give a brief overview also on the difficulties to its application as well as the research that is being done to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francisca Coutinho
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Liliana Matos
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Juliana Inês Santos
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Alves
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal.
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Guglielmi P, Carradori S, Campestre C, Poce G. Novel therapies for glaucoma: a patent review (2013-2019). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2019; 29:769-780. [DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2019.1653279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Guglielmi
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Campestre
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giovanna Poce
- Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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46
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Hubens WHG, Breddels EM, Walid Y, Ramdas WD, Webers CAB, Gorgels TGMF. Mapping mRNA Expression of Glaucoma Genes in the Healthy Mouse Eye. Curr Eye Res 2019; 44:1006-1017. [PMID: 30978300 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2019.1607392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose/Aim: Many genes have been associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Knowing exactly where they are expressed in the eye helps to unravel POAG pathology and to select optimal targets for intervention. We investigated whether RNA in situ hybridization (RNA-ISH) is a convenient technique to obtain detailed pan-ocular expression data of these genes. We tested this for four diverse candidate POAG genes, selected because of unclear ocular distribution (F5 and Dusp1) and relevance for potential new therapies (Tnf, Tgfβr3). Optn, a POAG gene with well-known ocular expression pattern served as control. Methods: We made a list of candidate glaucoma genes reported in genetic studies. A table of their ocular expression at the tissue level was compiled using publicly available microarray data (the ocular tissue database). To add cellular detail we performed RNA-ISH for Optn, Tnf, Tgfβr3, F5, and Dusp1 on eyes of healthy, 2-month-old, pigmented, and albino mice. Results: Expression of the Optn control matched with published immunohistochemistry data. Ocular expression of Tnf was generally low, with patches of higher Tnf expression, superficially in the corneal epithelium. F5 had a restricted expression pattern with high expression in the nonpigmented ciliary body epithelium and moderate expression in the peripapillary region. Tgfβr3 and Dusp1 showed ubiquitous expression. Conclusions: RNA-ISH is a suitable technique to determine the ocular expression pattern of POAG genes, adding meaningful cellular detail to existing microarray expression data. For instance, the high expression of F5 in the nonpigmented ciliary body epithelium suggests a role of this gene in aqueous humor dynamics and intraocular pressure. In addition, the ubiquitous expression of Tgfβr3 has implications for designing TGF-β-related glaucoma therapies, with respect to side effects. Creating pan-ocular expression maps of POAG genes with RNA-ISH will help to identify POAG pathways in specific cell types and to select targets for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter H G Hubens
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,Department of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Esmee M Breddels
- Department of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Youssef Walid
- Department of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University , Maastricht , The Netherlands
| | - Wishal D Ramdas
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | | | - Theo G M F Gorgels
- University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center , Maastricht , The Netherlands.,The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN-KNAW), Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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Mietzner R, Breunig M. Causative glaucoma treatment: promising targets and delivery systems. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1606-1613. [PMID: 30905679 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is one of the most common causes of blindness worldwide. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the major modifiable risk factor of the disease. Conventional therapy suffers from poor compliance, low bioavailability, and the lack of causative treatment options. To improve therapeutic success, it is crucial to identify major mediators of pathological changes associated with elevated IOP and to intervene at the molecular level. Here, we discuss relevant key functions of transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), integrins, Rho-associated kinase (ROCK), and nitric oxide (NO) with regard to the onset of glaucoma, highlighting new drug delivery approaches for causative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Mietzner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Breunig
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93040 Regensburg, Germany.
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48
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Inhibitory role of transforming growth factor β2 in experimental autoimmune anterior uveitis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 257:953-960. [PMID: 30719689 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04255-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Experimental autoimmune anterior uveitis (EAAU) is a clinically relevant animal model for human idiopathic anterior uveitis (IAU). The role of the immunomodulator transforming growth factor β2 (TGF-β2) in EAAU pathology is unknown. In this study, we investigated the regulatory role of TGF-β2 in EAAU. METHODS EAAU was induced in male Lewis rats by footpad injection of melanin-associated antigen (MAA). TGF-β2 was administered intravenously (iv) in MAA-sensitized rats during the induction of EAAU, or after the clinical onset of uveitis. MAA-sensitized rats injected similarly with an equal volume of PBS served as control. Animals were examined daily between days 7 and 30 post-injection for the clinical signs of uveitis using slit lamp biomicroscopy. Animals were sacrificed at various time points and eyes were harvested for histological analysis to assess the course and severity of inflammation. For histopathological analysis, paraffin sections of harvested eyes were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Popliteal lymph nodes (LNs) were used for CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ T regulatory (Tregs) population analysis and for CD4+ T cell proliferation assay. RESULTS Administration of recombinant TGF-β2 during the early stages of EAAU prevented the induction of uveitis. Compared to PBS, the presence of TGF-β2 in the cell culture significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the proliferation of CD4+ T cells in response to MAA. In MAA-sensitized Lewis rats, iv treatment with recombinant TGF-β2 resulted in significantly (p < 0.05) increased percentage of Tregs compared to animals treated similarly with PBS. Thus, TGF-β2 inhibited the induction of EAAU by inhibiting CD4+ T cell proliferation and increasing the number of Tregs. Injection of TGF-β2 in rats with active EAAU resulted in diminished disease activity. Unfortunately, this treatment did not lead to the early resolution of EAAU. CONCLUSIONS TGF-β2 plays a critical role in regulation of intraocular inflammation in EAAU. Findings reported in this study improve our understanding of immunopathology of IAU and suggest that recombinant TGF-β2 may be a promising therapeutic agent for human IAU.
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Adams CM, Stacy R, Rangaswamy N, Bigelow C, Grosskreutz CL, Prasanna G. Glaucoma - Next Generation Therapeutics: Impossible to Possible. Pharm Res 2018; 36:25. [PMID: 30547244 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-018-2557-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The future of next generation therapeutics for glaucoma is strong. The recent approval of two novel intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering drugs with distinct mechanisms of action is the first in over 20 years. However, these are still being administered as topical drops. Efforts are underway to increase patient compliance and greater therapeutic benefits with the development of sustained delivery technologies. Furthermore, innovations from biologics- and gene therapy-based therapeutics are being developed in the context of disease modification, which are expected to lead to more permanent therapies for patients. Neuroprotection, including the preservation of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve is another area that is actively being explored for therapeutic options. With improvements in imaging technologies and determination of new surrogate clinical endpoints, the therapeutic potential for translation of neuroprotectants is coming close to clinical realization. This review summarizes the aforementioned topics and other related aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Adams
- Global Discovery Chemistry, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research (NIBR),, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca Stacy
- Translational Medicine, Ophthalmology, NIBR, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nalini Rangaswamy
- Ophthalmology Research, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 22 Windsor Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139, USA
| | - Chad Bigelow
- Ophthalmology Research, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 22 Windsor Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139, USA
| | - Cynthia L Grosskreutz
- Ophthalmology Research, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 22 Windsor Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139, USA
| | - Ganesh Prasanna
- Ophthalmology Research, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 22 Windsor Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139, USA.
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50
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Henein C, Lee RMH, Khaw PT. New therapeutic avenues in glaucoma surgery. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2018.1513327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christin Henein
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Richard M. H. Lee
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Peng T. Khaw
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
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