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Liu Y, Wang A, Chen C, Zhang Q, Shen Q, Zhang D, Xiao X, Chen S, Lian L, Le Z, Liu S, Liang T, Zheng Q, Xu P, Zou J. Microglial cGAS-STING signaling underlies glaucoma pathogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2409493121. [PMID: 39190350 PMCID: PMC11388346 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2409493121] [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: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and vision loss, glaucoma is the primary cause of irreversible blindness, incurable and affecting over 78 million patients. However, pathogenic mechanisms leading to glaucoma-induced RGC loss are incompletely understood. Unexpectedly, we found that cGAS-STING (2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP-stimulator of interferon genes) signaling, which surveils displaced double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytosol and initiates innate immune responses, was robustly activated during glaucoma in retinal microglia in distinct murine models. Global or microglial deletion of STING markedly relieved glaucoma symptoms and protected RGC degeneration and vision loss, while mice bearing genetic cGAS-STING supersensitivity aggravated retinal neuroinflammation and RGC loss. Mechanistically, dsDNA from tissue injury activated microglial cGAS-STING signaling, causing deleterious macroglia reactivity in retinas by cytokine-mediated microglia-macroglia interactions, progressively driving apoptotic death of RGCs. Remarkably, preclinical investigations of targeting cGAS-STING signaling by intraocular injection of TBK1i or anti-IFNAR1 antibody prevented glaucoma-induced losses of RGCs and vision. Therefore, we unravel an essential role of cGAS-STING signaling underlying glaucoma pathogenesis and suggest promising therapeutic strategies for treating this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ailian Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qin Shen
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xueqi Xiao
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital School of Medicine, Center for Genetic Medicine, Zhejiang University International Institute of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Shasha Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Lili Lian
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zhenmin Le
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Shengduo Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qinxiang Zheng
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Pinglong Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ministry of Education Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jian Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital School of Medicine, Center for Genetic Medicine, Zhejiang University International Institute of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
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2
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Bou Ghanem GO, Wareham LK, Calkins DJ. Addressing neurodegeneration in glaucoma: Mechanisms, challenges, and treatments. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101261. [PMID: 38527623 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101261] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The disease causes vision loss due to neurodegeneration of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) projection to the brain through the optic nerve. Glaucoma is associated with sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP). Thus, mainstay treatments seek to manage IOP, though many patients continue to lose vision. To address neurodegeneration directly, numerous preclinical studies seek to develop protective or reparative therapies that act independently of IOP. These include growth factors, compounds targeting metabolism, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, and neuromodulators. Despite success in experimental models, many of these approaches fail to translate into clinical benefits. Several factors contribute to this challenge. Firstly, the anatomic structure of the optic nerve head differs between rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans. Additionally, animal models do not replicate the complex glaucoma pathophysiology in humans. Therefore, to enhance the success of translating these findings, we propose two approaches. First, thorough evaluation of experimental targets in multiple animal models, including nonhuman primates, should precede clinical trials. Second, we advocate for combination therapy, which involves using multiple agents simultaneously, especially in the early and potentially reversible stages of the disease. These strategies aim to increase the chances of successful neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi O Bou Ghanem
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Lauren K Wareham
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - David J Calkins
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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3
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Msheik Z, Durand S, Pinault E, Caillaud M, Vignaud L, Billet F, El Massry M, Desmouliere A. Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A and sciatic nerve crush rat models: insights from proteomics. Neural Regen Res 2022; 18:1354-1363. [PMID: 36453423 PMCID: PMC9838138 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.357911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The sensorimotor and histological aspects of peripheral neuropathies were already studied by our team in two rat models: the sciatic nerve crush and the Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A disease. In this study, we sought to highlight and compare the protein signature of these two pathological situations. Indeed, the identification of protein profiles in diseases can play an important role in the development of pharmacological targets. In fact, Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A rats develop motor impairments that are more severe in the hind limbs. Therefore, for the first time, protein expression in sciatic nerve of Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A rats was examined. First, distal sciatic nerves were collected from Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A and uninjured wild-type rats aged 3 months. After protein extraction, sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry was employed. 445 proteins mapped to Swiss-Prot or trEMBL Uniprot databases were identified and quantified. Of these, 153 proteins showed statistically significant differences between Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A and wild-type groups. The majority of these proteins were overexpressed in Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A. Hierarchical clustering and functional enrichment using Gene Ontology were used to group these proteins based on their biological effects concerning Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A pathophysiology. Second, proteomic characterization of wild-type rats subjected to sciatic nerve crush was performed sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. One month after injury, distal sciatic nerves were collected and analyzed as described above. Out of 459 identified proteins, 92 showed significant differences between sciatic nerve crush and the uninjured wild-type rats used in the first study. The results suggest that young adult Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A rats (3 months old) develop compensatory mechanisms at the level of redox balance, protein folding, myelination, and axonogenesis. These mechanisms seem insufficient to hurdle the progress of the disease. Notably, response to oxidative stress appears to be a significant feature of Charcot-Marie-Tooth-1A, potentially playing a role in the pathological process. In contrast to the first experiment, the majority of the proteins that differed from wild-type were downregulated in the sciatic nerve crush group. Functional enrichment suggested that neurogenesis, response to axon injury, and oxidative stress were important biological processes. Protein analysis revealed an imperfect repair at this time point after injury and identified several distinguishable proteins. In conclusion, we suggest that peripheral neuropathies, whether of a genetic or traumatic cause, share some common pathological pathways. This study may provide directions for better characterization of these models and/or identifying new specific therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeina Msheik
- UR20218 NeurIT (NEURopathies périphériques et Innovation Thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Stephanie Durand
- BISCEm (Biologie Intégrative Santé Chimie Environnement) Platform, US 42 Inserm/UAR 2015 CNRS, University of Limoges, Limoges, France,UMR 1308 Inserm/CHU–CAPTuR (Contrôle de l’Activation cellulaire, Progression Tumorale et Résistance thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Emilie Pinault
- BISCEm (Biologie Intégrative Santé Chimie Environnement) Platform, US 42 Inserm/UAR 2015 CNRS, University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Martial Caillaud
- Inserm UMR1235–TENS (The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases), University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Laetitia Vignaud
- UR20218 NeurIT (NEURopathies périphériques et Innovation Thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Fabrice Billet
- UR20218 NeurIT (NEURopathies périphériques et Innovation Thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Mohamed El Massry
- UR20218 NeurIT (NEURopathies périphériques et Innovation Thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Alexis Desmouliere
- UR20218 NeurIT (NEURopathies périphériques et Innovation Thérapeutique), University of Limoges, Limoges, France,Correspondence to: Alexis Desmoulière, .
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Lee K, Choi JO, Hwang A, Bae HW, Kim CY. Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Derived From Astrocytes Protects Retinal Ganglion Cells Through PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, and MAPK/ERK Pathways. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:4. [PMID: 35925584 PMCID: PMC9363680 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.9.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the roles of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) on the protective effects of astrocytes on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Methods Primary RGCs were isolated from neonatal rats. Oxidative stress was induced, and the effects of co-culture with astrocytes and CNTF treatment on RGCs were evaluated. The pathways commonly altered by astrocytes and CNTF were investigated. Effects of each pathway were investigated using pathway inhibitors against PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, and MAPK/ERK. RNA sequencing was performed to identify the genes upregulated and downregulated by CNTF treatment. Results Astrocytes improved the viability and increased β3-tubulin expression in RGCs. The concentration of CNTF increased in the RGC-astrocyte co-culture medium. The protective effects of astrocytes were abolished by neutralization with the anti-CNTF antibody; thus, CNTF may play an important role in the effects mediated by astrocytes. Furthermore, CNTF treatment alone enhanced the viability and β3-tubulin expression of RGCs and increased the population of viable RGCs under oxidative stress. The PI3K/AKT pathway was associated with both RGC viability and β3-tubulin expression. However, the JAK/STAT pathway increased the viability of RGCs, whereas the MAPK/ERK pathway was associated with β3-tubulin expression. RNA sequencing revealed the CNTF-upregulated genes associated with response to DNA damage and downregulated genes associated with photoreceptor cell differentiation. Conclusions Our data revealed protective effects of astrocyte-derived CNTF on RGCs. In addition, we showed that multiple pathways exert these protective effects and identified the novel genes involved. These results may be helpful in developing treatments for RGC injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwanghyun Lee
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ok Choi
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahreum Hwang
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung Won Bae
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Yun Kim
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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5
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Masuda S, Tanaka S, Shiraki H, Sotomaru Y, Harada K, Hide I, Kiuchi Y, Sakai N. GPR3 expression in retinal ganglion cells contributes to neuron survival and accelerates axonal regeneration after optic nerve crush in mice. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 172:105811. [PMID: 35809764 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105811] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy and is currently one of the most common diseases that leads to irreversible blindness. The axonal degeneration that occurs before retinal ganglion neuronal loss is suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. G protein-coupled receptor 3 (GPR3) belongs to the class A rhodopsin-type GPCR family and is highly expressed in various neurons. GPR3 is unique in its ability to constitutively activate the Gαs protein without a ligand, which elevates the basal intracellular cAMP level. Our earlier reports suggested that GPR3 enhances both neurite outgrowth and neuronal survival. However, the potential role of GPR3 in axonal regeneration after neuronal injury has not been elucidated. Herein, we investigated retinal GPR3 expression and its possible involvement in axonal regeneration after retinal injury in mice. GPR3 was relatively highly expressed in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Surprisingly, RGCs in GPR3 knockout mice were vulnerable to neural death during aging without affecting high intraocular pressure (IOP) and under ischemic conditions. Primary cultured neurons from the retina showed that GPR3 expression was correlated with neurite outgrowth and neuronal survival. Evaluation of the effect of GPR3 on axonal regeneration using GPR3 knockout mice revealed that GPR3 in RGCs participates in axonal regeneration after optic nerve crush (ONC) under zymosan stimulation. In addition, regenerating axons were further stimulated when GPR3 was upregulated in RGCs, and the effect was further augmented when combined with zymosan treatment. These results suggest that GPR3 expression in RGCs helps maintain neuronal survival and accelerates axonal regeneration after ONC in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Masuda
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Shigeru Tanaka
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan.
| | - Hiroko Shiraki
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sotomaru
- Natural Science Center for Basic Research and Development, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kana Harada
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Izumi Hide
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kiuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Norio Sakai
- Department of Molecular and Pharmacological Neuroscience, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
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6
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Lambuk L, Mohd Lazaldin MA, Ahmad S, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R, Uskoković V, Mohamud R. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-Mediated Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: A Review of Current State of the Art. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:875662. [PMID: 35668928 PMCID: PMC9163364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.875662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are neurons of the visual system that are responsible for transmitting signals from the retina to the brain via the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy characterized by apoptotic loss of RGCs and degeneration of optic nerve fibers. Risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure and vascular dysregulation trigger the injury that culminates in RGC apoptosis. In the event of injury, the survival of RGCs is facilitated by neurotrophic factors (NTFs), the most widely studied of which is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its production is regulated locally in the retina, but transport of BDNF retrogradely from the brain to retina is also crucial. Not only that the interruption of this retrograde transport has been detected in the early stages of glaucoma, but significantly low levels of BDNF have also been detected in the sera and ocular fluids of glaucoma patients, supporting the notion that neurotrophic deprivation is a likely mechanism of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Moreover, exogenous NTF including BDNF administration was shown reduce neuronal loss in animal models of various neurodegenerative diseases, indicating the possibility that exogenous BDNF may be a treatment option in glaucoma. Current literature provides an extensive insight not only into the sources, transport, and target sites of BDNF but also the intracellular signaling pathways, other pathways that influence BDNF signaling and a wide range of its functions. In this review, the authors discuss the neuroprotective role of BDNF in promoting the survival of RGCs and its possible application as a therapeutic tool to meet the challenges in glaucoma management. We also highlight the possibility of using BDNF as a biomarker in neurodegenerative disease such as glaucoma. Further we discuss the challenges and future strategies to explore the utility of BDNF in the management of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidawani Lambuk
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | | | - Suhana Ahmad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vuk Uskoković
- TardigradeNano LLC, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
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7
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Chen S, Lathrop KL, Kuwajima T, Gross JM. Retinal ganglion cell survival after severe optic nerve injury is modulated by crosstalk between Jak/Stat signaling and innate immune responses in the zebrafish retina. Development 2022; 149:272198. [PMID: 34528064 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Visual information is transmitted from the eye to the brain along the optic nerve, a structure composed of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons. The optic nerve is highly vulnerable to damage in neurodegenerative diseases, such as glaucoma, and there are currently no FDA-approved drugs or therapies to protect RGCs from death. Zebrafish possess remarkable neuroprotective and regenerative abilities. Here, utilizing an optic nerve transection (ONT) injury and an RNA-seq-based approach, we identify genes and pathways active in RGCs that may modulate their survival. Through pharmacological perturbation, we demonstrate that Jak/Stat pathway activity is required for RGC survival after ONT. Furthermore, we show that immune responses directly contribute to RGC death after ONT; macrophages/microglia are recruited to the retina and blocking neuroinflammation or depleting these cells after ONT rescues survival of RGCs. Taken together, these data support a model in which crosstalk between macrophages/microglia and RGCs, mediated by Jak/Stat pathway activity, regulates RGC survival after optic nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008 Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, 410008 Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Kira L Lathrop
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Takaaki Kuwajima
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Department of Developmental Biology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Gross
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.,Department of Developmental Biology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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8
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Geng Y, Lu Z, Guan J, van Rooijen N, Zhi Y. Microglia/Macrophages and CD4 +CD25 + T Cells Enhance the Ability of Injury-Activated Lymphocytes to Reduce Traumatic Optic Neuropathy In Vitro. Front Immunol 2021; 12:687898. [PMID: 34484185 PMCID: PMC8414969 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.687898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation after acute CNS injury plays a dual role. The interplay between immune cells and inflammatory mediators is critical to the outcome of injured neurons. Microglia/macrophages are the first sensors and regulators of the immune response. We previously found that the enhancement of macrophages on neuron survival does not persist in thymectomized rats. How T lymphocytes and macrophages interact and benefit neuron survival is not fully elucidated. To this point, we introduce and characterize a cell-retina co-culture model that mimics the recruitment of peripheral lymphocytes at the injury site. Three-day post-optic nerve transection (ONT) in Fischer 344 rats, transected retinas were co-cultured with either peripheral lymph node-derived lymphocytes (injury-activated) or from intact rats as the control. The injury-activated lymphocytes preserved retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and caused extensive retina microglial/macrophage infiltration. CD4+CD25+ T cells were upregulated in the injury-activated lymphocytes and increased RGC survival, suggesting that CD4+CD25+ T cells suppressed the cytotoxicity of control lymphocytes. When microglia/macrophages were depleted by clodronate, neuron loss was more extensive, the cytotoxicity of control lymphocytes on RGCs was alleviated, and the neuroprotective effect of injury-activated lymphocytes remain unchanged Cytokine detection showed an increase in IL-6 and TNF-α levels that were reduced with microglia/macrophage depletion. Our results suggest that microglial/macrophage infiltration into axotomized retinas promotes RGC survival by secreting cytokines to induce CD4+CD25+ T cells and suppress T cell-mediated RGC toxicity. These findings reveal a specific role for microglia/macrophage and CD4+CD25+ T cells in inflammation after CNS injury, thereby adding to the mechanistic basis for the development of microglial/macrophage modulation therapy for traumatic CNS injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Geng
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Zhihao Lu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jitian Guan
- Department of MRI, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Nico van Rooijen
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ye Zhi
- Department of Anatomy, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
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9
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Cen LP, Ng TK, Liang JJ, Xu C, Zhuang X, Liu YF, Chen SL, Xu Y, Yang Q, Yuan XL, Qin YJ, Chan SO, Chen H, Zhang M, Schally AV, Pang CP. Agonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone enhances retinal ganglion cell protection induced by macrophages after optic nerve injury. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e1920834118. [PMID: 34244423 PMCID: PMC8285901 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920834118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic neuropathies are leading causes of irreversible visual impairment and blindness, currently affecting more than 100 million people worldwide. Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies attributed to progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We have previously demonstrated an increase in survival of RGCs by the activation of macrophages, whereas the inhibition of macrophages was involved in the alleviation on endotoxin-induced inflammation by antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Herein, we hypothesized that GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) signaling could be involved in the survival of RGCs mediated by inflammation. We found the expression of GHRH-R in RGCs of adult rat retina. After optic nerve crush, subcutaneous application of GHRH agonist MR-409 or antagonist MIA-602 promoted the survival of RGCs. Both the GHRH agonist and antagonist increased the phosphorylation of Akt in the retina, but only agonist MR-409 promoted microglia activation in the retina. The antagonist MIA-602 reduced significantly the expression of inflammation-related genes Il1b, Il6, and Tnf Moreover, agonist MR-409 further enhanced the promotion of RGC survival by lens injury or zymosan-induced macrophage activation, whereas antagonist MIA-602 attenuated the enhancement in RGC survival. Our findings reveal the protective effect of agonistic analogs of GHRH on RGCs in rats after optic nerve injury and its additive effect to macrophage activation, indicating a therapeutic potential of GHRH agonists for the protection of RGCs against optic neuropathies especially in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jia-Jian Liang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Ciyan Xu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Xi Zhuang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yu-Fen Liu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Shao-Lang Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yanxuan Xu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Qichen Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiang-Ling Yuan
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yong Jie Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong General Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 510080 Guangzhou, China
| | - Sun On Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Haoyu Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136;
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China;
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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10
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Neural Cadherin Plays Distinct Roles for Neuronal Survival and Axon Growth under Different Regenerative Conditions. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0325-20.2020. [PMID: 32967889 PMCID: PMC7688304 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0325-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing axons in the CNS often migrate along specific pathways to reach their targets. During embryonic development, this migration is guided by different types of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) present on the surface of glial cells or other neurons, including the neural cadherin (NCAD). Axons in the adult CNS can be stimulated to regenerate, and travel long distances. Crucially, however, while a few axons are guided effectively through the injured nerve under certain conditions, most axons never migrate properly. The molecular underpinnings of the variable growth, and the glial CAMs that are responsible for CNS axon regeneration remain unclear. Here we used optic nerve crush to demonstrate that NCAD plays multifaceted functions in facilitating CNS axon regeneration. Astrocyte-specific deletion of NCAD dramatically decreases regeneration induced by phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) ablation in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Consistent with NCAD’s tendency to act as homodimers, deletion of NCAD in RGCs also reduces regeneration. Deletion of NCAD in astrocytes neither alters RGCs’ mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) activity nor lesion size, two factors known to affect regeneration. Unexpectedly, however, we find that NCAD deletion in RGCs reduces PTEN-deletion-induced RGC survival. We further show that NCAD deletion, in either astrocytes or RGCs, has negligible effects on the regeneration induced by ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), suggesting that other CAMs are critical under this regenerative condition. Consistent with this notion, CNTF induces expression various integrins known to mediate cell adhesion. Together, our study reveals multilayered functions of NCAD and a molecular basis of variability in guided axon growth.
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11
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Bray ER, Yungher BJ, Levay K, Ribeiro M, Dvoryanchikov G, Ayupe AC, Thakor K, Marks V, Randolph M, Danzi MC, Schmidt TM, Chaudhari N, Lemmon VP, Hattar S, Park KK. Thrombospondin-1 Mediates Axon Regeneration in Retinal Ganglion Cells. Neuron 2019; 103:642-657.e7. [PMID: 31255486 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal subtypes show diverse injury responses, but the molecular underpinnings remain elusive. Using transgenic mice that allow reliable visualization of axonal fate, we demonstrate that intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are both resilient to cell death and highly regenerative. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we show genes that are differentially expressed in ipRGCs and that associate with their survival and axon regeneration. Strikingly, thrombospondin-1 (Thbs1) ranked as the most differentially expressed gene, along with the well-documented injury-response genes Atf3 and Jun. THBS1 knockdown in RGCs eliminated axon regeneration. Conversely, RGC overexpression of THBS1 enhanced regeneration in both ipRGCs and non-ipRGCs, an effect that was dependent on syndecan-1, a known THBS1-binding protein. All structural domains of the THBS1 were not equally effective; the trimerization and C-terminal domains promoted regeneration, while the THBS type-1 repeats were dispensable. Our results identify cell-type-specific induction of Thbs1 as a novel gene conferring high regenerative capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Bray
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Benjamin J Yungher
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Konstantin Levay
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marcio Ribeiro
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Gennady Dvoryanchikov
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ana C Ayupe
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kinjal Thakor
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Victoria Marks
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Michael Randolph
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Matt C Danzi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Tiffany M Schmidt
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Nirupa Chaudhari
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Vance P Lemmon
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Samer Hattar
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Kevin K Park
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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12
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Askvig JM, Watt JA. Absence of axonal sprouting following unilateral lesion in 125-day-old rat supraoptic nucleus may be due to age-dependent decrease in protein levels of ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor alpha. J Comp Neurol 2019; 527:2291-2301. [PMID: 30861131 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Within the supraoptic nucleus (SON) of a 35-day-old rat, we previously demonstrated a collateral sprouting response that reinnervates the partially denervated neural lobe (NL) after unilateral lesion of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial tract. Others have shown a decreased propensity for axonal sprouting in an aged brain; therefore, to see if the SON exhibits a decreased propensity for axonal sprouting as the animal ages, we performed a unilateral lesion in the 125-day-old rat SON. Ultrastructural analysis of axon profiles in the NL of the 125-day-old rat demonstrated an absence of axonal sprouting following injury. We previously demonstrated that ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) promotes process outgrowth from injured magnocellular neuron axons in vitro. Thus, we hypothesized that the lack of axonal sprouting in the 125-day-old rat SON may be due to a reduction in CNTF or the CNTF receptor components. To this point, we found that as the rat ages there is significantly less CNTF receptor alpha (CNTFRα) protein in the uninjured, 125-day-old rat compared to the uninjured, 35-day-old rat. We also observed that protein levels of CNTF and the CNTF receptor components were increased in the SON and NL following injury in the 35-day-old rat, but there was no difference in the protein levels in the 125-day-old rat. Altogether, the results presented herein demonstrate that the plasticity within the SON is highly dependent on the age of the rat, and that a decrease in CNTFRα protein levels in the 125-day-old rat may contribute to the loss of axonal sprouting following axotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Askvig
- Department of Biology, Concordia College, Moorhead, Minnesota
| | - John A Watt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, North Dakota
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13
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Optic Nerve Regeneration: Considerations on Treatment of Acute Optic Neuropathy and End-Stage Disease. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-019-00194-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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14
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Cen LP, Liu YF, Ng TK, Luo JM, van Rooijen N, Zhang M, Pang CP, Cui Q. Casein kinase-II inhibition promotes retinal ganglion cell survival and axonal regeneration. Exp Eye Res 2018; 177:153-159. [PMID: 30118655 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neuron survival is critical for the maintenance of central nervous system physiology upon diseases or injury. We previously demonstrated that the blockage of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and Janus kinase/STAT3 pathways promotes retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and axonal regeneration via macrophage activation; yet, the complexity of the inflammatory regulation for neural repair indicates the involvement of additional unresolved signaling pathways. Here we report the effects and underlying mechanism of casein kinase-II (CK2) inhibition on RGC survival and axonal regeneration in rats after optic nerve (ON) injury. Adult rats received intravitreal injection of CK2 inhibitors, TBB (4,5,6,7-Tetrabromo-2-azabenzimidazole) and DMAT (2-Dimethylamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazole), after ON transection and peripheral nerve (PN) grafting. Intravitreal application of TBB and DAMT effectively suppressed the CK2 phosphorylation activity in the retina, and enhanced RGC survival and axonal regeneration in vivo. Meanwhile, the numbers of infiltrating macrophages were increased. Removal of macrophages by clodronate liposomes significantly abolished the CK2 inhibition-induced RGC survival and axonal regeneration. Clodronate liposomes also weakened the RGC protective effects by TBB and DMAT in vitro. In summary, this study revealed that inhibition of CK2 enhances RGC survival and axonal regeneration via macrophage activation in rats. CK2 could be a therapeutic target for RGC protection after ON injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Yu-Fen Liu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Min Luo
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Nico van Rooijen
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 BT Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Qi Cui
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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15
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A Parkinson’s disease gene, DJ-1, regulates astrogliosis through STAT3. Neurosci Lett 2018; 685:144-149. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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16
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Role of neuritin in retinal ganglion cell death in adult mice following optic nerve injury. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10132. [PMID: 29973613 PMCID: PMC6031618 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28425-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuritin is a small extracellular protein that plays important roles in the process of neural development, synaptic plasticity, and neural cell survival. Here we investigated the function of neuritin in a mouse model of optic nerve injury (ONI). ONI induced upregulation of neuritin mRNA in the retina of WT mice. The retinal structure and the number of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) were normal in adult neuritin knockout (KO) mice. In vivo retinal imaging and histopathological analyses demonstrated that RGC death and inner retinal degeneration following ONI were more severe in neuritin KO mice. Immunoblot analyses revealed that ONI-induced phosphorylation of Akt and ERK were suppressed in neuritin KO mice. Our findings suggest that neuritin has neuroprotective effects following ONI and may be useful for treatment of posttraumatic complication.
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Yin Y, Benowitz LI. In Vitro and In Vivo Methods for Studying Retinal Ganglion Cell Survival and Optic Nerve Regeneration. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1695:187-205. [PMID: 29190028 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7407-8_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma is marked by a progressive degeneration of the optic nerve and delayed loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the projection neurons of the eye. Because RGCs are not replaced and because surviving RGCs cannot regenerate their axons, the visual loss in glaucoma is largely irreversible. Here, we describe methods to evaluate treatments that may be beneficial for treating glaucoma using in vitro cell culture models (immunopanning to isolate neonatal RGCs, dissociated mature retinal neurons, retinal explants) and in vivo models that test potential treatments or investigate underlying molecular mechanisms in an intact system. Potentially, use of these models can help investigators continue to improve treatments to preserve RGCs and restore visual function in patients with glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Yin
- Department of Neurosurgery, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, CLS 13030-15, 3 Blackfan Circle, 300 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Larry I Benowitz
- Department of Neurosurgery, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, CLS 13030-15, 3 Blackfan Circle, 300 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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18
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Vibert L, Daulny A, Jarriault S. Wound healing, cellular regeneration and plasticity: the elegans way. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2018; 62:491-505. [PMID: 29938761 PMCID: PMC6161810 DOI: 10.1387/ijdb.180123sj] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Regeneration and wound healing are complex processes that allow organs and tissues to regain their integrity and functionality after injury. Wound healing, a key property of epithelia, involves tissue closure that in some cases leads to scar formation. Regeneration, a process rather limited in mammals, is the capacity to regrow (parts of) an organ or a tissue, after damage or amputation. What are the properties of organs and the features of tissue permitting functional regrowth and repair? What are the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these processes? These questions are crucial both in fundamental and applied contexts, with important medical implications. The mechanisms and cells underlying tissue repair have thus been the focus of intense investigation. The last decades have seen rapid progress in the domain and new models emerging. Here, we review the fundamental advances and the perspectives that the use of C. elegans as a model have brought to the mechanisms of wound healing and cellular plasticity, axon regeneration and transdifferentiation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vibert
- Department of Development and Stem Cells, IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), CNRS UMR 7104/INSERM U1258, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Anne Daulny
- Department of Development and Stem Cells, IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), CNRS UMR 7104/INSERM U1258, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Sophie Jarriault
- Department of Development and Stem Cells, IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), CNRS UMR 7104/INSERM U1258, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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19
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Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor 1 Modulates CNTF-Induced Axonal Growth and Neuroprotection in the Mouse Visual System. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:6818970. [PMID: 29234527 PMCID: PMC5694992 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6818970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of axonal regeneration and neuronal cell death causes permanent neurological deficits in the injured CNS. Using the classical CNS injury model of optic nerve crush in mice, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) was found to stimulate retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and axonal growth, but in an incomplete fashion. The elucidation of molecular mechanisms impairing CNTF-induced axonal regeneration is paramount to promote visual recovery. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the contribution of sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) to the neuroprotective and regenerative effects of CNTF. The transduction of retinal cells with adeno-associated viruses (AAV) allowed to activate CNTF/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) signaling and to modulate S1PR1 expression in RGCs. Our results showed that CNTF/Stat3 prevented injury-induced S1PR1 downregulation. Silencing S1PR1 in RGCs significantly enhanced CNTF-induced axonal growth in the injured optic nerve. In contrast, RGC survival was markedly decreased when S1PR1 was repressed with viral vectors. The level of phosphorylated Stat3 (P-Stat3), an intracellular mediator of CNTF, did not fluctuate after S1PR1 inhibition and CNTF stimulation. Collectively, these results suggest that S1PR1 acts as a major regulator of retinal neuron survival and restricts the RGC growth response induced by CNTF.
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20
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Osborne A, Sanderson J, Martin KR. Neuroprotective Effects of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor on Human Retinal Ganglion Cells. Stem Cells 2017; 36:65-78. [PMID: 29044808 PMCID: PMC5765520 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Optic neuropathies such as glaucoma occur when retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the eye are injured. Strong evidence suggests mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could be a potential therapy to protect RGCs; however, little is known regarding their effect on the human retina. We, therefore, investigated if human MSCs (hMSCs), or platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) as produced by hMSC, could delay RGC death in a human retinal explant model of optic nerve injury. Our results showed hMSCs and the secreted growth factor PDGF‐AB could substantially reduce human RGC loss and apoptosis following axotomy. The neuroprotective pathways AKT, ERK, and STAT3 were activated in the retina shortly after treatments with labeling seen in the RGC layer. A dose dependent protective effect of PDGF‐AB was observed in human retinal explants but protection was not as substantial as that achieved by culturing hMSCs on the retina surface which resulted in RGC cell counts similar to those immediately post dissection. These results demonstrate that hMSCs and PDGF have strong neuroprotective action on human RGCs and may offer a translatable, therapeutic strategy to reduce degenerative visual loss. Stem Cells2018;36:65–78
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Osborne
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Sanderson
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Keith R Martin
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Cambridge NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Eye Department, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council, Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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21
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Fan L, Xiong Y, Fu Z, Xu D, Wang L, Chen Y, Xia H, Peng N, Ye S, Wang Y, Zhang L, Ye Q. Polyaniline promotes peripheral nerve regeneration by enhancement of the brain‑derived neurotrophic factor and ciliary neurotrophic factor expression and activation of the ERK1/2/MAPK signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:7534-7540. [PMID: 28944860 PMCID: PMC5865887 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A previous study has demonstrated a progression in the nerve regeneration by polyaniline/cellulose (PANI/RC), although the underlying mechanism was not elucidated. In the present study, regenerated nerves were investigated, using histological techniques, functional assays and western blot analysis. The triceps surae muscle weight ratio percentages of the sham, regenerated cellulose (RC) and the PANI/RC groups were 38.88±4.76 and 76.32±7.11%, respectively. The thickness of the myelin sheath for the aforementioned groups were as follows: 1.2±0.27; 0.49±0.21 and 0.93±0.28 µl. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were highly expressed in the regenerated nerve in the presence of polyaniline. Phosphorylated extracellular kinase (p-ERK)1/2 expression in the PANI/RC group was significantly elevated compared with the RC group (1.83-fold) and the sham group (4.92-fold). The expression of the axon sprout-associated proteins, such as Tau, α-tubulin and growth associated protein-43, were increased (1.64, 1.59 and 1.24-fold, respectively) compared with the RC group. The results demonstrated that PANI enhances the expression and secretion of BDNF and CNTF, activates the ERK1/2 signaling pathway and increases the expression levels of the GAP-43, Tau and α-tubulin, suggesting an insight into nerve regeneration and possible clinical interventions in nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fan
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Yan Xiong
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Fu
- Research Center of National Health Ministry on Transplantation Medicine Engineering and Technology, The 3rd Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Dingfeng Xu
- College of Chemistry & Molecule Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430081, P.R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Abdominal Laparoscopic Surgery, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, Qinghai 810001, P.R. China
| | - Haoyang Xia
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Na Peng
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Shaojun Ye
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Lina Zhang
- College of Chemistry & Molecule Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430081, P.R. China
| | - Qifa Ye
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
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22
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Li Y, Chen YM, Sun MM, Guo XD, Wang YC, Zhang ZZ. Inhibition on Apoptosis Induced by Elevated Hydrostatic Pressure in Retinal Ganglion Cell-5 via Laminin Upregulating β1-integrin/Focal Adhesion Kinase/Protein Kinase B Signaling Pathway. Chin Med J (Engl) 2017; 129:976-83. [PMID: 27064044 PMCID: PMC4831534 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.179785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by degeneration of neurons due to loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). High intraocular pressure (HIOP), the main risk factor, causes the optic nerve damage. However, the precise mechanism of HIOP-induced RGC death is not yet completely understood. This study was conducted to determine apoptosis of RGC-5 cells induced by elevated hydrostatic pressures, explore whether laminin is associated with apoptosis under pressure, whether laminin can protect RGCs from apoptosis and affirm the mechanism that regulates the process of RGCs survival. Methods: RGC-5 cells were exposed to 0, 20, 40, and 60 mmHg in a pressurized incubator for 6, 12, and 24 h, respectively. The effect of elevated hydrostatic pressure on RGC-5 cells was measured by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide staining, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and Western blotting of cleaved caspase-3 protein. Location and expression of laminin were detected by immunofluorescence. The expression of β1-integrin, phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and protein kinase B (PKB, or AKT) were investigated with real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analysis. Results: Elevated hydrostatic pressure induced apoptosis in cultured RGC-5 cells. Pressure with 40 mmHg for 24 h induced a maximum apoptosis. Laminin was declined in RGC-5 cells after exposing to 40 mmHg for 24 h. After pretreating with laminin, RGC-5 cells survived from elevated pressure. Furthermore, β1-integrin and phosphorylation of FAK and AKT were increased compared to 40 mmHg group. Conclusions: The data show apoptosis tendency of RGC-5 cells with elevated hydrostatic pressure. Laminin can protect RGC-5 cells against high pressure via β1-integrin/FAK/AKT signaling pathway. These results suggest that the decreased laminin of RGC-5 cells might be responsible for apoptosis induced by elevated hydrostatic pressure, and laminin or activating β1-integrin/FAK/AKT pathway might be potential treatments to prevent RGC loss in glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zhong-Zhi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, China
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23
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Cen LP, Liang JJ, Chen JH, Harvey AR, Ng TK, Zhang M, Pang CP, Cui Q, Fan YM. AAV-mediated transfer of RhoA shRNA and CNTF promotes retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regeneration. Neuroscience 2016; 343:472-482. [PMID: 28017835 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine whether adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) mediated transfer of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and RhoA shRNA has additive effects on promoting the survival and axon regeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve crush (ONC). Silencing effects of AAV-RhoA shRNA were confirmed by examining neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells, and by quantifying RhoA expression levels with western blotting. Young adult Fischer rats received an intravitreal injection of (i) saline, (ii) AAV green fluorescent protein (GFP), (iii) AAV-CNTF, (iv) AAV-RhoA shRNA, or (v) a combination of both AAV-CNTF and AAV-RhoA shRNA. Two weeks later, the ON was completely crushed. Three weeks after ONC, RGC survival was estimated by counting βIII-tubulin-positive neurons in retinal whole mounts. Axon regeneration was evaluated by counting GAP-43-positive axons in the crushed ON. It was found that AAV-RhoA shRNA decreased RhoA expression levels and promoted neurite outgrowth in vitro. In the ONC model, AAV-RhoA shRNA by itself had only weak beneficial effects on RGC axon regeneration. However, when combined with AAV-CNTF, AAV-RhoA shRNA significantly improved the therapeutic effect of AAV-CNTF on axon regeneration by nearly two fold, even though there was no significant change in RGC viability. In sum, this combination of vectors increases the regenerative response and can lead to more successful therapeutic outcomes following neurotrauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China.
| | - Jia-Jian Liang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China
| | - Jian-Huan Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China
| | - Alan R Harvey
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Qi Cui
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - You-Ming Fan
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center, Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, PR China; Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University for Nationalities, Enshi, PR China.
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24
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Dvoriantchikova G, Pappas S, Luo X, Ribeiro M, Danek D, Pelaez D, Park KK, Ivanov D. Virally delivered, constitutively active NFκB improves survival of injured retinal ganglion cells. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 44:2935-2943. [PMID: 27564592 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As axon damage and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss lead to blindness, therapies that increase RGC survival and axon regrowth have direct clinical relevance. Given that NFκB signaling is critical for neuronal survival and may regulate neurite growth, we investigated the therapeutic potential of NFκB signaling in RGC survival and axon regeneration. Although both NFκB subunits (p65 and p50) are present in RGCs, p65 exists in an inactive (unphosphorylated) state when RGCs are subjected to neurotoxic conditions. In this study, we used a phosphomimetic approach to generate DNA coding for an activated (phosphorylated) p65 (p65mut), then employed an adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2) to deliver the DNA into RGCs. We tested whether constitutive p65mut expression prevents death and facilitates neurite outgrowth in RGCs subjected to transient retinal ischemia or optic nerve crush (ONC), two models of neurotoxicity. Our data indicate that RGCs treated with AAV2-p65mut displayed a significant increase in survival compared to controls in ONC model (77 ± 7% vs. 25 ± 3%, P-value = 0.0001). We also found protective effect of modified p65 in RGCs of ischemic retinas (55 ± 12% vs. 35 ± 6%), but not to a statistically significant degree (P-value = 0.14). We did not detect a difference in axon regeneration between experimental and control animals after ONC. These findings suggest that increased NFκB signaling in RGCs attenuates retinal damage in animal models of neurodegeneration, but insignificantly impacts axon regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Dvoriantchikova
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Steve Pappas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Xueting Luo
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Marcio Ribeiro
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Dagmara Danek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Daniel Pelaez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Kevin K Park
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Dmitry Ivanov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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25
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Barbon S, Stocco E, Negro A, Dalzoppo D, Borgio L, Rajendran S, Grandi F, Porzionato A, Macchi V, De Caro R, Parnigotto PP, Grandi C. In vitro assessment of TAT - Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor therapeutic potential for peripheral nerve regeneration. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 309:121-8. [PMID: 27597256 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In regenerative neurobiology, Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is raising high interest as a multifunctional neurocytokine, playing a key role in the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves. Despite its promising trophic and regulatory activity, its clinical application is limited by the onset of severe side effects, due to the lack of efficient intracellular trafficking after administration. In this study, recombinant CNTF linked to the transactivator transduction domain (TAT) was investigated in vitro and found to be an optimized fusion protein which preserves neurotrophic activity, besides enhancing cellular uptake for therapeutic advantage. Moreover, a compelling protein delivery method was defined, in the future perspective of improving nerve regeneration strategies. Following determination of TAT-CNTF molecular weight and concentration, its specific effect on neural SH-SY5Y and PC12 cultures was assessed. Cell proliferation assay demonstrated that the fusion protein triggers PC12 cell growth within 6h of stimulation. At the same time, the activation of signal transduction pathway and enhancement of cellular trafficking were found to be accomplished in both neural cell lines after specific treatment with TAT-CNTF. Finally, the recombinant growth factor was successfully loaded on oxidized polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) scaffolds, and more efficiently released when polymer oxidation rate increased. Taken together, our results highlight that the TAT domain addiction to the protein sequence preserves CNTF specific neurotrophic activity in vitro, besides improving cellular uptake. Moreover, oxidized PVA could represent an ideal biomaterial for the development of nerve conduits loaded with the fusion protein to be delivered to the site of nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Barbon
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy; Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Elena Stocco
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy; Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Negro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Via Colombo 3, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Daniele Dalzoppo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Luca Borgio
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Senthilkumar Rajendran
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Francesca Grandi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Pediatric Surgery, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 3, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Veronica Macchi
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Section of Human Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via Gabelli 65, 35121 Padua, Italy.
| | - Pier Paolo Parnigotto
- Foundation for Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Signaling (TES) ONLUS, Via De Sanctis 10, Caselle di Selvazzano Dentro, 35030 Padua, Italy.
| | - Claudio Grandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padua, Italy.
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26
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Peng S, Shi Z, Su H, So KF, Cui Q. Increased production of omega-3 fatty acids protects retinal ganglion cells after optic nerve injury in mice. Exp Eye Res 2016; 148:90-96. [PMID: 27264241 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Injury to the central nervous system causes progressive degeneration of injured axons, leading to loss of the neuronal bodies. Neuronal survival after injury is a prerequisite for successful regeneration of injured axons. In this study, we investigated the effects of increased production of omega-3 fatty acids and elevation of cAMP on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival and axonal regeneration after optic nerve (ON) crush injury in adult mice. We found that increased production of omega-3 fatty acids in mice enhanced RGC survival, but not axonal regeneration, over a period of 3 weeks after ON injury. cAMP elevation promoted RGC survival in wild type mice, but no significant difference in cell survival was seen in mice over-producing omega-3 fatty acids and receiving intravitreal injections of CPT-cAMP, suggesting that cAMP elevation protects RGCs after injury but does not potentiate the actions of the omega-3 fatty acids. The observed omega-3 fatty acid-mediated neuroprotection is likely achieved partially through ERK1/2 signaling as inhibition of this pathway by PD98059 hindered, but did not completely block, RGC protection. Our study thus enhances our current understanding of neural repair after CNS injury, including the visual system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Peng
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Brain, Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education of PRC, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Shi
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Brain, Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education of PRC, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Cui
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Brain, Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education of PRC, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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27
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You SW, Hellström M, Pollett MA, LeVaillant C, Moses C, Rigby PJ, Penrose M, Rodger J, Harvey AR. Large-scale reconstitution of a retina-to-brain pathway in adult rats using gene therapy and bridging grafts: An anatomical and behavioral analysis. Exp Neurol 2016; 279:197-211. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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28
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Grummisch JA, Jadavji NM, Smith PD. tPA promotes cortical neuron survival via mTOR-dependent mechanisms. Mol Cell Neurosci 2016; 74:25-33. [PMID: 26995507 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a thrombolytic agent commonly used in the treatment of ischemic stroke. While the thrombolytic effects of tPA have been well established, the impact of this blood-brain barrier (BBB) crossing drug on neurons is not known. Given the widespread use of tPA in the clinical setting and the strict therapeutic window established for effective use of the drug, we examined the molecular mechanisms mediating the impact of tPA on postnatal cortical neurons isolated from the mouse brain. Dissociated postnatal primary cortical neurons were treated with tPA and the effects on neuron survival were evaluated. Pharmacological inhibitors of several signaling pathways previously implicated in neuroprotection (mTOR, JAK/STAT, MAPK and PKA-dependent mechanisms) were used to pinpoint the mechanistic effectors of tPA on neuron survival in vitro. We report here that tPA treatment results in a time-dependent neuroprotective effect on postnatal cortical neurons that relies predominantly on Janus kinase (JAK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling mechanisms. Taken together, these data suggest that tPA promotes neuroprotection in a temporally-regulated manner and that both JAK and mTOR signaling effectors are critical mediators of this neuroprotective effect. The results suggest the possibility of targeting these defined mechanisms to potentially expand the therapeutic window for tPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Grummisch
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Nafisa M Jadavji
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Patrice D Smith
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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29
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Mesenchymal stem cells secrete brain-derived neurotrophic factor and promote retinal ganglion cell survival after traumatic optic neuropathy. J Craniofac Surg 2015; 26:548-52. [PMID: 25723663 DOI: 10.1097/scs.0000000000001348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to investigate whether intravitreal injection of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultivated in vitro could increase the number of survived retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after traumatic optic neuropathy and sought to identify potential mechanisms underlying such growth. METHODS The right eye of 24 cats in the MSC transplantation group accepted intravitreal injection of MSCs, and the other 24 cats in the phosphate buffer (PBS) control group received isotonic saline after traumatic optic neuropathy. The RGCs' survival rate in separated retinal and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression were observed by Dil labeling and Enzyme-Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA), respectively, at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after transplantation. RESULTS Quantitative analysis showed that RGCs were significantly attenuated at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after transplantation in both areas of the retina (peripheral, P7d = 0.0011, P14d < 0.001, P28d < 0.001; central, P3d = 0.0437, P7d = 0.0067, P14d < 0.001, P28d < 0.001). Mean density of RGCs in the MSC transplantation group was significantly higher than that of the PBS control group after 14 days of treatment (P < 0.001). The homogenates BDNF (hBDNF) in the MSC transplantation group was obviously higher than that in the PBS control group at 14 and 28 days (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The MSCs transplanted into the retina of cats can slow down RGC apoptosis and steadily express BDNF. The MSC-mediated neuroprotection after optic nerve injury may be related to BNDF.
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30
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Berry M, Ahmed Z, Morgan-Warren P, Fulton D, Logan A. Prospects for mTOR-mediated functional repair after central nervous system trauma. Neurobiol Dis 2015; 85:99-110. [PMID: 26459109 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research has suggested that the growth of central nervous system (CNS) axons during development is mediated through the PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) intracellular signalling axis and that suppression of activity in this pathway occurs during maturity as levels of the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) rise and inhibit PI3K activation of mTOR, accounting for the failure of axon regeneration in the injured adult CNS. This hypothesis is supported by findings confirming that suppression of PTEN in experimental adult animals promotes impressive axon regeneration in the injured visual and corticospinal motor systems. This review focuses on these recent developments, discussing the therapeutic potential of a mTOR-based treatment aimed at promoting functional recovery in CNS trauma patients, recognising that to fulfil this ambition, the new therapy should aim to promote not only axon regeneration but also remyelination of regenerated axons, neuronal survival and re-innervation of denervated targets through accurate axonal guidance and synaptogenesis, all with minimal adverse effects. The translational challenges presented by the implementation of this new axogenic therapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Berry
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Peter Morgan-Warren
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Daniel Fulton
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ann Logan
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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31
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Van de Velde S, De Groef L, Stalmans I, Moons L, Van Hove I. Towards axonal regeneration and neuroprotection in glaucoma: Rho kinase inhibitors as promising therapeutics. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 131:105-19. [PMID: 26093354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Due to a prolonged life expectancy worldwide, the incidence of age-related neurodegenerative disorders such as glaucoma is increasing. Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness, resulting from a slow and progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Up to now, intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is the only treatment modality by which ophthalmologists attempt to control disease progression. However, not all patients benefit from this therapy, and the pathophysiology of glaucoma is not always associated with an elevated IOP. These limitations, together with the multifactorial etiology of glaucoma, urge the pressing medical need for novel and alternative treatment strategies. Such new therapies should focus on preventing or retarding RGC death, but also on repair of injured axons, to ultimately preserve or improve structural and functional connectivity. In this respect, Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors hold a promising potential to become very prominent drugs for future glaucoma treatment. Their field of action in the eye does not seem to be restricted to IOP reduction by targeting the trabecular meshwork or improving filtration surgery outcome. Indeed, over the past years, important progress has been made in elucidating their ability to improve ocular blood flow, to prevent RGC death/increase RGC survival and to retard axonal degeneration or induce proper axonal regeneration. Within this review, we aim to highlight the currently known capacity of ROCK inhibition to promote neuroprotection and regeneration in several in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experimental glaucoma models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Van de Velde
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies De Groef
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ingeborg Stalmans
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Inge Van Hove
- Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration Research Group, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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32
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The Acquisition of Target Dependence by Developing Rat Retinal Ganglion Cells. eNeuro 2015; 2:eN-NWR-0044-14. [PMID: 26464991 PMCID: PMC4586937 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0044-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Similar to neurons in the peripheral nervous system, immature CNS-derived RGCs become dependent on target-derived neurotrophic support as their axons reach termination sites in the brain. To study the factors that influence this developmental transition we took advantage of the fact that rat RGCs are born, and target innervation occurs, over a protracted period of time. Early-born RGCs have axons in the SC by birth (P0), whereas axons from late-born RGCs do not innervate the SC until P4-P5. Birth dating RGCs using EdU allowed us to identify RGCs (1) with axons still growing toward targets, (2) transitioning to target dependence, and (3) entirely dependent on target-derived support. Using laser-capture microdissection we isolated ∼34,000 EdU+ RGCs and analyzed transcript expression by custom qPCR array. Statistical analyses revealed a difference in gene expression profiles in actively growing RGCs compared with target-dependent RGCs, as well as in transitional versus target-dependent RGCs. Prior to innervation RGCs expressed high levels of BDNF and CNTFR α but lower levels of neurexin 1 mRNA. Analysis also revealed greater expression of transcripts for signaling molecules such as MAPK, Akt, CREB, and STAT. In a supporting in vitro study, purified birth-dated P1 RGCs were cultured for 24-48 h with or without BDNF; lack of BDNF resulted in significant loss of early-born but not late-born RGCs. In summary, we identified several important changes in RGC signaling that may form the basis for the switch from target independence to dependence.
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Yungher BJ, Luo X, Salgueiro Y, Blackmore MG, Park KK. Viral vector-based improvement of optic nerve regeneration: characterization of individual axons' growth patterns and synaptogenesis in a visual target. Gene Ther 2015; 22:811-21. [PMID: 26005861 PMCID: PMC4600032 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2015.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lack of axon growth ability in the central nervous system poses a major barrier to achieving functional connectivity after injury. Thus, a non-transgenic regenerative approach to reinnervating targets has important implications in clinical and research settings. Previous studies using knockout (KO) mice have demonstrated long distance axon regeneration. Using an optic nerve injury model, here we evaluate the efficacy of viral, RNAi and pharmacological approaches that target the PTEN and STAT3 pathways to improve long distance axon regeneration in wild type (WT) mice. Our data show that adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing short hairpin RNA (shRNA) against PTEN (shPTEN) enhances retinal ganglion cell axon regeneration after crush injury. However, compared to the previous data in PTEN KO mice, AAV-shRNA results in a lesser degree of regeneration, likely due to incomplete gene silencing inherent to RNAi. In comparison, an extensive enhancement in regeneration is seen when AAV-shPTEN is coupled to AAV encoding ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and to a cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) analogue, allowing axons to travel long distances and reach their target. We apply whole tissue imaging that facilitates three-dimensional visualization of single regenerating axons and document heterogeneous terminal patterns in the targets. This shows that some axonal populations generate extensive arbors and make synapses with the target neurons. Collectively, we show a combinatorial viral RNAi and pharmacological strategy that improves long distance regeneration in WT animals and provide single fiber projection data that indicates a degree of preservation of target recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Yungher
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - X Luo
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Y Salgueiro
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - M G Blackmore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - K K Park
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Growth control mechanisms in neuronal regeneration. FEBS Lett 2015; 589:1669-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2015.04.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Noro T, Namekata K, Kimura A, Guo X, Azuchi Y, Harada C, Nakano T, Tsuneoka H, Harada T. Spermidine promotes retinal ganglion cell survival and optic nerve regeneration in adult mice following optic nerve injury. Cell Death Dis 2015; 6:e1720. [PMID: 25880087 PMCID: PMC4650557 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2015.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Spermidine acts as an endogenous free radical scavenger and inhibits the action of reactive oxygen species. In this study, we examined the effects of spermidine on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in a mouse model of optic nerve injury (ONI). Daily ingestion of spermidine reduced RGC death following ONI and sequential in vivo retinal imaging revealed that spermidine effectively prevented retinal degeneration. Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (ASK1) is an evolutionarily conserved mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase and has an important role in ONI-induced RGC apoptosis. We demonstrated that spermidine suppresses ONI-induced activation of the ASK1-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Moreover, production of chemokines important for microglia recruitment was decreased with spermidine treatment and, consequently, accumulation of retinal microglia is reduced. In addition, the ONI-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in the retina was inhibited with spermidine treatment, particularly in microglia. Furthermore, daily spermidine intake enhanced optic nerve regeneration in vivo. Our findings indicate that spermidine stimulates neuroprotection as well as neuroregeneration, and may be useful for treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases including glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Noro
- 1] Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan [2] Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K Namekata
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - A Kimura
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - X Guo
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Azuchi
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - C Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - T Nakano
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Tsuneoka
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - T Harada
- Visual Research Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
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Li B, Qiu T, Iyer KS, Yan Q, Yin Y, Xie L, Wang X, Li S. PRGD/PDLLA conduit potentiates rat sciatic nerve regeneration and the underlying molecular mechanism. Biomaterials 2015; 55:44-53. [PMID: 25934451 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury requires optimal conditions in both macro-environment and micro-environment for reestablishment. Though various strategies have been carried out to improve the macro-environment, the underlying molecular mechanism of axon regeneration in the micro-environment provided by nerve conduit remains unclear. In this study, the rat sciatic nerve of 10 mm defect was made and bridged by PRGD/PDLLA nerve conduit. We investigated the process of nerve regeneration using histological, functional and real time PCR analyses after implantation from 7 to 35 days. Our data demonstrated that the ciliary neurotrophic factor highly expressed and up-regulated the downstream signaling pathways, in the case of activated signals, the expressions of axon sprout relative proteins, such as tubulin and growth-associated protein-43, were strongly augmented. Taken together, these data suggest a possible mechanism of axon regeneration promoted by PRGD/PDLLA conduit, which created a micro-environment for enhancement of diffusion of neurotrophic factors secreted by the injured nerve stumps, and activation of molecular signal transduction involved in growth cone, to potentiate the nerve recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Tong Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China.
| | - K Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA 6009, Australia
| | - Qiongjiao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Yixia Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Lijuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China
| | - Shipu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, PR China; Biomedical Materials and Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430070, PR China.
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Askvig JM, Watt JA. The MAPK and PI3K pathways mediate CNTF-induced neuronal survival and process outgrowth in hypothalamic organotypic cultures. J Cell Commun Signal 2015; 9:217-31. [PMID: 25698661 PMCID: PMC4580676 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-015-0268-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
While collateral sprouting has been shown to occur in a variety of neuronal populations, the factor or factors responsible for mediating the sprouting response remain largely un-defined. There is evidence indicating that ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) may play an important role in promoting neuronal survival and process outgrowth in neuronal phenotypes tested to date. We previously demonstrated that the astrocytic Jak-STAT pathway is necessary to mediate CNTF-induced oxytocinergic (OT) neuronal survival; however, the mechanism (s) of CNTF-mediated process outgrowth remain unknown. Our working hypothesis is that CNTF mediates differential neuroprotective responses via different intracellular signal transduction pathways. In order to test this hypothesis, we utilized stationary hypothalamic organotypic cultures to assess the contribution of the MAPK-ERK and PI3-AKT pathways to OT neuron survival and process outgrowth. Our results demonstrate that the MAPK-ERK½ pathway mediates CNTF-induced neuronal survival. Moreover, we show that inhibition of the p38-, JNK-MAPK, and mTOR pathways prevents loss OT neurons following axotomy. We also provide quantitative evidence indicating that CNTF promotes process outgrowth of OT neurons via the PI3K-AKT pathway. Together, these data indicate that distinct intracellular signaling pathways mediate diverse neuroprotective processes in response to CNTF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Askvig
- Department of Biology, Concordia College, Moorhead, MN, 56562, USA.
| | - John A Watt
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Room 1701 Stop 9037, 501 N Columbia Road, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA.
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Cui Q, Ren C, Sollars PJ, Pickard GE, So KF. The injury resistant ability of melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. Neuroscience 2014; 284:845-853. [PMID: 25446359 PMCID: PMC4637166 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurons in the mammalian retina expressing the photopigment melanopsin have been identified as a class of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). This discovery more than a decade ago has opened up an exciting new field of retinal research, and following the initial identification of photosensitive ganglion cells, several subtypes have been described. A number of studies have shown that ipRGCs subserve photoentrainment of circadian rhythms. They also influence other non-image forming functions of the visual system, such as the pupillary light reflex, sleep, cognition, mood, light aversion and development of the retina. These novel photosensitive neurons also influence form vision by contributing to contrast detection. Furthermore, studies have shown that ipRGCs are more injury-resistant following optic nerve injury, in animal models of glaucoma, and in patients with mitochondrial optic neuropathies, i.e., Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy and dominant optic atrophy. There is also an indication that these cells may be resistant to glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. Herein we provide an overview of ipRGCs and discuss the injury-resistant character of these neurons under certain pathological and experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Cui
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Medical Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China; GHM Collaboration and Innovation Center for Tissue Regeneration and Repair, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - C Ren
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Medical Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China; GHM Collaboration and Innovation Center for Tissue Regeneration and Repair, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - P J Sollars
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA
| | - G E Pickard
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - K-F So
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Medical Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China; GHM Collaboration and Innovation Center for Tissue Regeneration and Repair, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Sengottuvel V, Fischer D. Facilitating axon regeneration in the injured CNS by microtubules stabilization. Commun Integr Biol 2014. [DOI: 10.4161/cib.15552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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So KF, Leung MCP, Cui Q. Effects of low level laser treatment on the survival of axotomized retinal ganglion cells in adult Hamsters. Neural Regen Res 2014; 9:1863-9. [PMID: 25558230 PMCID: PMC4281419 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.145337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Injury to axons close to the neuronal bodies in the mammalian central nervous system causes a large proportion of parenting neurons to degenerate. It is known that optic nerve transection close to the eye in rodents leads to a loss of about half of retinal ganglion cells in 1 week and about 90% in 2 weeks. Using low level laser treatment in the present study, we demonstrated that treatment with helium-neon (660 nm) laser with 15 mW power could delay retinal ganglion cell death after optic nerve axotomy in adult hamsters. The effect was most apparent in the first week with a short period of treatment time (5 minutes) in which 65-66% of retinal ganglion cells survived the optic nerve axotomy whereas 45-47% of retinal ganglion cells did so in optic nerve axotomy controls. We also found that single dose and early commencement of laser irradiation were important in protecting retinal ganglion cells following optic nerve axotomy. These findings thus convincingly show that appropriate laser treatment may be neuroprotective to retinal ganglion cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwok-Fai So
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China ; Department of Anatomy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China ; Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Mason Chin Pang Leung
- Department of Anatomy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China ; Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Qi Cui
- GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Wong M, Li Y, Li S, Zhang S, Li W, Zhang P, Chen C, Barnstable CJ, Zhang SS, Zhang C, Huang P. Therapeutic Retrobulbar Inhibition of STAT3 Protects Ischemic Retina Ganglion Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 52:1364-1377. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8945-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Mathews MK, Guo Y, Langenberg P, Bernstein SL. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF)-mediated ganglion cell survival in a rodent model of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Br J Ophthalmol 2014; 99:133-7. [PMID: 25336580 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2014-305969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been shown to protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in traumatic optic nerve injury. We sought to evaluate this neuroprotective effect of CNTF after an ischaemic event using rodent anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (rAION), a mouse model of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION). METHODS We induced rAION in Thy1-cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) transgenic mice by exposing the optic nerve to frequency doubled neodymium yttrium aluminium garnet laser pulses following intravenous rose bengal injection. One day after rAION induction, an intravitreal injection of 0.75 μg CNTF or vehicle (sham injection) was given. Animals were euthanised on day 15 after induction, tissues isolated and CFP cells in the RGC layer were counted using stereology in flat-mounted retina. The average number of CFP-positive (CFP+) cells was determined for each study group and the percentages of RGC loss were compared between the different groups. RESULTS Two weeks after rAION induction, significantly more (CFP+) cells were preserved in CNTF-treated eyes than in sham-injected controls. Sham-treated animals showed a 58% loss of CFP+ cells. In contrast, CFP+ cell density in CNTF-treated eyes decreased by only 10%, when compared with untreated control eyes. This increased survival was statistically significant (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS CNTF exerts a neuroprotective effect in ischaemic optic nerve injury and promotes RGC survival, suggesting that CNTF may be effective in the clinical treatment of human NAION.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela K Mathews
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Patricia Langenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven L Bernstein
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Ogai K, Kuwana A, Hisano S, Nagashima M, Koriyama Y, Sugitani K, Mawatari K, Nakashima H, Kato S. Upregulation of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) during the early stage of optic nerve regeneration in zebrafish. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106010. [PMID: 25162623 PMCID: PMC4146584 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fish retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) can regenerate their axons after optic nerve injury, whereas mammalian RGCs normally fail to do so. Interleukin 6 (IL-6)-type cytokines are involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, survival, and axon regrowth; thus, they may play a role in the regeneration of zebrafish RGCs after injury. In this study, we assessed the expression of IL-6-type cytokines and found that one of them, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), is upregulated in zebrafish RGCs at 3 days post-injury (dpi). We then demonstrated the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a downstream target of LIF, at 3–5 dpi. To determine the function of LIF, we performed a LIF knockdown experiment using LIF-specific antisense morpholino oligonucleotides (LIF MOs). LIF MOs, which were introduced into zebrafish RGCs via a severed optic nerve, reduced the expression of LIF and abrogated the activation of STAT3 in RGCs after injury. These results suggest that upregulated LIF drives Janus kinase (Jak)/STAT3 signaling in zebrafish RGCs after nerve injury. In addition, the LIF knockdown impaired axon sprouting in retinal explant culture invitro; reduced the expression of a regeneration-associated molecule, growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43); and delayed functional recovery after optic nerve injury invivo. In this study, we comprehensively demonstrate the beneficial role of LIF in optic nerve regeneration and functional recovery in adult zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Ogai
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
- Wellness Promotion Science Center, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Ayaka Kuwana
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Suguru Hisano
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Mikiko Nagashima
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Koriyama
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
- Graduate School and Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka, Mie, Japan
| | - Kayo Sugitani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Mawatari
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nakashima
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Satoru Kato
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Ueda K, Nakahara T, Akanuma K, Mori A, Sakamoto K, Ishii K. Differential effects of LY294002 and wortmannin on neurons and vascular endothelial cells in the rat retina. Pharmacol Rep 2014; 65:854-62. [PMID: 24145079 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(13)71066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuronal damage leads to capillary degeneration in an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-induced retinal degeneration model; however, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are not fully understood. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway has been recognized as an intracellular pro-survival signaling system. Therefore, we used the PI3K inhibitors LY294002 and wortmannin to investigate the role of this pathway in neuronal and blood vessel injury in the rat retina treated with NMDA. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 220-240 g were used in this study. NMDA combined with LY294002, wortmannin, or vehicle was administered intravitreally, and histological evaluation was performed at 2 and 7 days after injection. The effects of LY294002 or wortmannin alone were also evaluated. RESULTS The number of cells in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) was significantly reduced at 2 and 7 days after intravitreal injection of NMDA, whereas enhanced capillary degeneration was observed at 7 days. Simultaneous injection of LY294002 with NMDA significantly attenuated NMDA-induced retinal cell loss and capillary degeneration at 7 days. However, simultaneous injection of wortmannin with NMDA did not affect cell loss, but enhanced capillary degeneration. Treatment with LY294002 alone showed no effect on neuronal or vascular cells, whereas wortmannin induced capillary degeneration without significantly affecting the cell number in the GCL. CONCLUSIONS Although both LY294002 and wortmannin are known as PI3K inhibitors, they exhibit differential effects on neurons and vascular endothelial cells in the rat retina. Therefore, the results obtained using these inhibitors should be carefully interpreted. However, our finding that LY294002 was protective against NMDA-induced retinal damage suggests that this compound may be an effective candidate for preventing the development of retinal diseases associated with glutamate-induced excitotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Ueda
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Kitasato University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5-9-1 Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan.
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Cyclic AMP and the regeneration of retinal ganglion cell axons. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 56:66-73. [PMID: 24796847 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we present a brief review of studies that have reported therapeutic benefits of elevated cAMP on plasticity and regeneration after injury to the central nervous system (CNS). We also provide new data on the cellular mechanisms by which elevation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) promotes cytokine driven regeneration of adult CNS axons, using the visual system as the experimental model. cAMP is a second messenger for many intracellular signalling pathways. Elevation of cAMP in the eye by intravitreal injection of the cell permeant analogue (8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate; CPT-cAMP), when added to recombinant ciliary neurotrophic factor (rCNTF), significantly enhances rCNTF-induced regeneration of adult rat retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons into peripheral nerve (PN) grafted onto transected optic nerve. This effect is mediated to some extent by protein kinase A (PKA) signalling, but CPT-cAMP also acts via PI3K/Akt signalling to reduce suppressor of cytokine signalling protein 3 (SOCS3) activity in RGCs. Another target for cAMP is the exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac), which can also mediate cAMP-induced axonal growth. Here we describe some novel results and discuss to what extent the pro-regenerative effects of CPT-cAMP on adult RGCs are mediated via Epac as well as via PKA-dependent pathways. We used the established PN-optic nerve graft model and quantified the survival and regenerative growth of adult rat RGCs after intravitreal injection of rCNTF in combination with a selective activator of PKA and/or a specific activator of Epac. Viable RGCs were identified by βIII-tubulin immunohistochemistry and regenerating RGCs retrogradely labelled and quantified after an injection of fluorogold into the distal end of the PN grafts, 4 weeks post-transplantation. The specific agonists of either PKA or Epac were both effective in enhancing the effects of rCNTF on RGC axonal regeneration, but interestingly, injections that combined rCNTF with both agonists were significantly less effective. The results are discussed in relation to previous CPT-cAMP studies on RGCs, and we also consider the need to modulate cAMP levels in order to obtain the most functionally effective regenerative response after CNS trauma. This article is part of a directed issue entitled: Regenerative Medicine: the challenge of translation.
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Vega-Meléndez GS, Blagburn JM, Blanco RE. Ciliary neurotrophic factor and fibroblast growth factor increase the speed and number of regenerating axons after optic nerve injury in adult Rana pipiens. J Neurosci Res 2013; 92:13-23. [PMID: 24166589 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins such as ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and growth factors such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) play important roles in neuronal survival and in axonal outgrowth during development. However, whether they can modulate regeneration after optic nerve injury in the adult animal is less clear. The present study investigates the effects of application of these neurotrophic factors on the speed, number, and distribution of regenerating axons in the frog Rana pipiens after optic nerve crush. Optic nerves were crushed and the factors, or phosphate-buffered saline, were applied to the stump or intraocularly. The nerves were examined at different times after axotomy, using anterograde labeling with biotin dextran amine and antibody against growth-associated protein 43. We measured the length, number, and distribution of axons projecting beyond the lesion site. Untreated regenerating axons show an increase in elongation rate over 3 weeks. CNTF more than doubles this rate, FGF-2 increases it, and BDNF has little effect. In contrast, the numbers of regenerating axons that have reached 200 μm at 2 weeks were more than doubled by FGF-2, increased by CNTF, and barely affected by BDNF. The regenerating axons were preferentially distributed in the periphery of the nerve; although the numbers of axons were increased by neurotrophic factor application, this overall distribution was substantially unaffected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giam S Vega-Meléndez
- Institute of Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Leibinger M, Andreadaki A, Diekmann H, Fischer D. Neuronal STAT3 activation is essential for CNTF- and inflammatory stimulation-induced CNS axon regeneration. Cell Death Dis 2013; 4:e805. [PMID: 24052073 PMCID: PMC3789169 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2013.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
CNS neurons, such as retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), do not normally regenerate injured axons, but instead undergo apoptotic cell death. Regenerative failure is due to inhibitory factors in the myelin and forming glial scar as well as due to an insufficient intrinsic capability of mature neurons to regrow axons. Nevertheless, RGCs can be transformed into an active regenerative state upon inflammatory stimulation (IS) in the inner eye, for instance by lens injury, enabling these RGCs to survive axotomy and to regenerate axons into the lesioned optic nerve. The beneficial effects of IS are mediated by various factors, including CNTF, LIF and IL-6. Consistently, IS activates various signaling pathways, such as JAK/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, in several retinal cell types. Using a conditional knockdown approach to specifically delete STAT3 in adult RGCs, we investigated the role of STAT3 in IS-induced neuroprotection and axon regeneration. Conditional STAT3 knockdown in RGCs did not affect the survival of RGCs after optic nerve injury compared with controls, but significantly reduced the neuroprotective effects of IS. STAT3 depletion significantly compromised CNTF-stimulated neurite growth in culture and IS-induced transformation of RGCs into an active regenerative state in vivo. As a consequence, IS-mediated axonal regeneration into the injured optic nerve was almost completely abolished in mice with STAT3 depleted in RGCs. In conclusion, STAT3 activation in RGCs is involved in neuroprotection and is a necessary prerequisite for optic nerve regeneration upon IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Leibinger
- Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Merowingerplatz 1a, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Pernet V, Joly S, Jordi N, Dalkara D, Guzik-Kornacka A, Flannery JG, Schwab ME. Misguidance and modulation of axonal regeneration by Stat3 and Rho/ROCK signaling in the transparent optic nerve. Cell Death Dis 2013; 4:e734. [PMID: 23868067 PMCID: PMC3730436 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2013.266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The use of the visual system played a major role in the elucidation of molecular mechanisms controlling axonal regeneration in the injured CNS after trauma. In this model, CNTF was shown to be the most potent known neurotrophic factor for axonal regeneration in the injured optic nerve. To clarify the role of the downstream growth regulator Stat3, we analyzed axonal regeneration and neuronal survival after an optic nerve crush in adult mice. The infection of retinal ganglion cells with adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2) containing wild-type (Stat3-wt) or constitutively active (Stat3-ca) Stat3 cDNA promoted axonal regeneration in the injured optic nerve. Axonal growth was analyzed in whole-mounted optic nerves in three dimensions (3D) after tissue clearing. Surprisingly, with AAV2.Stat3-ca stimulation, axons elongating beyond the lesion site displayed very irregular courses, including frequent U-turns, suggesting massive directionality and guidance problems. The pharmacological blockade of ROCK, a key signaling component for myelin-associated growth inhibitors, reduced axonal U-turns and potentiated AAV2.Stat3-ca-induced regeneration. Similar results were obtained after the sustained delivery of CNTF in the axotomized retina. These results show the important role of Stat3 in the activation of the neuronal growth program for regeneration, and they reveal that axonal misguidance is a key limiting factor that can affect long-distance regeneration and target interaction after trauma in the CNS. The correction of axonal misguidance was associated with improved long-distance axon regeneration in the injured adult CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Pernet
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zürich and Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Huang C, Cen LP, Liu L, Leaver SG, Harvey AR, Cui Q, Pang CP, Zhang M. Adeno-associated virus-mediated expression of growth-associated protein-43 aggravates retinal ganglion cell death in experimental chronic glaucomatous injury. Mol Vis 2013; 19:1422-32. [PMID: 23825922 PMCID: PMC3695761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine whether adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated overexpression of growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43) has protective or deleterious effects on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival in laser-induced chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation injury. METHODS Adult Fischer 344 rats received unilateral intravitreal injection of either normal saline, AAV-green fluorescent protein (AAV-GFP), or a bicistronic AAV vector encoding GAP-43 and GFP (AAV-GAP-43). Two weeks later, experimental chronic glaucoma was induced in the injected eyes by scarring the trabecular meshwork with a diode laser. IOP was measured with an impact (rebound) tonometer. Survival of RGCs was estimated after 3 weeks of IOP elevation by quantifying β-III tubulin⁺ neurons in retinal whole mounts. The transfection efficiency of target genes was assessed with direct view of GFP and western blot analysis of GAP-43. RESULTS Quantification of β-III tubulin⁺ immunostaining revealed that, compared to uninjured eyes (1,172±80 cells/mm²), 3 weeks of laser-induced IOP elevation led to a 60% decline in RGC survival (496±136 cells/mm²). Transfection with control vector AAV-GFP by itself did not have a significant effect on RGC viability (468±124 cells/mm²). Overexpression of GAP-43 in RGC cell bodies and axons via bicistronic AAV-GAP-43 led to more severe RGC death (260±112 cells/mm²) in IOP elevated eyes, an 80% loss of the total RGC population. CONCLUSIONS Overexpression of GAP-43 aggravated RGC death in experimental chronic IOP elevation injury. GAP-43 was upregulated in RGCs regenerating after optic nerve injury. Thus, the finding that this same protein is deleterious to RGC viability after chronic IOP elevation may aid in understanding the mechanisms involved in RGC loss in glaucoma and how best to treat this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukai Huang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China
| | - Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China
| | - Lifang Liu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China
| | - Simone G. Leaver
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Alan R. Harvey
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Qi Cui
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou, P. R. China
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Paxillin phosphorylation counteracts proteoglycan-mediated inhibition of axon regeneration. Exp Neurol 2013; 248:157-69. [PMID: 23797153 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2013.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In the adult central nervous system, the tips of axons severed by injury are commonly transformed into dystrophic endballs and cease migration upon encountering a rising concentration gradient of inhibitory proteoglycans. However, intracellular signaling networks mediating endball migration failure remain largely unknown. Here we show that manipulation of protein kinase A (PKA) or its downstream adhesion component paxillin can reactivate the locomotive machinery of endballs in vitro and facilitate axon growth after injury in vivo. In dissociated cultures of adult rat dorsal root ganglion neurons, PKA is activated in endballs formed on gradients of the inhibitory proteoglycan aggrecan, and pharmacological inhibition of PKA promotes axon growth on aggrecan gradients most likely through phosphorylation of paxillin at serine 301. Remarkably, pre-formed endballs on aggrecan gradients resume forward migration in response to PKA inhibition. This resumption of endball migration is associated with increased turnover of adhesive point contacts dependent upon paxillin phosphorylation. Furthermore, expression of phosphomimetic paxillin overcomes aggrecan-mediated growth arrest of endballs, and facilitates axon growth after optic nerve crush in vivo. These results point to the importance of adhesion dynamics in restoring endball migration and suggest a potential therapeutic target for axon tract repair.
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