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Jiang W, He S, Liu L, Meng X, Lu J, Li J, Chen T, Xu Y, Xiao Q, Qi L, Zhang J. New insights on the role of microRNAs in retinal Müller glial cell function. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:329-335. [PMID: 37751989 PMCID: PMC10894836 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2023-324132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs belong to the family of non-coding RNAs that participate in cell proliferation, cell death and development. The Müller glial cells are the inherent and specific neuroglia cells in the retinal organisation and play significant roles in retinal neuroprotection, organisational maintenance, inflammation and immunity, regeneration, and the occurrence and development of retinal diseases. However, only a few studies report the underlying mechanism of how miRNAs drive the function of Müller glial cells in the development of retinal diseases. This review aims to summarise the roles of miRNAs in retinal Müller glial cell function, including gliogenesis, inflammation and immunity, regeneration, the development of retinal diseases, and retinal development. This review may point out a novel miRNA-based insight into retinal repair and regeneration. MiRNAs in Müller glial cells may be considered a diagnostic and therapeutic target in the process of retinal repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Jiang
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Siqi He
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Logen Liu
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xia Meng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Tuo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of Central Nervous System Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiguo Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Qi
- Institute of Digestive Disease, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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Chen D, Sun YY, Zhou LY, Han X, Yang S, Hong FY, Yuan Y, Wu XH, Huang GH, Cheng YC, Huang J, Feng DF. Knockdown of Porf-2 restores visual function after optic nerve crush injury. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:570. [PMID: 37640747 PMCID: PMC10462692 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06087-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the sole output neurons in the eyes, are vulnerable to diverse insults in many pathological conditions, which can lead to permanent vision dysfunction. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to protecting RGCs and their axons from injuries are not completely known. Here, we identify that Porf-2, a member of the Rho GTPase activating protein gene group, is upregulated in RGCs after optic nerve crush. Knockdown of Porf-2 protects RGCs from apoptosis and promotes long-distance optic nerve regeneration after crush injury in both young and aged mice in vivo. In vitro, we find that inhibition of Porf-2 induces axon growth and growth cone formation in retinal explants. Inhibition of Porf-2 provides long-term and post-injury protection to RGCs and eventually promotes the recovery of visual function after crush injury in mice. These findings reveal a neuroprotective impact of the inhibition of Porf-2 on RGC survival and axon regeneration after optic nerve injury, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for vision restoration in patients with traumatic optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Chen
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201999, China
| | - Yi-Yu Sun
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
| | - Lai-Yang Zhou
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
| | - Xu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Fei-Yang Hong
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Wu
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Guo-Hui Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201999, China
| | - Yuan-Chi Cheng
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China
| | - Ju Huang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Dong-Fu Feng
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai, 201499, China.
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3
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Si TE, Li Z, Zhang J, Su S, Liu Y, Chen S, Peng GH, Cao J, Zang W. Epigenetic mechanisms of Müller glial reprogramming mediating retinal regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1157893. [PMID: 37397254 PMCID: PMC10309042 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1157893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal degenerative diseases, characterized by retinal neuronal death and severe vision loss, affect millions of people worldwide. One of the most promising treatment methods for retinal degenerative diseases is to reprogram non-neuronal cells into stem or progenitor cells, which then have the potential to re-differentiate to replace the dead neurons, thereby promoting retinal regeneration. Müller glia are the major glial cell type and play an important regulatory role in retinal metabolism and retinal cell regeneration. Müller glia can serve as a source of neurogenic progenitor cells in organisms with the ability to regenerate the nervous system. Current evidence points toward the reprogramming process of Müller glia, involving changes in the expression of pluripotent factors and other key signaling molecules that may be regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. This review summarizes recent knowledge of epigenetic modifications involved in the reprogramming process of Müller glia and the subsequent changes to gene expression and the outcomes. In living organisms, epigenetic mechanisms mainly include DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA-mediated miRNA degradation, all of which play a crucial role in the reprogramming process of Müller glia. The information presented in this review will improve the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the Müller glial reprogramming process and provide a research basis for the development of Müller glial reprogramming therapy for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-En Si
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhixiao Li
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Songxue Su
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yupeng Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shiyue Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Hua Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Mead B, Tomarev S. The role of miRNA in retinal ganglion cell health and disease. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:516-522. [PMID: 34380881 PMCID: PMC8504366 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.320974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNA are short non-coding RNA responsible for the knockdown of proteins through their targeting and silencing of complimentary mRNA sequences. The miRNA landscape of a cell thus affects the levels of its proteins and has significant consequences to its health. Deviations in this miRNA landscape have been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases and have also garnered interest as targets for treatment. Retinal ganglion cells are the sole projection neuron of the retina with their axons making up the optic nerve. They are a focus of study not only for their importance in vision and the myriad of blinding diseases characterized by their dysfunction and loss, but also as a model of other central nervous system diseases such as spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. This review summarizes current knowledge on the role of miRNA in retinal ganglion cell function, highlighting how perturbations can result in disease, and how modulating their abundance may provide a novel avenue of therapeutic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Mead
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stanislav Tomarev
- Section of Retinal Ganglion Cell Biology, Laboratory of Retinal Cell and Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Chen D, Sun YY, Zhou LY, Yang S, Hong FY, Liu XD, Sun ZL, Huang J, Feng DF. Maf1 regulates axonal regeneration of retinal ganglion cells after injury. Exp Neurol 2021; 348:113948. [PMID: 34902358 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are the sole output neurons that carry visual information from the eye to the brain. Due to various retinal and optic nerve diseases, RGC somas and axons are vulnerable to damage and lose their regenerative capacity. A basic question is whether the manipulation of a key regulator of RGC survival can protect RGCs from retinal and optic nerve diseases. Here, we found that Maf1, a general transcriptional regulator, was upregulated in RGCs from embryonic stage to adulthood. We determined that the knockdown of Maf1 promoted the survival of RGCs and their axon regeneration through altering the activity of the PTEN/mTOR pathway, which could be blocked by rapamycin. We further observed that the inhibition of Maf1 prevented the retinal ganglion cell complex from thinning after optic nerve crush. These findings reveal a neuroprotective effect of knocking down Maf1 on RGC survival after injury and provide a potential therapeutic strategy for traumatic optic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Chen
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Yi-Yu Sun
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Lai-Yang Zhou
- Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Fei-Yang Hong
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xian-Dong Liu
- Shanghai Ruijin hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200020, China
| | - Zhao-Liang Sun
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Ju Huang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Dong-Fu Feng
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China; Southern Medical University Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, Shanghai 201499, China.
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Du YL, Sergeeva EG, Stein DG. Visual recovery following optic nerve crush in male and female wild-type and TRIF-deficient mice. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2021; 38:355-368. [PMID: 32986632 DOI: 10.3233/rnn-201019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence that the TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) pathway is implicated in the modulation of neuroinflammation following injuries to the brain and retina. After exposure to injury or to excitotoxic pathogens, toll-like receptors (TLR) activate the innate immune system signaling cascade and stimulate the release of inflammatory cytokines. Inhibition of the TLR4 receptor has been shown to enhance retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival in optic nerve crush (ONC) and in ischemic injury to other parts of the brain. OBJECTIVE Based on this evidence, we tested the hypothesis that mice with the TRIF gene knocked out (TKO) will demonstrate decreased inflammatory responses and greater functional recovery after ONC. METHODS Four experimental groups -TKO ONC (12 males and 8 females), WT ONC (10 males and 8 females), TKO sham (9 males and 5 females), and WT sham (7 males and 5 females) -were used as subjects. Visual evoked potentials (VEP) were recorded in the left and right primary visual cortices and optomotor response were assessed in all mice at 14, 30, and 80 days after ONC. GFAP and Iba-1 were used as markers for astrocytes and microglial cells respectively at 7 days after ONC, along with NF-kB to measure inflammatory effects downstream of TRIF activation; RMPBS marker was used to visualize RGC survival and GAP-43 was used as a marker of regenerating optic nerve axons at 30 days after ONC. RESULTS We found reduced inflammatory response in the retina at 7 days post-ONC, less RGC loss and greater axonal regeneration 30 days post-ONC, and better recovery of visual function 80 days post-ONC in TKO mice compared to WT mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that the TRIF pathway is involved in post-ONC inflammatory response and gliosis and that deletion of TRIF induces better RGC survival and regeneration and better functional recovery in mice. Our results suggest the TRIF pathway as a potential therapeutic target for reducing the inflammatory damage caused by nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Lina Du
- Emory University College of Arts and Sciences, Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program, GA, USA
| | - Elena G Sergeeva
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Donald G Stein
- Emory University College of Arts and Sciences, Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program, GA, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Liu D, Deng Q, Lei X, Lu W, Zhao Q, Shen Y. Overexpression of BMP4 protects retinal ganglion cells in a mouse model of experimental glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108728. [PMID: 34390734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Activation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 4 signaling promotes the survival of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) after acute injury. Chordin-like 1 (CHRDL1) is an endogenous BMP antagonist. In this study, we researched whether CHRDL1 was involved in BMP4 signaling and regulation of RGC degeneration in a mouse model of glaucoma. METHODS Magnetic microbeads were intracameral injected to induce experimental glaucoma in a mouse model. A recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) system was designed for overexpression of BMP4 or CHRDL1 in mouse retina. Immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) stains were performed to identify changes in retinal morphology. Electroretinogram (ERG) recordings were used to assess changes in visual function. RESULTS The mRNA expression levels of Bmp4 and its downstream BMPRIa, small mothers against decapentaplegic 1 (Smad1), were significantly upregulated in retinas with glaucoma. RGC survival was significantly enhanced in the beads + AAV-BMP4 group and significantly reduced in the beads + AAV-CHRDL1 group, compared with the beads + AAV-EGFP group. Similar results were observed in retinal explant culture in vitro. Consistent with these findings, the photopic negative response (PhNR)responses in ERG, which indicate RGC function, were restored in mice overexpressing BMP4, whereas a-wave and b-wave responses were not. Activation of CHRLD1 inhibited Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and exacerbated RGC damage. The expression of Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was decreased significantly in beads + AAV-BMP4 group. CONCLUSIONS BMP4 promoted RGC survival and visual function in an experimental glaucoma model. Activation of CHRDL1 exaggerated RGC degeneration by inhibiting the BMP4/Smad1/5/8 pathway. The mechanism of BMP4/Smad1/5/8 pathway may be related to the inhibition of glial cell activation. Our studies suggested that BMP4 and CHRLD1 might serve as therapeutic targets in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Liu
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qinqin Deng
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Xinlan Lei
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qingqing Zhao
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Yin Shen
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China; Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China.
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Yang M, Jian L, Fan W, Chen X, Zou H, Huang Y, Chen X, Zhou YG, Yuan R. Axon regeneration after optic nerve injury in rats can be improved via PirB knockdown in the retina. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:158. [PMID: 34380548 PMCID: PMC8359350 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00670-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the central nervous system (CNS), three types of myelin-associated inhibitors (MAIs) exert major inhibitory effects on nerve regeneration: Nogo-A, myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), and oligodendrocyte-myelin glycoprotein (OMgp). MAIs have two co-receptors, Nogo receptor (NgR) and paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B (PirB). Existing studies confirm that inhibiting NgR only exerted a modest disinhibitory effect in CNS. However, the inhibitory effects of PirB on nerve regeneration after binding to MAIs are controversial too. We aimed to further investigate the effect of PirB knockdown on the neuroprotection and axonal regeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve injury in rats. METHODS The differential expression of PirB in the retina was observed via immunofluorescence and western blotting after 1, 3, and 7 days of optic nerve injury (ONI). The retina was locally transfected with adeno-associated virus (AAV) PirB shRNA, then, the distribution of virus in tissues and cells was observed 21 days after AAV transfection to confirm the efficiency of PirB knockdown. Level of P-Stat3 and expressions of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) were detected via western blotting. RGCs were directly labeled with cholera toxin subunit B (CTB). The new axons of the optic nerve were specifically labeled with growth associated protein-43 (GAP43) via immunofluorescence. Flash visual evoked potential (FVEP) was used to detect the P1 and N1 latency, as well as N1-P1, P1-N2 amplitude to confirm visual function. RESULTS PirB expression in the retina was significantly increased after ONI. PirB knockdown was successful and significantly promoted P-Stat3 level and CNTF expression in the retina. PirB knockdown promoted the regeneration of optic nerve axons and improved the visual function indexes such as N1-P1 and P1-N2 amplitude. CONCLUSIONS PirB is one of the key molecules that inhibit the regeneration of the optic nerve, and inhibition of PirB has an excellent effect on promoting nerve regeneration, which allows the use of PirB as a target molecule to promote functional recovery after ONI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Jian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Chen
- The Molecular Biology Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanming Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Guo Zhou
- The Molecular Biology Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Research Institute of Surgery and Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10 Changjiang Zhilu, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China.
| | - Rongdi Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Zhengjie, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400037, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
The retina is among the most metabolically active tissues with high-energy demands. The peculiar distribution of mitochondria in cells of retinal layers is necessary to assure the appropriate energy supply for the transmission of the light signal. Photoreceptor cells (PRs), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) present a great concentration of mitochondria, which makes them particularly sensitive to mitochondrial dysfunction. To date, visual loss has been extensively correlated to defective mitochondrial functions. Many mitochondrial diseases (MDs) show indeed neuro-ophthalmic manifestations, including retinal and optic nerve phenotypes. Moreover, abnormal mitochondrial functions are frequently found in the most common retinal pathologies, i.e., glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy (DR), that share clinical similarities with the hereditary primary MDs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are established as key regulators of several developmental, physiological, and pathological processes. Dysregulated miRNA expression profiles in retinal degeneration models and in patients underline the potentiality of miRNA modulation as a possible gene/mutation-independent strategy in retinal diseases and highlight their promising role as disease predictive or prognostic biomarkers. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge about the participation of miRNAs in both rare and common mitochondria-mediated eye diseases. Definitely, given the involvement of miRNAs in retina pathologies and therapy as well as their use as molecular biomarkers, they represent a determining target for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Filomena Massa
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Indrieri
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Naples, Italy.,Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research, National Research Council (CNR), Milan, Italy
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10
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Fudalej E, Justyniarska M, Kasarełło K, Dziedziak J, Szaflik JP, Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska A. Neuroprotective Factors of the Retina and Their Role in Promoting Survival of Retinal Ganglion Cells: A Review. Ophthalmic Res 2021; 64:345-355. [PMID: 33454713 DOI: 10.1159/000514441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) play a crucial role in the visual pathway. As their axons form the optic nerve, apoptosis of these cells causes neurodegenerative vision loss. RGC death could be triggered by increased intraocular pressure, advanced glycation end products, or mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the role of some neuroprotective factors in RGC injury: ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, pigment epithelium-derived factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, and Norrin. Each, in their own unique way, prevents RGC damage caused by glaucoma, ocular hypertension, ischemic neuropathy, and even oxygen-induced retinopathy. These factors are produced mainly by neurons, leukocytes, glial cells, and epithelial cells. Neuroprotective factors act via various signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, MAPK, TrkA, and TrkB, which promotes RGC survival. Many attempts have been made to develop therapeutic strategies using these factors. There are ongoing clinical trials with CNTF and NGF, but they have not yet been accepted for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Fudalej
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Justyniarska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kaja Kasarełło
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland,
| | - Jacek Dziedziak
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Ophthalmology, SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek P Szaflik
- Department of Ophthalmology, SPKSO Ophthalmic University Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Macchioni L, Chiasserini D, Mezzasoma L, Davidescu M, Orvietani PL, Fettucciari K, Salviati L, Cellini B, Bellezza I. Crosstalk between Long-Term Sublethal Oxidative Stress and Detrimental Inflammation as Potential Drivers for Age-Related Retinal Degeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 10:E25. [PMID: 33383836 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related retinal degenerations, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), are caused by the loss of retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells and photoreceptors. The pathogenesis of AMD, deeply linked to the aging process, also involves oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. However, the molecular mechanisms contributing to the shift from healthy aging to AMD are still poorly understood. Since RPE cells in the retina are chronically exposed to a pro-oxidant microenvironment throughout life, we simulated in vivo conditions by growing ARPE-19 cells in the presence of 10 μM H2O2 for several passages. This long-term oxidative insult induced senescence in ARPE-19 cells without affecting cell proliferation. Global proteomic analysis revealed a dysregulated expression in proteins involved in antioxidant response, mitochondrial homeostasis, and extracellular matrix organization. The analyses of mitochondrial functionality showed increased mitochondrial biogenesis and ATP generation and improved response to oxidative stress. The latter, however, was linked to nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) rather than nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation. NF-κB hyperactivation also resulted in increased pro-inflammatory cytokines expression and inflammasome activation. Moreover, in response to additional pro-inflammatory insults, senescent ARPE-19 cells underwent an exaggerated inflammatory reaction. Our results indicate senescence as an important link between chronic oxidative insult and detrimental chronic inflammation, with possible future repercussions for therapeutic interventions.
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Deng CL, Hu CB, Ling ST, Zhao N, Bao LH, Zhou F, Xiong YC, Chen T, Sui BD, Yu XR, Hu CH. Photoreceptor protection by mesenchymal stem cell transplantation identifies exosomal MiR-21 as a therapeutic for retinal degeneration. Cell Death Differ 2021; 28:1041-61. [PMID: 33082517 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-00636-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptor apoptosis is recognized as one key pathogenesis of retinal degeneration, the counteraction of which represents a promising approach to safeguard visual function. Recently, mesenchymal stem cell transplantation (MSCT) has demonstrated immense potential to treat ocular disorders, in which extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly exosomes, have emerged as effective ophthalmological therapeutics. However, whether and how MSCT protects photoreceptors against apoptotic injuries remains largely unknown. Here, we discovered that intravitreal MSCT counteracted photoreceptor apoptosis and alleviated retinal morphological and functional degeneration in a mouse model of photoreceptor loss induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU). Interestingly, effects of MSCT were inhibited after blockade of exosomal generation by GW4869 preconditioning. Furthermore, MSC-derived exosomal transplantation (EXOT) effectively suppressed MNU-provoked photoreceptor injury. Notably, therapeutic efficacy of MSCT and EXOT on MNU-induced retinal degeneration was long-lasting as photoreceptor preservance and retinal maintenance were detected even after 1–2 months post to injection for only once. More importantly, using a natural occurring retinal degeneration model caused by a nonsense mutation of Phosphodiesterase 6b gene (Pde6bmut), we confirmed that MSCT and EXOT prevented photoreceptor loss and protected long-term retinal function. In deciphering therapeutic mechanisms regarding potential exosome-mediated communications, we identified that miR-21 critically maintained photoreceptor viability against MNU injury by targeting programmed cell death 4 (Pdcd4) and was transferred from MSC-derived exosomes in vivo for functional regulation. Moreover, miR-21 deficiency aggravated MNU-driven retinal injury and was restrained by EXOT. Further experiments revealed that miR-21 mediated therapeutic effects of EXOT on MNU-induced photoreceptor apoptosis and retinal dysfunction. These findings uncovered the efficacy and mechanism of MSCT-based photoreceptor protection, indicating exosomal miR-21 as a therapeutic for retinal degeneration.
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Locri F, Cammalleri M, Dal Monte M, Rusciano D, Bagnoli P. Protective Efficacy of a Dietary Supplement Based on Forskolin, Homotaurine, Spearmint Extract, and Group B Vitamins in a Mouse Model of Optic Nerve Injury. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11122931. [PMID: 31816880 PMCID: PMC6950150 DOI: 10.3390/nu11122931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a multifactorial blinding disease with a major inflammatory component ultimately leading to apoptotic retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death. Pharmacological treatments lowering intraocular pressure can help slow or prevent vision loss although the damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Recently, nutritional approaches have been evaluated for their efficacy in preventing degenerative events in the retina although mechanisms underlying their effectiveness remain to be elucidated. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of a diet supplement consisting of forskolin, homotaurine, spearmint extract, and vitamins of the B group in counteracting retinal dysfunction in a mouse model of optic nerve crush (ONC) used as an in vivo model of glaucoma. After demonstrating that ONC did not affect retinal vasculature by fluorescein angiography, we determined the effect of the diet supplement on the photopic negative response (PhNR) whose amplitude is strictly related to RGC integrity and is therefore drastically reduced in concomitance with RGC death. We found that the diet supplementation prevents the reduction of PhNR amplitude (p < 0.001) and concomitantly counteracts RGC death, as in supplemented mice, RGC number assessed immunohistochemically is significantly higher than that in non-supplemented animals (p < 0.01). Major determinants of the protective efficacy of the compound are due to a reduction of ONC-associated cytokine secretion leading to decreased levels of apoptotic markers that in supplemented mice are significantly lower than in non-supplemented animals (p < 0.001), ultimately causing RGC survival and ameliorated visual dysfunction. Overall, our data suggest that the above association of compounds plays a neuroprotective role in this mouse model of glaucoma thus offering a new perspective in inflammation-associated neurodegenerative diseases of the inner retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Locri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via San Zeno, 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy (M.C.)
| | - Maurizio Cammalleri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via San Zeno, 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy (M.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via San Zeno, 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy (M.C.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.M.); (P.B.); Tel.: +39-050-2211426 (M.D.M.)
| | - Dario Rusciano
- Sooft Italia SpA, Contrada Molino 17, 63833 Montegiorgio (FM), Italy;
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via San Zeno, 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy (M.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.D.M.); (P.B.); Tel.: +39-050-2211426 (M.D.M.)
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Zuzic M, Rojo Arias JE, Wohl SG, Busskamp V. Retinal miRNA Functions in Health and Disease. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E377. [PMID: 31108959 DOI: 10.3390/genes10050377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The health and function of our visual system relies on accurate gene expression. While many genetic mutations are associated with visual impairment and blindness, we are just beginning to understand the complex interplay between gene regulation and retinal pathologies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, are important regulators of gene expression that exert their function through post-transcriptional silencing of complementary mRNA targets. According to recent transcriptomic analyses, certain miRNA species are expressed in all retinal cell types, while others are cell type-specific. As miRNAs play important roles in homeostasis, cellular function, and survival of differentiated retinal cell types, their dysregulation is associated with retinal degenerative diseases. Thus, advancing our understanding of the genetic networks modulated by miRNAs is central to harnessing their potential as therapeutic agents to overcome visual impairment. In this review, we summarize the role of distinct miRNAs in specific retinal cell types, the current knowledge on their implication in inherited retinal disorders, and their potential as therapeutic agents.
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